ScandAsia eMagazine October 2012 - All-in-One Edition by Scandinavian Publishing Co., Ltd.

OCT 2012

...all together now!

Swedish built stealth warship in Indonesia ScandAsia.dk

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CONTENTS Cover stories Swedish built stealth warship Swedish PT Lundin launches advanced stealth warship in Indonesia

New Danish Envoy to Singapore Interview with H.E. Mrs. Berit Basse about her new assignment.

Swede makes Hua Hin more tasty So far he has opened three restaurants in the Thai seaside resort.

OCTOBER 2012

Interviews & Features Eco-bungalow in Laos Two young Swedish entrepreneurs founded â&#x20AC;&#x153;World Volunteerâ&#x20AC;? that help villagers in Laos.

Passion to profession Danish photographer Gitte Johansen enjoys her job at International Design House in Hong Kong

Finnish family on Phuket Finnish divers Sven Schlegel and Virpi Lehtonen settled on Phuket.

CONTENTS Regular columns Coming Events ........... 8-10 Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s up in the Scandinavian world accross Asia.

Past Events ................. 11-21 Photos from Social Network, Parties, Golf, wherever the Scandinavians get together.

News Brief ................... 22-35 Briefing on major news involving Denmark, Sweden, Norway or Finland in Asia that happened during the past month.

Opinion Pages ............

6-8

Where ScandAsiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s writers share with the readers what they make of our world - big & small.

OCTOBER 2012

More good stuff! 46 Guide to the perfect shopping day in Shanghai Shopping guide in three different locations in Shanghai: Nanjing road, South Bund fabric market, and Nanchang road By Dennis Krog

50 Enjoying Singapore’s gastronomic explosion

Jakob Esko, Swedish Executive chef at Capella Singapore on Sentosa, brings modern European Mediterranean flavours to Singapore’s culinary scene. By Joakim Persson

54 Quests for temple caves

Norwegian expat Dr. Nils B. Vogt presents a different perspective of what Thailand has to offer. By Wachiraporn Janrut

56 Coaching writers in memoir and novel writing Interview with Novelist Caroline Allen who coaches people from all backgrounds to write By Andrea Hessmo

62 Go nuts on Koh Phangan 65 Thailand’s First private museum

Coconuts! By Gregers Moller

Danish Consul General Anders Normann has opened his own Danish museum By Gregers Moller

66 Koh Phangan in Stockholm

Swedes who much enjoyed themselves on Koh Phangan brought the touch back to Sweden and opened three restaurants called “Koh Phangan”, featuring authentic Thai atmosphere with imported materials from Thailand. By Helene Benno

67 Sodoku & Danish meatballs in curry recipe By Gregers Moller

Opinion

My coach and I

I Your FREE ScandAsia Magazine in Singapore ScandAsia is the only magazine that covers all the Danish, Finnish, Norwegian and Swedish residents in Singapore. We also publish a ScandAsia magazine in China, Thailand, and the rest of South East Asia.

Please sign up for your own FREE copy: www.scandasia.com Publisher : 211 Soi Prasert Manukit 29 Prasert Manukit Road Chorakae Bua, Lad Prao Bangkok 10230, Thailand Tel. +66 2 943 7166-8, Fax: +66 2 943 7169 E-mail: news@scandasia.com Editor-in-Chief : Gregers A.W. Møller gregers@scandmedia.com Assistant Editor: Wachiraporn Janrut wachiraporn@scandmedia.com Advertising : Finn Balslev finn@scandmedia.com Piyanan Kalikanon piyanan@scandmedia.com Nattapat Maesang nattapat@scandmedia.com

have a guru, a mentor. The Americans call it “coach”, a coach in fiction writing. It took me years, not to find her, but to actually contact her. Sometimes, we’re good at putting obstacles in our way. Imagine an experienced novelist and artist taking you by the hand, guiding you through the mysteries of writing a novel. That’s what Caroline Allen is doing with budding fiction writers all around the world. I’m interviewing her in this issue. She is a magical person with wide-reaching powers, a sage, an artistic and spiritual leader whose work is yet to be known on a global scale. And when it finally will break through, it will be with the force of a creative tsunami. I’ve had other teachers in the past. “You should write a novel,” one of them said at the writing course I attended at Folkuniversitetet in Stockholm. I was playing with a number of short stories, sketches and portraits inspired by my experiences in Eastern Europe. “I really don’t have this kind of fascinating material that you have,” he said. “You should turn these stories into a novel.” I always wanted to write a novel but had no idea how to actually do it, how to structure all this material, which kept haunting me, into a narrative that could work. I wasn’t even sure which language to write in. I’m multilingual and with my inherent respect for language, I knew I “should” be writing in Swedish, the language I was educated in. The problem was that my novel is not a Swedish story, and that’s why writing it in English seemed the only thing that would make sense. The story needed to be told in English. Yet, I worried. I looked for advice. There are classes, courses, none of which worked for me. Writers have always learnt by reading and writing, by trial and error and by never-ending rewriting. But we also need help and we do need people. For feedback we can trust, we need mentors who are writers and artists themselves. I was recommended to contact Caroline Allen by my American artist friend Leah Kohlenberg years ago. Finally, after much hesitation, I did contact her and the journey under her guidance has been mind-blowing. I began with Caroline by simply talking to her about my story idea. She made suggestions for how to begin the novel, how to write a rough draft of chapter 1. I wrote it, emailed the document to her, and we Skyped about how to evolve it further. This has been our process week after week as the novel has progressed. I realised that this is exactly what I’ve been looking for and there had been nothing like it on offer in Sweden. She has literally put me on track with my writing and showed me how to shape my seemingly disconnected fragments of text into a story. Also, the synchronicity in our lives has been amazing. Plenty of spinoff ideas for further cooperation has resulted out of this creative process. I could also see that I too know how to support other writers, that in fact, I have been doing this with friends in the past: collaboratively talking through, sometimes even co-writing their stories or plays without ever having put a “coaching” label on it. Americans are so much more entrepreneurial (creative) about the arts and writing than we are in Europe. In Europe, we are surrounded by our rich artistic heritage, a source of never-ending inspiration, but we’re not at all entrepreneurial about creative endeavours for the average person. Yet, anything seems possible via Skype these days, even art classes – my friend Leah teaches people all over the world how to paint via her computer. Busy executives can squeeze in one hour of painting in their packed schedule but not three, the time it takes to get to and from the class. Doing it via Skype might be the only chance for some people to pursue something they always dreamed of doing, at the convenience of doing it from their homes. The lesson is that it really doesn’t matter where in the world you are anymore - your coach and mentor in whatever passion you wish to pursue could be just a Skype-call away. There is a whole world of opportunity to tap into for anyone who wants to join this creative global revolution.

Graphic Designer : Supphathada Numamnuay supphathada@scandmedia.com Distribution : Wanvisa Rattanaburi wanvisa@scandmedia.com Printing : Advance Printing Services Co., Ltd.

Daily news and features here: www.scandasia.com Front cover image courtesy of Kim Birkkjaer Lund

Andrea Hessmo is a Swedish freelance journalist and writer, currently based in Singapore. She has been a regular journalist for ScandAsia Singapore since September 2011. She holds a Master’s degree in English.

Opinion

Go home!

dense - the provincial town in Denmark known abroad as the birthplace of fairytale author Hans Christian Andersen - was in August the scene of a battle between Danish police and mostly Muslim immigrants. The trouble started during the celebrations of a Muslim holiday that marks the end of Ramadan in Vollsmose - a district in Odense with a high percentage of immigrants. A 26-year-old man was shot in one leg and stabbed in the other, and another man, a 24-year-old, was hit by a car which fled the scene. Later in the night, members of two groups of immigrants clashed in the centre of Odense. The violence culminated when a group of 60-70 people stormed the main hospital in town in an attempt to reach the victims of the shooting and hit-and-run incident. The group threatened hospital staff and police, vandalising furniture and police cars along the way. In total, one ambulance and four police cars were destroyed from the night’s events. The police had shot a few warning shots at the hospital but eventually decided to retreat and let the mob vandalise the hospital. After the incident, the debate about the Danish immigration policy flared up. Many Danes across the political specter resent the Muslim immigrants who often make little efforts to integrate themselves in the Danish society. It adds to their resentment that the immigrants openly push for the Danish society to adjust itself to their culture and religion instead. “Why don’t we send them home?” was the question raised. The question remains unanswered because it is simply not an option in Denmark. All members of the establishment - the media included - operate on the basic consensus that immigrants have the right to stay and it is the duty of the Danish public sector to integrate them and make them as Danish as possible including giving them all the rights of Danish citizens. Immigrants from countries in the far east like Thailand, Vietnam and the Philippines are by the same people generally perceived as well integrated and used as an example of how all immigrants ought to be integrated. They speak Danish, find work albeit often in the black economy, and are not seen as abusing the public economic support system. Their few temples and public festivals are seen as exotic display of cultural diversity. When counting my many blessing from living in Thailand, the Thai tolerance against foreigners is the one I appreciate the most. Resentment against foreigners does sometimes surface. But compared to what I experienced back in Denmark during my summer vacation this August it is negligible. Even when we as foreigners sometimes attempt to change Thailand - or develop Thailand as we call it - we are largely tolerated, listened to and sometimes our ideas are even adopted. Obviously, if what we suggest is unwanted, we are still listened to but that is as far as it goes. Wondering why foreigners are being accepted so differently in Thailand compared to back in Scandinavia, I always come back to one fundamental difference in our situation here in our new home country. Here, we are from the very first day we arrive in Thailand made aware that we are here temporarily. You must leave the Kingdom before this date. I arrived here more than 20 years ago and I am still here temporarily. There is no automatic mechanism that turns foreigners into Thais - which we would never be able to become anyway never mind how fluent we would be in Thai. The Thais have no qualms telling us that we are different and that there are things we cannot do - like buy their land. If you break the law you serve your sentence - and then you are deported. All Thais regardless of education or political orientation share the natural understanding that foreigners can be sent home - and they find it reasonable and appropriate every time it happens. Could it be that the reason the Thais have cultural elasticity enough to accept us as foreigners here is based on that fundamental understanding - which is accepted without too much grumbling by us foreigners - that by the end of the day if we really don’t fit here, we can be told:

Your FREE ScandAsia Magazine in Thailand ScandAsia is the only magazine that covers all the Danish, Finnish, Norwegian and Swedish residents in Thailand. We also publish a ScandAsia magazine in China, Singapore and the rest of South East Asia.

Go home!

Graphic Designer : Supphathada Numamnuay supphathada@scandmedia.com Distribution : Wanvisa Rattanaburi wanvisa@scandmedia.com Printing : Lake & Foundtain Printing Co., Ltd.

Gregers Moller is the Editor-in-Chief of ScandAsia and the founder of the Scand-Media Group. He has lived in Thailand since 1988.

Daily news and features here: www.scandasia.com

Coming Events

Business Person of the Year - Gala Party! Date: 7 October 2012 Location: Hotel Twelve at Hengshan in Shanghai DCCC Shanghai is for the 6th time hosting the Business Person of the year in China 2012 Gala Party. After dinner and Awards Ceremony, the Danish band ‘Dodos and the Dodos’ will make sure that the dance floor is occupied. For more information, visit the chamber’s website www.dccc.com.cn

Your FREE ScandAsia Magazine in China

Seminar on how to coach and manage your team

ScandAsia is the only magazine that covers all the Danish, Finnish, Norwegian, and Swedish residents in China. We also publish a ScandAsia magazine in Thailand, Singapore and the rest of South East Asia.

Date: 1 November 2012 Location: Radisson Blu Hotel Shanghai New World, 88 Nanjing Road (W) Shanghai 200003 Price: RMB 100/members RMB 500/non-members

A night at the race track

The seminar aims at increasing the understanding of teams and Action Reflection Learning (ARL) – a mix of drawing on the experiences of the participants, theory, experience sharing and reflection. It will also explore the subject of leadership, make distinctions between managing and coaching, and provide a set of useful means to approach team and leadership challenges. The speakers will include Mr. Thomas Severin, a certified psychologist, author on several acclaimed books on leadership, coaching, teams and creativity, and Ms. Katarina Billing, a certified psychologist with more than ten years of experience working as a programme director and programme facilitator and coach for teams and individuals. For more information, visit www.swedishchamber.com.cn

Date: 7 November 2012 Location: Happy Valley Racecourse Lounge Adrenaline, Entrance between C and D DCC Hong Kong is inviting you to join them for an exciting evening of Horse racing at the Happy Valley Racecourse. Seats have been reserved at the racecourse lounge Adrenaline for you to enjoy the perfect view of all the races and easy access to buying your winning tickets. Price of HKD 290 includes access to Tapas buffet and choice of one signature drink or house drink. For registration, contact Jette at dcc@dcc.hk

Christmas celebrations Christmas is coming closer and it appears to be enough Christmas parties to attend. Finnish Business Council Shanghai is organising a Christmas Luncheon on 14 December 2012. For more information, visit www.fbcs.fi

Printing : Lake & Foundtain Printing Co., Ltd.

Danish Chamber of Commerce in South China is organising a Christmas Party on 24 November 2012. For more information, visit www.dccc.com.cn

Daily news and features here: www.scandasia.com

Danish Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong is organising a Christmas Ball on 15 December 2012. For more information, visit www.dcc.hk

Front cover image courtesy of Bjarne Wildau

Danish Chamber of Commerce in Shanghai is organising a Christmas Party on 8 December 2012. For more information, visit www.dccc.com.cn

Coming Events

Joint Chambers Breakfast seminar Date: 16 October 2012, 7.30 – 9.00am Location: Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit Price: THB 700 net for TFCC Members / THB 1,100 net for Non-members You are invited to a Joint Chambers Breakfast Seminar on the topic “Online Marketing and E-commerce” by Mr. Carl Heaton, founder of Web Courses. The seminar is about Online Marketing and E-commerce and the speaker will mainly talk about the Social Media Tools. Mr. Carl is the founder of Web Courses and a UX consultant for the United Nations. His projects include some of the biggest websites within the United Nations such as www.unescapsdd. org, www.unescap.org (launching soon) and soon he will also be working closely with UNAIDS. Interested people can sign up at secretary@swecham.com

DanCham 20th Anniversary Gala Dinner Celebration

Dansegalla in Cha Am

Date: 19 October 2012, 6.30pm Location: The Mandarin Oriental Bangkok - Royal Ballroom

Date: 21 – 23 October 2012 Location: Ballroom at Long Beach Hotel in Cha Am

Date: 27 October 2012, 2.30pm Location: Bangkok Patana School, Sukhumvit Soi 105

The Board of Directors of the Danish-Thai Chamber of Commerce is inviting members and friends of the chamber to celebrate their 20th Anniversary with top class entertainment from Denmark. The stylish Royal Thai Navy jazz band will keep you entertained throughout the sumptuous four-course dinner. Other entertainers at the event include the enthusiastic Copenhagen Drummers who will throw a unique show and famous DJ Paul Jackson will spin the dance tunes until late.

Norwegian travel agency OrkidéEkspressen is celebrating its 30th Anniversary this year by inviting well-known Norwegian Dance Orchestras to come and perform for the Norwegian community in Thailand. On October 21, PK & Dansefolket will perform - the price is THB 500 per person. A dinner plus performance from Lady & Landstryker’n will take place on October 22 – the price is THB 1,000 per person. And on the 23rd, Ingemars will perform – the price is THB 500 per person. Approximately 300 Norwegians from Norway have already signed up for this event. For further information, please visit our calendar list on www.scandasia.com to see the flyer.

The only Scandinavian football team in Bangkok, the Vikings, will take on a dreaded opponent in Bangkok Casuals Leagues 4th round. The rivalry between the two teams is at its maximum and if there is a game to watch in the beginning of the season, this is the one!

Dress code: Black tie/Dark suit - Elegant party dress Theme: Blue, red and white Price: THB 4,700 per person

Football: Vikings vs Anatolia

Swedish Golf Day Date: 3 November 2012 Location:Vintage Golf & Country Club Organised by Scandinavian Society Siam (SSS), the golf event is expected to draw approximately 60 to maximum 80 golfers, many of whom are SSS members. All golfers are required to pay their own green fee and caddie fee. Non SSS members are also invited to participate in the event in the “Guest & CC Group”. NonSSS members are required to pay a guest fee of THB 300. However, Thai-Swedish Chamber of Commerce (TSCC) will pay this Guest Fee on behalf of all TSCC members who wish to participate. The tournament will be followed by a dinner and prize presentation at the golf club. For more information, contact +66 2354 5229 or visit www.swecham.com October 2012 • ScandAsia.eMag 9

Coming Events

Introduction to Maritime Singapore Date: 19 October 2012 Place: Goodwood Park Hotel, Aroundel & Dover Room, 22 Scotts Road, Singapore 228221 Price: Member USD 70 Non-member: USD 80 The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) is organising an event to give an introduction to Maritime Singapore, which continues to be an important part of the Singapore economy, contributing to about 7% of Singapore’s Gross Domestic Product and employing over 170,000 people. MPA’s presentation will also share how Singapore can be a key partner to the international maritime community. The main speaker will be Ms. Tan Beng Tee, the Assistant Chief Executive (Development) of the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA). Ms. Tan oversees developmental matters pertaining to Singapore as an International Maritime Centre (IMC), MPA’s international ties and linkages, port policies and organisation-wide plans.

SBAS 30th Anniversary Gala Dinner

For more information, visit www.nbas.org.sg

For more information, contact swedbiz@singnet.com.sg

Date: 3 November 2012 Location: Hilton Singapore, 581 Orchard Road To celebrate the 30th anniversary of Swedish Business Association of Singapore (SBAS), the Midwinter ball will be held as a glamorous Gala Dinner with entertainments from Swedish celebrity and pop star Mans Zelmerlow and band. The pre-dinner cocktail will start at 6.30pm and a four-course dinner will start at 7.30pm. Dress code is black tie and sparking gold.

