ScandAsia December 2023

DEC 2023 BUSINESS:

Swedish eco-battery break through

COMMUNITY:

Khun Na and Bent Laasholdt in Phitsanulok

INTERNATIONAL: New Danish Embassy to open in Malaysia

Ambassador debut and Southeast Asia return for Norway’s

Christian Lyster

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December 2023

ScandAsia stories

8 New Danish Embassy to open in Malaysia 9 Philippine Airlines now fly to Copenhagen 10 Human trafificking case involving Thais in Finland 15 Norway and Vietnam strenghten cooperation

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Ambassador debut and Southeast Asia return for Norway’s Christian Lyster

Rediscovering ancient times

26

8

34 John Finn in Pattaya prison

9

22

Reshaping Telenor in Asia

38

10

Tour de Gulf of Thailand

15 New Danish Ambassador in Jakarta

4 ScandAsia • December 2023

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Expand your horizon.

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Editorial

Are the Nordic nations as green as they claim?

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he 28th Conference of the Parties (COP28) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) took place in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, from 30 November until 12 December The conference was set to be a fundamental moment in the global fight against climate change.

The Nordic nations have long exerted influence on sustainability and climate action, extending their impact beyond their borders. Amidst the deliberations in Dubai, the presence of the Scandinavian countries promised to bring environmental experience and innovation to the forefront of the green transition.

Scandinavian countries are renowned for their ambitious environmental benchmarks within their own borders, as well as for actively collaborating with nations globally to share expertise and foster sustainable practices. This collaborative spirit has found a receptive audience in Southeast Asia, where among others Finland has assisted Indonesia in making their future new capital smart and sustainable. Additionally, prominent Thai politicians have visited Denmark to learn about waste reduction strategies and recycling programs etc.

One of the key areas where Scandinavian influence is making a notable impact in Southeast Asia is in renewable energy. The Nordic countries have excelled in harnessing wind, solar, and hydropower to meet their energy needs, and this expertise is increasingly being shared with nations in Southeast Asia. However, questions are slowly emerging about how green the Scandinavian countries truly are?

For instance, Denmark, a global leader in wind energy, has been tearing down more wind turbines in 2023 than they have installed. Despite wind turbines providing

ScandAsia is a printed magazine and online media covering the people and businesses of Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland living and working in China, Hong Kong, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Philippines, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos and Myanmar.

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6 ScandAsia • December 2023

a substantial portion of the country’s electricity. Denmark has also had to admit (once again) that it won’t reach its world-famous energy goals for 2025. Moreover, the Danish government continues to postpone imposing CO2 taxation on the agricultural sector, one of the biggest environmental contributors not only in Denmark but worldwide. While installing such regulations would position Denmark as a global green front figure, it remains an unaccomplished goal.

To achieve the UN’s climate goals and keep the temperature increase in check, the average global citizen must emit a maximum of 3 tons of CO2 per year by 2050.

Currently, the average global citizen emits 6 tons of CO2, while the average Danish citizen emits a substantial 13 tons per person.

As Scandinavian leaders engage with various Southeast Asian counterpar ts during COP28, it raises the question of whether the Nordic nations are genuinely as green as they promote themselves to be. If not, a reconsideration of their branding strategy may be in order.

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News brief

Delegation wishes to reopen Norwegian office in Taiwan

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orwegian Liber al Par ty Chairwoman, Guri Melby, has expressed support for reestablishment a Norwegian representative office in Taipei. During a meeting with President Tsai Ingwen, Melby stated that reestablishing a representative office in Taiwan would help strengthen bilateral relations.

The former Taipei-based Norwegian Trade Council closed in 2004 while Taiwan shuttered its representative office in Oslo in 2017.

During the meeting, Melby emphasized the shared values of democracy and liberty between Taiwan and Norway. President Tsai highlighted Melby’s longstanding support for international human rights and Taiwan.

She emphasized how she anticipate that their collaboration will deepen the Taiwan-Norway partnership.

‘New’ Danish Embassy to open in Malaysia

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he Danish government has announced plans to reopen its embassy in Malaysia in 2024. This is just two years after closing it and relocating coverage to Jakarta. The decision is part of a broader strategy outlined by Foreign Minister, Lars Løkke Rasmussen, who emphasized the need to establish new alliances in an increasingly uncertain and unpredictable world. <The decision to reopen embassies follows a trend seen a decade ago in Manila and 13 years ago in Hanoi and Kuala Lumpur by Sweden. This diplomatic reshuffling reflects the evolving global landscape and the necessity for nations to adapt to changing circumstances.

While Danish representations worldwide have decreased since 2000, with 121 missions then and 94 in 2022, the recent embassy reopening’s signal a strategic shift.The move aligns with Denmark’s commitment

8 ScandAsia • December 2023

to actively engage in international affairs and build partnerships amid the dynamic challenges of the modern world.

Philippine Airlines now flies to Copenhagen

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t will now be easier to catch a flight from the Philippines to the Danish capital, Copenhagen, thanks to a new codeshare par tnership between Philippine Airlines (PAL) and Singapore Airlines (SIA).

Under the agreement, the airlines have mutually agreed to sell seats on each other’s flights.

As a result of this collaboration, passengers can now travel from the Philippines to various European destinations, including Copenhagen, Milan, Frankfur t, Paris, Rome and Zurich, through PAL. Notably, PAL’s connections to both the Danish and Italian capitals mark the first-ever by a Philippine carrier.

The codeshare par tnership is set to commence in the four th quarter of 2023, providing travelers with expanded options and convenience for their journeys.

Visa exemption for Norwegians in China

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orwegian travelers planning to transit through China will now benefit from visa exemption in up to six days. The initiative is initiated to cater both tourism and business purposes.

The recent development allows Norwegian citizens to enjoy visa free transit, provided they can furnish proof of an onward ticket.

This initiative expands the list of eligible nationalities to 54 countries, streamlining the transit process for those passing through China.

December 2023 • ScandAsia 9

News brief

Large human trafficking case involving Thai berry pickers in Finland

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innish authorities have wrapped up an investigation into a human trafficking and briber y scandal. The case involves Thai berry pickers who worked in Finland from 2020 to 2022.

The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) suspects five individuals linked to berry companies for aggravated human trafficking.

The investigating officers say they have spoken to about 170 Thai nationals in Finland who they believe to be victims of human trafficking.

The investigation is still ongoing in Thailand.

10 ScandAsia • December 2023

“There are potentially more than 2,000 victims, most of whom are in Thailand,” Detective Inspector Teemu Mäntyniemi of the NBI said.

In addition to the two Finnish berry companies, another suspect in the case is Olli Sorainen, a Senior Ministerial Adviser at the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment.

“The preliminary investigation has focused on what kind of benefits the official has requested and whether these benefits may have had an impact on the authority’s activities. Including the drafting of legislation,” Detective Inspector Ma-

ria Vuorivirta said about the case.

The case has been transferred to the Office of the Prosecutor General for charges.

News brief

Swedish eco-battery could break China dependency

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wedish batter y company Nor thvolt has introduced a revolutionary sodium-ion battery poised to disrupt China’s dominance in the global electric vehicle (EV) battery market.

Unlike traditional EV batteries, this breakthrough technology eliminates dependence on critical materials such as lithium, nickel, graphite, and cobalt, presenting a more sustainable and cost-effective solution.

Nor thvolt’s sodium-ion battery boasts an energy density exceeding 160 watt-hours per kilogram. Initially targeting applications in electricity storage plants, the battery shows promise for future use in electric vehicles, including twowheeled scooters.

“Utilizing sodium-ion technology is not new, but we believe this

is the first product ever completely free from critical raw materials. It is a fundamental breakthrough,” said Patrik Andreasson, Northvolt’s Vice President of Strategy and Sustainability. He added that this innovation provides an alternative that is not

reliant on specific regions, including China.

While mass production details are yet to be confirmed, the prototype battery is set to be showcased to customers in 2024.

Maersk settles Ever Given dispute

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P Møller-Maersk has reached a settlement in a lawsuit against the companies involved in the six-day blockage of the

Suez Canal. The incident was caused by the Taiwanese-operated containership Ever Given in early 2021.

The carrier confirmed the

withdrawal of the case in Denmark.

However, the details of the settlement remain undisclosed.

