ScandAsia Thailand July 2013

JUL 2013

Children of the Forest from bamboo classrooms to a brighter future ScandAsia.dk

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2 ScandAsia.Thailand • July 2013

Opinion

Skip the beach and go on an adventure with the ScandAsia Test Team 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.

Please sign up for your own FREE copy: www.scandasia.com Publisher : 211 Soi Prasert Manukitch 29 Prasert Manukitch Road Chorakae Bua, Lad Prao Bangkok 10230, Thailand Tel. +66 2 943 7166-8, Fax: +66 2 943 7169 E-mail: news@scandasia.com

W

hy not go on a holiday filled with adventure far from your everyday experiences? How about taking a trip in a hot air balloon in Laos, riding an elephant in Thailand or maybe go rock climbing in Vietnam? Far from the crowded tourist spots of Southeast Asia there are unique activities and sceneries to be explored.

ScandAsia would like you to go on an adventure with us - and share your experience with other readers.

The ScandAsia Test Team is our new travel initiative. The idea is - in cooperation with our readers - to bring you the best of activities and experiences from not only Thailand, but all of Southeast. The idea is simple.

Firstly, we need to see that you can write a proper travel article and have an average command of a camera.

After that we equip you with a letter of authority saying that you are a part of the ScandAsia Test Team and that in return for an article with photos, we ask for a complimentary trip. ”It has been a positive experience and the organizers are very friendly and interested when we show them the letter and say that we would like to do a review for ScandAsia. If they say yes it also means that they have a great product that they really want to promote,” said Sebastian. Sebastian and his girlfriend Ida have been around quite a bit using the Test Team letter, and with great success.

So far the couple has gone air ballooning, rock climbing, kayaking, fishing for piranhas and much more.

“Ziplining with Flight of the Gibbon was amazing. It was quite expensive and our budget wouldn’t have allowed if we hadn’t done it for the Test Team. The hot air balloon in Laos was great as well because it was so quirky and different.”

While Sebastian and Ida have many action-packed activities on the resume, you don’t have to be a regular Indiana Jones to be part of the team. Sebastian’s favorite trip was a simple and mellow fishing trip.

“My best experience is very subtle. Piranha fishing in Pai was in the middle of nowhere and we had few expectations but it turned out to be great.”

The next activities for the adventurous couple is getting a diver’s certificate on Koh Tao, climbing and white water rafting in Krabi and a trip to Universal Studios in Singapore.

The everyday life for most of us is filled with repeats and routines. But why have a holiday filled with repeats? Have an adventure with ScandAsia – join the Test Team.

Read their articles here: www.scandasia.com/author/testteam

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

Daily news and features here: www.scandasia.com

Sebastian Buur, 30, studies photo journalism at the Danish School of Journalism.

Ida Holt, 22, is a freelance writer for an advertising company in Denmark.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED BY SCANDINAVIAN SOCIETY

Coming Events

Thailand – Scandinavian business fair and summer party Date: 13 July 2013 Location: Baan Norway,

Thapraya Road Soi 15,

Pattaya If you are a Scandinavian business owner or simply in the mood for a party with a Nordic touch then mark your calendar for July 13! On that date a fair for Scandinavian businesses followed by the Nordic bash of the year is found in Jomtien, Pattaya. The event is hosted by VIP-Reiser Thailand.

Asides from the party there will also be a race with different posts with assignments starting at 2.30 pm. There can be 1-4 persons in a team and there should be a driver on each team. There will be a total of 10 posts and there will be a prize for the winners of the race.

The party will take off at 6 pm at Baan Norway. There will be a large buffet dinner The dinner itself will be a large buffet and a bar. During the dinner there will be entertainment on stage and after the dinner there will be a professional band and other features.

If you wish to participate in the race and party, the price is 2,000 baht per person. If you only wish to join the party the price is 1,500 baht.

Tickets can be bought at Kåre’s Party Bar, Ma Maison Hotel, Pattaya or at New Nordic.

Bangkok Chefs Charity Gala Dinner Date: 17 July 2013, 6.00pm Location: Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok Here’s an extravagant dining event for food lovers. Held for the fifth consecutive year in the Royal Ballroom of Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok, the event will see 26 Executive Chefs from 25 leading hotels in Thailand and Thai Airways International joining together to cook up a grand 10-course dinner. This year, Siam Winery will pair the food with a host of premium and award-winning wines from the company’s World of Wines portfolio in addition to the locally produced and bottled Monsoon Valley wines. Emcee for the gala evening will be the popular actor Shahkrit Yamnarm.

The event will once again be presided over by Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn with proceeds going towards Border Patrol Police Schools under Her Royal Highness’s Patronage as well as underprivileged children in the remote Amphur Omkoy in Chiang Mai. Last year’s event raised 12 million baht. The event is organised by Gourmet One, importer and supplier of fine foods. Tickets are Baht 12,500 net per seat (for tables of 10).

For more information or to book seats, please call Khun Nuntiya Hame-ung-Gull on 081 732 1018

Multimedia art exhibition by Jorge Carlos Smith: Blur Date:

Location:

Now until 18 July 2013, Tuesday – Sunday, 4-10pm WTC Café and Gallery, Sukhumvit Soi 51, Thonglor

The multi-media art exhibition by Jorge Carlos Smith features paintings, neon signs, photographs and installations – all made in 2013. Smith’s art depicts his personal interpretation and perception in a dialogue between his fantasy and vague memory which are obliviously overlapping the reality.

Born in Mozambique with ancestral links in Macau, raised in Portugal and England, Jorge Carlos Smith, is a hotelier by trade. Also, he is an avid collector of vinyl, a cook, occasional DJ, designer and closet artist.