SWA: Deepavali Walk in Little India Date: 8 November 2012 Location: In front of Tekka Market at the junction of Buffalo Road and Serangoon Road Price: SGD 40 for members and SGD 45 for non-members plus SGD 2 per head for snacks/tea Scandinavian Women’s Association is organizing a Deepavali walk in Little India to celebrate the Festival of Lights, the most important festival for the Hindus. Join this walk to find out how the Hindus celebrate the colourful holiday. The three-hour tour will start with an overview of Tekka Market, one of Singapore’s biggest and best known as wet markets, and the journey will move on to Serangoon and its back streets. Participants can learn about history, beliefs and traditions of the Hindus here. Interested people are suggested to register by October 17 at btvilde@mail.tele.dk

The Annual Gentlemen’s Dinner Date: 23 November 2012 Location: Goodwood Park Hotel - Windsor Ballroom Hosted annually for the past 16 years, the dinner is an opportunity for gentlemen to connect with the Scandinavian community in Asia. Last year there were altogether 260 gentlemen in attendance. The only woman allowed at this prestigious event is the celebrity chef from Norway - Ingrid Espelid Hovig. Traditional Norwegian seafood dish “lutefish” will be served together with beer and Aquavit. Dress code is strictly black tie. For more information, visit www.nhstasia.com/sls/upcoming-events

10 ScandAsia.eMag • October 2012

Swedish Crayfish Party in Shanghai

he Swedish Chamber of Commerce together with the Swedish Club in Shanghai celebrated their annual crayfish party on 15 September 2012. Held at Paulaner Bräuhaus (Expo), more than 240 happy guests attended. The evening started with a welcoming drink and an array of appetizers indoors, to continue with crayfish and a buffet outdoors. Despite having had its fair share of rain scares the weather kept perfect for the duration of the event, with few clouds and a refreshing breeze. Like any traditional Swedish Crayfish party the mood was on top, as the crowd enjoyed the crayfish and sung the well-known Swedish snaps songs. Host for the evening was Martin Stenberg, whom together with the evening’s toastmaster, Andreas Lundstedt, kept the audience entertained throughout the night. Andreas Lundstedt is the frontrunner for the popular Swedish disco ensemble Alcazar was flown in from Sweden especially for this evening. After the crayfish, the guests were invited back indoors for dessert as well as a performance by Andreas Lundstedt who sang a few of his and Alcazar’s most well-known hits.

Past Events

Danish Minister held Seminar for Members of DCCC By Ida-Helene Bronner

le Sohn’s, Danish Minister of Business & Growth, recent trip to China focused primarily on maritime affairs and tourism. On Wednesday 29 August 2012, the members of the Danish Chamber of Commerce (DCCC) in Shanghai had the opportunity to meet with the minister and hear him present the Danish government’s recently initiated business and growth policy. The event attracted 50 participants from the Greater Shanghai region. Ole Sohn emphasized that the pro-active policy aims at strengthening the horizontal framework conditions for doing business in Denmark and at the same time focuses on growth conditions in the areas where the Danish businesses have greater strength and potential. This includes areas such as maritime affairs, creative industries, water, biological and environmental solutions, healthcare and welfare solutions. The speech was followed by a Q&A session where Ole Sohn elaborated on some subjects and in return asked the audience to present suggestions on what could be done to strengthen Danish growth. After the event a large group of people stayed for networking.

Danish ISS shared their Story with Members of DCC

laus Madsen, Regional Director of International Service Systems (ISS) Greater China, welcomed members of the Danish Chamber of Commerce (DCC) in Hong Kong at ISS’s office in Quarry Bay on 28 August, 2012 and gave an enjoyable presentation to the 26 attendees. A lot of people have heard of ISS, however, this event was an opportunity to get underneath the clean floors to find out what this company stands for and what their key success factors are. In brief, ISS (Copenhagen-Frederiksberg Night Watch as it was originally called), was founded in 1901 with the objective of keeping watch at different office locations during night time. Thirty three years later a cleaning service (Det Danske Rengøringsselskab) would be added, as owners found an opportunity to ensure that offices would never be unattended even after the watch patrols would leave at 4am, the cleaning team would be present until the employees would reenter in the morning. Later the company split into two companies, ISS and Security, which later became G4S. In 2005, ISS was taken private by EQT partners and Goldman Sachs Capital Partners. The same year ISS launched their strategy ‘The ISS Way’. Key success criteria of the ISS Way was to introduce Brand protection, Center of Excellence and Core Values (such as Honesty, Entrepreneurship, Quality, and Responsibility), as well as a more ‘soft side’ focusing on changing the employees’ perspective to see the bigger picture of their efforts and establish dedication by allowing them to unleash the power of human nature. The ISS vision is that leading facility services globally is by leading facility services locally. Claus Madsen finalized his presentation by a video focusing on ‘unleashing the power of human nature’, paying tribute to some of the thousands of ISS employees to the lovely tones of Keane ‘You don’t see me’. The presentation was followed by a great tapas buffet.

12 ScandAsia.eMag • October 2012

Breakfast seminar with Dr. Ewa Björling

Past Events

By Alexander de Freitas

espite the early hour, a lot of people were eager to hear the Swedish Minister of Trade, Dr. Ewa Björling, speak to the members of the Swedish Chamber of Commerce in China (SCCC) on Friday 14 September 2012. The event was held at the Radisson Blu in downtown Shanghai. Almost 45 listeners from just above 35 different companies turned up to hear a presentation by Dr. Ewa Björling on the Swedish-Chinese trade talks and for a chance to air their own concerns to the Trade Minister at the Q&A session ending the seminar. Dr. Ewa Björling said she would offer input on opportunities for strengthening free trade, decreasing protectionism, and dealing with issues that does not stimulate a free market economy. She continued by stating that a lot of western nations believe that China is a threat, but for Sweden – China is an opportunity. Sweden will continue its proud tradition of voting “no” on any petitions to limit free trade in the European Union, and fight against protectionism. On a question regarding the increased importance of the service sector in the Swedish export, Dr. Björling said that the service sector establishing in China will play a big part in Sweden’s goal to double Swedish exports in the coming decade. The increase in Swedish export will focus on new sectors and markets, therefore a greater focus will be on small- and medium-sized companies in such service sectors as creative- communication and marketing, as well as the fashion and gaming sectors. The gaming sector has seen extraordinary growth recently, performing well even during the economic crisis of 2008. Dr. Björling also mentioned the huge interest from China in Swedish clean-tech and green technology. To promote Swedish export there has been a focus on a different industry each month for 2012. A new promotional calendar for 2013 was released in the end of September.

FBCS annual golf tournament

n Friday 7 September, 2012, the Finnish Business Council in Shanghai (FBCS) hosted the annual golf tournament at Lakes Course, Binhai Golf Club in Nanhui. This year, they had 23 players with both ladies and gentlemen represented. Moreover, there were also participants from Suzhou. Despite a half-an-hour break due to the unplayable weather, participants enjoyed the game.

Results Best Scratch Hannu Suhonen (84) Best net, Men 1. Mika Narhi 73.6 2. Antti Oksala 74 3. Risto Tavia 74.8

Best net, Ladies 1. Marjukka Lemmetti 74.2 2. Sirpa Oksala 3. Riitu Kaartinen

Special competitions - Longest drive: Janne Tamminen - nearest the pin Matti Järvinen - nearest the pin 2nd shot (par 4) Timo Johansson The Peoria System was used in the tournament.

October 2012 • ScandAsia.eMag 13

Past Events

Huge turnout for Kick-off party By Rose Jensen

he Nordic Young Professionals Kick-off party was a success as usual. It was fantastic to see such a large number of people interested in this event as there were more than 140 attendees present at Speakeasy Rooftop (Hotel Muse, Bangkok) on the evening of Friday 31 August 2012. While hor d’oeuvres, cocktails and lots of Carlsberg beer were circulated amongst the young professionals, there were plenty of opportunities for attendees to expand their networks due to the presence of many newcomers at the event, which was the best kick start for the new season that allowed everyone to meet new friends and maybe even a business partner? In addition to networking, attendees had a chance to win prizes, including a big box of Carlsberg beer - and who would turn down an opportunity like that? Sponsors of the evening included Carlsberg, Visit Beyond, Easycard, DanCham, DTAC, Italasia and Hotel Muse. But the surprises did not end with lucky draw. Soon after giving out prizes to the lucky winners, the ‘staff’ of Hotel Muse revealed their identities as professional singers and performed opera for the stunned audience.

Norwegian GSP scheme seminar

rganised by the Thai Ministry of Commerce in Bangkok, more than 100 representatives of Thai exporting companies took part in a seminar on the Norwegian GSP scheme (Generalized System of Preferences) on 10 September 2012. Deputy Director General Cecilie Alnæs and Senior Adviser Susann Nilsen from the Norwegian Directorate of Customs and Excise gave a detailed briefing on how Thai companies may use the system to get preferential treatment of goods being exported to Norway. The GSP system is an offer allowing the poorest countries in the world the opportunity to export their goods free of duty or with reduced duty rates. For more information about the Norwegian scheme, see www.toll.no. There is considerable potential of increasing bilateral trade between Norway and Thailand. 14 ScandAsia.eMag • October 2012

The possibility of restarting negotiations on a free trade agreement between Thailand and EFTA (the European Free Trade Area, consisting of Switzerland, Norway, Iceland and Lichtenstein),

which were put on hold in 2006, is now being explored. For more information about EFTA, see www.efta.int

New Two Chefs openings on Phuket

Past Events

By Joakim Persson

n late July, Two Chefs on Phuket premiered their third restaurant in Kata, as well as an additional outlet in Karon, offering a mix of bakery and dining. Since the trio of Swedish owners opened their first restaurant in July 2001 they have expanded slowly but surely. In 2012, their business has entered a stage of faster growth, and they’ve opened a brand new catering business plus two new restaurants and a bakery. The Two Chefs’ international dishes, Scandinavian specialties and exquisite modern-style Thai food are a big draw for Scandinavians and even more so for tourists from Australia and New Zealand. Offering a slightly different concept to their other venues, the new Two Chefs bistro in Kata is located away from the tourist crowds and has more moderate pricing. New menu items include the Danish smørrebrød, and Swedish teacake sandwiches with fillings such as homemade liver pate, boiled eggs and Kalles caviar – favourites on any Scandinavian breakfast menu. The second new restaurant, with bakery, is situated on Patak road, not far from the Karon Temple. Also new is the Two Chefs Catering service, offering anything from delivery of food to family gatherings to full-scale events.

Skipper Niels ends third in Phuket Race By Joakim Persson

he 9th edition of Cape Panwa Hotel Phuket Raceweek ends in success at new venue. Skipper and boat builder Niels Degenkolw (Denmark) did not win his racing class, IRC Racing II, in this year’s Cape Panwa Hotel Phuket Raceweek, but finished a good third. He did however win a painting with a sailing motif in an auction, as another excellent sailing week came to an end, having moved to Cape Panwa on Phuket’s east coast this year. This new venue offered a coconut palm-fringed garden by the beach as venue for the daily prize award ceremonies and parties. The Presenting Sponsor Mount Gay Rum (a sponsor of regattas the world over)made sure the race week’s opening party was entertaining by taking the guests on journey with dancers showcasing traditional dances from the West Indies and the Pacific Ocean islands. Having won the second Race 2 on the third day of racing, the Phuket resident Niels and his crew on board Phoenix ended third overall after the last day which saw 10-12 knots of breeze gusting to 15, and some spectacular competition. The boats Skandia Endeavour of Whitby and Phoenix had started the day tied on points with all to play for. But after some surprise results, and perhaps with some less experienced team members in Niels’ crew playing part in the tougher conditions with stronger winds, Phoenix came third overall. Before the competition started Niels had told ScandAsia he hoped for moderate winds. 34 entries and over 500 participants from around the world took part in the 2012 Cape Panwa Hotel Phuket Raceweek. Niels is a regular attendant at the region’s many annual regattas.

1. 2.

Phoenix boat with is owner / skipper Niels DegenKolw NielsDegenKolw on stage (to the left) with artist Robin Gillow. Niels won the painting in the charity auction for Kids Sailing October 2012 • ScandAsia.eMag 15

Past Events

Swedish Consulate officially opens in Hua Hin By Wachiraporn Janrut

n Friday 14 September 2012, the Swedish Consulate in Hua Hin officially opened at the Dusit Thani Hua Hin in the presence of Swedish Ambassador Mr. Klas Molin, Petchaburi Governor Khun Vinai Buapradit, local government authorities, high ranked police officers and many Swedes living in Hua Hin. The honorary consul is Khun Victor Sukseree, General Manager of the Dusit Thani Hua Hin Hotel. Swedish Ambassador Mr. Klas Molin thanked local authorities for their cooperation and stressed the unique and strong relationship between Thailand and Sweden. He finished his speech with an informal quote made by Sweden’s Minister of Foreigner Affairs, Mr. Carl Bildt, when he met Thailand’s Prime Minister Yingluck shinawatra in April this year: “Regardless of the distance apart, we are actually neighboring countries. I don’t think we have as many Swedes visiting Norway, Denmark, or Finland as we do have here in Thailand.” The second speaker was Petchaburi’s Governor Khun Vinai Buapradit “I’m pleased with the strong relationship between the two countries and would like to welcome Swedes who live in the areas. Congratulations on having the consulate here,” said Khun Vinai. The new consul Khun Victor Sukseree was the last person giving a speech before the ribbon was cut. “It’s an honor and privileged to be appointed this honorable position,” said Khun Victor. “More importantly, it’s a great pleasure for me to be of service to the local Swedish community. After a dinner, Chairman of Swedish Association in Hua Hin Mr. Gert Andersson expressed his delight with the establishment of the new consulate. According to him, the Swedish association in Hua Hin has over 800 members. He also handed a basket filled with Swedish delicacies to Khun Victor.

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Past Events

Swedish networking at Huntsman’s Pub By Rose Jensen

ost Swedes are finally back from their summer break and on 13 September 2012, the Swedish Chamber of Commerce in Thailand kick started the season with their first networking evening. The event was held at the usual venue, Huntsman’s Pub, which is located in the basement of Landmark Hotel in Bangkok. The sponsor of the evening was the largest, oldest, and most international technical university in Sweden, KTH. The university’s educational exchange programs allow for exchange with universities and colleges in Europe, Australia, the U.S., and increasingly throughout Asia. Approximately 40 Swedes and a few other nationalities showed up for networking as well as catching up on the latest news. Most importantly, “Pyttipanna”, a dish Swedes socially enjoy eating, was served as this has become a tradition of the Chamber’s networking.

Successful CSR and Business Seminar Myanmar

n Tuesday 28 August 2012 the Danish Embassy in Bangkok hosted a four-day event which focused on CSR and business in Burma/Myanmar. The first day which was free of charge, served as an introduction to general CSR, whilst the second day covered Myanmarspecific issues and, finally, a number of the participants travelled to Burma/Myanmar to obtain in-dept knowledge and forge local partnerships. The attendants were greeted by H.E. Mr. Ambassador Mikael Hemniti Winther and Mr. Bo Bjerregaard Rasmussen, Commercial Counselor at the Royal Danish Embassy. Amongst the attendants, several companies and organizations were represented and the non-formal atmosphere ensured an exceptionally active audience and lively discussions. In between the presentations, the attendants could enjoy the beautiful surroundings at the Ambassador’s residence and garden including delicious Danish pastry.

October 2012 • ScandAsia.eMag 17

Past Events

MASBA’s annual Ambassadors Dinner

n cooperation with Svenska Handelsbanken, the Malaysian-Swedish Business Association (MASBA) hosted its annual Ambassadors Dinner at Hilton Sentral in Kuala Lumpur on 19 September 2012. MASBA had the great pleasure of welcoming Sweden’s new Ambassador H.E. Bengt G Carlsson to the dinner. Business leaders and representatives of Swedish and Malaysian companies gathered to network and meet with the new Ambassador. After some introductory speeches and mingle, the 70 guests had the honor of listening to Handelsbankens’ Chief Economist Mr. Jan Haggstrom on the topic of world economy. Hilton’s Chef Michael Elwfing prepared a well-composed menu with Swedish influences such as smoked salmon and Chantresse soup. During the dinner MASBA introduced its four new members which are BHIC Bofors, SMT Technologies, Lundin Malaysia and SAAB International. The evening finished with a Q&A session on world economy.

SSM celebrated Crayfish Party

he Scandinavian Society Malaysia (SSM) hosted its annual Crayfish Party on 15 September 2012 at Tropicana Golf & Country Club in Malaysia. Approximately 104 Scandinavians and their friends turned up and mingled around. Freshly cooked crayfish and snaps, hand carried from Scandinavia, as well as some other goodies on the buffet were available for guests to enjoy. After the lucky draw and dessert, guests headed out on the dance floor to work it all off. Judging by the photos, everybody had a good time. Sponsors of this year’s crayfish party are Asian Tigers, Rosendahl and Gardner & Wife Theater.

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Past Events

PETRAD held seminar on Carbon Capture and Storage

he Norwegian International Programme for Petroleum Management and Administration (PETRAD) organized a seminar on Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS), held in Bali on 12-14 September 2012. The event gathered experts from government agencies, national oil companies and academia from East and Southeast Asia. Experts shared current state-of-the-art knowledge about CCS, and discussed opportunities for utilizing CCS in the region. Participants came from Indonesia, Japan, Korea, China, Vietnam, Philippines, Thailand, Malaysia, Cambodia, Myanmar, PNG, Timor-Leste, as well as presenters from Australia, UK and Norway. The new Ambassador to the Norwegian Embassy in Indonesia, Stig Traavik opened the seminar by addressing that CO2 capture and storage will play an essential role in the development of a more sustainable energy system for the future, and as a possible way of mitigating climate change. Furthermore, he stressed that the technological challenges involved with CCS can only be achieved through broad international cooperation. Governments, research institutions, the energy industry, international and national organisations must all be actively engaged. He indicated that the Norwegian embassy is willing to explore ways to actively support such R&D activities. Concerning the issue of a global CO2 tax, he argued that such a mechanism might offer the needed incentives to implement CO2 reductions of the scale that is required.

Ambassador Stig Traavik also shared some of the lessons learned by the Norwegian oil & gas sector, and argued that knowledge gained from the Norwegian Technology Centre Mongstad will prepare the ground for more CO2 capture initiatives to combat climate change.

SWEA’s annual Crayfish Party

wedish Women’s Educational Association (SWEA) in Singaporeorganized the Annual Swedish Crayfish Party on 15 September 2012 at Blooies Roadhouse & Grill. 73 guests showed up and enjoyed fresh crayfish, Swedish snaps, beers and house. Many of them danced along with the loud music at the party. 1st picture: From left MalinNoren, Charlotte Huston, MalinGrafström-Wilhelmson 2nd picture: From left Camilla, and David Lundberg. in printed dress IngerNordlund, Mats Hedin and IkaForsell.

October 2012 • ScandAsia.eMag 19

Past Events

Tom Kristensen guest at Nordic Golf Tournament 2012 By Kim Birkkjaer Lund

special guest added stardust to this year’s Nordic Golf Tournament in Singapore. Danish race driver and 8 times Le Mans winner Tom Kristensen was in Singapore together with another enthusiastic golfer, journalist Jens Hansen, as commentators on the Singapore Formula 1 grand prix for Viasat. Henrik Ziegler, President of The Danish Business Association of Singapore (Dabs), who loves motorsport and is a regular visitor at Le Mans, had invited both Tom Kristensen and Jens Hansen to participate in the Nordic Golf Tournament. The three of them together with fourth man Kim Nikolajsen had their own internal match, which was won by Henrik Ziegler with Jens Hansen coming second and Tom Kristensen third, leaving Kim Nikolajsen as fourth. “I had a slow start, but my play improved significantly towards the end of the game. I made a birdie at hole 16 and pairs at hole 15 and 17,” Tom Kristensen told after the match. But none of those four won any the many nice prizes from the tournament’s sponsors. Although Henrik Ziegler would have scored 41 points if his personal handicap had been used, the tournament is determined by a system called double peoria calculating a one day handicap for all players based on their score on 12 of the 18 holes, which must have provided Ziegler with a lower than usual handicap.

