AustChamThailand
A MONTHLY PUBLICATION OF THE AUSTRALIAN-THAI CHAMBER OF COMMERCE IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE AUSTRALIA THAILAND BUSINESS COUNCIL www.austchamthailand.com
December 2011
Thai Colombo Plan Alumni Recall Fond Memories in Australia In This Edition
A Step Towards Sustainable Transport in Thailand business brief Looking Beyond the Floods: Implementing Best Practice
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AustChamThailand Advance
chamber events Thai Floods: Responding and Recovering
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APEC Card update New APEC Card Rules
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members advancing Air Australia Readies For Take Off
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December 2011
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Thailand • Indonesia • Maldives • United Arab Emirates • Vietnam
Contents PATRON His Excellency James Wise Australian Ambassador to the Kingdom of Thailand PRESIDENT John Anderson Meinhardt Portfolio: Regional Links VICE PRESIDENTS M.L. Laksasubha Kridakon Baan Laksasubha Resort Portfolio: Alumni Belinda Skinner Top Talent Asia Portfolio: Communications and English Teaching
10 Business Brief 6 A Step Towards Sustainable Transport in Thailand 10 Humbled Beyond Belief 12 Looking Beyond the Floods: Implementing Best Practice austcham business awardS 2011 14 Congratulations to Siam Ocean World, recipient of the AustCham Education & Human Development Award Embassy News 16 Thai Colombo Plan Alumni Recall Fond Memories in Australia
TREASURER Leigh Scott-Kemmis DBM Portfolio: Advancing Trade and Commerce DIRECTORS David Bell Crestcom – Ra-Kahng Associates Portfolio: Speakers and Talks
23 chamber Events 13 Thai Floods: Responding and Recovering at Imperial Queen’s Park Hotel 23 Key Issues Dinner: Thailand’s Turning Point? at Westin Grand 24 Eastern Seaboard Sundowners at Hard Rock Hotel, Pattaya
meet the board 20 AustCham Directors at Work
NEW MEMBERS 26 AustCham’s New Members
APEC Card update 22 New APEC Card Rules
Members’ offers 29 AustCham Members’ Offers
members advancing 23 Air Australia Readies For Take Off
From the Chamber Office 30 Message from the AustCham Office
Khun Jurairat Jammanee HASSELL Portfolio: AustCham Ball Warwick Kneale Baker Tilly Portfolio: Community Services Sam Mizzi McConnell Dowell Portfolio: AFL and Eastern Seaboard Industry Khun Suganya Ransigutta TMF Portfolio: Business Awards Charles Wrightman Natural Ville & Lenotre Portfolio: Sponsorship Ben Yong Baker McKenzie Portfolio: Legal Saeed Zaki , Ph.D. dwp Portfolio: Breakfast Briefings EX OFFICIO Maurine Lam Regional Senior Trade and Investment Commissioner, ASEAN
From the Board
President’s Message COORDINATORS Paul Whyte New Asia Pacific ESB Coordinator Email: esb@austchamthailand.com Paul Wilkinson CEA Projects ESB Coordinator Email: esb@austchamthailand.com Harry Usher Lady Pie Phuket Coordinator Email: phuket@austchamthailand.com Australian-Thai Chamber of Commerce 20th Floor, Thai CC Tower 889 South Sathorn Road Bangkok 10120 Tel.: +66 2 210 0216 Fax: +66 2 675 6696 execdirector@austchamthailand.com www.austchamthailand.com
D
ecember should be the start of the joyous festive season, but for many in Thailand the hard realities of the flood disaster will have well and truly hit home. Two months ago who would have believed that the floods would have had such a devastating impact on Bangkok? Uncertainty: the worst enemy business could know. In Thailand we have learnt to expect the unexpected. So many people have been affected. So many businesses have lost inventory, machinery and months of production. The financial cost will be huge. Many people are out of work. In this time of crisis, it has been tough on everyone including our own AustCham staff, several of whom had to relocate house – one more than once. Now the hard work of recovery starts. Thailand will get through this though, as it has done so before. After many weeks of disruption, our staff and their families are cleaning up their homes. Kids are now back at school. People are back at work, but not all. Some factories will still be closed for many months. November has now passed. The flood waters are now starting to recede. In time we will begin to fully appreciate the loss and see plans emerge to rebuild. We will all learn a lot from this event.
Editorial Committee Belinda Skinner, Robert Taylor, Josh Hyland, Gregers Moller, Gary Woollacott Marketing & Production Scand-Media Corp. Ltd 4/41-42 Moo 3, Thanyakarn Village Ramintra Soi 14, Bangkok Tel.: +66 2 943-7166/8 Fax: +66 2 943-7169 scandmedia@scandmedia.com Advertising Finn Balslev Email: finn@scandmedia.com Contributions to Advance magazine are welcome. Please submit content to josh@austchamthailand.com by the first day of the month for publication in the following month’s magazine. Opinions expressed in Advance do not necessarily reflect the views of the Chamber. AustChamThailand Advance
As one of the lucky ones, largely unaffected by this slow moving tragedy, it was not until my family visited the Rangsit area north of Bangkok a few weeks back where I witnessed the flood waters first hand. Standing there, I quickly realised the enormity of the event. Flood waters 1.5m deep moving with strong current down Vipavadee-Rangsit Road. The waters stretching back more than 50km. Boats in place of cars. The unpleasant aroma of the water. The sight of young kids with their parents fetching food. The rubbish that lined the expressway next to abandoned cars. The sight of submerged planes at the old airport at Don Muang. It was a very surreal scene. AustCham has received much correspondence from our members over the past few weeks. Some expressed their frustration at not being able to attend our events. Others had more urgent business issues, such as trying to secure work permits for foreign experts needed to deal with the aftermath or planning to salvage equipment from their factories.
Many excellent ideas were contributed at the flood panel discussion held by AustCham. Some of these ideas made it into an AustCham paper presented to the Thailand Board of Trade. The Board of Trade represents private sectors interests in Thailand. Unquestionably one of the biggest frustrations I have heard was the reliability or lack of information. Why wasn’t there more forewarning? Looking back certainly mistakes were made. There were several unnecessary panicked exoduses made from Bangkok. Perhaps too much scare mongering. Will those green mambas ever show up? In the end my family chose to sit it out in Bangkok. Can we be assured that this will never happen again? Will the factories rebuild and reopen or relocate? Will insurance companies be prepared to insure these businesses again? There are many unanswered questions. And in other news... Earlier this year we reported on the changing criteria for applying for an APEC Business Travel Card. The APEC Card is a great business tool which facilitates travel by reducing visa issues. The new criteria impacted greatly on our members’ eligibility to apply for the card, and AustCham Thailand, through the larger combined network of Australian Business Asia, petitioned the government to make changes to improve and broaden the criteria. Recently AustCham received a response letter from Minister Chris Bowen outlining the revised criteria. Although AustCham believe that some of our concerns have been addressed we believe the requirements are still inadequate and do not address the needs of the many Australians who are doing business in Asia. For those interested in the letter from the Minister and ABA’s response, they can be found on the ABA website. I hope to see you all at Sundowners at the Australian Ambassador’s residence on 7 December where we can all enjoy a moment away from the thought of the floods and enjoy some good Aussie Xmas cheer. Take care.
John Anderson President, AustCham Thailand www.austchamthailand.com December 2011
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business brief
A Step Towards Sustainable Transport in Thailand need to be redistributed to rebuild the economy and repair damage to major roads. It is estimated that the rail plan could be set back at least four years.
By Abigail Evans - Executive Transport Planner at Meinhardt (Thailand)
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never thought that it would be possible to write an article on the progress of sustainable transport planning in Thailand. For decades there has been continuous investment in new roads, particularly highways (that without a doubt are required as a foundation for social and economic growth especially for a Country of Thailand’s size), but now the experts and the Government are starting to realise that it is not sustainable to keep meeting the increased demand for travel with new supply of roads and very little investment in public ‘sustainable’ transport.
