A newly published expert review of real-world data demonstrates that AstraZeneca’s vaccine and mRNA COVID-19 vaccines provide equally effective protection against hospitalisation and death following two doses.

The review, published by Expert Review of Vaccines, a monthly peer-reviewed medical journal, looks at the effectiveness of the world’s most-used COVID-19 vaccines from 79 real-world studies. 

The data shows that both the AstraZeneca vaccine, a viral vector vaccine, and ‘mRNA’ COVID-19 vaccines, offer equivalent protection against hospitalisation (91.3%-92.5%) and death (91.4%-93.3%) regardless of age, with no statistical difference between them.1 While data available at the time of review relates to Delta and earlier variants, available statistics indicate similar findings on serious COVID-19 outcomes resulting from Omicron.

Professor Guy Thwaites, Director of the Oxford Clinical Research Unit in Vietnam and one of the study’s authors, said: “The data reveals how the world’s most widely used vaccines protect people against the very worst outcomes from COVID-19. With the virus set to have a significant global impact for the foreseeable future, the new data serves as important information for the region’s policymakers as they put strategic plans in place for the continued protection of their populations.”
 

Mr James Teague, president of AstraZeneca (Thailand) Company Limited, said: “Vaccines have been crucial in saving lives and enabling countries in Southeast Asia to move from the most critical phase of the pandemic towards living with COVID-19. As governments consider the implications of the virus becoming endemic, the published data provides reassuring evidence that the ability of AstraZeneca’s COVID-19 vaccine, and the available mRNA vaccines, in preventing people from being hospitalised or dying is equivalent.” 

The data, reviewed by infectious disease experts from across Asia, comes from VIEW-hub, an interactive platform for visualizing global data on vaccine use and impact developed by Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health and the International Vaccine Access Center. The platform is updated on a weekly basis to include global real-world studies on vaccine effectiveness. The 79 real-world studies reviewed included comparative effectiveness data for AstraZeneca’s vaccine and mRNA vaccines, specifically BNT162b2 and mRNA-1273. The VIEW-hub platform is not currently designed to capture the safety outcomes of these studies, preventing similar safety comparisons.

AstraZeneca’s vaccine is a ‘viral vector’ vaccine, which means a version of a virus that cannot cause disease is used as part of the vaccine, so if the body is exposed to the real virus later it is able to fight it.  This vaccine technology has been used by scientists over the past 40 years to fight other infectious diseases such as the flu, Zika, Ebola and HIV.

AstraZeneca and its global partners have released over 3 billion vaccine doses to more than 180 countries, and approximately two-thirds of these doses have been delivered to low- and lower-middle income countries. Based on model outcomes assessing COVID-19, the AstraZeneca vaccine is estimated to have helped save over 6 million lives between 08 December 2020 and 08 December 2021. 
 

Published : July 15, 2022

By : THE NATION

#SootinClaimon.Com : ขอบคุณแหล่งข้อมูล : หนังสือพิมพ์ The Nation.

https://www.nationthailand.com/business/40017726

The launch comes with a full promotion and complete after-sales service before bringing the flagship innovations to Thailand.

Mr. William Wang, HONOR South East Asia Region Sales Head, revealed the return to Thailand of the HONOR brand with “GO BEYOND” concept that “We are back with the confidence to go further and bring superior innovation to consumers in Thailand. Three HONOR X Series smartphones, including HONOR X9, X8 and X7, stand out in innovative chipsets, screens, and batteries, which meet the needs of all users at a great value. Together with the cooperation with professional partners like SYNNEX who takes care of the full service both before and after the sale, we are confident that HONOR will deliver a superior experience for Thai people.”

Ms. Sutida Mongkolsuthree, Chief Executive Officer at Synnex Thailand Public Company Limited, said that “HONOR is a brand with potential and strong growth driven by outstanding innovation and assured quality. SYNNEX is very pleased to represent the HONOR brand to take care of all sales channels and full service under the Trusted by Synnex logo. We are ready to provide after-sales service, whether it is 11 service centres throughout Thailand, hotline service, as well as door-to-door repair service.”

