Sasin Graduate Institute of Business Administration of Chulalongkorn University in cooperation with the Market for Alternative Investment (mai) organized the mai Bangkok Business Challenge® @ Sasin 2010 for H.M. The King’s Award the as a stage for young entrepreneurs to learn how to draw up a business plan that will result in a joint investment. The competition is supported by The Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET), Kiatnakin Bank Co., Ltd. and the Money Channel.
Sasin Graduate Institute of Business Administration of Chulalongkorn University (Sasin) and the Market for Alternative Investment (mai) opened the mai Bangkok Business Challenge® @ Sasin 2010 as an arena for master’s degree students of leading universities from 15 countries worldwide to compete for H.M. The King’s Award and a prize of over 800,000 baht. Since 2002, The Bangkok Business Challenge®, Thailand’s premier business plan competition conducted in English, has encouraged post-graduate students in business administration programs across Thailand and Asia to become more entrepreneurial. After four annual events, the Bangkok Business Challenge® was renamed “The mai Bangkok Business Challenge® @ Sasin” in 2007, co-hosted by the Market for Alternative Investment (mai). It set a new precedent in the standard of regional business plan competitions. And, starting in 2008, the competition welcomes participation from all nations across the globe, becoming the first and only truly global new venture business plan competition in the Kingdom.
Professor Toemsakdi Krishnamra, Director of Sasin, stated that “in this unstable economic environment, creativity, practical knowledge and clear business planning are the key factors to success. Business plan competitions provide one opportunity for business administration students to prove their capability in a practical way. Feedback from the judges who are successful business people from various fields is a bonus for all students in the competition.”
Each year, the business plan competition becomes more intense in respect of the quality of the business plans developed and the weider representation from the education institutions participating in the competition. This year the trend is to feature “green” business that is environmentally friendly.
With the theme of “The Seed of Success” this year, the trend has been “green” or environmentally friendly business. Fifty-five teams from 40 world class universities located in 15 countries signed up, including Cornell University, ESSEC, Mannheim Business School, Aarhus School of Business, Queensland University of Technology, Tsinghua University, Keio University, etc.
Mr. Vichate Tantiwanich, SET Chief Marketing Officer, Issuer &Listing and the Chairman of the mai Advisory Committee revealed that “SET is pleased to be able to again participate in developing new entrepreneurs from the mai Bangkok Business Challenge® @Sasin. Such activities are in line with mai’s mission to give significance to and support strong entrepreneurs, as good business plans lead to sustainable businesses. Having good plans will help firms find capital sources, including joint-ventures or banks and leads to fundraising on mai, an alternative market supporting the growing business of new entrepreneurs,” he continued.
“This year, the mai Bangkok Business Challenge® @Sasin competition is very challenging as competitors will have to present business plans to be implemented under economic uncertainty. Competitors must combine academic knowledge with business ideas, presenting a plan that is strong, including having robust corporate governance and social responsibility, which are important factors in doing business these days. Meanwhile, mai would love to see the business plans presented really come to fruition, with real joint-ventures carried out, which is the real objective of this project. mai, therefore, has invited executives from listed firms to listen to the final round of the business plan competition.”
Thitinan Wattanavekin, Head of Deposit and Marketing for Kiatnakin Bank Public Company Limited, said “being an official sponsor of ‘The mai Bangkok Business Challenge @ Sasin’ for eight consecutive years under the Human Development for National Development by Kiatnakin Project is part of Kiatnakin Bank’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) framework and the Bank takes great pride in providing this support for educational development. The Bank expects this English business plan contest to inspire the creation of new entrepreneurs with strong skills in business plan writing and possessing healthy sense of social responsibility. In addition, this prestigious contest provides Thai MBA students with a good opportunity to demonstrate their business acumens through their business plans and attract the interest of potential investors. More importantly, students will gain exposure to different ideas and perspectives from fellow contestants and be able to develop them into new intellectual capital for the Thai economy. Therefore, Kiatnakin Bank delights in providing support to this project which will lead to the creation of knowledgeable and responsible entrepreneurs whom we hope will contribute significantly to future national economic development”.