Phase I: 2010-2014 existing network
• Rehabilitate tracks, refurbish trains, and reduce network bottlenecks and level crossings. Comment: Phase I is a short term fix to improve the immediate safety and maintain passenger usage of the existing rail system. This is typically reactive to recent safety incidents but at the same time will prevent further accidents.
Here are some transport infrastructure facts about Thailand (estimated by sources at MOT and World Bank): • Thailand road network = 490,000km • Thailand rail network = 4,356km There are 112 times more kilometres of road than rail in Thailand, which when compared to other countries highlights its imbalance: • Australia - 26 times more road than rail • Germany - 16 times more road than rail • Great Britain - 24 times more road than rail • Vietnam - 85 times more road than rail Developed between 1890’s and 1940’s, Thailand’s rail network was one of the first in Asia; the problem is that it hasn’t been upgraded or increased much in the last 50 years. Many of you will know that it is actually quicker to travel inter-city by bus than train. However, the train is generally more comfortable and safe than bus and has the potential (with investment) to provide more efficient and sustainable travel in the future. Over 90 per cent of the railway network is single track, one meter gauge, which although restricts train type and speed; 6
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Restructure
Phase II: 2015-2019+ Improvement: • Double track extension, sub regional connection and first HSR on standard gauge.
Existing Thailand Rail Map
it is compatible with it is surrounding countries (most of Laos, Malaysia, Cambodia, Myanmar and Vietnam). However, standard gauge and double tracking is regarded as the network for the future by rail engineers across the World, especially for High Speed Rail (HSR). The Thailand Rail Master Plan As set out by MOT and SRT a summary of the future development of the rail system is provided below with some comment. However, this was preflooding and it is almost certain that some Government money set aside for Phase I and even part of Phase II may
Comment: Some double tracking in the Eastern Seaboard has already begun on the freight network and during Phase II this will be gradually rolled out to improve the efficiency of the existing rail network. A standard gauge network will be constructed alongside key railway corridors (within SRT land where possible) that will have the ability to handle HSR. It is expected that this will start with a Bangkok to Nakhon Ratchisima (260km northeast of Bangkok) HSR connection. Phase III: 2020-2025 Enhance Efficiency: • Extension of the HSR Network and new logistic routes. Comment: Grow the HSR network to other major cities such as Nakhon Ratchasima, Hua Hin and consider further north and south HSR lines to connect to Malaysia and Laos (and onto China). This could also be developed to carry freight nationally and internationally.
AustChamThailand Advance
business brief
High Speed Rail in Thailand The World has gone High Speed Rail (HSR) crazy and Thailand is one of the latest countries to consider this new transport phenomenon. Can you imagine if it only took one hour to get to Hua Hin and only four hours to Chiang Mai. Think of your carbon footprint saving by choosing rail over (what will be) a slower car or more expensive aeroplane! However, don’t get too excited as it’s a while away yet but the train has definitely started moving so to speak. In 2010 the Abbisit Government agreed in principle to borrow US$ 400m from the HSR enthusiastic China to fund materials to build a network of HSR lines that would connect Bangkok with the north, east, south and west of Thailand and enable a continuous connection between Singapore and Kunming (China) through Malaysia and Laos. However, 2011 has brought about change such as the corruption and safety investigations into China’s HSR network plus the removal of its Railway Minister and, in addition, Laos were not ready to agree terms for their rail connection with China. Thailand too has its new Government and in August 2011 a new HSR plan was announced. What also happened in 2011 was that the Japanese Government approached Thailand with an investment opportunity, starting first with the funding of feasibility studies of HSR lines. These feasibility studies are due to commence early next year will inform the HSR network for the future. The new HSR plan includes the shelving of international connections for now and concentrates on connecting key domestic cities with Bangkok (Chiang Mai, Nakhon Ratchisima, Hua Hin and Pattaya). Unsuprisingly the Bangkok to Pattaya or Rayong link is favoured to be an extension of the current Airport Link. This makes sense as HSR is really only affective for distances of 250km plus and Pattaya is only about 150km from Bangkok with Rayong around 200km. The time saving is not significant with HSR on a link this short. An extension of the Airport Link would also be a lot cheaper and quicker to implement.
ASEAN’s high speed rail ambition in Thailand.
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business brief
Why does Thailand need to invest in its Rail Network Urgently? • Thailand needs to improve its infrastructure to maximise exports and economic growth. A higher speed / higher capacity rail network has direct benefits for reducing logistics costs and enhancing Thailand’s economic competitiveness. • Reduce impact of traffic growth by shift of freight transport and passenger long distance travel from road / air to rail. Environmental benefits in reducing Thailand overall carbon footprint, and contributing to the global reduction of green house gas emissions. • Rail lines are traditionally corridors of economic growth and an improved network would spur development outside of Bangkok and spread wealth across the Country to address poverty and social issues. • Safety – current track and locomotives are ageing. HSR design / oper-
AustChamThailand Advance
ation must learn from mistakes in other Countries (China). Also phase out level crossings and vehicle / train conflict. • Improved rail corridors are intended to be constructed to act as flood barriers. In conclusion, Thailand is preferring rail over road investment for the future although there will undoubtedly be set backs as a result of funds required to rehabilitate the country following its worst flooding in over 50 years. China’s best intentions to support Thailand in its High Speed Rail development may not work out but there is always Japan and hopefully the private sector that have an interest. It must be remembered that Thailand is still a developing country and the latest proposals to rehabilitate the existing railway is at least a step in the right direction and the upgraded standard gauge tracks and High Speed Rail will happen, someday!
Abigail Evans is an Executive Transport Planner at Meinhardt (Thailand) Ltd with over 10 years international experience in providing advice to the public and private sector on development and transport projects. The Meinhardt Group was originally formed in Australia in 1955 as an engineering consultancy. The Group expanded to Asia in 1972 and is now headquartered from Singapore. The Meinhardt Group is employee owned with more than 3,000 professional staff located in over 30 offices throughout Australia, Asia, the Middle East, North Africa, USA and the United Kingdom. Meinhardt (Thailand) Ltd. was established in Bangkok in 1991 and now employs 250 staff with an expertise focused primarily on engineering consultancy services.
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business brief
Humbled Beyond Belief By Belinda Skinner, Vice President AustCham and Country Manager, TopTalentAsia
E
ver get the feeling that no matter what you do, it is never enough? I seem to be suffering with this. I think it hit home right at the beginning of the floods when my husband and I were playing golf at Phatum Thani the week it started to flood. We were informed that the course was dry but only accessible by “big car”. There was only one other group on the whole course – it was like a private course to ourselves! During the second nine, talking to the caddies about the floods, they informed me their houses were already at chest deep. The absence of any warning meant that the majority of their possessions were now under water. They were living on the second floor, one of them too scared to enter the water given a crocodile had been captured nearby the day before.
car park. During this week, I will return and my staff will accompany me, as they too are compelled to help, but just don’t know how or where.