HONOR announces the launch of three models of HONOR X Series smartphones with Android operating system and pre-installed with GMS (Google Mobile Service). They are: HONOR X9, HONOR X8 and HONOR X7, that come with the most innovative. All models are equipped with the Snapdragon 680 chipset, 6nm chipset technology that is fast, powerful and energy-efficient, along with HONOR RAM Turbo technology, an innovative RAM optimization innovation that gives you 2GB of additional space. This makes the HONOR X Series smartphones powerful and functional in every model. Each model also has a different identity such as: 

HONOR X9, Innovation of perfection

The model is fully equipped with all functions, from a 6.81-inch screen with a resolution of FHD+, ready to support a refresh rate of up to 90Hz that makes the picture beautiful and smooth. The screen-to-body ratio is up to 94%, helping to expand every viewing angle.

Take great photos with the front and back cameras with 4 rear cameras in Quad Camera format that provide resolutions up to 64MP that makes capturing vivid moments with a photographic algorithm optimized for every situation. This is also along with capturing a wide range of details with the Ultra-Wide Angle camera that has a resolution of 8MP and even more detailed with close-up shots that see even the pollen with a macro lens camera. There is also a fun selfie front camera with 16MP clarity.

HONOR X9 also comes with HONOR SuperCharge 66W, fast charging technology that makes every hassle simple, reducing the worry of using life. HONOR SuperCharge lets you fill the battery capacity to 50% in 15 minutes and 81% in 30 minutes. It also meets the needs of heavy smartphone users with a 4800mAh battery.

HONOR X8, Innovation that comes with design

The model is distinguished by a sleek design that is only 7.45 mm thin and weighs only 177 grams. The body has a rounded shape made of high-strength aluminum alloy. It comes with a sharp 6.7-inch screen, FHD + HONOR FullView Display, providing vivid and smooth images at a refresh rate of up to 90Hz.
    

You can take more pictures in any situation with the four cameras offering a maximum resolution of 64MP, resulting in very sharp images. Even multiple zooms stay clear with the 64MP main camera. Expand your horizons with the 5MP wide-angle camera and the crystal-clear 16MP selfie camera.

HONOR X7, Innovation of strength that must be tried

The 6.74″ HONOR FullView Display puts a cinematic experience right in the palm of your hand. It’s also smoother with a refresh rate of up to 90Hz, powered by Snapdragon® 680 6nm processor, 6nm chipset technology, and super-fast and enjoyable HONOR RAM Turbo technology. By selecting all the strength technologies, the HONOR X7 is powerful, fast and energy efficient.

Even cheap games should not be missed, but the camera line is still alive with the innovation of 4 cameras, resolutions up to 48MP, with a 5MP ultra-wide lens camera, a 2MP macro camera and a 2MP bokeh camera. It can be said that this camera can support all formulas in all activities. But no matter how much time you enjoy, you can rest assured that the HONOR X7 comes with a large 5000 mAh battery that gives you up to 20 hours of online video playback and HONOR SuperCharge 22.5W fast charging technology.

Details of products and promotions of the HONOR X Series are available in Thailand.

HONOR X9 (8+128GB) is available in two colours, Midnight Black and Titanium Silver, priced at 9,299.

HONOR X8 (6 + 128GB) is available in 3 colours: Ocean Blue, Midnight Black and Titanium Silver at a price of 7,999.

HONOR X7 (4+128GB) is available in 3 colours: Ocean Blue, Midnight Black and Titanium Silver for 6,299.
Start selling HONOR X Series for the first day on July 27, 2022.

Special promotions when pre-booking HONOR X9, HONOR X8 and HONOR X7 with dealers through online channels from July 12 to July 26, 2022 with benefits totalling up to 5,499 baht. 

–    When booking HONOR X9, get a free S-GEAR HDMI+PD+VGA+USB Converter, valued at 899 baht.

–    When booking HONOR X8 or HONOR X7, get a free S-GEAR Cable 3-in-1 charger, valued at 359 baht.

Regardless of which model of HONOR X Series is booked, you can be assured of full quality with the HONOR X Privilege Card with benefits worth 4,600 baht, which include 90-day cracked screen insurance and the right to receive free-of-charge maintenance for 2 years (for service fee only). Customers can receive the HONOR X Series from 27 July 2022 onwards.

For more information, please visit Facebook: HONORThailand, IG: HONORThailand, Line OA: @SynnexThailand or SYNNEX CARE call 1251 press 1.

