“ThaiEconoMap” for Community Economy and Sustainable Well-being 

The Institute of Asian Studies at Chulalongkorn University, together with the Thai Health Promotion Foundation (ThaiHealth), recently organized the official launch event for the “Community Economy Map (ThaiEconoMap)” along with a live demonstration of the platform on March 27, 2026, at Meeting Room 201, 2nd Floor, ThaiHealth Center. The event was attended by representatives from government agencies, academia, civil society, and partner networks from various regions. 

The event aimed to showcase research and innovation behind a digital platform designed to strengthen the “grassroots economy alongside community well-being” through data integration, local participation, and the creation of a fair economic ecosystem. Its key goals are to reduce inequality, expand economic opportunities, and sustainably empower communities. Ms. Khempet Lenapun, a representative from ThaiHealth, delivered the welcome remarks, while Dr. Dollaya Tiantong, Deputy Director of the Institute of Asian Studies at Chulalongkorn University, explained the background and significance of the project, emphasizing the development of “digital infrastructure” that communities can collectively own and manage.

The event also featured a keynote lecture titled “The Power of Community Data: A Tool for Building a Solidarity Economy and Sustainable Well-being” by Dr. Sampan Silapanad, an expert from ThaiHealth. He highlighted the role of data as a “new resource” that can effectively drive community economic development when managed transparently and fairly. 

In addition, the research team from the Institute of Asian Studies presented the concept and objectives of the ThaiEconoMap platform, explaining its user-centered design that meets community needs. These include visualizing local economic data, connecting small entrepreneurs, creating local employment opportunities, facilitating communication, and fostering mutual support within communities. 

A panel discussion with representatives from partner communities shared practical perspectives on implementing the platform, including its benefits, expectations, and challenges. ThaiEconoMap is seen as a key tool to expand economic opportunities for small entrepreneurs, enhance data transparency, and support policy decision-making at the local level. The session was moderated by Mr. Akkanut Wantanasombut, a researcher from the Institute of Asian Studies at Chulalongkorn University. 

“ThaiEconoMap builds upon knowledge in Social and Solidarity Economy (SSE) and the concept of Digital Commons to create a shared digital space where everyone in the community can participate—as producers, consumers, and co-designers of development directions. The platform is not just an economic tool, but also a key mechanism for strengthening relationships, trust, and well-being within communities,” Mr. Akkanut said. 

Another highlight of the event was a live demonstration by the development team (ISSIE Tech and SESSC), showcasing key features such as mapping community businesses, connecting labor with job opportunities, sharing local announcements, and enabling resource sharing. The platform is designed to be user-friendly, accessible, and suitable for all levels of users. 

The ThaiEconoMap project was initiated in response to challenges posed by current digital platforms, which are often controlled by the private sector. This can lead to benefits flowing out of communities, lack of transparency, and limited community governance. As a result, ThaiEconoMap was developed as a platform “co-owned by the community,” serving as a tool to build a fair and sustainable economy. 

The expected outcomes of the project span policy, community, and individual levels. At the policy level, it aims to serve as a model for public platform development that drives a fair economy. At the community level, it enhances the ability to manage data and resources effectively. At the individual level, it increases economic opportunities, generates income, and improves overall quality of life. 

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