Sixteen teams from 11 countries have passed the qualifying round of the mai Bangkok Business Challenge® @ Sasin 2010 comprising 3 Thai teams and 13 foreign teams from these countries, Commonwealth of Australia, Federal Republic of Germany, Kingdom of Denmark, Kingdom of Spain, Kingdom of Thailand, People's Republic of China (China), Republic of China (Taiwan), Republic of India, Republic of Indonesia, Republic of Singapore and The United State of America.
Sunday, February 7, 2010
Saturday, January 30, 2010
TTA & UMS Won Accolades for Good Corporate Governance from IOD
Thoresen Thai Agencies Public Company Limited (“TTA”) received an “Excellent” assessment rating from the Thai Institute of Directors Association (“IOD”) for its corporate governance practices, according to TTA President & CEO M.L. Chandchutha Chandratat.
“This is a highly valued testimony to TTA’s efforts to improve our corporate governance practices in line with the best publicly listed companies. We are very proud to receive an ‘Excellent’ rating from the IOD, which assessed more than 290 publicly listed Thai companies in 2009,” said M.L. Chandchutha.
Unique Mining Services Public Company Limited (“UMS”), the coal logistics subsidiary of TTA, received a “Very Good” rating from the IOD as part of the same assessment process.
A number of evaluation criteria were used based on the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (“OECD”) and the SET Principles of Corporate Governance, namely 1) The Rights of Shareholders, 2) The Equitable Treatment of Shareholders, 3) The Role of Stakeholders, 4) Disclosure and Transparency, and 5) The Responsibilities of the Board.
“This assessment strongly reflects TTA’s accomplishments in developing a good governance framework. It also highlights our strong Board leadership, professional management and effective partnerships with our stakeholders,” said M.L. Chandchutha.
“TTA and UMS are determined to uphold good corporate governance principles and high professional management standards. Our corporate governance framework is an integral part of our goal to further develop a top-performing diversified business group and ensure the delivery of good long-term returns to our shareholders,” affirmed M.L. Chandchutha.
About TTA
Thoresen Thai Agencies Public Company Limited is amongst the top 50 companies listed on the Stock Exchange of Thailand with high trading liquidity. Its investment strategy is to grow through a diversified business portfolio of transport, energy, and infrastructure assets, both domestically and internationally. TTA is recognised as a leader in the dry bulk shipping industry. The company has also expanded its investment into other business areas, such as offshore services through Mermaid Maritime Public Company Limited, fertilisers and logistics through Baconco Co., Ltd., and coal-related businesses through Merton Group (Cyprus) Limited and Unique Mining Services Public Company Limited.
“This is a highly valued testimony to TTA’s efforts to improve our corporate governance practices in line with the best publicly listed companies. We are very proud to receive an ‘Excellent’ rating from the IOD, which assessed more than 290 publicly listed Thai companies in 2009,” said M.L. Chandchutha.
Unique Mining Services Public Company Limited (“UMS”), the coal logistics subsidiary of TTA, received a “Very Good” rating from the IOD as part of the same assessment process.
A number of evaluation criteria were used based on the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (“OECD”) and the SET Principles of Corporate Governance, namely 1) The Rights of Shareholders, 2) The Equitable Treatment of Shareholders, 3) The Role of Stakeholders, 4) Disclosure and Transparency, and 5) The Responsibilities of the Board.
“This assessment strongly reflects TTA’s accomplishments in developing a good governance framework. It also highlights our strong Board leadership, professional management and effective partnerships with our stakeholders,” said M.L. Chandchutha.
“TTA and UMS are determined to uphold good corporate governance principles and high professional management standards. Our corporate governance framework is an integral part of our goal to further develop a top-performing diversified business group and ensure the delivery of good long-term returns to our shareholders,” affirmed M.L. Chandchutha.
About TTA
Thoresen Thai Agencies Public Company Limited is amongst the top 50 companies listed on the Stock Exchange of Thailand with high trading liquidity. Its investment strategy is to grow through a diversified business portfolio of transport, energy, and infrastructure assets, both domestically and internationally. TTA is recognised as a leader in the dry bulk shipping industry. The company has also expanded its investment into other business areas, such as offshore services through Mermaid Maritime Public Company Limited, fertilisers and logistics through Baconco Co., Ltd., and coal-related businesses through Merton Group (Cyprus) Limited and Unique Mining Services Public Company Limited.