Conjuring up a mix of painting, drawing, neon woks, recorded sound and scent boxes, he offers a playful mix of objects that offer viewers an interplay with a personal collection of ideas, thoughts and memories. Admission is free.

For more information, visit www.wtfbangkok.com

Chang Champions Cup FC Barcelona Asia Tour 2013 Date: 7 August 2013, 7.00pm Location: Rajmangala Stadium Chang and FC Barcelona will hold the historic match in Bangkok on August 7.

Lionel Messi and other FC Barcelona superstar players have been confirmed to play the match. Supporting the event are the associates from the public and private sectors including Ministry of Industry, Embassy of Spain in Thailand, Sponsor sport drink, AP Honda Co Ltd, Dhospaak Co Ltd, Sport Authority of Thailand, Football Association of Thailand, Sport Arts Co Ltd. This will be the first time for FC Barcelona to visit Thailand in 11 years.

This exclusive experience is brought to Thai fans by Chang beer. Tickets will be available at Thai Ticket Major.

For more information, visit thaiticketmajor.com

Thailand Tour De Ski 2013 to be held in October The second “Thailand Tour De Ski” will be held on 14 – 20 October 2013. This year’s edition of the tour will be in the heart of “The Golden Triangle” with a rich and strong history. The trail passes through 3 countries; Thailand, Laos and Myanmar.

The track is suitable for most skiers in normal good shape. There will be no major challenges and a pick-up service/help will be available for skiers that might get trouble with equipment or other things in the race. The race will go in classic style for roller ski and free style for roller blades.

Total admission fee is 23,000 baht for participants in the race. Tourists, family and friends can also participate at 18,000 baht per person. All participants have to sign up and pay an application fee of 3,000 baht no later than 1 September 2013.

For more information and sign up, contact Kalle Kristensen kalle.chiangrai@gmail.com Tel: +66819839769 Kjell Isak Sundbø kisun23@gmail.com Tel: +4792237549

6 ScandAsia.Thailand • July 2013

Past Events

Nordic Young Professionals Summer Networking

By Anders Holm Nielsen Photos by Gilles Jack

F

riday, May 31 was the first Young Professionals event at the newlyopened and stylish DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel on Sukhuvmit road.

The night presented a cozy atmosphere with networking in the chic Mosaic bar by the pool. Carlsberg helped set the mood as they served a welcome beer on arrival.

All night through, a mix of complimentary hot/cold savories and sweet dream desserts were served.

Martin Toft Sorensen appeared as the evening’s guest speaker.

Martin Toft Sorensen is the co-founder of WearYouWant.com, which is Thailand’s largest online fashion community, offering thousands of branded product lines across womenswear – including dresses, shoes, accessories, bags, skirt, cosmetics and glasses – and menswear, including jeans, t-shirts, shoes and shirts.

Martin Toft Sorensen shared his thoughts and experiences with launching a new company in Thailand, how to attract new clients and how to promote the website.

The Nordic Young Professionals – Thailand group is a division of the Danish-Thai Chamber of Commerce, aiming for gathering Nordic Young Professionals, interns and students in Bangkok for Networking Events.

The group offers frequent events where you can exchange ideas and experiences with other young Nordics, acquire new friends and expand your network.

To qualify for membership you must to fulfill the following • Originate from Denmark, Sweden, Finland or Norway • Work or study in Thailand on a short or long term basis • Be below 35 years of age Membership of Nordic Young Professionals entitles you to member price at NYP events as well as member price to certain Nordic Chamber events.

For more information, visit www.dancham.or.th or www.facebook.com/NYPThailand

Velkommen, välkommen, tervetuloa, welcome...

Nordea opens International Private Banking branch in Singapore With the opening of its new private banking branch in Singapore, clients resident in Asia can benefit from Nordea’s wealth management expertise, global market access and Nordic approach to doing business, while maintaining their account in the Asian financial centre of Singapore. Address: Nordea Bank S.A., Singapore Branch, 3 Anson Road, #20-01 Springleaf Tower, Singapore 079909 Visit us at www.nordeaprivatebanking.com, call +65 65 97 10 81or email nordea@nordea.sg for more information or to set up a personal meeting.

Making it possible Nordea Bank S.A, Singapore Branch is part of Nordea Group, the leading financial services group in the Nordic and Baltic Sea regions. Some products and services may, due to local regulations, not be available to individuals resident in certain countries and their availability may depend, among other things, on the investment risk profile of persons in receipt of this publication or on any legislation to which they are subject. Nothing in this publication should be construed as an offer, or the solicitation of an offer, to purchase, subscribe to or sell any investment or product, or to engage in any other transaction or provide any kind of financial or banking service in any jurisdiction where Nordea Bank S.A., Singapore Branch or any of its affiliates do not have the necessary licence. Published by Nordea Bank S.A., R.C.S. Luxembourg No. B 14.157 on behalf of Nordea Bank S.A., Singapore Branch, 3 Anson Rd #20-01, Springleaf Tower, Singapore 079909. www.nordeaprivatebanking.com subject to the supervision of the Monetary Authority of Singapore (www.mas.gov.sg).

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19/06/2013 14:307 July 2013 • ScandAsia.Thailand

Past Events

Danish Skt Hans party with bonfire

By Gregers Moller Photos by Disraporn Yatprom

T

he Danish Women’s Network held a well visited traditional Danish Skt Hans evening on Saturday 15 June in the garden of the Danish Ambassador. Chairwoman Susanne Morch entertained in her speech about how difficult it had been to get permission to light up a live bonfire in the garden – but eventually, the Ambassador had agreed.

The Skt Hans bonfire was a major attraction – the grown ups had fun lighting it up and the many kids had fun roasting marshmallows on a stick over it, a great fusion of Danish Skt Hans bonfire and North American campfire traditions.