As I asked for my four iron I felt a strange sense of surrealism. The experience was both surreal and sickening at the same time. Flood victims were taking care of our every need on the golf course - we who had lost nothing. They never spoke further of their plight. They were not seeking sympathy, nor money, it was all very matter of fact and actually very light hearted. We naturally of course, bestowed a larger tip at the end of the day! My caddy just hugged me. A week or two following we contacted them to check on their situation. The water had risen further causing them, a group of 22, to evacuate to the roof! We travelled to Hua Hin that weekend (for a holiday - not to escape). Given the supplies shortage in Bangkok, we loaded our car with water, rice, mama noodles and canned fish. On Monday, after further shopping for: two tents (to protect against the sun); large mosquito nets and spray; antiseptic wash; and toiletries, my husband stocked the car and arranged a meeting point in the flooded area to meet the girls. They waded for two hours to reach a point not too deep for the car. On his arrival, 10
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he bought a boat and laden it with supplies. They were extremely grateful. We have been in regular contact and since delivered a few other items, their main request being Coke or Pepsi (which seems to be rarer than water!). After hearing about the girls suffering, I had the yearning to do more. The following weekend, I worked at the Red Cross assembling relief parcels. Tiring work, but so rewarding witnessing each truck loaded with 500 parcels, 500 rice bags and 2000 bottles of water depart the
Due to of work commitments it limited my ability to do more, however I was granted the opportunity to visit the Red Cross again, this time to join the expedition with their trucks to Bang Sai, Ayuthaya. Arriving at 6.45am we were organised into teams and allocated a truck. We perched ourselves high on top of all the relief parcels in the back of the trucks and the convoy headed to various locations. Four trucks were in our convoy to Bang Sai. We drove through several flooded areas and it was heart breaking to witness families living on grassed median strips and walk bridges – anywhere to escape the water. The only way through was via large trucks or boats! We went as far as we could then convened with several residents from nearby Moo Baans in boats. Many residents (predominantly older Thai woman – strong as an ox) appeared and worked tirelessly all day until after 6.30pm when wedeparted. AustChamThailand Advance
business brief
These women refused to let us (the volunteers) do too much, they would push us out the way and worked so hard – but of course we would not allow that to happen -a great deal of friendly banter was had. As each boat was loaded, one of us would board the boat and head out into the various Moo Baans. It was surreal as we were allocated various sois and here we were in motorised boats travelling down these sois. It was an extremely humbling experience when I turned into one of these Moo Baans – to witness the devastation this water has caused. It was still chest deep and yet the water had dropped already about 50cm. Cars were abandoned and we had to avoid hitting the car roofs as they were totally submerged. We proceeded house to house (accompanied by an elder who knew who had evacuated and who remained) we would maneu-
ver the boat to the front door and the residents would either swim their way through the ground floor or clamber out of their second floor. I would then stand on the boat and pass up the relief parcel, a bag of rice, and some water. Those that opened the door, we were greeted by the stench of moldy, rotting furniture and filthy water, I wanted to cry. I was at a loss what to do when I saw all these people – do I smile, as it is not a joyful occasion; I was trying desperately not to show a look of pity, almost to the point of avoiding eye contact, as though I felt responsible for their position. However, in the true Thai spirit, they still smiled (albeit a grateful and relieved smile not a joyful smile) all I could do was wish them good luck and hand out what I could. Some took photos of me and couldn’t say thank you enough.
We did several boat trips. It was all extremely well organised with the leader of the district directing us to various sois and informing how many people should be in each soi. The last house we visited, the owner climbed down from his second floor into the water with a coconut and machete. He sliced open the coconut and presented it to me – I pleaded with him to keep it for himself, but he was insistent I have it. He was so grateful for us being there, this was his way of thanking me. To be honest, I am not a lover of the fresh coconut juice, but I drank it in the boat on the way back to the trucks and it was the sweetest juice I had ever had – I’m positive it was all because of the atmosphere and the sheer appreciation from this guy. As I wiped away the tears, I felt so humble and insignificant.
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business brief
Looking Beyond the Floods: Implementing Best Practice By: Courtenay Smith, Intelligent Risks (IR) Pty. Ltd.
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he recent floods in Thailand have demonstrated the difficulties people, governments and industry face in today’s ever-changing world. Authorities consistently predict the potential for increases in extreme weather events globally, necessitating planning by companies and governments to enhance preparedness and ensure synergies across government agencies and private sector operators. Natural catastrophes, while not the only major issue that can pose a significant business disruption threat (mass industrial action, civil disorder or major terrorism can have similar effects), nonetheless serve to highlight the challenges in minimising the impact of adverse conditions on complex interrelated operations such as globalised businesses with multi-faceted supply chains.
Companies are often powerless to protect their operating environment during a crisis such as the floods in Thailand. They can, however, do more to minimise the impact disasters or manmade crises have on their operations. Proper crisis management planning and business continuity arrangements for companies operating in Thailand and the region are essential requirements for future success. Flood defences, be they permanent or temporary, can only do so much to protect life and property. As seen by the inundation of industrial estates, both their successes and failures can have significant consequences for other areas of the country. The protection of a company’s primary activities does not guarantee ongoing operations if supplies cannot be maintained, staff cannot travel to work, or shops are not open to receive goods and make sales. A whole-of-operations planning approach is required to ensure best practice crisis management and business resilience. 12
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Road closures can break the supply chain for businesses
Plan and Respond Crisis response can be implemented when a company faces an event that will affect its operations, people, assets, reputation or the environment. The level of response is dependent on the impact the event has on these elements. The response addresses ‘what’ should be done in the case of each possible scenario: from countering minimal to catastrophic consequences – and ‘who’ should do it. With risks and priorities identified in the planning phase, a company can properly assess how to respond to the situation. There is no point closing down operations if there is no or limited impact on
Priorities in crisis response are: • People (staff, customers, public) • Environment (water, air, sensitive areas) • Property (facilities, offices) • Business (production, supply, reputation)
the business. Conversely, there may be no benefit in attempting to continue business if there is no supply or demand. A suitable Crisis Management Plan will not only enable a company to respond to an event, but also serve as a baseline for business continuity and recovery. Flowing from crisis management planning, pro-active business continuity planning will enable a company to minimise the impact an event has on its operations. A Business Continuity Plan does not seek to manage the crisis, but to work around it: with strategies setting out ‘how’ business will continue to operate. It does not guarantee ongoing 100 per cent operations and there will always be circumstances when operations must close down. For example, the shortfall of stock in Bangkok supermarkets and convenience stores is not contributable to panic buying alone. In many instances, it was manufacturers unable to produce goods due to flooded factories, a lack of available staff, warehouses ruined or inaccessible, and transport AustChamThailand Advance
business brief
Case Study – Maintaining Capabilities in a Crisis A high-tech manufacturer managed to maintain almost ninety per cent of its operating capacity during a three-week countrywide crisis. As a supplier to the European automotive industry, failure to deliver components would have significantly affected vehicle production for a number of car makers across Europe. The company provided buses to transport workers between their homes and the factory, alternate accommodation at the factory for those in need, and meals for all workers. With seaports at a standstill, the company’s European partner charted private flights and hired couriers to deliver components to Europe. The European partner was also able to transfer some its production requirements to factories in other countries. Their planning saved the manufacturers hundreds of thousands of dollars in lost revenue and contractual fines.
between locations impractical. Each scenario demonstrates a break in the supply chain. An appropriate Business Continuity Plan provides alternatives or ‘work-arounds’ to provide ongoing operations wherever possible. It enables companies to maximise their operations during a crisis while still protecting assets and people. It is important to have documented and tested crisis and business continuity plans in place before an event occurs. Attempting to plan a response to a crisis with very short notice, or when a crisis is occurring, is rarely successful or efficient.
Recovery and Beyond Recovery is not just about mopping up the factory and people returning to work. It is ensuring that the next time a crisis occurs, whether it is a natural disaster or man-made, companies are better prepared to respond. As part of the recovery process, companies need to review their existing crisis management and business resilience plans to determine what worked, and what can be done better. Recovery must also entail repairing any damage to a brand and re-developing the relationship with clients and customers.
