CP Foods wins National Innovation Awards 2021 for Innovative Organizations

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8 October 2021, 15:27

National Innovation Agency under The Ministry of Science and Technology, granted National Innovation Awards 2021 in the category of Innovative Organizations to Charoen Pokphand Foods Public Company Limited (CP Foods) for the company’s outstanding achievement in integrating innovations to improve operational efficiency and business competitiveness, leading to better foods for consumers worldwide.

The prestigious award was received Pairoj Apiruknusit, Executive Vice President for aquaculture business, and Peerapong Krinchai, Executive Vice President for Engineering.

Mr. Pairoj said that CP Foods, as a leading food producer with “Kitchen of the World” vision, strives to build food security. In order to do so, the company has spawned countless of inventions to create efficient and sustainable business from farm to fork as well as to accomplish the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

He added that CP Foods has integrated innovations and good animal welfare practices into its farming business to ensure that all animals are raised healthy in line with international standards. For example, Technologies like Evaporative Cooling System has been implemented to control environment within livestock farms. This is not only protecting animals from diseases, but also help them to live comfortably and happily.

In egg business, the company has developed Biosecurity High Tech Farming that can effectively prevent outbreak in its cage free and free range farms.

Aside its own farms, CP Foods has transfers the technologies to other farmers in an effort to improve the quality of Thai foods.

In aquaculture, CP Foods’ shrimp breeding program has produce one of the fastest growing shrimps in the world. The company also co-developed sustainable farming practice, 3-Clean technique, that help Thai shrimp growers to tackle Early Mortality Syndrome (EMS), which severely damaged Thai shrimp industry in early 2010’s.

Under the 2030 Sustainability in Action strategy, the company aims to increase the proportion of healthy food innovations from 35% to 50% by 2030. CP Foods’ RD center has joined forces with various sectors to create healthy and innovative products like The World’s First “Brown Rice Fed Chicken, Benja Chicken. The premium product is certified by NSF

that guaranteed Benja Chicken is raised without Antibiotics and no Hormones Added ,making the products Chemical-Free, tasted, safe and 100% natural. The premium chicken has won Top Innovative Product from THAIFEX – World of Food Asia 2019.

For pork product, the company has invented Cheeva pork, the World’s First Omega 3 Pork fed with super foods such as flex feed, seaweed and deep-sea fish. The product won THAIFEX taste Innovation Show Winners from THAIFEX-Anuga Asia 2020.

CP Foods also developed probiotics in animal feed production to help strengthen the immune system for animals to be healthy naturally.

Aside livestock products, the company launched plant-based products under the brand called Meat Zero, made from 100% plants, which is Cooperation with world-class plant-based companies from countries such as Japan, the United States and Singapore, as well as Thai educational institutions such as Chulalongkorn University and Mae Fah Luang University. The meat is made from plants and manufactured to feel, taste, and appear like real meat thanks to “PLANT-TEC” innovation.

To cultivate innovation in workplace, the company has developed employees to be innovators according to the TRIZ approach and the ISO 56002 standard, which is an internationally recognized innovation management standard.. At present, the company has over 1,000 innovators throughout the organization.

Due to its determination to drive the development of corporate innovation management, CP Foods was the first organization in Thailand to be certified ISO 56002 from the ISO Certification Institute.

The National Innovation Award aims at selecting organizations that create outstanding innovations for sustainable growth under the framework of Innovative Organization Model (IOM) in 8 dimensions, namely Innovation Strategy, Business Focus, People, Organizational Knowledge, Culture, Resource, Process, and Result.

Marriott Bonvoy Unveils Second Annual “Week of Wonders,” Featuring Awe-Inspiring Travel Offers Exclusively for Members, Oct. 7-14

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Contributor

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8 October 2021, 15:21

Limited-Time Deals & The Chance to Access Extraordinary Experiences in Incredible Destinations Inspire Members to Rediscover the Wonder of Travel

Bangkok, Thailand – October 8, 2021 – Marriott Bonvoy – Marriott International’s award-winning travel program – is reigniting wanderlust by introducing its second annual members’ week, Week of Wonders, featuring exceptional travel offers available exclusively for Marriott Bonvoy members.

From October 7 to October 14, members will have access to a variety of Wonders centered on themes including escape, delight, adventure, comfort, luxury, discovery and more. These offers will be available across Marriott Bonvoy’s extensive portfolio of extraordinary brands in Asia Pacific. Members can participate in multiple offers, providing more opportunities for them to take advantage of everything in the Marriott Bonvoy travel program – whether that’s hotel stays, bonus points, redemption offer, or member’ discount. The promotions are available to all members – even those who enroll during the window of the promotion.

As well as giving members the chance to accelerate the number of points they can earn, Week of Wonders provides them with the chance to truly reward themselves. Members can take advantage of exclusive deals on stays at luxury hotel properties and also enjoy retail opportunities with Marriott Bonvoy’s online store, Marriott Bonvoy Boutiques.

“We’re excited to show appreciation for our loyal members through Week of Wonders, allowing travelers to reignite their spirit of discovery and unlock the power of travel with Marriott Bonvoy,” said David Flueck, Senior Vice President, Marriott Bonvoy. “With these rich offers, members have more reasons to plan and book their long-awaited dream vacation, cross off bucket-list items with terrific experiences, or reward themselves with some much-needed luxury.”