But first we of course had to sing the midsummer song “Vi elsker vort land…”

The cruelty of burning a witch puppet on the stake – originally a live person – was explained to the kids by Malene Lundsgaard. The presumably last burning of a witch on the stake in Denmark took place in 1693, we were told. But even today, more than 300 years later, we still put a puppet on the fire – there must be some secret appeal about the concept?

In her speech, Susanne Morch thanked all the individuals who had in each their different way contributed to the success of the event – and Carlsberg for sponsoring all the beer. She presented Mrs. Ratanawadee Hemniti Winther with a Royal Copenhagen gift for being kind enough to host the party on her terrace. Two smaller gifts for two staff at the embassy, who had likewise been very helpful, were likewise received by Mrs. Ratanawadee.

The participants had been told in advance that this was a sort of pot luck evening, but to their surprise found a complete summer party buffet with frikadeller, and hot dogs and kartoffelsalat and what have you not. Delicious surprise!

It turned out, that the delicacies were cooked by the Crystal Cafe recently opened by Anne Dorte and Henrik Tvilling in Crystal Design Center in Lad Prao.

The evening started quite early – at 17.00 while the daylight was still bright and the kids could still have fun in the garden although the lawn was a bit of a swamp from the daily rain the past week. In return, the party ended quite early – at 20.00 with a quick cleaning operation whereupon the terrace looked like no party had never taken place there. Well, almost.

All the participants clearly appreciated the efforts of the DWN in arranging this evening. Celebrating Skt Hans evening with a bonfire and a witch puppet is a tradition as dear to the Danes as the Midsummer Majstang is to the Swedes and the 17 May is to the Norwegians. It’s just not a proper summer without it.

8 ScandAsia.Thailand • July 2013

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Past Events

Delightful Swedish Midsummer Celebration

By Wachiraporn Janrut

T

ogether with Thai-Swedish Chamber of Commerce, Rembrandt Hotel Bangkok once again hosted the Swedish Midsummer celebration on Saturday 15 June 2013. Despite it being the rainy season in Bangkok, a large number of Swedes gathered at the hotel for a fun celebration. This year, rather than being held at the hotel’s poolside, the event was held at Flavours on the first floor of the hotel to keep the guests cool in the air-conditioned venue as well as avoid the risk of rain. Both Senor Pico and Red Pepper restaurants were also open for the event, offering spacious yet cozy areas for lunch and also room for children to play.

Guests enjoyed the Swedish midsummer buffet featuring Swedish Herring, Swedish Kalles Kaviars, Janssons Temptation, Peter’s meatballs, Prince sausage, and various desserts such as Swedish summer cake with berries, Princess cake and Raspberry crème brulee. A few different types of Snaps, wine, beers, and other drinks were also available.

The midsummer spirit was high as many Swedes sang Swedish songs together. After the last song, all stood up and toasted with snaps. The guests then bought raffle tickets for a lucky draw session which took place shortly afterwards. Agneta Bekassy informed the guests that the money raised would go to charity. TSCC’s Executive Director Peter Bjork then announced the lucky raffle numbers, among the cheering crowds, and gave away many prizes to lucky winners. Sponsors of the prizes were Rembrandt Hotel Bangkok, Black Mountain Golf Club Hua Hin, Samitivej Srinakarin Hospital, Oriflame, The St. Regis Bangkok, and The Landmark Bangkok.

Peter thanked Rembrandt’s General Manager Eric Hallin for his support and wonderful arrangements.

Overall, it was a delightful event for families and friends to celebrate the Swedish Midsummer together.

Grundfos celebrating 20 years in Thailand

O

n 29 May 2013, the Danish pump manufacturer Grundfos celebrated its 20th anniversary in Thailand. On that occasion, the ambassador was invited to give a speech.

400 people attended the event that was characterized by a number of speeches, shows and a ceremony, focusing on the theme innovation.

Danish ambassador to Thailand Mikael H. Winther stressed the importance for Denmark to have successful companies in Thailand like Grundfos, who strongly represents Danish values as well as quality products and high ethical business standards.

Chairman Niels Due Jensen recently told the Bangkok Post that the quality of skilled labour makes Thailand an attractive market for expansion.

Grundfos is interested in investing more in Thailand, most probably in the electronic or electrical appliance lines. The company employs over 18,000 people globally with annual turnover of US$4 billion.

10 ScandAsia.Thailand • July 2013

Danish ambassador H. E. Mikael H. Winther Left to right: giving a speech Ambassador H. E. Mikael Hemniti Winther, Minna Due Jensen (spouse of Grundfos Group’s Chairman of the Board), Niels Due Jensen (Grundfos Group’s Chairman of the Board), Pornthip Viphatanaporn (Managing Director of Grundfos Thailand) and Okay Barutcu (Area Managing Director ASEAN)

News Brief

Norwegian establishes base in Bangkok

L Management at Admiral’s Pub and Restaurant calls it quits

By Anders Holm Nielsen

T

he Admiral’s Pub and Restaurant at the Hotel Mermaid in Sukhumvit soi 29 saw a change in management as of June 15, as Danish Bent Laasholdt and his wife Na handed over the reins to the Hotel Mermaid.

The cozy pub that offers a Scandinavian atmosphere has been managed by Bent and Na for the past year and a half, but the couple has now decided to call it quits with another year and a half to go on the contract. From June 15 the Hotel Mermaid will operate all food and beverage outlets on its own.

Managing Director at the Hotel Mermaid, Jorgen Lundbaek, assures that guests will see no difference when Bent and Na leaves the Admiral.

