dtac aims to repeat 2021’s achievement of zero deaths and severe injuries of telecom tower climbers with “Mission Zero”, contributing to the company’s supply chain sustainability goals.
As dtac strives to expand its network to enhance customer experience nationwide, the extensive deployment of base stations means more technicians on the job. On any given day, an average of 80 technicians – called “tower climbers” – scale telecom towers up to 100 meters in height as part of their job to expand or maintain the network. Working at such heights is an occupational hazard with the risk of falling leading to possible severe injury or even death.
To maximize occupational safety and minimize risk and incidents, dtac requires all suppliers and partners for tower climbers to train and pass our tower climber course.
Prathet Tankuranun, Chief Technology Officer of dtac, noted, “As a network operator, we not only strive to expand our network to enhance the experience of our growing customer base but also ensure the safety of all telecom tower climbers. dtac’s Responsible Business mantra ensures that the health, safety, and well-being of all our employees and those in our supply chain are equally looked after.”
Focusing on enhancing customer experience, dtac fulfilled its target of expanding 5G to all 77 provinces of the country by the first half of 2022. Accelerated deployment on low-band continued, with 4,600 sites added in H1 for a total of approximately 17,800 base stations on the company’s 700 MHz spectrum. In addition, the number of 4G-2300MHz installed base stations under the company’s partnership with NT reached approximately 21,700 at the end of Q2/2022.
dtac’s Tower Climber Course focuses on the following safe climbing procedures:
A safety helmet must be properly worn at all times on site.
Only a properly applied climbing harness with both chest and back D-ring may be used on every climb.
Only long-sleeved shirts and full-length pants may be worn on a climb.
Electrical hazard safety footwear must be worn.
No persons at ground level are permitted within a 10-meter radius of the telecom tower while a climber is at work.
dtac Mission Zero places great importance on five key goals when working with suppliers and business partners:
1. Zero incidents resulting in death or severe injuries
2. Zero incidents causing grave pollution to the environment
3. Zero human rights violations
4. A hygienic and well-balanced work environment
5. Zero corruption.
dtac’s core activities require the company to work with a large number of suppliers, especially in network operations. It is thus vital to conduct risk assessments of our suppliers and provide them with training with the end goal of raising their standards at every tier.
In 2021, dtac has provided capacity-building training to 5,855 persons from 55 suppliers and exceeded its target of 3,500 training hours.
dtac believes connectivity is a powerful enabler and equalizer to drive meaningful changes in society. Based on our responsible business practices, we continue to innovate and improve our way of work to embrace change faster and better, promote resilience, and achieve sustainable growth.
TGJTA Thailand Gems & Jewelry Fair 2022 on September 1–4 is aiming to Push Thailand As Top Sourcing Destination Among Global Traders
The Thai Gem and Jewelry Traders Association (TGJTA) is launching “Thailand Gems & Jewelry Fair 2022” on September 1–4, 2022 at 7th floor, ICONSIAM.
It is the first gems and jewellery trade fair to be held in 2022 to provide entrepreneurs with opportunities to grow their gems and jewellery business domestically and internationally.
The event also aims to stabilize the future of Thailand’s gems and jewellery industry as well as optimise the country’s soft power as the craftsmanship is fundamentally an inherent profession and unique identity of Thais.
The Thai Gem and Jewelry Traders Association expects Thailand to be one of the world’s top sourcing destinations among global gems and jewellery traders thanks to the potential of Thais and the existing ecosystem.
Porntiva Niparin, president of the Thai Gem and Jewelry Traders Association, said “The Thai Gem and Jewelry Traders Association has around 2,000 member companies. It is the most established association with the largest number of juristic person members in Asean”.
The association originated from a collaboration between relevant stakeholders in the industry, including traders, entrepreneurs, jewellery makers and gem artisans, totalling around one million people.
They have shared commitment and determination to achieve exponential growth in gems and jewellery businesses throughout the supply chain over the past 60 years.
The association gives priority to localizing business strategies and development adjustments to align with evolving technologies.
” We set an ambitious target to move forward Thailand to become the most advocated sourcing destination in the global gems and jewellery industry so that Thailand will become the top-of-mind, preferred gems and jewellery sourcing destination in terms of both investment, manufacturing hub, gems and jewellery business opportunity marketplace, ” she added.
At this year’s event, visitors and participants will meet a host of international gems and jewellery manufacturers and gemstones suppliers and a wide range of premium gems and jewellery products that are created to meet diverse individual preferences such as colour stones or coloured gemstones, diamonds, gold and silver ornaments for wedding, auspicious occasions, daily wear or even for investment.
