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Digital Wallet In Detail: PM Seeks Parliamentary Approval For 500 Billion Budget – Launch In May 2024

On November 10, Srettha Thavisin, Prime Minister and Finance Minister, announced the results of a meeting on the policy to pump 10,000 baht into the economy through a large-scale digital wallet program. The summary shows that the government will invest a total of 600 billion baht into the economy, which will benefit 50 million people. Of this amount, 500 billion baht will be allocated to the digital wallet project and another 100 billion baht will go to the performance improvement fund.

The eligibility criteria for receiving the 10,000 baht were outlined as follows:

  • Citizens aged 16 and above.
  • Monthly income not exceeding 70,000 baht.
  • Bank deposits not exceeding 500,000 baht.
  • Usable within the district according to the citizen’s ID card.
  • The spending period is 6 months.
  • Expenditure would be limited to the district level.
  • Only the purchase of consumer goods permitted in the initial phase.

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The 10,000 baht digital wallet handouts cannot be used for the following transaction: alcohol, tobacco & marijuana, online products, services; gold & gems, debt payments; water, electricity and phone utilities, petrol and gas, and cannot be exchanged to cash.

Participating businesses were not required to register for VAT, but businesses that could convert the funds into cash had to be registered for VAT.

“This initiative was not a form of welfare for the impoverished, but a measure to inject money into the economy and allow citizens to play a role in the country’s economic recovery while maintaining financial discipline,” Srettha said.

The distribution of benefits would be facilitated by the existing digital wallet system, which already has 40 million registered users and over 1.8 million known companies. The use of blockchain technology was mentioned to ensure transparency and prevent various forms of corruption.

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In addition, the government planned to introduce tax deductions for Thais, allowing them to reduce their personal income tax by submitting receipts for goods and services totalling up to 50,000 baht. Tax rebates would also be granted, making it a comprehensive program to boost the economy for those who are not eligible for the digital wallet program. An e-refund program was to be introduced from January 2024.

The digital wallet project was expected to take some time for consideration by the Council of State, and a proposal for a 500 billion baht loan was to be drafted and presented to the parliament by early next year. The funds should be available to the public in May 2024. The government will payback the 500 billion baht used in four years.

Another 100 billion baht that will go to support 13 key industries is scheduled to be implemented in June 2024. They include aviation, health tourism, agriculture and biotech, robotics, the new motor industry, future food, medical centres, security, and R&D.

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CP Group’s Dhanin Bestowed with Prestigious Order by Japanese Emperor

Dhanin Chearavanont, Senior Chairman of Charoen Pokphand (CP) Group, has been bestowed with the “Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Star”, by Japan’s Emperor Naruhito for his role in promoting the Thai and Japanese economies.

The “Order of the Rising Sun” is the highest national decoration by the Japanese government to the private sector.

The award ceremony for foreigners for the autumn 2023 season took place at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo on November 8. The emperor presided over the ceremony while Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida presented the order to the recipients.

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The Japanese government stated that Dhanin, senior chairman of CP Group and a Thai businessman, was awarded the order due to his vital role in promoting economic exchanges between Thailand and Japan. The senior chairman has also cooperated with several Japanese companies and helped further improved their businesses, strengthening the economic ties between the two countries for several years.

Furthermore, Dhanin has also played an important role in promoting Japanese culture through CP Group’s selling of Japanese food products in Thailand, which has led to the widespread development and promotion of Japanese culture in the country, the government said.

Quoting a report by Nikkei, a Japanese media organisation, the government said that CP was the Thai company that had revolutionised Japan’s dining table after it started exporting frozen chicken to Japan in 1973, being the first company to do so. The move has provided Japanese households an access to affordable, high quality source of protein over the years.

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Dhanin, who heads Thailand’s largest private conglomerate, said he was honoured to receive the order, and he considered this achievement one of the proudest moments in his life.

“CP Group has maintained a positive relationship with Japan under our principle of ‘3 benefits’,” he said. “In any country that we invest in, CP Group aims to ensure that our businesses generate benefits in three aspects: To the respective country, its people, and lastly to the company.”

Dhanin said that after starting its frozen chicken export business with Japan in 1973, CP Group had established partnerships with leading Japanese corporations, including Itochu, Japan’s third-largest trading company and the fifth-largest on the Japanese stock market. The partnership has enabled Itochu to expand its various businesses in Japan as well as invest in Thailand’s food manufacturing sector.