“Asides from the management nothing will be changed at all and guests will see no difference. We will still have the Scandinavian style and the chefs are the same,” he explained to ScandAsia.

However, not everything will be the same. The name “Admiral’s” will move along with Bent and Na, though they are not sure what the next move will be. Na and her team still operate the Cafe Odin at Bangsaray Nordic Resort during the high season and also still offer outside catering for private Functions and Parties.

When asked about the decision to abandon ship, Bent explains that the couple and the Hotel Mermaid had different views on the management.

“There were some differences in how we believed that things should run. We are used to owning our own business and we did not feel as though we were going in the same direction as the Hotel Mermaid.”

He emphasizes that there is absolutely no bad blood between himself and the Hotel Mermaid.

Price war on Norway-Thailand flights

12 ScandAsia.Thailand • July 2013

T

ow-cost airline, Norwegian says it will establish a base in Bangkok to support its long-haul services between the Thai capital and Oslo after it introduces the new service in the beginning of June.

The airline already serves New York from Scandinavia using an Airbus A340 and will take delivery of eight Boeing Dreamliners that will become the backbone of its long-haul fleet. Ahead of Norwegian’s first flights to Asia, the low-cost airline confirmed it will use Bangkok as a base to develop traffic to Europe and feed services to New York. “We are convinced that the major tourist flows will go from Asia to Europe in the coming years and are therefore positioning ourselves with a base in Bangkok that will operate routes to Europe and the US,” the airline communications manager, Lasse Sandaker-Nielsen, told TTR Weekly in an email communication.

To build its brand and attract bookings the airline says it will use mainly online promotional channels and its own online reservations website to capture bookings. What the airline may have overlooked is the dominance of travel agency sales in the Bangkok airline market. At least 70% of all ticket sales are still booked through traditional travel agencies and this trend is not likely to diminish in the near future, reports TTR Weekly.

Danish Ambassador visits General Prem

O

n 28 May 2013, Danish Ambassador Mikael Hemniti Winther paid a courtesy visit to the President of the Privy Council of Thailand and former Prime Minister General Prem Tinsulanonda. They exchanged information about the relations between Thailand and Denmark, including the Royal Families and about the general political situation in Thailand.

hai Airways has decided to use a larger airplane on flights between Bangkok and Oslo.

“This means that we are about to see a tough price war between Norway and Thailand,” said the head of Restplass.no, Norway’s largest online travel agency.

From the winter season, which starts at the end of October, Thai Airways will put the Boeing 747 to use.

Boeing 747-400 has the capacity of 375 passengers. Norwegian’s Boeing 787 Dreamliner has the capacity of 291 passengers. This means a higher capacity for the popular winter destination. It can also lead to a price war on these flights. ”With a considerable increase in capacity to Thailand in the winter season, we are convinced that prices will drop and prices might be at an all-time low,” said Eckhoff to Swedish post, Aftenposten. ”The type of plane that will be put to use is an upgraded version with no seats in all classes and economy passengers have access to a personal entertainment screen in the seat in the front,” says Thai Airways’ head of sales in Norway, Elisabeth H. Norum.

Thai Airway’s new planes on the flight to Oslo will have 50 seats in business class, 325 seats in economy, which is a total increase of 83 seats compared to last year.

CEOs of Norway’s Telenor and DTAC visit Thailand’s PM

T

hailand’s Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra on 5 June 2013 welcomed Mr. Jon Fredrik Baksaas, President and CEO of Telenor Group, Norway and Mr. Jon Eddy Abdullah, CEO of DTAC, at Violet room, Thai Khu Fah building, Government House.

Mr. Abdullah stated that DTAC aims to develop communication technology in Thailand. Issues regarding 3G/4G, free wifi network, and application developments in Thailand were discussed. The PM stressed that strong communication network not only helps improve communications but also broadens learning systems and enhances well-being of the people.

It’s not only 400 years of beautiful canals IT’S AMSTERDAM klm.co.th/amsterdam2013

July 2013 • ScandAsia.Thailand 13

News Brief

SAS to resume Copenhagen-Bangkok route

T New TV- series about injured Swedes in Thailand

T

he Swedish series “SOS Thailand” aired during two weeks on Swedish TV3, starting on 28 May 2013. The show revolves around the people who are involved in helping Swedish tourists, who are somehow injured in Thailand. The show follows Maj and Jan from ERV travel insurance who help travelers at the company’s Euro-Center in Bangkok and flight nurse Erik who helps transport tourists to sick or injured to travel on their own.

Every year, 400,000 Swedes travel to Thailand. Leaving Sweden for sun, bathing and relaxing, the expectations are high, but for many, the dream vacation ends before time because of accidents or disease. SOS Thailand follows the Swedes that work in bringing injured Scandinavians back home.

2012 was a tough year for Swedes in Thailand. 105 died, which is the highest number ever in one year and almost double from the 55 deaths in 2007.

The increase in deaths among Swedes in Thailand seems to be continuing. During the first three months 28 Swedish nationals died. Like in the past years, accidents, natural deaths and suicides are among the most common causes. On average five Swedes commit suicide every year in Thailand.

he carrier still believes that it is worth to fly winter pale, sun-starved Scandinavians to Thailand.

After SAS in the spring temporarily chose to stop flights between Copenhagen and the Thai capital, Bangkok, it was predicted that it was the end of the route. However, now SAS announces that the route will be back in business in November.

The Scandinavian airline announced in autumn 2012 that the route would close in early April, and that passengers who had booked tickets would be offered seats from competing companies. The reason for the closure was that SAS had opened other long routes that it would rather spend its aircraft on. In other words, there was more money in other destinations.

Despite the fact that SAS at the time said it was counting on a seasonal reopening of the route between the two capitals, which has existed since 1949, it was speculated that this would not happen. But now SAS believes to have the capacity.