Published : July 14, 2022

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https://www.nationthailand.com/pr-news/business/40017691

Launches Performance Cycling, fun ride and good health

Dane Cantwell, Country Managing Director at Jetts 24 Hour Fitness (Thailand), said, “Jetts Fitness is open 24 hours and constantly conducting research studies on customer behaviour. It makes us have an in-depth understanding of gym goers’ needs. Most fitness enthusiasts want to take their fitness experience to the next level. They look for inspiration to exercise to achieve their goals. Some people aim to have better health and better personality but some people want to optimize their cognitive brain functioning and mental wellness.

“There is an international research found that after COVID-19 restrictions have been relaxed in many countries, more than half of people in Vietnam (64%), Philippines (61%), and Thailand (56%) want to take better care of themselves so they are engaging more and more with fitness and eating better to live a healthier life. The research revealed that the fitness industry is being triggered by COVID-fatigued consumers who have missed social interaction and motivation from in-person classes. The demand for fitness increases, therefore we must enhance our capabilities and services to meet the needs and expectations of our customers.”

Jetts Black on the 3rd floor of The PARQ Rama IV has Performance Cycling which has stationary bicycles to help exercisers decrease stress but still provide an excellent aerobic workout. Performance Cycling is an efficient and effective way to improve personality, optimize cognitive brain functioning. Indoor cycling is an excellent workout option for burning calories quickly to help exercisers reach their fitness or weight loss goals. It can burns calories and body fat while strengthening legs and also can lead to slimmer legs.

Jetts Black is decorated in dramatic black tone with modern interior design, offers 1,600 square meters of exercise space, studio, playground and cafe. The playground was specially designed for all functional trainings such as group classes and high quality functional fitness equipment with world-class services to serve members. We also maintain cleanliness and operate the highlight hygiene at all times.

Those who are not convenient to access to Jetts Black, The PARQ Rama IV, you can access other 38 clubs both within and outside Bangkok at an affordable price and without lock-in contract, open daily from 06:00 a.m. – 00:00 a.m. Jetts 24 Hour Fitness is the first choice of gym goers who looks for goal-centric gym experiences for active lifestyles after having to endure life during the lockdown for a long time. We provide members workouts that are both fun and fit an exercise routine into their daily life.

Published : July 13, 2022

By : THE NATION

#SootinClaimon.Com : ขอบคุณแหล่งข้อมูล : หนังสือพิมพ์ The Nation.

https://www.nationthailand.com/business/40017626

Department of Medical Services is poised to improve health care services by implementing “the New Normal of Medical Services,” utilising technology and making it more accessible to help upgrade government health care institutions and hospitals, according to an academic conference.

Satit Pitutacha, deputy minister of the Public Health Ministry, gave the keynote speech at the 80th Academic Conference recently held at the Centara Grand Hotel. His speech was themed, “Improving Thai Medicine for Public Service: New Normal Medical Services.”

Satit said although COVID-19 will become an endemic disease, more needs to be done to support ongoing care and services for both Covid-19 patients and other patients. Therefore, it is a critical mission of the ministry to follow its concept “Public health creates a nation, recovers economy, and builds a new better way of public health in 2022.”

As a result, the New Normal of Medical Services, in which people are at the centre, will help improve the medical field. Patients must receive equitable and high-quality care in either normal circumstances or when an emerging disease occurs. Both service providers and recipients must be safe.

Satit added the Department of Medicine is tasked with seven major areas spanning over the next decade:

1. Modify the service model to be safe from Covid-19 by encouraging the prudent use of high-quality modern technology.

2. Enhancing the hospital’s capacity to serve all patients in a VIP manner that is convenient, safe, and modern.

3. Integrate holistic health care for the elderly with network partners and three local doctors in the community.

4. Develop the potential of the service by extending the 30 baht scheme that “treatment everywhere, no need for a referral certificate”.

5. Improve cancer treatment so that the cure can be found anywhere with access to comprehensive care such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy.

6. Develop an international medical cannabis research facility; and 7. Create information technology systems to establish a public health information centre.

With all of these components in place, the country’s healthcare system will advance, resulting in a stronger economic recovery and healthy people, according to the department.

Since the Department of Medical Services is aware that the country’s health system is facing challenges and changes, including emerging diseases in the future, Dr Somsak Akksilp, Director-General of the Department of Medical Services, added medical personnel must be prepared to deal with such changes.