Offers available all week long include:

Wonders of Escape: Escape With 25% Off at participating hotels across Asia Pacific (excluding Greater China)

Members can explore through Marriott Bonvoy’s expansive portfolio of hotels with 25% off at participating hotels across Asia Pacific (excluding Greater China).

Wonders of Delight: Earn 2,000 Bonus Points as a Marriott Bonvoy® Credit Card Holder

Marriott Bonvoy Credit Card holders can register from October 7 through October 14, 2021 and earn 2,000 points after booking and completing an eligible stay at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy by November 21, 2021. The stay must include one paid night. Terms apply.

Wonders of Discovery: Re-ignite the Spirit of Discovery When You Redeem Points for Free Stays For Up To 33% Less

Travelers eager to discover new places, cultures, and people near and far can book their next hotel redemption stay for up to 33% fewer points during Week of Wonders.

Wonders of More: Fast-Track Travel Plans with Bonuses on Points Purchases

During Week of Wonders, members will receive a 50% bonus and Elite members a 55% bonus on purchases of 2,000 or more points – making it easier and quicker for them to get to that next dream vacation.

Wonders of Luxury: Indulge in Spa, Golf, Dining and More at Some of the Most Iconic Marriott International Hotels Around the World

Members seeking to elevate their travel experiences can do so in style by booking the Week of Wonders Escape to Luxury offer. As part of this offer, guests booking a 2+ night stay will receive up to $300 in folio credit to be used on a variety of amenities during their stay at some of the most magnificent luxury hotels within the EDITION, St. Regis Hotels & Resorts and The Ritz-Carlton portfolios.

Wonders of Comfort: Bring Home Your Favorite Hotel Comforts

Members can enjoy 20% off when they shop at Marriott Bonvoy’s online store Marriott Bonvoy Boutiques, making every day feel like a vacation. From the iconic Westin Heavenly® Bed, to the EDITION signature scent, to sumptuous bathrobes from The Ritz-Carlton, travelers can experience the joy of good travel from the comfort of their homes.

Wonders of Adventure: Step away from the everyday and embrace all Marriott Bonvoy’s hotels have to offer with the current global promotion

Members seeking adventure can earn 1,500 bonus points on each stay now through December 21, 2021 when they register here for the global promotion, which will continue to run during Week of Wonders.

To explore all the special offers during Week of Wonders and to view the full set of terms and conditions, please visit: http://marriottbonvoy.com/weekofwondersap.

For more information about Marriott Bonvoy or to enroll as a member for free, visit here. Join the conversation @MarriottBonvoy.

Thailand To Be Taken Off UK Coronavirus Red List

By

Khaosod English

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8 October 2021, 12:50

242065050_208052674648726_8272996887683315701_n — An undated file photo of tourists boarding a ferry for Koh Phangan.

BANGKOK — The British government said it will remove Thailand from its “Red List” on Monday, meaning that travelers will no longer be required to undergo expensive hotel quarantines upon their arrival in England.

Earlier this week, the UK ditched its advice against non-essential travel for 32 countries, but left Thailand and others on the Red List. Now, that list will be reduced to just 7 countries from Monday onward, with Thailand and 46 others coming off the restrictions.

“Thailand is on the red list for entering England. From 4am on Monday 11 October, Thailand will no longer be on the red list for entering England,” the UK government’s foreign travel advice website said.

Bhumjaithai MP Suphachai Jaismut welcomed the news and attributed the change in policy to Thailand’s success in battling the coronavirus pandemic.

“Britain’s stance reflects the success from our work and dedication in containing the pandemic in Thailand,” Suphachai, whose party is led by Public Health Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, wrote on his Facebook. “And a clear proof of the Public Health Ministry’s ability.”

Officials have sought to convince the UK to take Thailand off the Red List for months, since the restrictions were believed to deter many potential travelers from visiting Thailand through the Phuket Sandbox program.

The UK has also missed 2 summers of tourism, due to travel restrictions imposed by the British government that made it difficult for people to travel overseas or for international tourists to visit. Airlines have lashed out at the tough rules, in particular the frequency with which they are altered.

After the change comes into effect on Monday, there will only be seven countries — Colombia, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Haiti, Panama, Peru and Venezuela — on the Red List, which requires all passengers to enter hotel quarantine for 11 nights at a cost of 2,285 GBP for individual travelers.

The changes mean that anyone arriving from the 47 countries removed from the red list will be spared that requirement.

However, they will still need to take a series of coronavirus tests before and after their arrival, and go into self-isolation for ten days unless the British government recognizes a country’s vaccination status certificates and the vaccines used.

The list of recognized vaccines include AstraZeneca, Pfizer, Moderna and Johnson & Johnson, as well as their formulations such as AstraZeneca Covishield. Vaccines made by China’s Sinovac and Sinopharm, which have been administered to millions of Thais, are not recognized by the British government at this time.

CIA Creates Working Group on China as Threats Keep Rising

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Associated Press

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8 October 2021, 11:00

408271 — This April 13, 2016, file photo shows the seal of the Central Intelligence Agency at CIA headquarters in Langley, Va. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster, File)

WASHINGTON (AP) — The CIA said Thursday it will create a top-level working group on China as part of a broad U.S. government effort focused on countering Beijing’s influence.