Danish victory by proxy This year’s winner Giancarlo Roggiolani is Italian, he participated as regional manager at Grundfos. A circumstance that pleased organizer and toastmaster Oliver Andersen, who was in charge of this year’s successful tournament. “It looked good after the first few holes, but then my putting went totally wrong. I think what saved me was that I stated swearing heavily in Italian,” Giancarlo Roggiolani said when he received the price. It probably also helped him winning that he made birdies at both hole three and nine. More than 90 Scandinavians and business associates to Scandinavian firms had chosen to spend Thursday 20th September and 300 Singapore dollar on participating in the Nordic Golf Tournament 2012 at the lavish Laguna National Golf and Country Club.

1. 2. 3.

SWA’s Ladies Lunch

he Ladies Lunch, held at the Jim Thompson Restaurant on Minden Road in Singapore, gathered approximately 16 women from Scandinavian Women’s Association (SWA) on 25 September 2012. Most of the ladies had already met each other for Coffee in the morning at the Danish Seamen’s Church. “It was a very cozy lunch with many new faces and it was wonderful to see so many spirited and enthusiastic people at one spot,” says Lisa Thrane from SWA.

20 ScandAsia.eMag • October 2012

Tom Kristensen shared golf cart with Dabs President Henrik Ziegler. Tom Kristensen drive at hole one. The overall winner of the tournament was this year Giancarlo Roggiolani who participated as regional manager at Grundfos.

Nordic Embassies participated in Europe Fair 2012 By Rose Jensen

he four Nordic Embassies were among the 11 European states represented at the Study in Europe Fair 2012 Singapore which was held at the Hilton Hotel on 15 September 2012. Organised by the Delegation of the European Union to Singapore, the fair seeks to attract top students who want to pursuetheir education in post graduate programmes in Europeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s top international universities. There were approximately 1,200 students visiting the fair. Throughout the day, students collected materials and talked to university representatives they were interested in. According to the Embassiesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; websites, all booths were very well visited.

October 2012 â&#x20AC;˘ ScandAsia.eMag 21

News Brief

Volvo cuts costs and strives to improve demand in China

Ida Auken promotes Danish water solutions in China

n 24 September 2012 Ida Auken, Danish Minister for the Environment met with Chen Lei, Chinese Minister for Water Resources in Zhengzhou to discuss the relationship between Denmark and China regarding water resources, and the future plans for the bilateral relationship in the area.

cquired by Chinese firm Geely from Ford in 2010, Volvo Car Corporation announced on 14 September 2012 it would cut up to 400 temporary consultant positions and has reportedly issued an ultimatum to its Swedish suppliers to reduce prices by 20 percent before 2015. The company aims to quadruple sales in China and has a plan to purchase more from Chinese suppliers. Volvo said that the reason behind phasing out of technical consultant positions was the completion of work on updating its car models. “By using highly skilled technical consultants in our engineering operations we have the flexibility to tailor the workforce to short-term needs in our car projects,” said Peter Mertens, Senior Vice President, Research and Development at Volvo. Meanwhile, according to Swedish economic newspaper Dagens Industri, the car maker is leaning on suppliers to reduce costs. Volvo sold 449,000 vehicles in 2011, half of which were sold in Europe. The company aims to quadruple sales in China to 200,000 vehicles a year from 47,000 sold in 2011. Volvo has been struggling to improve demand, and announced in early September that it lost 254 million kronor ($38.5 million) in the first half. Maschka did not confirm his ultimatum to Dagens Industri but said he hopes to increase the company’s supply from China in order to meet the 2020 sales target. “We are planning to buy about 25 percent from Chinese suppliers. We will reinforce our cooperation with Geely over our purchases in China,” he said.

Planning the future through dialogue After the meeting, Auken participated in the ChinaEurope Water Platform (CEWP) High Level Event. The CEWP was established by China and EU earlier this year with a Chinese-Danish lead, to set the focus on how Europe can participate in solving the challenges China has in the water area.

Building up platforms for further collaboration On 25 September Auken gave a speech at the opening ceremony of the 5th International Yellow River Forum and also talked at the CEWP Thematic Session on Groundwater Management at the forum. After the forum the Minister flew to Chongqing to open the Chongqing-Denmark Water Days 2012. On 26 September Minister Auken had a bilateral meeting with Minister of Environmental Protection, Mr. Zhou Shengxian, in Beijing.

China to build LNG-powered vessels for Norway

hina’s Tsuji Heavy Industries recently held the steel cutting ceremony for a LNG-fuelled multipurpose vessel for Norwegian ro-ro operator Nor Lines. It is the first of two natural gas-powered (LNG) vessels that will cut emissions of NOx by 90 percent and CO2 by percent. Norway is a world leader in use and development of LNG shipping technology. Natural gas LNG-vessels are more environmental friendly options from today’s standard diesel engines. The 22 ScandAsia.eMag • October 2012

concept currently being built by Tsuji was developed in cooperation with Rolls-Royce, one of the world’s main ship engine developers based in Norway. In 2011 the concept won the “Next Generation Ship Award” during Nor-Shipping. The two vessels that will be built by Tsuji are both 5000 dead weight tons, and use LNG as fuel instead of bunker fuel. This will reduce CO2 emissions by between 35 and 40%, and Nitric oxide (NOx) by 90 to 95%, and eliminate SOx (sulfur) and soot particle emissions completely. The environmentalfriendly technology is also more energy efficient, saving costs on top of cutting emissions. Completion is expected in October 2013, and the vessels will traffic the North Sea carrying cargo from Germany and The Netherlands to several delivery ports along the Norwegian coast. The ships will be classed by DNV, which has been instrumental in developing safe technologies and standards for LNG as a shipping fuel.

News Brief

Danish PM met with Wen Jiabao

efore attending the World Economic Forum (WEF) on 11 September 2012, Danish PM Helle Thorning-Schmidt met with Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao in Tianjin. The purpose of the meeting was to strengthen the bilateral relations between Denmark and China. Premier Wen gave Thorning-Schmidt a warm welcome. He said that China wants to further promote the cooperation between the two countries in such areas as trade, agriculture, environmental protection, tourism, maritime issues and culture. Thorning-Schmidt emphasized the importance of the bilateral relationship between the two countries and was committed to develop the strategic partnership between Denmark and China. She explained she would like to have closer cooperation with China in all areas. She would also create better conditions for Chinese companies investing in Denmark.

The European social model is worth fighting for After a meeting with Wen Jiabao, the Danish PM participated in WEF where she spoke at two panels. The first one “European Crisis, Global Impact” was attended by more than 400 participants. Helle ThorningSchmidt made it clear that the European model will be maintained. “A fundamental goal is to ensure that the social market economies of Europe can be sustained. I believe the European social model based on core values of solidarity, safety nets and equal opportunity is worth fighting for.” The Danish PM also spoke at the panel ‘Championing Competitiveness’, which discussed factors that drive the success of competitiveness champions across the globe. This session was interactive with 60-100 CEO’s participating.

Fisker Karma to enter the Chinese market

fter successful introductions in the American and European markets, California-based Fisker Automotive plans to introduce “Fisker Karma,” said to be one of the world’s sexiest electric and environmental friendly cars, to the Chinese market. Fisker Automotive has manufacturing operations in Finland. According to founder and designer Henrik Fiske, the company has set a launch date for its Karma sport cars to enter the Chinese market in November this year. Fisker Karma is one of the world’s first production plug-in hybrid electric luxury vehicles. Danish designer Fisker has made his name from creating the BMW Z8 and the V8 Vantage and DB9 for Aston Martin before branching out on his own, said industry veteran Joe Chao who was appointed as executive vice president and CEO of Fisker Automotive in China and Asia operation.

Norwegian concept for China Eastern Airlines’ new headquarter

52 Danish companies in Tianjin On the same day, Thorning-Schmidt also had a meeting with Party Secretary at CPC Tianjin Municipality Committee, Zhang Gaoli, where they discussed the economic activity in the Tianjin municipality of Danish companies. With 52 Danish companies located in the Tianjin-area, the area is considered the most popular region in China in terms of investments from Denmark. At World Economic Forum, Thorning-Schmidt also had bilateral meetings with the Prime Minister of Pakistan, Raja Pervez Ashraf, as well as Klaus Schwab, the director of World Economic Forum.

orwegian architect firm Niels Torp has won the competition to build China Eastern Airlines new headquarter in Shanghai. The new headquarter will consist of 13 connected buildings with a total space of 225,000 sqm. The size of the construction site is 66,000 sqm located at Hongquiao airport in Shanghai.

Shaped as a flower From the bird-eye view, the new headquarter will look like a flower. “We have made a very different concept for this project. Most buildings in Shanghai are often box-like. Though the construction size is enormous, there are Green space areas separating the buildings as well as a park surrounding the area,” says Niels Torp. The concept of buildings separated by green areas and surrounded by park was used by Niels Torp Architects for building British Airways headquarter in London. The project is expected to be completed in two or three years. October 2012 • ScandAsia.eMag 23

News Brief

Launch of “Long Live the King of Thailand” medals by Mint of Finland

o celebrate His Majesty the King’s 84th birthday, “Long Live the King of Thailand” medals have recently been released by Mint of Finland. With the new technology applied, the medals represent the design of His Majesty the King’s graphic images. The aim is to reinforce unity among Thai nationals as many of His Majesty the King’s projects help elevate the quality of life of Thai people. Designed by M.L. Chiratorn Chirapravati under the theme “Circle of Life”, Mint of Finland released the medals in three styles: Plidok (meaning

blossom), Romyen (meaning peace), and Okpon (meaning bloom). One side of all medals comes with the words “H.M. KING BHUMIBOL ADULYADEJ’S 84TH BIRTHDAY ANNIVERSARY”, where the other side has the line that says “LONG LIVE THE KING OF THAILAND”. For a set of three medals in a well-designed package, the price is THB 4,999. All proceeds after expenses deduction will be offered to His Majesty the King.

Denmark and China collaborate in maritime study

n 13 September 2012 Danish Prime Minister H.E. Helle Thorning-Schmidt, Danish and Chinese officials, and high level representatives, including CEOs and specialists, from the Danish and Chinese maritime industry attended a Sino-Danish Maritime event in Shanghai. Organised by Danish Maritime, Danish Export Association and Ministry of Foreign Affairs Denmark and funded by Danish Maritime Fund, the objective of the event was to discuss and share opinions on the future of Danish-Chinese maritime industry. The speakers all shared their perspectives on the short-, middle- and long-term future for shipbuilding globally. The discussion on how Denmark and China can collaborate for benefits for both countries took place. “In Denmark we base ourselves on international regulations for the maritime industry, and we believe in high standards. I know that China is also a strong supporter of international rules and quality shipping. That is why I truly believe that continued dialogue, more trade and increased cooperation between our nations is very important to both our countries. I am certain that we will be able to make use of the opportunities before us, and work even closer together in the future for our mutual benefit,” states the Danish Prime Minister. Among the participating guests also included Danish Ambassador to China, Mr. Friis Arne Petersen, Danish Consul General to China, Mr. Karsten Ankjær Jensen, Chairman of Shanghai International Port Group, Mr. Chen Xuyuan, CEO of Danish Maritime, Ms. Jenny N. Braat, CEO of Maersk Terminals, A.P. Moeller Maersk, and Kim Fejfer. 24 ScandAsia.eMag • October 2012

News Brief

HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn visits the Norwegian pavilion

RH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn was guided by Erik Svedahl, Minister Counsellor, and Axel Blom, Innovation Norway, when she visited the Norwegian pavilion at Thailand’s National Science Week at BITEC convention centre in August. Designed after the official profile of Norway, the Norwegian pavilion showcased flood defence systems from AquaFence and environmental technologies. Organised by the National Science Museum, “National Science and Technology Fair 2012” was held for two weeks in August aiming to support and encourage the youth and people who are interested in learning about sciences and technologies and to show how technologies have played an important role in everyday life. The event consisted of three major activities; science and technology exhibition, edutaining science experience, and science seminar. The highlight of the events included an exhibition in honor of “His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej”, Royal Pavilion, The Father of Thai Science and Technologies, Disaster Prevention, The Bus 4D Simulator, and Earth & Universe. The fair drew over 1.2 million visitors.

SAS suspends Bangkok route from April 2013 By Rose Jensen

n order to free up capacity for the new San Francisco route, SAS has taken the decision to suspend the season flight route from Copenhagen to Bangkok. The SAS flight-route between Copenhagen and Bangkok has been the topic of guesswork and speculation since the airline, in early July, announced its intention of opening a route to San Fransisco and intensifying departures to/from New York. Flights to San Fransisco will be serviced by Airbus A340-300 planes, which SAS is already using on their Asia-routes – Bangkok, Beijing, Shanghai and Tokyo. Now SAS has finally confirmed that the route between Copenhagen and Bangkok will become a winter route. For this reason, departures will be suspended from 8 April next year. The decision is made against the backdrop of decreasing numbers of business travelers heading for Bangkok, as opposed to USA, and therefore the New York and San Francisco routes will be assigned priority. “Copenhagen – Bangkok is a route with a decidedly lower share of business travelers compared to other travelers, when seen in comparison with most other destinations. During the summer months in particular, profitability is higher on the North American destinations than on the Bangkok-route,” Simon Pauck Hansen, VP Partners & Intercontinental Network with SAS, explains. October 2012 • ScandAsia.eMag 25

News Brief

Danish Ambassador inaugurates Georg Jensen’s new building

Danish Minister leads business delegation to Myanmar

eorg Jensen has expanded their existing facilities in Thailand with a new building. The building was inaugurated by Danish Ambassador H.E. Mikael Hemniti Winther on 20 August 2012. The extended building is over 2,000 sqm on three floors. The Ambassador had a tour at the factory and learned about jewellery manufacturing from a leading Scandinavian luxury brand.

Thai culture at Olso’s Kulturnatt

s part of Oslo’s annual ‘Kulturnatt’ (Culture Night), Thai Ambassador to Norway Mr. Theerakun Niyom and the Thai Ministry of Culture invited dozens of local officials, business associates and a few journalists on board the classic Norwegian vessel Johanna, for an evening of dance, music and, a literal taste of culinary culture. This year’s Oslo Kulturnatt event was held in the middle of September, featuring concerts and entertainments all over town. However, an entirely different cultural offering was playing out on the Oslo Fjord as the Thai ambassador, who has been in Oslo for six months, wanted to share some of his country’s culture with Norwegians.

26 ScandAsia.eMag • October 2012

anish Minister for trade and investment Pia Olsen Dyhr is keen to create contacts and open doors to businesses in Myanmar. In December this year she will visit the country together with a business delegation with special focus on solutions in energy, water, infrastructure and healthcare. Developments have been fast ever since the European Union lifted its sanctions against Myanmar in April of this year. The move was in recognition of political developments towards democracy. With the suspension of the sanctions, the last major untouched market in Asia with a population of nearly 60 million has been opened for international – and subsequently Danish - business.

News Brief

Saab enhances Thailand’s strong forces By Wachiraporn Janrut

n 2008, Royal Thai Air Force ordered 12 Gripen fighter aircrafts from Saab, where six of them were delivered in February last year. According to Jane’s defense and security news website, as part of the purchase plan of USD 1,100 million, Royal Thai Air Force will receive the second batch of six Gripen fighter aircrafts from Sweden next year, in which they will have another 340 airborne early warning system. In August this year, four Thai pilots have completed the Gripen conversion training course by Swedish Armed Force. Swedish Air Force Commander Major General Micael Byden handed certifications to the four pilots who will be based in Wing 7 division in Surathani province in Thailand. They are, in fact, the third batch of pilots from Royal Thai Air Force to enter the training. Royal Thai Air Force is the first air force in Southeast Asia to have JAS 39 Gripen base. According to the press release on Saabgroup.com dated 26 September 2012, Saab has received an order from the Royal Thai Navy for the upgrading of the Combat Systems on the frigates H.T.M.S. Naresuan and H.T.M.S Taksin. The order amounts to THB 2,520 million (approximately SEK 550 million). Running between 2012 and 2015, the contract is a continuation of an on-going program contracted to Saab by the Royal Thai Navy in 2011. The contract adds additional sights and communications equipment to complete the combat suite on the two frigates. The upgrade will allow interoperability between naval and airborne units.

“Saab is now on the Navy’s three major vessels and with data links to the Royal Thai Air Force’s Gripen and Erieye, capabilities and resources can be used more efficiently,” says Gunilla Fransson, Head of Saab’s Business Area Security and Defence Solutions. Jane’s news also reported that Royal Thai navy also has a plan to purchase two frigates of 2,000 – 3,000 tons with a minimum speed of +25 knots, a missile system and a helipad for a helicopter of 10 tons. The navy has an eye on the ones produced in Korea and Germany.

Saab’s plan According to a news report in the Swedish daily Business World, Saab’s Head of Gripen Exports Eddy de la Motte says that Saab’s goal is to export at least 300 Gripens within the next ten years. “If this objective is achieved, Saab will have 10 percent of the available market,” Saab’s Head of Gripen Exports Eddy de la Motte adds. At the moment, Gripen sales are accounted for 240 aircrafts from six countries including Sweden, Thailand, United Kingdom, Chez Republic, Hungary and South Africa. The company aims to export more to the European market, Latin America and Asia. The company speculates that Royal Thai Air Force might plan to buy up to 40 Gripens in the future, reported SaabGroup.com.

October 2012 • ScandAsia.eMag 27

News Brief Vice-President of the National Assembly Ms. Nguyen Thi Kim Ngan centered with the members of the Danish delegation of MP’s led by Mr. Eyvind Vesselbo. To the far left, Ambassador John Nielsen.

Roundtable discussions

Danish MPs met with Vietnamese counterparts

Danish Member of Parliament (MP) delegation visited Vietnam in September as part of the bilateral relations between the parliaments of the two countries. The Danish MPs met with The Vice-President of the National Assembly Ms. Nguyen Thi Kim Ngan, who highly valued the delegation’s working visit as a contribution to strengthening exchanges and cooperation between the two countries and the two legislative bodies.

The Danish delegation was headed by Eyvind Vesselbo, who highlighted Vietnam’s achievements in the cause of national construction and development, particularly in poverty reduction, adding that the two sides need to boost cooperation in trade, investment, education and training. The Danish delegation also met with the Law Committee of the NA and with Vice-ministers of the Ministry of Industry and Trade and of Construction.

The Danish MPs had two days of intense and fruitful roundtable discussions with members of the National Assembly, on subjects as the constitutional amendment process in Vietnam, parliamentary oversight, committee hearings and green growth. As part of the discussions on green growth the two MP delegations met with the Vice-Chairman of Quang Nam’s People’s Committee to learn about the climate and environmental challenges facing that particular province. They also visited Cu Lao Cham Islands to learn how targeted programmes can improve the livelihood of individual households while at the same time increasing fish stocks. The MPs discussed the Danish experience of achieving economic growth without increasing energy consumption – and the role that MPs play in promoting green growth strategies, policies and legislation. At the closing of the roundtable discussions both delegations expressed their desire to see more “green” issues on the agenda of future exchanges between the two countries’ legislative bodies.

