ScandAsia Thailand - November 2017

NOV 2017

Senior Living BUSINESS Fredrik Lager with Nordea Private Banking

COMMUNITY Thai-Finnish Chamber of Commerce celebrated 25 years

EDUCATION

LIFESTYLE

Finland at Educa 2017 in Thailand

Agneta’s World: Sauna or Ice Lab?

November 2017

ScandAsia Stories

7 H.E Uffe Wolffhechel

Danish Embasssy Bangkok in diabetes awareness campaign

5 His Royal Highness the Crown Prince of Denmark at Royal Cremation Ceremony 6 The Royal Cremation Ceremony for King Bhumibol Adulyadej 18 Thai-Finnish Chamber of Commerce celebrated 25 years

10 Senior Living

ScandAsia Business 4 Thai-Swedish ‘Business Talks’ The Chamber held networking with Business Sweden and Nordea

20 EMS-partner GPV

8

5

Mr. Fredrik Lager

New General Manager for Nordea Private Banking Singapore

Expands Thailand capacity

20 Kalmar Cranes

6

New contract with BMT Pacific for Bangkok

18

H.E. Satu Suikkari-Kleven Attending the TFCC 25 Years Anniversary Awards Night

2 ScandAsia.Thailand • November 2017

18

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November 2017 • ScandAsia.Thailand 3

Community

Thai-Swedish ‘Business Talks’ featured Business Sweden and Nordea Text and photos: Joakim Persson

O

n 5 October the Thai-Swedish Chamber of Commerce arranged what seemed to be a slightly new networking concept: ‘TSCC Business Talks’. The attending members and other guests of TSCC were in good company as Business Sweden as well as Nordea Private Banking, represented by Vlad Månsson and Fredrik Lager respectively, were the speakers for the evening (held at Landmark Hotel in Bangkok).

The topic was ‘Capture the business opportunities in the new Mekong growth markets’ where Vlad Månsson gave a highly interesting teaser of a forthcoming report from Business Sweden. He pointed out how Business Sweden helps Swedish companies reaching their full international potential and it is in that setting that growth markets in Southeast Asia is of relevance.

He presented the emerging market Myanmar

as characterized by a large population, high growth and rapid development.

Other than that he focused on the Mekong growth market, where Business Sweden’s research show that Sweden is behind Nordic and European peers in exports and FDI. Meanwhile, Swedish industry matches well with the investments going into the Mekong region. And there is in particular high demand for modern and qualitative transport solutions.

The food and beverage sector is another growth market. World leading F&B companies have been present for years and are ramping up investments.

Investment in the Mekong countries however does not come without business challenges that should not be underestimate, Vlad pointed out and mentioned for instance rampant corruption

17 NOV 20

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.

Living Senior ESS BUSIN r

Lage Fredrik dea with NorBanking Private

UNITY COMM Chamber ish Thai-Finnmerce of Com ed 25 year s celebrat

ION EDUCAT Educa at Finland Thailand 2017 in

LE LIFESTY ld:

Wor Agneta’s Ice Lab? Sauna or

Please sign up for your own FREE copy: www.scandasia.com

and the challenge in finding the right local business partner.

Fredrik Lager, Nordea Private Banking Singapore’s new General Manager focused on highlighting the new regulations that are coming fully into effect in 2018 in a number of countries, the so called Common Repor ting Standard, CRS, by the OECD countries – to which most countries have already signed up. The CRS means that all banks will have to report on all account holders to the tax authorities.The information will then be shared with the country where one is a registered tax resident.

After the presentations the evening continued with beneficial discussions over drinks and canapés.

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 Editor-in-Chief : Gregers A.W. Møller gregers@scandmedia.com Managing Editor: Joakim Persson Joakim@scandmedia.com Journalist: Nadja Dam Jensen

Advertising : Finn Balslev finn@scandmedia.com Joakim Persson Joakim@scandmedia.com Graphic Designer : Peerapol Meesuwan Peerapol@scandmedia.com Printing : Inthanon Interprint Co., Ltd.

Daily news and features here: www.scandasia.com

The Royal Cremation Ceremony for King Bhumibol Adulyadej

Denmark represented at the Royal Cremation Ceremony

A

long with VIP guests from 42 countries, His Royal Highness the Crown Prince of Denmark and Denmark’s Ambassador to Thailand Uffe Wolffhechel participated in the Royal Cremation Ceremony of the late king Bhumibol Adulyadej . In addition to the 7,500 officially invited guests, it is estimated that over 250,000 people gathered around the Sanam Luang Grounds where the Cremation Ceremony takes place.

Source: Embassy of Denmark, Bangkok

Crown Prince of Norway and Ambassador in attendance

H

is Royal Highness the Crown Prince of Norway and Ambassador Kjetil Paulsen attended the Royal Cremation Ceremony in Bangkok, writes the Royal Embassy of Norway in Bangkok.