CP and Itochu went on to partner with CITIC Group, one of China’s largest conglomerates with businesses in financial services, advanced intelligent manufacturing, advanced materials, new consumption and new-type urbanisation.

“This partnership of Thai, Japanese and Chinese conglomerates will strengthen the potential of the business sector in the Asian region to compete at the global level,” said Dhanin. “As for CP, we will use this joint venture to expand business opportunities in agriculture, industry, food, retail and international trade by using expertise of all parties. I am confident that this cooperation will help boost trading and investment in Thailand and across the region.”

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Bangkok’s Second Shake Shack Coming To The Emsphere

Bangkok – Shake Shack, the iconic New York-based burger brand, announces its second location in Bangkok at THE EMSPHERE, the vibrant retail destination in the heart of Sukhumvit, with a dynamic installation by local artist P7 from November 8 – December 3, 2023.

Shake Shack X P7 Installation at BTS Phrom Phong Station

Leading up to the official opening, Shake Shack has tapped P7, a Bangkok-based artist and designer known for his distinctive hand-drawn street art graffiti, to create an eye-catching installation at BTS Phrom Phong Station, where a skywalk will soon connect all three malls in EM DISTRICT, including the soon-to-be-opened THE EMSPHERE.

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As a tribute to Shake Shack’s origin, P7 recreated a New York Subway station in his own uniquely fun and playful style with the theme ‘From New York to THE EMSPHERE.’

The mural features P7’s signature surreal characters, representing the diversity of people in Sukhumvit, and the colors epitomize the ever-changing energy of the neighborhood. Keen-eyed observers might even spot hints of the menu items that will be launched at THE EMSPHERE Shack.

To celebrate this remarkable collaboration, Shake Shack invites fans to participate in exclusive giveaways and win Shack-themed swag items through their social media channels. To learn more about how you can win simply by visiting the installation, be sure to follow Shake Shack Thailand on Facebook and Instagram.

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Elevated Versions of American Classics

Shake Shack will continue to serve elevated, modern and fun versions of American classics, with new additions coming to the second location. The menu showcases responsibly sourced premium ingredients with everything made-to-order. Signature items include ShackBurger®, Chicken Shack, ‘Shroom Burger, Crinkle-Cut Fries, Shakes, ShackMeister® Ale, Shack Red®, Shack White® and Shack Attack concrete in addition to Thailand exclusive items.

Shake Shack is working with Maxim’s Caterers Limited to open the second Shake Shack in Thailand, continuing its commitment to ‘Stand For Something Good®.’ This mission is shown through sourcing the best ingredients and by building connections with local communities, with the goal of creating a lively and friendly gathering place in Sukhumvit.

Location: Shake Shack The Emsphere, G & GM Floor , 628 Sukhumvit Road, Khlong Tan, Khlong Toei, Bangkok 10110

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About Shake Shack

Shake Shack serves elevated versions of American classics using only the best ingredients. It’s known for its delicious made-to-order Angus beef burgers, crispy chicken, hand-spun milkshakes, house-made lemonades, beer, wine, and more.

With its high-quality food at a great value, warm hospitality, and a commitment to crafting uplifting experiences, Shake Shack quickly became a cult-brand with widespread appeal. Shake Shack’s purpose is to Stand For Something Good®, from its premium ingredients and employee development, to its inspiring designs and deep community investment.

Since the original Shack opened in 2004 in NYC’s Madison Square Park, the Company has expanded to more than 500 locations system-wide, including over 300 in 32 U.S. States and the District of Columbia, and international locations across London, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Singapore, Mexico City, Istanbul, Dubai, Tokyo, Seoul and more. 

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About Maxim’s Caterers Limited

 Founded in 1956, Maxim’s Caterers Limited (a company incorporated in Hong Kong) is one of Asia’s leading food and beverage companies comprised of Chinese, Asian and Western restaurants, quick service restaurants, bakery shops, coffee shops, Japanese chain restaurants and institutional catering, while providing a range of festive products, including the award-winning HONG KONG MX Mooncakes.

