Phuket pact promotes human rights in business

The Phuket Chamber of Commerce has signed an agreement with the National Human Rights Commission of Thailand (NHRC) and Mahidol University to promote responsible business practices and human rights in Phuket.

The memorandum of understanding was signed at the Seabed Grand Phuket Hotel on Thursday, 29 October, by Mahidol University College of Management Dean Assoc Prof Dr Prathana Punnakitikasem, Phuket Chamber of Commerce President Kongsak Koopongsakorn and NHRC adviser Sarutipong Jiradisapong.

The agreement is intended to support knowledge-sharing and help businesses integrate human rights principles into their operations, including labour rights, non-discrimination, workplace safety and the rights of stakeholders.

Vice Governor Romdon Haji-awae presented certificates of completion in business and human rights to representatives of eight business entities at the event. Eight Phuket hotels also formally adopted human rights policies during the 2026 fiscal year: Kata Sea Breeze Resort, The Sis Kata Resort, Siné Phuket Luxury Hotel, The Vijitt Resort Phuket, My Beach Resort Phuket, Kalima Resort & Spa Phuket, Patong Resort and Royal Phuket City Hotel.

The policy adoption followed efforts in 2025 to raise awareness of business and human rights in Phuket. Discussions at the event included practical implementation, with contributions from Charoen Pokphand Group Deputy Director of Sustainability Development Supot Srirattanarat and Andara Resort & Residences Executive Chairperson Nattkanya Saengpho.

A panel involving representatives of the Phuket Chamber of Commerce, the Federation of Thai Industries (Phuket Chapter) and the Young Entrepreneurs Chamber of Commerce examined ways to promote sustainable business practices. The Phuket Chamber of Commerce said it aims to extend the initiative's knowledge and practices to business networks in other Andaman provinces and across Southern Thailand.