Saturday, January 2, 2010
Corporate Governance in Banks and Insurance Companies: The Experience of Kosovo
Private Enterprise
Riinvest Institute
December 15, 2009
Article at a Glance:
Riinvest Institute’s survey of corporate governance practices in the Kosovar financial system reveals improvements in transparency, disclosure, and shareholder rights over the last decade.
Improvements are lacking in the area of board composition and relations with stakeholders, especially the business community.
Lack of attention on the part of financial institutions to the views and needs of businesses is damaging to Kosovo’s economic development prospects.
Government should encourage more competition in the financial sector and take actions to improve the supply and affordability of credit to the private sector.
Read this and other Economic Reform Feature Service articles online at http://www.cipe.org/featureservice
Riinvest Institute
December 15, 2009
Article at a Glance:
Riinvest Institute’s survey of corporate governance practices in the Kosovar financial system reveals improvements in transparency, disclosure, and shareholder rights over the last decade.
Improvements are lacking in the area of board composition and relations with stakeholders, especially the business community.
Lack of attention on the part of financial institutions to the views and needs of businesses is damaging to Kosovo’s economic development prospects.
Government should encourage more competition in the financial sector and take actions to improve the supply and affordability of credit to the private sector.
Read this and other Economic Reform Feature Service articles online at http://www.cipe.org/featureservice
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
TCDC hosts ‘Bangkok Creative City’ seminar along with launch of ‘Skills Mapping’ project to show potential of 6 creativity hotspots across Bangkok
Thailand Creative & Design Center (TCDC) has joined forces with government and private sectors in ‘Bangkok Creative City’ seminar to brainstorm ideas that will turn Bangkok into one of the world’s leading creative city. The event highlights the launch of ‘Skills Mapping’ project to unveil six areas of Bangkok that are tipped as high-potential, money-spinning creative industry zones.
Mr. Apisit Laistrooglai, Managing Director of TCDC, provides background about the seminar: “The government has recently made creative economy concept a key policy under its administration to give Thailand a new economic catalyst and boost competitiveness of Thai entrepreneurs within the framework of Creative Thailand strategy, with a goal to make Thailand the Creative Industry Hub of ASEAN. TCDC has therefore conceived an implementation plan that includes a range of activities and events in support of this government policy and is gearing up the process to build the body of knowledge in the area of creativity in order to promote creative industry development among all social sectors.”
“Over the past few years, he continues, “TCDC has played the key role in laying a strong foundation for creative economy in Thailand. Our ongoing operation plan under this mission will see us increase our pace in boosting awareness and understanding of all stakeholders about the importance of this economic concept through a variety of activities. As an indicator of achievement in creative economy development, establishment of a ‘creative city’ is taken into consideration. We have therefore teamed up with Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) to jointly host ‘Bangkok Creative City’ seminar as a major event to create awareness and attention of government agencies, entrepreneurs, and other stakeholders on the relevance and direction Bangkok’s development into a creative city.”
‘Bangkok Creative City’ seminar brings together experts from public and private sectors to exchange their points of view and help broaden audience’s perspective of Bangkok in new dimension as a creative city. The seminar begins on Monday, November 30 with a panel discussion on ‘Bangkok’s Preparedness to Become Creative City’ by Mr. Somsak Chantawattana,
Director General of BMA’s Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism; Mr. Sorapong Paitoonphong, Head of Mass Transit System Development Group, Office of Transport and Traffic Policy and Planning (OTP); Mr. Adhiruth Thothaveesansuk, Managing Director of Convergence and Managing Director of Office/SME Solution & Wireless Access, True Corporation Plc; Ms. Karuna Dechatiwong Na Ayuttaya, Chief of International Events Section, Events Planning Division, Events Department, Tourism Authority of Thailand; and Mr. Kittiratana Pitipanich, Design Advisory Director of TCDC. The fist day of the seminar also highlights the launch of ‘Skills Mapping’ project through a presentation on ‘Bangkok Creative Spaces: Chatuchak, Thonglor, Siam Square, Town In Town, RCA, and Sukhumvit’ by Dr. Peeradorn Kaewlai and Ms. Supicha Silairat from Creative City Research Group, Urban Planning Unit, Faculty of Architecture and Planning, Thammasat University. The research-based presentation points out the potential of the six areas in terms of products and services available, influences of social context and culture on clustering of creative industry entrepreneurs, as well as problems and needs of the creative businesses. The day ends with a lecture on “Creative City Design – Innovation-inspiring Architecture and Planning” by Mr. Michael Freedman, an international expert in urban planning and design who was behind planning of Silicon Valley and is regarded as a guru in strategic integration to make cities pleasant and develop in sustainable way.