The Ever Given, a massive ship owned by Shoei Kisen Kaisha, a Japanese company, operated by Evergreen, a Taiwanese shipping company, and managed by Bernhard Schulte, a German-based maritime services provider, was at the center of the lawsuit filed by Danish shipping mogul AP Møller-Maersk.

The incident led to a six-day entanglement in the Suez Canal, prompting vessels worldwide to diver t around the Cape of Good Hope. The withdrawal of the lawsuit suggests that the par ties involved have resolved their legal disputes, although the specific terms of the settlement are not publicly known.

December 2023 • ScandAsia 11

News brief

Cambodia and Vietnam launch cross-border QR code payments

C system.

ambodia and Vietnam has jointly launched a crossborder QR code payment

The new method will allow people in Cambodia and Vietnam to make payments using local currencies. The initiative, overseen by

the National Bank of Cambodia and the State Bank of Vietnam, aims to boost digital payments.The goal is to encourage the use of national currencies, stimulate economic growth, tourism, and cross-border trade.

Cambodian travelers can use the VietQR code to make payments in Vietnam in riel, while Vietnamese customers can use the KHQR code for transactions in Cambodia in dong. Similar QR code payment cooperation exists between Thailand and Laos.

Volvo shares crashed to all-time low due to Geely selling stocks

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olvo Cars experienced a significant decline in its shares, plummeting by approximately 13% to a historic low. The drop followed the sale of a portion of its stake by its major shareholder, Geely,

12 ScandAsia • December 2023

China’s largest privately-owned carmaker.

Geely opted to sell 100 million Volvo Cars shares at a discounted price, aiming to increase the free float and enhance the overall value

of the Swedish company.

Jim Rowan, CEO of Volvo Cars, emphasized that the move would prove beneficial for both existing and new investors. Geely, which acquired Volvo Cars in 2010, revealed that it generated around $350 million from the sale, with the shares being sold at approximately 37 SEK each - a nearly 10% discount compared to the previous day’s closing price of 40.84.

Despite the intention to strengthen the value of Volvo Cars’ stock, which had already seen a nearly 23% decline year-to-date, the move appeared to have an immediate adverse impact, with Volvo shares experiencing an 11% decline.

Geely’s stake in Volvo Cars was reduced by 4% through this sale, leaving them with an expected 78.7% stake in the company.

News brief

H&M accused of unethical jacket production in Vietnam

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ETA Asia is claiming that Swedish retailer H&M is implicated in supporting the down industry. The accusation is based on a 13-month-long investigation. PETA claims that H&M sources down jackets from Vietnam, where birds allegedly endure gruesome conditions, such as having their feet cut off while still alive, and being slaughtered with axes for their feathers.

Despite H&M’s assurance that their products do not harm animals, PETA Asia’s investigation repor tedly uncovered distressing situations in duck farms and slaughterhouses throughout Vietnam. The findings include ducks with severe wounds in unsanitary sheds, stabbings in the neck, and confinement in small areas

filled with feces. Even at a facility certified by the Responsible Down Standard (RDS), ducks were supposedly subjected to having their feet amputated while still conscious.

H&M later removed the ‘responsible’ down label from its US online store, acknowledging the label’s lack of credibility. Hower ver, the company continues to sell down jackets.

PETA Asia has expressed their intention to formally communicate with H&M Group CEO, Helena Helmersson, to address the company’s alleged involvement in the down industry.

The enclosed letter from PETA serves as a reminder to the H&M executive of documented instances

of cruelty and urges the company to cut ties with the down industry, advocating for the welfare of birds.

H&M collaborates with Singapore-based DBS to help suppliers decarbonize

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&M, the Swedish fast fashion retailer, has joined forces with Singapore’s DBS Bank to introduce an innovative green loan initiative. The program aims to assist clothing manufacturers in cutting down their CO2 emissions.

Unveiled ahead of the COP 28 climate summit in Dubai, the initiative facilitates access to sustainable funding. This financial support is earmarked for enhancing factory infrastructure, enabling suppliers to boost energy efficiency and embark on decarbonization efforts.

The strategic partnership underscores a commitment to addressing environmental concerns within the fashion industry.

December 2023 • ScandAsia 13

News brief

Maersk enters deal for green methanol with Chinese Goldwind

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anish company Maersk has successfully secured a deal with China’s Goldwind for the annual supply of half a million tons of green methanol. The deal marks a significant milestone in the shipping industry’s commitment to sustainability. As par t of Maersk’s goal to achieve net-zero emissions by 2040, this agreement is seen as evidence that large-scale commitments to green methanol are achievable.

“I think this deal shows that it can be done,” said Morten Bo Christiansen, Head of Energy Transition at Maersk.

While the specific value of the deal remains undisclosed, the substantial annual production of half a

14 ScandAsia • December 2023

million tons is noteworthy. Maersk plans to expand its green methanol projects globally, with a par ticular focus on China and other nations.

“We have much more in the pipeline. If we could get one more deal the size of this one, we would be good for the ships we have on order,” Christiansen added.

The deliver y of Goldwind’s green methanol is scheduled to commence in 2026, fueling 12 ocean-going container ships. This aligns with Maersk’s broader strategy to develop a balanced and sustainable fuel portfolio.

News brief

Vietnam and Norway strengthen multifaceted cooperation

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ietnamese Vice President Vo Thi Anh Xuan commended the growth of Vietnam-Norway relations during her meeting with Crown Prince Haakon Magnus in Oslo. The meeting occurred as par t of her visit to the Nordic country.

President Xuan expressed her hope that Norway would assist in expediting negotiations for a free trade agreement between Vietnam and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA). She also sought support for Vietnam’s commitments within the Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP).

Crown Prince Haakon Magnus pledged ongoing support from the Royal Family and the Government of Norway for Vietnam’s effor ts in responding to climate change, promoting green transition, and developing renewable energy. He emphasized Norway’s cooperation in realizing commitments made at international forums, par ticularly the net-zero emission commitment by 2050. Øverst på formularen Nederst på formularen

December 2023 • ScandAsia 15

16 ScandAsia • December 2023

Ambassador debut and Southeast Asia return for Norway’s Christian Lyster After arriving to the Philippines for his first posting as Ambassador, Christian Halaas Lyster could immediately conclude that the ties between his host country and Norway are very strong and expanding - most significantly on business cooperation. In 2023, the two countries also celebrate 75 years of formal bilateral diplomatic relations, constituting the perfect opportunity to build on the past and strengthen the ties and collaboration for the future. Get the essential details on all this and get to know the new Ambassador in this ScandAsia feature!

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By Joakim Persson emarkably, arriving to the Philippines is a sort of homecoming, not only for Ambassador Christian Lyster himself, but also for his wife Cathrine, whose father in fact was Norway’s previous Ambassador in the country from 1994 to 1997! The debuting ambassador was also previously posted in Southeast Asia, at the Norwegian Embassy in Kuala Lumpur.

“We had previous experience from the region; my wife studied overseas during those years, but spent her vacations with her family in the Philippines,” shares the ambassador as he explains their previous connections to the region. “So, for her it was almost like coming back home.”

“She encouraged me to apply for the posting here in Manila. Based on her knowledge about the country and the people, she thought the Philippines would be a good place for us as a family.”

“Everywhere I go, I am warmly greeted as the Norwegian Ambassador. This is a really nice place with nice people. To sum it up, ‘it’s been great so far!”

December 2023 • ScandAsia 17

Ambassador debut

Ambassador Lyster has a legal degree and started off as a prosecutor and then as a deputy judge in Norway. “I enjoyed my work immensely, it was interesting, but then I realised that I wanted to do something more; something on behalf of my country, and that is when I decided to apply for the Foreign Service Trainee Program and was lucky to be accepted.”

“The oppor tunities within foreign ser vice were something that appealed to me.”

Debuting as an ambassador, he says: “It’s always something you really look forward to; representing your country supported by the hardworking staff of the embassy.”

“It’s an honour. While it feels both exciting and fulfilling, it is also a bit scary when you start off for the first time.You are on your toes; you really want to deliver, help and assist on behalf of your country.”

Ambassador Lyster brings his previous experience as head of diplomatic security and emergency preparedness for the entire Norwegian foreign service, which might be relevant given the fact that the Philippines is one of the most climate vulnerable countries in the world.

“Norway supports this advocacy through our allocations to different UN mechanisms. At the same time, there is a potential for even more collaboration between our two countries because of our expertise on emergency preparedness planning,” said the Ambassador.

