EEC joins hands with Huawei to prepare Thailand for digital future #SootinClaimon.Com

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EEC joins hands with Huawei to prepare Thailand for digital future

Mar 19. 2021

By THE NATION

The Eastern Economic Corridor Office (EECO) and Huawei signed a memorandum of understanding that aims to make Thailand a digital hub of the region besides producing a digital workforce to meet the country’s emerging needs. The digital talent collaboration in conjunction with Huawei Asean Academy (Thailand) EEC branch aims to groom 30,000 digital workers within the next three years.

The MoU signing ceremony was witnessed by Supattanapong Punmeechaow, Deputy Prime Minister for Economy and Minister of Energy, and Yang Xin, chargé d’affaires of the Embassy of China in Thailand, at Siam Kempinski Hotel in Bangkok.

Supattanapong Punmeechaow, DPM and Energy Minister

Supattanapong Punmeechaow, DPM and Energy Minister

Kanit Sangsubhan, EECO secretary-general and Abel Deng, CEO of Huawei Technologies (Thailand), signed the MoU.

“I am grateful to the EEC for cooperating with Huawei to contribute significantly to Thailand’s digital economy,” Supattanapong said.

“In addition to the MoU signing, I would also like to congratulate on the opening of the Huawei Asean Academy (Thailand) EEC branch in Chonburi. The four cooperation frameworks comprise: creating a knowledge base, experts and platforms; building an ecosystem that facilitates digital development; organising trainings to improve digital and 5G capacities; building a certification programme to create a standard for the target industries. This will significantly enable Thailand to move forward to Thailand 4.0,” the deputy PM said.

Kanit Sangsubhan, Secretary General of EEC Office

Kanit Sangsubhan, Secretary General of EEC Office

Yang said: “Despite the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic and the global economic downturn, we are very pleased to see that high-tech-led cooperation in digital economy and innovation is increasingly becoming an important new highlight of China-Thailand cooperation. In this process, Huawei has been deeply involved in Thailand for many years. It has made every effort to promote Thailand to become the first country in Southeast Asia to have commercial 5G services. Today, the Huawei Asean Academy (Thailand) EEC branch is officially established. We believe it will help cultivate more talented personnel in communications technology management and professional techniques in Thailand, help Thailand become a data centre in Southeast Asia, and create a new model of China-Thailand digital economy cooperation.”

In collaboration with Huawei, EEC aims to organise digital development courses for students and IT-related workers to train 6,000 people within 2021 and 30,000 in 2024.

“Today marks another key milestone in our efforts,” Kanit said. “The collaboration between EEC and Huawei through the Huawei Asean Academy (Thailand) EEC branch is going to combine forces which I believe would lead to digital transformation in all industries not only in Thailand but also in Asean to another level.”

Abel Deng, Huawei Thailand CEO

Abel Deng, Huawei Thailand CEO

Abel Deng, CEO of Huawei Thailand, thanked the EECO, adding, “Huawei believes that the key to drive digital development lies in an upskilled talent foundation. We will proactively enable Thailand to become the Asean digital hub through this MoU and the Huawei Asean Academy (Thailand) EEC branch. Together with the EECO, Burapha University, all our stakeholders and friends in the EEC, we are committed to fulfilling our mission of ‘Grow in Thailand, Contribute to Thailand’ by being a technology-leading and trusted ICT partner, proactive digital transformation enabler, and continuous social value contributor, bringing digital to every person, home and organisation, for a fully connected, intelligent Thailand!”

The MoU is seen as an important milestone for digital talent development in the EEC to support the use of 5G technology.

In 2020, Huawei helped organise digital training for government, enterprises, SMEs and startups for over 16,000 people.

Google launches phase 2 of project for Thai SMEs, economic recovery #SootinClaimon.Com

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Google launches phase 2 of project for Thai SMEs, economic recovery

Mar 11. 2021

By THE NATION

Google Thailand and the Commerce Ministry today launched phase two of their “Saphan Digital” project to boost equal access to the digital economy and services for all Thais.