Tuesday, December 1, begins with a special lecture on ‘Innovative Approach to Strategic Urban Planning and Design for Creativity-inspiring World Metropolises’ by Mr. Freedman, followed by ‘Evolution of Bangkok Creative City’ symposium by Dr. Narongchai Akraseranee, Chairman of the Office of Knowledge Management and Development (OKMD), Mr. Apirak Kosayodhin, Advisor to the Prime Minister, and Ms. Supaluck Umpujh, Senior Vice President of The Emporium Shopping Complex Co., Ltd. and Executive Vice President of Siam Paragon Development Co., Ltd. The seminar will be wrapped up by a keynote speech on ‘Creative City Development as Catalyst of Thai Economy’ by Mr. Alongkorn Ponlaboot, Deputy Minister of Commerce and Chairman of the Sub-committee on Creative Economy Policy.
Mr. Apisit adds that the seminar is expected to inspire government and private organizations to play their part in creative city development as a solid foundation of the nation’s wealth and added economic value, as well as a cornerstone for development of Thailand’s creative economy.
Mr. Apisit Laistrooglai, Managing Director of TCDC, provides background about the seminar: “The government has recently made creative economy concept a key policy under its administration to give Thailand a new economic catalyst and boost competitiveness of Thai entrepreneurs within the framework of Creative Thailand strategy, with a goal to make Thailand the Creative Industry Hub of ASEAN. TCDC has therefore conceived an implementation plan that includes a range of activities and events in support of this government policy and is gearing up the process to build the body of knowledge in the area of creativity in order to promote creative industry development among all social sectors.”
“Over the past few years, he continues, “TCDC has played the key role in laying a strong foundation for creative economy in Thailand. Our ongoing operation plan under this mission will see us increase our pace in boosting awareness and understanding of all stakeholders about the importance of this economic concept through a variety of activities. As an indicator of achievement in creative economy development, establishment of a ‘creative city’ is taken into consideration. We have therefore teamed up with Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) to jointly host ‘Bangkok Creative City’ seminar as a major event to create awareness and attention of government agencies, entrepreneurs, and other stakeholders on the relevance and direction Bangkok’s development into a creative city.”
‘Bangkok Creative City’ seminar brings together experts from public and private sectors to exchange their points of view and help broaden audience’s perspective of Bangkok in new dimension as a creative city. The seminar begins on Monday, November 30 with a panel discussion on ‘Bangkok’s Preparedness to Become Creative City’ by Mr. Somsak Chantawattana,
Director General of BMA’s Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism; Mr. Sorapong Paitoonphong, Head of Mass Transit System Development Group, Office of Transport and Traffic Policy and Planning (OTP); Mr. Adhiruth Thothaveesansuk, Managing Director of Convergence and Managing Director of Office/SME Solution & Wireless Access, True Corporation Plc; Ms. Karuna Dechatiwong Na Ayuttaya, Chief of International Events Section, Events Planning Division, Events Department, Tourism Authority of Thailand; and Mr. Kittiratana Pitipanich, Design Advisory Director of TCDC. The fist day of the seminar also highlights the launch of ‘Skills Mapping’ project through a presentation on ‘Bangkok Creative Spaces: Chatuchak, Thonglor, Siam Square, Town In Town, RCA, and Sukhumvit’ by Dr. Peeradorn Kaewlai and Ms. Supicha Silairat from Creative City Research Group, Urban Planning Unit, Faculty of Architecture and Planning, Thammasat University. The research-based presentation points out the potential of the six areas in terms of products and services available, influences of social context and culture on clustering of creative industry entrepreneurs, as well as problems and needs of the creative businesses. The day ends with a lecture on “Creative City Design – Innovation-inspiring Architecture and Planning” by Mr. Michael Freedman, an international expert in urban planning and design who was behind planning of Silicon Valley and is regarded as a guru in strategic integration to make cities pleasant and develop in sustainable way.