Companies operating in Thailand must face the reality that future crises will occur and, where necessary, change their approach to minimise their exposure to further negative events. Government assistance in the form of financial aid and tax breaks will assist in reducing the financial burden; but governments cannot be expected to eliminate the negative consequences of a crisis on a business. The proper implementation of crisis management and business resilience strategies will do more than keep businesses operating the next time around. It will bring back investor confidence and strengthen Thailand’s economy. Most importantly, it will assist in safeguarding people’s livelihoods. Intelligent Risks (IR) Pty Ltd is one of Australia’s leading international management services consultancies. It specialises in providing risk management, security and crisis management services to clients in over 70 countries. Courtenay Smith manages IR’s Asian operations from its Bangkok office. He has advised international companies on security, business resilience and sovereign risk in high risk environments. www.irisks.com
Thai Floods: Responding and Recovering on 26 October at Imperial Queen’s Park Hotel In the wake of some the worst flooding on record, many businesses and business people are faced with a range of complex commercial and personal challenges. There are many “What now?” questions, and few obvious avenues of assistance. To help provide some of the answers, AustCham Thailand held an open panel discussion with five industry professionals, covering safety, health and security implications; logistics, supply-chain and other related matters; businesses public relations and media strategies for businesses; relevant labour law; insurance and loss adjustment issues; and business continuity and crisis management. Those attending expressed that the discussion was highly valuable and a decision was made to hold a similar event on 29 November.
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austcham business awardS 2011
Congratulations to Siam Ocean World, recipient of the AustCham Education & Human Development Award
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variety.” Yearly marketing action plans are researched, developed and acted upon to ensure consistency of the brand and relevant communication to key target markets. New and innovative campaigns are developed around key events, festivals and new exhibits, coupled with targeted and structured public relations activity. Consistent and regular consumer research provides the information required to continually motivate visitors to ‘make a visit’ and ‘return’.
iam Ocean World is a subsidiary of the Oceanis Australia Group, the world’s leading aquarium operator with more than 17-years experience in the aquarium industry. The Group currently owns and operates four other aquariums in Australia (Melbourne and Brisbane), China and South Korea. Siam Ocean World stands as a landmark of aquatic excitement in the heart of Bangkok at Siam Paragon. The visitors can come face to face with a myriad of fascinating, rare and exotic underwater species from around the world while enjoying an ever-changing range of everyday spectacular shows and exciting activities that offers the visitors so many unique and rewarding experiences that all senses and imagination will ‘Come Alive’. FORMULA FOR SUCCESS Being the preferred attraction spot in the middle of Bangkok for families, tourists, and people of all ages, we possess a continuous passion in amazing our visitors with extraordinary marine life displays, education, and entertainment experiences. Information to visitors is provided on many different levels i.e. website, daily activity schedules, interpretive panels, signs, interactive, touch and feel exhibits. Apart from those, the marine education service provides fresh, innovative and interactive education programs for students of all ages.
COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGES We have a commitment to constantly re-invent the experience for our visitors and provide more than a day out to see ‘fish tanks.’ There are also many once in a lifetime experiences the visitors can do including diving activities, the close-up behind the scenes tour, the ‘Glass Bottom Boat’ experience where the visitors can come so close to 1000’s of creatures gliding around below and the famous 4D X-venture cinema for an almost real, all senses experience. CURRENT MARKET POSITION AND FUTURE PLANS The focus and key theme of Siam Ocean World’s marketing activities and campaigns across all facilities is that of “fun, excitement, entertainment and
Siam Ocean World has planned to expand the business into online channels to tab into more FIT markets. We are now developing the online pre-booking function which facilitates them to make decision prior to arrival. CLEAR COMMUNICATION The knowledge and idea sharing culture at Siam Ocean World is a two-way exchange communication. Apart from the “think global, act local” mindset to bring the best aspects to the Thai business arena, information from the Thai team is also shared back to the business in Australia. In terms of internal communication is essential when managing activities. Passing on of ideas and information through a range of communication methods and processes to individual staff to ensure their understanding of the objectives and intended results of every single activity and program initiated by the sales and marketing team. WINNING CONCEPT Siam Ocean World now features a whole new look and even more exciting interactive activities for the visitors to enjoy. Now, the latest technology is here to enhance their whole experience. These include Interactive SMS Screen, Eight-meter Interactive Wall, Multi-touch Screen, Green Screen Zone When discovering all the wonders, beauty and diversity of life at Siam Ocean World, they will surely ‘Come Alive’.
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AustChamThailand Advance
International School Bangkok A leader in education and education technology since 1951. www.isb.ac.th
Embassy News
Thai Colombo Plan Alumni Recall Fond Memories in Australia
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n 1954, the Australian Government began to provide Thai students with the opportunity to study in Australia with a Colombo Plan scholarship. By 1989, over 450 Thai students had studied in Australia using this scholarship. The Colombo Plan was launched formally in 1951 by seven founding Commonwealth nations, including Australia. Thailand joined in 1954. Many of the Thai Colombo Plan alumni recently attended a reception marking the 60th anniversary hosted by Australian Ambassador to Thailand, Mr James Wise. The Colombo Plan had many components, but it is best remembered for sponsoring thousands of Asian students to study in Australian tertiary institutions. From 1950 to 1985 it saww some 40,000 people from Asia came to study in Australia. There were a number of reasons for the establishment of the Columbo Plan and Australia’s involvement. Firstly, the Australian Government believed deeply that higher living standards in the region would foster political stability and counter the spread of commu-
“Two Thai students make outstanding achievements in Australia, graduating with honours” was the headline of a Thai newspaper in 1974 and an example of the reputation Thai Colombo Plan Scholarship students made as national representatives in Australia. (Photo courtesy of Colombo Plan alumni)
nism. Secondly, the Plan was inspired by simple humanitarianism, a desire to help people. In the 1950s, parts of this region were still recovering from the Second World War; other parts were still very poor. Over several decades, the Colombo Plan responded to this reality by transferring aid and knowhow to developing countries.
But the Colombo Plan’s scholarship program also had another, less intended but equally important, impact on Australian society. Until the 1950s most Australians had not encountered people from Asian nations in their daily lives in Australia. It helped to change this by introducing students from the region into our society. Subtly, but unmistakably, Colombo Plan students helped to erode Australian insularity. “I would like to thank all Thai Colombo Plan alumni for making Australia a better place by engaging with Australians and allowing Australia to appreciate your culture and companionship. Thai Colombo Plan alumni have not only pioneered overseas education but also added enormously to bilateral ties between our two countries,” Australian Ambassador James Wise said. Prasit Tansuvan, former Executive Director of Thailand Productivity Institute, was in the first group of Thai Colombo Plan scholarship students to Australia. He graduated with Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Melbourne.
James Wise, Australian Ambassador to Thailand (middle) and two Thai Colombo Plan Scholarship alumni - Niphon Saipetch, Royal Academic Astronomer (left), and Prasit Tansuvan, former Executive Director of Thailand Productivity Institute (right) at the Colombo Plan alumni function recently held at the Australian Ambassador’s residence.
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“I felt blessed receiving this scholarship. Being given the scholarship by the Australian Government made me appreciate the virtue of doing good
AustChamThailand Advance
Embassy News
Memorable photos of Thai students who received Colombo Plan scholarship to study in Australia. Courtesy of the Colombo Plan alumni.
deeds for others. I knew Australians well because they came to make friends with us. They invited me to play hockey and join a stage performance. Although I spoke only five lines in the show, the most important thing was that they counted me in. Life in Australia was fun and seeing their visions, their thoughts, enabled me to grow in my profession.” Although Colombo Plan longterm scholarships to Australia ended in 1989, the Australian
AustChamThailand Advance
Government continues to offer scholarships to foreign students. Since 1989, more than 300 Thais have been granted Australian Government scholarships. Today, scholarships for international students to pursue further education and professional training in Australia are provided through the Australian Government’s Endeavour Awards and Development Awards schemes. Together, these award schemes make up the ‘Australia Awards’ (www.australiaawards.gov.au).