The Royal Cremation of King Rama IX took place at the grand Royal Crematorium, which symbolize the mythical Mount Sumeru and was built for the late King. It is believed in mythology that Heaven sits on top of Mount Sumeru and that the late King will reside there following his Royal Cremation.

Royalty and dignitaries from 40 countries attended the cremation. Before depar ting Sanam Luang Grounds, they laid funeral flowers

at the royal urn. In addition to the official guests, hundreds of thousands of people had gathered around the Sanam Luang grounds to pay their final respects. H.E the late King Bhumibol who passed away at age 88, was considered a rare unifying figure in Thailand’s turbulent history.

Due to his extensive visits to rural areas in Thailand and his efforts to improve the lives of the masses, the late King was widely popular throughout Thailand. Many people had therefore travelled for hours from the countryside to pay their respects to the late king.

Source: Royal Embassy of Norway in Bangkok

How can you make your money work while you enjoy life?

Kim Osborg Nielsen kim.nielsen@nordea.sg www.nordeaprivatebanking.com 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 license. Published by Nordea Bank S.A., R.C.S. Luxembourg No. B 14.157 on behalf of Nordea Bank S.A., Singapore Branch, 138 Market street Capita Green #09-03 Singapore 048946. www.nordeaprivatebanking.com subject to the supervision of the Monetary Authority of Singapore (www.mas.gov.sg).

November 2017 • ScandAsia.Thailand 5

The Royal Cremation Ceremony for King Bhumibol Adulyadej

Sweden held a Ceremony to Honour His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej on the Royal Cremation Day

S

weden held a special ceremony to honour His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej on 26 October 2017 the Royal Cremation Day, as ceremony that was prominently mentioned by the TV host from the broadcast of the ceremony in Bangkok, as well as well publicised in Thai media afterwards (Thai TV Chanell 7 reporting from Stockholm etc.).

His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej had received the Knight of the Swedish Royal Order of the Seraphim. The organizing of this special ceremony is Sweden’s traditional practice after a Knight of the Order passes away, as this royal decoration is the foremost honour in Sweden.

In this ceremony, the Royal Honour Guard of Sweden, in a parade, took His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej’s coat of arms from the Stockholm Palace to be enshrined at a church where bodies of Swedish royals were buried.

Around 2,000 people gathered, including Thailand’s Ambassador Kiattikhun Chartprasert, 6 ScandAsia.Thailand • November 2017

to follow the Order of the Seraphim Ceremony where King Bhumibol’s coat of arms was transferred by military escort from the Stockholm Palace to the Riddarholmen Church, where they were mounted. The Church bells rang for one hour.

Prime Minister General Prayut Chan-o-cha said that the ceremony would indicate the close relations between Thailand and Sweden and between the peoples of the two countries. He said that His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej made Thailand better known and recognized internationally.

In the earlier years of his reign, His Majesty paid state visits to more than 30 countries. He frequently received and enter tained visiting monarchs and heads of state. By meeting with nearly all the leaders of the contemporary world, he kept abreast of current international affairs.

In 2006, the auspicious occasion of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej’s 60th anniversary of his

accession to the throne was celebrated on a grand scale. One of the highlights was the presence of reigning monarchs and royal representatives from 25 of the contemporary world’s 28 monarchies.

They joined the celebrations as a congratulator y tribute to His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej’s dedication, foresight, and wisdom, reflected in Thailand’s economic growth, the wellbeing of its people, and the security of the nation.

The Order of the Seraphim, or the Order of His Majesty The King of Sweden, is the most outstanding distinction in Sweden, and was given to H.M. King Bhumibol Adulyadej in 1950.

Sources: Embassy of Sweden in Bangkok; Foreign Office, The Government Public Relations Department, Office of the Prime Minister Photo credit: Kungahuset.se

News Brief

Danish embassy spearheads diabetes awareness in Thailand

W

ith a special initiative the Danish Embassy, based on Denmark’s strong and mutually beneficial collaboration with Thailand, is putting an epidemic spread of diabetes into focus, in particular with the World Diabetes Day that took place on 5 November, which the embassy co-hosted. A special ‘Women and diabetes’ run took place to show support for the cause and a special talk show was held with four generations of women to learn how to stay healthy and away from diabetes.

In collaboration with Danish pharmaceutical company, Novo Nordisk Pharma (Thailand) Ltd. the Danish initiative aim to create awareness of diabetes, educate the public to know that small changes in lifestyle can have a huge impact on health and reduce the risk of getting diabetes.

Novo Nordisk is the global market leader on diabetes and the largest insulin supplier in Thailand.

The Danish Embassy is co-hosting the “World Diabetes Day Event” in Bangkok on 5 November, and we encourage people to sign up for the run on in order “More than 4 million people in Thailand suffer from diabetes which causes multiple complications.