The Philippines has a good policy environment for disaster preparedness and Norway has complementary capabilities in areas related to emergency preparedness and planning, for example, on oil spills.

18 ScandAsia • December 2023

“Health and safety are core competencies within the energy business sector such as: oil and gas, offshore wind, and renewables. Norway has competence towards safety standards where there is a lot of potential for closer collaboration especially relating to offshore wind,” he added.

“On development and humanitarian assistance, Norway is a major contributor to multilateralism and supports the Philippines through the many UN agencies and their core programme funds. On the bilateral aspect, there is greater potential for collaboration and partnerships under our free trade agreement with the Philippines under European Free Trade Association (EFTA) FTA.”

Back to Southeast Asia

Ambassador Lyster handed over his letters of credence to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on 13 October 2022, and he is also accredited to the Pacific island state Palau.

He arrived in Manila at the end of August with his family, including their eight-year-old daughter.

“Luckily, most of the Covid-19 measures were reduced by then. The Philippines was one of the countries where the schools had been closed for the longest time, and I was happy to send my daughter physically to school upon arriving.”

The ambassador and his wife immediately noticed that Manila has changed and grown. The embassy is now standing on what used to be an empty grassy hill, back in the 90s.

Lyster was also previously posted in Kuala Lumpur as Deputy Head of Mission, where his main areas were political reporting and business promotion.

“I have this memory of arriving at the airport outside KL, and the car ride into the city centre, where the first big poster I saw was a big ad for Jotun paints!”

Now, when back in the region, he says his family will get to know the region and the country as much as possible. “As a family we enjoy travelling, and the Philippines is so much more than Metro Manila, and as ambassador I need to get to know the whole country, not only the capital region.”

Other than travelling, the ambassador says he likes to keep in shape, doing a lot of training, including playing tennis, and golf.

“I also found places where I can go running outside, so that’s one important thing.”

Solid maritime ties developing further

One of the cornerstones of the strong relations between Norway and the Philippines is of course the maritime sector. The ambassador confirms that Norway is wellknown among Filipinos for shipping.

“It’s probably one of the main foundations for the thriving relationship between the two countries and it’s an important element for this year’s 75th anniversary of bilateral relations.”

“At any given time, there are up to 25 000 Filipinos working on Norwegian-controlled and Norwegianowned ships,” he added.

Moreover, there are over fifty companies with Norwegian maritime interests established in the Philippines.

“Coming to a country where the maritime traditions are strong also means something for me personally,

since my grandfather was a seafarer! He sailed for Wilhelmsen as a chief engineer for several decades and was also one of the many Norwegian war sailors”.

His grandfather, in fact, kept a memorabilia from his visits to Manila!

“Many Filipino seafarers working on Norwegian ships are graduates from the Norwegian Shipowners Association’s (NSA) cadet programme, managed by the Norwegian Training Centre established in Manila back in 1990s.“ His late father-in-law, a previous ambassador, laid the foundation for the old training facility back then!

Renewable energy potential

Beyond maritime, Norway also has interests in other sectors that strengthen the ties - especially within business and trade. Therefore, the inaugural ‘Creating Currents in the Energy and Maritime Industry’ conference was arranged in 2022.

Being one of the world’s leading players in renewable energy, Norway aims to assist the Philippines in increasing the share of renewable energy in the energy mix by 30% in 2030. It is also looking forward to introducing new renewable energy technologies, where the Philippines has a competitive edge.

A recent World Bank report has shown that the country could develop up to 178 GW of offshore wind. It is also an area where Norway and Norwegian companies have a lot of competence.

December 2023 • ScandAsia 19

“There’s big potential to increase business presence and build capacity on the renewable energy sector here, specifically through technical exper ts. There are Norwegian companies currently involved in the renewable energy sector: on hydro, floating solar and hopefully offshore wind.”

“The conference showed that there is a lot of potential for investments here in the Philippines, however, regulations have to come into place.This is an area where you can match Norwegian competence and know-how with the potential here in the Philippines.”

“There’s a very strong link between the Norwegian maritime sector and the energy sector – especially offshore – and a lot of the capacity and competence we have built up over years especially relating to oil and gas is now being reused within the renewable fields,” comments the ambassador.

He focuses on areas with clear interest among the Filipinos: “We try to engage with the government in areas where we have common interests.”

So far, the engagement with the host country has been positive: “The Philippine government is all open doors for opportunities, and the government and the Filipinos are very open-minded to influences and experiences from abroad. One reason might be the fact that at any given time a lot of Filipinos are working somewhere else in the world.”

“It’s also impor tant to mention the close cooperation within the Philippines-Norway Business Council - representing and promoting business interests here and finding areas of competencies that can be beneficial for the Philippines as such.”

20 ScandAsia • December 2023

“More Norwegian companies are seeing investment potential here, going forward. This is an important part of the embassy’s work: to support Norwegian companies and businesses,” says the Ambassador.

“We are also seeing more liberalisation of certain sectors. More industries are allowed to take par t in foreign ownership, which makes the country a more interesting market for not only Norwegian companies and investors but also from the whole of the Nordic region!” he adds.

“Making sure that the regulatory framework for business and trade is predictable over time is also very important. And right now, within various sectors, a lot of very good work is going on,” he adds.

The Norwegian Embassy in Manila also works on joint projects with other Nordic embassies here in Manila, such as The Nordic-Philippine Climate Executive Dialogue together with the Embassies of Finland, Sweden and Denmark in Manila.

“We had the first joint project, and my two key takeaways are: 1) Nordic countries have a similar approach on the areas of climate and sustainable development, it’s very good that we can join forces together to promote this agenda. 2) It is not possible for a government to do everything alone and vice versa for the private sector to do it all. The Nordic countries are very used to this approach of cooperation between the public and the private sector.”

“The sustainability agenda was something all Nordic countries have in common. Another key takeaway is the strong interest in how we do things in the Nordics.

Some of it can hopefully inspire the Philippines and local

companies in their sustainability goals,” the ambassador comments on the latest forum.

75 years celebrations throughout 2023

The celebration of 75 years of diplomatic bilateral relations will continue throughout 2023. “Sustainability is high on our agenda this year, and we engage Norwegian companies on offshore wind and circular economy to take presence here in the Philippines.”

“Norwegian seafood export is another area with lots of potential, and we hope to expand seafood exports to the country.”

“The celebration of 75 years of Norway and the Philippines ties also extends on areas such as development, peace and reconciliation, and human rights. Over time, we have worked and cooperated within a broad spectrum of different sectors creating very strong bilateral ties between our two countries.”

“It’s not the embassy as such that created these ties over those years – it’s the Norwegian and Filipino companies, Norwegians that live here and Filipinos living in Norway, the Filipino seafarers, government agencies, and civil society organizations - it kind of encompasses everything. It’s a celebration of ties on many levels, within different sectors and of course my predecessors have helped to create these ties too!”

December 2023 • ScandAsia 21

Mr. Jørgen C. Arentz Rostrup, Head of Telenor Asia, has been seeing through the two major changes in Telenor’s presence in Asia, the creation of CelcomDigi in Malaysia and the merger of DTAC with True in Thailand. He talked to ScandAsia, just prior to his return to the Nordics to become Head of the operations there this fall.

By Joakim Persson

Telenor in Asia reshaping the business

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he year 2022 marked an organisational change for Telenor, as Telenor Asia was established as a more autonomous regional entity, headquartered in Singapore and with oversight and responsibility for the company’s operations in the region.

Head of Telenor Asia, Jorgen C Arents Rostrup talked to ScandAsia about the background and the reason for the restructuring of the business.

“Singapore is an ideal headquar ters location for many companies and also for Telenor Asia, since it is well placed within our footprint and a regional home to some of the world’s largest digital giants and technology innovators,” he explains.

“Asian customer needs and digital behaviours are rapidly changing. By uniting the markets in Asia under a regional set-up in Singapore we can be closer to our customers and actively shape our operations for the future,” Jørgen C. Arentz Rostrup explains.

22 ScandAsia • December 2023

Telenor embarked on its Asian journey in 1997 and bought its first stake in Digi (Malaysia) in 1999. The Norwegians have been telco change-makers in the region ever since.

Celebrating its 25th year anniversary in Asia in 2022 Telenor, has now resolutely moved on; entering into a new chapter by reinventing who they are and reshaping how ‘telcos’, are structured and run.