AustralianAlumni To participate in efforts to unite and support graduates of Australian universities in Thailand, AustCham has recently launched a joint initiative, AustralianAlumni. By providing activities and opportunities for Thai graduates of Australian universities, AustralianAlumni will allow graduates to leverage their Australian education for personal and professional success. Acting as an umbrella structure for all Australian universities, AustralianAlumni will soon launch its website which will facilitate uniting Australian graduates in Thailand, bringing Australian alumni of all ages and states closer than ever.
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Embassy News
Thai Alumni of Australian Colombo Plan Scholarships Professor Pasuk Pongpaichit, a famous Thai economist and a Colombo Plan scholarship student at Monash University during 1965-1971 said “The Colombo Plan scholarship gave me and several other people opportunities to change our lives and become quality instruments equipped to help develop Thailand. I am a product of Australian education system.” “My impression of Australia is that civilians have political roles and are able to call for their government to move forward with polices that respond to their needs,” she added.
Dr Sirikorn Maneerin, Former Deputy Minister for Education and Colombo Plan student at University of Sydney during 1970- 1973 recalled her first long-distance journey, “Parents in the old days rarely allowed daughters to travel far from home, so I was excited to receive a Colombo Plan scholarship. I matured my thinking and learnt to be responsible for myself, which is a significant foundation for life. I was impressed with the Australian lifestyle which bonded with nature. Australians are half-Asian and they are friendly. Later when I worked at the Education Ministry, I also had an opportunity to establish vocational education collaboration between Australia and Thailand.” Professor Dr Pichai Taneerananon, an academic at the Department of Civil Engineering, Prince of Songkla University, and winner of Prime Minister Road Safety Awards 2010, was a Colombo Plan Scholarship student at the University of Western Australia in 1968-1972. He said that this scholarship changed his life. “It was not easy leaving home for an overseas adventure in the 1960s, but the Australian Government took good care of us. I remembered that they sent a black Commonwealth limousine to take us to meet with Australian families wishing to get to know Asians as there were not many Asians there in that time. The families, mostly elderly, were very kind to us.” “A message I want to pass on to Thai students is that studying abroad is a golden opportunity. You should be open-minded to both positive and negative things and learn from them,” he added. Assistant Professor Dr Preecha Teansomprasong, an academic at the Department of Applied Physics, King Mongkut’s Institute of Technology Ladkrabang, and a Colombo Plan Scholarship student at James Cook University during 1982-1985, still cherishes the kindness of his Australian host family. “I had dengue fever when I was there and the Australian family I lived with took very good care of me. We are still in contact nowadays and they also came to Thailand for volunteer works at hospitals and schools after their retirement”.
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AustChamThailand Advance
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Have a Beer on Us!
meet the board
AustCham Directors at Work This is the first in a series of articles that take a closer look at the ‘pilots’ of AustCham Thailand and their experience and motivation for sitting on the Board. In a Q & A session with Morning Talk’s Dr Valarie McKenzie, Directors discuss their vision for AustCham as well as what they do in their day to day business life. John Anderson AustCham President Portfolio: Regional Links Director, Meinhardt (Thailand) Ltd.
in that I have a committed group of Board members who are dedicated to making a difference for AustCham. We all want to see a business focus to service the many needs of all companies whether they be Thai, Australian or international with an Australian connection.”
A Director of Meinhardt (Thailand) Ltd., John has over 20 years’ experience working as a professional engineer and many years living in Thailand. As one of the company’s engineering team leaders, he has been responsible for engineering and design on a number of the largest projects handled by Meinhardt including: “The River”, Sukhothai Residences, Millennium Residence and Vietcom Bank Tower.
“Two vital aspects of serving our members is to provide them with quality information and to give them what they want, NOT what we think they want. To that end we are employing a market research officer with the objective of providing quality and relevant information.”
A specialist in the design of high rise buildings, steel structures and earthquake design, he says he joined the Chamber originally as a Board member in 2008 as he felt that in his profession, “always being in the back room” that he did not have enough exposure to the business world. “Originally, selfishly, I wanted to raise my own profile and also at the same time have more interaction with Australia, Australians and in particular Australian businesses.” As a Board member since 2007 and Vice President in 2010 he was elected as President in 2011.
Leigh Scott-Kemmis AustCham Director Portfolio: Treasurer Chairman, DBM (Thailand) Co., Ltd.
As President, what do you bring to AustCham? “I want to get AustCham back to business. I want to achieve progress for both Australians operating businesses here and Thai companies doing or wishing to do business with Australian companies – there is a lot to be done. We are just starting this journey.” “The social side of the Chamber will not be ignored but we had to ask ourselves ‘What is expected of a Foreign Chamber in Thailand?’. We have done that and we will respond accordingly. In the past we went from one social event to another – there seemed to be no time left for what we needed to provide to our members. Now we are all more focused and our office reflects the needs of the Board and its members.”
“Over this year there have been and are many challenges both for Thailand and for businesses in Thailand. My hope is that AustCham will be proactive, assist, and respond in many of the areas of concern involved with doing business in this country.”
With a financial background as CEO at Bank New Zealand, Director- Australian Bank and Treasurer at Citibank, it was only fitting that a career change into management consulting, career counselling was on the cards for Leigh who is well known as a ‘people’s person’. Chairman of DBM Thailand, Management Consultant and now Director of Potentia (Thailand) Co. Ltd., Leigh is an “old hand” when it comes to understanding the needs of Australian and Thai businesses. Why did you first decide to join the Board?
How have you prepared for the role of President?
“To be honest I was dragged along to stand for the committee – told there was need for an older grey haired Aussie who could assess what, if anything needed be done, or changed at the Chamber.”
“Advancing into the role of President, there has honestly been more to learn than I expected. There is always room for growth for both myself and the Chamber, though I am proud of the ground that has been covered this year. I am very lucky
“Firstly, office wise, improve the management and overall system to be more business focused. The real challenge I believe for AustCham is to find out why so few leading Australian corporations are not operating in Thailand. Manage-
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AustChamThailand Advance
meet the board
ment and the direction of the team at AustCham are now well placed and heading in the right direction. The subject of Australian companies NOT doing business in Thailand is still being assessed.” “We also have to ask the question why there are many Aussie CEO’s of international companies that are not members or active with AustCham. We are establishing a CEO Forum to address this need.”
in the audience who were able to put forward their views and suggestions from experience.” “We are already planning a follow up series as well as other relevant business events so that members and non-members can benefit from AustCham being the meeting point for quality and relevant information and dialogue on key business issues,” he concluded.
“Certainly Aussies are fun loving people and want to enjoy themselves socially. What we are doing as a committee is getting a more appropriate balance between business needs and the social activities.”
Jurairat Jammanee AustCham Director Portfolio: AustCham Ball Business Development Manager, HASSELL
David Bell AustCham Director Portfolio: Speakers & Talks Managing Director, Crestcom -Ra-Kahng Associates Ltd.
Khun Jurairat is a Business Development Manager at HASSELL in Thailand – a wholly owned, multi-disciplinary design firm based in Australia with offices around the region providing architecture, interior design planning and urban design that has represented the company at foreign chambers over the past eight years.