The event also features handicrafts and gemstone machinery and jewellery-making tools as well as a variety of packaging for a comprehensive ecosystem in manufacturing, sales and distribution of gems and jewellery products.
All gems and jewellery manufacturers who exhibit their products at the event are certified by the Thai Gem and Jewelry Traders Association, so customers are assured to enjoy spending on quality gems and jewellery products with confidence.
Thailand Gems & Jewelry Fair 2022 is the first gems and jewellery trade fair of the year. It will be carried out in a hybrid show format through the use of modern technology to enhance an immersive experience at the traditional trade fair.
The conventional trade fair is still maintained because a quality appraisal and analysis need to see the actual gems and jewellery products before making a business deal. The advantage of modern technology will serve as a bridge to connect manufacturers with traders and investors as it is a key factor to create an integrated Omni Channel to achieve the goal of sourcing destination development.
It is also an ambition of the Thai Gem and Jewelry Traders Association to create a more secure future for Thailand as Thais can sustainably grow their intrinsically indigenous profession as Thailand still has the potential and existing ecosystem for further development.
There are two main target customer groups: Business-to-Business (B2B) and Business-to-Customer (B2C).
In addition, the event is in collaboration with organizations in the public and private sectors including the Gems Jewelry and Precious Metal Confederation of Thailand (GJPCT), the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of Commerce, the Royal Thai Police and the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration.
In addition, there are special sub-events and activities to promote facilities and infrastructure development in the gems and jewellery industry as well as an activity to promote the use of reference values of diamonds in order to standardize and expand the domestic diamond market. Visitors to the event will receive a precious birthstone in order to create an impression among visitors for having a coloured gemstone meticulously produced by intricate Thai craftsmanship as Thais are the world’s top gemstone manufacturers. All visitors also stand a chance to win a two-tier prizes giveaway. First, visitors who make an advance registration will receive a birthstone and are eligible for participating in activities held at the event. Second, visitors are entitled to win two diamond rings and an iPhone 14 model.
The event is part of the future where all Thais can jointly build together. It is a sustainable future where Thais prosper with a potential industry using their own innovative craftsmanship.
People who are interested in attending the event to be part of the shining future can make an advance registration for entering the event and check for updated information and details at www.thaigemjewelry.or.th or visit the Facebook: Thai Gem and Jewelry Traders Association.
Members invited to bid on an exclusive package including two tickets to this one-off concert, drinks, a serene stay at Sheraton Hua Hin and complimentary breakfast
BANGKOK, THAILAND – Marriott Bonvoy, Marriott International’s award-winning travel program and marketplace, will bring even more memorable Moments to its members in Thailand this September, as it hosts an exclusive concert by Thai pop superstar J Jetrin at Sheraton Hua Hin Resort & Spa.
Fans of this popular singer-songwriter can enjoy an unforgettable night of high-energy music with a live performance at the resort’s Chandelier Ballroom. Having toured the USA, J Jetrin is now back to delight his many fans and followers in Thailand with this one-off show on 10th September 2022.
To celebrate this exciting event, Marriott Bonvoy Moments is inviting its members to bid for a special concert package at Sheraton Hua Hin Resort & Spa! This includes a one-night stay in the resort’s stunning Lagoon View Room, two tickets to the J Jetrin live show, including an opening performance by Sangrawee Live Band, plus two complimentary drinks at the event and breakfast the following morning. Bids start from just 35,000 points!
Perfect for couples and friends who love J Jetrinand want to combine their upbeat evening with a stylish seaside stay, this package is available for stays on 10th September 2022 only, checking out on 11th September.
The first Sandbox to be powered by 5G networks on 2600 MHz and 26 GHz. Students and devs are invited to create 5G Use Cases to support the digital economy
The Faculty of Engineering at Chulalongkorn University has partnered with AIS 5G since the initial trials of 5G in 2018 to the present.
They have launched an R&D 5G centre, the first ever “AIS 5G PLAY GROUND & 5G GARAGE” in Thailand in Chula Engineering’s Centennial Memorial Building.
Chula Engineering has installed a LIVE Private Network with 5G base stations on 2 frequencies: 2600 MHz and 26 GHz (mmWave), and other activities to support research into 5G innovation for both students and faculty. This support provided by industry will strengthen the country as a whole.