Tuesday, December 1, begins with a special lecture on ‘Innovative Approach to Strategic Urban Planning and Design for Creativity-inspiring World Metropolises’ by Mr. Freedman, followed by ‘Evolution of Bangkok Creative City’ symposium by Dr. Narongchai Akraseranee, Chairman of the Office of Knowledge Management and Development (OKMD), Mr. Apirak Kosayodhin, Advisor to the Prime Minister, and Ms. Supaluck Umpujh, Senior Vice President of The Emporium Shopping Complex Co., Ltd. and Executive Vice President of Siam Paragon Development Co., Ltd. The seminar will be wrapped up by a keynote speech on ‘Creative City Development as Catalyst of Thai Economy’ by Mr. Alongkorn Ponlaboot, Deputy Minister of Commerce and Chairman of the Sub-committee on Creative Economy Policy.
Mr. Apisit adds that the seminar is expected to inspire government and private organizations to play their part in creative city development as a solid foundation of the nation’s wealth and added economic value, as well as a cornerstone for development of Thailand’s creative economy.
Saturday, November 21, 2009
New book ‘Chronicle of Thailand’ first to present major events in Thailand since 1946 through headline news
“It’s the first book of its kind to present developments in Thailand in the format of a collation of news stories, which makes it easy for readers to gain knowledge enjoyably” – Dr. Wissanu Krea-Ngam
Over 1,800 photographs, illustrations and cartoons, as well as 2,300 headline stories
Editions Didier Millet and Post Publishing, today (9 November), announced the publication of a landmark book that presents major events in Thailand since 1946 as it was reported through headline news, and which will be in bookstores by 18th November 2009.
Called “Chronicle of Thailand: Headline News Since 1946”, the publication presents dramatic happenings during the reign of HM King Bhumibol Adulyadej through 1,800 photographs, illustrations and cartoons, as well as 2,300 headline stories in a handsome 444-page book.
“It’s the first of its kind and highly readable,” said Dr. Wissanu Krea-Ngam, Chairman of the Editorial Advisory Board of the book and former Deputy Prime Minister. “We wanted to help people get a quick feel for key developments in Thailand since 1946 in a way that remained factual and neutral. Presenting information in the format of a collation of news stories makes it easy for readers to gain knowledge enjoyably, while still allowing them to interpret events for themselves,” he said.
“The book offers, in a visually exciting format, a view of events as they unfolded, including the coronation of His Majesty, the Vietnam War era, the October 1973 uprising, economic booms, great sporting moments, unforgettable tragedies, as well as quirky aspects of daily life that just happened to make the headlines,” said Dr. Wissanu.
“The book offers, in a visually exciting format, a view of events as they unfolded, including the coronation of His Majesty, the Vietnam War era, the October 1973 uprising, economic booms, great sporting moments, unforgettable tragedies, as well as quirky aspects of daily life that just happened to make the headlines,” said Dr. Wissanu.
Noted historian Associate Professor Tongthong Chandransu, who is also a member of the Editorial Advisory Board of the book, said, “By presenting Thailand’s modern history through a collection of news stories that are organized by year, ‘Chronicle of Thailand’ puts key political developments into the context of other events happening at the time – whether it be social, or cultural or sporting. It helps one better understand the mood of the times, through words and pictures, and brings to life key developments in our country’s history in a way that is fun to read.”
“For example, as you flip through the years, you can quickly get a feel for the sweep of developments and see how similar incidents around key issues like communism, terrorism or coups lead to differing outcomes, reflecting the progress that our country is making. You can easily trace the roots of longstanding issues, as with, for example, Khao Phra Viharn,” he said.
“It’s also entertaining because we have included amusing tidbits that made the headlines, even though they may not have been of great historical significance,” said Assoc. Prof. Tongthong.
He said that, “The strong visual layout and dramatic photographs should help make ‘Chronicle of Thailand’ a useful companion for people from all walks of life, including those with a casual interest in Thailand, as well as academics, journalists, and students.”
Kingdom in 2007. Editions Didier Millet has also produced ‘Chronicle of Singapore’ and ‘Chronicle of Malaysia’.
“The book’s international distribution and availability on Amazon.com will help non-Thais understand Thailand better, too,” he said.