The project aims to equip local businesses, NGOs and individuals with much-needed digital tools and skills. It was joined by two new partners – Baker McKenzie and Kasikornbank – who will share knowledge and experiences on legal issues and provide essential tools and financial support to SMEs, said Google.

Phase two of Saphan Digital will also feature the Startup School – a series of free, hands-on virtual courses for start-up founders and their teams who are looking for more tools and skills to pivot and scale their businesses. Interested start-ups can register for Startup School now.

Google also unveiled two new initiatives in partnership with the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) to support the country’s economic recovery. The first is “River Street View”, in partnership with Bangkok Riviera. Starting today, everyone can explore the scenery of temples, riverside communities, and bridges as seen from a boat at their fingertips. Meanwhile, the Tiew Roo Thai project with the Department of Fine Arts is showcasing cultural tourism through different perspectives of YouTube creators Bie The Ska, Point of View and I Roam Alone.

The Saphan Digital programme had trained over 8,000 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and individuals within the last six months, which has led to over 2,000 new websites created, said Apichaya Taechamahapun, head of Google Customer Solutions Thailand.

“For Saphan Digital Phase 2, there will be a total of 41 on-demand training courses available for SMEs and individuals who wish to enhance their digital skills free of charge. We set an ambitious goal to train 100,000 SMEs and individuals through phase two of Saphan Digital,” she added.

The Aspen Tree teams up with Muang Thai Life Assurance to offer ‘Elite Health’ programme #SootinClaimon.Com

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The Aspen Tree teams up with Muang Thai Life Assurance to offer ‘Elite Health’ programme

Mar 10. 2021

By THE NATION

The Aspen Tree, a residential community with lifetime care by Magnolia Quality Development Corporation Limited (MQDC), has joined forces with Muang Thai Life Assurance to offer “Elite Health” coverage for serious illnesses, common and infectious diseases, and accidents, the company said in a press release.

Residents will be able to enjoy instant coverage of up to Bt20 million per year after signing the contract during construction of the project, rising to Bt40 million/year once the project is completed and leasehold transferred. Coverage lasts up to 99 years of age to ensure “quality living at Thailand’s first holistic lifetime care and full-service community for older adults”, the statement said.

MQDC chief executice Visit Malaisirirat said The Aspen Tree is the country’s first and Asean’s “finest healthy living community with holistic lifetime care”. It’s a community for residents with long-term plans to ensure a healthy, fulfilling life ahead, complete with residences, facilities and service for residents 50 years and over, he said, adding that the project is part of The Forestias, a forested neighbourhood spanning 398 rai in Bang Na.

The Aspen Tree offers a full spectrum of services and preventive care combined with a health & wellness programme suitable for older adults that help promote physical, mental and brain health, the company said.

“In keeping with the focus on elderly, The Aspen Tree has collaborated with its world-class partner Baycrest Global Solutions, a global leader in residential living, healthcare, research, innovation and education, that has cared for older adults in Toronto, Canada, for over 100 years. Certified healthcare specialists ensure a high standard of care and services for older adults,” it said.

“Security is another key focus of The Aspen Tree. A high-tech security system covers all areas of the project to assure residents of their safety. The car-free community also dedicates 60 per cent of its common areas to beautiful green spaces. Residents can safely enjoy these lush gardens in a walkable district that reduces the risk of car accidents,” the statement said, adding that under The Aspen Tree’s “Ageing-in-Place” concept, residents can freely and safely enjoy their homes and surroundings, connected with nature and the community and with access to comprehensive healthcare.

“The Aspen Tree started construction in January 2020 and is set to be completed in the third quarter of 2023. The project focuses on lifetime care for residents to live happily and free from worry. To achieve this goal, The Aspen Tree is extremely proud to partner with Muang Thai Life Assurance as a leading Thai life and health insurance company,” Malaisirirat said.

Muang Thai President and CEO Sara Lamsam said the company is “delighted to partner with the project to deliver a unique experience for The Aspen Tree customers, with the Elite Health insurance plan offering superior coverage guaranteed by the Product of the Year Awards 2020”.