Eyeing the industrial internet as the next growth opportunity, Telenor realised that the first step on this journey was to build partnerships for scale. This has led to its largest changes and development in Asia to date.

The Norwegian provider has delivered two of the largest telecom mergers in Southeast Asia within a span of three months, creating CelcomDigi CelcomDigi in Malaysia and True Corp. in Thailand.

Jørgen recalls how he had been asked by Telenor Group’s CEO, Sigve Brekke to move to Singapore. The mission: to modernise their operations and capture op-

portunities in the region.

“As I arrived in Singapore in August 2020, I was excited to be living here again. For two years in the 1990s I worked in the city state in business development for Norsk Hydro. Since then, I have been following the fascinating growth story of this region. I was also familiar with Telenor’s operations and agenda in Asia. Before taking on the role to head the Asia operations, I was the CFO of Telenor Group since autumn 2016. As Asia contributed more than half of Telenor’s global service revenues, a big part of my responsibility then was to review performance and drive modernization initiatives.”

Time to move on

“Telenor had entered Asia with a belief that mobile connectivity would benefit everyone and should be accessible to all. That belief has stood the test of time.”

Their local telco brands have provided mass-market mobile connectivity, innovative digital services, and a strong commitment to responsible business conduct.

Proud of what they had achieved in the last 25 years it was however time to move on and provide connectivity not just between people, but also for billions of devices going forward. New technologies such as 5G, IoT (Internet of Things), cloud and AI have immense potential to unlock new benefits for consumers and businesses alike, according to Telenor.

“That’s why we’re reinventing who we are and reshaping our business model. We have been very good at serving the end user, but now our companies are stepping up and working with businesses and governments to take new technologies into more advanced products and services. We are entering into the industrial internet, and we believe this is the next growth opportunity for the telecom sector,” elaborated Jørgen.

And these companies, within Southeast Asia, are now the largest players on their respective markets as a result of large mergers with what were previously Telenor’s local competitors.

“The first step on this journey was to build partnerships to get scale, improve financial capabilities and access new competencies. This is what we achieved with the recent mergers in Malaysia and Thailand, where CelcomDigi and True Corporation are now leaders.”

Commencing operations on 1 December 2022 in Malaysia, CelcomDigi is a merger of Axiata subsidiary CelcomDigi and Telenor subsidiary Digi of which Telenor and Axiata are equal owners having equal operational influence through Board representation. The par ties’ purpose is to form a world-class Malaysian digital telco that will contribute significantly towards the growth of the country’s digital ecosystem and economy.

In 2023 the merger of operators True Corporation and Total Access Communication (dtac) followed, to form Thailand’s biggest mobile operator, as a telecom tech frontrunner with business operations in mobile, broadband, television and digital. The existing True Move and Dtac brands will remain in place for the next three years.

“The mergers are all about developing our business.

Asia is digitalising fast, and in this rapid-paced environment smaller players will find it challenging to invest in the technologies and infrastructure that will be the backbone of digital economies and societies. To realise the full potential of digital advancements scale is key and to achieve this, consolidation is needed in several telecom markets,” the departing Head of Telenor Asia commented.

“Mergers are hard work to begin with and mergers of this size, even harder. But I strongly believe that they are needed. Merger processes allow us to evaluate everything we have done in the past and make conscious choices on what identity, culture, and way of work we want for the future. Telenor is moving from being a traditional telco to owning future-fit, telco-tech companies, so the way we operate needs to change as well. Through these mergers we can challenge everything we have done in the past and find optimal solutions for how we

December 2023 • ScandAsia 23

work to drive efficiency, attract talents and deliver more value to our customers.

New exciting chapter

The mergers are the start of a new exciting chapter for Telenor in Asia, and the Telenor of the future, which is smarter and more flexible. It will continue to explore new ways for achieving its goals and are making the necessary moves to remain in the forefront of industry development.

“We have built a good business the last 25 years on what we call the integrated telco model. This means that we owned and operated almost every part of the value chain from towers to IT systems, services, and customer interface. In the new digital landscape, it is becoming harder to create value through the integrated model, as each part of the value chain is being challenged by both telco and non-telco players. The good news is that our digital assets and capabilities are needed more than ever, but we need to make some changes and rethink the value creation formula.”

At Telenor they will strive to be not just ahead of the curve but reinvent the way telcos are structured and run.

Jørgen takes Malaysia as example of how Telenor is adapting to the future; where CelcomDigi historically has been strong in the public sector while Digi has good traction with SMEs. The new CelcomDigi is positioned as a strong local player with a deep focus on technology.

“With the merger, the enterprise customer base has broadened and now the combined teams bring their expertise together to serve all CelcomDigi’s customers better. They are talking about how to move up in the value chain, creating enterprise solution suites for industries such as health, oil & gas, ports etc.”

“Instead of being a telco with just connectivity services, they are building new solutions based on 5G, AI, IoT, as a technology company. It is still early days, but we are excited by the possibilities the company can achieve,” he added.

With CelcomDigi, the ambition is to leverage the strengths of both companies to broaden product offerings and serve a wider base of customers.

“I’m encouraged by the progress we have witnessed 24 ScandAsia • December 2023

so far. It will take time and require lots of engagement from all parties involved to become a fully digital company.”

In Thailand, meanwhile, the merger gives Telenor access to new business segments on the market: broadband and TV distribution, where True Corporation becomes a telecom tech frontrunner.

“The combined company has more than 56 million customers and is positioned to be a real challenger.

And with True Digital we are securing a leading role in Thailand’s digital ecosystem. Again, immense potential for the company to have huge positive impact but this will require patience, guidance and engagement from us in Telenor and our partners,” stated Jørgen.

One consequence of the mergers is that there are overlaps, so a big focus of the integration process is to combine the networks. As of August, CelcomDigi had completed 60% of its network integration and modernisation plans for 2023. It has also started modernising the existing 4G network with the latest LTE and 5G-ready technologies.

“These effor ts have uplifted the overall network experience for its customers and post-consolidation, they now enjoy wider coverage, increased download and upload speeds.”

Telenor is focused on the synergy effects from the mergers where it has estimated its share of the combined synergies from Malaysia and Thailand at around NOK 20-25 billion.

“The largest part of synergies comes from better run network and IT infrastructure. Simply put, by combining networks, we can invest in one network instead of two, while maintaining wide coverage and strong quality.

With scale, we can also reap synergies from more efficient marketing, coordination of sales and distribution and procurement processes.”

Enabler for the industrial internet: 5G

As for 5G, Malaysia has made the bold move of commissioning a nation-wide 5G network. This is making the country a leader and test-bed for 5G services.

“For consumers, 5G will provide ultra-fast speeds

and low latency to enjoy high quality video streaming and mobile gaming. However, 5G is not just for you and me to watch more Netflix. The full power of 5G is unleashed when it is used by businesses and governments and for connecting devices and machines to other devices. A 2022 report from Telenor IoT estimates that there will be close to 40 billion IoT connected devices in APAC within 2030, most of these devices will need low latency provided by 5G to be effective,” commented Jørgen.

5G’s true potential is as an enabler for the industrial internet, where traffic management, automation of industries and digital advancements in education, payments, and health are some of the examples.

“Telenor is working together with par tners on several pilot projects using new technology across Asia.

In Malaysia we have supported offshore digital transformation, port operations monitoring, and fleet tracking.

In Thailand we have pilot projects within the agriculture industry, energy sector and automotive manufacturing.”

In one of its Asian markets reports, Telenor’s APAC IoT repor t not only points to how IoT solutions are revamping traditional ways of getting things done in the automotive, logistics and energy sectors, but it specifically highlights energy efficiency and waste management are two major reasons why companies in Asia are adopting IoT. Jørgen exemplified: “Waste management is probably not the first thing that comes to mind when one thinks of IoT. However, from collection to processing and disposal, waste management is one of the most important services for any local council or authority and remains a major challenge affecting many cities in Asia.IoT interestingly can play a key role with smart waste solutions and sensorequipped waste stations that communicate real-time status using IoT connectivity provided by Telenor IoT. As a result, trash collection can be prioritized by monitoring the level of waste in connected trashcans rather than relying exclusively on a rigid schedule.”

Looking back

“The recent years have been the most hectic period ever in my career. We delivered two of the largest telecom mergers in Southeast Asia within a span of three months.