The airline said on June 13 that the Copenhagen-Bangkok flight will be operating three weekly flights from November 20 throughout the winter season.

Between December 10 and February 10- in high season – there will even be four weekly flights.

The Bangkok route is not the only new one SAS has presented on June 13.

The Scandinavian airline now plans to open 52 new routes in 2013.

Danish Pandora jewelry considering new factory outside Thailand

G

rowth can lead to new Pandora factory outside Thailand’s borders.

Fears of political unrest and natural disasters are taken into consideration.

Sales of Pandora jewelry is increasing in several key markets. It provides bustle and consideration of new extensions at the factory in Thailand where all of Pandora jewelry is produced today. But it is far from certain that Pandora will be 100 percent dependent on its production in Thailand.

“It can be risky to put all your eggs in one basket. It makes sense to spread the risk,” says Thomas Nyborg, CEO of Pandora Productions.

Both airports in Bangkok had to close for a period in 2008 during violent political riots. In 2010 demonstrations and street fights broke out only 25-30 kilometers from Pandora’s factory and curfew was issued, said Nyborg.

Recently, 61 provinces and 8.5 million people in Thailand were hit by the worst floods the country has experienced in 70 years and Pandora got tested its emergency response without using it.

With so much drama in Thailand, the Pandora Board in Denmark may well be a bit nervous about being totally dependent on production in Thailand.

14 ScandAsia.Thailand • July 2013

Children of the Forest from bamboo classrooms to a brighter future

For many years, Karen and Mon people have looked to Thailand for a shot at a better life, only to find themselves and their kids facing hardship, cut off from the privileges of the Thai system.

In Sangklaburi, near the Myanmar border, a dedicated project is aiming to change this.

By Anders Holm Nielsen

Children of the Forest is a registered Thai foundation providing protection, education and health care for abandoned, abused and orphaned Karen and Mon children living in the Thai / Burmese border zone, Sangkhlaburi,Thailand.

The project relies heavily on contributions Thai Dansk Venskabsforening, Nederman S.E.A Co. Ltd, Danish Women’s Network and Henrik Friis Family & Friends donated a brand new tractor to help expand the farming program and improve food security. Recently, the Danish Women’s Network helped put in a new floor at the Child Protection Program for girls.

I

n small bamboo classrooms at Children of the Forest, kids that otherwise would have been left uneducated are studying their way into Thai society and a brighter future.

“For many it is a life drifting from plantation to plantation. The whole concept is to educate as many children as possible to change this for the better. There are no fees for transportation, uniforms or lunch.

They just turn up and we give them an education.”

The explanation comes from Tom Hopson whose son Daniel started Children of the Forest eight years ago. After working at an or-

16 ScandAsia.Thailand • July 2013

phanage in the area, Daniel saw the need for an extensive project helping the Mon and Karen children. What started as a small school program has now developed into a major project with 270 kids at the school and 120 at the childrens home.

From Manchester to Sangklaburi Two years ago, founder Daniel Hopson was joined by his parents Tom and Lynda. When they both retired they sold the house in Manchester, where Tom was a kitchen designer and Lynda a counselor and moved to Sangklaburi to work at

Children of the Forest.

Back in Manchester, Tom and Lynda had for many years worked with the project as trustees, helping to raise money for the many kids.

Today, Tom works at the at the school and helps out with fundraising, Lynda works with the medical program and Daniel manages the children’s home and anything that has to do with the children’s welfare, while he is also the football coach.

Unforced learning Most of the kids at Children of the Forest have never been to school before and many does not speak Thai

and for that reason all the teachers are either Karen or Mon. “In our preparation classes we teach them Thai to a level, where they can learn the Thai curriculum and join our 1st grade. When they graduate from our 3rd grade they go to the local government school.”

The kindergartens operate on the Steiner Waldorf principle of unforced learning. Tom explains that a big part of the first year is to make the kids feel safe and happy, making sure that they actually enjoy coming to school.

For that reason the same teacher takes the children from 1st grade all the way through 3rd grade, teaching them everything from Thai and math to history.

Maintaining the Mon and Karen cultures Children of the Forest was given status as an official school four years ago, which means that children leave with education certificates that allow them to enter the Thai educational system, which is a vital step so secure their future.

Many children were born in Thailand but because their parents don’t have papers or status, neither do their children. They can’t receive subsidized medical care or subsidized education and don’t enjoy any of the Thai privileges.”

With one foot in the system, the school starts registering the kids from day one. It is a long way for them to get Thai ID cards which takes years, but by entering Children of the For-

est at least they have some rights and some status.

Though the goal is to educate the children so they can integrate and enjoy the same rights as the Thais, the project makes an effort to also educate the kids about their Mon and Karen heritage.

“We want the kids to be part of the Thai community but we also make sure that they maintain their cultural identity. We have various events with music, plays and stories where we teach them about their Karen and Mon cultures. We encourage them to be proud of that and celebrate their heritage.”

Skipping school for work Many migrant parents have the mind-set of day to day survival.

Education as an investment in their children’s future is hard for them to contemplate as they themselves have no sense of a future.

“We try to educate the parents of how important the school is, but these families don’t have the forward thinking of sending their kids to school for years and years.”

Most of the families support themselves through agriculture and it is not unusual that the children are pulled out of school in harvest seasons to help out. When the child does not attend school, the teacher goes to see the family and makes a report.

“What we have to understand is that they are looking ahead for maybe a week or a month to put food on the table. It is important to

understand that and put yourself in their shoes so you can explain to them just how important it is to send the kids to school.”

When the teacher sees that a child is missing school to work with the parents, Children of the Forest will step in and support the family by offering rice for a period of time so there is room for sending the child back to school.

