Thailand Reviews Progress of Sustainable Community Development Project in Pakistan’s Jab Village
HARIPUR, November 6, 2026 — Ambassador of Thailand to Pakistan, H.E. Mr. Rongvudhi Virabutr, visited Jab Village in Haripur District, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, to review progress under Thailand’s Sufficiency Economy Philosophy (SEP)-based Sustainable Model Community Development Project.The Ambassador was accompanied by officials of the Royal Thai Embassy in Islamabad and Ms. Jennifer Innes-Taylor, founder of Udon Organic Farm. The visit aimed to assess the community’s achievements following knowledge-sharing and training initiatives provided by Thailand.
During the visit, the delegation observed significant progress in community development, sustainable agriculture and livelihood improvement. Residents have demonstrated greater unity, cooperation and self-reliance, taking initiatives to improve their living conditions rather than depending solely on government assistance. They have also begun sharing their knowledge with neighbouring communities.In agriculture, local residents have adopted various sustainable practices, including household vegetable gardening, greenhouse cultivation, olive grafting, beekeeping and livestock farming. These initiatives are helping strengthen household food security while creating opportunities for additional income.The community has also started adding value to local agricultural products through small-scale food processing, including pickled olives and popcorn production.
The visiting expert shared further guidance on product development, food preservation and food safety standards.Looking ahead, the community plans to expand activities in livestock farming, mushroom cultivation, vermicomposting and tree planting. Proposals to establish a community development organisation and a revolving savings fund were also discussed to strengthen local management and ensure long-term financial sustainability.The progress in Jab Village highlights the positive impact of Thailand’s Sufficiency Economy Philosophy in promoting sustainable livelihoods, agricultural development and community-led initiatives in Pakistan.Thailand reaffirmed its commitment to sharing knowledge and practical experience in sustainable community development, with the aim of strengthening self-reliance, improving living standards and building resilient communities across Pakistan.