With more awareness of the importance of a healthy lifestyle by having a healthy diet, regular physical activity and maintain a normal body weight, we can hopefully reduce this number to the benefit of all the people of Thailand. Did

Denmark’s Ambassador in press conference along with Novo Nordisk Pharma you know that 20-30 minutes of daily exercise can more than halve the risk of getting type-2 diabetes?” wrote the embassy.

Source: Embassy of Denmark in Bangkok

November 2017 • ScandAsia.Thailand 7

N Fredrik Lager!

Business

Out to expand with Nordea:

o doubt, Fredrik and his team will be busy going forward. In order to cater to a growing customer base in Asia he expects to be recruiting more private bankers and back office support staff. ”Nordea Private Banking in Singapore is a branch of our international private banking head office in Luxembourg and the strategy we have been tasked to follow is clear : grow the business in Asia! We want to be the private bank of choice for Nordic clients in Asia and the way to get there is to be pro-active and to have a sufficient number of high quality bankers to look after the clients´ best interests. Nordea has identified several strategic markets in Southeast Asia where we will work extra hard to attract new business. In my view, Nordea´s go-tomarket-model is strategically sound, both for us as a bank, and for our clients,” begins the Swedish banker/lawyer.

“Singapore remains our core market, but Thailand, Malaysia, the Philippines, Hong Kong and China are all considered important markets where we want to expand our business coverage.

Whilst focus is on attracting Nordic clients we are able to take on-board clients of other nationalities as well.”

Compliance and CRS

As Nordea Private Banking is setting in motion its Asian expansion, Fredrik Lager was recruited in April as the new General Manager. Wellknown to the Nordic community in Southeast Asia, Mr Lager is upbeat as he talks to ScandAsia about his new career challenge.

Text and photos: Joakim Persson 8 ScandAsia.Thailand • November 2017

“Compliance is becoming an increasingly important aspect of private banking these days.

To ensure that they are not being used as a platform for financial crime, all banks need to collect detailed information about their clients and continuously keep that information up to date. The regulatory authorities have definitely increased the pressure on banks in the last couple of years and KYC (“Know Your Client) documentation must be thoroughly scrutinized and reviewed to ensure that all clients comply with global anti-money laundering and antiterrorist financing rules. Transparency is really the key word in international private banking today and we are all subject to ever changing international standards,” he adds.

One of these new standards is the OECD´s “Common Repor ting Standard” or CRS for short. Under CRS banks all over the world must report account activities to their local regulators, who in turn will share the information with the tax authorities in the client´s countries of tax residence. CRS will be implemented in Singapore and Hong Kong in 2018.

In addition to CRS, the EU is introducing an update to the Markets in Financial Instruments Directive, better known as MiFID II, aimed at giving clients better protection and more transparency when dealing with banks. Nordea Private Banking in Singapore will apply MiFID II for the benefit of its clients in Asia.

“Extending the MiFID II regulation to our clients in Asia will set us apart from most local and international banks in the region. I believe clients will truly appreciate the transparency in terms of fees, as well as the enhanced client investor protection. My hope is that banks and independent financial advisors outside the EU, including those in Asia, will introduce similar rules on pre/post trade transparency and best execution in due course.”

Expanding the wealth partners team

At the Singapore office, the former GM, Kim Osborg Nielsen, is still very much involved in the expansion strategy. Reporting to Fredrik Lager, he heads up the Private Banking team and leads the day-to-day business of serving clients. His current team consists of Swedish and Danish wealth par tners. In addition, the front office team employs an international strategic advisor, focusing on cross-border and related tax issues, as well as an investment counsellor with strong knowledge of the Asian markets.

“To have an investment counsellor in Singapore is a great benefit for our clients. As a complement to our dedicated wealth partners, clients can call him during office hours and discuss what is happening in the markets, get updates on company reports and execute orders. When the markets close in Singapore, clients can continue to call the dedicated Singapore trading number and be passed straight through to the trading execution desk in Luxembourg. In Luxembourg we have traders who are licensed by MAS to trade on Singapore accounts. As a result our clients in Asia have support and trading access to the world markets from opening in Asia to closing in the US,” Fredrik Lager explains.

“We are here to serve clients from all of Nordea´s home markets.We want to hire another senior Swedish banker to look after the Swedish business that we have recently won. Depending on how the business develops we will be looking to attract senior Finnish and Norwegian bankers as well. Like any growing business, we are always on the lookout for competent bankers to join our team,” Fredrik concludes.

Regional expansion

As for regional offices he comments: “China and Hong Kong are rapidly expanding markets.

Depending on the continued development and in order to serve clients in the North Eastern part of Asia even better, we will evaluate the potential for establishing a local branch to Singapore in Hong Kong.”

“One strong reason for having our Asian private banking hub in Singapore is because the corporate banking arm of Nordea is established there as well. Another reason for having chosen

Singapore is the island state´s political stability and strong banking heritage.”