Vietnam-Finland Innovation Partnership Programme

anagers and experts both at home and abroad on 12 September 2012 gathered at a seminar in Hanoi to discuss the implementation of the Vietnam-Finland Innovation Partnership Programme (IPP). The programme was launched in 2009 in eight cities and provinces of Hanoi, Haiphong, Danang, Hue, Ho Chi Minh City, Can Tho, Lam Dong and An Giang. The first phase of the project costs a total of nearly EUR7 million with 89 percent of the budget coming from the Finnish Government. After three years of implementation, 56 sub-projects out of 61 ratified ones are getting underway. At the seminar, Finnish Ambassador Kimmo Lahdevirta said the project has significantly contributed to encouraging innovation initiatives, raising effectiveness of cooperation between scientists and businesses, and boosting the scientific and tech28 ScandAsia.eMag • October 2012

nological partnership between the two countries. Taking businesses as the centre, IPP has paid special attention to enterprises run by female leaders and those focusing on rural areas, the ambassador said. He underlined the need for Vietnam to upgrade its information system to deal

with issues regarding State management during the implementation of the project. It is also necessary for the two sides to expand the project’s scale to maximise the effectiveness of innovation in Vietnam, the diplomat said. The two sides agreed to continue their cooperation during the second phase of the project which will last from February to August next year. The project aims to help Vietnam become an industrialised nation with the middle-income status, a knowledge-based economy and a national innovative system actively serving socio-economic development.

News Brief

Danish Ambassador Fit for running

ohn Nielsen, Danish ambassador to Vietnam likes running to keep himself fit for fight. Last month, he joined the Sa Pa Half Marathon which was held for the first time in the mountains around Sa Pa in the middle of September. The peoble behind the Marathon was Red River Runners from Hanoi and supported by the Danish owned Topaz Ecolodge. The Topaz Eco lodge hotel was one of the first projects in SA Pa to develop tourism and it was supported by the Danish government sector program.

His Excellency Deputy Prime Minister Keat Chhon, Minister of Economy and Finance, and Her Excellency Anne Höglund, Ambassador of Sweden to Cambodia at the signing of the Agreement.

Sweden’s aid to Cambodia

n 5 September 2012, an Agreement on Development Cooperation between Sweden and Cambodia was signed in Phnom Penh by His Excellency Deputy Prime Minister Keat Chhon, Minister of Economy and Finance, and Her Excellency Anne Höglund, Ambassador of Sweden to Cambodia. Sweden has been supporting Cambodia since the fall of the Khmer Rouge regime in 1979. According to the Swedish embassy’s homep-

age, the amount of SEK 200 million per year is a just a prolongation of the aid given in the last three years. Furthermore, the prolonging was decided by the Swedish Government on 8 March 2012. The Agreement covers the period of 2012-2013. The amount of Swedish support for the two-year period is SEK 400 million (approximately EURO 40 million or USD 57 million). The support is provided as a grant. The purpose of the agreement

is to strengthen opportunities for sustainable and democratic development and to increase respect for human rights in Cambodia. The areas of Swedish support include: 1) education, 2) democratic development and respect for human rights, and 3) climate. In 2009 Sweden granted SEK 190 million in aid to Cambodia. In 2010 Sweden granted SEK 177 million in aid to Cambodia. In 2011 Sweden granted SEK 200 million in aid to Cambodia October 2012 • ScandAsia.eMag 29

News Brief Growth Action Plan for Vietnam:

New business opportunities for Danish companies

n the future, Danish companies looking to investigate in the Vietnamese market may be able to get first hand practical advice from the Danish Embassy’s new Advisory Board. The Board is composed of selected business representatives of Danish companies in Vietnam who are willing to share their experiences of managing a company set-up in Vietnam and function as a sparring partner for the Danish companies new to Vietnam and thus supplement the existing advisory services of the Danish Embassy. If successful, the Advisory Board

could be one of the initiatives to be included in the Danish Government’s Growth Action Plan for Vietnam, which is currently being drafted. The purpose of the Growth Action Plan is to stimulate exports from Denmark to Vietnam through concrete initiatives promoting Danish strongholds and building institutional relations between Danish and Vietnamese stakeholders. Some of the future potential growth sectors in Vietnam could be within the green growth area, agricultural sector, fisheries, food industry and health.

The Danish Embassy in Vietnam is at the moment in the process of consulting the Danish business community in Vietnam on this Action Plan, receiving input and advice on future initiatives to strengthen the market opportunities for Danish companies in Vietnam. Opportunities do obviously exist judging by the more than 50% increase in exports from Denmark to Vietnam in 2011.

Swedish snuff from Laos

ddiction to snuff tobacco made Petter Svensson into an entrepreneur in snuffproduction in Laos. The snuffproduction isn’t his main business, he is Industry Division Manager at Burapha Agroforestry Co, Ltd, but to satisfy his addiction he had to set up his own production. It took two years of experiments and failure before he felt the product was right. Next, he started wondering if there was a commercial marked for the product so he set up a company and registered the brand “Pioneer Snuff”. “It has become a very good product. But being a small newcomer, we can’t compete with big brands in Sweden and USA,” Petter Svensson says. Pioner Snuff has two full-time employees. The best outlet for Pioneer Snuff is the Swedish bakery in Vientiane.

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News Brief

Four new Scandinavian ambassadors to Malaysia

Bengt G. Carlsson new Swedish ambassador to Malaysia

Hans Ola Urstad new Norwegian ambassador to Malaysia

In January 2011 Sweden decided to close its embassy in Malaysia, making Per-Arne Hjelmborn the last Swedish ambassador in the country. In August 2011 the Swedish government and its opposition agreed to re-establish the embassy. Bengt G. Carlsson was appointed as the new ambassador to Malaysia on 1 September 2012. One of his first duties was the closure of the Consulate General on 14 September and the opening of a temporary embassy located in the Trade Councils premisesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; in GTower suite 16-08 on 17 September. The embassy plans to find a permanent location in Kuala Lumpur next year. Mr. Carlsson has previously been posted as Minister Counsellor at the Embassy of Sweden in Riga. Before that he worked at the embassies in Riyadh, London, Pretoria and Bangkok.

New Norwegian ambassador Hans Ola Urstad is an experienced diplomat. He has been working in the ministry for foreign affairs since 1980. Mr. Urstad has experiences from working as Consul General in San Francisco, Ambassador in Beograd and Senior Counsellor in the ministry. He was also appointed Head of the OSCE (Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe) Mission to Serbia and Montenegro in 2006. Mr. Urstad replaced Arild Braastad who passed away in June 2011.

Matti Pullinen new Finnish ambassador to Malaysia

Nicolai Ruge new Danish ambassador to Malaysia

Matti Pullinen was appointed as new Finnish ambassador in Malaysia on 1 September 2012. He joined the Ministry for Foreign Affairs in 1973. Before this post, Matti Pullinen served as the Ambassador of Finland in Jakarta and Abu Dhabi. In the Diplomatic Service, he has also worked in the Finnish Embassies in Tokyo, Beijing, Stockholm and Geneva. In the Ministry, he has served as Deputy Director General of the Department for Asia and the United States of America and as Deputy Director General and Head of Unit in the Department for External Economic Relations. Matti Pullinen replaced Tapio Saarela who was retired.

It is the first time for new Danish ambassador Nicolai Ruge to be appointed as an ambassador. Previously, he worked as Head of Department for Quality Assurance of Development Assistance, Deputy Head of Mission at the embassy in Tanzania and Head of Section at Department for Trade Policy. Nicolai Ruge joined the ministry of foreign affairs in 1995. Nicolai Ruge replaced Svend Waever who was appointed as Head of Secretariat for Refugee Questions at Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

October 2012 â&#x20AC;˘ ScandAsia.eMag 31

News Brief

Philippines Closing Embassies in Sweden and Finland

Swedish Export to Indonesia increased by 30 percent

n 2011 Swedish export to Indonesia has increased by 30 percent which accounted for over SEK 5 billion. The main businesses driving the country’s export figures were telecommunication equipment, paper and pulp, machinery for pulp, machinery for metal industry, agricultural machinery and trucks. Sweden is one of a few European countries that exports more than imports from Indonesia. The Swedish import has declined by three percent in 2011, down to one billion SEK. The imports mostly derived from businesses like furniture, tea, shoes, commodities and food. Indonesia’s population is around 240 million people, which is the fourth highest number in the world. In recent years Indonesia’s economic growth rate is about six percent. Experts assume the growth could be eight to nine percent if Indonesia invested more in infrastructure. With an investment rate in infrastructure as low as three percent of its BNP, Indonesia is far behind other Asian countries like China and India, which both invest around eight percent in infrastructure.

he Philippines is closing their embassies in Stockholm, Sweden and Helsinki, Finland on 31 October 2012, leaving the embassy in Oslo, Norway their sole Nordic embassy. The embassy in Oslo currently serves Denmark and Iceland as well as Norway. The Philippines plans to shut down seven embassies and three consulates this year. Five of them have already been closed and the two Nordic embassies have been scaling down their operations in preparation for closure on October 31. The closing of the 10 diplomatic missions is part of the foreign affair department’s restructuring plan and austerity measures. “We are re-aligning our budget where they are most needed in the Middle East,” Rafael Seguis, undersecretary for foreign affairs, told the press. The decision of which embassies to close has been made based on the posts’ performances and the countries’ economic and political significance. The Philippines has already informed host governments of the terminated posts as well as its respective diplomatic missions in Manila. The Filipino communities, under the jurisdiction of the said embassies and consulates, have also been informed.

Asia’s first Legoland officially opens in Malaysia

he first Legoland theme park in Asia officially opened its doors to welcome a crowd of visitors in Malaysia on 15 September 2012. While waiting several hours in line before the park opened at 10am, keen visitors in Nusajaya, Juhor were entertained by a brass band brought from Lego’s home country, Denmark, and a special dance dubbed “The Power Dance” by Legoland Malaysia employees. Over 35,000 annual passes to the theme park have already been sold, with more than 60 percent taken up by locals. Legoland Malaysia general manager Siegfried Boerst said the park was expecting a 32 ScandAsia.eMag • October 2012

big crowd over the weekend because of advance ticket sales. Legoland Malaysia features replicas of iconic Asian landmark such as the Petronas Twin Towers, Great Wall of China, India’s Taj Mahal and also Singapore’s Marina Bay, recreated using more than 25 million Lego bricks. When fully completed in 2014, Legoland Malaysia will feature Legoland Hotel to be managed by LL Themed Hotel Sdn Bhd and a water-themed park. The landmark development is estimated to be worth RM1.6 billion. Bernama reported that Legoland Parks-Merlin Entertainment managing director John Jakobsen said the company was happy with the presence of thousands of visitors from various places, including Singapore, the Philippines and Indonesia. “This has proved that Legoland Malaysia does not only attract local visitors but also those from foreign countries, and we are planning to introduce more new games in the future.”

News Brief

Launch of Swedish-Indonesian Alumni Network Swedish businesses met Indonesia Investment Authority

n 13 August 2012, Swedish Ambassador H.E. Ewa Polano met with the new chairman of BKPM, Indonesia Investment Coordinating Board, Dr. Chatib Basri, and representatives from various Swedish businesses in Indonesia. The meeting focused on how Indonesia and Sweden can cooperate more, as well as on how to overcome specific trade and investment hurdles in Indonesia. Dr. Basri was very optimistic about the future of Swedish-Indonesian cooperation, and noted the substantive plans of several companies. Ambassador Polano concluded the meeting by summarizing the Swedish business community’s message: “We believe in Indonesia”.

n 8 August 2012, Swedish Ambassador H.E. Ewa Polano launched the Swedish-Indonesian Alumni Network together with 60 Indonesian alumni, who had all been studying in Swedish Universities. During the event, the alumni and the Swedish Embassy staff also wished the best of luck to the 26 Indonesians travelling to Sweden to study in universities this autumn. The Indonesian Alumni emphasizes the importance of keeping in touch with both Sweden and other alumni as many of them today hold important positions in companies, ministries and other organizations. The Swedish higher education system was recently ranked no. 2 in the world.

Swedish H&M opens its first Malaysian flagship store

arl-Johan Persson, CEO of Hennes & Mauritz (H&M), officiated the red ribbon cutting ceremony with Lex Keijser, Country Manager for H&M Greater China, Singapore and Malaysia and Sin Gin, Store Manager of H&M Lot 10 and welcomed an excited crowd of H&M lovers into its first Malaysian store on 25 September 2012. The lucky first customer in line was rewarded with a RM500 voucher, while the second to fifth people in line won RM200 and the next 300 customers received RM50 vouchers. “We have had an amazing response from our customers here in Kuala Lumpur today and we look forward to bringing Malaysians fashion and quality at the best price. We are also excited to finally be expanding our business concept here within Southeast Asia and hope to grow our following in this region,” says Mr. Lex Keijser, Country Manager for H&M Greater China, Singapore and Malaysia. H&M’s new store at Lot 10 carries a complete range of fashion and accessories for women, men, teenagers and children with new items in store daily. This Autumn Winter 2012 season showcases sleek and sculptural silhouettes matched with bold shapes and confident decoration for women, while men can re-invent sharp-suited 60s silhouettes where layering, texture and colours bring tailoring traditions right into the 21st century. Prices start at RM19.90 for a t-shirt. The H&M flagship store is located at Lot 10 Shopping Centre, Bukit Bintang, Kuala Lumpur and has more than 120 employees. Open daily from 10.00am to 10.00pm. Following the first store opening in Lot 10, H&M will continue its expansion in Malaysia with a second H&M store opening in new retail destination, Setia City Mall in Shah Alam on 3 October 2012. October 2012 • ScandAsia.eMag 33

News Brief

Finnish KONE relocates regional office to Singapore

innish Company KONE Pte Ltd., the leading provider of elevator and escalators, has relocated its new Asia Pacific & Middle East regional office to Singapore. The company believes that the move will allow them to focus more on business opportunities in the fast-growing Asia-Pacific market. The company’s CEO Pekka Lundmark has also moved to Singapore. “We forecast that 70 to 80 percent of our growth will be in the fast growing Asian markets. Not just in China and India, but also in Vietnam, Indonesia and other Asian countries,” Pekka Lundmark tells HBL.fi The regional headquarters in Singapore will manage and operate KONE’s sales, installation and maintenance in Southeast Asia, Australia, New Zealand, India, and the Middle East. “KONE has been in Singapore for more than 30 years and it’s a natural location to lead our business stretching from Jeddah to Wellington. Using Singapore as our new regional hub gives us even better possibilities to develop our business further in all of these markets,” says Noud Veeger, Executive Vice President and Area Director of KONE Asia Pacific and Middle East. “Choosing Singapore as the regional headquarters for Asia Pacific and Middle East was a strategic decision. Singapore is a cosmopolitan, worldclass city with global connectivity and a multi-cultural environment that offers an excellent platform for us to launch new and innovative solutions into the region,” adds Anthony Tan, Managing Director of KONE Singapore. KONE solutions can be found in many prominent buildings around Singapore such as Marina Bay Sand®, Reflections at Keppel Bay, Circle Line, Jem™, Floridian, International Cruise Terminal, and W Residences. The company currently employs over 200 staff serving customers in Singapore.

Denmark and Singapore signed memorandum on maritime relations

n 31 August 2012, Danish Minister of Business and Growth Mr. Ole Sohn and Singaporean Minister for Transport Mr. Lui Tuck Yew signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to strengthen maritime cooperation and relations between the two countries. “Singapore and Denmark are both leading maritime countries with strategic interests in high-quality maritime services. The MOU provides a solid foundation for engagement in a range of maritime activities for the benefit of both Singapore and Denmark,” Ole Sohn said when 34 ScandAsia.eMag • October 2012

signing the MOU at the Ministry of Transport, Singapore. The MOU underscores the strong bilateral ties that Singapore and Denmark enjoy, and is also a testament to their excellent maritime relations. Under the MOU, Singapore and Denmark will explore opportunities for collaboration in the areas of quality shipping, green shipping as well as maritime research and development, education and training. It is said in a joint statement. “I am delighted that Singapore and Denmark have taken proactive steps to enhance bilateral co-operation in the maritime sector. This MOU will enable our two countries to build on our common maritime interests and address the challenges ahead,” said Lui Tuck Yew, Minister for Transport, Singapore. According to Ole Sohn those common interest includes securing free market access in international shipping, which serves the interest of Danish maritime companies.

News Brief

Norway learns from Singapore in monetary management

he Supervisory Council of Norway’s national bank, Norges Bank, recently visited Singapore to learn more about investment strategies, capital markets, risk management and how Singapore manages its sovereign wealth. The council is appointed by the Norwegian parliament to oversee Norges Bank’s activities and ensure compliance with the rules governing the Bank’s operations. During their visit they met with Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), Government of Singapore Investment Corporation (GIC), the investment holding company Temasek, and the Singapore Exchange. Prudent, long term management of foreign reserves was a key issue in the council’s meeting with Singapore authorities. The council also visited NBIM Singapore – one of four offices overseas tasked with managing The Government Pension Fund, Norway’s Sovereign Wealth Fund (SPU). The SPU is a fiscal policy tool that supports long-term management of Norway’s petroleum revenues. The fund is managed by NBIM on behalf of the Ministry of Finance, which owns the fund on behalf of the Norwegian people. The visit by the Supervisory Council served to consolidate the close relationship between Norway and Singapore within management of sovereign wealth. The fact that co-operation in this area has become an important part of our bilateral ties is a good example of how the relationship between Norway and Singapore is evolving into new areas, says Ambassador Tormod C. Endresen.

Close research collaboration between Singapore and Sweden

mbassador Ingemar Dolfe recently hosted a reception to welcome representatives from a leading Swedish University, Karolinska Institutet (KI), who flew to Singapore to attend a joint scientific symposium organized by KI, Nanyang Technological University (NTU) and the Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR) in Singapore. The symposium aimed to strengthen the existing collaboration in medical research and education between centres of excellence in Singapore and Sweden. Ambassador Dolfe highlighted the close research collaboration between Singapore and Sweden in his welcome address. He also referred to the bilateral agreement signed by the Swedish Minister of Education and Singapore’s Minister of Education 2010. This bilateral agreement laid the foundation for enhanced co-operation in the areas of education, research and research-based innovation. Currently, some 30 Swedish researchers are working in Singapore.

October 2012 • ScandAsia.eMag 35

Swedish PT Lundin stealth warship in In

It’s like a dream has come true for us. This is new, cutting edge technology, and I’m very happy that we can do something like this for Indonesia and I’m proud that it has been done here in Banyuwangi.