Wasit Wattanasap, Head of Nationwide Operation and Support Department at Advanced Info Service Pcl. (AIS), said at the launch of AIS 5G PLAY GROUND & 5G GARAGE, about cooperation with the Faculty of Engineering at Chulalongkorn University, “We are extremely honoured and proud to be involved in supporting education, providing spaces to develop readiness for students, developers and everybody involved in Thailand’s digital tech industries to have the chance for hands-on experimentation and develop their ideas with new technologies such as AI, ML, VR, AR, MR, IoT, Metaverse and Robotics, all on 5G.”
Although Thailand has had commercial 5G services since 2020, with AIS the first provider to launch the service on 1420 MHz, it is still necessary to develop the benefits of 5G to upgrade industry and infrastructure for the people.
Wasit Wattanasap
Digital transformation in particular will transform the business models of every sector to be ready to deal with the changes wrought by digital disruption and the outbreak of COVID-19.
Therefore, working with the education sector for the purposes of research and development, as well as trials and experimentation, has always been our top priority.
This cooperation with Chula Engineering from 2018 to the present is still ongoing through the development of different use cases, both from the research of the faculty and student projects. All of them are focused on innovating for the nation.
“The first ever AIS 5G PLAY GROUND & 5G GARAGE in Thailand, at Chula Engineering’s Centennial Memorial Building, has the goal of being a space for experimentation and trials of 5G in a LIVE Private Network environment. Students, faculty and developers in the 5G ecosystem can use the space and the unlimited 5G installed to study and test different technologies such as AI, ML, VR, AR, MR, IoT, Metaverse and Robotics. 5G base stations operating on 2600 MHz and 26 GHz (mmWave) have been installed to support a diversity of use cases including Industrial solutions, Holograms Solutions or Fixed Wireless Access (FWA). Spectral bands such as 26 GHz offer vast amounts of bandwidth with low latency. There is also support for transmitting equipment such as 5G CPE, providing know-how about 5G tech work structures. On top of this are seminars and workshops with guest speakers from many industries to develop technical skills in both hard skills and soft skills, and while inviting them to co-develop prototype services on 5G networks,” Wasit added
Prof. Supot Teachavorasinskun
Prof. Supot Teachavorasinskun, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering at Chulalongkorn University said, “Chula Engineering is a technically-focused educational institution working with every sector, including state organizations such as NBTC and DE, or the private sector, to test out use cases which could maximally benefit core sectors of the economy. Therefore, a developers’ environment for virtual reality such as AIS 5G Playground and 5G Garage provides 5G Spectra in a LIVE Network format to meet the needs of students and faculty as a space for research and exchanging ideas and creating innovations in the Sandbox. Crucially, it is a combining of theoretical and practical knowledge gained from real-use experience from AIS, which will enhance skills for students and faculty in developing innovations for Thailand through 5G in the most appropriate manner.”
Wasit concluded, “The educational sector prioritizes training and skills to support 5G technology, which is an admirable vision because 5G is the technology to level up capabilities in all kinds of different industries to drive the country productively. This is from its 3 basic properties: improved speeds, better connectivity of IoT, and more responsive and stable networks. A lot of education yields a lot of expertise, which can be adapted without having to follow the lead from foreign countries all the time, and AIS will be on hand to offer its full support.”
Use cases showcased at “AIS 5G PLAY GROUND & 5G GARAGE” @CHULAENGINEERING
1. WALKIE: A domestic service robot to do household chores and carry things which knows where everything is kept and walks around the rooms autonomously, giving responses in real time, which relies on 5G capabilities.
This project was submitted by EIC Chula and already won second place in the world at the RoboCup@Home Open Platform League.
2. Khai Muk: A home healthcare robot with many uses in TeleHealth.
The model on demonstration display is to train physiotherapy for Parkinson’s patients under medical supervision, enabling them to avoid hospital visits with accurate data tracking of the patient’s progress for doctors and physiotherapists through 5G capabilities.
3. Rehab: Universal Controller is a mechanical arm assisting stroke patients with muscular problems with efficient physiotherapy and comprehensive data tracking on 5G networks to ensure correct procedures.
The mechanical arm can also offload burdens for physiotherapists who then have the time to treat more patients.
4. Autonomous Shuttle Bus: An Autonomous Shuttle pod supported by the NBTC and the Broadcasting and Telecommunications Research and Development Fund (BTFP), powered by 5G driverless systems, and expected to be operational on real roads by the end of the year.
5. IntaniaVerse: Chula Engineering’s pioneering attempts to build a Metaverse for education, such as the power station at Thung Na Dam, and therapy for the elderly with virtual reality applications.
Now the AIS 5G PLAY GROUND & 5G GARAGE has been added. The program has now delivered a training course in building the Metaverse. Chula Engineering supports lifelong learning for all citizens, students and all interested parties with AIS part of this program.