“Hong Kong is an important market for us, mainly due to the large number of wealthy Nordic entrepreneurs living there. They can be active in anything from shipping to textiles to logistics industries.”

Cross-border investments market leader

“There are also hedge fund managers and senior banking executives with a Nordic background who like to keep at least part of their wealth with a Nordic bank. They often have a preference for Nordic investments and appreciate the value a bank like Nordea can offer. Local banks or large Swiss banks are often more expensive when it comes to investing on the Nordic stock markets and they do not have as extensive research on Nordic stocks and shares.”

Nordea claims to be mar ket leader s when it comes to cross-border investments and international wealth planning for Nordic individuals abroad. This private bank’s strong inhouse competence for investment management includes over 300 multilingual employees in the Luxembourg headquarters.

“A great benefit of Nordea internationally is that the private banking machinery is a lot bigger

The Philippines is another strategic market for Nordea, not least because of the level of entrepreneurship among Scandinavians who have settled there in recent years

than our Scandinavian competitors, including very strong investment strategy and in-house fund teams.”

Nordea is the largest bank in the Nordic region and among the ten largest financial groups in Europe in terms of market capitalization with around 11 million customers, 31,500 employees and 600 branch office locations.

Thailand always important

As for other countries in Southeast Asia, Fredrik Lager comments: “Thailand has always been an important market for Nordea. As a Nordic bank, we are keen to suppor t the various business associations in Thailand and we frequently host and sponsor client events. A substantial part of our client portfolio comprises of Scandinavian residents in Thailand.This includes wealthy retirees in Phuket and Pattaya as well as senior managers at Scandinavian companies based in Bangkok and entrepreneurs, our fastest growing segment of clients in Thailand, many of whom are involved in various IT-related businesses.”

Nordea´s aim is to initiate a banking relationship with the entrepreneur as early as possible and offer expertise in terms of corporate structuring and investment solutions. If and when there is an exit or if the business is generating substantial profits, Nordea Private Banking will of course be there to offer its portfolio management services as well.

“You can´t just sit around and wait for wealth to be created and then simply expect the entrepreneur to open an account – it is important to be supportive throughout the whole life-cycle to secure long-term relationships,” Mr Lager elaborates.

“The Philippines is another strategic market for Nordea, not least because of the level of entrepreneurship among Scandinavians who have settled there in recent years. Gaming, IT and customer suppor t service businesses are really taking off and we have seen substantial wealth being created by Nordic entrepreneurs.

Clearly the high level of English speaking proficiency among students and professionals in the Philippines has contributed to the country´s success in attracting international businesses.”

“Asia most interesting business region”

In the Southeast Asian markets as a whole, Fredrik Lager has noticed increasing activity when it comes to mergers and acquisitions between Nordic and local companies.

“We’re seeing that quite a lot of European companies, including companies of a Nordic origin, access the Asian market by acquiring smaller players locally. Buying or merging with a local business is often the key to successfully entering the Asian market, since the business culture in many ways differs from what the business owners in Europe are accustomed to. It’s difficult to come out here and just start something so the M&A segment is developing for sure.”

Looking forward Fredrik Lager is certain that more and more Nordic entrepreneurs and senior executives will establish themselves in Asia. “The markets are developing at a tremendous pace and with an expected middle-class boom in the next 5-10 years, I believe Asia is the most interesting business region globally”, Fredrik concludes.

November 2017 • ScandAsia.Thailand 9

Senior Living

Senior Living in Thailand Living in Thailand as a senior Scandinavian can be a pleasant and worry-free experience if you take good care of your health and plan a bit ahead.

10 ScandAsia.Thailand • November 2017

E

By Gregers Moller very year, more retired citizens from Denmark, Sweden, Norway and Finland move to Thailand to live their senior years here. The wave star ted in the 1990’s and culminated in the 2000’s but even today there are every year hundreds who join the pioneers. If anybody knows the exact number, it should be the immigration bureau of the Royal Thai Police - but they have always keep it to themselves as their private secret.

What we do know is, that the pioneer Nordic retirees must be near or above 90 years of age - if they are still here.

Surprisingly, only one Scandinavian real estate company has been established in Thailand to professionally serve this market, Scandinavian Village which was established in 2003 with support from the Board of Investment. At the time it was predicted, that the need for this kind of serviced housing solutions for the retired Scandinavians would soon outgrow the capacity of Scandinavian Village. A Danish group of architects looked in 2010 into creating a Danish style elderly collective housing solution but the interest faded out.

A valid point made at that time was, that the senior citizens who moved here were the independent kind, the ones who mostly created their own solutions and seldom went for the organized solutions. They were individual travelers - had never bought a packaged group tours in their life.They had saved up prior to their retirement - they didn’t rely solely on the public pension system. At the time when they moved to Thailand, they had found their own way through the myriad of ways that you can buy a house in Thailand that was available and permitted by the authorities at the time they moved here and in their chosen location.

