Bangkok has joined other cities around the world to brainstorm creative ideas for boosting quality of life in the Thai capital.

The brainstorming session took place on Friday at the Bangkok Creative City Dialogue, a cooperation among Unesco’s creative cities in Asia and Europe.

Deputy Bangkok governor Sanon Wangsrangboon joined the dialogue, which saw representatives of Unesco creative cities explore future collaborative projects, formulate development plans to improve people’s quality of life, attract investment and promote tourism.

Cooperation forged during the dialogue is expected to serve as a crucial tool in sustainable development of cities in the economic, social, cultural, and environmental spheres.

Sanon told the gathering that Bangkok needs to harness the brainpower of creative citizens, which is a challenge under existing rules and regulations. He highlighted the importance of the city working together with the Creative Economy Agency, which has promoted out-of-the-box thinking to make Bangkok a truly liveable city.

“Bangkok is now liveable, but not for everyone,” he said.

“We have good eateries and high-end residences throughout the city, but there are still poor communities, neighbourhoods suffering from floods after heavy rains and lack of comprehensive public transport.

“These are the challenges faced by Bangkok that require cooperation, manpower, and upgrades in both hardware and software,” he added.

Bangkok’s creative strength was being highlighted in a project to promote the unique characteristics of each of its 50 districts using outstanding products and activities, Sanon said. The project has strengthened the “Bangkok Brand”, making it more tangible and distinguishable, he added.

The Thai capital was awarded membership in Unesco’s Creative Cities Network (UCCN) in the “City of Design” category in 2019. Thailand’s Creative Economy Agency organised the Bangkok Creative City Dialogue to fulfil the country’s obligations as a UCCN member.

Nine cities in seven countries joined the event.

Six joined as cities of design, namely Bangkok, Asahikawa (Japan), Bandung (Indonesia), Nagoya (Japan), Seoul (South Korea), and Singapore.

Two joined as cities of food – Kuching (Malaysia) and Phetchaburi (Thailand) – while Perth (United Kingdom) participated as a city of crafts and folk art.