By improving and transforming the work processes and mindset that drive and implement healthcare system policies, people will undoubtedly receive quality, standard, and seamless care in accordance with the “Do the Best for All Lives” guidelines, as well as achieve the country’s main public health goal of “Healthy people, Happy Officers, Sustain Health System”, he said.

The Department of Medicine hosted this academic meeting under the theme “Do the best for all life: Do our best for all” to encourage the exchange of knowledge and work experiences among medical and public health personnel.

The meeting’s outcomes are expected to aid in the development of standardized quality in the medical field, as well as the continuation of research studies using modern innovation and technology.

Published : July 12, 2022

#SootinClaimon.Com : ขอบคุณแหล่งข้อมูล : หนังสือพิมพ์ The Nation.

https://www.nationthailand.com/business/40017604

Guest Chef Bruno Menard, a 3-star Michelin chef, takes over Azure restaurant for one night only in July when he will present a very special set menu.

After spending more than two decades in Asia and another 15 years in Europe and the United States. Chef Bruno truly brings a world of culinary experience to every dish. And if you’re wondering how respected he is in his native France, how’s this: he even has a street named after him – Rue Bruno Menard – in the city of Saint Cyr Sur Loire.

In creating each dish for Azure, the chef has combined his extensive French culinary background (his father is a top chocolatier in France) with Japanese flavours and techniques learned while he helmed the 3-star French restaurant L’Osier in Tokyo.

On Friday July 22, the chef’s artistry will be evident in every detail, from his careful choice of ingredients to each imaginative dish presentation. Among menu highlights guests can look forward to are Poached Cod with Creamy Clam Sauce and Chives Coulis; Caviar on Salmon Confit, Asparagus and Chantilly Sauce; as well as a spectacular finale: Floating Island with Benedictine Vanilla Ice Cream.

Chef Bruno invites all diners to experience his distinctive culinary style.

THB 3,490++ per person for food only 
THB 990++ with wine pairing

IHG® One Rewards members receive a 20% discount. 

Please reserve your seats in advance at Azure restaurant for this special one-time-only event on Friday, July 22 2022. Dinner service begins at 6.00 p.m. 

Please contact us for more information.
Tel:     +66 (0) 32 616 999 
Email:     ichhdining@ihg.com 

Published : July 11, 2022

#SootinClaimon.Com : ขอบคุณแหล่งข้อมูล : หนังสือพิมพ์ The Nation.

https://www.nationthailand.com/pr-news/business/40017537

PMG Corporation, in collaboration with governmental sector, private sector and financial institutions, organized the special event with over 200 booths of best business franchises to provide smart solutions for SME, loans for business expansion, and seminar forums on occupational knowledge, know-how and training.

The ‘Smart SME EXPO 2022’ event was held with purpose to turn crisis to be the good chance for careers, entrepreneurs, new business set-up and update of business trend for more success. It is a HYBRID EXPO offering the full options both on-site and on-line, organized during July 7-10, 2022 at Hall 7-8 of Impact Muang Thong Thani. The exhibition is expected to drive occupational inspiration for general public and strengthen the SME business sector. Cash flow over 400 million baht and loans from financial institutions not less than 2,000 million baht are expected to be generated in this event.

Mr Sinit Lertkrai, Deputy Minister of Commerce and chairman for Smart SME EXPO 2022, stated “Covid-19 epidemic and the downturn of trading sector are bringing severe effect to the economic situation in Thailand. Organization of finance and business events in this year is a great chance and hope that Thailand economics will get better gradually. It’s very appreciative for the organizers presenting altogether the best SME and various corporations in approach to current situation. This year, the Ministry of Commerce, by the Department of Business Development, also proposed the well-trained and smart SME businesses, with objective to bring the challenging opportunity for entrepreneurs and enforce Thailand economic growth and sustainability onwards.”

Mr Vichate Tantiwanich, President of PMG Corporation, organizer of Smart SME EXPO  2022, stated “This exhibition is held once a year and this time is the 8th event. This year is also the 20th anniversary of PMG Corporation. With a vision for Thailand SME, the company established the fund ‘Chee Chong Ruay’ for occupation opportunities, in collaboration with ‘Chee Chong Ruay’ media channels, successful entrepreneurs and the Right-Livelihood Foundation, sharing partial profit to set-up the fund for occupations for unemployed people, such as single mothers and underprivileged people. The career skills and equipment are provided for them to increase earnings.”