When these kind of pensioners are no longer able to live unassisted, they tend again to find individual solutions to their situation and not look for collective solutions. Some move back to their home country where the elderly care system take them in. It is certainly a poorer life quality, but it is a final solution. The lucky ones have loved ones, who continue to take care of them in their home here in Thailand - carrying them out of bed in the morning, tugging them in at night, changing their diapers when needed.

Housing solutions

Children back in the Nordic countries sometimes contact their embassy to ask for a list of possible old people’s homes. They know that their father or sometimes mother - living in Thailand prefers to stay here and live a dignified old age life under protected and assisted conditions. Each of the embassies have of course a list of such homes that they had heard of which are local in the sense that they are established by Thai people for mostly Thai elderly people. But whether this list is updated or if there are newer facilities established is anyone’s guess.

In this issue you will find one such options portrayed, the Jin Wellbeing County estab,lished

by Thonburi Healthcare Group. If you know of more suitable elderly homes, you are welcome to share your knowledge in the comments box below this article on www.scandasia.com

Medical care

Before we get to the stage, where we need an assisted living solution, we all prefer to stay healthy as long as possible in the homes, we already have established. Here we are far better off in terms of solutions. One of Thailand’s most prominent hospitals, Bumrungrad Hospital has established the New Life Healthy Aging Clinic focused entirely on the needs of the seniors who chose Thailand as their retirement country.

Thailand has become a medical hub for the region and way beyond, attracting also patients for health checkups from many countries in the middle east.

Health doesn’t have to be linked to a hospital and medical treatment.To remain a healthy senior in Thailand, there are many options available.

Exercise indoor and outdoor is facilitated by the wonderful Thai climate. Meditation and mental health training is found at many Thai retreats.

The wonderful Thai kitchen that was among the temptations which motivated many of the seniors to come to Thailand in the first place, is also part of keeping a healthy lifestyle in Thailand.

But regular health checks remain crucial in early detection of defects and conditions that usually comes with getting older - like increased blood pressure, diabetes, cancer, cataract, dementia. And with early detection comes the higher possibility of curing the disease - or slowing down the condition.

Swedish proposal

A few years ago, a proposal was brought up in the Swedish town Nora, where recruiting manpower for the needed services for the elderly was becoming a challenge. A study group on the best future solution to elderly health care needs suggested that instead of impor ting labour, it might be easier and cheaper to export the elderly to e.g. Thailand. In Thailand, wages in the service industry related to elderly care are lower than in Sweden and Thailand is already popular among the elderly Swedes.

The proposal was to offer retired Swedes help in relocating to Thailand and then paying for the ser vices they might require which would then be handled by Thai-personnel.

Unfortunately for the seniors living in Nora, the decision makers - ten or twenty years younger than the retirees who would have enjoyed this - felt uncomfortable with the solution and satisfied their own uneasiness by dropping the proposal instead of carrying out what could have been a win-win solution.

Dignified departure

The predictable end of our lives, that we all try to avoid think too much about, is the subject we have in the past also written about often.

It is a consular affairs business when foreigners die in Thailand and it is one of the situations, that keep the Nordic embassies in Thailand busy throughout the year. A good advice is to stop talking about writing up a will but actually doing it.

Again, your embassies will be happy to guide you to reputable law firms that can assist with that at a reasonable cost - in particular if you consider the messy situation that this will spare your loved ones from.

November 2017 • ScandAsia.Thailand 11

Senior Living

Health problems as we grow older

A

s people age, tissues and organs naturally deteriorate, raising the risk for a range of health issues.

Knowing what to expect, and what steps to take to help prevent or minimize specific threats, will keep you on the path to healthier senior years.

“We divide geriatric health problems into two major groups,” says Dr. Lily Chaisompong, a geriatric medicine specialist at the New Life Healthy Aging Clinic at Bumrungrad International Hospital. “The first group comprises common diseases that may be found at younger ages — such as diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, and kidney diseases — but that can become more serious and complicated with age. The second group comprises age-related geriatric syndromes, which can impair seniors’ self-care ability.”

Here is a look at the most common geriatric conditions:

1. Confusion and amnesia

While aging can bring memory loss and cognitive decline, acute health problems such as infections, heart problems, and brain conditions can trigger mental disorientation and confusion.

Identifying and treating the underlying condition usually restores normal function.

A gradual, insidious change in a senior’s mood, behavior, and/or memor y may signal the onset of dementia. Dementia warning signs include: difficulty learning or remembering new things; repeating words or questions; being 12 ScandAsia.Thailand • November 2017

unable to perform complicated tasks; getting lost or forgetting familiar places; losing interest in socializing; and a change in habits.