The Royal Thai Embassy in the Hague, together with the Department of Agricultural Extension and the Queen Sirikit Department of Sericulture, have collaboratively organized the Exquisite Thai Fabrics Event on August 13, 2022 from 10.30am to 12.30pm at the Thailand Pavilion at the International Horticultural Expo (EXPO 2022 Floriade Almere).
The event aims to support the royal intention of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother in conserving traditional Thai textiles and promoting silk weaving careers for Thai people, said Mr. Kemkaeng Yutidhammadamrong, Director-General of the Department of Agricultural Extension.
This event also aims at celebrating the auspicious occasion of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother’s 90th Birthday Anniversary on August 12, 2022. Thai people in the Netherlands and nearby countries, as well as those with a plan to visit the EXPO 2022 Floriade Almere are kindly invited to wear traditional Thai textiles, when attending the event.
Director-General of the Department of Agricultural Extension also said that the event features a variety of activities to promote and publicize silk and mulberry products of Thailand with a premium quality and certified standards, namely the Commemoration Exhibition, a fashion show of traditional Thai textiles, a demonstration on silk production process, a photography activity with traditional Thai costumes at Sala Thai, video presentations on various topics, including the Queen of Silk, indigo dyeing, weaving of Praewa Kalasin Silk and a demonstration of silk-making workshop.
In addition, the Department of Agricultural Extension and the Queen Sirikit Department of Sericulture have collaboratively arranged an exhibition to dissimilate the traditional knowledge on Thai silk and mulberry products during the Thailand Week event. The exhibition comprises 4 zones of mulberry and silk products to demonstrate the development under the BCG Model and value addition through product standards, namely 1) natural dyed silk threads that are environmental-friendly 2) value added products from mulberry and silk, including mulberry leaf tea, mulberry juice, silk protein cosmetics hygienic mask from silk filament sheet, coffee filters from silk filament sheet, and silk filament sheet 3) 4 types of royally bestowed Peacock Brand silk (gold, silver, blue and green), Isaan Thai silk and silk cocoons, and 4) silk registered as a Geographical Indication (GI), including Chonnabot Mudmee Silk (Khon Kaen Province), Yok Dok Lamphun Silk (Lamphun Province), Mudmee Sin Tin Daeng Silk (Buriram Province), Kalasin Praewa Silk (Kalasin Province), Chok Mae Chaem Silk (Chiang Mai Province), and silk products, such as silk bags, silk shoes and silk blankets.
Director-General of the Department of Agricultural Extension added that tourists visiting the event have been fascinated with the demonstration of Thai arts and culture through unitedly dressing in Thai costumes and Thai silk by Thai people in the Netherlands who participated in the International Horticultural Expo (EXPO 2022 Floriade Almere). Apart from these activities, those who are interested can follow the updates on other interesting activities at the Thailand Pavilion on the Facebook of Department of Agricultural Extension and at https://www.thailandfloriade2022.com. This event will be available until October 9, 2022. Currently, the Thailand Pavilion has attracted more than 219,651 visitors (as of August 12, 2022).
The Dot Property Thailand Awards recognized 30 winners from across the Kingdom with leading developers Raimon Land, SC Asset and Major Development among those to be honored. Celebrations took place at the Park Hyatt Bangkok on August 18 as real estate industry leaders came together to commend the best of the best.
The Thailand real estate market is currently undergoing recovery and recalibration as it moves past the pandemic. This was evident at the sixth annual Dot Property Thailand Awards where the spotlight was placed on winners who are supporting both growth and the evolving needs of home seekers.
“One of the most interesting trends we saw this year is that people looking for property are increasingly end users who have a clear idea of what they want regardless of if they’re searching for a city condominium, suburban housing or real estate in holiday destinations,” Adam Sutcliffe, Dot Property Director, Events and International Markets, states. “This year’s Dot Property Thailand Awards winners have shown the ability to connect with home seekers and deliver projects and services that align with what the market is asking for.”
Raimon Land is a perfect example of these efforts. Residential projects, such as The Estelle Phrom Phong and Tait Sathorn 12, have demonstrated a mastery of Bangkok’s ultracompetitive luxury property market. Meanwhile, One City Centre has proven its credentials in the rapidly changing commercial sector. This outstanding work was celebrated when the firm was presented with the event’s most prestigious honor, Developer of the Year Thailand 2022, in addition to Best Developer Luxury Condominiums.