It was a mammoth task, involving many, but I truly believe that it was a great opportunity to be part of something big enough to make positive change happen – for employees, customers, businesses and society,” Jørgen reflected on his tenure as Head of Telenor Asia.

“Completing these historic mergers were just the first step. As I pass the baton to my good colleague Petter-Børre Furberg, he and the Telenor Asia team will ensure the successful implementation of the two mergers as well as continue to develop Telenor’s business in the region.”

One market that did not go according to plan for Telenor is however Myanmar (Burma).

“Telenor’s exit from Myanmar remains one of the hardest challenges I, along with those working on the project, have ever faced – professionally and personally.

From the very beginning we put the safety of our people first, in every decision, and that ultimately made it impossible for Telenor to continue operating in the country. As things stand for now, we have no plans to return to the market.”

December 2023 • ScandAsia 25

26 ScandAsia • December 2023

Rediscovering Ancient Times Khun Na and Bent Laasholdt share their journey from owners of The Admiral’s Pub and Restaurant in Bangkok to rejuvenated managers of an amazing property: The Shinnabhura Historic Boutique Hotel in Phitsanulok.

K

By Gregers Moller

hun Na and Bent Laasholdt are clearly thriving in their new roles as resident managers of the Shinnabhura Historic Boutique Hotel in Phitsanulok. Their change from being the owners of The Admirals Pub and Restaurant in Sukhumvit Soi 24 to now managers of this fascinating property in the heart of Thailand seems to have happened exactly at the right time in their interesting lives.

Phitsanulok is very much a historical town. King Naresuan was born in Phitsanulok and he is celebrated not just in this town but all over Thailand as a national hero by the Thai people for liberating the country from the Burmese during his only 15 year reign from 1590 to 1605.

Being an old tour guide, Bent enjoys showing visitors around town and tell stories about every detail we see. During our visit there recently, we went to see the ruins from that time and there we met a group of young people practicing the Thai sword fight. Bent shared contact details with them and now these young warriors are going to demonstrate their skills at the New Year Party at Shinnabhura Historic Boutique Hotel.

Although Bent and Khun Na feel ownership of this unique hotel, Bent admits that one of the reasons for them to enjoy their new job so much is that they don’t own it in any legal sense.

“It is a very nice feeling to be employees. It is like half the responsibility has been taken off your shoulders,” says Bent Laasholdt who looks ten years younger than when we last met at the Admiral’s in Bangkok.

“I am still trying to remember that I should report everything to the owners and ask for permission instead of just making my own decision like I used to, but it feels nice,” he adds.

Khun Na also confirms her happiness with the new job. Also she looks younger than in Bangkok. Is there something in the air in Phitsanulok?

Actually not old at all!

The weirdest information that needs to be shared with the readers of ScandAsia is, that in reality, this hotel was opened only six years ago! How is that possible? How is it possible to build something that looks and feels so authentic like it was built around the time of King Naresuan?

I opened a maintenance shaft and looked inside and there was the proof: Modern building material, pvc pipes, modern cabling.Then I closed it and the wall looked again like this castle had been built in the 18th century. “”The owners wanted to replicate this old style and found the only architect in Thailand who dared to do it,” Bent explains.

Bent loves to tell stories and shared with us how it was the owner of the restaurant at the front of the property by the road who initially got the idea and persuaded one of the current owners to go along with it.They spent a lot of money on it.

December 2023 • ScandAsia 27

Bent and Na got involved because Na’s sister’s husband today owns the majority of the shares of the whole property and the rest of the shares are held by a friend from his school years. Both of them were frequent customers at Admiral’s and they admitted that they did not have the time to run the property - while at the same time they liked the way Bent and Na managed Admiral’s Pub and Restaurant.

“Actually, our retirement plan was to move to Koh Chang and set up a little restaurant there - but once we saw this location we didn’t hesitate to drop our original idea and take this opportunity,” he says.

Another strange thing is that although it was built only six years ago maintenance is a big headache - because everything is made to look so close to the original style.

“I’ll give you an example: The wall around the property is built using original size bricks with original mortar.

When one wall partially collapsed, I at first tried to find the same material but it was way too expensive,” he explains.

So Bent instead rebuilt the wall in concrete but recreated the feel of the surface so you actually cannot see where the old wall ends and the rebuilt wall begins. Well, you can if you go really close, but that was not worth the exorbitant cost.

Phitsanulok is not far away

Going to Phitsanulok is just a few hours by car, but most Bangkokians have this idea, that it is far north. We drove there, left Bangkok at noon and arrived for dinner at 7 pm. Bent came out to greet us and we quickly put our luggage in the room on the 4th floor and then went down for dinner with him and Khun Na. 28 ScandAsia • December 2023

Another charming way to go to Phitsanulok would have been to take the train and arrive at the central train station where you still see the old bell used by the station master and staff everytime a train arrives and leaves.

Technically, you can also go there by air. The airport is actually quite near the hotel.

whole atmosphere is like two hundred years ago. Including the cabinet for hanging your clothes. This is where I found the shaft for maintenance hidden away that brought me back to the present day when I opened it then I quickly closed it again. Living in this amazing time capsule is much more fun!

Charming city

The Shinnabhura collection

The city is located on the banks of the Nan river and the following morning, Bent took us on a bicycle ride from Shinnaburra to the Nan River and along the river for a total of 20 kilometers. Halfway, it started raining, so we waited it out in what looked like a bus stop - then continued when it was almost over - which lasted for quite some time.

Eventually, we were soaked, but then the sun came out and we dried up again on the way back navigating some of the old streets in downtown Phitsanulok. This is also where you find many of the historical monuments and beautiful temples of Phitsanulok. This route is highly recommendable. If you go on your own, ask for help with plotting the end point into your GPS/ Google maps - it is not hard at all.

If you should ever get tired of history, you can also go golfing or visit the beautiful waterfalls in the vicinity.

Or just stay in your room.

Yes, let me tell you about the rooms. Wow! This is how the rich people live, I suppose! We were accommodated in the most luxurious suite of them all, so don’t get disappointed if you book one of the standard rooms, but in our suite, there were two bathrooms, plus a jacuzzi tub by the foot of the enormous bed.

All water tabs and handles are of brass and the

The Heritage Arts gallery within Shinnabhura is an impressive collection of historical artifacts.

To visit the museum, you walk up the wide ancient staircase from the lobby.There you find soldier costumes, weaponry, and detailed metal embossing. Each piece is a result of dedicated research.

The weapons are not original museum artifacts they are created in an effort to preserve the traditional Lanna sword-making techniques. Each sword, a unique masterpiece, stands as a testament to the dedication of these craftsmen, ensuring the legacy endures.

Metal embossing, wood carving, and painting continue this narrative.Your fingers are itching to touch and feel the intricate details, connecting with the cultural identities of the two periods of Ayudhaya and Lanna.

Particularly the Buddha statue tells the story of the 25-year war in a special way:The gesture of the Lord Buddha is the so-called Pang Ham Samut pose, which symbolizes a plea to both warring sides to halt the fighting.

Our stay at Shinnabhura was like visiting a living history book, offering us an opportunity to dive into the rich cultural diversity of Thailand. Imagine if this place was your home!

No wonder Bent and Khun Na are thriving here!

December 2023 • ScandAsia 29

Sten Frimodt Nielsen: From EU Judge to new Danish Ambassador in Jakarta

By Miabell Mallikka Smedegaard 30 ScandAsia • December 2023

When I expressed my wish to rejoin the ranks of foreign service, I explicitly applied to go to Jakarta.

Steen Fromodt Nielsen embarks on the role as new Danish Ambassador to Indonesia with enthusiasm.

Expressing a profound connection to Southeast Asia, Mr. Frimodt Nielsen sees the assignment as an opportunity to engage with one of the most dynamic and significant regions globally.

T

he diplomatic journey of the newly appointed Danish ambassador to Indonesia was delayed due to a process involving two key stages: the sender state, Denmark, notifying the receiving state, Indonesia, of the intention to dispatch the former judge as an ambassador, and the approval of the appointed ambassador by the receiver state, Indonesia.

“We’ve been waiting for the Indonesians to give the green light. And it’s not just me. We were around 20 newly appointed ambassadors waiting for Indonesia’s approval,” Frimodt explains about the process that delayed him from reaching his new office in Jakarta. The procedural process underlines the diplomatic protocol in Indonesia, where parliamentary involvement sets it apart from most other countries.