In the event ‘Smart SME EXPO 2022’, you will experience distinguished and impressive 5 business zones: interesting franchise businesses zone, food & beverage zone, financial institutions and sponsors zone, beauty & health zone, and innovation & technology zone. Over 200 booths of the business franchises are presented for the investment options ranging from thousand to million baht. Participating businesses include Mr.Tempu, KangFu Shabu, SomTam Nua Nua, ChaNom Am Tea, Look Chin Yuen Kin Jae Pong, KraPrao KhaoTa, Yumyua by pukeeprick, Sushi Champion, HANA lifestyle franchise, Jae Nui MhooKrob, M&G stationery shop, DUCK GROUP vending machine, SABUY TECH, Dada RuamSaap, 24hrs Coffee, MaeNate KhanomKrok Singapore, Pang Kon Thong, LE MONG Ramen, SWEET SECRET, KAIKAO, etc.

Moreover, 40 franchise businesses under support of the Department of Business Development, Ministry of Commerce, also participated in this EXPO, such as Pang-ai-ya, See U Waffle, Olino Crepe & Tea, Sainom’s, Papa pizza, Egg All Day, SriFah bakery, Toro fries, TiewRua yutya noodle, Nigiwai Sushi, HongTeh Pedyang Hiso, Indy noodle, Korean-Japanese food, Big Tokyo crepe, Rosboran Station, Chalawan milk tea, Mhee Puan Nom Pun, Shibachan Pang Twist, Rrabica Ezan coffee, Chob Cha, Wonder Wash, SHIPPOP, BEST Express. 
Famous street food vendors are also present, such as Minimelts (Thailand) ice creme, Farang PadThai, Meeyang Gaoloo, YangHom Mai La Saen, Coffman Coffee, Cake Jew, Ka La Luem Phua, Cocoa I Ton, and over 2,000 vending locations in Tesco Lotus Department Store in all regions are the options for you to set-up the business branches.

The low-interest loans from banks are also offered for entrepreneurs and vendors, including loans from the Government Saving Bank (GSB), SME D Bank, EXIM Bank, Bank for Agriculture and Agricultural Cooperatives (BAAC) and Government Housing Bank (GHB). Business can also meet with financial counsellor team from Thai Credit Guarantee Corporation for loan consulting.

“Although Covid-19 situation is still ongoing, business development and life must go on. We hope this event would help promote career opportunities and new business entrepreneurs with over 400 million baht cash flow and not less than 2,000 baht loans,” Mr Vichate concluded.

If you are seeking new franchises, careers and challenging opportunities, do not miss this specular event “Smart SME EXPO 2022” at Hall 7-8, Impact Muang Thong Thani, during July 7-10, 2022.

Register on-line via https://expo.smartsme.co.th/register/2022/ or attend online event via https:// virtual.smartsme.co.th/ For further information, contact 086-314-1482 or Smart SME EXPO social media channels.
 

Published : July 09, 2022

By : THE NATION

#SootinClaimon.Com : ขอบคุณแหล่งข้อมูล : หนังสือพิมพ์ The Nation.

https://www.nationthailand.com/pr-news/business/40017468

New collaboration to offer internships and training opportunities for young people studying for a B.B.A. in Hotel Management, initially at 20 Marriott International hotels in Bangkok

BANGKOK, THAILAND – Marriott International today announced the signing of an important Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Silpakorn University Faculty of Management Science (SUMS) to provide practical experience, professional training and potential career opportunities to the next generation of hospitality graduates in Thailand.

Penned at a ceremony in Bangkok on June 28, 2022, this MoU will initially see 20 Marriott International hotels in Bangkok offer internships for promising students on theBachelor of Business Administration in Hotel Management, provided by the Faculty of Management Science (SUMS). This will open the door to a world of possibilities, with students potentially having the chance to join the Marriott family upon graduation.

Under the terms of the agreement, Marriott will enable students to gain international-standard training and hands-on experience at its hotels in the third and fourth years of their course. If a student spends 300 hours with Marriott in their third year (April-June) and 800 hours in their fourth year (June-November), they will receive course credits. With options to work in a range of departments, including front office, food & beverage, housekeeping and more, these internships will equip young people with the practical skills they need to enter the workplace with confidence. 

Being guided by Marriott will also give the students an important head-start in their professional lives. As the world’s largest hotel group with more than 8,000 properties under 30 leading brands spanning 139 countries and territories worldwide, graduates have a global network of potential career paths ahead of them, made even more accessible by gaining practical experience with Marriott.