It is also the licensee of renowned brands including Starbucks Coffee, Genki Sushi and IPPUDO Ramen, The Cheesecake Factory and Shake Shack in various territories. Altogether, it has over 1,800 outlets in Hong Kong and Macau regions, Mainland China, Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, Singapore and Malaysia. 

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The Hollywood Strikes Are Over. Here’s When You Could See Your Favorite Stars And Shows Return

SAG-AFTRA President Fran Drescher, hugs a member of the TV/Theatrical Negotiating Committee member in celebration after a news conference at the SAG-AFTRA offices in Los Angeles on Friday, Nov. 10, 2023. (AP Photo/Richard Vogel)

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Missed your favorite actors? After nearly four months of striking, they’re coming back. Wednesday’s deal between striking actors and studios and streaming services won’t immediately restore filming to its full swing. That will take months.

But the tentative agreement — which both sides say include extraordinary provisions — means that more than six months of labor strife in the film and television industries is drawing to a close. Soon, tens of thousands of entertainment sector workers could get back to work. And popular franchises, like “Deadpool,” “Abbott Elementary” and “The Last of Us,” will be a step closer to returning to screens.

Hollywood loves a happy ending. The actors strike might provide that, though there’s still the chance of strike sequels in the months ahead.

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Striking actors hold picket signs outside Netflix studios, Wednesday, Nov. 8, 2023, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Chris Pizzello)

Here’s some of what will happen next:

SO IS THE ACTORS STRIKE REALLY OVER?

Picket lines are suspended and the only rallies on the horizon are celebratory ones that the actors union is promising will happen.

There are a couple of steps that need to happen before the deal becomes official. On Friday, the national board of the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists will review the agreement and could approve it. Then, the agreement’s details will be released and the guild’s full membership will vote on it.

But when striking screenwriters — who started picketing May 2 — reached their deal in September, their guild allowed writing work to resume before full ratification of the contract was complete.

While it’s possible those votes scuttle the deal, the union’s negotiating committee unanimously approved the deal and called off picketing.

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Striking actors picket outside Paramount Pictures studio, Friday, Nov. 3, 2023, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Chris Pizzello)

WHAT’S IN THE DEAL?

The exact terms of the deal won’t be released until later this week, but a few highlights are known.

The union says the deal is worth more than a billion dollars and they’ve “achieved a deal of extraordinary scope” that includes compensation increases, consent protections for use of artificial intelligence and actors’ likenesses and includes a “streaming participation bonus.”

The negotiation arm of the studios also says the deal includes historic provisions. The Association of Motion Picture and Television Producers said Wednesday the “tentative agreement represents a new paradigm.”

It said the companies are giving “SAG-AFTRA the biggest contract-on-contract gains in the history of the union, including the largest increase in minimum wages in the last forty years; a brand new residual for streaming programs; extensive consent and compensation protections in the use of artificial intelligence; and sizable contract increases on items across the board.”

Duncan Crabtree-Ireland, SAG-AFTRA’s executive director and chief negotiator, told The Associated Press the gains made the long strike worth it.

“It’s an agreement that our members can be proud of. I’m certainly very proud of it,” Crabtree-Ireland told The Associated Press in an interview.

WHAT WILL START FILMING FIRST?

The strike put an immediate stop to “Deadpool 3” with Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman, as well as Ridley Scott’s “Gladiator” sequel. Those are likely among the first films that will resume production.

The resolution of the writers strike allowed script work to resume on shows like “Abbott Elementary,” “The White Lotus” and “Yellowjackets.” That head start might help those productions get back on the air sooner once their stars are cleared to work.

Television moves faster than movies, which once filming ends still face a lengthy editing and promotional process.

In recent weeks more shows and movies announced delays — Kevin Costner’s final episodes of “Yellowstone” won’t air until next November and the next “Mission: Impossible” film also delayed its release.’

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Performers with Disabilities (PWD) join a picket line alongside SAG-AFTRA and Writers Guild of America West outside Fox Studios in Los Angeles, Thursday, Oct. 26, 2023. (AP Photo/Damian Dovarganes)

WHAT OTHER CHANGES WILL I SEE NOW THAT THE STRIKE’S OVER?

Actors, lots more actors, will be talking about their work again. Splashy premieres will resume with their stars, as well.

Movies like “Killers of the Flower Moon” and this week’s big release, “The Marvels,” have been without their stars to promote the film. Strike rules forbid actors from promoting work done for the major studios, which kept Leonardo DiCaprio, Brie Larson and many other actors from doing interviews.

