The creative industry is a significant driver of cultural tourism and economic growth in the Mekong countries. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has severely impacted this sector, with heritage sites experiencing a slower recovery, varying across countries with different economic development levels and recovery capacities. This downturn poses a risk to cultural skills and knowledge, as workers seek new opportunities, potentially leading to the loss of traditional heritage and the cultural foundations associated with key monuments. These monuments are vital to the region's unique cultural identity and tourism appeal. Furthermore, while micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) are major economic contributors, the creative sector within them often lacks clear classification and tailored policy support, hindering their competitiveness. Weak intellectual property (IP) protection regimes in many Mekong countries further impede the growth of a thriving creative economy. Recognizing the crucial role of heritage and the challenges faced by the cultural and creative industries, the Mekong Institute is implementing the three-year "Promoting Creative Industry for Heritage Tourism Development in the Mekong Region" (Creative4Mekong) project. This initiative aims to bolster the resilience of the Lower Mekong Countries by strengthening creative industries, supporting cultural heritage conservation, and fostering tourism development for socio-economic recovery through digital platforms. The project focuses on selected World Heritage Sites in Siem Reap (Cambodia), Luang Prabang (Lao PDR), Bagan (Myanmar), Ayutthaya (Thailand), and Hue (Viet Nam), emphasizing multilateral and regional coordination to ensure the sector's sustainable growth. Read more...