The group will become one of fewer than a dozen mission centers operated by the CIA, with weekly director-level meetings intended to drive the agency’s strategy toward China. The CIA also announced that it would ramp up efforts to recruit Chinese speakers and create another mission center focusing on emerging technologies and global issues such as climate change and global health.

President Joe Biden’s administration has called out what it sees as Chinese aggression on a range of security and economic issues while also seeking common ground on issues like climate change and a nuclear-armed North Korea. Top administration officials have repeatedly signaled a shift of resources toward “great power” competition with China while maintaining a focus on counterterrorism.

China is an especially difficult challenge for the U.S. intelligence community given the insularity of its Communist Party leadership, its large military and security services and its development in advanced technologies that can counter spying. In a statement Thursday, CIA Director William Burns called the Chinese government “the most important geopolitical threat we face in the 21st century.”

“Throughout our history, CIA has stepped up to meet whatever challenges come our way,” Burns said. “And now facing our toughest geopolitical test in a new era of great power rivalry, CIA will be at the forefront of this effort.”

As part of an agency reorganization, the CIA will fold mission centers on Iran and North Korea into existing groups covering each country’s respective region. Both country-specific mission centers were created during President Donald Trump’s administration.

The CIA will also try to address the delays in recruiting through the often onerous process of completing background checks and security clearances, with a goal of reducing processing times to an average of six months.

And it will designate a chief technology officer for the first time as part of a broader effort to implement advanced computing methods.

Washington has publicly accused Beijing of failing to cooperate with efforts to understand the origins of COVID-19 and abetting criminal hackers targeting critical U.S. infrastructure. China has in response accused the U.S. of wrongly scapegoating Beijing and pointed to previous U.S. intelligence failures as well as the collapse of the American-backed government in Afghanistan.

But both countries are also the two world’s largest economies and pre-eminent military and political powers. The relationship has been strained by China flying military planes near the self-governed island of Taiwan, which has long had U.S. support and which Beijing considers part of its territory. A U.S. official said Wednesday that Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping are expected to hold a virtual meeting by the end of this year.

The U.S. shift toward “great power” competition comes after the fall of Kabul to the Taliban as the American military was completing its withdrawal from Afghanistan. The withdrawal resulted in the loss of key intelligence resources in Afghanistan.

Intelligence officials have assessed that al-Qaida remains closely linked to the Taliban and could regain the capability to strike the U.S. within as little as one to two years.

Sen. Mark Warner, D-Va., chair of the Senate Intelligence Committee, said in a statement that he looked forward to working with the CIA “to ensure that organizational changes meet the challenges we are facing.”

“The strategic threat environment has been changing, and the intelligence community needs to adapt to meet that new environment,” Warner said.

Sen. Marco Rubio, R-Fla., the committee’s top Republican, welcomed the announcement of the new China group.

“The threat posed by the Chinese Communist Party is real and growing,” Rubio said in a statement. “Every part of our government needs to reflect this great power competition in message, structure, and action.”

Democratic Rep. Adam Schiff, the chairman of the House Intelligence Committee, said he had urged the CIA for years to “reorient its priorities and resources” toward global competitors like China. He praised the creation of the China group as a positive step.

“With an autocratic model it is aggressively seeking to export and a rapidly advancing technological capacity, China represents a substantial challenge to the United States and the future of democratic values,” Schiff said in a statement.

Siam Piwat further takes Thailand on to the world stage, joining hands with Pavilion Group, Malaysia’s retail giant, to introduce creative Thainess at Pavilion Bukit Jalil

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Contributor

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8 October 2021, 09:23

A milestone in the history of Asia’s retail industry is reached as two retail giants join hands as business partners.
The historic partnership reinforces Siam Piwat’s vision to launch Thailand further onto the world stage and take Thai entrepreneurs to showcase creative crafts and products while expanding to other international platforms.

ICONCRAFT, Absolute Siam and Ecotopia, three Thai brands popular among foreigners, will establish their first overseas presence.

Bangkok (7 October 2021) – Siam Piwat Co., Ltd., the owner and operator of prestigious world–renowned retail developments, such as Siam Paragon, Siam Center, Siam Discovery, and a joint venture partner of ICONSIAM and Siam Premium Outlets, is launching Thailand further onto the world stage and bolstering confidence among partners as well as all sectors involved by announcing its partnership with Pavilion Group, a leading developer, investor, and operator of shopping centers in Malaysia. In this collaboration, Siam Piwat will debut its own curated Thai brands to showcase the height of creative Thainess at Pavilion Bukit Jalil, which is set to become the largest fully integrated regional lifestyle mall in the Southern Corridor of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, as part of its plan to expand to various platforms globally. Siam Piwat further takes Thailand on to the world stage 7

Ms. Usara Yongpiyakul, Chief Executive Officer – Retail Business Group, Siam Piwat Co., Ltd. remarked on this collaboration: “One of Siam Piwat’s primary policies is to build awareness of Thai brands on the global stage as well as to transform ‘local heroes’ into ‘global heroes’ and expand their business internationally as COVID–19 has hindered travel to Thailand. Therefore, this collaboration will not only open up additional sales channels for SMEs to help them expand beyond online or e–commerce platforms but will also help drive the Thai economy. As part of this expansion, we have joined hands with a strong partner like Pavilion Group, a veteran large–mall operator and developer. We have selected Pavilion Bukit Jalil to debut our first brick–and–mortar stores in Malaysia for three carefully selected Thai brands in a way that will captivate and resonate with both Malaysian and international visitors. Pavilion Group is one of Siam Piwat’s Global Privilege Partners, and we have been collaborating to offer exclusive privileges to our customers. This new partnership to introduce Thai products to an overseas market will make Siam Piwat’s another significant stride towards building a solid network with powerful business leaders.

