World Health Organization South-East Asia (WHO SEARO) has awarded four Thai cities – Bangkok, Sadao, Bansuan, and Klongchaun – for their progress towards becoming WHO Healthy Cities.
Dr Jos Vandelaer, WHO representative to Thailand, said they have shown commitment to improving the health and well-being of their residents, and the impact of their efforts on the lives of individuals in their cities.
“A good quality of life is something we all want. It means living a healthy life, with friends and family, while having access to services we want, breathing clean air, walking in greenery, living a life without stress. That is what I think we all want,” he said.
Dr Jos said achieving a good quality of life requires a lot of work. It means ensuring everyone feels good in all aspects, which requires good governance with city governments showing the way.
“Every ship needs a captain and a crew. Without them, the ship never reaches its destination,” he said.
His remarks were made at the Awarding of the SEAR Healthy City Network on October 30, 2024, at Best Western Plus Wanda Grand Hotel in Nonthaburi. It is the first award given under the SEAR Healthy City Network, which was initiated in 2022 to accredit cities in Asia.