“The delay was thereby procedural rather than a reflection of my personal shortcomings,” the ambassador shares with a smile.

ScandAsia met with him at the Danish embassy in Jakarta, only a week after the newly appointed ambassador took office. A position the former EU judge has always dreamt of.

The strategic choice of Jakarta

The former judge embarks on the ambassadorial role in Jakarta with candid enthusiasm. Expressing a profound connection to Southeast Asia, Mr. Frimodt Nielsen sees the assignment as an opportunity to engage with one of the most dynamic and significant regions globally. Not only is he the Danish ambassador to Indonesia, the role is also encompassing Malaysia, East Timor and Papua New Guinea – at least until Denmark reopens its embassy in Kuala Lumpur in the second half of 2024. It is thereby the biggest area in Southeast Asia partaken by one embassy and one ambassador. A challenge that the former judge is only excited about.

“When I expressed my wish to rejoin the ranks of foreign service, I explicitly applied to go to Jakarta. While I also had other preferences, Jakarta was at the top of my list. I am extremely happy to be here. It has been a very positive outcome for me,” Frimodt shares, while tea is served in china by Royal Copenhagen.

“We have to show the flag,” he says with a subtle smile.

Mr. Frimodt’s career spans from roles in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to negotiations of EU treaties in Brussels and serving as a judge at the EU Court of Justice.

Even though the Danish News Media Politiken called it a “surprise comeback” when it was first announced, that the experienced judge would take on the new role as ambassador to Indonesia, the decision to return to the

December 2023 • ScandAsia 31

For me, this is the dream. This is what I’ve always wanted.

Foreign Ministry and embark on a diplomatic mission in Jakarta was according to the man himself, a very conscious and eagerly sought-after choice.

Always the goal

Sten Frimodt Nielsen is the son of a teacher and a school secretary. He completed his high school education at Frederiksborg State School and graduated as a lawyer in 1988 from the University of Copenhagen. Subsequently, he spent several years at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, where he was deployed twice. First to the United Nations in New York and afterwards to the European Union in Brussels. He then went to work in the Danish Prime Minister’s office, serving as a trusted advisor for two different governments, before he ended up in Luxembourg.

Here, he spent 16 years working as an EU Judge from September 2007 until he resigned to rejoin the foreign ministry in his new diplomatic role in September 2023.

“For me, this is the dream. This is what I’ve always wanted. Since I was very, very young, I knew that what I wanted was to get into the Foreign Ministry. My old schoolmates would say, ‘Well, that’s what Sten always wanted. He wanted to go out and experience the world.’”

Challenges and joys of the transition

Transitioning from the judiciary to diplomacy, Frimodt expresses delight in returning to a lifelong dream of getting to work abroad, in the region he aspired to work with, within the Foreign Ministry. Despite geographic distance and challenges, the strategic importance of the region makes the assignment par ticularly rewarding, but not without challenges.

“No one can deny the interest and fascination of being a judge at the European Court of Justice. It’s a fantastic position and, for many, a dream job. I wouldn’t have stayed for 16 years if it weren’t remarkable, but it wasn’t what I envisioned for my entire career,” Frimodt shares.

“As time passed, I realized I needed to actively seek a change. While resigning as an EU judge was emotional due to strong connections with colleagues and staff, it helped knowing I was moving on to something equally 32 ScandAsia • December 2023

promising,” the diplomat diplomatically adds about the transition.

Acknowledging the challenges of the distance between Indonesia and Denmark, Frimodt emphasizes the family’s supportive stance. With two grown children from a previous marriage, the new ambassador has recently welcomed a grandchild, which has added an extra layer of significance to the family’s excitement about exploring the vibrant culture of Southeast Asia.

“Of course, my children recognize the distance is a challenge, but they’re positive, acknowledging it’s something I’ve always wanted. They’re excited to visit despite the logistical complexity of flying with a newborn. But overall, they’re very supportive.”

First impressions of Jakarta

“When it became clear we were coming here, me and my wife conducted a fact-finding mission in May and June. We canceled a planned vacation and visited Jakarta

instead. We wanted to experience and understand the surroundings, so when we came here last week, it wasn’t our first time. Prior to that, we hadn’t been here,” Frimodt explains.

“We were supposed to be here for a week, but for some strange reason, our return flight got canceled.

We ended up staying for 10 days. It turned out to be beneficial, since we got to meet all the embassy staff,” he then adds.

Having only spent that brief fact-finding period in Jakarta earlier in the year, his first impressions include the cultural richness, thriving art scene, and overall energy in the region. While acknowledging challenges such as traffic and pollution, the ambassador remains optimistic about the prospects of his stay.

by humility and a keen awareness of the expertise within the embassy. Rather than dictating directives, the ambassador’s focus is on familiarizing himself with various sectors and to identify where he can make a meaningful contribution.

“My main task is to familiarize myself with the diverse areas the embassy covers and identify where I can contribute effectively. I won’t dictate how skilled employees do their jobs. Instead, I’ll aim to complement their efforts,” the ambassador says with a genuine modesty.

As he steps into this dynamic role, the ambassador’s task seems clear. It involves a steep learning curve along with cultural sensitivity in the Southeast Asian context, and a collaborative leadership style that emphasizes collective strength.

Only an added contribution to an already strong work force

Frimodt’s approach to the work ahead is characterized December 2023 • ScandAsia 33

Behind Bars in Thailand: Exclusive Interview with Danish John Finn in Pattaya Prison

By Miabell Mallikka

hended in Pattaya for attempting to distribute “Ice,” as John Finn calls it. A substance more commonly known as Methamphetamine or Crystal Meth. What remains untold, however, is the story of how an undercover agent, a foreign man named Philip, approached him during his routine grocery shopping in a Foodland in Pattaya.

“Philip approached me in Foodland and persistently pestered me to sell him Ice. Initially, I declined, but after relentless requests, I mentioned I might have some friends who could assist. So, I exchanged ‘Line’ details with him and promised to get back. Three days later, I did just that,” John continues.

Sealing his fate at Starbucks

A

s I step into the visiting room, I find myself lost among the sea of faces, trying to locate him. Even amidst the limited number of white men, or ‘farangs’ as they are referred to in Thailand, it is difficult to spot him through the thick glass separating visitors from those serving time. After a swift scan, we lock eyes, and with a warm and inviting smile, he eagerly signals me over.

John Finn Ørsted Meyer Jensen doesn’t attempt to portray himself as a saint. He honestly and openly admits his mistakes, although he believes that they may not be as grave as they have been portrayed.

Fell into a trap

“I fell into a trap. No doubt about it. I was incredibly naive, but back in Denmark, something like this would never have happened. There, you’d actively have to approach potential customers for a sale. What transpired here was far from that scenario,” he states. His voice resonated over the old, stationary phone. His recognizable bald head faintly shines behind the smudged glass, with the light gray-painted steel bars in the middle.

The story has circulated across numerous media outlets: the narrative of the 51-year-old Dane appre34 ScandAsia • December 2023

This led to the infamous Starbucks meeting, where the Dane’s fate was sealed after being arrested for drug possession with intent to sell. A fateful moment that has John sitting in Pattaya Remand Prison today, serving his third year, with a total sentence of 14 years and four months.

“At first, I was sentenced to 28 years and 8 months.

If I accepted the verdict, the sentence would be halved.

I was then down to 14 years and 4 months, which the police appealed, hoping I would get a harder punishment.

Instead, I ended up with 5 years and 7 months after the appeal,” he shares.

“The first three days I spent in the Safehouse. That’s where you get interrogated,” John reveals, unable to delve into the specifics due to legal constraints.

“But the rules governing interrogations in Thailand are vastly different from those in Denmark,” he adds.

“The police can do almost whatever they want here,” John adds.

“With the sentence reduction due to amnesty regulations and the possibility of being transferred to one’s home country, I had anticipated returning to Denmark back in March.Yet, I’m still here.The process is supposedly ongoing, but it’s hard to say how long it will take. So, I’ve stopped hoping. Hope doesn’t do you any good in here.”

Alone among hundreds of men

John, however, envisions the conclusion of his time in Pattaya prison. With the reduction in his sentence and another one on the horizon in the summer of 2024, he anticipates having 10-11 months left to serve.

Upon release, he faces deportation back to Denmark, as he will be banned from Thailand for the next 99 years.