For more than 10 years that Siam Piwat has been working in collaboration with many government agencies, such as the SUPPORT Arts and Crafts International Center of Thailand (SACICT) and the Creative Economy Agency (CEA), to incubate entrepreneurs, we enhance their products by partnering them with experts and offering assistance with product design and packaging design. We also teach them how to use data management systems to manage their business, create an e-platform, and raise sponsorship. Moreover, we share knowledge with them on managing their finance, finding new sales channels, and gaining publicity. All of these initiatives have not only enhanced their ability to generate income but also empowered them, filling them with a sense of pride and giving them more exposure and international business opportunities.”

Siam Piwat’s three Thai brands, namely Ecotopia, ICONCRAFT, and Absolute Siam, are massively popular among foreign tourists thanks to the unique identity and creativity of their products. Developed by Siam Piwat, Ecotopia, ICONCRAFT, and Absolute Siam seek to showcase the height of Thai craftsmanship ranging from innovative, contemporary crafts to products by Thai craftsmen, SMEs across the country, designers ,and the ingenuity of young eco co– creators. The products under these three brands all deliver the experience of creative Thainess and distinct appeal to international shoppers.

Ecotopia: Ecotopia is an eco–conscious community of like–minded people who believe in ‘Together, We Co–Create a Better World’. that is approachable and practical for all walks of life.It reflects Siam Piwat’s Co–Creation’ business model to create shared value, which is the company core vision of all of its retail developments. Together with 12 eco–creators, Ecotopia presents a new and amicable eco–centric experience.

ICONCRAFT: Siam Piwat launched ICONCRAFT as a hub of inspiration to showcase the height of Thai craftsmanship first domestically then to the world. ICONCRAFT celebrates local wisdom in a new perspective while presenting it through Thai craftworks. Above all, ICONCRAFT is the opened door for over 800 craftsmen, designers, and local communities across Thailand, forging paths for them towards modern trade. Efforts include educating, create branding, marketing, and providing financial advices in order to be the retail ecosystem that truly creates sustainable success and gives mutual benefits for all involved. The product categories are wide and interesting, namely jewelry, souvenirs, home decors, unique art and craft, lifestyle and everyday artifacts, scents and aroma, and food and snacks. Siam Piwat further takes Thailand on to the world stage 4

Absolute Siam: A trendsetting multi–brands concept store that features a mix of leading fashion and lifestyle brands under one roof. Many first ever and distinctive collaborations by leading and upcoming Thai designers producing exclusive collections. A space that houses over 60 fashion, art, tech, and lifestyle brands, offerings one–of–kind innovative and bold products and set new trends and services in Absolute Siam’s style.

“Thailand has just as rich and unique a culture as any other country. This uniqueness and richness is shaped by extraordinary creativity and conveyed through a wide range of exquisite artworks and design products that have proven to appeal to people across the globe. We recognize the value and delicate magnificence of Thai culture and the creativity of Thai artisans, designers, and creators. We are proud to have Siam Piwat’s presence exclusively in Pavilion Bukit Jalil as they continue to expand abroad. These new stores will provide Malaysians and international visitors the chance to experience a hint of Thai culture without leaving KL,” said Dato’ Joyce Yap, Chief Executive Officer of Retail for Kuala Lumpur Pavilion Sdn Bhd, the Retail Planner of Pavilion Bukit Jalil

“Malaysia and Thailand have very close ties and share not only borders but also various cultural similarities. We believe that this collaboration is just the beginning and will lead to even greater things, such as joint efforts to boost the region’s economy and initiatives to showcase and nurture the uniqueness and magnificence of ASEAN nations,” concluded Usara.

Siam Piwat has continued to launch Thailand further onto the world stage and support SMEs by curating a selection of products across various categories that have proven popular among foreigners from its affiliated stores and joining forces with various retail partners overseas to have them featured on high–potential international platforms for sale both online and offline in Asian countries with high purchasing power and economic growth rates, such as China, Malaysia, Vietnam, among others.

Samitivej Is a Virtual Hospital Pioneer, Giving Patients 24-Hour Access to Online Teleconsultations With Our 642 Doctors #Anywhereanytime and Reemphasizing Our Commitment To Being a Hospital of Innovation.

By

Contributor

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8 October 2021, 06:00

Chairat Panthuraamphorn, M.D., Managing Director and CEO of Samitivej and BNH Hospitals, remarked that, “Samitivej has a vision to innovate continuously in order to respond to the ever-changing situation in the present, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic whereby people are fearful of visiting the hospital but still require seeing their doctors. This has led to the Samitivej Virtual Hospital taking on greater prominence. As such, we have developed its functions and capabilities to reflect those changes.”

