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25 Jun, 2024

Award-winning images highlight link between ASEAN tourism and sustainability

Bangkok — Ten spectacular photographs capturing the natural and cultural beauty of Thailand and the ASEAN countries have won awards in a competition organised by the Confederation of Thai Journalists (CTJ). Five awards were for the ASEAN countries, and another five for entries from Thailand.

The winners were conferred their awards at a ceremony on 24 June attended by Minister of Tourism and Sports Mr Somsak Pongpanich, Tourism Authority of Thailand Governor Mrs Thapanee Kiatphaibool, CTJ Chairman Mr Chaworong Limpatampani and Mr Thepchai Yong, former Chairman of the Confederation of ASEAN Journalists, along with Presidents of 12 member associations of ASEAN and Chinese media.

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​The CTJ organized the competition under the theme “Embracing Sustainable Tourism Through Your Lens”. In its call for submissions last year, the CTJ explained its rationale for the theme thus:

“Tourism is once again a major driving force for the economy of the ASEAN countries in the aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic. But a revival of tourism has also raised concerns about its impact on the environment. The Confederation of Thai Journalists (CTJ) strongly believes that sustainable tourism is the way for countries in the region to revitalize the tourist industry while at the same also safeguarding the environment. As journalists, we also believe in the power of photography in helping drive home the need for sustainable tourism.”

​Altogether 108 entries were received from seven ASEAN countries. The Judging Committee, comprising both Thai and foreign media, based their selection on the following criteria: Relevance to the contest theme; creativity and impact; composition and technical skills; difficulty in accessing location and subject; and aesthetic appeal.

Guidelines for submission were:

• Photos must have been published either in print media or on online platforms of news outlets during period between March, 2023-March, 2024

• Photos must highlight the charms or uniqueness of a destination or location

• Photos must raise awareness of the need to embrace sustainable tourism.

• Photos must be original, not digitally altered or retouched

• Each submission must include information about its location, the date the photo was taken and when it was published. It must also include a brief caption, explaining how it contributes to sustainable tourism.

Each CAJ member country was entitled to submit up to 10 photographs.

Here are the winners:

ASEAN winners

Thailand winners