“It’s a good way of supporting that family and understanding the problem and not be judgmental. For them it is just to put more food on the table..”

As a consequence of the persistency and follow up visits, the school has what they themselves call a very low dropout rate, despite the challenges.

From bamboo huts to uni In the eight years that the project has existed, the school has been successful in giving the kids a chance and some have even moved from the bamboo classrooms to college and university.

“We have one girl at the moment who is studying at the Kanchanaburi University to become a teacher. The kids can go all the way depending on the circumstances. If we can get them educated up to 6th grade or maybe get them into the local high school program it is a big bonus.”

Though some go all the way, Children of the Forest has no ambition of fostering a generation of Karen or Mon doctors and lawyers. The

program is in fact mainly geared towards creating job opportunities for the children to sustain themselves in the future. Though some go on to college and university, the program is also very hands on so the children learn about agriculture, bike repair, construction and so on.

“We work with local businesses that we trust to help the children who are not academically gifted. They can learn about computers and maybe find a job in hotels, and we have motorbike repair programs. A lot of the older boys will help out with some construction work which equips them with the skills to get a job.”

Here is home In order to secure job opportunities, the continued support after the children leave the school is important. They are not left on their own or sent away once they graduate or come of age. The financial and moral support continues when the children go to the local school.

“We still support them when they leave because they still have to buy uniforms and they remain part of the program,” Tom explains, emphasizing that especially for the kids at the children’s home, Children of the Forest is not just a temporary station, but a home.

“When you grow up you move out and start at the university but you always go back to your parents.

It’s the same here. They leave to work or study somewhere else but they always come back. This is their home.”

July 2013 • ScandAsia.Thailand 17

18 ScandAsia.Thailand • July 2013

Asia House constant change is here to stay

By Flemming Winther Nielsen Photos by Jens Mortensen

W

hen you reach the house on India Quay 16; in the old Freeport of Copenhagen, you will immediately notice the impressing front door, high up and symmetrically placed. You walk the 8 granite steps of the staircase; then there is a landing and the massive door, mainly hardwood and brass.

Until 1908 this door gave access to the headquarters of ØK, Det Østasiatiske Kompagni (EAC).

Through here walked the Captains and the clerks, stevedores and stewards. Right inside you find the long reception desk, where all matters were at first dealt with.

The operation room But save your energy, today the door is locked, not practical and no Captains anymore. Instead you walk to the left. Note the magnificent Thai Coat of Arms, bright and light oriental colors. It shows that Carsten Dencker Nielsen, Thai Consul General, is resident here. Turn the corner and enter the newer and more modest door, always open, always welcoming. A few steps up you find the office of the Consul, his domicile since he retired from EAC in 2000. But this man’s energy never stopped there, he has been instrumental in all sorts of developments taking place in an around Asia House.

The office is not very big and not very formal.

There are some old items of the Far East and, in plain frames’, documents from the Danish Queen and from the Thai King, bestowing on Carsten high Danish and Thai orders.

Somehow there is nevertheless an oriental atmosphere in the room - as if Carsten’s ten years of being Managing Director for EAC, Thailand Ltd sends its reflections.

The instruments on hand, the generous possibilities given As mentioned Carsten Dencker Nielsen is Consul General for Thailand and the Thais, so we will leave that work out on this occasion; important work but space is unfortunately limited. Instead, let’s have a look at the two foundations where he puts a lot of time and efforts for the benefit of the public good.

1) ØK’s Almennyttige fond (EAC Foundation) In this foundation, Carsten is the deputy chairman and of course has a ‘word to say’ in all decisions regarding applications and eventually donations.

The Foundation has not been much known in Thailand. That is a pity, I’m sure that many well thought out projects easily would fit in the statutes as described here: “The objects of the

Foundation involve research, humanitarian tasks, environmental protection and education, but also artistic and national purposes may be considered”.

The foundation has, on a regular basis, granted donations since 2007. Let me, randomly mention just three out of the many donations: • Two researchers from Aarhus University: ‘Investigation of biological pest control in Thai mango plantations’.

• Development of CSR tools to be used in Danish companies working in SEAsia.

• Cartoon project: ‘The girl and Shanghai’. Webfilm, Esben Kjaer Ravn.

• Aid program for elephants in Asia, including training of Mahouts.

As can be seen, quite a wide specter of projects, the foundation is generous and the board open minded within the statutes. Applications can be forwarded year round and the secretariat is ready regarding assistance and practical advice, budget formalities etc.

If you consider forwarding a project idea, read first the homepage of (Asia-house.dk). The page will be revised soon, but all basic information needed is there.

2) The Asia House Foundation with Asia Business Forum This second foundation was originally established to assume the responsibility for the administration of the house and premises and therefore not of much public interest. That changed in 2001 – 2002 where cooperation between the house and CBS, Copenhagen Business School, was established. The child was named: ‘Asia Business Forum’. The Lord Chamberlain of the Royal Court in Denmark, Mr. Ove Ullerup is Chairman of the

Asia House Foundation, whereas Carsten Dencker Nielsen chairs The Forum. The main idea is to carry out ‘research-based seminars and networking opportunities on a regular basis for business executives actively engaged in Asia’. Behind ABF you find a sponsor group and a member group consisting of major Danish and Scandinavian companies often such directly engaged in SEAsia.

Since 2001 very many seminars have been held. I would like to mention the latest (spring 2013), not because it is ‘up front’, but because it shows that the forum often has had a knowing hand in bringing up seminars meeting ‘here and now’ changes and new challenges in the world around. Lecturer here was Jeff Leong, partner in Leong, Pom and Wong, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

The title was: ‘Asian perspectives on mergers and acquisitions and foreign direct Investments: Navigating M&A’s and FDI’s in volatile Asian Markets’.