Samitivej Virtual Hospital offers a comprehensive range of services, including 24-hour access to consult doctors online in real-time. This enables patients to seek advice from our roster of 642 doctors representing 51 fields of specialty. In this way, patients can consult our doctors regarding general health concerns, such as a headache, fever or asthma, as well as more specialized issues, such as dermatological concerns, gastrointestinal issues, psychological problems, office syndrome, or pediatric concerns. Our patients are now also able to make insurance claims for these services as we have agreements in place with 13 leading insurance providers. Moreover, we offer Test@Home services for home blood testing, and medicine delivery through the Samitivej Virtual Hospital’s partnership with Save Drug, a pharmacy and health products store operating within the BDMS group. Because Save Drug has branches throughout Thailand, rapid delivery times can be achieved to ensure the utmost convenience to our patients.

You can quickly and conveniently access our services #AnywhereAnytime through the following channels:

Samitivej Plus Application, which is the main channel
LINE @Samitivej
Samitivej website at https://www.samitivejhospitals.com.

Chairat Panthuraamphorn, M.D., added that, “The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a massive growth in the number of patients, with Samitivej Virtual Hospital statistics showing a 221% increase between August 2020 and August 2021. The most common health concerns brought up in teleconsultations were dermatological, gastrointestinal, and pediatric concerns. However, there has also been a significant upturn in the number of consultations being sought in regard to both adult and childhood mental health, as a result of the transformation of lifestyle habits brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic. Up to 95% of patients have stated their willingness to tell others about this service, showing how telemedicine technologies are set to continue growing in response to the evolving needs of our patients. Samitivej is therefore committed to future developments that will place us at the forefront of this evolution through the adoption of the latest innovations and technologies that will help create value for society and our community and reflect our focus on being an agile organization of value and our vision that ‘we do not want anyone to get sick.’”

Samitivej Virtual Hospital was launched in March 2019 and has since undergone constant development. We provide a comprehensive range of healthcare services capable of improving the lives of our patients with utmost speed and convenience. This focus on innovation has seen Samitivej Virtual Hospital recognized at home and abroad, recently receiving the following 4 awards:

Prime Minister’s Export Award 2021: Best Service Enterprise Award (Health & Wellness) for outstanding healthcare services offered through Samitivej Virtual Hospital, Samitivej Plus App and Precision Medicine.
Product Innovation Awards 2021: For outstanding Samitivej Virtual Hospital healthcare services.
GlobalHealth Asia – Pacific Awards 2021: Smart Hospital of the Year in the Asia-Pacific region.
Thailand Digital Excellence Awards 2020: Thai Digital Champion for Business Innovation.

For more information please contact 0-2022-2222

About Samitivej Hospitals

Samitivej Hospitals started operation on June 4, 1979. Our hospitals are among the 48 members of Bangkok Dusit Medical Services Public Company Limited, which operates leading hospitals in Thailand and South East Asia. We offer healthcare services certified to meet both local standards and standards set forth by Joint Commission International (JCI) from America. There are currently eight member hospitals—Samitivej Sukhumvit Hospital, Samitivej Japanese Hospital, Samitivej Srinakarin Hospital, Samitivej Children’s Hospital, Samitivej Chinatown Hospital, Samitivej Thonburi Hospital, Samitivej Sriracha Hospital, and Samitivej Chonburi Hospital.

For more information, please contact Sasikan Lertsittichai, Brand Communication Manager at [email protected] or Tel 020-222-443.

UNLEASH YOUR CURIOSITY: W HOTELS COLLABORATES WITH LUXE CITY GUIDES TO UNCOVER THE HOTTEST HANGOUTS, MUST EATS AND MUST DO LISTS ACROSS ASIA PACIFIC

By

Contributor

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7 October 2021, 14:27

Exclusive Travel Guides Offer Insider Intel On What’s New/Next In Design, Music, Fashion And Wellness In Nine W Hotels Destinations

W Hotels LUXE City Guide: UNLEASH YOUR CURIOSITY

Hong Kong – October 7, 2021 There are no strangers when you travel, only friends you haven’t met yet. W Hotels Worldwide, part of Marriott International, today announced an exciting collaboration with LUXE City Guides – to curate a series of print and digital travel guides packed with insider information for W Hotels guests in nine W Hotels destinations including Bali, Bangkok, Hong Kong, Melbourne, Osaka, Shanghai, Singapore, Suzhou and Xi’an. The look of the W Hotels LUXE City Guide is influenced by Spring/Summer 2022 trends, with fabulous, eye-catching colours and layouts brimming with the know-how of a savvy local pal.

“The W brand’s mission has always been to fuel our guests’ lust for life by providing them with access to the latest trends and immersive experiences unique to each city, and the W Hotels LUXE City Guide is the latest example of what we do,” said Jennie Toh, Vice President Brand Marketing and Management, Marriott International Asia Pacific. “As everyone gets ready to jetset once again, the guide will be the perfect resource for new/next discoveries for those waiting to rediscover the joy of travel.”

The W Hotel LUXE City Guide provides a plethora of quick, to-the-point travel tips in a 24-hour timeline format, including where to go, what to see and which eateries are not to be missed in each destination. The guide taps into the W brand’s DNA by inspiring guests to connect with each city and culture through the approaches of great music, design, fashion and FUEL – the brand’s unique take on wellness. By directing visitors to the best spots for interesting art, delectable eats and local fun, the guide empowers guests to make the most out of every trip.