36 ScandAsia.eMag • October 2012

launches advanced ndonesia After years of intensive research, development and secretive production that combined some of the world’s best technologies, PT Lundin Industry Invest has launched a high speed gigantic trimaran claimed to be the most advanced stealth warship ever built in Southeast Asia. By Wachiraporn Janrut

n the straits between East Java and Bali, at Banyuwangi, in Indonesia, Swedish PT Lundin Industry Invest (North Sea Boats Ltd.) has launched its 63m Stealth Fast Missile Patrol Vessel for the Indonesian Navy (TNI-AL). “It’s like a dream has come true for us. This is new, cutting edge technology, and I’m very happy that we can do something like this for Indonesia and I’m proud that it has been done here in Banyuwangi,” says Swedish entrepreneur John Lundin, owner of PT Lundin Industry Invest. The formal launching ceremony took place on 31 August 2012 at PT Lundin’s shipyard facility in Banyuwangi, East Java. Mr. John Lundin welcomed guests to the event and expressed his delight with the outcome of the project which started its intensive Research and Development in 2007. After the contract with the navy was signed in 2009, construction started discretely in early 2010. Now the company is happy to showcase to the public its new 63m Carbon Fibre Trimaran, named “KRI KLEWANG” (a traditional Indonesian single edged sword). Among those attending the launching ceremony were the Chief of the Indonesian Navy, high ranked navy officers, the Regent of Banyuwangi, local government authorities, prominent Indonesian business people and local and international reporters including ScandAsia. Mr. Lundin gave special thanks to the local government for its support, as well as his team and suppliers for making it all happen. Other speakers included Mr. Abdullah Azwar Anas, Regent of Banyuwangi, and Logistic Deputy to Indonesian Navy’s Chief of Staff Admiral Sayid Anwar. Guests and media inspected the gigantic stealth vessel before it was officially launched in the waters off Banyuwangi. The ship will be tested by the navy in two months. If the test is successful, it’s likely that the navy will purchase three more vessels from PT

Lundin. The full operation of KRI KLEWANG is expected to start in 2013.

Advanced technologies According to Mr. Lundin, the value of the contract is 140 million Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) or almost USD 15 million. This value is just for the platform and does not include weapons which cost more. “Five years ago the chief of Indonesian navy asked me to come up with something innovative for the navy and I thought that he probably said that to a few people so I aimed to find the best technologies from around the world,” says Mr. Lundin, who went to Sweden and New Zealand to look at new technologies. He found that the construction material used by the Swedish military was the best as it builds warships from carbon fibre, the material used also in the aircraft production industry. Though the cost of carbon fibre is quite high, Mr. Lundin said that the material is lighter and stronger, leading to energy-efficiency and less maintenance costs in the long run. Unfortunately, the material is not available in Indonesia yet. Carbon Fibre can be imported from Europe, Japan and America. However, only the best material is not good enough for Mr. Lundin. “We needed a cutting edge design for it, too,” he says. PT Lundin collaborated with New Zealand naval architects, LOMOcean Design Ltd., a company which designed the 24m Earthrace (later called Ady Gil) - the wave-piercing trimaran that broke the world record for circumnavigating the globe in a powerboat. Mr. Lundin says that the trimaran design offers stability and seakeeping. Instead of going over the wave, it goes through the waves. Its ability to keep a ‘low signature’ gives it its stealth status. The hull shape is intended to permit high speeds to be maintained and thus maximize crew operational capability in the

short steep seas characteristic of the coastline around the Indonesian Archipelago. While the vessel’s cruise speed is 22 knots, the sprint speed is +30 knots. “We mixed the trimaran design and the best material technology together. And the navy was brave enough to go ahead with the new technology,” says Mr. Lundin.

PT Lundin’s business philosophy and plans Mr. Lundin’s philosophy is to always build a boat at the highest possible quality. “Instead of having lots of low quality boats, it’s actually better to have a few good ones that can do something. I also believe that the cost of energy will be higher in the future,” says Mr. Lundin. The company aims to be a niche in the industry, offering specialized ships with high technology. Designed for patrolling the littorals, the KRI KLEWANG will be useful by the navy to prevent smuggling, illegal fishing and illegal trades. Over the past 6 years in the business, the company has supplied its technology to military forces in Brunei, Timor-Leste, Malaysia and Indonesia. It has also supplied private boats to customers in over 10 countries. The main markets for the company’s private boat are Singapore, Australia and Thailand. The company has been approached by a few countries in The Middle East and Asia after signing the contract to build KRI KLEWANG. Now that PT Lundin has the experience of building the first carbon fibre trimaran, Mr. Lundin believes that the production time for the next ships will be much faster. The company also plans to export more as well as providing the maintenance contract for its clients in the future. “We want to be competitive in the international market,” says Mr. Lundin.

October 2012 • ScandAsia.eMag 37

Meet H. E. Berit Basse, the new Danish Ambass

ith a Master of Science in International Business and Politics and Intercultural Communication, Ambassador Berit Basse has always sought challenging assignments, starting with her time in Senegal with the UNDP to her prior role as Head of Department - Strategy, Quality and Policy at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Denmark. As the new Danish Ambassador to Singapore, she is looking forward to continuing the great work of her predecessors and to further strengthening the knowledge of what Denmark and Danish companies have to offer the ASEAN region.

Singapore exceeds all expectations!

Ms. Berit Basse first came to Singapore as a young back-packer in the mid-eighties and then went on to have a prolific career in international affairs spanning across Europe and Africa. She is delighted to be back in Singapore as the new Danish Ambassador, her first assignment in Asia. By Anne Pinto-Rodrigues Photo by Kim Birkkjaer Lund

38 ScandAsia.eMag • October 2012

Ambassador Berit Basse, then an enthusiastic 22-year-old back-packer traveling across Asia, fondly recalls her first, daylong stopover in Singapore in the mid-eighties. “Even back then, it struck me as orderly and clean”, she exclaims. With her first month as Danish Ambassador to Singapore already behind her, Ms. Berit Basse is quick to point out the things that she appreciates most about Singapore. “From the time you arrive at Changi airport, you get an overwhelming sense of how welcoming Singapore is”, she adds. In her own experience as well as that of her predecessors and colleagues, Singapore is a wonderfully easy place to live and work, she adds. Ambassador Basse also appreciates the manner in which Singapore is governed, very professional and business-like with clear-cut goals and strategies, swift decision making, short wait time from decision to execution and defined consequences if plans are not executed as should they be. Just returning from a morning function at the Istana to meet the President of Mexico Felipe Calderon Hinojosa, Ambassador Basse appreciates the Singapore tradition of inviting all ambassadors whenever there is a visiting dignitary. “It’s a wonderful

sador to Singapore opportunity to meet colleagues and ministers from other nations”, she enthuses. She is also amazed at how accessible the Singapore Government is. “If you have business to discuss, you can definitely contact a minister directly.”

Ms. Berit Basse’s journey Ambassador’s Basse’s illustrious professional journey is one, which very few can hope to emulate. At the United Nations Development Program office in New York in the early nineties, Ms. Basse’s was gearing up for her first assignment. Given her proficiency in the French language and Haiti being a francophone country, it was the logical match. But a coup d’état there meant that she would have to go to another French speaking country. Her first preference being Asia, she requested to be posted there but was assigned to Senegal. After her first assignment in Senegal, Ms. Basse has also lived and worked in Denmark, Uganda and Germany in various capacities, with each role having its share of unique professional and cultural experiences as well as challenges. Since those early days, Ms. Basse has wanted to work in Asia. She is ecstatic when she declares that the highlight of her career is most definitely her role as Danish Ambassador to Singapore. Briefly touching on the subject of culture shock, in her case, it has more to do with re-integrating into life in Denmark after her various international assignments.

The Danish community in Singapore With more than 1,500 Danes living in Singapore and over 150 Danish companies operating out of here, there is a relatively strong Danish presence in Singapore. On 17th August 2012, the Danish Business Association of Singapore (DABS) organized a welcome dinner for Ambassador Basse, which provided an excellent forum for her to interact with the DABS members

on a one-to-one basis. Keeping in mind the crucial role that the maritime sector plays for both Denmark and Singapore, Ambassador Basse recently hosted a dinner for the Danish maritime community, an avenue for her to reach out to this key business segment. Through the Danish Embassy, Ms. Basse has also been actively involved with the many social and fund raising activities organized by the Danish Seaman’s Church, a common gathering place for all Danes in Singapore.

Back to business Ambassador Basse’s first month in office has already been a very busy one. Last week, she hosted Mr. Ole

plays both from a business as well as a political perspective. From the business perspective, the ASEAN region is being viewed as a key economic growth force, despite a slight slow down in the overall growth rate. Many Danish companies looking to enter the ASEAN market or China first establish their presence in Singapore due to its strategic location. Singapore also provides a conducive business environment with no corruption, several tax incentives and a robust infrastructure. From the political standpoint, Singapore has a high status thanks to its socio-economic achievements over the years and is viewed as a highly stable political environment as well.

From the time you arrive at Changi airport, you get an overwhelming sense of how welcoming Singapore is.

Sohn, the Danish Minster for Business & Growth who was in Singapore to further strengthen the maritime relations between the two countries. “With a view towards increasing maritime co-operation, Singapore Minister of Transport, Mr. Lui Tuck Yew and Mr. Ole Sohn, signed a Memorandum of Understanding that will explore opportunities for collaboration in the areas of quality shipping, green shipping as well as maritime research and development, education and training.” she asserts.

The Ambassador’s viewpoint Ambassador Basse goes on to elaborate on the critical role that Singapore

technologies, biotech and health/ welfare related sectors. In addition, the maritime sector is one of the biggest in Singapore and is of mutual interest to both nations. She is keen to strengthen co-operation in this critical sector even further. She adds, “Denmark and Singapore are both small countries. Today Singapore is facing welfare and economic challenges like falling birth rates, requests for paternity leave etc, areas in which Denmark has extensive experience.” Furthermore, there is scope for dialogue and exchange of ideas between the two countries in priority sectors such as education, innovation and R&D. Another item on her agenda is to raise the profile of not only Denmark but of Europe as a whole. Europe is Singapore’s second largest trade partner and she hopes the new trade agreement between the EU and Singapore that will come into effect by fall 2012, will give a further boost to trade relations.

Life in Singapore

Given this background, the Danish embassy in Singapore plays the critical role of a facilitator to the Danish business community looking to enter ASEAN (or broadly Asia) via Singapore.

The way forward During her upcoming 3 to 4 year tenure in Singapore, Ambassador Basse’s top priority is to further strengthen the knowledge of what Denmark and Danish companies have to offer Singapore as well as the ASEAN region. Denmark has developed expertise in many different sectors such as water treatment, environmentally sustainable

Ambassador Basse loves her new home, located close to the Singapore Polo Club on Thomson Road. With MacRitchie Reservoir less than a kilometer away, she cherishes the experience of jogging there. She remarks, “Singapore is much greener than I expected it to be.” She has 2 children, an 18 year old son and a 16 year old daughter studying in high school back in Denmark. “They will visit Singapore during their school breaks, the first one being in October & then during Christmas” she beams happily. Her partner Hans Holm also enjoys Singapore very much and divides his time between Holland and Singapore. In the days to come, she is looking forward to exploring the many sights Singapore has to offer. “I look forward to exploring the various facets of Singapore - the museums, the fantastic attractions and most definitely, the culinary experiences one can have here from the top class restaurants to the local hawker center”, she signs off with a dazzling smile.

October 2012 • ScandAsia.eMag 39

Expanding culinary de He aimed at offering something for guests willing to pay a bit more than the average price and getting a good steak for the money. Thus his opening of Prime Steakhouse three years ago came with perfect timing. “As it turned out there is really a market. It is different from Phuket actually, because here you have so many more expats compared to there - I actually thought tourism was a larger part of the pie than it actually is.” “Expats is another audience type. So one had to learn understanding how to cater to them by collaborating with societies and different interest groups, trying to find the way. And after this third year it has turned into a successful restaurant.” Indeed, during last high season the restaurant was fully booked every single night for three months. Expats, in the form of secondhome buyers, living in Hua Hin at least four months per year, is his largest group of clients (about 70 per cent being Scandinavians and mostly Swedes).

Blackout a stroke of luck

Restaurateur Anders Hagstedt has done well in Hua Hin. From starting up the Black Mountain restaurant he now owns the Blackout Cocktail Bar, Prime Steakhouse and Mex Restaurant & Bar. By Joakim Persson

fter three years in operation chef Anders Hagstedt’s achievements in Hua Hin form proof that it is possible to enter a seemingly established market in Thailand and yet succeed, for example by introduce something that is missing and brings more quality to the dining and drinking scene. By the time Anders decided to invest in his own restaurant business he had already gained valuable experience from restaurant operations in Thailand, especially from the prestigious appointment to open and run the restaurant operations on the new golf course Black Mountain from its initial stage.

Starting up Black Mountain The Swedish owner of this golf course had sought him out on Phuket where Anders worked back then. Initially Anders had declined the offer but changed his mind when good friends had encouraged him 40 ScandAsia.eMag • October 2012

to accept the offer. “The toughest part was coming to Hua Hin where I knew nobody, so it was practically like coming to unknown territory with the task of establishing a whole food and beverage department at a golf resort within six months,” Anders recalls. “But it was fun and challenging.”

Moving on to new opportunities What lead Anders to eventually move on and open up his own restaurant was what he thought was a lack of proper dining opportunities. “A lot has happened here and I felt that things were missing, compared to in Phuket where there is healthy competition with steak houses etc. There was in fact none here! And with Hua Hin growing in all directions that felt like just the right thing to do.” “Not luxurious as such but qualitative dining - a bit high end, fine dining,” Anders explains when prompted to elaborate.

By chance, and which turned out to be a stroke of luck, Anders was offered to take over another outlet across the side street where he had just opened Prime Steakhouse. “This street is well positioned but quiet and by opening this second place I could get some more space. It turned out to be perfect because most coming to Prime have a drink there and relax while waiting for their table, and also stay for after-dinner sessions. It became more lively here too.” This indoor-outdoor bar-style venue was given a name easy to remember: Blackout Cocktail Bar, where one can come by for a glass of wine or a coffee and use the free wi fi. That service, plus its friendly prices and setting, also appeals to anything from students to retirees, Anders explains. “The niche here is 99 baht for drinks, so that has become a recognition. And we serve quality spirits and one can come and enjoy a nice glass of wine. I think I am most affordable on house wine in the whole of Hua Hin!” “There are very few places in Hua Hin where one can gather over

elights in Hua Hin a glass with family and friends in a more cosy environment and where one can savour wine of slightly better quality or get a nice cocktail served in a proper cocktail glass etc.

Mexican adventure Anders’ operation does not stop here, but a third outlet, Mex Restaurant & Bar, was added to the portfolio earlier this year. Visiting many Mexican-oriented restaurants, as the devoted food connoisseur including fan of Mexican food that Anders is, lead him into pondering such a cuisine concept as well. “I felt there is room for a handful more restaurants here and with an opportunity to get a good venue for a good price, I could not resist. And I had noticed about popular Mexican restaurants that these are also attractive also for nationals, especially in Bangkok. So I thought: brilliant, with the location I have I can attract quite a few Thais as well.” Mex, he says, serves quite genuine Mexican food. To get the concept right Anders researched the competition for ideas and then compared with his own understanding and ideas to come up with his own niche. He also sourced a chef with the right experience. “I gave my input in addition to his skills and our collaboration turned out in an excellent way.” “Then I’ve had to adapt a bit since many Scandinavians think this cuisine equals Tex Mex, so one must have that on the menu too. But it’s so much more than that!” “By fine-tuning, after some months of operation, I think we have found our way. It’s just a matter of ensuring the quality is better than any other Mexican restaurants. We make our own handmade tortilla chips, everything is prepared from scratch etc.” The best advantages Anders sees with Hua Hin is that it is less hectic and that the visitor is on average ten years older (around 50 years of age) there compared to other destinations and thus with more purchasing power. “Especially appreciated is the calmer atmosphere and with lots of nice people around here. No fuzz and fights on the streets; it feels much safer than in Patong for instance,” states Anders. October 2012 • ScandAsia.eMag 41

Eco-bungalow pr

42 ScandAsia.eMag â&#x20AC;˘ October 2012

roject in Laos This autumn, a new exciting project for social development will take place in rural Laos, initiated by two young Swedish entrepreneurs with the drive and motivation to create lasting socio-economic impact for the vulnerable people of the Lao PDR.The ecobungalow project will create an opportunity for a remote village to earn an income for the first time, giving the villagers a chance to have an impact on their own development.

esper Lejfjord and David Jonsson are two young entrepreneurs and the founders of the Swedish organisation World Volunteer. Based on their experience with volunteering and managing education projects in the Lao PDR, they have formed a net of invaluable contacts, on which the foundation of World Volunteer is built. The organisation is based in Stockholm, but with staff in five different countries. World Volunteer tailors suitable volunteering experiences for people of all ages within a wide range of projects, e.g. teaching, child care and sports coaching. If you want to volunteer at a project it can be adapted to suit your requests, no matter if you are a family looking for an adventure, or a business leader in need of a new challenge. This way, World Volunteer and its partners are able to provide a once in a life time experience for any type of volunteer as well as creating a lasting impact on the community. Now the organisation is initiating its second social development project in Laos after last year’s success in building a school in the village of Ban Na Luang, giving 100 children the opportunity for education/to attend school. “The school building project is like nothing I have done before. It is hard work, but worth every second when you see the smiles on the children’s faces.”, says Elizabeth Doern-

hoefer, SSHL Student and participant in the School Building Project 2011.

Eco-bungalow The eco-bungalow project is an initiative made possible through collaborations with Tiger Trail Adventures, pioneers within the eco-tourism sector, and the Ministry of Tourism in Laos. World Volunteer will, together with groups of volunteers, start the building of the bungalow in November 2012 in the village of Ban Long Lao Mai, situated one hour outside of the picturesque World Heritage city of Luang Prabang. Ban Long Lao Mai is a Hmong village with just over 700 inhabitants, where approximately 70% have food to last them all year around. The village lies next to a trekking track leading to one of Laos’ most beautiful waterfalls, which is very popular among tourists.

Local materials The volunteers will participate in the building, using earthen materials found locally, together with the villagers and experienced guides. The project also gives the volunteers the chance to learn about the rich cultural heritage that Laos has to offer through various activities in the village such as harvesting, bamboo weaving or cooking. The bungalow will work as an exclusive hotel, which will be owned and run as a business by the village

and marketed as part of Tiger Trail’s adventurous trekking tours. In this way, the project creates an opportunity for the villagers to generate an income and also labour opportunities for generations to come through services like cleaning, cooking and guided tours. “When a CEO gets involved in activities and creates opportunities for people in need, it is hard not to get inspired by the commitment. It´s a lot of fun as well!”, says Charlie Hansson, CEO Chas Management Consulting and participant in the Laos program 2011.