“It provides coverage for critical illnesses, general diseases and epidemics including accidents. It covers OPD benefits, including cancer treatment, MRI or CT scans. It also provides coverage for hospitalisation in an ICU room for up to 365 days according to the actual amount, and the coverage area is only in Thailand,” Sara said.

Apart from receiving the Elite Health insurance plan, The Aspen Tree customers are also entitled to “MTL Smile Service, Beyond Normal Coverage”, services that are designed to meet the needs of all lifestyles through service innovation and technologies including the MTL Click Application and MTL Health Buddy, the press statement said. Customers can also apply for Muang Thai Smile Club membership to receive privileges and participate in exclusive activities and campaigns, it added.

Huawei Technologies wins special PM’s award for its contribution to Thailand #SootinClaimon.Com

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Huawei Technologies wins special PM’s award for its contribution to Thailand

Mar 09. 2021Huawei Technologies (Thailand) CEO Abel Deng accepts the PM’s award from Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha in a ceremony at Government House recently.Huawei Technologies (Thailand) CEO Abel Deng accepts the PM’s award from Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha in a ceremony at Government House recently.

By THE NATION

Huawei Technologies (Thailand) was recently granted the prime minister’s award in the “Digital International Corporation of the Year” category for its contribution to Thai society since it arrived 21 years ago. It is the only private firm to win this award.

Abel Deng, CEO of Huawei Technologies (Thailand), accepted the award from Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha. Also present at the ceremony was Nuttapon Nimmanphatcharin, president/CEO of Digital Economy Promotion Agency (Depa).

While handing out the awards, Prayut commended the younger generation for applying digital technology creatively and leveraging innovation to create new businesses.

He added that the government places importance on 5G and artificial intelligence (AI) to help push Thailand forward, and hoped that university students will be inspired to use digital technology to create new business opportunities for the country.

“The PM’s Digital Awards recognise organisations whose products and solutions help drive digital technology and innovation development. The criteria for this distinction include excellence in development of digital technology that supports enterprises, services and society; application of digital technology that drives the economy, society, culture and security for Thais; an investment that creates jobs in Thailand; social and environmental development that support the local and international economy. Huawei received the highest scores,” Nuttapon said.

“Recently, Thailand’s first 5G Ecosystem Innovation Centre [5G EIC] was launched at Depa’s office, thanks to a collaboration between the Digital Economy and Society Ministry, Depa and Huawei. Our partnership with Huawei and our ability to leverage on 5G technology gives us an edge in enhancing our business competitiveness,” he added.

“At Huawei, we value long-term partnerships. We are committed to collaborating with customers and partners to help keep Thailand at the forefront of the digital age. With the mission of ‘Grow in Thailand, Contribute to Thailand’, Huawei reinforces its commitment to helping the country move forward to Thailand 4.0 and become a digital hub in the Asia Pacific region,” Deng said after receiving the award.

The success factors for Huawei’s success are:

For digital economy:

• Open Lab Bangkok: One-stop support to provide solutions for IoT, Big Data, and cloud computing, a verification platform, and ICT training services for customers and ICT industry entrepreneurs in Thailand and Southeast Asia

• 5G EEC Testbed: Established the first 5G Test Bed in Kasetsart University’s, Sri Racha campus.

• Thailand 5G Ecosystem Innovation Centre: Jointly established by Depa and Digital Economy and Society Ministry, the centre serves as a sandbox for SMEs, start-ups, developers, educational institutions to develop the digital innovations for 5G applications and services, incubate local digital talents and upgrade digital skills.

For social advancement

• AI solutions for state hospitals: AI-powered software was provided to Ramathibodi and Siriraj hospitals to help diagnose Covid-19 faster and boost efficiency in using 5G technology.

• Huawei Telemedicine Video Conference Solution for Public Health Ministry: Real-time teleconferencing system to help medical staff work without the risk of infection, like doctors conducting remote online consultations, and patients diagnosed, treated and monitored through their own smart devices.

• Unmanned 5G vehicles: Contactless delivery of medical goods within the hospital to reduce infection risks of frontline workers.