The co-publisher, Editions Didier Millet, has produced a string of successful books on Thailand, including ‘The King of Thailand in World Focus’, and ‘Thailand: 9 Days in the Kingdom’. The latter was produced on the occasion of the 80th birthday anniversary of HM the King, and gathered 55 world class photographers to record daily life in the ‘Chronicle of Thailand’’s Editorial Advisory Board also includes Dr. Borwornsak Uwanno, Secretary-General of the King Prajadhipok Institute, and Mr. Vitthaya Vejjajiva, former Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Gold Sponsors of the book are Bangkok Bank and Central Group of Companies. Other sponsors include the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Bureau of the Crown Property, PTT plc, CH. Karnchang pcl, Bangkok Expressway pcl and Thai Tap Water Supply pcl, as well as Jim Thompson, James HW Thompson Foundation, Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok, and Bangkok Public Relations Ltd.
The official launch of the book is scheduled for 18th November 2009 and will be presided over by Mr. Anand Panyarachun at a reception at the Four Seasons Hotel.
‘Chronicle of Thailand’ is available from 18 November 2009 at leading bookstores in Thailand, priced at Bht 1,450.
It is co-published by Editions Didier Millet and Post Publishing.
Over 1,800 photographs, illustrations and cartoons, as well as 2,300 headline stories
Editions Didier Millet and Post Publishing, today (9 November), announced the publication of a landmark book that presents major events in Thailand since 1946 as it was reported through headline news, and which will be in bookstores by 18th November 2009.
Called “Chronicle of Thailand: Headline News Since 1946”, the publication presents dramatic happenings during the reign of HM King Bhumibol Adulyadej through 1,800 photographs, illustrations and cartoons, as well as 2,300 headline stories in a handsome 444-page book.
“It’s the first of its kind and highly readable,” said Dr. Wissanu Krea-Ngam, Chairman of the Editorial Advisory Board of the book and former Deputy Prime Minister. “We wanted to help people get a quick feel for key developments in Thailand since 1946 in a way that remained factual and neutral. Presenting information in the format of a collation of news stories makes it easy for readers to gain knowledge enjoyably, while still allowing them to interpret events for themselves,” he said.
“The book offers, in a visually exciting format, a view of events as they unfolded, including the coronation of His Majesty, the Vietnam War era, the October 1973 uprising, economic booms, great sporting moments, unforgettable tragedies, as well as quirky aspects of daily life that just happened to make the headlines,” said Dr. Wissanu.
“The book offers, in a visually exciting format, a view of events as they unfolded, including the coronation of His Majesty, the Vietnam War era, the October 1973 uprising, economic booms, great sporting moments, unforgettable tragedies, as well as quirky aspects of daily life that just happened to make the headlines,” said Dr. Wissanu.
Noted historian Associate Professor Tongthong Chandransu, who is also a member of the Editorial Advisory Board of the book, said, “By presenting Thailand’s modern history through a collection of news stories that are organized by year, ‘Chronicle of Thailand’ puts key political developments into the context of other events happening at the time – whether it be social, or cultural or sporting. It helps one better understand the mood of the times, through words and pictures, and brings to life key developments in our country’s history in a way that is fun to read.”
“For example, as you flip through the years, you can quickly get a feel for the sweep of developments and see how similar incidents around key issues like communism, terrorism or coups lead to differing outcomes, reflecting the progress that our country is making. You can easily trace the roots of longstanding issues, as with, for example, Khao Phra Viharn,” he said.
“It’s also entertaining because we have included amusing tidbits that made the headlines, even though they may not have been of great historical significance,” said Assoc. Prof. Tongthong.
He said that, “The strong visual layout and dramatic photographs should help make ‘Chronicle of Thailand’ a useful companion for people from all walks of life, including those with a casual interest in Thailand, as well as academics, journalists, and students.”
Kingdom in 2007. Editions Didier Millet has also produced ‘Chronicle of Singapore’ and ‘Chronicle of Malaysia’.
“The book’s international distribution and availability on Amazon.com will help non-Thais understand Thailand better, too,” he said.