“Winning Developer of the Year 2022 and Best Developer Luxury Condominiums at the Dot Property Thailand Awards 2022 is an achievement we are extremely proud of. This is validation of our vision to strive and elevate new standards of modern living,” Korn Narongdej, Chief Executive Officer at Raimon Land, stated. “This award also symbolizes the hard work and dedication of everyone at Raimon Land who has contributed to our continued success.”
SC Asset continues to lead the way when it comes to housing with everyone taking note of its performance. The firm was named Best Developer Luxury Housing while Bangkok Boulevard Signature Chaengwattana was selected by the public as Thailand People’s Choice Award for Project of the Year 2022. This was the first time a housing development won the People’s Choice Award.
Developer of The Year Thailand 2022 Raimon Land
Thailand People’s Choice Award for Project of the Year 2022 Bangkok Boulevard Signature Chaengwattana from SC Asset
Dot Property Thailand Awards 2022 developer winners Developers from Bangkok, Phuket, Samui and the Eastern Seaboard were all honored at the Dot Property Thailand Awards 2022. Dynasty Group and LDR Group are repeat winners while the impressive performance of Garden Atlas Development this year saw it named Best Breakthrough Developer Phuket.
Best Developer Luxury Housing – SC Asset
Best Developer Luxury Condominiums – Raimon Land
Best Developer Koh Samui – LDR Group
Best Developer Phuket – Pearl Island Property
Best Developer Eastern Seaboard – Patta Group
Best Boutique Developer – Dynasty Group
Best Breakthrough Housing Developer – Fulcrum Ventures Asia Group
Best Breakthrough Developer Phuket – Garden Atlas Development
Best Mid Range Housing Developer Eastern Seaboard – Garden Ville Home & Property Company
Dot Property Thailand Awards 2022 project winners A number of standout projects were recognized at the Dot Property Thailand Awards 2022. One of the most notable winners was Villa Qabalah from DNA Collection which took home Best Green Villa Development Phuket.
Best Luxury Condominium Bangkok – Muniq Langsuan from Major Development
Best Ultra Luxury Residences Bangkok – Dusit Residences from Vimarn Suriya
Best Housing Development (New Launch) Bangkok – Panara Bangna-Suvarnabhumi from Fulcrum Ventures Asia Group
Best Green Development – Swan Lake Residence Khao Yai from Elysian Development
Best Villa Development Koh Samui – Santi Tara Villas from LDR Group
Best Mixed Use Development Koh Samui – Emerald Bay View from Premium Construction
Best Green Villa Development Phuket – Villa Qabalah from DNA Collection
Dot Property Thailand Awards 2022 design winners Design plays an important role in day-to-day living. Winners in these categories showed unmatched attention to detail and a willingness to think differently.
Best Luxury Villa Architectural Design Phuket – Garden Atlas from Garden Atlas Development
Best Condominium Architectural Design Phuket – The One Naiharn from The One Phuket
Best Residential Lifestyle Design Eastern Seaboard – Arom Jomtien from Colours Development
Best Condominium Architectural Design Chiang Mai – Le Chamonix Chiang Mai from Luxury Chiang Mai Land
Best Affordable Condominium Interior Design Eastern Seaboard – The Ivy Jomtien Beach from Daniel Binks Development
Special Recognition Awards for Architectural Design The Curve from DNA Square Limited
Thailand’s Best Real Estate Agencies 2022 Real estate agencies continue to be a vital link between property buyers and sellers while also providing other indispensable services that support a vibrant property sector. Celebrating their work is another aspect that makes the Dot Property Thailand Awards unique. A total of six companies were named as Thailand’s Best Real Estate Agencies 2022.
Citadel Real Estate
CMP Realty
NPP Realty & Consultants
PBRE Real Estate
SEA Property Group
Zupreme C&C (Thailand)
Festivities were once again held in-person after a special hybrid ceremony was organized in 2021 because of pandemic-related event restrictions. More than 250 of the real estate industry’s best and brightest were in attendance this year.
The Dot Property Thailand Awards 2022 would like to thank Savills Thailand and their CEO Robert Collins for serving as official Awards Consultants. A special mention also goes to official venue partner Park Hyatt Bangkok and VIP Transportation provider Mercedes-Benz Primus Autohaus for their continued support.
The Dot Property Southeast Asia Awards are scheduled for December in Bangkok. For more details on how you can take part, please email event@dotpropertygroup.com
We all yearn for a home and a sense of belonging. But it’s not so easy to find. Many may have a roof over their heads but lack the warmth of a safe home. Others may be surrounded by people but miss out on a nurturing community that brings out the best in them.
For Anek “Ped” Kaeopha, the 42-year-old owner of Numprig Baanchan, finding his true home and community has been a long and winding journey, involving a life of crime, time in prison, and redemption and an exciting new career.