Alzheimer’s disease is dementia’s leading cause; other causes include stroke, Parkinson’s disease, hypothyroidism, and vitamin B12 deficiency.

Prevention and care

Talk to a doctor if changes in thinking and memory are impacting the patient’s daily life. Dementia isn’t curable, but its progression may be slowed with physical exercise and brain-stimulating activities, including household chores, socializing with friends and family, reading, playing crossword puzzles and mentally-challenging games.

2. Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis, a disease which progresses with no early symptoms, will eventually cause loss of bone mass and make bones brittle. Patients typically are diagnosed after a serious fall causes bone fractures. High-risk groups include men over age 70 and postmenopausal women.

Prevention and care

• B one mineral density testing (BMD) is recommended for women over 55 and men over 70.

• Get tested for vitamin D deficiency; consider vitamin D supplements to boost low levels.

• Add calcium-rich foods to your diet.

• Stay active with weight bearing exercises, including walking, r unning, and light

weight-lifting.

• A fter an osteoporosis diagnosis, proper treatment helps reduce the risk of future bone fractures.

3. Balance and equilibrium issues and accidental falls

Balance problems that lead to falls have several possible causes: joint degeneration; mu s c u l a r a t r o p hy o r weakness; brain diseases; a blood pressure drop when getting up from a seated or prone position; cardiac arrhythmias; medications that affect blood pressure or cause drowsiness; environments with insufficient light, hazardous furniture, sloping floors; and slippery or wet areas.

Balance problems or accidental falls are especially dangerous for patients with osteoporosis, whose bones fracture much more easily.

Prevention and care

• Avoid medications that cause drowsiness or low blood pressure.

• Do exercises that enhance muscle strength and balance.

• Improve home safety with additional lighting, non-slip flooring, and handrails.

4. Insomnia

Sleep problems are among the most common senior health issues. Aging can lead to difficulty falling asleep, frequent waking, unrestful

sleep, and feeling unrefreshed after sleep. Poor sleep quality’s causes include: aging physiology; depression; stress; anxiety; chronic pain; acid reflux; respiratory problems; snoring; frequent urination; and side effects from medications. People with insomnia are at greater risk of depression, falls, and immune system impairment, which can lead to other health problems.

Prevention and care

• Equip your bedroom to promote better sleep; for example, choose curtains that block incoming light and keep electronics out of the bedroom.

• Sleep in the same place at the same time every night to regulate your body clock.

• Don’t go to sleep too early. The best time to go to sleep is from 21:00 to 22:00, and optimal waking time is from 04:00 to 05:00.

• Drink water first thing in the morning and continue during the day. Avoid caffeine after 14:00, and cut back on liquids after dinner to reduce night time urination.

• Avoid long naps; instead, try a stimulating activity like chatting with friends. Should you choose to nap, do so before 15:00 and keep it short.

• O nly use sleeping pills under a doctor’s super vision, as prolonged use can cause dependence.

5. Incontinence

Urinary or fecal incontinence can be traced to a number of factors: pelvic muscular weakness or atonicity; over active bladder ; brain and ner ve-related continence control problems; cer tain medications; constipation; diabetes; infection; or prostatic enlargement.

Prevention and care

Prevention and care

• Move carefully, particularly when standing up after being in sitting or lying positions.

• Use a cane, crutches, walker, or handrails to assist with balance.

7. Malnutrition and eating disorders

Eating disorder s, and the insufficient intake of food that leads to malnutrition, have a number of possible causes, including: dental problems; problems with swallowing; decreased appetite; weight loss; diseases and/or side effects of medications that suppress appetite; depression; dementia; and a number of chronic diseases.

Malnutrition in seniors exacerbates infections and is a risk factor for lethargy, muscle atrophy, and osteoporosis.

Prevention and care

• Have regular dental check-ups, at least once a year.

• Dine with family and friends to improve appetite and food intake.

• Prepare food in easy-to-eat portions.

• Ask your doctor to review your medications for potential appetite suppressing side effects.

• Consult a doctor or nutritionist for advice on nutritional supplements and healthful eating.

8. Hearing problems

Hearing loss becomes more common as we age. Hearing loss symptoms include becoming unable to perceive high-pitched tones or high-frequency sounds such as a female voice or high-key music; and having difficulty understanding conversations in

noisy venues. Hearing loss affects seniors’ quality of life because it inhibits social interaction and denies simple pleasures like listening to music or watching TV.

Prevention and care

• In case of severe hearing loss — the patient is barely able to perceive sound, especially in both ear s, and becomes unable to communicate with others — hearing aids may offer significant benefits.

• When speaking to someone with impaired hearing, stay at a close distance and speak slowly in low tones, maintain eye contact, and keep your lips visible while speaking.

9. Vision problems

Diseases such as cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration can harm a senior’s vision and quality of life.

Prevention and care

Seniors should have eye exams at least once a year to screen for problems at their earliest stages — when treatments are most effective and damage is more likely to be reversible.