The co-publisher, Editions Didier Millet, has produced a string of successful books on Thailand, including ‘The King of Thailand in World Focus’, and ‘Thailand: 9 Days in the Kingdom’. The latter was produced on the occasion of the 80th birthday anniversary of HM the King, and gathered 55 world class photographers to record daily life in the ‘Chronicle of Thailand’’s Editorial Advisory Board also includes Dr. Borwornsak Uwanno, Secretary-General of the King Prajadhipok Institute, and Mr. Vitthaya Vejjajiva, former Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Gold Sponsors of the book are Bangkok Bank and Central Group of Companies. Other sponsors include the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Bureau of the Crown Property, PTT plc, CH. Karnchang pcl, Bangkok Expressway pcl and Thai Tap Water Supply pcl, as well as Jim Thompson, James HW Thompson Foundation, Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok, and Bangkok Public Relations Ltd.
The official launch of the book is scheduled for 18th November 2009 and will be presided over by Mr. Anand Panyarachun at a reception at the Four Seasons Hotel.
‘Chronicle of Thailand’ is available from 18 November 2009 at leading bookstores in Thailand, priced at Bht 1,450.
It is co-published by Editions Didier Millet and Post Publishing.
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Hatoyama has political capital to spend-will he?
With Japan's public debt set to bulge to more than double its GDP this year, new Prime Minister Yuki Hatoyama has little to spend - except the political capital that is keeping his support rates above 60%.
Some pundits say that now is the time for Mr Hatoyama to make some tough decisions about delaying costly spending programmes - but with an-other election less than a year away and the economy at risk of slipping back into recession, many wonder if he will.
Support for Mr Hatoyama's cabinet slipped eight points to 63% in a Yomiuri newspaper poll published on Tuesday,while 85% of the 1,074 respondents said they'd rather see some campaign pledges broken than a rise in Japan's already huge debt."In terms of spending priorities, it might be possible to prepare public opinion for changes in details in the run-up to the upper house election,"said Sophia University's Koichi Nakano."But it would be risky.
"Even if the majority agree some policies are not needed and are worried about public finances more than mani-festo commitments, there is not necessarily agreement on what is not necessary."
Mr Hatoyama's Democratic Party of Japan swept to a huge election victory in August pledging to cut wasteful spending and put more cash in the hands of consumers and workers to stimulate growth at home. But falling tax revenues due to the fragile economy, and a public debt seen topping 200% of gross domestic product this year are making it hard to find funds.
Mr Hatoyama's high support could give him a window to put off keeping some expensive promises, such as an unpopular plan to make highways tollfree or ending a decades-old surcharge on gasoline that will cost the government 2.5 trillion yen ($27.81 billion) in lost tax revenues annually.
But analysts say taking voters at their word could backfire ahead of the election for parliament's upper house set for mid-2010."Whatever policy is targeted, someone will say 'That's not what I meant',"said Mr Nakano of Sophia University.
A poor showing in the upper house election could revive a parliamentary deadlock and stall policy implementation, and a failure by the Democrats to win an outright majority would leave them beholden to two small but vocal coalition partners.
Holding down spending could also risk sending the economy back into re-cession, given the fragility of its recovery from Japan's worst downturn."They can't address the state of finances at a time like this," Mr Nakano said. And focusing on the market-friendly reforms some economists say are needed could be a tough-sell given Mr Hatoyama's promises to voters to pursue a kinder,gentler capitalism.
Mr Hatoyama has also pledged not to raise Japan's 5% sales tax for the next five years, although most economists say a rise will be needed to cope with the increasing social security costs of the world's fastest-ageing population.
"There are no good choices here,"said Robert Feldman, chief economist at Morgan Stanley in Tokyo.
Some pundits say that now is the time for Mr Hatoyama to make some tough decisions about delaying costly spending programmes - but with an-other election less than a year away and the economy at risk of slipping back into recession, many wonder if he will.
Support for Mr Hatoyama's cabinet slipped eight points to 63% in a Yomiuri newspaper poll published on Tuesday,while 85% of the 1,074 respondents said they'd rather see some campaign pledges broken than a rise in Japan's already huge debt."In terms of spending priorities, it might be possible to prepare public opinion for changes in details in the run-up to the upper house election,"said Sophia University's Koichi Nakano."But it would be risky.
"Even if the majority agree some policies are not needed and are worried about public finances more than mani-festo commitments, there is not necessarily agreement on what is not necessary."
Mr Hatoyama's Democratic Party of Japan swept to a huge election victory in August pledging to cut wasteful spending and put more cash in the hands of consumers and workers to stimulate growth at home. But falling tax revenues due to the fragile economy, and a public debt seen topping 200% of gross domestic product this year are making it hard to find funds.