Born in Bangkok, he grew up in a broken home in Bang Phlat Nai Community. He was first exposed to illicit drugs at the tender age of 10 when he had a job accompanying a sand truck driver from his neighbourhood to a sand yard in Bang Bua Thong. It was a job that paid just 2 baht per trip, and while riding in the truck, Anek saw the driver take amphetamine pills (nicknamed “pills for workaholics” in Thai). Anek was too young to realize back then that the pills were illegal and dangerous.
Anek himself became a drug abuser when he was in Mathayom 1 or the first year of secondary education. Impetuous, wild and filled with anger, he got carried away with bullying, stealing, sniffing glue and finally, persuaded by friends, taking methamphetamines.
Caught in a Vicious Cycle of Drugs
Anek became a drug peddler by the time he started Mathayom 2. At first, he just sold small amounts to his neighbours in order to pay for his own drug consumption. But during a long school break, he started working full-time as a drug dealer. Soon enough, he moved beyond peddling and started helping with moving drugs in bulk. By the age of 14, he was regularly using violence to get what he wanted.
His life of crime was interrupted when his first drug ring was busted. But even though he stopped selling drugs, he could not kick his own addiction. Anek went on to lead a gang of vocational students, and instead of attending class, his gang would gather and drink in front of schools. In the afternoons, they would jump on public buses and rob passengers together. The ill-gotten money was then spent on liquor and narcotics
Anek’s drug habit continued to spiral out of control. In 1997, a methamphetamine tablet was sold for just 25 baht, so he became addicted quite easily. His addiction was so unmanageable that he agreed to work for a drug trafficker. This association led to legal trouble eventually, and Anek was convicted of drug offences and spent two and a half years at Thonburi Remand Prison.
“When I was first imprisoned, I was so scared. I cried and lost all of my appetites,” Anek tells dtacblog.
After serving out his first jail term, he left prison intending to start a new life but soon discovered how difficult that would be. He started out selling steamed Chinese chive dumplings and noodles with fish balls, but rogue gangs who had heard about his notoriety approached him with offers of work. Anek finally took an offer from a gang to manage a long-distance van stand, where he would handle any problems the stand faced. And since van drivers also took “pills for workaholics”, Anek quickly started taking drugs again.
In and Out of Jail Six Times
In his younger years, Anek had a big reputation among gangsters, who admired him for his drug trafficking and violent encounters. His drug abuse, however, took a toll on his health. He became so emaciated that he caught the eye of the police. In a span of just 45 days, he was arrested three times, and eventually convicted of drug offences a second time.
“My second was not my last. I would end up serving five more jail terms on top of the many arrests. I could not count them all because after serving a jail term, I would be out for a month before going back in again. Repeated jail terms didn’t make me flinch anymore. I became accustomed to living inside prison. I was like the son of the Corrections Department,” Anek says in a joking voice, but his eyes reveal the weight of those dark times.
When Anek walked out of jail for the sixth time, after a nine-month term, he felt hopeless. He had nowhere to go – no home and no one to stand by his side. Everywhere he went, people threw water and hurled abuses at him.
“I didn’t really want to walk out of jail because I didn’t know where to turn. Inside the prison, I had a place to sleep and food to eat. But once I was outside, I would be all alone without money or family,” Anek recounts his desperation.
Finally, he decided to call the House of Blessing Foundation, a non-profit organization that helps former inmates reintegrate into society through vocational training and other support. After Anek’s initial phone call, the House of Blessing Foundation sent a car to pick him up from his old community.
“Have you eaten yet?” This was the first question Anek was asked by a member of the House of Blessing Foundation staff. It was a simple question, but to Anek, this rare gesture of care meant the world. No one had asked him that since his release. His old neighbours usually greeted him with, “How long before you’re back in jail this time?” His neighbours’ jabs made him feel worthless and tempted to return to drug dealers. But something shifted when he arrived at the House of Blessing Foundation.
No Looking Back, Only Forward
Although the foundation does not give its residents any money, it provides housing, food, and basic necessities. The foundation’s programs also offer vocational opportunities, which former inmates would normally rarely have access to. Best of all, Anek found a friendly community at the foundation, and seniors readily extended moral support and advice to him.
During Anek’s time at the foundation, his old boss from his drug-dealing days visited one day out of the blue and invited him to rejoin his old gang.
“To be frank, I was somewhat tempted. I had never turned down this man before. It would have taken just one step to reunite with him and my old life. But when I thought of my life in prison, the fierce competition to be a boss there, and the feeling of looking up at the sky without any future to look forward to, I was hesitant. I did not want to end up with that old life. I wanted to be independent,” Anek recalls with tears welling up in his eyes.