Make a difference The organisation is always looking for new motivated individuals to take part in the projects, the most important prerequisite being the ambition to help others. There are a number of ways where volunteers can make a difference together with World Volunteer, from own participation, to spreading the word to friends or improving a company’s CSR by funding parts of the project. “Of course, the most rewarding way, both for the participants and the communities we work in, is to come and work with us in the field during the project”, says David Jonsson, Co-founder World Volunteer. If you are interested in more information, please contact malin@ world-volunteer.com or go to www. world-volunteer.com

By Malin Törnvall

The school building project is like nothing I have done before. It is hard work, but worth every second when you see the smiles on the children’s faces. October 2012 • ScandAsia.eMag 43

44 ScandAsia.eMag â&#x20AC;˘ October 2012

From passion to profession Gitte Johansen, the Danish photographer and graphic designer at International Design House, turned her passion of taking photos into her profession. She moved to Hong Kong seven years ago to enjoy the excitement of a city of contrasts which drives her creativity. By Wachiraporn Janrut Photo by Bjarne Wildau

orn in Esbjerg in Denmark, Gitte Johansen grew up with a father who loves taking photos. She received her first camera as a gift from her father when she was around six. In Gitte’s early age, her father worked in shipping and transportation business. Whenever he had time off work, he enjoyed taking photos. He even had a dark chamber where he developed black & white and colour pictures at home. “I spent a lot of time taking photos with my dad and I absolutely loved it. I’ve enjoyed taking photos since I was young,” says Gitte. Growing up taking photos since a very young age, it was always a part of life so Gitte never thought of pursuing it as her profession. When she had to decide to further her education, it took her quite some time to know that taking photos was

I have never seen a place that has so many small little things happening all around in the creative environment at the same time. There are so many impressions per minute. I really like that.

what she wanted to do professionally. In any case, she always knew that she wanted to do something in the creative field so she took drawing and art classes. Nevertheless, it didn’t satisfy her emotionally. “One day I came home to consult my dad about my choice of education because I was not happy about it. And he said: Why is it that you don’t want to be a photographer. It hit me then. Of course, I want to be a photographer,” says Gitte with a big smile. Gitte decided to take the education in Denmark to become a professional photographer. Alongside with doing photography, she has been doing graphic designs and graphic illustrations.

International Design House Gitte moved to Hong Kong seven years ago. She is currently working for International Design House, the Danish company providing product design solutions including product design and development, production, packaging and branding. The company also has own brands of modern style wine accessories and kitchenware products which are SPIRIT and MIX. Designed by Marcus Vagnby, a well-recognized product designer from Denmark, the products have been distributed globally in many countries such as Denmark, Korea, Japan and Taiwan. As the Art Manager of the company, Gitte’s role is to ensure that all graphic illustrations, logos, photography, packaging, and all kids of designs work together to initiate purchases from consumers.

Charm of Hong Kong Seven years in Hong Kong means the Dane is enjoying her life in the city. “Hong Kong is a city of contrasts. And for me as a creative person, working here gives me a lot of creative input,” says Gitte. For Gitte, the city has so much to offer with a variety of choices. It’s also a major food capital that residents can enjoy good food ranging from dining in a fine dining restaurant to grabbing a quick bite to eat on a messy street. Despite the fact that

Hong Kong is very hectic, Gitte loves the liveliness of the place. “I have never seen a place that has so many small little things happening all around in the creative environment at the same time. There are so many impressions per minute. I really like that,” adds Gitte. Gitte says that there are many small groups of creative people in Hong Kong. With support from the Hong Kong government, the arts scene in the city is on the rise.

Danish Community in Hong Kong According to Gitte, the Danish community is tight in Hong Kong. The bond between Scandinavian and other expat communities is also strong. Many events and activities are available for Scandinavians to connect with each other, for example, Danish Chamber of Commerce networking events and luncheons, football tournaments, and Christmas celebrations. The Danish church in Hong Kong is set up as a social centre where expats get together for all kinds of celebrations. Gitte is well connected with the Danish and expat communities in the city. She often volunteers to help with photography and graphic illustrations at Danish and Scandinavianrelated events. “They know they can always call me if they need my help. We get used to helping each other around here,” says Gitte. “What expats have in common is that we are open to meeting other people. We often travel in a group together. I have a large group of Danish friends living here,” adds Gitte. For anyone interested in moving to Asia, Gitte says that Hong Kong is one of the easiest cities for expats to live. She recommends newcomers to join the community and participate in events as soon as possible as it’d help them both in professional and personal levels. “There’s no reason to get into trouble finding something. You can just ask and people here are more than happy to help you,” says Gitte with a smile.

October 2012 • ScandAsia.eMag 45

Guide to the perfect sh

South Bund Fabric Market 46 ScandAsia.eMag â&#x20AC;˘ October 2012

Nanjing Road

hopping day in Shanghai With the risk of receiving hatemails from our male readers, who are tired of being dragged around shopping streets by their wives or girlfriends, ScandAsia here brings you a guide to one perfect day of shopping in Shanghai. By Dennis Krog

hen marketing Shanghai the tourist agencies call it the Paris of Asia, and in many ways they are right as you will find good quality and the latest fashion in the Chinese city. You can probably find anything in the Chinese Metro pole, and if you follow the advice in this article, you will get a great - and very diverse - day of shopping at three very different Shanghai locations.

Nanjing Road Nanjing Road is the most popular shopping street of Shanghai. The street is divided between Nanjing East and Nanjing West. In Nanjing East you will find more than 600 shops, all well known from shopping streets all over the world. The street is extremely crowded, but if you are looking to browse around for the mainstream, this is definitely the place to go, but be patient, because there are people everywhere. The tip is to go to Nanjing East in the evening as the many lights and activities give the street a lively and fun atmosphere. If you come with a fat wallet the Nanjing West road is the place for you to go, here you will find all the luxury items as Dior, Chanel, Armani and all the other luxury brands.

South Bund Fabric Market This is a crazy place, but at the same time the place to do a good deal if

you are looking for silk to make your own close. The South Bund Market is also where you will get your custom made suit. The South Bund Fabric Market is an indoor market that continues for a staggering three floors. You will find almost everything within clothing and fabrics here. As in many other markets bargaining is a big part of making a good deal, and do take your time, because there are many different tailors to choose from. The tip here is to be careful. You can find the best suits here, but you can also find the worst. If you are buying more than one suit do yourself the favor of starting with one anyway, send it to the cleaners, and if the shape, color and everything else still adds up, then you found yourself a good tailor and now you know, where to buy the rest of your suits.

Nanchang Road Nanchang Road is the little secret tip to Shanghai shopping. If you are a regular in Shanghai you probably already know this perfect place for shopping. Nanchang Road is known for its European styled houses, which holds small boutiques where designers sell their own designs or designs of other designers. The area is much quieter than the rest Shanghai shopping has to offer, and you will find the most beautiful clothes and shoes here. The prices are reasonable and you can be pretty sure that you friends from

back home won’t be wearing the same dress at your next party. The Nanchang Road is definitely the place to go for exclusive and fashionable shopping. The tip is: Go there!

How to make it all in one day? It is actually not that difficult. Taxies will take you there, quick and cheap – just follow this route. You start by going to the South Bund Fabric Market in the morning. You can be measured for your suit which will be ready for you to pick up later on the same day or the next morning on your way back to the airport. From the Fabric Market you continue to Nanchang Road, and this is where you do most of your shopping. The biggest hurdle here is to keep some of your money for going to the mayhem of Nanjing Road. In the late afternoon you go to Nanjing Road, make sure to put in a beer break for your male companion, because if he isn’t tired of shopping now, he will get there soon. But the advantage of going to Nanjing Road in the afternoon and evening is the amazing lights and all the other activities that go on in the area. After one entire day of shopping you finish the day off with a nice dinner and a glass of champagne, and maybe this is the perfect time to give your husband or boyfriend the tickets to that football game he has been talking so much about. Enjoy your shopping!

Nanchang Road October 2012 • ScandAsia.eMag 47

Finnish diving family solution on Phuket T Combining Finland and Thailand can seem like an ideal solution – provided the stay in Scandinavia is dedicated to the summers. Many Finns are doing so within the diving community on Phuket, catering to their fellow countrymen coming for diving holidays during the winter high season here. By Joakim Persson

he couple Sven Schlegel and Virpi Lehtonen are such diving freaks who have turned their interest into a business in Thailand enabling them to do just that, getting the best out of two countries. But now their three small children, all in or approaching school age, is urging them to settle down in one place more than the other.

Thai and Finnish schools Their oldest son, Walther, has so far studied in Finland and yet also attended a school in Thailand; first the English programme of the Kajonkietsuksa School and then the international programme of the new Kajonkiet International School Phuket since 2011. “For his first grade we were actually in Finland, and Walther learned how to read and write, so the basic skill was so strong that when we moved here and he entered in Kajonkietsuksa it was much easier and they taught how to read and write the English language,” said his mother Virpi, upon a visit to the new school premises to open for the next term in 2012. “But it was also challenging because we were only here like five months so he was missing too many months of the school year. But

From left to right: Walther, Max and Camilla

48 ScandAsia.eMag • October 2012

Walther has also attended a Finnish school so we also bring the Finnish school books here with us and I try to teach him those books and subjects, but I’m not a teacher so it’s been difficult to do.” In the middle of April they returned to Finland where many exams and tests covering the whole Finnish school year awaited the boy. So far they have kept Walther in the Finnish school since he has not attended the Thai school the whole year but still been able to complete his exams in the home country. “But this is not going to work anymore, because next school year will be his fifth and they will then also learn history, chemistry and physics – subjects that we cannot teach him.” “We will spend more than six months here so it will be easier to stay and quit the school in Finland,” thought Sven, even though they intend to continue running a business they have also in Finland during the summer periods.

Kajonkiet’s international programme The new international school Kajonkiet with its international programme, and which moves to a brand new campus for the upcoming autumn term, has certainly also helped them to take this decision. “I have to say that this international programme has been much better for Walther,” said the mother. They support each other and all share the feeling to have a home country where you have friends. In the English programme, on the contrary, most students are Thais and have their roots here so they don’t miss anything.” “Class sizes are much smaller and I like what they are teaching them; much more than just Thai subjects. Now they have Europe’s history and these kind of things.” Kajonkiet follows the British Curriculum and is currently a Cambridge Examination Centre (the world’s largest provider of international education programmes and

qualifications for 5–19 year olds). The new school will provide facilities with the promise of “a fantastic learning environment”, situated along a mountain hillside in the outskirts o Kathu outside Phuket Town, featuring a number of swimming pools, and many other sports and arts facilities. Walther’s English skills have grown to the level that he could independently answer to questions from ScandAsia. “They teach us more English here than in the English Programme. Now I don’t need any extra books, such as an English-Finnish dictionary. I know the meaning of the words now anyhow.” “I used to be sad being in Thailand but now I have much more fun in the International Programme, so I don’t really want to go back to Finland,” he said before the departure. “I must add that it’s been so nice with this programme and the teachers who are amazing, like family for Walther. It is the first school year I’ve heard him saying that he wants to stay here – because the most important was all the friends he has back in Finland,” said Virpi. “Yesterday was the last day for him so he’s been very sad. He realised he wants to stay here.” “Nowadays it’s easier because he’s all the time playing games online with friends in Finland. They can speak, also on Skype, and it does not feel like long a distance between friends,” added the father.

Phuket conveniences Within a few years also their two youngest children will need to start a proper school. So far, the youngest son Max and daughter Camilla have been in a nursery in Chalong near their home. Life on Phuket is different in many ways for the Finns. Given they are within a seasonal industry the adults have to work long hours during the diving/tourist season. Then one the things they really appreciate, is that here they can afford things

finds education more, such as hiring their own nanny to look after the children at home. “It’s so nice that there is someone to take care of the children if you are working. And to clean up your home,” said Sven with satisfaction in his voice. “And many basic things that take a lot of your time in Finland you can skip here because you can have that nanny and you can just call a restaurant and order take-away food.”

Exploring Thailand If they have some days off they prefer to stay home, explained Sven. But they enjoy going to Splash waterpark, aside swimming, and diving of course. “Walther has now also completed his open water dive course. So sometimes we go diving the three of us,” said Virpi. Visiting other parts of Thailand is also something they will continue doing onwards. “We have lived in Samui, and here in Phuket, but as for other places in Thailand – we have just visited Pattaya, Bangkok and Khao Lak a few times. But I have to say there are so many places still to see and we try when we have holidays to visit other destinations,” Sven added who came here for his first diving season in 2000/2001. In 2006 he and Virpi bought a diving company on Samui and later moved on with their live-aboard diving boat and became co-owners of Chalong Sea Sport. Their plan is to continue catering to the Finnish base, which makes up 90 per cent of their customers. “Diving is a popular hobby in Finland nowadays and most people do it when going on holiday outside Finland. It’s one of the best things you can do because the underwater scenery that you can find here is very beautiful. Also, if you don’t want to spend your whole day on the beach, you can get sun but also some action when you dive. I’ve been diving since 11 years old. For me, going some place for a holiday I always wanted to go diving.”

I used to be sad being in Thailand but now I have much more fun in the International Programme, so I don’t really want to go back to Finland.

October 2012 • ScandAsia.eMag 49

Enjoying gastrono Jakob Esko was schooled in the best of Swedish food traditions at the legendary Ulrikdals Wärdshus outside Stockholm. But he landed his current job as the Executive Chef at Capella Singapore on Sentosa Island due to his modern European Mediterranean cooking skills. By Joakim Persson

ince the Swedish chef Jakob Esko took on the position as Executive Chef at the brand new Capella Singapore on Sentosa Island two years ago, the food scene has changed faster than anywhere else in Asia. “The gastronomy scene has completely exploded,” says Jakob Esko. “Due to the crisis in Spain and elsewhere in Europe, there’s a large interest from chefs there to come over here and do guest appearances ‘cause all of them are interested in possibly opening a restaurant in Singapore - or alternatively Hong Kong,” he explains. “Some of the world’s most wellknown chefs have already opened restaurants here and there are yet more to come.” The clientele is there. Singapore has the highest concentration of millionaires on the planet and two multibillion-dollar casino resorts every year pull in limousine-loads of chefs from Michelin-starred restaurants.

Keeps everyone on their toes Inviting guest chefs for shorter or longer periods of time is also the way forward for Capella Singapore. They create an incentive for the guest to stay and have luncheons and dinners at the hotel. And they are important for the staff because it makes their work place more attractive. “It’s exciting and you learn new techniques from that and come

50 ScandAsia.eMag • October 2012

Singapore’s omic explosion across good food and get to meet professional chefs – that also helps us in our strive to continuously raise the bar and build further on our menus,” Jakob Esko explains. “This continuous improvement is actually crucial; it’s easy to become comfortable. Even if you get something to perfection it does not mean you stop improving it onwards.” “Even if guests are satisfied we have to continuously better ourselves or else our competition will out-compete us. The competition is fierce so one must stay on ones toes even regarding the simplest things.”

Leisure and business The advantage of Capella Singapore is its ultimate tropical locale on Sentosa Island, the Garden City’s premier resort destination only 15 minutes from the central business district. With its ballroom and meetings facilities this luxury resort with 112 guestrooms is utilized not only for vacationers but also for many corporate events as well as private functions, not least weddings. Among the guests you will also often find working travellers opting for another setting than the usual city hotel. Jakob Esko sees this position as the ideal mix where he can get the best of both worlds - leisure guests as well as business travellers. On top of this, the hotel is able to invite Michelin guest chefs on a regular basis offers Esko the opportunity to work

with a melange of nationalities - be it guests, kitchen staff or cuisines. Being able to adapt a breakfast buffet to the myriad of nationalities from far and near which Capella Singapore has is a challenge that is close to impossible, Jakob explains. “Everyone misses something. And in a resort setting the tempo in which you serve guests varies.” Romantic guests on honeymoon want to savour and enjoy a long lunch by the pool for two hours. Businessmen require effective and prompt service, so the challenge lies in accommodating all kinds of wishes and guest types. “Running such an operation is more difficult than if you’re one hundred per cent resort where you can more easily design menus and service for that kind of guest clientele,” he explains.

Corporate career Jakob Esko’s first job with Capella Hotels and Resorts was in Mexico. From here he later moved to Ireland before eventually coming to Singapore. Before that, he worked with the Ritz-Carlton group, which has the same founder. “Ritz-Carlton and Capella have more or less the same philosophy and back then the brand had just started with only a few hotels. It sounded more interesting to be part of building things from the early days within a new and exciting company

such as Capella.” Before his time with Ritz-Carlton, he worked in Spain for five years, toning his skills at some of Spain’s top kitchens and prior to that he worked with fine-dining establishments such as Ulriksdals Wärdshus in Sweden, Hotel Juana Restaurant La Terrasse Christian Morisset in France and La Tante Claire in England.

course dinner with dessert buffet. Hans will do the starter and main course while we’ll handle canapés, desserts and the other dishes. I look forward to this very much.” Sweden’s Ambassador to Singapore also last year invited Jakob to create a modern Swedish food event for local food writers as part of the Sweden promotion here.

Swedish roots

Mediterranean food

Jakob Esko was schooled in the best of Swedish traditions at the legendary Ulrikdals Wärdshus outside Stockholm, which serves one of the best smorgasbords in the country. “But that’s 12 years ago and I have hardly cooked any such food at all since. Some elements of Swedish cuisine sometimes take place at Capella Singapore. Last year, aScandinavian bank requested such a Christmas dinner and now they wish to make it into an annual event. “It is fun to get to do a Swedish ‘Julbord’. I am composing the menu now for them, funnily enough, in the middle of the summer. That’s exciting.” He also discloses that the upcoming New Years Eve bonanza will welcome 2013 with a Nordic twist: Executive Chef Hans Boren from the Michelin-starred restaurant 28+ in Gothenburg, Sweden has been invited for the occasion. Jakob and Hans worked together 13 years ago. “Regarding the food the dinner will be a Scandinavian journey, a four-

But it is not his Swedish cooking skills that landed him the job at Capella. Here, Jakob Esko is valued for his European, modern Mediterranean cooking skills which he dedicated many years into developing. “I lived five years in Spain and also in France for a year and love Mediterranean food.” He oversees all dining elements and the team of fifty chefs and in particular makes his mark on the hotel’s all day dining The Knolls which is dedicated to Mediterranean influences, while blending international food with the flavours and textures of Asian culinary treasures. His Sous Chef, Cristia Nou Picart from Barcelona also adds to The Knolls Mediterranean hallmark. Worth highlighting for healthconscious people one can find a healthy masculine choice-diet for males and a wide selection of light, low-carbohydrate salads, soups and menu items that complement the lifestyle and well-being for the ladies.

October 2012 • ScandAsia.eMag 51

Danish rock in two generation:

Four concerts in Vietnam and Cambodia for charity The Danish A-BAND will visit Vietnam in the period of 28th of October and will finish in HCMC in the 2nd of November. From there they will go to Cambodia from the 7th to the 10th of November. By Indius Pedersen

A-BAND is a Danish two generations

Rock ‘n’ Roll band consisting of both professional and semiprofessional musicians. First and foremost they play for fun and because they like playing together. They love Soul and Rock ‘n’ Roll and have done concert in 12 countries. Latest in Cuba. Now the time has come to visit Vietnam and Cambodia as a part of their World Tour. They will play at venues in Hanoi, Hoi An and HCMC in Vietnam and a concert in X Bar in Siem Riep, Cambodia.