Mental health matters

Physical health is important, but don’t neglect emotional and mental health. “Aging brings many physical issues for seniors to deal with, so it’s easy to neglect mental and emotional health, which are just as important,” Dr. Lily says. “Seniors should strive to maintain an active and curious mind, and try to avoid emotional stressors. Family members, friends, and caregivers play a key role in helping seniors live happily. Treating them with compassion and sincerity is at the heart of effective care.”

• S ee a doctor for proper diagnose and treatment.

• Do exercises to strengthen related muscles — for example, try 50 to 100 pelvic floor muscle clenches each day.

• Urinate when the urge comes; when practical, try extending the time between bathroom visits to train the bladder to hold more urine.

6. Dizziness and vertigo

Seniors are more prone to dizziness and vertigo, which can lead to dangerous falls. Causes include: low blood pressure; side effects from medication (especially painkillers, tranquilizers, or anticonvulsants); anemia; anxiety; or cardiac arrhythmias.

Bumrungrad International is the first Asian Joint Commission International accredited, multi-specialty hospital located in the heart of Bangkok,Thailand. Founded in 1980, it is one of the largest private hospitals in Southeast Asia, with 580 beds and over 39 specialty centers. Bumrungrad International offers state-of-the-art diagnostic, therapeutic and intensive care facilities in a one-stop medical center. www.bumrungrad.com

November 2017 • ScandAsia.Thailand 13

Senior Living

Jin Wellbeing County Fulfilling Happiness The new residential concept in retirement response team. Rest assured that you are able to be treated at home and safeguarded at all times.

Recovery Get active again with the Rehabilitation hospital and hydrotherapy programs available at Jin Wellbeing County.

Long-term care Keep tabs on your recovery process and enjoy a personal approach to ongoing good health from our team of medical specialists at the Aged Care and Nursing home, if more intensive care is required. Our team of doctors and nurses are ready to help you maintain your wellbeing.

“The ultimate safety and security systems” “Recapture your passion”

Jin Wellbeing County is a completely redefined retirement experience— where your dreams can come to life again.

Discover a boundless lifestyle within a community that is well crafted for seniors and life planners who are looking for quality of life in retirement years. Here, age has no limitations, with services and conveniences that allow you to focus on doing what you love. Meet like-minded residents and enjoy activities on our breathtaking landscape or easily shop at the retail mall close by.

Have fun and enjoy life the way it should be done: where your everyday is always filled with delight, comfort and soul.

Jin Wellbeing County is a world-class living experience by Thonburi Healthcare Group, widely renowned for their healthcare services with over 40 years of expertise.

“The ultimate living environment”

You’ll be living right in the lungs of downtown Bangkok— amid expansive parks that make up 50% of the 55.35-acre property. Conveniently located on Phaholyothin Road, Jin Wellbeing County is a short distance to Don Muang Airport and connects to SRT Dark Red Line*. Shopping centers, local markets, universities, government offices and a golf club are also a stone’s throw away. *Future projects according to Government Master Plan

The ultimate senior facility designed with universal design philosophy

An understanding and appreciation for the beauty of life drives the empathetic design choices at Jin Wellbeing County. Created by Thomson Adsett, an award-winning design and 14 ScandAsia.Thailand • November 2017

architect firm for retirement homes, all the design and material choices are centered around your well-being and safety.

Interiors of Jin Wellbeing County follow Universal Design principles to ensure that furniture and other designed elements are simple and easily adaptable to each resident’s preference.

All family members can live harmoniously and equipment for seniors can be conveniently and safely installed in the future.

The architecture is designed with the Passive Ecology at heart, where reduced energy usage is achieved through breezy ventilation and natural lighting. Calming streams run through the entire public areas, which are designed to provide shade and flows of cool breeze that circulate to all buildings. Moreover, there is also a highly-secure water management system for flood protection as previously seen in 2011.

“The ultimate senior healthcare services”

Life can be all about happiness and fun with health woes off your back. At Jin Wellbeing County, healthcare is simplified with our all-around services.

Prevention Our health evaluation provides each resident with a clear picture of their health. With professional consultation and recommendations, residents can better understand and care for their bodies by following tailored dietary plans and wellness activity classes.

Treatment Live with a care-free mindset thanks to the on premise General clinic (OPD) and emergency

Let unforeseen accidents and your medical issues be the least of your worries at Jin Wellbeing County.

Jin Wellbeing County strongly commits to safeguarding the community and its residents.

Our Personal Tracking System and emergency response team is on standby 24/7, as aler t systems are installed in each room and across the community.

Highly secure control systems and keycards protect the premise’s entrances at every gate and lift, where security officers are present at all times.

24/7 CCTV monitoring and smoke detectors are implemented across the community, while fire protection halls are built on every floor*. *No need to go downstairs while seeking and waiting for help, as it offers protection for 3 hours.