The foundation’s staff noticed what was happening and came forward to end the meeting. And just like that, Anek stayed and has been with the foundation ever since. Through the personal-development training offered here, he has learned how to resist temptation and cherish his freedom. Anek understands that a free man enjoys the freedom of thought and is free to design his own life.
New Opportunities Through the Online World
It has been more than 3 years since Anek joined the House of Blessing Foundation. During this period, he played a vital role in running the foundation’s Hero Cricket Farm. Initially, this farm operated inside a makeshift hut and sold crickets to workers at just 30 baht per bag. But after Anek joined the farm, its operations improved. Crickets are now fried and sold for added value. Anek’s efforts have helped the farm achieve the Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) standard, and he has even launched the Numprig Baanchan brand.
He explains that although crickets are considered an alternative protein source, selling crickets does not make business sense as people do not consume them on a daily basis. Processed food such as Thai chili paste, or numprig, with crickets, is more lucrative as it is a new product in the market and faces less competition.
Since capital was limited, the foundation staff advised him to set up an online presence rather than a physical store, which needs a higher investment. But online commerce isn’t easy either, requiring diverse digital and marketing skills.
“I could not sell any products online in the beginning,” Anek says. “But after dtac Net for Living stepped in, we got our own coach. We learned online-selling techniques such as product photography, interesting photo presentation, and setting up a Google Business Profile. And those techniques really work.”
Anek had an additional challenge at the foundation’s cricket farm project. His key responsibility was to pitch to donors and acquire additional funding for the farm. Many donors had detailed questions, such as “Why do crickets make that sound,” and “What do the sounds mean?” After his first pitch, he spent three full months studying cricket behaviour to ensure that people’s investments were worthwhile. Eventually, he was able to secure sufficient funding and achieve his goal of a Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) certified cricket farm.
It’s still early days for Numprig Baanchan, but as of now, the brand sells 100-200 cans of chilli paste per month. Some customers have even ordered them in big lots for reselling. The main distribution channel for Numprig Baanchan is an online platform developed with the help of dtac Net for Living. Thanks to dtac Net for Living’s coaches, the brand has successfully established an online presence.
When asked whether he is proud of himself today, Anek tells dtacblog, “I am super proud.” His voice choked with emotion, he continues, “I am always proud to be a part of this farm. I am very proud of my job.”
By turning down his old boss’s offer that day, Anek embarked on a new and purposeful journey. Despite the challenges of his personal- and business-development training – as well as the temptations of his old life – he has kept going and embraced opportunities offered by the foundation. For his next goal, Anek has drawn up a long-term plan to produce crickets for factories and to start exporting within the next three to five years. In the meantime, he has taught others how to raise crickets for a living.
“Thanks to the opportunities I’ve received, I realize the value of life and the kindness of humans. My lifestyle has changed completely,” Anek says. “As I no longer try to get everything I want, cursing and anger have disappeared. People in my old community now invite me to meals. I enjoy get-togethers with friends. I am accepted and recognized as the New Me.”
The Portugal Golden Visa Investment Seminar is coming to Bangkok on September 10 and 11. Secure your spot at the free event here or keep reading to learn more about the benefits of the Portugal golden visa program.
The Portugal golden visa program launched a decade ago, and it remains among the most popular options to this day. That’s because the scheme boasts a proven track record of success without some of the problems similar EU-based programs have encountered over the years.
There are many benefits to the Portugal golden visa program that make it a good opportunity for those in Thailand. Firstly, holding one allows you to live, work or study throughout all EU countries should you apply for citizenship after five years.
This makes it ideal for several groups. For starters, those with business interests in Europe can take advantage of visa-free entry to Portugal along with a visa exemption for travel through the Schengen Area. You will have the ability to work legally in Portugal during the first five years of the program with this being extended to the entire EU should you successfully apply for citizenship.
Family considerations are another benefit of the Portugal golden visa program. Dependent family members can obtain permanent Portuguese residency and/or citizenship. This means your partner will enjoy the same ease of travel benefits while children have access to EU schooling.
A recent change to the program now means you can be granted citizenship without needing to physically reside in Portugal for a long period each year.
Finally, there is the property investment aspect of the Portugal golden visa program. You aren’t simply purchasing real estate to acquire a visa. Several options are available that offer rental income generation potential.
For example, it’s possible to purchase a turnkey investment property throughout the Algarve as part of the Portugal golden visa program. These tap into the region’s popularity with visitors and have been designed with providing owners a return on investment.