Four concerts “We play four concerts. Three in Vietnam and one in Siem Riep, Cambodia. The venues suggest that they get an agreement with a beer producer, and the beer they sell goes to charity, in every city”, says Mr. Jon Falkenberg Jonsén, spokesman of A-BAND, Denmark. A-BAND has through a period of 15 years given rock classics as Tutti Frutti, C.C. Rider, Jail House Rock, and soul songs like Midnight Hour, Sweet nothing, Leave Your Hat On a touch of themselves as goes for arrangement and sound. One of the remarkable things about the band is the Rock ‘n Roll voice of the lead-singer with its tight swinging band, including a great choir. A-BAND has - in addition to playing on port feasts and festivals to great success as well as to plenty of private events - in Denmark, played 52 ScandAsia.eMag • October 2012

concerts for the opening of the «International Sailing Week» and «International Beer festival» in the Olympic city Qingdao in China 2009. Other venues have included concerts in Malaga, Spain, and Gambia, Africa. In addition, the band combined a sail-and concert tour in the Caribbean in 2008, where they played in Grenada, the Netherlands Antilles, as well as Bonaire. In the summer of 2010 they went on a trip to the Greek archipelago, where A-BAND created great joy with concerts on Kea, Mykonos, Syros and Naxos. In the spring of 2011 they were on a trip to Cuba, where A-BAND created great joy with 2 concerts in Habana and also had concerts in Trinidad and Cienfuegos. “A-BAND see themselves as music ambassadors to pass on the legacy of musicians, that have inspired them and we love to interact with people through music in different countries” says leadsinger Lasse Hadberg. A-BAND visit Vietnam in the period of 27th of October and finish in HCMC on the 2nd of November. They play in Siem Riep, Cambodia, the 10th of November Everyone is welcome to rock the house.

“Let the good times rock ‘n roll……”

A-BAND Tour program: • Hanoi the 27th of October in Hanoi Rock City • Hoi An, Dive Bar the 1st of November • HCMC, Hard Rock Café the 2nd of November • Siem Riep, Cambodia the 10th of November

October 2012 • ScandAsia.eMag 53

Quests for templ Norwegian expat Dr. Nils B. Vogt spends much of his time searching for temple caves in Thailand. Long journeys and steep hills do not stop him from hunting for his treasures. By Wachirapon Janrut

ndiana Jones’ quests for ancient treasure have long fascinated movie fans. After all, many people would love to discover an ancient cave filled with precious relics that tell stories of many years past. The earth is an ancient machine - one packed with many secrets. Start to discover these secrets and you’re most likely to get hooked. That’s what happened to Norwegian expat Dr. Nils B. Vogt. Dr. Nils - as most people call him in Thailand - spends much of his time searching for temple caves in Thailand. Long journeys and steep hills do not stop him from hunting for his treasures. “I just want to see them. It’s like finding jewels,” says Dr. Nils.

Long education

Farangs who came here either sit on a beach or enjoy the nightlife. I don’t think many of them have seen temple caves. I’d like to present different perspectives of what Thailand has to offer.

54 ScandAsia.eMag • October 2012

Born in Bangkok in 1954, Dr. Nils Vogt is half-American half-Norwegian. His parents moved to Thailand before he was born and Dr. Nils spent his childhood in Thailand until he was six. Then he left Thailand and travelled around the world twice with his family before they ended up in Norway in 1961. Dr. Nils went to school in Norway. He has a Master’s Degree in Chemistry and a Dr. Philos degree in “Chemometrics and Chemosystematics”. He also has an MBA. His working experience includes a rather wide range of industries - Pharmaceutical/Nutraceutical through Solar/Plastics to Finance and Company Start-Up (Seed) funding and he has worked in many different

le caves Tham Wat Kiriwong (Phang-Nga)

Wat Tham Khao Laew in Kanchanaburi

functions within these industries from Manager to CEO & President.

To Norway - and back For many years Dr. Nils enjoyed travelling to Thailand for both business and leisure. It was on one of these trips, that he met his wife Khun Sompit Panpipat. After 18 months of convincing her to marry him, he succeeded. The couple lived in Bergen for 3 years and later moved to live in Ålesund for a year. After living in the two most beautiful cities in Norway for a total of 4 years, the couple decided to move back to live in Thailand in 2006. “In fact, a friend of mine said to me that it seems like you have always wanted to move to Thailand. I didn’t think about it until now,” says Dr. Nils. “It’s worrisome. My first language was Thai but I can’t speak Thai anymore and I find it difficult to learn.” The couple owns SiamAlgamate company in Bangkok selling their proprietary Oxo-Bio Degradable Plastic Additive (Noibei). Khun Sompit also runs the small apartment building and a brokerage for industrial conveyor belts.

Time for Isaan photos After over 25 years of working, Dr. Nils decided to retire 4 years ago as his ambition is no longer success in business. “I don’t have a big ambition to fulfill anymore,” says Dr. Nils. Fascinated with the Khmer influence in the northeastern parts of Thailand (Isaan) and the Prasats (old Khmer ruins from the Angkor era from about 8th - 12th century),

Dr. Nils started photography as his hobby and established Isaanphoto. com, presenting the beauty of Prasats from the Khmer Empires and the way of life in Isaan today. He learned a lot about history, ancient cultures and arts in Isaan and throughout Southeast Asia. Isaan has an interesting history. Positioned in the center of the mainland in Southeast Asia, Isaan was a meeting place of people, cultures and empires. “I think I became a Thailand and Southeast Asia history buff. These places that I have been to are steeped in history. To some people the Prasats simply look like ‘piles of stones,’ but the beauty lies in imagining what was there before,” says Dr. Nils.

The first temple cave Three years ago when Dr. Nils travelled to Rayong with his wife, he happened across a temple cave for the first time. “It was so pretty and peaceful. And I wondered how many people would have seen it. I think foreigners and even Thais don’t realize that there are so many beautifully kept temple caves in Thailand,” says Dr. Nils. “The thrill of seeing the temple caves had me hooked. After that, I’ve been around searching for more temple caves,” adds Dr. Nils. Dr. Nils took various road trips to search for temple caves in many parts of Thailand. He said that the estimated number of registered caves in Thailand is over 4,000, though sources estimate that the real num-

ber is double. Many of the temple caves are in the North (Chiang Rai), along the border to Myanmar (Kanchanaburi is famous) and down to i.e. Phuket and Krabi. But there are clusters practically all over Thailand. “I found a couple of nice clusters in the Provinces Loei and Phetchabun and in Nakhon Sawan stretching in to Saraburi Province. He enjoys taking pictures of the temple caves and is working on a Picture-Guide book that will also include descriptions and directions. So far he has found over 300 temple caves in Thailand and has collected pictures from about 30 temple caves for his book. Dr. Nils has also read a lot of books about history and Buddhism in Thailand and how temple caves emerged. He certainly knows about Thai history and Buddhism more than an average Thai person who grew up here.

Want to open their eyes “Farangs who came here either sit on a beach or enjoy the nightlife. Many don’t know about history and I don’t think many of them have seen temple caves. I’d like to present different perspectives of what Thailand has to offer,” says Dr. Nils. There will be 3 categories of temple caves in Dr. Nil’s book; 1) Those temple caves that he has visited where pictures, description, direction and maps will be included 2) Registered Temple caves that he hasn’t been to but he knows where they are and 3) Possible temple caves. Our talk with Dr. Nils was cer-

tainly entertaining as he has had a lot of adventures and knowledge of historical events to share. From one of many interesting stories, he told how he found a possible temple cave in Mae Phim in Rayong. “I went to Rayong with my wife and some friends. We found 3 signs to a temple cave that I haven’t seen registered anywhere, but I just had to seek it out,” says Dr. Nils. It was in the middle of the day near the border between Rayong and Chantaburi provinces. After a few hours searching, he thought he wouldn’t find it. With despair, he turned his 4-wheel drive car around and headed for home. Thinking it was his way out, he went for 500 meters and turned left. And there it was. The small hill with 2 stunningly beautiful temple caves that he didn’t expect to find was right in front of him. “Wow… it was like I found a jewel,” Dr. Nils says with a dreamy voice. “Finding the temple caves made me so happy,” he adds. For those who are interested in temple caves, Dr. Nils’s book will (hopefully) be published by the end of this year. Some of the temple caves he found are featured here with pictures and description.

Nils B. Vogt, Dr. Philos Tel: +668 5661 0900 E-mail: me@nbvogt.com or nbv@gmail.com

October 2012 • ScandAsia.eMag 55

Novelist Caroline Allen

Coaching writers in memoir and novel wri She has helped people from all backgrounds all over the world, including Singapore and Asia, to unlock their creative potential. Thanks to Skype, it’s possible to coach business executives, farmers, and housewives, actors, a former prostitute wherever they may be - all with one thing in common: a burning desire to write their story. Meet Caroline, who is also a visual artist, for a conversation on creativity, her unique coaching of writers, and even her thoughts on Stieg Larsson’s character Lisbet Salander of the Millennium series. By Andrea Hessmo Photo by Adrien Bisson

I want to build an empire, a huge network of creative coaches and writers and help people unlock their true selves.

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fter an international journalism career at The Financial Times and The Independent in London, as well as for newspapers in Asia, former American expat Caroline Allen decided to devote herself to fiction writing, painting, coaching and spiritual practice. Why do expats want to write? We leave our security for new customs and we’re embedded in another culture. When I lived in Japan, not a single custom resonated, not even the lettering. This pushes us deep into ourselves where even survival taps our deepest creativity. It’s difficult to live in another culture, it’s life changing and sometimes you can’t go back. You don’t fit in anywhere any longer and you may have to accept that. But not fitting in is the mark of writers of all time, so it’s as if being an expat is training for being a writer. Who are your clients and how do they find you? It happens quite magically. They come in serendipitous ways by word of mouth, some google me cold or they read my blog. Right now I have clients such as a Microsoft employee, a farmer, a financial advisor, a metaphysical healer. I have to figure out how to help people who cannot afford it. I try to give a scholarship a year. You are committed to help women finding their voice. In what ways do women need help with that compared to men? Throughout history women have been told to shut up and play a secondary role. A lot of the time, women don’t even feel they have a right to express what they’re feeling and sometimes they don’t even know what to say. Men seem to be given that freedom from a young age. When you start working with a client, do you start from scratch or do they already have an idea for a novel or memoir? All of the above. Sometimes people come to me with an idea for a

character like Tess Hardwick whose novel Riversong got published and has done very well. Or someone will have written 40 000 words and know something is missing. How does the coaching process work and what are the benefits of it? I talk the story through with the client one-on-one via Skype. It shaves off about half the time it takes to write a novel, it’s more focused. Writers also don’t feel so alone when they have someone who intimately knows their story. The main benefit is keeping the person accountable to produce words and that makes them go faster. Why don’t more professionals in the industry do this kind of coaching? It’s very challenging work and I resisted it in the beginning. Right now, I’ve got 15 people’s stories in my psyche, it’s like creatively dating 15 people. You need to have the artistic side to be able to do it but also the counselling and guidance part. You have recently hired Jon Sternfeld, a former literary agent from New York. How will you be working together? I bring the soulful metaphysical storytelling aspect and he brings the extensive experience of bringing a book all the way to publication. He knows exactly how to do that which is so exciting. He’ll also be coaching and his expertise is content editing. When a book needs to be popped up to high professional standard, he goes through it and looks at language, structure and plot. You are both an artistic, psychic and a spiritual guide Yes and that’s part of who I am. I’m fascinated with psychology and the way people are and think, especially around creativity. What are the creative blocks for an American? For a Scandinavian? It’s different with different cultures. It’s an intimate collaborative creative process. If you are a novelist and you align with it, every door will open for you to be able to do your novel.

iting What are the reasons for people not going ahead with writing that book? When you write or do any art, you’re expressing what you really feel. A lot of people have issues that come up and if you haven’t dealt with it, it sits like a weight on top of that creativity. Usually it’s a hurt from childhood or a strenuous focus on perfectionism. I think when you’re new at any art you’re really bad at it. That’s just true. I look at my old paintings and they suck and that can really shut down a person creatively. Julia Cameron writes about this in “The Artist’s Way.” The book is a little New Age, but many people have this issue. It’s so much easier for all of us to be a critic. In Scandinavia we’re currently being very entrepreneurial about exporting our crime novels. What do you think of Stieg Larsson’ trilogy? I was really addicted to the Dragon Tattoo books. I haven’t seen female character as abused and raw and full of spit and intelligence as Lisbet Salander. That’s what did it for me. And I didn’t even know about the success of the crime literature genre in Scandinavia. Many Scandinavian expats do think of writing in English after spending time abroad but they worry about not being an English native speaker/ writer. What are your experiences? I have clients who worry about it. A powerful story can carry you far. You can hire a content editor to clean up the language. The English of a non-native speaker can be more lyrical, more quirky and that’s a publishing advantage right there. I love it and find it so profoundly interesting to read. Do you coach writers who write in another language than English? That’s my goal for my coaching company Art of Storytelling, to have coaches across Europe and Asia who can coach in several languages. AofS is expanding every day so the answer is yes. What about talent? Of course, there are people with

logical planetary crisis is speeding up individual spiritual evolution, and I believe writing is part of some people’s evolutionary process. What authors are your greatest influences? I come from a rural upbringing in Missouri. We hunted and butchered animals and grew our own food. When I was a little girl, there were no books in the house but the King James bible. I took it inside the bathroom every night for weeks, locked the door and read it from start to finish. So the biggest influence was that bible as well as spiritual and philosophical thinkers.

more talent than others. My novel Earth was sent out to top publishers who gave great feedback but it has yet to be picked up. The message I’m getting is that all my four novels will be finished before they get published, similar to Stieg Larsson’s Dragon Tattoo books. I’m saying this because sometimes people think that talent means you get published. Some people just need to write because it’s their soul’s path. And yes, some people have talent that the publishing industry cannot even see. I’m all for my clients getting published! That’s why I hired Jon. Tell us about your novels Earth, Air, Fire and Water I woke up in the middle of the night seven years ago and the four novels Earth, Air, Fire and Water went through me like a wordless epiphany. The novels are mystical and represent a person’s evolution towards what Carl Jung calls individuation, a person’s spiritual evolution from be-

ing just a drone of society to understanding who they are. Earth is about a person who has never left home and they only know the customs and ways of their family. Air is about leaving that to be an expat, it’s about floating above the culture and in that separation from the culture you knew, you start to get stripped down to your essence. You get to see who you are behind all the things you thought you were and you took for granted. Fire is when you crash and burn because you really don’t know who you are anymore. All the structures and foundations that held you up had to be completely torn down so you can start from scratch. Water is about the healing process. Your novels are also about the ecological breakdown of the planet Yes, I’m fascinated with how tsunamis, earthquakes, global warming affect our psyche as humans. How do we remain stable when the very earth is unstable? I believe the eco-

You were raised Catholic Yes but I’m not Catholic now. I went to a Catholic school for 15 years and was taught by nuns and brothers, it was very intense. Most of the nuns didn’t advocate open creativity; they slapped you down with rulers. Still, I had insatiable curiosity, I was the top student with straight As and I had a scholarship for university with everything paid for, so some aspects worked for me. The contemplative side of a religious education influenced me. The brothers chose a sacred inner lifestyle instead of say, a life of going to the mall. I admired that. What are your ultimate goals with Art of Storytelling? I want to build an empire, a network of creative coaches and writers and help people unlock their true selves. I’m seeing screen-writers coming to me now, song writers, writers who are also visual artists. Still, I need to do my own art too so I can’t do it on my own. I’m looking for clients who are committed to their creativity, and coaches all over the world who want to be part of this immense global creative output.

More information on Caroline Allen and her coaching of writers: http://www.carolineallen.com/ http://www.artofstorytellingonline.com/

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What name? “It doesn’t matter whether the cat is black or white, as long as it catches mice.” Spoken by one-time Chinese leader Deng Xiaoping a few decades ago, those words can apply to almost every situation. They don’t apply, however, to Western companies that are branding themselves for the Chinese market. By Alexandra Leyton Esoinoza

he right name does matter – and is crucial for the company’s success. Coca-Cola learned that lesson – the hard way. When the soft drink maker entered China in 1928, it did not have an official Chinese translation of its name. To make the brand appeal to locals, shopkeepers reportedly put Chinese characters together to make the phonetic sound “ko-ka-ko-la.” Unfortunately for Coke, the translation meant “Bite the wax tadpole.” The Coca-Cola company soon realized it needed to find four Chinese characters whose pronunciations approximated the sound of the brand’s name, without producing a nonsensical, or adverse, meaning when strung together as a written phrase. After researching over 40,000 Chinese characters they came up with the name “Ke Kou Ke Le,”which means “mouthful of happiness,” or literally “to allow the, mouth to be able to rejoice.” Now, Coca-Cola is widely recognized as one of the most successful brand names in China.

Appealing? “I asked my employees to help me with the branding of my name in Chinese,” says Rurik Nystrom, who started his company, redBANG International, in 2000. The company is the largest supplier of city guides in China. “My company’s English name made it easy where they just translated red to “hong.” In China, red symbolizes good fortune and joy. We then added a phonetic sound of the

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word Bang to “bang,” or great! Even if I can’t relate the translation 100 percent, since I am not a Chinese speaker, I believe my employees did a great job,” he adds. Studies on product branding in China indicate cross-cultural translation of a brand name, in both content and context, must appeal to the local market. At the same time, the translation must stay true to the brand’s global image. MSL China, one of the world’s top five international PR and social media companies, assist companies achieve both objectives. “With any kind of branding, it’s important not only to have a memorable and nice-sounding name, but also to demonstrate what the brand stands for and consistently reinforce it. It’s also critical to register your trademarks for Chinese brand names, and you should research this before choosing a brand name,” says Bill Adams, director at MSLChina. In China, however, this can be particularly difficult. The Chinese language is radically different from languages that use Roman letters and, as a result, it is not easy to achieve a direct translation. In addition, the meanings of the chosen characters will play an important role, and may communicate product attributes, benefits, country-of-origin, traditional and modern values and beliefs and customs. “Many companies will try to translate their names both phonetically and literally, but this is not always possible,” Adams says. MSLChina has worked with this

for almost a decade. “We agree on criteria with the client, including the brand connotations and what the brand name should communicate,” Adams says. “If they want a name that sounds similar to the international name, we develop a short list with 10 options confirmed by the client. This is usually done through workshops and screening against the criteria, and we do dialect and geographical testing to make sure the names are OK. During this process, we get five finalists. After confirmation by client, we leave three to five final options for legal approval and trademark registration.”

Time consuming Kerry Cai, corporate account manager for Corporation China, a company that provides legal, financial, registration, outsourcing and HR services, believes a good name is important, especially given China’s cultural references. “Chinese people really care about Fengshui so having a good name will bring good luck to the business. But many foreign companies don’t care about this,” she says. Before Corporation China helps a foreign firm develop its strategy for the Chinese market, it requires the company to pick a Chinese name so it can register. The process can be both costly and time consuming. The Beijing Administration for Industry and Commerce will not allow a company to register until it has a Chinese name.

