Phuket on the way to becoming a UNESCO World Heritage Site – A historic visit!

Phuket on the way to becoming a UNESCO World Heritage Site – A historic visit!

A lot has happened in Phuket in the last few days. The Senate Foreign Relations Committee has supported Phuket's application as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and that is no small undertaking. With a clear focus on digital technologies and the use of big data to strengthen cultural tourism, the course is being set for the future development of the island. Mgronline reports that the Committee visited Phuket on November 1 and 2, 2025 to examine international cooperation for sustainable development and the island's competitiveness as a leading location within ASEAN.

The concept of “preservation and development” aims to create a balance between economic growth and cultural integrity. Development opportunities were assessed through visits from local authorities and inspection of Phuket's old district. In the long term, the aim is to leverage community identity, traditional lifestyle and historical heritage as economic assets. The committee unanimously agreed that Phuket has great potential. Mgronline describes that this can only be achieved with a participatory and sustainable development strategy.

Cultural tourism and digital technologies

A particular focus is on improving security measures and managing tourist information through digital technologies. The aim is to develop a local workforce that can meet the demands of the high-value tourism industry. It is clear that Phuket's tourism industry, which has always been strong, needs to evolve. A development that should be done carefully to preserve the beauty of the island for future generations.

Furthermore, the committee meeting is not just a local matter. It also has ties with UNESCO, which supports similar initiatives. UNESCO has recognized 1,248 world heritage sites worldwide and promotes international cooperation in education, science and culture. UNESCO proves how important it is to protect and promote cultures.

The path to the world cultural heritage

In order to become a World Heritage Site, exchanges between state authorities, local administrations, the private sector and civil society are also required. The committee gathered valuable policy information through discussions, particularly regarding the preservation of the unique Sino-Portuguese architecture and the management of tourist flows. Mgronline highlights that the discussions and analyzes aim to position Phuket as a model location for creative cultural tourism worldwide.

With all of these developments under its belt, Phuket can look forward to an exciting future. The use of big data, the promotion of cultural heritage and the creation of sustainable tourism provide the necessary tools to achieve the goals and further develop the island as a cultural center. This is not only good for the guests, but also for the people who live and work here.