Mr Hatoyama's high support could give him a window to put off keeping some expensive promises, such as an unpopular plan to make highways tollfree or ending a decades-old surcharge on gasoline that will cost the government 2.5 trillion yen ($27.81 billion) in lost tax revenues annually.
But analysts say taking voters at their word could backfire ahead of the election for parliament's upper house set for mid-2010."Whatever policy is targeted, someone will say 'That's not what I meant',"said Mr Nakano of Sophia University.
A poor showing in the upper house election could revive a parliamentary deadlock and stall policy implementation, and a failure by the Democrats to win an outright majority would leave them beholden to two small but vocal coalition partners.
Holding down spending could also risk sending the economy back into re-cession, given the fragility of its recovery from Japan's worst downturn."They can't address the state of finances at a time like this," Mr Nakano said. And focusing on the market-friendly reforms some economists say are needed could be a tough-sell given Mr Hatoyama's promises to voters to pursue a kinder,gentler capitalism.
Mr Hatoyama has also pledged not to raise Japan's 5% sales tax for the next five years, although most economists say a rise will be needed to cope with the increasing social security costs of the world's fastest-ageing population.
"There are no good choices here,"said Robert Feldman, chief economist at Morgan Stanley in Tokyo.
EC SEEKS COURT RULING ON MANIT SHARE TRADING
The Election Commission will seek a Constitution Court ruling on whether to disqualify Deputy Public Health Minister Manit Nopamornbodi from office for holding shares in companies related to the media or state concessions.
Election Commission secretary-general Suthipol Thaweechaikarn said of 29 MPs the EC had referred for a Constitution Court ruling on whether to disqualify them for holding shares in prohibited businesses, four were ministers: Deputy Transport Minister Kuakul Danchaiwijit, Deputy Interior Minister Boonjong Wongtrairat, Deputy Prime Minister Sanan Kachornprasart and Manit.
The EC panel found that of the four, only Manit held prohibited shares on the day he assumed his ministerial post on December 20 last year. The three others sold the shares before taking up their posts.
Manit held 500 shares in True Corp from December 24, 2002- October 7, 2009 and 4 million shares in TPI Polene from January 21, 2004. He traded some shares 17 times, the latest on December 23 last year.
Suthipol said the EC believed Manit had violated Articles 265 and 267, resulting in disqualification and removal from his ministerial post, in accordance with Article 182 (7).
He denied the EC intended to harass Manit but it needed to check on whether holding prohibited shares should result in him being disqualified as minister.
Manit said he respected the EC's decision but would not resign till the Constitution Court issued its ruling.
He admitted he held 500 True shares, however since there were only a few hundred he did not sell them before assuming the post.
Deputy Prime Minister Suthep Thaugsuban said it would be too soon to decide whether to reshuffle the Cabinet following the EC decision. He said the government would rather wait till the Constitution Court announced its decision.
Election Commission secretary-general Suthipol Thaweechaikarn said of 29 MPs the EC had referred for a Constitution Court ruling on whether to disqualify them for holding shares in prohibited businesses, four were ministers: Deputy Transport Minister Kuakul Danchaiwijit, Deputy Interior Minister Boonjong Wongtrairat, Deputy Prime Minister Sanan Kachornprasart and Manit.
The EC panel found that of the four, only Manit held prohibited shares on the day he assumed his ministerial post on December 20 last year. The three others sold the shares before taking up their posts.
Manit held 500 shares in True Corp from December 24, 2002- October 7, 2009 and 4 million shares in TPI Polene from January 21, 2004. He traded some shares 17 times, the latest on December 23 last year.
Suthipol said the EC believed Manit had violated Articles 265 and 267, resulting in disqualification and removal from his ministerial post, in accordance with Article 182 (7).
He denied the EC intended to harass Manit but it needed to check on whether holding prohibited shares should result in him being disqualified as minister.
Manit said he respected the EC's decision but would not resign till the Constitution Court issued its ruling.
He admitted he held 500 True shares, however since there were only a few hundred he did not sell them before assuming the post.
Deputy Prime Minister Suthep Thaugsuban said it would be too soon to decide whether to reshuffle the Cabinet following the EC decision. He said the government would rather wait till the Constitution Court announced its decision.
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