That’s prevented many performers, like “Killers of the Flower Moon” breakout Lily Gladstone, from having some big celebratory moments. (For more examples of performances that didn’t get as much attention due to the strike, check out this list.)

Some projects have gotten exemptions, such as Michael Mann’s upcoming racing drama “Ferrari.” That freed stars Adam Driver and Patrick Dempsey to attend the Venice Film Festival — and also allowed Dempsey to do an interview with People when it named him its Sexiest Man Alive.

But as Hollywood heads into its award season, expect to see more glamorous red carpet shots and interviews with stars.

WHAT ABOUT AWARDS SEASON?

Well, it’s back on, and it’ll be supercharged.

One of the actors strike ripple effects was to push the Emmy Awards from September into January. It’ll now join the Grammys, the Screen Actors Guild Awards and the Oscars in Hollywood’s traditional awards season. Those shows will all air between Jan. 15 and March 10.

Plans for the Emmys, and the SAG Awards, which will appear on Netflix, were in jeopardy as the strike got closer to 2024.

Still in limbo is the Golden Globe Awards, which is trying to reinvent itself after years of scandal, but doesn’t yet have a U.S. broadcast partner.

AFTER TWO MAJOR STRIKES, WHAT’S NEXT?

Another actors strike — this one by video game performers — is possible. Negotiations for that contract are ongoing, but a strike has been authorized.

Actors who work on video games range from voice performers to stunt performers. They, too, have expressed concerns about the use of AI in their industry.

The studios in 2024 will also be negotiating with set workers and their guild, the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees. From building sets to controlling the lighting and even creating effects, IATSE members are crucial to film and television production. They been severely impacted by the filming shutdown and have joined the picket lines in the writers and actors strikes.

One of the key elements of the actors and writers strikes has been how much streaming has upended the industry, which could also be a key point in the set worker negotiations.

And other sectors of the industry have moved to unionize while this year’s dual strikes played out. Some reality television workers are calling for a union, while visual effects artists who work on Marvel films voted to join IATSE.

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For more coverage of the actors and writers strike, visit: https://apnews.com/hub/hollywood-strikes/

 

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Thailand Polo Association Aims to Introduce Polo Into the 33rd SEA Games

Bangkok – The Thailand Polo Association is gearing up for the inclusion of polo as an official sport of the 33rd SEA Games, of which Thailand shall be the host in 2025.

The association recently organised the 33rd SEA Games Advocacy Meeting under the leadership of Kanoksak Bhinsaeng, Chairman of the Thailand Polo Association, along with Aiyawatt and Apichet Srivaddhanaprabha, Ploy Bhinsaeng, and representatives from the association, collectively representing six countries including Brunei, Philippines, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, and Thailand.

This meeting featured both online and offline participation and primarily aimed to enhance collaboration in the realm of polo among ASEAN nations in preparations to international tournaments.

Thailand Polo Association

Kanoksak Bhinsaeng stated that the primary goal of this meeting is to promote polo within ASEAN and work collectively towards becoming the leading nations in the field. We have received substantial support from the six nations represented by polo associations, all sharing the common ambition of introducing polo into the 33rd to 35th SEA Games, to be hosted in Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore.

“Further, we are confident in our potentiasl to establish ASEAN as the hub of polo and are fully equipped to host both national and international tournaments. In Thailand, we have state-of-the-art polo parks maintained by the association, all of which meet international standards, enabling us to host a wide array of competitions,” he said.

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Thailand Polo Association

The focus of this meeting also addressed crucial concerns, particularly those related to the potentials and preventative measures against horse and equine related disease outbreaks. Participants engaged in discussions regarding proactive strategies and actions to support one another in elevating polo within ASEAN, with the vision of positioning it as the global hub for polo athletes.

For the latest updates and information about the Thailand Polo Association’s news and events, please visit our official website at www.thailandpolo.or.th or follow us on Facebook and Instagram at “Thailand Polo Association.”

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JKN Shares Fall As Miss Universe Owner Petitions Bankruptcy Court

Jakkaphong Jakrajutatip or Ann Jakkaphong

Shares of JKN Global Group Public Company Limited of Ann Jakkraphong, owner of the Miss Universe contest, fell sharply again, over 30%, on Thursday, November 8. After she or he sent a letter informing the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET) that it has filed petition for business rehabilitation proceeding to the Thai Bankruptcy Court.