“I have two children here, aged 11 and 4. I can apply to have the ban reduced because of them,” he shares.

However, he has no contact with either the children or their mothers today. Neither has his children back in Denmark or their mothers reached out to him. In the slightly over three years he has spent in prison, no one except his sister has been in contact with him.

“We don’t talk anymore, though,” he says.

“I had hoped she would help me raise money for bail, but it didn’t work out. She just kept complaining about losing the apartment I had provided for her here in Thailand. She kept demanding that I’d get her a new one.

But what am I supposed to do from here? I have nothing.

I’ve lost everything. And all she could do is pity herself and complain. In the end, I had to cut ties. It brought me nothing but increased stress and sadness.”

Despite the tough exterior he has developed, the absence of contact from family and friends is evident as he gazes down at the table in front of him and takes a deep breath.

When loyalty is a core value

When John was initially arrested, he was asked to name his friends who, according to his own account, had supplied him with the drugs he was apprehended with. He has steadfastly denied giving up names from the very beginning. Even though not a single person has visited him during the three years he has spent in prison – nor has there been any inquiry.

“Back home in Denmark, I also have friends who owe me money. Friends I’ve done a lot for. But now that I need help, I am completely alone. And it’s incredibly challenging to be alone in a place like this,” he shares.

Apart from the three daily meals served in prison, one of the trials of being alone has been that provisions still cost money to acquire in prison. Money that John Finn doesn’t have when there’s no one to support him.

“Presently, the Danish Church in Thailand assists me. The church provides me with 500 baht a month for necessities. Prior to that, the prison provided me with a tube of toothpaste and a bar of soap annually, which was quite extraordinary. Nevertheless, it’s not hard to imagine

how challenging it is to make a tube of toothpaste last an entire year,” he remarks, with a small smile.

John then emphasizes his gratitude towards Christa, the Danish vicar in Thailand, for her support.

“She is my lifeline. My connection to the outside world. I cannot thank her enough for what she has done for me,” he shares, with a genuine gratitude, and the hint of tears in his eyes.

The place where dreams must die

What gets him through this challenging time is his routine and keeping himself from dreaming.

“The first year was the hardest. Now, I’ve adapted to the rhythm. I’ve established a routine, and I know how to navigate it. I always keep my head down,” he shares, with a shadow of concealed sadness flickering in his eyes.

His day star ts at 5:55 AM when his Norwegian friend wakes him up. After that, he packs up his “bed” – a bed consisting of a mat with a blanket on a concrete floor among 40 other men. An upgrade from his first cell, where they were 200 men.

“Having a mat and blanket to sleep on is also an upgrade. The first year and a half, I didn’t have a blanket to sleep on, so I would just lay down on the cement floor,” he says.

Ever y man has three blankets that make up his “bed”. One to lie on, one to cover themselves with, and one to fold and use as a pillow.

Despite the minor upgrade, the layout of the cells is the same. All the men lie side by side on their respective blankets, with the open toilets situated in the middle of the room. Privacy does not exist here.

December 2023 • ScandAsia 35

“It’s challenging to use the restroom facilities in front of everyone else. Even out in the yard, the toilets are open. People will walk by and cast unwarranted stares,” he says.

When every day is the same

At 6:30 AM, they are let out of the cell and allowed a shower. In the communal shower area, hundred men stand in rows. Each person has a mere two minutes to rinse off, followed by three minutes to soap up, and then another two minutes to rinse off once more. After this brief window, the water supply is cut, and the next group enters for their turn.

Breakfast starts at 6:45 AM and is divided into four rounds. John belongs to the second round, which means he has his breakfast from 7:00 AM until his round concludes at 7:15 AM. By 8:00 AM, there’s a morning assembly featuring the Thai national anthem and the king’s song, followed by a prayer to Buddha. The rest of his morning and early afternoon take place in the covered courtyard, since foreign prisoners are not allowed to work.

“As a foreigner you are not allowed to work as the rest of the prisoners, which means, that there is really not much for us to do all day” he explains.

In-between inmates

In the courtyard, there are 600 prisoners and only four guards. To make it work, the guards have delegated some of the responsibility to the inmates.

“When it’s time for medication, it’s not a guard who hands it to you; it’s another prisoner. Here, most interactions are between inmates,” he explains, his words leaving much unsaid. However, his eyes convey the unspoken truth. Even through the distorted lens of the thick glass, the bars, and his scratched glasses.

Lunch rounds begin at 11:30 AM. Meanwhile, the prisoners are counted every day at 12 PM. Dinner follows swiftly, starting as early as 1:45 PM, followed by another brief period in the yard before they pack up their “houses” at 3 PM. The rest of the day is spent in the open cell with the noise of Thai soap operas blasting from the television.

“I don’t speak Thai, so there’s not much entertainment for me. Generally, there isn’t much entertainment around here when you don’t understand Thai,” he says with a sad expression. His gaze dropped to the table In front of him.

To pack up your “house”?

“Packing up house” signifies clearing one’s designated area in the courtyard. This involves folding one’s blanket and organizing the meager possessions one has managed to acquire. Additionally, one’s “house” refers to a prisoner’s social circle or “gang” in prison – the group of people they associate with.

“Foreigners and Thais don’t really mingle. There are 36 ScandAsia • December 2023

some Thai ‘houses’ consisting of up to 30 men. In my case, we are only three people in my house: me, a Pakistani who speaks English, and my Norwegian friend. We can speak Danish and Norwegian together, but most of the time, we converse in English. That’s just the cultural norm here,” he states, unable to disclose more on the topic.

However, he does reveal how he often spends his days lying on his blanket, with his warn out grey beanie, that he clutches between his hands as he talks, covering his face. This way, he appears as if he’s sleeping, ensuring that no one disturbs him – a situation he prefers.

“It’s important to understand that many Thai people have a more stable life inside prison than they do outside.

There isn’t the same fear of consequences that you might encounter, for example, in Denmark,” he adds, shedding light on the complex dynamics of life behind bars in Thailand.

How it all started

John’s life took a turn when he moved to Thailand approximately 14 years ago, following a drug-related sentence in Denmark. A sentence he still deems unjustifiable.

“I was convicted for selling hard drugs, even though it was Weed, which isn’t considered a hard drug. Consequently, my sentence was much harsher than it should have been. I was handed 4.5 years and ended up serving 2.5 years, being released in the summer of 2007,” he recounts.

In 1994, at the age of 25, John had invested in his first gym while pursuing his engineering studies. The venture flourished, expanding to include two fitness centers, two nightclubs and a trucking company before his arrest in 2005.

“As a bouncer, you get to know a lot of people. So I ended up selling for some friends, but as I mentioned, it was Weed and not hard drugs. After that I felt unfairly treated by the system and wanted a change.”

Upon his initial release, he found employment as an engineer through the organization High Five. However, he was laid off during the 2008 financial crisis. By that time, he had already invested in his first apartment in Thailand in 2005.

Consequently, after about a year of freedom in Denmark, he made the life-altering decision to move to Pattaya.

Here, John established a construction company called Meyer Constructions. He emphasizes that this business venture contributed to his investments in multiple apartments – properties that have been the subject of controversy in the media.

Back in 2021

When John Finn was arrested in January 2021, reports claimed he owned eight apar tments in Pattaya. Allegedly, these apartments were purchased with drug money.

John himself confirms that he owned eight apartments in Pattaya prior to his arrest, but he firmly denies that they were purchased with drug money.

“The apartments were investments made in connection with my construction company. Before Covid, I rented them out, but during the pandemic, the rental conditions changed. So, I leased them to groups of men who used the apartments for private parties. I had no involvement in what they brought into the apartments – whether it was alcohol, women, or drugs,” he clarifies.

Following his arrest, the apartments were searched, leading to the discovery of more drugs. However, John denies any association with these substances.

“I couldn’t tell them about the parties, cause if the authorities asked for the names of everyone involved, I wouldn’t be able to provide them, for obvious reasons,” he elaborates.

Subsequently, his apartments and all his possessions were confiscated. According to the media, assets worth over 10,690,000 baht were seized from the Dane.

“I’ve lost everything,” John exclaims with a remarkable calmness.

15 Minutes Later

During my first visit with John, a young guard approaches us and signals toward me, holding a book in his hands. I realize he’s requesting to borrow the phone I’m using to communicate with John. I hand him the phone, and I observe as he explains to John that the book he received from the Danish priest in Thailand has been approved and will be delivered to him. The guard kindly returns the phone, flashing a smile that reveals the braces on his teeth, appreciative of my cooperation.