Having spent over 30 years in South East Asia and many of those in Thailand, David is the Managing Director of Crestcom Ra-Kahng Associates Ltd., specialising in management and leadership training. An advertising guru heading some of the top International advertising agencies in the region as well – as in New Zealand and a stint in London – David was first a member of AustCham in 1984. Away from Thailand for some 16 years he returned in early 2001 and has been new to the Board this year. Why did you stand for the Board and then choose to handle the ‘Speakers and Talks’ portfolio this year? “To be honest it never crossed my mind, despite the fact that I have always supported AustCham here and attended both social and business type events.” “It was John Anderson who suggested to me that I should stand, as in his opinion and others, the Chamber needed a new focus – on business.” “So what do I bring to AustCham? – We need to help businesses by holding events that are meaningful to the day to day issues we face in Thailand and current topical issues on which our members need advice and assistance as well as giving their own firsthand experience. We can all learn from each other.” “I will continue to arrange specific business focused events and bring relevant speakers to develop the business side of AustCham.” “Recently we had a session on Thai Floods – Responding and recovering. We had experts giving quality information to businesses affected by the floods or likely to be affected by the crisis that Thailand subsequently now faces as well as those AustChamThailand Advance
Why did you stand for the Board? “I wanted to work with a team where I can have Thai thoughts heard amongst foreigners and for them to get a better understanding about the way Thais think and operate. On the Board we have only a few Thais. We are a small group- not powerful enough yet, but it is important for our voices to be heard.’’ Khun Jurrairat would like to see Thai companies grow in membership numbers as many such companies have staff and managers who have been educated in Australia. She believes a business focus is paramount for AustCham and points out the way that the Chamber is developing specialised focus groups with specific needs and expertise, for example, the Manufacturing and Infrastructure group which has been developed most successfully. She would like the Chamber to develop more of these specialist groups which are more meaningful rather than generalising on business issues. For her first year on the Board Khun Jurairat worked with the Alumni and Community Services Committee and in her second term she has taken responsibility for fully coordinating the 2011 and 2012 annual Ball. Asked to tell us the theme for 2012 Ball, Khun Jurairat responded “it’s going to be The AustCham Diamond Ball.” She said AustCham would like to celebrate 60 years of diplomatic relationship between Australia and Thailand that’s why the subcommittee chose the “diamond” which represents a 60 year anniversary. The ball will be held sometime in May 2012, an exact date will be announced later. AustCham has now given sponsors the opportunity to show interest in this event! December 2011
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business brief
New APEC Card Rules
O
n 18 November 2011, the Minister for Immigration and Citizenship, Chris Bowen MP, announced the latest eligibility criteria for the APEC Business Travel Card. Under the new criteria an applicant must: 1. Demonstrate frequent travel for business purposes; 2. Be either a CEO, board member, regional/country head or owner/ director of a business entity; or an employee nominated by one of the above people in their business entity (except a board member); 3. Be employed by a registered business entity, or Australian-based peak business body, engaged in international trade or investment between APEC member economies which: • has been certified by an ‘approved body’; or • is identified in the current Forbes Global 2000 business list; or • has received an Export Market
Development Grant from Austrade during the previous five years; or • has been a national finalist in the Australian Export Awards (supported by Austrade and ACCI) during the previous five years; and 4. If an applicant resides outside Australia, they must also be authorised for residency and work purposes by the relevant immigration authority in the economy in which they reside. The new criteria will be implemented in two stages. Stage One commenced on 16 November 2011 and will enable applications to be lodged by applicants whose business does not require certification by an ‘approved body’ (ie. businesses listed in the Forbes Global 2000 business list, recipients of a grant under the Austrade Export Market Development Grants program or finalists in the Austrade Export Awards). During this stage, applicants whose businesses would require certifi-
cation by an ‘approved body’ may continue to be assessed under the current criteria. Stage Two, expected to commence in the coming months, will enable applications to be lodged by applicants whose business requires certification by an ‘approved body’ (likely to be an Australian peak business body). AustCham, through Australian Business Asia, continues to lobby for changes to criteria 3 and 4. Nonetheless, much of the success or otherwise of the new criteria will hinge on the ‘approved body’ certification process, including how quickly that can be put in place and its overall efficiency. More information about the APEC Business Travel Card and Australia’s eligibility arrangements can be found on the Department of Immigration and Citizenship’s website at www.immi.gov. au/skilled/business/apec.
members advancing
Air Australia Readies For Take Off
A
ustralia’s newest airline has revealed its new-look livery, flight attendant uniforms and a commitment to bring Australia a fresh approach to affordable air travel.
and makes it readily possible for families and Australians of all ages to have the chance to fly.”
The new-start airline which first took off as ‘Strategic Airlines’ in 2009 will retire its red, white and blue brand, former name and full service business model from 15 November 2011 to relaunch as a wholly Australian owned low cost carrier ‘Air Australia’.
Air Australia’s first green and gold jet has just entered the service. The airline will initially serve international leisure destinations Bali, Phuket and Honolulu and will continue to serve existing routes flown by Strategic Airlines. It will gradually transition its inflight product, website, uniforms and airport facilities from 15 November 2011.
“Simplicity, value, operational integrity, genuine fares and service are our promise and all that we believe many Australian travellers want in order to get safely and enjoyably from A to B,” said CEO Michael James.
The company has also been granted rights to operate services between Australia and China; and Australia and the USA and is in the process of doubling its pilot base and recruiting new flight attendants.
“Air Australia will avoid the massive product complexity of larger airlines as we do not want to be strapped down to charging our passengers ever higher fares to cover ever escalating costs,” he said.
This year it also opened its own engineering subsidiary company Strategic Engineering Australia Pty Ltd to service its Airbus fleet. The Brisbane based facility has to date employed 30 new licensed aircraft maintenance engineers.
“Many of our staff and advisors have extensive airline backgrounds and we
have seen it all before, we understand the challenges of the industry and we understand the market. We also believe that there is mounting nostalgia in the consumer market and in the industry for an airline which offers genuine value
For further information: Heather Jeffery 0426 719 219 hjeffery@flystrategic.com
Key Issues Dinner: Thailand’s Turning Point? on Wednesday 19 November at Westin Grand AustCham, together with the New Zealand-Thai Chamber of Commerce (NZTCC) held a Key Issues Dinner with renowned author and analyst of Thailand’s political environment, Dr Chris Baker. Dr Baker examined the results of the 3 July 2011 election which installed a new government in Thailand with strong majority support. With the army vowing to stay out of politics and demonstrators off the streets, he addressed the question of whether this is a turning point for Thailand or just an illusion – a temporary respite? Dr Baker is an engaging speaker with unparalleled knowledge of politics and economics in Thailand. The Chamber thanks Dr Baker for another truly thoughtprovoking presentation.
AustChamThailand Advance
December 2011
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Chamber Events
Eastern Seaboard Sundowners on Friday, 11 November at Hard Rock Hotel, Pattaya Strategic Airlines, now rebranded as Air Australia, hosted our November Eastern Seaboard Sundowners event with venue sponsor, Hard Rock Hotel. AustCham would like to thank them for their continued support of the Chamber and all those who attended.