For human capital development:

• Huawei Asean Academy: Partnering with local businesses, technical and engineering schools to “produce 100,000 digital and tech-related workers within five years”.

• 5G courses: Topics such as 5G trends, commercial plans, 5G standards, use cases, business model ideas, etc, to promote multi-dimensional thinking

Huawei has also announced that more projects will be organised later this year to help Thailand strengthen its 5G ecosystem.

JKN to introduce Thailand’s first hemp-based health products #SootinClaimon.Com

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JKN to introduce Thailand’s first hemp-based health products

Mar 09. 2021

By The Nation

Anne Jakkrajutatip, Chief Executive Officer and the Managing Director of JKN Global Media Plc, is developing food supplements and healthy drinks made from hemp following the Thai government’s recent announcement in regulating hemp. JKN will partner with a renowned manufacturer DOD Biotech Plc to produce 10 hemp-based products. 

“JKN plans to introduce ten hemp-based products that include a variety of food supplements, instant tea, and coffee. They will be made available exclusively on digital TV channels and all JKN Shopping online platforms.” added Anne Jakrajutatip. In the past, JKN has been developing various food supplement brands such as C-Tria, Olig Fiber, V-Allin, and Fish Caps, in addition to a hair serum product called Hair Now. JKN’s expertise is in marketing and understanding consumer needs.

In addition, “JKN is partnered with DOD as the manufacturer and DOD is currently the only public listed company that has been approved by Thailand’s FDA. With JKN marketing expertise and distribution process, we would be able to maximize the market value of hemp products and secure sustainable growth in the future,” she said.

In anticipation of rising demands for hemp-related products in Thailand, JKN aims to become the one-stop manufacturer and distributor of health products made from hemp.

DIY your very own THAI croissant – at ground level #SootinClaimon.Com

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DIY your very own THAI croissant – at ground level

Mar 04. 2021

By The NationThose fluffy, plump croissants served in Thai Airways (THAI) flights are now available at street level.

The meticulously rolled and folded pastry – prepared by a former pastry chef from a Michelin restaurant – is made from flour and butter especially imported from France.

A plain croissant goes for Bt75, but diners can amuse their palates by adding a sauce or topping for Bt18 each. Sauces are on offer include coconut, dark chocolate and lemon curd while toppings include roasted coconut, almond slices, crushed macadamia, hazelnuts or cashew nuts.

You can get your hands on these croissants at the Puff and Pie pop-up café in the foyer of the THAI headquarters on Vibhavadi-Rangsit Road from Monday to Friday, 8am to 4pm, or at the THAI office on Silom Road daily from 7am to 2pm.

Delivery is also available. Call THAI headquarters between 9am and 2pm on weekdays at (090) 980 3795 and (090) 980 3798 or the Silom office from 7am to 1pm daily at

(090) 980 3808, (083) 097 8179.

Dow introduces first innovative thermal conductive gap filler in Thailand for assembly and output of EV batteries #SootinClaimon.Com

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Dow introduces first innovative thermal conductive gap filler in Thailand for assembly and output of EV batteries

Mar 04. 2021

By The Nation

Dow Thailand Group, a leading global materials science company, has launched the first silicone innovation for electric vehicle (EV) battery assembly in Thailand by offering high performance thermal conductive silicone DOWSIL™ TC-5515 LT. The product is among the latest technologies popular in the industry abroad. It helps break limitations in the electric vehicle industry by enhancing performance and extending the life of EV batteries, while reducing production costs from modifying workpieces. This innovative product in now ready for sale to entrepreneurs in Thailand.

Dow developed DOWSILTM TC-5515 LT, a high-performance and low-density thermal conductive gap filler for EV battery packs, to reduce the amount of carbon dioxide – a cause of global warming from fuel combustion. With the new product, Thailand automotive battery manufacturers are prepared to meet critical needs presented by the worldwide EV market. The product performs reliably and is applicable to automatic production for EV battery assembly. The product features include, though are not limited to:

• Thermal conductive for heat dissipation

• Low density for light weight requirement

• Resistance to thermal shock (-40°C to 125°C) aging

• Resistance to high temperature and humidity aging

• UL 94V0 flammability standard

• Providing stress relief during the assembly process

It is also reworkable and leaves no strains when removed; therefore, it can reduce the cost of modifying workpieces.