This arrangement will not only benefit the students, however; it will also have a positive impact on Thailand’s entire hospitality industry at a critical time. With almost 2.5 million new hotel rooms currently in the pipeline worldwide¹, it is vital that hotel groups attract young people to find their vocation in the industry. For Marriott, this partnership with SUIC has the potential to attract high quality graduates for many years to come. 

“We are delighted to sign this MoU with Silpakorn University’s Faculty of Management Science (SUMS). At Marriott International, our core value is to put people first andwe are committed to nurturing young talent and helping local people to grow and advance with us. With Marriott, there is no barrier to progress. We have clear development paths and programs that enable graduates and entry-level team members to rise through the ranks and become senior executives. This is embedded in our company’s DNA and I am very happy to create opportunities for a new generation of Thai hospitality graduates. This will become hugely significant as we continue to grow our footprint here in Thailand and around the world,” said Andrew P. Newmark, Vice President Human Resources – Asia Pacific excluding Greater China, Marriott International.

Marriott already has internship partnerships in Thailand, with approximately 40 students currently gaining work experience at its hotels in Bangkok. Under the latest MoU, students can transfer credits between their university course and Marriott’s own in-house training, and credits earned by the students while learning with Marriott could help them achieve an additional Associate Members’ Educational Qualification at SUIC. Marriott’s hotels will now become the first priority for SUIC’s internship selection process.

Following the initial launch of the partnership with 20 Marriott International hotels in Bangkok, the MoU could be expanded to properties in Pattaya, Rayong and Hua Hin in future.

To learn more about Marriott International, please visit www.marriott.com. 

Marriott properties initially participating in the MoU include:

1.    Aloft Bangkok – Sukhumvit 11
2.    Bangkok Marriott Hotel Sukhumvit
3.    Marriott Executive Apartments Bangkok, Sukhumvit Thonglor
4.    Bangkok Marriott Hotel The Surawongse
5.    Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park
6.    Courtyard by Marriott Bangkok  
7.    JW Marriott Hotel Bangkok
8.    Le Méridien Bangkok
9.    Le Méridien Suvarnabhumi, Bangkok Golf Resort & Spa
10.    Mayfair, Bangkok – Marriott Executive Apartments
11.    Sathorn Vista, Bangkok – Marriott Executive Apartments
12.    Sukhumvit Park, Bangkok – Marriott Executive Apartments 
13.    Renaissance Bangkok Ratchaprasong Hotel
14.    Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel & Towers
15.    Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Bangkok
16.    The Athenee Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Bangkok
17.    The St. Regis Bangkok
18.    The Westin Grande Sukhumvit, Bangkok
19.    W Bangkok
20.    Courtyard by Marriott Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport

Reference:

¹ https://str.com/press-release/americas-and-asia-pacific-regions-show-increased-hotel-pipeline-activity
 

Published : July 07, 2022

By : THE NATION

#SootinClaimon.Com : ขอบคุณแหล่งข้อมูล : หนังสือพิมพ์ The Nation.

https://www.nationthailand.com/pr-news/business/40017467

July 7, 2022, Bangkok: The Rockefeller Foundation, in close consultation with Thailand International Cooperation Agency (TICA) of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA), announced a new collaboration with Mahidol University to enhance and strengthen the work performed by medical, public health, and nutrition professionals across several Asian countries.

With $105,000 in new funding The Rockefeller Foundation will support Mahidol University experts to provide training to medical technology, maternal health and nutrition professionals in ASEAN countries.    

Along with this project, Mahidol University is currently implementing two other programs in collaboration with The Rockefeller Foundation focused on strengthening genomic surveillance facilities and capacity building for measuring diet quality. In total, the Foundation has supported the University with grants amounting to $2.2 millionin recent years. 

Following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Mahidol University on Capacity Building for Medical and Health Science Education Hub in August 2021, the current project announced between The Rockefeller Foundation and Mahidol University is inspired by TICA, Thailand’s primary governmental entity administering the country’s international development cooperation.
 

Mrs Ureerat Chareontoh, Director-General of TICA, noted, “with its mission in enhancing partnerships for development towards achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), TICA has prioritized its cooperation into four security areas, namely employment, food, environmental and energy, as well as health. The MFA-MU MoU is one of the development collaboration initiatives in response to the aforementioned health security policy. The project focuses on strengthening capacity building and human resource development for medical personnel of Mahidol University in order to provide better services for Thai people and stronger platforms for the transfer of knowledge and expertise to other developing countries.”