Available from this seminar are more than 40 hand-out sheets. These are, although academic, also absolute practical both regarding M&A’s and regarding instruments for FDI’s. I could imagine that given the new situation in Burma, the Scandinavian business community could benefit highly from this initiative by Asia House, Asia Business Forum.

The SEA companies can search the homepage and undoubtedly find seminars of interest and importance for current decision making and then ask for the background material – why act in blind?

Expansions Realizing that it can also be useful to draw on the experiences from practical professionals working in the middle of real life both Carsten Dencker Nielsen and Erik Ljunggren (leader of the secretariat) are working on a certain expansion for Asia Business Forum. The most recent example of this is the invitation to the well-known Danish journalist, Jan Lund, stationed and working in Singapore to speak at seminar in Asia House in June.

This reporter is known for his capacity to ‘hear the grass grow’ regarding changes in the Far East.

Epilogue Asia House on India Quay is a unique building, but it is also a unique frame for getting together from East and West. The spirit of the house is welcoming. Also because of the devoted stewardship I have seldom seen circumstances more ideal for developing goals of mutual interest between East and West. No wonder all Asian ambassadors – from Pakistan to Japan - serving in Copenhagen find themselves very much at home and all are frequent visitors in Asia House.

July 2013 • ScandAsia.Thailand 19

Joint replacement restores mobility minus the pain Today’s advanced generation of joint replacement surgery is helping millions of patients return to active, pain-free living.

T

hailand’s population is aging as lifespans grow longer. But greater longevity doesn’t necessarily mean that seniors are enjoying a better quality of life. Declining bone and joint health remains a significant threat to senior mobility and a good life quality.

The good news is advances in joint replacement surgery are helping a growing number of patients with joint problems return to active living free from debilitating pain.

Two of Thailand’s leading joint replacement surgeons – Dr. Siripong Ratanachai, Director of Bumrungrad’s Joint Replacement Center, and Dr. Keerati Charoencholvanich, an orthopaedic surgeon at the center - share their insights and experiences here.

factors among urban patients. It’s a degenerative joint disorder caused by wear and tear and the long-term impact on weight-bearing joints from being overweight or obese.

Patients from rural areas typically come with problems affecting their joint ligaments, bursae or tendons, and many also have a co-existing condition such as diabetes, arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or SLE, to name a few.

What’s the connection between these diseases and damage to joints?

Dr. Keerati: Diabetes and other chronic diseases can reduce blood flow to the hips and other joints. This can be made worse by unhealthy habits such as excessive alcohol consumption or the use of herbal remedies containing steroids – something that’s becoming more prevalent in many countries.

Adding to Dr. Siripong’s point on lifestyle habits, sitting on the floor and using squatting-

style toilets are more common among rural Thais. These habits tend to place greater stress on knees by a factor of three to five times.

How do doctors determine whether a joint should be replaced?

Dr. Siripong: Deciding on joint replacement surgery is a collaborative process that should include the doctor, the patient and the patient’s family. The patient may be referred to an orthopaedic surgeon for a thorough evaluation and assessment.

If treatments such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, cortisone injections, and/or physical therapy don’t achieve sufficient improvement, and the patient’s daily activities are impacted by pain and reduced mobility, then the patient is probably a good candidate for joint replacement.

The idea of surgery worries some people. What should they know about joint replacement surgery?

Dr. Keerati: Today’s generation of joint replace-

Is joint replacement surgery common in Thailand?

Dr. Keerati: While the government doesn’t compile national statistics on the procedure, at Bumrungrad alone hundreds of patients have joint replacement surgery every year. Urban and rural people tend to present different joint problems requiring different treatments. People from rural areas have a higher incidence of hip replacement, while those from urban areas have more knee replacements.

What are the main factors that necessitate a joint be replacement?

Dr. Siripong: Osteoarthritis is one of the leading 20 ScandAsia.Thailand • July 2013

Dr. Keerati Charoencholvanich

Dr. Siripong Ratanachai

Marie Pahlke Fausing treating an adult patient at a community station As physiotherapist Trine Larse Rakchai recieving treatment at home by Anja

The doctor still has the leading role in the procedure, while the various technologies take on supporting roles.

Dr. Siripong Ratanachai

ment surgeries is much improved over earlier types of major invasive procedures that required significant tissue loss and longer recovery periods.

Advances in surgical techniques have greatly reduced the risks associated with joint replacement surgery, and Thailand offers the latest technologies and surgical techniques.

Doctors consider total joint replacement only after non-surgical treatments don’t achieve the desired results. These methods include exercise, walking aids, medication, and other treatments.

When the damage to a knee is less extensive, for example, doctors may consider replacing just the damaged parts of the joint, a procedure known as partial joint replacement. This typically involves replacing the inner or outer knee surfaces, depending on the specific nature of the damage.

In cases of severe joint damage, such as when a joint deformity limits joint movement and causes severe pain even while the patient is resting, total joint replacement may be necessary.

Younger patients in their 40s or 50s who show early signs of joint damage may prompt doctors to consider surgical re-alignment of the affected joint as well as partial joint replacement.

The complete replacement of the joint would be considered as a last resort.

Under what circumstances would joint replacement surgery not be recommended despite severe joint damage?

Dr. Siripong: The doctor’s assessment of the patient’s candidacy for joint replacement surgery boils down to whether the patient would likely benefit fully from the procedure while being unlikely to suffer complications. Doctors are unlikely to recommend joint replacement for patients who have muscle weakness or paralysis, and those lacking sufficient muscle control due to traumatic injury, serious infection or a neurodegenerative disease such as multiple sclerosis or myasthenia gravis – even though their joints show significant wear and tear.