As the 15-minute visitation time concludes, we are asked to wrap up our conversation. John gets up from his seat, tightly clutching his old beanie between his hands.

He moves slowly toward the exit, his head bowed. The beanie remains pressed between his palms, while the taped glasses, essential for his vision today though absent in all pictures from his arrest three years ago, slide slightly down his nose. In that moment, it’s difficult to believe that John is only 54 years old, walking toward the prison yard, and not a much older man heading toward the end of his life.

December 2023 • ScandAsia 37

Tour de Gulf of Thailand Chumpon - Pattaya with the Norwegian Church The Tour de Gulf of Thailand is not a race but a unique way to experience Thailand, designed to be flexible and enjoyable.

The 2023 trip once again provided the participants with a memorable and fulfilling cycling experience.

By Sofie Roennelund

38 ScandAsia • December 2023

This year was special because we had a rest day in the middle of the trip for the first time.

Previously, we would just bike for 7 days in a row, but this time we had a day to relax, and it had a very positive impact.

T

he Tour de Gulf of Thailand 2023, organized

by Hans Konrad Nyvoll of the Norwegian Seamen’s Church in Pattaya, kicked off on November 14, 2023 with zeal and determination, marking the commencement of a nine-day cycling adventure covering 700 kilometers from Chumpon to Pattaya.

Clad in vibrant neon green suits, 34 cyclists from the Norwegian Seamen’s Church in Pattaya embarked on this annual event, with the departure taking place at 8 am from the Chumpon Seamen’s Church amidst an overcast sky.

Despite the cloudy weather, spirits were high as the cyclists embraced the challenges that lay ahead. The tour, initiated in 2011, has been a recurring event, overcoming hurdles such as the pandemic. This year, there were no hindrances like a state of emergency, and even the looming rain couldn’t dampen their enthusiasm.

As the cyclists geared up for the adventure, concerns about potential rain were met with a simple response from Hans, the organizer : “We just bike.” Rain ponchos were mentioned, but the cyclists embraced the inevitability of getting wet during the upcoming sweaty days.

The journey kicked off towards Bangsaphan, 82 km away, encountering challenges such as roads full of holes, bridge construction, and minor re-directions. Despite the obstacles, the cyclists pressed on, enjoying the trip with smiles on their faces.

The non-competitive nature of the tour allowed participants to choose their pace, adapting to the road and weather conditions. Kjell Jvar Aase surprised everyone by being the first cyclist to check in at Bangsaphan around 11.30 am, just 3.5 hours after the start. His jour-

ney included stops for food and drink and a brief deviation from the ‘no cycling alone’ rule due to a mishap with his phone.The cyclists, off to a good start, ended their first day at a hotel by the coastline, with views of the ocean to soothe their adrenaline.

The route, starting in Chumpon, southwest of Bangkok, spanned eight stages with an average length of 86 km per day.The initial days led the cyclists along the coast and beautiful beaches, with a rest day in Cha Am after stage 4.

The journey continued around Samut Prakan, near Bangkok, concluding with a celebratory dinner before the final stretch to Pattaya, crossing a bridge outside Chonburi and reaching the ultimate goal.

After overcoming bumpy roads, rain, and unexpected challenges, the participants eagerly anticipated the remaining stages of their cycling adventure through the picturesque landscapes of the Gulf of Thailand.

December 2023 • ScandAsia 39

Because of this trip, we’ve just seen parts of Thailand we perhaps never would have otherwise.

Arriving in Pattaya

The culmination of the Tour de Gulf of Thailand 2023 was the completion of the remarkable cycling journey.

On November 22, 2023, cyclists began arriving at the Norwegian Seamen’s Church in Pattaya, concluding the 10-day adventure that started on November 14.

Despite the last leg from Chonburi to Pattaya spanning 93 km, the first cyclists triumphantly reached the finish line at 11.27 am, a mere three and a half hours after the 8 am departure. As they gathered at the church, one cyclist humorously remarked, “Now we wait for next year,” capturing the sentiment of both accomplishment and anticipation for future cycling endeavors.

40 ScandAsia • December 2023

ScandAsia interviewed Gro Jørgensen, a participant who arrived early, to gain insights into the unique experience. She expressed how the journey provided a distinctive perspective of Thailand, allowing them to explore parts of the country they might not have encountered otherwise.

When questioned about the physical challenges, Gro responded, “Nah… Even though I haven’t biked a lot prior to this, it’s definitely do-able. But of course, it’s not short distances.” Other cyclists echoed similar sentiments, arriving sweaty but not necessarily out of breath, with smiles and camaraderie prevailing.

To commemorate their achievement, cyclists were treated to pancakes, coffee, and soda at the church. However, the main collective celebration occurred the night before at the Chonburi hotel, where participants shared a final dinner and raised toasts, relishing the memories forged during the trip.

Hans Konrad Nyvoll, the organizer, shared his positive sentiments about the journey upon checking in at the church. He highlighted the pleasure of the trip, the camaraderie among participants, and the scenic routes.

Despite a few accidents, he assured that everything was alright. Nyvoll revealed that this year was special due to the inclusion of a rest day, a first in the tour’s history. The impact of the rest day was so positive that plans were in place to incorporate even more rest days in the next edition.

The essence of the Tour de Gulf of Thailand was emphasized – it is not a race but a unique way to experience Thailand, designed to be flexible and enjoyable. The 2023 trip embodied this ethos, providing participants with a memorable and fulfilling cycling experience.

Thailand ‘Best Affordable Long-haul Destination’

T

hailand has secured the title of ‘Best Affordable Long-haul Destination’ in the Travel Great RES Prize Destination 2024 awards. The award is organized by RES and Travel News, a leading travel industry magazine in Sweden.

The tribute is based on a survey conducted by the research company Nordic Bench and Travel News.

It reflects the choice of Swedish travelers seeking a dream destination that combines the best value and quality.

This marks the third consecutive year that Thailand has received this recognition, formerly known as the ‘Best Value for Money’ award.

“It is truly an honor to receive this award once again. It’s an amazing feeling to know that Thailand remains the preferred destination for Swedes over the years. We are committed to sustaining our efforts to ensure Thailand’s position as the preferred long-haul destination for many more years to come,” said Krittika Rojanasap, Deputy Director

News brief

of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Stockholm Office.

December 2023 • ScandAsia 41

News brief

Danish furniture BoConcept making its way in Vietnam

B

oConcept, the renowned Danish furniture and design company, has solidified its presence in Vietnam by establishing six stores in major cities such as Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.The brand offers a diverse range of home and office furniture, along with accesso-

ries and outdoor pieces. Additionally, BoConcept provides personalized customization and interior design services to assist customers in creating spaces that suit their preferences.

Nguy Linh Giang, a Vietnamese English teacher in Hanoi, used BoConcept’s products to furnish her

apartment for foreigners. She cited the brand’s appeal in its “simple, modern Scandinavian style” that combines functionality with minimalistic yet smart and elegant design, as shared on her social media account.

BoConcept recently unveiled its “New Kollektion” featuring categories for the Living room, Dining room, Home Office, and Accessories.

Established in 1952 in Denmark by Jens Ærthøj and Tage Mølholm, BoConcept has become a premium retail lifestyle brand. The company operates under the guiding principles of the “BoConcept Way,” emphasizing culture, growth, customer satisfaction, performance, and, notably, the well-being of its people. BoConcept has expanded its reach to more than 300 stores across sixty-plus countries, showcasing its enduring commitment to delivering quality and stylish furniture worldwide.

Flying Tiger Copenhagen ready to serve Filipino customers

F

lying Tiger Copenhagen is ready to greet shoppers in the Philippines who are looking for items for their home, friends, and family.The Danish variety store chain announced its plans to open the first branch in the Philippines earlier this year.

The store recently updated its Christmas Collection featuring several knick-knack items such as “Santa Pens”, “Slippers”, “Gingerbread Cups,” and Christmas ornaments.

“We bring Scandinavian elements, affordability, and create a joyful experience for customers in

42 ScandAsia • December 2023

our stores. Seeing people smile and share their finds captures the essence of what we aim to bring to

our customers,” said Martin Jermiin, CEO of Flying Tiger Copenhagen, in a press release.

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