Learn more about the benefits of the Portugal golden visa program
The Portugal Golden Visa Investment Seminar in Bangkok is the best place to learn more about these benefits. There will be several guest speakers during the event to provide insights and advice. You’ll hear about recent changes to the scheme and be treated to an exclusive preview of eligible investment properties. Legal and immigration consultation with international and local experts will also be available along with Thai, Mandarin, Cantonese and English-speaking agents.
A special discount of 10 percent will be provided for the first 10 units at the Portugal Golden Visa Investment Seminar in Bangkok as well. You can secure your golden visa with a down payment as little as EUR15,000 on the day.
Best of all, the Portugal Golden Visa Investment Seminar is free to attend. Advanced registration is required, however. It will take place at Grande Centre Point Terminal 21 on September 10 and 11. Parking is available, and the hotel can be reached from the BTS Asoke Station and MRT Sukhumvit Station. Click here to reserve your spot: https://contact.dotpropertygroup.com/portugal-golden-visa/
For more information, please contact Jade Chan from Dot Property at 065-512-9204 or jade@dotpropertygroup.com
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During the past 2-3 years, Thailand faced challenges brought about by the Covid-19 global health crisis. As the world evolved from this crisis, Thailand also needed to undergo a significant transformation in the education system, economy and society, and the fast-changing job and labour market.
In order to successfully make reforms in such industries as manufacturing, business, service, education, public health, public administration, etc., employers must look to recruit staff with new and special skills to tackle the latest technologies to effectively and efficiently drive their organizations.
ManpowerGroup Thailand, established in 1998, is underpinning its three major brand solutions: Manpower, Experis and Talent Solutions to provide a 360-degree service in recruiting permanent, temporary or contract basis talents; delivering impactful outsourcing solutions for all staff levels; visa and work permit professional employment service, payroll outsourcing and ‘outplacement’ program, which is specially designed for any employee who has to go through lay-off or sudden unemployment, among other services.
ManpowerGroup’s Manpower solution is the core of the group’s business and focuses on contingent and permanent recruitment. Experis solution delivers in-demand talent for mission-critical positions within IT, finance and engineering. Talent Solutions helps organizations address their complex workforce needs from talent attraction to acquisition to upskilling, development and retention.
“Through these three brand solutions, we connect people to meaningful work across a wide range of skills and industries and deliver total recruitment solutions including Sales & Marketing, Manufacturing, IT, Accounting and Finance, Customer Service, Medical and Health Service, Human Resources, among others. We use validated methodology and process to enable us to supply the skilled and quality people to meet our client’s needs,” Lilly Ngamtrakulpanit, Country Manager Thailand, ManpowerGroup.
ManpowerGroup Thailand is one of 75 offices of ManpowerGroup, the leading global workforce solutions company which helps organizations transform in a fast-changing world of work by sourcing, assessing, developing and managing the talent that enables them to win.
The Group develops innovative solutions for hundreds of thousands of organizations every year, providing them with skilled talents while finding meaningful, sustainable employment for millions of people across a wide range of industries and skills.
For more information, please check out www.manpowerthailand.com or call 02 171 2399; or email: recruitmentthailand@manpower.co.th; LINE OA: @manpowergroup.th; FB: manpowergroupThailand.
About ManpowerGroup Thailand
ManpowerGroup Thailand is a wholly owned subsidiary of ManpowerGroup. Established in March 1998, it is a leading provider of solutions and insights for a wide range of industries in Thailand. There is a total of 6 offices in Thailand: Silom, Sathorn, Bangna, Cholburi, Songkhla and Lampoon. The company provides an all-encompassing service including Executive Recruitment, Permanent Recruitment, Temporary & Contract Recruitment, Outsourcing, Payroll Outsourcing, Visa & Work Permit, Outplacement as well as Japanese Service.
ManpowerGroup® (NYSE: MAN), the leading global workforce solutions company, helps organizations transform in a fast-changing world of work by sourcing, assessing, developing and managing the talent that enables them to win. We develop innovative solutions for hundreds of thousands of organizations every year, providing them with skilled talent while finding meaningful, sustainable employment for millions of people across a wide range of industries and skills. Our expert family of brands – Manpower, Experis and Talent Solutions – creates substantially more value for candidates and clients across more than 75 countries and territories and has done so for over 70 years. We are recognized consistently for our diversity – as a best place to work for Women, Inclusion, Equality and Disability and in 2022 ManpowerGroup was named one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies for the 13th year – all confirming our position as the brand of choice for in-demand talent.
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