TICA’s priorities match closely with those of The Rockefeller Foundation, and this recent collaboration with Mahidol University helps in expanding the reach of the ongoing projects in the areas of public health and nutrition to advance the impact of this shared mission of overall development.

Speaking about this new collaboration, Deepali Khanna, Vice President, Asia, The Rockefeller Foundation said, “Over the years, The Rockefeller Foundation has partnered with Mahidol University on multiple occasions as the University demonstrates continued leadership in medical and scientific research in Asia. With Thailand’s deep investment, history and technology, we are thrilled to support the efforts of Mahidol University and TICA to expand their work in strengthening and creating centres of excellence and institutional building.”

President of Mahidol University, Banchong Mahaisavariya, said, “Mahidol University has set our goals in bridging the gap between knowledge accumulation and knowledge translation to the society. With the support of The Rockefeller Foundation and TICA, we have joined forces in taking the leadership role regionally and globally in fostering health-related networks in response to the pandemic, healthcare services and skill upgrades, food and nutrition centre of excellence and communities of practice in local communities so on. Mahidol University continues to leverage our key resources toecho the learning application for the benefit of mankind.”

The Foundation has two projects in the spheres of public health and nutrition underway with Mahidol University. Through The Rockefeller Foundation’s Pandemic Preventive Institute, which aims to revolutionize the way the world approaches pandemic preparedness harnessing the use of data and technology, the Mahidol University Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Genomics and Evolutionary Medicine (GEM) received a $1.2 million grant in 2021. As a result, the University’s genomic surveillance team has successfully reduced the duration of genomic sequencing of COVID-19 variants from over a month to less than a week, and The GEM team has also expanded its support to other ASEAN genomic surveillance teams, improving their ability to detect and respond to COVID-19 variants and other emerging viral threats and the region’s overall pandemic response capacity.

Mahidol University is also working with the Foundation to fight the double burden of malnutrition (under and over- nutrition existing simultaneously) in the Global South by using a Global Diet Quality Score (GDQS) standard to understand the quality of food in the geography. The $500,000 in funding will help the University build capacity of nutritional professionals to conduct large-scale population surveys using the GDQS to scale up dietary quality and nutritional biomarkers in the population. 

Published : July 07, 2022

By : THE NATION

#SootinClaimon.Com : ขอบคุณแหล่งข้อมูล : หนังสือพิมพ์ The Nation.

https://www.nationthailand.com/business/40017452

Electricity Generating Public Company Limited or EGCO Group kicks off the construction and successfully enters into financial agreements of “EGCO Cogeneration SPP Replacement” power project with a net capacity of 74 MW.        

The project will enhance the Company’s business growth in the country, support industrial users’ activities as well as promote efficient fuel consumption which partly strengthen the country’s power security.                 

Mr. Thepparat Theppitak, President of EGCO Group, said, “EGCO Group has emphasized its solid foundation in power business by introducing the new development of “EGCO Cogeneration SPP Replacement” project in Rayong province with a net capacity of 74 MW.

The project has recently entered into the financial agreements with three banks with the funding amount of approximately 2,700 million baht. Those banks are Bangkok Bank Public Company Limited, Government Savings Bank, and Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (Thai) Public Company Limited. The total investment is approximately 3,600 million baht. The project has started the construction activities since May 2022 and is scheduled to start commercial operation in January 2024.”

The “EGCO Cogeneration SPP Replacement” project, owned by EGCO 80% and J-Power Holdings (Thailand) Co., Ltd. 20%, will be located at the site adjacent to the existing EGCO Cogeneration power plant in Rayong Industrial Park, Map Kha Sub-district, Nikhom Pattana District, Rayong Province. It will replace the existing power plant after its PPA expires in 2024.

The new facility is driven by gas-fired cogeneration system with the latest and advanced technology which will help improve the energy utilization efficiency and be environmentally friendly. The new facility will sell electricity to EGAT under a 25-year PPA for SPP replacement scheme while the rest of the electricity output and stream from electricity generating process will be sold to the industrial users in the Rayong Industrial Park and nearby area. 