The letter was signed by Jakkaphong Jakrajutatip, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director stating that “The JKN Board of Directors meeting No. 10 /2023 held on November 7, 2023 has resolved that the Company, as a debtor, shall file a petition for business rehabilitation and nominate a planner to the Central Bankruptcy Court under the Bankruptcy Act, B.E. 2483 (1940) (as amended).

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On November 8, 2023, the petition for business rehabilitation has already been filed by the Company. In this regard, the Company would like to inform the substance of the business rehabilitation petition as follows:

1. The Company, as a debtor, submitted a petition for rehabilitation to the Central Bankruptcy Court.

2. The Company proposed JKN Global Group Public Company Limited as a planner .

3. Preliminary business rehabilitation plan guideline includes: (1) Business restructuring and financial restructuring to be in line with the current financial assumptions and economic conditions and solving working capital problems of the business to resolve the financial liquidity of the Company and restructure the internal organization.

(2) Extending the period for the repayment of debt and waiving interest rate in order that the Company can generate income from operation to repay all of its creditors and continue to operate its business. (3) Receiving financial support from new investors or financial institution as a source of funds to utilize as working capital of the Company.

(4) Providing guideline for the sale of worthless or non-productive asset in order to repay the creditors with the income from such sale. (5) Preparing the plan and strategy to manage liquidity of the Company, improving internal business organization and increasing business’s efficiency.

Submitting the rehabilitation petition will effectively solve the Company’s liquidity problem under legal mechanism and provide fair protection to all stakeholders.

In addition, the Company can continue its operation while being under the rehabilitation plan which is a sustainable solution to the problem and to create profits in the future. The Company will keep you informed on the progress related to the rehabilitation of the Company.”

Anne Jakapong Jakrajutatip Chief Executive Officer of JKN Global Group Public Company Limited 6
Jakkaphong Jakrajutatip showed off the new crown of Miss Universe on December 19, 2022.

The 44-year-old transgender media tycoon Ann Jakkaphong, made headlines internationally in 2022 when she bought the Miss Universe Organization for $20 million.

However, JKN clearly began to struggle in September when it faced a crisis for failing to repay a 609 million baht stock loan due September 1, 2023. Jakkaphong and her sister also had to sell nearly 100 million shares worth over 128.6 million baht later.

Ann Jakkaphong explained that the sale of JKN shares was due to a forced sale triggered by a sharp drop in the share price of over 50 percent in two days. However, she still holds a total of 392,287,682 shares, representing 38 percent of the total shares, and remains the largest shareholder.

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On November 9, she posted a message on her Instagram to insist that the Miss Universe pageant 2023 in El Salvador would go on.

“No matter what…. I always put The Miss Universe Organization as my first priority in life. No matter how joyful or painful it’s gonna be…. Our universe must go on, must be great and must stay on top as the legendary Beauty Olympics in the World! I will sacrifice and do everything for the great success of OUR UNIVERSE !  Thank you for your love and kind support to JKN!

The Miss Universe Organization, one of our JKN’s diverse business ventures, maintains a pristine record and remains steadfast in its commitment to seamless operations. Anticipate three spectacular broadcasts next week as we continue our dedication to excellence.  See you next week!!! Love you, everyone, with all my heart and soul!”

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This enTRANSpreneur driving business equality across ASEAN and beyond, earns global spot in INvolve’s 2023 Outstanding Role Model Lists

Nikki Phinyapincha, 36, is the founder of Transtalents Consulting Group, Thailand’s first diversity, equity and inclusion (DE&I) consulting firm driving LGBTQ+ economic empowerment and revolutionizing business equality under SDG framework.

New York/London/Bangkok, 9th November 2023: Transgender individuals in Southeast Asia face substantial challenges in securing equal employment and leadership roles. A 2018 survey by the World Bank & APTN revealed alarming figures: 60% of Malaysians, 77% of Thais, and 85% of Vietnamese transgender individuals experienced job rejection, discrimination, and harassment. They are mostly denied leadership promotions due to systemic barriers and damaging stereotypes. The 2021 study from Williams Institute at UCLA highlighted the severity of this inequality, with transgender individuals experiencing a 2x higher unemployment rate compared to cisgender peers, particularly during the pandemic. 