Positive translation Many companies, especially when

trying to make a literal translation, still use common Chinese characters, such as “le” ( ), which means happy, or “bai” ( ), which means 100, because they have positive connotations in Chinese. Companies also choose relevant characters for their translations. For example, IKEA adopted “yijia” ( ) for its Chinese name. “Yi” means suitable or fitting while “jia” means family or home. The implication, from the Chinese name, is that IKEA’s furniture is good and suitable for your home. Sometimes, the phonetic translation of a company’s name will have similarities with other brands, and that will prevent the company from using its name in advertisements. Philip Wenzel Kylh, who helped establish a foreign travel agency in China, has been through that experience. “Our travel company’s English name is Albatross. First, we tried to find a translation to the English name but our Chinese friends, colleagues and employees found it ridiculous. Since they are our target market, we changed to a phonetic translation with positive Chinese characters for the name. The bureau approved the name and also informed us that the phonetic translation was similar to another brand, rendering advertising useless,” he says. “The process has been time consuming, and, at this point, we are unsure if we will use a Chinese name at all. Most of our clients speak English, and we hope they understand the meaning of the English word Albatross,” he adds. Some brands have never used

the Chinese names they have registered. For example, Quaker and Ralph Lauren are two well-known brands that did not create a Chinese name when they entered the Chinese market.

Therefore, their Chinese names evolved mainly through consumers’ perceptions of the brands. For example, consumers labeled Quaker as “Lao Ren Paii” ( ), which literally translates to “old man brand,”

while Ralph Lauren became known as “San Jiao Ma” ( ), which translates as “three-legged horse.” What is usually the budget for companies for this specific cost? “This is really up to the company. Some pay PR/advertising agencies large fees to get the perfect name. Other companies, who do not have big budgets, will sometimes rely on their Chinese colleagues to do this in house,” Adams says.

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Danish village in Sam

60 ScandAsia.eMag â&#x20AC;˘ October 2012

m Roi Yod expands Five new 120 sqm houses or smaller 60 sqm single units about to be added to popular Talay Tara vacation village in Sam Roi Yod. By Gregers Moller

alay Tara is a Danish vacation village near Sam Roi Yod beach and the national park in Prachuabkhirikhan, three hours south of Bangkok. The village today has around 80 houses built in clusters of 16 houses, each centered around a big swimming pool. The Danish owners are now opening up a new phase of Talay Tara, which will make 16 new units available for sale. ften of the unit. Fourteen of the units may be combined two-by-two into a larger house of 120 sqm with a private rooftop terrace. These are offered at around 1.1 mill Danish kroner. Single units are half the size and a little more than half the price but still contains bedroom, bathroom, kitchen / living room and private rooftop terrace. “I think they will all be gone by the end of this year, because the whole Talay Tara is now near completion and buyers no longer need to see a vision - we are already here,” says resident manager and owner Poul Waehling.

ther be an Irish Pub and a restaurant with a large 50 sqm kitchen. “The kitchen and the two outlets - the restaurant and the deli and bakery - will consolidate Talay Tara’s current position as the best dining place in Sam Roy Yod,” Poul Waehiling explains.

New service center

Who owns what?

Along with the new residential cluster comes a new service center for the whole of Talay Tara. This center will have a small supermarket with a delicatessen and a bakery. These will also serve the growing number of other high society Thai residents and foreigners in the area. There will fur-

Respecting the law that foreigners cannot buy land in Thailand a special ownership model has been set up. The company that owns the land that Talay Tara is built on is Jysk Development Co., Ltd.. This Thai company is owned partly by Poul Waehling’s Thai wife, and partly by

a holding company that Poul and his Danish partner Anker Olesen have set up together in Thailand. To separate land and house ownership, Jysk Development Co., Ltd. has set up two 100% owned subsidiaries - Talay Tara Co., Ltd.

and Jysk Construction Co., Ltd. When you buy a house, you set up a 30 year rental agreement for the land with Talay Tara Co., Ltd. while Jysk Construction Co., Ltd. is the company that you pay to build your house.

Rent a house It is also possible to rent a single unit or a double unit as most residents of Talay Tara do not live in their houses all year round. They use it for their own vacations and then put it up for rent the rest of the time. The Talay Tara office staff makes sure the house has been cleaned when you arrive, new linen is on the beds, the refrigerator is plugged in the water heater has been checked etc. To go exploring the beautiful area along the coast of Sam Roi Yod and up in the tropical jungle hills of the area you can rent bicycles at the office, or car with chauffeur for trips further away in the region. Talay Tara can also take care of your laundry and all sorts of practical things.

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Go Nuts on Koh Phangan Coconuts! Before backpackers and other good people started coming to the Full Moon parties on Koh Phangan, coconuts provided one of the main streams of income on the island. By Gregers Moller

oconuts used to be one of the main sources of income for the people of Koh Phangan long before the advent of tourism. Even today, the coconut plantations continue to be much more than just a beautiful backdrop for the islands many resorts. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s serious business! Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s take a quick tour, starting with the obvious. The coconut.

Monkey business Many tours around the island will include a demonstration how to pick coconuts: Trained monkeys climb up the trees and with a swift twist with their hands they detach the nut and let it drop to the ground. When one tree is done, they jump from the palm leaves to the next

tree to continue. Sometimes, the locals arrange friendly competitions whose monkey can pick most nuts in a given time.

The coconut factory One of the remaining coconut factories on Koh Phangan is found on Ban Tai Road just 50 meters from the entrance to Wat Khao Tam. Here you can see pickup trucks deliver coconuts harvested all around Koh Phangan. At the factory, the nuts are first freed from their thick layer of fibres before being sent off to every province in Thailand. The nuts are in high demand as many Thais believe coconuts from Koh Phangan and Koh Samui are more tasty than coconuts from other province in the country. The long fibres that are peeled off

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the hard shells have a myriad of uses and are a product in itself.

The coconuts Apart from the tasty, white flesh that you can readily scoop out and eat, the water inside the coconut is a great refreshing drink with its slightly sweet taste. The water is said to have many beneficial functions from a booster of the immune system to ridding the body of intestinal parasites. Coconut milk is essential in the Thai cusine. It can be included in almost all their dishes but are essential in all curry dishes and in many soups like the famous Tom Kha Gai soup. The coconut meat is used to make candies, pastries, and even ice cream. Heating the meat will also extract the oil, which can be used

for cooking, and even moisturizer for the hair and skin. The oil is a chapter on its own with a myriad of uses. Traditionally, matured coconut meat or copra was used for producing a non cholesterol cooking oil. But these days the oil finds a more refined use in all spas all over the island offering oil massage with coconut oil or scalp and hair treatment using coconut oil. Coconut oil is even being explored as a potential biofuel! The coconut shell, which in the past was often used as charcoal for cooking, is today more often used in producing decorative artwork, jewelry and souvenirs.

The fibres The fibrous material found between the outer coat of a coconut

and the hard, internal shell is technically called coir. These natural fibres are used in products such as floor mats, doormats, brushes, mattresses, etc. Brown coir - made from ripe coconut - are also used in upholstery padding, sacking and horticulture while white coir - harvested from unripe coconuts - is used for making finer brushes, string, rope and fishing nets. The fibres are also sold as a soil conditioner for gardening

The leaves But almost all the parts of the tree can be used for a variety of purposes and products. The leaves used to be the most common material for people on Koh Phangan and elsewhere arond the country when thatching their roofs or for weaving sleeping mats and separation walls. These days, with the increasing number of tourists to Koh Phangan, fresh green palm leaves have found a new popular use as cool straw hats. Also the center spine of the leaves have found good use as barbecue skewers in all the beachfront restaurants around the island. Traditionally, these coconut ribs were used for brooms and sold both for household purpose and street cleaning.

timber. In later years, the wood has also found its way into furniture production. One of the advantages of using coconut wood in the furniture industry and in the flooring industry is that the wood has no annual growth rings, rays, heartwood or branches, meaning that coconut timber is free from knots and other such imperfections. Many craftsmen and carpenters prefer working with coconut wood because it is very strong and durable - as seen from how the the trees sway with the wind and donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t break even in strong typhoons.

The sap While the tree is still on its root, you can tap the sap from the palm tree. Syrup based on coconut sap is a popular product sold in many shops as a souvenir product to bring home to your friends and colleagues after your vacation. The syrup this is also processed into various kinds of candy. Locally on Koh Phangan, the sap also used to be tapped and fermented into wine or liquor, but if this still takes place it is only for domestic use. Instead, palm tree liquor is imported from abroad. Most known products are toddy and kalua that many beach bars offer as a cocktail ingredient mixed with coffee, fruit juices, rum or vodka.

The trunks

The roots

Coconut palm trees provides excellent timber. Many of the huts on the island are built using coconut trunks as the main pillars. Not only is coconut lumber readily available, it also sold at a lower price than any other

Coconut root is still used as a traditional medicine among others for the treatment of diarrhea and dysentery. While its medicinal use is declining, the root is still popular as dye for textile.

How to make a broom of coconut leaves First, choose coconut leaves that are long and with thick midribs. Second, cut the leaves off from the thick, center stem. Third, remove the thin part of the leaves left and right of the midrib with a knife. When you have enough midribs to make a broom you can tie a thick rubber band or any string around the thick end. Your broom is ready! Add a stick on the middle if you wish it more like Harry Potterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s broom. Source: http://www.squidoo.com/how-to-make-a-coconut-broom-or-broomstick October 2012 â&#x20AC;˘ ScandAsia.eMag 63

Wood Care D

Wood has always been a main material for the creation of furniture, walls, floors and many other home decoration products in Thailand. To maintain its charm and beauty, wood requires proper treatments and care.

enmark is famous for its high quality green products for treatments of wood, and good news is that many of these products are also available in Thailand. Bunyarit Rotchanarat is the man bringing the products to the Thai market. “Danish people are fond of wood. Their woodworks also have great designs. And this is the main reason why I moved to Denmark and joined the wood care company there,” Bunyarit Rotchanarat, director of WoodCare International Co., Ltd. told us during a recent interview.

By Wachiraporn Janrut

A graduate of Chulalongkorn university of Thailand, with a master’s degree in Chemistry and a master’s degree in MBA, Bunyarit has always been interested in wood. “A house without wood has no life. Wood can soften and add life to a house,” says Bunyarit. After a few years of work at TOA Company in Thailand, Bunyarit moved to work as General Manager at a German Company called Treffert, where he was in charge of Asia Pacific region. He later moved to Denmark and joined Trip Trap WoodCare in Hadsund in 2004. At this company, he was involved in product developments and was responsible for Southeast Asia and

For more information, contact Protego International Co., Ltd. Tel: +66 (0) 2914 2191 or visit www.protego.co.th

Bunyarit Rotchanarat

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China markets. Together with his team, he provided a technical support to all markets in the region.

Wood Care Company With over 20 years of experience in the wood care business, Khun Bunyarit decided to set up his own business called Wood Care Co., Ltd. in 2009. Apart from wood care products from Denmark, the company also offers wood care products from other countries such as Sweden, Italy and Germany. The wood care products serve many purposes such as wood priming for bringing colours to wood, finishing with natural oils to protect wood, cleaning the oiled wood with natural soap and rejuvenating the oiled wood with natural maintenance oil. Bunyarit puts a lot of work into the selection process of each item to make sure that it suits the Asian environment and markets. The company holds the brand PROTEGO, offering a wide range of premium quality wood care products both for exterior and interior wood treatments. Certified and approved by various institutions in Europe and Singapore, all of the company’s products are either free of ‘Volatile Organic Components’ or with a minimum quantity in order not to compromise the quality of the products. In other words, customers can ensure

a healthy living using the products which are environmentally friendly and do not cause harm to children and animals.

The company’s expansion The three main groups of customers are industrial businesses producing furniture and floors from wood, fivestar hotels & resorts and end users. “One major advantage of our products is that clients can easily use them applying to wood to make it look new again when they want,” he says. The company expanded every year. Since 2009, the company’s products have been distributed in over 20 branches of HomePro in Bangkok and other provinces such as Chiang Mai, Phuket, Samui, Hua Hin, Korat and Kon Kan. Currently, the company exports the products to other countries in South East Asia, China, India and USA. Bunyarit shared the secrets of his success that “Clients are familiar with me and know me as a specialist because I know how to take care of wood from Asia as well as imported wood, so I can give clients good advice. “When I’m with wood, I’m happy. I enjoy talking and suggesting good products for wood. I always train my staff to believe that wood is a living thing. This way they respect wood, know a lot about it, and can also give customers good advice.”

First private museum

From electricity to dz cards - industrious Danes have over the years brought many “firsts” to Thailand. So it feels natural that it had to be a Dane, the Consul General Mr. Anders Normann, that would give Thailand its first private museum - with the Golden Robe of the Danish Admiral Richelieu of the Royal Thai Navy as its most prized item. By Gregers Moller

The Golden Robe that Danish Admiral Andreas de Richelieu received from Rama V is the single most valuable piece of artifact preserved from the Golden Era of Denmark in Thailand during the reign of Rama V King Chulalongkorn around the turn of the past century.

D Solid teakwood panels, glass cabinets, handknoted oriental carpets, embedded lighting in cabinets and ceilings, - Anders Normann has selected only supreme materials for the renovation of the Nicolie Spa and Museum.

Each exhibit has a personal story to tell. This is a unique piece of coral embracing two stacks of antique Chinese porcelain bowls from a Chinese shipwreck.

enmark’s Consul General to Thailand, Mr. Anders Normann has established Thailand’s first privately owned museum in a building he bought in the late 1990’s just off the deep end of Silom Road in Bangkok. This building has been transformed into Thailand’s most exclusive boutique spa, the Nicolie Wellness Center using only the highest quality of interior decoration materials like solid teak from ground floor to the top third floor of the building. The massage treatments take place surrounded by the artifacts of the museum and the quality materials used in the renovation on each spacious floor. The jewel of the exhibition is the well preserved Golden Robe given by Rama V King Chulalongkorn to the Danish Vice Admiral of the Royal Thai Navy Andreas du PLessis de Richelieu - among Thais better known as Phraya Cholayuth Yothin - when he left for Denmark after 27 years of devoted service to the King. This is the single most valuable piece of artifact preserved from the Golden Era of Denmark in Thailand during the reign of Rama V King Chulalongkorn around the turn of the past century.

The robe has been restored by the US-based textile conservator Julia Brennan and is placed in a uniquely designed cabinet with light and mirrors that makes it possible for the visitor to admire the robe both from the from and the back. A booklet has been produced detailing the uniqueness of this robe and its path from being packed up in a bank vault to now being accessible and admired by Thais and Danes alike in the Nicolie Museum. It is obtainable upon visit to the museum which can only be made by prior appointment. On Saturday 8 September, Anders Normann hosted a champagne reception for the board of the Scandinavian Society Siam and treated them to a personally guided tour of his collection. Most of the many historically valuable exhibits are hand picked from his even larger private collection at home(!) primarily for their antique beauty as artifacts by his partner Khun Orawan, who is in charge of the Nicolie Spa. Visits to the Museum and Spa can be arranged by contacting the Nicolie Spa at phone number 02 233 6957 or email reservation@nicolie-th.com. The Nicolie is located at 1041/5 Sun Square, Silom Road (Between Soi 21 - 23) Bangrak, Bangkok 10500.

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Koh Phangan in Stockholm T Picture yourself with a cold Singha, a spicy ‘Som Tam’ and the sound of the sea served with a smile in a small bamboo hut surrounded by glittering lights and green leaves. A magic moment on a beach in Thailand? No, you are in the Koh Phangan restaurant in the middle of Stockholm! By Helene Benno

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he magic of Koh Phangan has been reproduced in three restaurants in Sweden. Only the prices are Swedish and of course the weather outside. But inside you can dream yourself back to your latest vacation to the Thai dream island. The Koh Phangan restaurants count three today. One in Sodermalm and one in Ostermalm in Stockholm and one in Uppsala. The first restaurant opened sixteen years ago, and at that time all together three people were working there. It all started in the early nineties when one of the founders, Thomas Emblad and his brother Lasse went to Thailand for the first time. In those days Thailand was neither the fanciest nor the trendiest country to visit. But for a bunch of backpackers from Sweden it sounded like a moderate challenge. “The only thing we knew in Bangkok was Khao San Road, so that was where we went from the airport,” Thomas recalls. “Then we took a bus to Krabi. Quite disappointed, we decided to take a long tail to Railey beach. When we saw the white beach, the palm trees and the huts, it was like we had found paradise!” Lasse – who was educated as a chef - liked it so much that he spent the winter there. He worked for room and board, and that way

he learned Thai cooking properly. When Lasse came home from Thailand in the spring of 1994 he had taken pictures to show Thomas what kind of restaurant, he would like to open. He had chosen the materials. He had thought of the sounds. And he had, of course, made the menu. To start up a restaurant on one’s own is hard work from dusk till dawn. The guys went to Thailand to buy furniture, bamboo, wood, lights, cushions, ingredients and this and that. Everything was then sent in a container to Sweden. “Our idea was that people who had been to Thailand and liked it as much as we did should have a place to go to where they could have tasty Thai food, discuss diving, talk about Thailand and take it easy.” When they could finally open the tiny restaurant it really looked as if they had moved a small piece of Koh Phangan to Sweden. Only the sand was missing but nobody noticed since everything else felt so totally authentic. From day one the place was jam packed. Koh Phangan quickly became a meeting point for people in Stockholm interested in Thailand and although other restaurants with Thai food has opened later, the Koh Pangan is still unique in Sweden. Check it out: http://www.kohphangan.se/

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Danish Meatballs in Curry

his great tasting traditional Danish recipe is very popular amongst Danes of all ages. It has undoubtedly been introduced in Denmark by seamen returning from the Far East, but there is very little of its original hot spicy taste left. This is a very mildly spiced dish, and many Danish children happily call this their favorite food. INGREDIENTS (Serves 4) Meatballs: • 1 pound ground pork • 3 garlic gloves • 1 cup breadcrumbs or 2 tablespoon flour • 2 finely chopped onions • 1 egg • Salt • Pepper

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Curry Sauce: • 2 tablespoons Danish butter • 2 heaping tablespoons yellow curry • 1 large chopped onion • 1 large chopped leek • 5 tablespoons flour • 3,5 ounces cream 35% • 4 cups Beef stock • chopped fresh parsley (just enough for a light sprinkling just prior to serving)

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PREPERATION Meatballs: Mix Breadcrumbs or flour, egg, onions, garlic salt and pepper go into a big bowl. Add ground pork and mix it well again. Leave the mixture in the fridge for 1 hour. Scoop up the meatballs with a tablespoon, and place in boiling water with the beef stock. Boil for 5-10 minutes, depending on the size of the meatballs. Take meatballs out of the water, but keep the water (you will need it for the Curry Sauce). Curry Sauce: Melt butter in a pot. Add curry and brown it for a couple of minutes. Add onions and leek and brown it for a couple of minutes. Add flour and mix well. Add water from meatballs a little bit at the time, until the sauce thickens. Add cream and meatballs. Let it simmer for 12 mins. Serve with boiled rice, and sprinkle with parsley on top. Enjoy! October 2012 • ScandAsia.eMag 67