Dr. Taninchote Lertpongkijja, Dow Thailand Consumer Solutions Marketing Manager, said, “Efficient thermal management is critical for EV battery safety and lifespan. Direct thermal conduction, such as a liquid cooling system, is one of the most effective ways to carry heat away from the EV battery. Dow’s comprehensive and efficient silicone solutions not only help manufacturers troubleshoot challenges, but also bring great benefits to the development of EV and mobility industries.” Dr. Lertpongkijja adds, “Especially among new products, DOWSIL™ TC-5515 LT Low Density Thermal Gap Filler is trusted among leading EV producers. Now, we are delivering this latest innovation to Thailand’s local EV battery manufacturers.”

More features and technical information for DOWSIL™ TC-5515 LT Thermal Gap Filler, the innovative high-performance silicone for EV batteries, can be found at: https://www.dow.com/en-us/pdp.dowsil-tc-5515-lt-low-density-thermal-conductive-gap-filler.498806z.html

BJC Big C Foundation donated 3.65 Tons of Rice to support Camillian Home for Children Living with Disabilities #SootinClaimon.Com

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BJC Big C Foundation donated 3.65 Tons of Rice to support Camillian Home for Children Living with Disabilities

Mar 02. 2021

By The Nation

BJC Big C Foundation led byAswin Techajareonvikul Executive Vice President of BJC Big C Foundation and Chief Executive Officer & President of BJC Big C Group recently donated 3.65 tons of Rice to support Camillian Home for Children Living with Disabilities, Lat Krabang, as well as to distribute to communities in need. The ceremony was presided over by H.E. Lorenzo Galanti, Ambassador of Italy to the Kingdom of Thailand with Father Anusorn Nilkhet, Director of Camillian Homeat Embassy of Italy in Bangkok, CRC Tower All Seasons Place.

Labour Ministry, Huawei launch academy to enhance Thailand’s digital workforce #SootinClaimon.Com

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Labour Ministry, Huawei launch academy to enhance Thailand’s digital workforce

Feb 22. 2021Gracing the occasion were Prof Dr. Narumon Pinyosinwat (center), Deputy Labour Minister, ML Puntarik Smiti (5th right), Advisor to the Deputy Minister, Mr. Pairoj Chotikasatien (4th left), Deputy Permanent Secretary of Labour, Mr Thawat Benchatikul (5th left), Director-General of Department of Skill Development, Mr. Chakrit Decha (3rd left), Ms. Jiraporn Punyarit (2nd left), Ms. Darunee Nithitaweekul (left), Deputy Director-General of the Department of Skill Development, Mr. Prateep Songlumyong (right), Inspector-General of Ministry of Labour, Mr. Thavorn Chalassathien (3rd right), Vice Chairman of The Federation of Thai Industries and Mr. Edison Cheng (4th right), Director of Public Affair and Communication - Huawei Technologies (Thailand) Co., Ltd., who came to the Ministry of Labor to show their solid support for the projects.Gracing the occasion were Prof Dr. Narumon Pinyosinwat (center), Deputy Labour Minister, ML Puntarik Smiti (5th right), Advisor to the Deputy Minister, Mr. Pairoj Chotikasatien (4th left), Deputy Permanent Secretary of Labour, Mr Thawat Benchatikul (5th left), Director-General of Department of Skill Development, Mr. Chakrit Decha (3rd left), Ms. Jiraporn Punyarit (2nd left), Ms. Darunee Nithitaweekul (left), Deputy Director-General of the Department of Skill Development, Mr. Prateep Songlumyong (right), Inspector-General of Ministry of Labour, Mr. Thavorn Chalassathien (3rd right), Vice Chairman of The Federation of Thai Industries and Mr. Edison Cheng (4th right), Director of Public Affair and Communication – Huawei Technologies (Thailand) Co., Ltd., who came to the Ministry of Labor to show their solid support for the projects.