“After a promising interview with the HR Director for an internal promotion to the manager role, I was told that despite my qualifications, the company had no policy for appointing a transgender individual to the manager role. My credibility was questioned, and I was advised to seek opportunities in other sectors such beauty, media, or entertainment.” shared Nikki Phinyapincha, founder of Transtalents Consulting Group, Thailand’s first diversity, equity and inclusion (DE&I) consulting firm driving LGBTQ+ economic empowerment and revolutionizing business equality.

Founded in 2022, Transtalents Consulting Group has partnered with over 20 companies, including global corporations such as IBM, Warner Music Group, PepsiCo, mygwork, ZIM, Marriott International, San Diego Pride and more for DE&I educational programs and strategic communication consultancy. Among over 50 initiatives executed, Nikki launched the pioneering ASEAN Transgender Professional Leadership Program, a year-long initiative addressing ASEAN transgender professionals’ socio-economic inequities through mentorship and transformative seminar series, fostering inclusive policy, competency development and trans leadership representation awareness. The program was in partnership with YSEALI, Sasin School of Management, IBM and San Diego Pride and gained over 600 attendees across ASEAN and top media recognition reaching to over 33 million audience reaches.

“The call for systemic change in the organizations and society is my mission. People now seek genuine and meaningful change from their leaders, not superficial, inauthentic or tokenism activities. It’s time for data-driven concrete actions for sustainable and measurable results not PR buzz words. To be a truly diverse, inclusive, and sustainable organization, inclusive leaders should reframe their vision to advance their DE&I strategies that address specific issues with an intersectionality lens in order to improve internal organization and scale impacts to the broader business community, the systemic change must be intentional, intersectional and measurable in long-term including building a diverse pool of future leaders.” Nikki added.

In today’s global workforce, diversity and inclusivity are pivotal. They build customer trust, establish socially responsible businesses, mitigate legal risks and ultimately enhancing business and economic competitiveness. In the ASEAN region, LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs and employees face substantial barriers, including socio-economic discrimination and exclusion, legal obstacles, limited resources, heightened mental health challenges, and constrained access to leadership opportunities to shape their own future. “This is not only hindering personal and professional growth but also robbing human capital of vital skills and knowledge essential for advancing regional economies and societies.” emphasized Nikki.

Nikki’s impact transcended her organization and beyond, leaving an indelible mark on the community. As a force for “trans”formation in business sector, she has been recognised on the 2023 Outstanding Role Model 100 LGBTQ+ Future Leaders list. Compiled by INvolve and supported by YouTube, the DE&I consultancy and global network, the Outstanding Role Model List celebrates and showcases LGBTQ+ business leaders and allies who are breaking down barriers and creating more inclusive workplaces across the world. 

Founder and CEO of INvolve, Suki Sandhu OBE, says: “I’m so thrilled to be celebrating our 2023 Outstanding Role Models, a global group of trailblazing Executives, Future Leaders and Allies driving change for the LGBTQ+ community in business. All the individuals within these lists are championing inclusion and leveraging their experience and knowledge to drive impactful initiatives and strategic change within their organisations. It’s vital that LGBTQ+ individuals across the world can achieve career success, and these Role Models are essential drivers of change who are smashing barriers to progress.” 

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Toyota Pushes Thailand To Become The ASEAN EV Hub

Top managers such as Masahiko Maeda, Chief Executive Officer of Toyota Motor’s Asian subsidiaries, and Kalin Sarasin, Chairman of Toyota Motor Thailand, discussed investment opportunities with Srettha Thavisin, Prime Minister and Finance Minister at the Government House on Thursday, November 9.

Prime Minister Srettha mentioned that the Thai government recognizes the importance of the Japanese automotive industry in the country and is seeking cooperation in future developments. Prime Minister Srettha also plans to visit Japan in December to further discuss these initiatives.

Toyota said that it saw the potential in Thailand’s strong automotive industry, particularly in popular segments like pickup trucks and eco-cars. 

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Toyota executives meet Srettha Thavisin, Prime Minister and Finance Minister, at the Government House on Thursday, November 9.