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AustChamThailand Advance
Chamber Events New members and Members’ changes
Bhavana 39/16 Moo 6, T. Wichit, A. Muang Phuket 83000 Thailand Tel: +66 76 200 584 Fax: +66 76 200 484 Email: kai.goh@wppractice.com Website: www.bhavanaphuket.com
Chamber Representatives Mr Gavin Vongkusolkit - Managing Director Ms Patcharawan Kaengpol - Assistant Background: Bhavana came about from my observations in the last couple of years that addictions to drugs, alcohol, gambling, and yes, sex - were increasing on a vast scale throughout Asia. Gavin Vongkusolkit was born and raised in Singapore and has studied and practiced medicine in the U.K. specialising in addiction treatment. In the past few years, when returning home to Singapore, or visiting friends in Thailand and other spots in Asia, Gavin couldn’t help but notice that addiction was a growing problem here. He feels fortunate to be able to bring his years of treating a wide variety of drug addicts, alcoholics, gamblers, sex addicts, and people with a combination of addictions to creating the comprehensive treatment center - Bhavana. Bhavana is a safe place for healing, and provides the highest standard of care through an advanced, intergrated clinical and holistic treatment model. Gavin has personally selected a highly experienced, qualified and credentialed addiction team from leading treatment centers in the U.S. and U. K. to provide patients with treatment that gives them the best chance for recovery. Products or Services • Drug and alcohol rehab in peaceful resort surroundings • Treatment for chemical and process addictions • Individualised programs for addictions and co-existing disorders
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Baan Rimpa Restaurant Associates Ltd. 223 Prabaramee Road, T. Patong A. Kathu, Phuket 83150 Thailand Tel: +66 76 618 235 Fax: +66 76 618 239 Email: info@baanrimpa.com
Chamber Representatives Ms Susanne Ultmann - Executive Assistant Manager and Director of Marketing Communication Mr Chalermpol Na Nakorn - Managing Director
with its white décor against the sparkling blue ocean. The awards the restaurants have received in recent times include Wine Spectator Award of Excellence, Thailand Tatler Best Restaurants and HAPA (Hospitality Asia Platinum Awards). There are few restaurants who can boast so many years of continued success as the Baan Rim Pa group do. www.baanrimpa.com The restaurants work closely with the local community and were the initiators of Phuket Has Been Good To Us foundation which brings quality English language education to children in the Kings Schools in Kalim and Kamala. www. phukethasbeengoodtous.org
Field of Activity: Restaurant Background: In 1989 American born restaurateur, Thomas McNamara, came to Phuket with the aim of retiring after owning restaurants in the UK, New York, West Indies and the Bahamas. It wasn’t long before he relised the need for an upmarket Thai restaurant which is how the group was born. Tom passed away in November 2008 after a long illness and his legacy continues with the restaurants being run by his family and his Thai business partner Chalermpol NaNakorn who is the groups managing director. Baan Rim Pa Group is a well established group of award winning restaurants comprising three individual restaurants located next to each other on the rocky outcrop above the sparkling waters between Patong beach and the Bay of Kalim in Phuket. The guests mainly include tourists from around the world, but they are also a favourite of local business Thais and expats. Baan Rim Pa which features Royal Thai cuisine was the first in the group and was launched in March 1990. The restaurant has won numerous awards over the years both locally and internationally and continues today whilst playing host to guests from around the world who visit Phuket. Da Maurizio Bar Ristoranté with its contemporary Italian cuisine is in its 17th year has one of the most romantic locations in Phuket. Joe’s Downstairs features New World cuisine which is located between the two is totally unique
Fratelli Co., Ltd. 26 Sukhumvit 29, Sukhumvit Road Klongtoey-Nua, Wattana Bangkok 10110 Tel: +66 2 662 1001 Fax: +66 2 662 0085 Email: info@antoniosbkk.com Website: www.antoniosbkk.com
Chamber Representatives Mr Antonio Armenio Ms Belgis Mengana Field of Activity: Restaurant - Food and Beverage - Hospitality Background: Antonio Armenio is the youngest of five siblings, son of Francesco and Anna Maria Armenio. He was born in 1968 to Italian parents who emigrated to Adelaide, South Australia in 1965. He arrived to Thailand in 1992 and this has been home ever since. Antonio’s The Italian Experience was first established in 2004 and has remained as one of the premier Italian restaurants in Bangkok. Antonio has successfully operated and managed top establishments over the past 20 years and is no stranger to the service industry here in Thailand and around Asia.
AustChamThailand Advance
New members and Members’ changes
GLOWFISH 219/18, 6th Floor, Asoke Towers Soi Asoke, Sukhumvit 21 Road North Klongtoey, Wattana Bangkok 10110 Thailand Tel: +66 2 664 0895-7 Fax: +66 2 664 1515 Email: glowfish@glowfishbangkok.com Website: www.glowfishbangkok.com
Marriott Hotels & Resorts Thailand Luxury Hotels & Resorts (Thailand) Limited 4 Sukhumvit Road 2, Klongtoey Bangkok 10110 Tel: +66 2 656 7700 Fax: +66 2 656 9831 Email: bookmarriott@marriotthotels.com Website: www.marriottthailand.com
Chamber Representatives Mr Brad Edman Ms Anchalee Chamroontaneskul Chamber Representatives Mr Gavin Vongkusolkit - Managing Director Ms Patcharawan Kaengpol - Assistant Field of Activity: Business Services Event Organisation/Exhibitions - Serviced Offices Background: GLOWFISH is a boutique corporate function venue which can be utilised for a variety of corporate events, including, meetings, conferences, training workshops and promotional parties for companies, products or brands. Their strikingly decorated rooms are located in The Pride – Asoke Towers, Sukhumvit 21, within five minutes walking distance from Petchaburi MRT and 10 minutes from Asoke BTS stations. Products or Services: The promise of GLOWFISH is simple: you will pay less for better designed and better equipped meeting rooms. They are able to do this because they are a venue provider only, and do not combine food, beverage and service in packages. They have greater flexibility, as they are not attached to a specific set of providers. Prices are simple yet flexible and their rooms are comfortable yet stimulating. Ownership: GLOWFISH is a brand under ownership and management of Heritage Estates Co., Ltd. a private Thai investment company specialising in the real estate sector.
Field of Activity: Hospitality - Hotel - Serviced Apartments Background: Marriott Hotels & Resorts Thailand are under the name Luxury Hotels & Resorts (Thailand) Limited currently manages a portfolio of 14 properties in Thailand, spanning five brands, including JW Marriott Hotels & Resorts in the luxury tier; Marriott Hotels & Resorts and Renaissance Hotels Resorts in the upscale deluxe tier; Courtyard by Marriott in the upper moderate tier; and Marriott Executive Apartments in the extended-stay category. Products or Services Marriott properties in Thailand include: • JW Marriott Hotel Bangkok • JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort & Spa • JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa • Renaissance Bangkok Ratchaprasong Hotel • Renaissance Koh Samui Resort & Spa • Renaissance Phuket Resort & Spa • Courtyard by Marriott Bangkok • Courtyard by Marriott Hua Hin at Cha-am Beach • Courtyard by Marriott Phuket and Kamala Beach • Courtyard by Marriott Phuket at Patong Beach • Courtyard by Marriott Phuket at Surin Beach • Marriott Executive Apartments Mayfair – Bangkok • Marriott Executive Apartments Sathorn Vista – Bangkok • Marriott Executive Apartments Sukhumvit Park – Bangkok Senior Management • Area Director of Sales & Marketing – South East Asia: Mr Brad Edman • Director of Marketing Communications, Thailand: Ms Anchalee Cham-
AustChamThailand Advance
roontaneskul • Country Director of Human Resources, Thailand: Ms Panjit Howe
Individual Member
Mr Robert Menzies Robert is a commercially focussed finance executive who has worked across a range of industries both in Thailand and also across Asia, the South Pacific, Australia, Middle East and North Africa. He specialises in management accounting, business planning, budget development and management, financial modelling, systems selection and installation. Industry experience in aviation, retailing, consulting and IT, and specialising in airlines in the last 12 years. Recent projects have been in Papua New Guinea and Libya, working for the National airlines of each country. He is married and lives with his wife Robyn in Bangkok. Previously they lived in Bangkok from 1997-2002. Education: • MBA - Deakin University, Australia • CPA - Australian Society of CPA’s • Graduate Diploma Accounting - Victoria College • Graduate Diploma Management RMIT, Australia • Bachelor of Science Degree - Monash University
AustCham 2012 Membership After holding AustCham’s membership fee steady since 2007, the AustCham Board of Directors has decided to set 2012 membership at 18,000 Baht. The new fee responds to a changing marketplace and is necessary for AustCham’s viability into the future. As one of the most active and dynamic chambers of commerce, AustCham remains the best value-for-money chamber membership in Thailand. Further information will be provided in the lead-up to membership renewals in March 2012.
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Join AustCham’s Corporate Sponsors - receive unbeatable brand promotion and access to exclusive benefits. • A Baht 300,000 Gold Sponsorship package returns Baht 382,000 value! • A Baht 200,000 Silver Sponsorship package returns Baht 235,000 value! • A Baht 100,000 Bronze Sponsorship package returns Baht 112,00 value!
