Creating jobs with local crafts

       Leather handicrafts in Ban Kung Namwon village, in Ratchaburi province, proves commercial success is not dependent on government handouts.
       The village, famous for its leather goods made under the One Tambon One Product (Otop) brand, has earned a domestic and international reputation for quality craftsmanship and its range of products, which include handbags, wallets, key rings, belts, and mobile phone covers.
       The fact that the products are all handmade is a key selling point.
       "Our concept is we don't let the market dictate what products we should make," said Somkiat Sermpanya, who started in business with his neighbours five years ago.
       The quality handiwork creates products which easily catch the eyes of buyers, he said.
       "They are not run-of-the-mill items," he said.
       The process is also low cost and generates employment. Employees labour at work stations and not on an assembly line.
       "I don't depend on a local development fund," Mr Somkiat said, referring to the state-allocated budget to spur jobs and improve the livelihood of locals.
       "Though some local politicians offered some help with my business in return for votes, I said:'I can stand on my own two feet, thank you very much'," he said.
       Quality is the core differentiator that sets the villages products apart from the competitions.
       The appeal of Ban Kung Namwon products draws visitors, including foreign tourists.
       However, Mr Somkiat said he had to take risks and persevere before his products were recognised by the Otop office.
       During the first year of operations he thought his business would fail as his products were unattractive. But after scouting for local talent,he found people with exceptional leatherworking skills.
       His firm, which started with just a few craftsmen, now employs a host of skilled hands from local families.
       The work earns them a reasonable income and helps give local youths employment opportunities without having to leave home to work, Mr Somkiat said.