Discovering Xi’an’s Other Underground Scene

The bold and bright W Xi’an tantalizes with step-out balconies offering fantastic panoramas of the historic city, welcoming guests with inspired culinary offerings at its three dining spots, as well as bespoke cocktail selections at its signature WOOBAR. The LUXE guide’s advice for 24 hours in Xi’an starts with grabbing street snacks for breakfast and a scenic bike ride around the city walls, whizzing past Xi’an old and new. A Shaanxi cuisine lunch is recommended behind the local market in a casual alfresco courtyard, while the evening is dedicated to cocktails and beers in underground-style speakeasies and local taprooms, or a refreshing soak and scrub at a classic local bathhouse.

Detox And Retox In Osaka

W Osaka blends Japan’s cultural heritage with bold contemporary designs in an atmosphere of playful chic and seamless luxury, immersing guests in extraordinary social and culinary experiences. A day in Osaka can begin with an onsen hot spring experience in the morning, followed by a visit to a local indie art gallery and people-watching at Orange Street, lined with boutiques and cafés. Night owls can sample chicken sashimi at Osaka’s only Michelin-starred yakitori joint, or party the night away at the city’s clubs and nightspots which are open till 5:00 AM.

On The Go In Melbourne

Holding the back-lane entrance keys to what’s new/next in the city CBD and taking its design cues from the streets of Australia’s cultural capital, W Melbourne is a playground where the early risers to the late-night revellers can mingle. In Melbourne, guests are encouraged to take a bicycle trek into the Australian outback, cycling along the Yarra River before refueling at an Edwardian-era boathouse showcasing contemporary Australian cuisine. Guests can make a quick stop for a refreshing dip in the pool back at W Melbourne before setting off again to sample the city’s fantastic bars, eateries and nightlife in the evening.

“LUXE City Guides are a trusted source for ultra-researched travel and lifestyle information curated by expert teams of locals,” said Simon Westcott, CEO and Owner of LUXE City Guides. “The super-charged energy of W Hotels celebrates its guests’ endless appetites to discover what’s new/next in design, music, fashion and wellness. With the theme of UNLEASH YOUR CURIOSITY, the W Hotels LUXE City Guide sets the scene for next-level travel knowledge, providing valuable destination-insider info through the vibrant lens of W.”

Throughout October, pop-up events celebrating the launch of the W Hotels LUXE City Guide will take place in W Hotels across Singapore, Suzhou and Xi’an. The pop-ups will showcase the nine destinations in the guide and feature scrumptious bites and sips that are virtual passports to the fun, charm and magic of each city.

The W Hotels LUXE City Guide is available in English, Japanese, Traditional Chinese and Simplified Chinese. For more information, guests can connect with the W Insider at any W hotel for a copy of the guide, or access the destination content available at https://www.whotels-asiapacific.com/luxecityguides. Guests are invited to join the conversation on Instagram @whotels @luxecityguides and hashtag #UnleashYourCuriosity #WLuxeCityGuides.

Celebrate the Annual Auspicious in ‘ICONSIAM Iconic Vegetarian Festival’ With Thailand’s Legendary Menus and Pray to Goddess Guan Yin from 5 – 14 October 2021

By

Contributor

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7 October 2021, 14:05

ICONSIAM is set to celebrate the proud heritage of the annual Vegetarian festival in ‘ICONSIAM Iconic Vegetarian Festival’, assembling a premium list of Thailand’s renowned vegan food vendors and restaurants that not only serve some of the most delicious Vegetarian menus but contribute to making merits while promoting healthy lifestyles. In addition, visitors can find signature Vegetarian menus curated for SOOKSIAM at ‘The Feast of Merit and Vegetarian Food’ as well as paying respect to the goddess Guan Yin, courtesy of Wat Thiphaya Waree Wihan, which symbolizes prosperity throughout the festival, from 5 – 14 October 2021. This event at ICONSIAM complies with the standard health and safety measures for the wellbeing of the public.

ICONSIAM’s Managing Director Mr.Supoj Chaiwatsirikul stated, “The Vegetarian festival is a long-preserved tradition of the Chinese culture with a rich history of more than 400 years and is a highly revered tradition celebrated by the Thai-Chinese communities in Thailand. And it is an even greater pleasure to see the new generation and the health-conscious groups embrace the tradition of consuming animal-free products and food for their wellbeing and for merit making.”

This year, ICONSIAM has partnered with various local vendors and restaurants to deliver a variety of savory menus and dessert, featuring over 400 menus in total to choose from. Simultaneously, visitors are welcomed to pay respect to the goddess Guan Yin, which is respectfully summoned from Wat Thiphaya Waree Wihan for this auspicious occasion at SOOKSIAM, G Fl., ICONSIAM from 5 – 14 October 2021.

Feast in the festivities of ‘ICONSIAM Iconic Vegetarian Festival’

Visitors can expect an outstanding lineup of remarkable vegan menus that ICONSIAM has prepared for the festival including vegetable-stuffed spring rolls, steamed rice noodle rolls, ‘Nam Prik Long Ruea’ chili-paste fried rice, signature green curry with fish balls, rice noodles with ‘Nam Prik Long Ruea’ broth, mushroom and coconut shoot Tom Yum and more from Taling Pling.

JUMBO Seafood has brought over its healthy Thai-Chinese dishes including slow-cooked tofu in gravy served clay pot, stir-fried rice and stir-fried noodles, wok-fried spinach, stir-fried tofu with mushroom topping, and stir-fried pea sprouts. Diners can expect selected greens and healthy premium shabu sets from Evaime Shabu Shabu. Meanwhile, Sushi Den invites all to experience their vegan gyoza dumplings, seaweed rice set, assorted vegetable tempura and tofu salad. More savory menus are served by staple restaurants: Pang-Pao, Ros’niyom, Lay Lao, S&P, Coffee Beans by Dao, Café Chilli, Greyhound Café,Yuzu Ramen, Tsujiri.