By The Nation

The Labour Ministry held the “Building Thailand Digital Workforce” event to launch Digital Skill Development Academy (DISDA), which will oversee the development of digital skills among the country’s workforce.

As part of its launch, DISDA also held its first seminar, “Enhance Business and Industry with Digital Technology Skill Development”, in collaboration with Huawei Technologies (Thailand). The aim of this seminar was to share knowledge with more than 100 business operators on the latest in IT technology as well as exchange views on the demand for digital workforce development.

The event was held in response to Thailand’s serious need to build a skilled workforce as S-curve industries are being developed in line with the government’s Industry 4.0 policy.

The Labour Ministry is also introducing a series of initiatives to ensure the country can meet the needs of the labour market in the near future, which will bring down the unemployment rate and boost the standard of living.

Deputy Labour Minister Prof Dr Narumon Pinyosinwat said the academy will provide digital skills training programmes and courses to young Thais who want to enter the digital workplace.

“The ministry is joining hands with the private sector to help build a healthy digital labour ecosystem through on-the-job training to drive the country’s Digital Thailand policy. With rising demand from S-curve industries, the ministry is ready to support the national strategy by prioritising digital labour development to make Thailand a fully digital society.”

Courses will be provided by top industry experts who will share their expertise to prepare young professionals to become part of the digital economy. Workshops, specialised training courses and leadership seminars will be added to the curriculum to encourage young minds to generate new ideas and launch digital projects.

Also launched at the event was the Department of Skill Development’s new app, which makes the department’s services easily accessible. The app’s key features include training courses, labour-skill standards, e-certificate or diploma, information on the Skill Development Promotion Act, newsroom, contacts, FAQs etc. The app can be downloaded and will soon be available on Huawei Mobile Service’s App Gallery.

Narumon said that now Thailand is undergoing digital transformation, it needs a workforce that is prepared to serve a digital ecosystem.

“We want to fuel the tech world with a workforce that is creative, innovative and inspired. Partnering with industry movers such as Huawei will ensure that we are producing industry-ready talent through programs aligned with the needs of the industry,” she explained. “Our strategy is to support digital workforce development, whether it is through centres of learning such as DISDA, or seminars for targeted audience groups. Developing skills will also improve the employability of young people and ensure Thailand’s readiness for a digital economy.”

DISDA’s first seminar on skill development was organised exclusively for technical professionals from the Federation of Thai Industries and the Thai Chamber of Commerce. Experts from Huawei Thailand were at hand to present the latest technology, trends and products in the ICT world.

At the seminar Varaporn Pangboonyanon, deputy director of the AP Learning Service Department, explained how 5G will have an impact on the government’s Industry 4.0 and play a role in the country’s development.

Prayuth Tungsangob, Huawei’s chief technology officer, discussed the topic of providing enterprise solutions for industrial transformation, and explained how advanced connectivity can change the digital landscape.

Chawansit Rongthong, senior solution architect from Huawei Cloud, shared thoughts on how Huawei’s Cloud solutions can help businesses and industries accelerate modernisation.

GSB’s new loan scheme for SMEs hits Bt10 billion limit in three days #SootinClaimon.Com

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GSB’s new loan scheme for SMEs hits Bt10 billion limit in three days

Feb 22. 2021

By THE NATION

The Government Savings Bank (GSB) has launched a new loan campaign in which small and medium businesses (SMEs) in tourism and related industries affected by the Covid-19 outbreak can use their land title deed as collateral for loans.

The campaign had been approved by the Cabinet on February 15 as part of a plan to revive the tourism industry after the Covid-19 fallout.

“The campaign started on February 18 and so far over 1,500 entrepreneurs have applied for loans,” bank president Withai Ratanakorn said on Monday.

“The loan budget of Bt10 billion has already been requested by the registrants, so we decided to close registration via the website www.gsb.or.th until further notice.”

Withai added that the registration only lets applicants state the amount they wished to borrow while no approval had been granted yet.

“The bank would now consider each applicant and would only grant loans to those who were in eligible industries as well as present a valid collateral,” he said. “If the bank has leftover budget from the first round of consideration, we will later open registration for the second round.”