The second group includes patients who re-

main pain-free despite significant joint damage and continue to enjoy a good quality of life.

How long do artificial joints typically last?

Dr. Siripong: On average, an artificial joint has a lifespan of 10 to 20 years. This is one reason why joint replacement is most often recommended for people over 60.

Artificial joint lifespans can vary due to one or more factors: the surgeon’s ability to accurately align the new joint device, extensive wear and tear among more active patients after surgery, and the quality of the chosen artificial joint.

Dealing with the three factors in an optimal way translates to a 95 percent chance of the artificial joint lasting beyond 10 years, and an 80 percent chance of lasting more than 20 years.

Since the procedure involves many advanced technologies, has the doctor’s role become less important?

Dr. Siripong: The doctor still has the leading role in the procedure, while the various technologies take on supporting roles. Surgery isn’t a starting point for treating damaged joints; doctors specializing in orthopaedics begin helping patients well before any surgical procedures might be recommended. Doctors must determine the right time for replacement surgery after concluding the procedure will not endanger the patient’s health nor greatly increase the patient’s risk level.

Dr. Keerati: A successful surgery is one that offers a high degree of safety and produces the desired result. Doctors must first make a proper determination that the patient is a good candidate and meets the health guidelines specific to the procedure.

That’s followed by the doctor’s surgical capabilities, especially his or her ability to correctly align the joint while keeping damage to surrounding tissue minimal.

The doctor’s experience and expertise are also tested when choosing the specific artificial device to ensure it delivers the optimal fit.

Robotic joint replacement surgeries Many advanced joint replacement procedures now employ robotic arm technology that delivers even higher levels of precision and accuracy in the alignment and placement of artificial implants. “This is very exciting technology,” says Dr. Siripong. “It allows orthopaedic surgeons to achieve more precise and more accurate joint placement and alignment, which results in even better surgical outcomes.”

Robotic arm systems provide surgeons with pre-surgical plans outlining bone preparation techniques and custom-tailored positioning of implants using a CT scan of the diseased joint.

“During the procedure, the system creates a three-dimensional live-action virtual view of the bone surfaces while correlating the image to the surgical plan,” says Dr. Siripong. “Then, using a small incision, the surgeon engages the robotic arm to begin preparing the damaged joint for replacement with minimal impact to surrounding healthy tissues. The technology enables more precise implant positioning and placement for each individual patient. As a result, patients typically resume walking in the first 24 hours after surgery.”

Dr. Siripong believes that, in the not-too-distant future, joint replacement surgery will evolve thanks to further technological improvements and more experience gained by orthopaedic medical professionals. “Artificial joints can’t compare with the real joints we’re born with,” he explains. “So we should take good care of our health and try to avoid activities that damage joints.

“Joint replacement surgery should be the last option to consider after other treatments are unable to restore a patient’s good quality of life,” Dr. Siripong says. “If you decide to have joint replacement surgery, take steps to help make it right the first time. Do some research, talk to your doctor, ask questions, and be sure to follow your doctor’s advice.”

July 2013 • ScandAsia.Thailand 21

Apple trifle Stay 3 and pay 2

By Anders Holm Nielsen

Ingredients (Serves 4) • 1 cup fresh breadcrumbs • ½ cup white sugar • ½ cup hazelnuts • 1 pound cooking apples • 1 lemon • 3 tablespoons honey • 3 tablespoons caster sugar • 1 egg white

at Skyy Hotel & Residence Bangkok

Preparation

L

ocated on vibrant Sukhumvit Soi 1 in the heart of Bangkok’s central business district, beside Bumrungrad Hospital, SKYY Hotel & Residence Bangkok is five minute walk to Ploenchit and Nana BTS stations, and Sukhumvit MRT station. The location is good for tourists as it’s within walking distance to entertainment and shopping areas.

Facilities include concierge services, 24 hour reception, 24 hour security, room service from 6am – 10pm, Limousine and transportation service, baby-siting service (on request with advance booking), laundry and dry cleaning, and parcel and postal services. Free wifi and Halal food are available. The hotel is also good for business travellers as it offers Meeting and Business Center services.

From now unit 31 August 2013, the hotel offers a special room package where guests who book a room for two consecutive nights will get the third night for free. The rates for the special package are Baht 5,500 net for Superior room and Baht 7,200 net for Executive room.

The rates include free daily breakfast for two, free welcome drinks, free tea/coffee maker in room, 10% discount on food at Cielo restaurant, 10% discount on Laundry service, and a complimentary fruit basket on arrival.

For more information and reservations, contact 02 105 0888 or visit www.skyyhotel.com, www.skyyresidence.com 22 ScandAsia.Thailand • July 2013

• Place breadcrumbs and white sugar in a non-stick pan on low heat.

• Cook gently for about 4 minutes while constantly stirring until it’s dark golden.

• Transfer into a bowl.

• Chop the hazelnuts and toast them.

• Put the hazelnuts into the separate bowl and set aside.

• Peel, core and slice the apples.

• Grate the lemon rind and juice the lemon.

• Mix the apples, honey and lemon juice.

• Transfer the mixture into frying pan and cook for 10 minutes on low heat.

• Break up the apples with a spoon, until they are soft and pulpy.

• Beat the apple mixture into a thick puree with a wooden spoon, and set aside to cool down.

• Stir in castor sugar and egg white until stiff, and fold into the cooled down apple puree.

• Spoon half the apple mixture into four glass bowls.

• Top with the breadcrumb mixture, and repeat the layers.

• Finish with a layer of breadcrumbs and nuts.

• You can add brandy or any type of liqueur into the apple mixture if you wish