Fire Tiger Bar & Restaurant is set to offer their rice caked topped sprinkled with sugar and sesame, deep-fried moji with burnt sugar topping, deep-fried purple potato balls, taro-infused soy milk tea and taro milk for the sweet tooth. In addition, more desserts and sweet beverages can be expected from Ang Bao who have prepared their signature ‘soy milk snow’ with vegan jelly in chrysanthemum milk and vegan milk tea; various refreshing soy milk-infused drinks from %Arabica; fruit-based ice cream including 1837 Black Tea Sorbet, Bain De roses Tea, Sakura Tea Sorbet from TWG Tea; and much more from GAGA, Karun Thai Tea, Kamu Kamu, Starbucks, The Alley, Thesis, and Mom & Sis. On top of the eclectic list of restaurants, visitors and eaters alike can indulge in the special promotion from ‘ICONSIAM DINE & SMILE’ as THB100 Siam Gift Card can be redeemed for every THB800 purchased on food and drink products.

Experience legendary menus in ‘The Feast of Merit and Vegetarian Food’ at SOOKSIAM ICONSIAM Iconic Vegetarian Festival 2

A variety of illustrious menus from all corners of Thailand have been assembled at SOOKSIAM. From the central region, chives cakes, vegan fish maw soup, Pad Thai, and a vegan assortment of deep-fried goods can be found at Krua Pa Cheun; famous steamed buns, signature vegan Tom Yum noodles and Yen Ta Fo noodles from Nakhon Pathom’s Mae Luan who is known for their unparalleled noodle recipes and cooking process; and premium organic mushroom products from Pathum Thani’s Fresh and Friendly Farm.

A taste of the North can be experienced, including Khao Soi curry rice noodles whose broth are uniquely and slowly simmered to deliver bold spice-forward flavors, Nam Ngiaw rice noodles, Nam Prik Noom chili paste and vegan pork cracklings from Baan Khan Tok; a list of healthy mushroom products from Lampang’s Kru Kan, and much more.

Indulge in the unique Isaan (Thailand’s northeastern region) where Khon Kaen’s highly touted soy milk from a secret century-old recipe can be discovered. Expect authentic vegan Som Tum, vegan Gaeng Om soup, spicy mushroom Larb and along with other favorites from Isaan.

A variety of desserts and savory menus are brought from the South including Phuket’s famous and rare soy bean cakes from Le Lamai alongside Pattani’s revered roti and tea.

In addition to the local favorites from all regions of Thailand, visitors cannot miss various exclusive recipes catered to the festival at SOOKSIAM such as the rare Hainanese sweet and savory noodles offered by Vises Kaiyang who has preserved its Chinese heritage. Their rice noodles are perfectly cooked before being tossed in sesame and soy bean oil and mixed with sugar, candied fruits and multiple grains such as dates, lotus seeds, peanuts, winter melon, and more.

The authentic roti with coconut milk lava, from Pattani, is set to debut at SOOKSIAM where its special component lies in the rich coconut milk lava before being served on top of the pan-fried roti dough. Taste the 8-grain fried rice from Jay Mew which blends riceberry rice with 8 various grains; tricolor boiled rice featuring wholesome ingredients from taro, pumpkin, carrot, tofu and mushroom from Tong Peng; chili paste Miang where each bite is wrapped by betel leaf and contains grilled yellow pepper which has been mashed with vegan ham — and eaten with fresh vegetable; and black bean burger, a signature special from Yes! Vegan with other exclusive menus, only at SOOKSIAM.

All visitors, shoppers, in-store diners and takeaway customers who have made a minimum purchase of THB250 can receive one item of either Real Thai coconut milk or Golden Mountain seasoning sauce, and receive 1 box of Benecol almond milk upon a minimum purchase of THB300 (upon availability of supplies).

Celebrate the heritage of Vegetarian festival filled with merits and wholesome food from 5 – 14 October 2021 at ICONSIAM, Charoen Nakhon Road. For more information, call 1338 or visit www.iconsiam.com

Gov’t Shifts 2022 Tourism Focus to Domestic Market

By

Khaosod English

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7 October 2021, 13:10

BANGKOK — The government said it has set a target of close to 1 trillion baht in revenue from domestic tourism in 2022, just as it starts to become clear that international travel to Thailand is not bouncing back as fast as the government had hoped.

A representative from the Tourism Authority of Thailand said the agency is working hard to promote and incentivize domestic travel throughout the next year, with the goal of generating at least 882 billion baht in revenue.

Plans to attract domestic travelers include more flights to the popular tourist destinations like Phuket and Chiang Mai, promoting newer destinations, and offering financial incentives and discounts.

A deputy government spokesman also said that demand for domestic travel is increasing as Thailand is entering the “high season” of tourism, i.e. the end of the monsoon season, coupled with the slowdown of coronavirus infection rates across the country.

Daily infections, which used to top 20,000, have now fallen below 10,000 in recent days, while vaccination rates are finally going up.

The government will continue to support domestic travel and introduce measures to assist the travel industry as it rebounds, the spokesman said.

