Press Release

Amari News

Additional Information about the Royal Project in Doi Angkhang

The Royal Project in Angkhang was set up in 1967, following an initiative by His Majesty King Bhumibol. His Majesty has launched several royal projects throughout Thailand. These have included reforestation projects such as the ones carried out by his Chai Pattana Foundation and the Princess Mother's Mae Fah Luang Foundation. His Majesty sees reforestation and forest conservation as a way to realize another goal, that of the development of water resources.

The Involvement of His Majesty King Bhumibol in the Royal Projects

His Majesty recognises that the well being of the Thai people begins with an abundant supply of water. Life in Thailand is inextricably linked with agriculture and today, water is even more important to its continuance. The Royal Project development programmes take account of all aspects of the local environment - geographical, sociological, psychological and natural.

The Purpose of the Project in Doi Angkhang

The purpose of the project in Doi Angkhang has been to focus on development and conservation, to build the foundations for the long-term development of the Doi Angkhang region. The goal is to encourage the hill tribes to become self-sufficient and at the same time conserve and develop the environment and promote modern farming methods.

The Effect of the Royal Project in Doi Angkhang

For many decades, the hill tribes in this region were dependent on illegal logging and growing opium to make a living. The Royal Angkhang Station Project has focused on developing a variety of marketable produce, which can be grown in the high altitude area of Doi Angkhang. Through giving farmers the opportunity to gain access to modern agricultural techniques and new crops, which can be grown in this area, the quality of the farmers' lives will improve in the long term.

Growing cash crops has provided the hilltribes with a legal source of income and enables the farmers to be self-reliant. The organic methods employed for growing crops have been a great success both economically and in reducing the impact on the natural environment. The non-indigenous crops currently grown include strawberries, persimmon, apricots, peaches, plums, kiwi fruit and many different types of flowers.

This enterprise has had a two-fold effect. Firstly, introducing sustainable and legal cash crops into the area has greatly increased the number of people who can be employed in the agricultural sector. Secondly, it has increased public awareness within Thailand of the Doi Angkhang area and the natural beauty that exists in this region. The opening of the Angkhang Nature Resort in 1997, has established the area as a tourist destination for both local and overseas visitors.

For further information please contact :

Ms. Alex Constantine
Director of Communications
Amari Hotels and Resorts
847 Petchburi Road
Pratunam, Rajthevi
Bangkok 10400
Thailand

Tel.  66 (0) 2255 3767 , 66 (0) 2255 4588
Fax.  66 (0) 2255 3718
E-mail  email@amari.com