“Toyota is committed to working with the Thai government to make Thailand the leading center for electric vehicle production in the ASEAN region while achieving the goal of carbon neutrality. And the production of internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles and electric cars such as HEV, PHEV, BEV and FCEV to sustain the supply chain and Thailand’s export car industry”.

In addition, Toyota is proposing measures for the disposal of end-of-life vehicles (ELV) that are in line with Thailand’s clean energy policy. 

With a 61-year history in Thailand, Toyota plays a significant role in the country’s economy, contributing over 12 percent of the gross domestic product. The company has produced and sold more than 7 million vehicles domestically, of which more than 5 million have been exported around the world.

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Carabao Launches New Beers to Compete in the Thai Market

Carabao beers are sold in CJ Supermarket branch in Rayong Province.

Carabao Beer and Tawan Daeng Beer, two new beer brands in Thailand, are officially launched and ready to compete in the 270–300 billion baht Thai beer market.

The Carabao Group, a major player in the beverage industry, has entered the beer market with its first product, “Lager” with 4.9 percent alcohol content. 

Their strategy particularly targets regions outside Bangkok. They focus on engaging beverage agents, liquor shops already affiliated with the Carabao Group, and convenience stores, particularly CJ Supermarkets, which are its retail networks in various provinces.

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In recent weeks, a Carabao Beer agent had announced that they are accepting orders, urging businesses not to miss out on this new product. 

Chief Executive Officer of Carabao Conglomerate, Sathien Sathientham, told Nikkei Asia that the company aims to establish itself as the third largest beer company in Thailand by 2024 with a 10 per cent share of the beer market. In the next 3 to 5 years, this share is expected to increase to 20 per cent, with an annual beer turnover target of 40 billion baht.

In November, Carabao Beer launched its products, including “Carabao Beer” and “Tawan Daeng Beer”. They initially have the capacity to produce 200 million litres of beer per year and plan to increase this to 400 million litres in the future.

The Carabao Group, which was founded in 2001 and listed on the Thai stock exchange in 2014, is known for its strong presence and sponsorship, including its support of the English football league in the UK under the name “Carabao Cup”

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COB of Carabao Group Discusses EFL Cup and Beer Business 

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Hino We Care moves forward to improve society

With the installation of solar panels system at the second location, Phitsanulok Polytechnic College, Phitsanulok Province

Hino Motors Sales (Thailand) Ltd. led by HMST’s president, Mr. Ken Iwamoto, executives, and Phitsanulok Motor Sales Co., Ltd. jointly donated a solar panel system for Phitsanulok Polytechnic College, Mueang Phitsanulok District, Phitsanulok Province. The donation was part of the Hino We Care project under the concept of “Hino Solar Powering a Sustainable Tomorrow”, which focuses on the importance of clean energy and sustainability for the environment. It also recognized our commitment to creating value for society along with sustainable business operations. This project was held after the project at Ban Lan Ueang School in Sukhothai Province, which was the first in October 2023.

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Mr. Phinit Bunsopha, Director of Phitsanulok Polytechnic College, said that “the college would like to thank Hino for supporting us with the equipment and the solar cell system. The significance of this energy is acknowledged by the college. Previously, the college paid this system by themselves. That is costly and can only generate electricity for an office block, now we get more installed from Hino. It was very generous to us, and the college is very grateful to the company. In addition to saving the college almost 3,000 baht a month on additional costs, the solar cell system’s energy can generate up to 750 units of electricity, which can be utilized at the equipment building and canteen. Additionally, solar cell system equipment is taught to students pursuing a career in electrical technician. In terms of sustainable energy, this can help them learn more about the system and acquire information that will aid society in the future.

Henceforth, Hino intends to carry on with its efforts to provide clean energy in the form of solar cells to different communities in Thailand. This will help to improve the ecosystem of the area and create a green society that uses clean or alternative energy. By lowering greenhouse gas emissions and promoting a sustainable environment, this also aids in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, or SDGs.

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 For the Hino We Care project, Hino aims to cover environmental care along with social development to achieve our goals for sustainable development and make the world a better place. The Hino We Care project to continuously delight Thai society and to ensure the protection of the planet for future generations and environment as long as possible. For more information, activities and latest updates, please visit www.hinothailand.com, Facebook: Hino Thailand Fan Club, Line: @hinoth, YouTube: Hino Thailand Official, and TikTok: @hinoth

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