The collapse of the lucrative tourism sector throughout 2020 contributed to Thailand’s worst economic plunge in more than 20 years. In 2020, foreign tourism brought in 332 billion baht, according to government data, which was an 83 percent drop from the 1.91 trillion baht international tourism generated in 2019.

Domestic tourism fared somewhat a little better, generating 482 billion baht, a 55 percent drop from 2019 figures.

Biden, China’s Xi Expected To Meet Virtually by Year’s End

By

Associated Press

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7 October 2021, 12:36

xibiden2 — Then-Vice President Joe Biden meets with then-Chinese Vice President Xi Jinping at the White House in 2012.(Charles Dharapak / Associated Press)

ZURICH (AP) — With tensions rising between the global powers, President Joe Biden and Chinese leader Xi Jinping are expected to hold a virtual meeting before year’s end, according to the White House.

The agreement in principle for the talks was disclosed after White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan and senior Chinese foreign policy adviser Yang Jiechi met for six hours in Zurich.

White House press secretary Jen Psaki said the two sides are still working through what the virtual meeting “would look like.”

The presidential meeting was proposed after Biden, who spent a substantial amount of time with Xi when the two were vice presidents, mentioned during their call last month that he would like to be able to see Xi again, according to a senior administration official, who was not authorized to comment publicly on the talks between Sullivan and Yang and spoke on condition of anonymity.

Xi has not left China during the coronavirus pandemic and is not expected to attend in person the upcoming Group of 20 summit in Rome and a U.N. climate conference in Scotland.

A White House statement on the Swiss meeting said Sullivan stressed to Yang the need to maintain open lines of communication, while raising concerns about China’s recent military provocations against Taiwan, human rights abuses against ethnic minorities and Beijing’s efforts to squelch pro-democracy advocates in Hong Kong.

Sullivan made clear that while the United States would “continue to invest in our own national strength,” it sought better engagement at a senior level “to ensure responsible competition,” the statement said.

U.S. officials have expressed frustration that interactions with high-level Chinese counterparts, including Yang, in the early stages of Biden’s presidency have been less than constructive. But the talks Wednesday were described as respectful, constructive and perhaps the most in-depth between the sides since Biden took office in January, according to the administration official.

China’s official Xinhua News Agency echoed that description, saying the two sides had a candid and in-depth exchange of views. It quoted Yang as saying that “China attaches importance to the positive remarks on China-U.S. relations made recently by U.S. President Joe Biden, and China has noticed that the U.S. side said it … is not seeking a new Cold War.”

Yang added, however, that China opposes defining the relationship as “competitive” and urged the U.S. to stop using Taiwan, Hong Kong, human rights and other issues to interfere in what China calls its internal affairs.

The White House said the meeting was intended to serve as a follow-up to last month’s call between Biden and Xi in which Biden stressed the need to set clear parameters in their competition.

Still, the U.S.-China relationship has been under strain, exacerbated recently by the Chinese military’s flying dozens of sorties near the self-ruled island of Taiwan, which Beijing considers part of its territory.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Wednesday reiterated concerns that Beijing was undermining regional peace and stability with its “provocative” action. China sent a record 56 fighter planes toward Taiwan on Monday alone.

“We strongly urge Beijing to cease its military, diplomatic and economic pressure and coercion directed at Taiwan,” said Blinken, who was in Paris for talks with French officials.

At the start of Biden’s presidency, he pledged to press Beijing on its human rights record. His administration has affirmed the U.S. position, first made late in the Trump administration, that China’s repression of Uyghur Muslims and other minorities in its northwest Xinjiang region was “genocide.”

In March, the United States, in coordination with the European Union, United Kingdom and Canada, imposed sanctions on top communist party officials for their roles in detaining and abusing Uyghurs and other ethnic minorities. At June’s Group of Seven summit in England, Biden successfully pressed fellow leaders to include specific language criticizing China’s use of forced labor and other human rights abuses in the leaders’ joint statement.

Human rights advocates and Republican lawmakers in the U.S. have raised concerns that the administration might be easing pressure on human rights as it looks for cooperation from Beijing on the global effort on climate change and in thwarting North Korea’s nuclear program.

The White House said last week it did not have a position on the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act, which was passed by the U.S. Senate in July.

U.S. Sen. Marco Rubio, a Florida Republican and sponsor of the legislation, wrote in the Washington Examiner on Wednesday that “the Biden administration is choosing to ignore the Chinese Communist Party’s egregious human rights abuses to strike a deal on climate.”

Psaki pushed back against the criticism. She asserted that Biden, unlike President Donald Trump, “has spoken out against human rights abuses, has raised his concerns about human rights abuses directly with President Xi and we have done that at every level.”

The U.S. signaled this week that, for the time being, it plans to stick with tariffs levied against China during the Trump administration.

U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai, in a speech in Washington this week, said she would begin engaging her Chinese counterparts to discuss Beijing’s failure to meet commitments made in the first phase of a U.S.-China trade agreement signed in January 2020. Biden has criticized Beijing for “coercive” trade practices, including its use of forced labor, that has led to an unfair playing field.

“We will use the full range of tools we have and develop new tools as needed to defend American economic interests from harmful policies and practices,” Tai said.

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Madhani reported from Washington. Associated Press writers Alexandra Jaffe in Washington, Matthew Lee in Paris and Ken Moritsugu in Beijing contributed to this report.

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