Contact the AustCham Office or visit our website for further details Australian-Thai Chamber of Commerce | 20th Floor, Unit 203, Thai CC Tower, 889 South Sathorn Road Yannawa, Sathorn, Bangkok 10120 Thailand Phone: +66 2 210 0216 | Email: execdirector@austchamthailand.com | Website: www.austchamthailand.com
SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITY
2012 Sponsorship Packages Available NOW!
AUSTCHAM Members’ offers
Coverage 20 Percent Discount on BCP Planning SARS, Tsunami, Bird Flu, Coup, Swine Flu, Riots, - what’s the next X for Thailand? What’s next for your business? Are you prepared? Coverage knows and understands all parts of your business and can help provide a plan, training and exercise for you and your staff in English and Thai. Andrew is offering a 20 per cent discount for all AustCham members. Offer Until: 31 December Call: 02 261 8485
Park Plaza Open Kitchen Cooking Class AustCham members can now enjoy a ten percent discount on our Thai Cooking Class! Choose a two or three course dish package and enjoy cooking in our interactive open kitchen. Offer Until: 31 March 2012 Call: 02 263 5000 Email: fb.bangkok@parkplaza.com
Radisson Suites Bangkok Sukhumvit Happy Hours at asqu “asqu” is a chic and sexy venue- the perfect place to have a relaxing cocktail
or enjoy a selection of wine and tapas. asqu offers two happy hours daily, with Boardroom happy hour from 18.00 to 19.00 and Night Owl happy hour from 22.00 to 23.00. Selected drinks are discounted at 30 percent and 50 percent. Offer Until: 31 December Call: 02 645 4999 Email: fb.sukhumvit@radisson.com
Strategic Migration Special Rates on Australian Visa Assistance Strategic Migration specialise in business and partner visa’s and can also assist other family members. In 20 years we have never lost an application. We offer a 10 percent discount to all AustCham members. Valid Until: 31 March 2012 Call: +66 2 231 8138 Email: ps@strategicmigration.com.au
Siam@Siam Design Hotel and Spa Mezzawine Membership Benefits Sign up Sign up for Mezzawine Membership at Siam @ Siam and receive great benefits including a 20 percent discount at all hotel food and beverage outlets, spa treatments and wine purchases. You will also receive free wine tasting for two guests, complementary cake and sparkling wine for when you hold a birthday or anniversary celebration at Siam @ Siam AND one night’s free accommodation. Offer Until: May 2012
Call: Khun Pongsak 081 8873978 Email: pongsak@siamatsiam.com
President Park Group Best Avaliable Rates Book through President Park Group’s websites and receive a 10 per cent discount on food and beverage outlets and 15 per cent at Ananda Spa at President Solitaire Hotel & Spa, Sukhumvit Soi 31. Please use the promotion code AUSTCHAM when booking. Avaliable at www.presidentpalacehotel.com, www.presidentsolitaire.com, www. grandpresident.com, www.royalpresident. com and www.presidentpark.com. Offer Until: January 31, 2012 Call: (662) 651 1200 Ext. 3451 Email: triplepplus@presidentparkgroup.com
Novotel Bangkok Fenix Ploenchit 15 Percent Discount on Dining and Accommodation Exclusively for AustCham members, Novotel Bangkok Fenix Ploenchit is offering a 15 percent off your food bill when you dine at The Square. We’ll also discount 15 percent when you book accommodation (Best unrestricted rate). Terms & conditions apply. Valid: 1 January – 30 April 2012 Call: 02 305 6000 Email: H7176-RE@accor.com
From the Chamber Office
Calendar of Events
Message from the Executive Director
C
ompared to many others, the corporate impact of the floods on AustCham has been relatively minor. Nonetheless, they have still dealt us a painful blow. Membership growth stalled as soon as the floods began to trickle down from the north, robbing us of expected revenue. And most of our plans for the final quarter of the year were disrupted in one way or another. Because of the floods we were forced to cancel a number of events, including our 2011 Business Awards. We had to reschedule a number of new and important initiatives, such as a major survey that will be the centrepiece of our study into Australian businesses and business people in Thailand. Our launch of a new AustralianAlumni website and database also had to be deferred. For several of our staff it was a major ordeal simply getting to the office (via boat, military truck and other means) so we operated on reduced staffing for much of November. The clean-up is still ahead, and will be enormously difficult. Floods notwithstanding, I am very pleased with what we have achieved this year. It was primarily a year of introspection, refocussing and preparing for the future – all driven by a renewed focus on the business environment. We have intentionally taken a long-term view. We have focussed effort on strengthening the fundamentals of the Chamber because we think a stronger Chamber will bring greater benefit to its members. Many of the changes we have put in place would not necessarily have been obvious, but there is no doubt they provide us with a strong platform from which to deliver more – and better – services to members. They will help us encourage an expanded role for Australian business in Thailand. The AustCham office will continue the transformation into 2012, particularly to unlock efficiencies. Some of this will involve more obvious change, such as a complete overhaul of our website and a review of the way we communicate with members. We will welcome two new staff in 2012. One will replace our Khun Intira (Bow) as Membership and Events Support Officer, while a new position will be responsible for business-focussed liaison with our members as well as overall research and monitoring of the commercial environment. In addition to our behind-the-scenes capability 30
December 2011
building, we also delivered a strong program of outputs and activity in 2011. We had a highly successful year of events, averaging more than one event per week and serving some 7,000 customers. We were proud to host the Australian Governor-General, Her Excellency Quentin Bryce AC, to open AustCham’s community services project at Wat Phutakian Kindergarten in Kanchanaburi. And we spearheaded our renewed focus on business through the establishment of a Manufacturers and Infrastructure Group and an alliance with a top-tier Australian consulting firm, AEC Group, to research the nature and extent of Australian business in Thailand. We also formalised an agreement with the Thai-Australian Association to jointly run the AustralianAlumni program, and for the first time brought together all of the Australian university representatives in Thailand under a single Alumni Council umbrella. We won a grant from the Australian Government for the AustralianAlumni initiative, which we intend to officially launch at a major event in early 2012.
MONDAY, 5 DECEMBER AustCham Office Closed
In lieu of H.M. The King of Thailand’s Birthday WEDNESDAY, 7 DECEMBER Christmas Sundowners
18.00 – 21.00 Venue: The Ambassador’s Residence Corporate Sponsor: dwp MONDAY, 12 DECEMBER AustCham Office Closed
In lieu of Constitution Day SATURDAY, 17 DECEMBER Voluntary English Teaching
Bus Departs from Thai CC Building at 8.00 Venue: Wat Phra Pathranporn Scool, Sri Ra Cha MONDAY 26 - SATURDAY 31 DECEMBER AustCham Office Closed
Thank you to all November sponsors:
Our AustCham Ball and AFL Grand Final celebration were again highlights of the year, between them attracting some 900 guests. Courtesy of Strategic Airlines we gave away four tickets to Australia, among the 220 other prizes available in AustCham charity raffles and door prizes. Our efforts contributed to more than Baht 1.3 million being raised for charity. The AustCham website received more than 3,000 visits each month during 2011, and we dispatched 166 e-news notices. There were at least 48 newspaper reports of AustCham’s activities in 2011. And an AustCham opinion-piece was published in the widely-respected broadsheet the Australian, which attracts a daily readership of more than 135,000. We published twelve issues of our own magazine, Advance, printing some 120,000 words and 60 business articles. It was a busy year. In closing I would like to wish everyone a happy and safe holiday season and I look forward to seeing you in 2012. Mark Carroll Executive Director, AustCham Thailand www.austchamthailand.com
As the year comes to an end, AustCham farewells one of their long-term staff members. Khun Intira Intrapitak (Bow) has been managing membership and general administration at the Chamber for five years now. She has been a valuable team member and displayed upmost professionalism in every aspect of her work. Many heartfelt thanks from the AustCham Thailand team Khun Bow! We wish you all the best in your future endeavours. AustChamThailand Advance