A village weaver said:"I've been working in this factory for years. Many of my family members also work here. We were idle before we came here. But now, we have a stable and pretty good income. It makes us proud that we can live on our own."

Similar stories can be found in other villages.

After education and training, 40-year-old Sawat Saeyang and his wife are now growing daisies for a living. Though he lives in a remote area, his life isn't as isolated from mainstream society as many people imagine. On a trip to his house, visitors see modern items, like a motorcycle and even a satellite dish. He says his life has improved because of the project. And he's happy his 17-year-old son has decided to follow his career path.

The story of Doi Tung has attracted much international attention and is regarded by the UN as one of the world's successful projects. Doi Tung also offers hope to countless rural communities in underdeveloped as well as developing countries around the world, particularly those with similar cultures and geography to Thailand.

Editor:Luyuying