“According to EGCO Group’s expertise in power generation, the new power plant will supply reliable electricity and stream to serve the demand of industrial users in order to support Thailand’s economic growth and contribute to the national energy security. Furthermore, the power plant’s latest and advanced technology will promote operational efficiency and reduce carbon emissions which is in line with EGCO Group’s “Cleaner, Smarter and Stronger to Drive Sustainable Growth” business direction,” concluded Mr. Thepparat.

About EGCO Group

EGCO Group has currently a total equity contracted capacity of 5,959 MWe which a total equity contracted capacity from renewable energy is as high as 1,364 MWe including biomass, hydropower, solar power, wind power, geothermal power, and fuel cells. EGCO Group’s power plants are located in eight countries, namely Thailand, Lao PDR, Philippines, Indonesia, Australia, South Korea, Taiwan and USA.

In addition, it has energy-related businesses, including Oil Pipeline Extension to the northeastern region project and EGCO Rayong Industrial Estate Project, the shipper license to source and supply LNG in Thailand, a financial technology company (“Peer Power”), an innovation research and development company (“Innopower”), and a clean energy development company (“Apex Clean Energy Holdings”).     For more information about EGCO Group, please visit our website at http://www.egco.com and our official facebook at http://www.facebook.com/EGCOGroup.  

Published : July 07, 2022

#SootinClaimon.Com : ขอบคุณแหล่งข้อมูล : หนังสือพิมพ์ The Nation.

https://www.nationthailand.com/pr-news/business/40017445

Thai Bankers’ Association (TBA) highlights the prominent role of commercial banks in supporting international trade and the aim to upgrade trade transactions between Thailand and Saudi Arabia with 2 projects that will improve competitiveness of Thai importers and exporters.

Payong Srivanich, the chairman of the Thai Bankers’ Association (TBA), gave an overview of the development of Thailand’s financial facilities and services at the Thai-Saudi Business Forum, attended by over 200 Thai and Saudi businesspeople, at ICONSIAM on 6th July 2022, stating that Thai banks place high importance on the development of digital infrastructure in order to upgrade trade transaction services, enable seamless linking of trade and financial data and promote continuous growth of international trade. Two major projects that will enhance trades are:

1. Smart Financial and Payment Infrastructure for Business, which aims at developing the country’s digital financial infrastructure by enabling end-to-end digital business and linking data on business transactions, payments and tax. It involves moving from paper-based trading to a digital system, covering e-invoices, e-tax invoices and e-payments for businesses. This aims to reduce costs, improve efficiency, and create digital footprints to improve access to funding at reasonable costs. As a result, the project will pave the way for digital supply chain financing and the utilization of  digital trade and payment data to improve financial inclusion.

2. National Digital Trade Platform (NDTP), which is a collaboration between relevant public and private entities to develop a platform that facilitates export and import procedures by integrating all transaction data and utilizing e-Document to reduce paper handling. NDTP can be connected to the National Single Window (NSW) and foreign digital trade platforms. Currently, it is connected to Japan’s and Singapore’s trade platforms, and it plans to expand connectivity to other countries in Europe and the Middle East. The platform will bring greater convenience to importers and exporters, as well as improved efficiency and transparency. It will also boost competitiveness and uncover new opportunities for Thai businesses. 

At present, commercial banks play a major role in international trades as they provide a wide range of services such as   remittance, collection, letter of credit and document preparation. They also have convenient online channels which provide access to trade finance solutions and document submission. In 2021, foreign exchange transactions of commercial banks totaled over USD 1,709 billion, showing the high liquidity of the market. Commercial banks registered in Thailand accounted for 65% of the total transactions while foreign bank branches shared the other 35%, reflecting Thai commercial banks’ prominent role in international trade. 
 

Moreover, commercial banks are key players in the Thai financial system, having 92% of the Thai banking system’s total assets. Assets of the 6 largest commercial banks registered in Thailand total USD 537 billion, accounting for 79% of the market. Thai banks also have strong financial positions as the country’s 6 largest banks receive investment grade ratings from all three major credit rating agencies.

“Commercial banks, as well as Thai regulations, are now more conducive to international trades. Thailand has made adjustments to regulations to expand the scope of foreign exchange transactions beyond hedging transactions. The new regulations now allow companies to conduct foreign exchange transactions with fewer documents. We believe that these improvements will further promote growth in international trade between Thailand and Saudi Arabia.”
 

Published : July 07, 2022

By : THE NATION