“The ultimate society that enriches— through learning and sharing”

Retirement never meant the end of learning. At Jin Wellbeing County, every day is a chance to satisfy your curiosities and to complete all the passion projects you never got around to.

Meet new friends, seek inspiration and light new fires with Jin Wellbeing County’s workshops and classes. Each is designed to uncover your full potential and renew your sense of selfappreciation. Learn a new instrument or tr y a new recipe! Learn how to paint, decorate, and even dance. If you still want to work it, everyone can start earning a stipend by turning your favorite past-time passions into classes for fellow residents.

“The ultimate lifestyle amenities and facilities”

Enjoy and relish in family activities specially designed for seniors and people of all ages.

Experience the joy of shared activities with loved ones and new friends made possible by the wide range of peerless amenities and world-class facilities. Pets are also welcomed!

Indoor facilities managed by Juristic person • Swimming pool for the elderly • Prayer room • Fitness center for the elderly • Game and Activity room • First-aid room • Karaoke and mini-theater • Recreation and Multi-Purpose room Outdoor facilities managed by Premiere Home Health Care Co., Ltd.* • Planting area • Park for pets • Lagoon • Jogging track • Bike lane • Wheelchair lane • Outdoor activity space • Stone path for foot massage • Outdoor Fitness Services for Clubhouse members • Prayer room • Swimming pool • Hydrotherapy • Kid zone • Thai massage room • Fitness center • Games room • Computer and Reading corner • Karaoke and mini-theater • Recreation and Multi-purpose room • Spa, sauna, jacuzzi and steam room Shops and additional services in the community

• Restaurants • Convenient store • Salon and barber • Cleaning service • Laundry service • Event organizing service • Butler service • Meal plan service • Shuttle bus service Enrich your life with our facilities and services all offered by our team of professionals.

Everything is more convenient than ever with additional services such as property management, home moving services, visa application, travel management and legal services. *Owned and managed by Premiere Home Health Care Co., Ltd. (Right of servitude)

“The ultimate investment opportunity”

Jin Wellbeing County offers incredible value as a long-term investment due to its clear financial and life benefits.

This is an investment ideal for future buy-andsell opportunities or as rental businesses, thanks to its prime location near the Dark Red SRT Line and new MEGA Projects in its proximity.

Most importantly, it’s an investment for the priceless joy and well-being of our dearest loved ones.

Jin Wellbeing County is a redefined experience of retirement, one where dreams can come to life again and all worries are left behind. Let yourself and your family live the good life in this enhanced living experience, made possible by tailored ser vices and amenities, stunning architecture and top of the line healthcare systems. This is the

truly world-class living experience you’ve been waiting for.

“9 Reasons to Retire in Thailand” • 1st most cost-effective country Thailand has gained fame as the best place for expats seeking an improved quality of life with minimum expenses.

• The weather Tropical Thailand is blessed with warm weather throughout the year.

• The best food every day and everywhere Thailand has a variety of food from all corners of the world. From affordable street food to fine dining, the menus here are endless.

• The culture The majority of Thai people are very friendly.

They’ll be happy to see you and help you out.

• The best leisure destination in Asia-Pacific There’s a great number of recreation and leisure options for everyone and the living facilities are amazingly affordable.

• An international nightlife scene Enjoy a dynamic nightlife thanks to Thailand’s cosmopolitan and international environment from all lifestyle’s level of your choices.

• Hospitals like hotels Thailand is one of the top rank medical hubs of Asia for those looking for first-class care at affordable prices.

• Departure hub of Asia The unique geographical location of Thailand makes everything accessible and only a short ride away.

• Retirement visa Thailand’s retirement visa has very few basic requirements to support an expat who is willing to retire in Thailand.

November 2017 • ScandAsia.Thailand 15

Agneta’s World

If you have the choice, do you go for a Sauna or

W

e all know that the popular Finnish Sauna is good for both body and mind.

Spending time in the sauna with friends or just sitting by your self is relaxing and also very refreshing.

After a long day when your body aches, the heat does well.

In Finland and Sweden it’s a way of socializing.

Thursday evenings during the winter months, the Swedes usually gather together in the sauna, we call it “bastu”, having a beer afterward and the traditional Thursday dishes; yellow Pea soup followed by pancakes with jam and whipped cream and hot punch beverage. This has been a tradition in Sweden for ages.

The Finns, I assume, have similar traditions, not sure about the Pea soup and pancakes, but they do socialize in the sauna and usually will walk straight out in the cold and if there is snow, they will roll around in it. It is said that it hardens the immune system and you become less receptive for colds and flus. After a long party night, with lots of alcohol, it’s a also healthy way to get rid of an eventual hang over. In Sweden we star ted in 1200AD to build saunas and they became popular places for drinking and chatting, sometimes for wild parties. In the sauna you are naked and in especially Finland, you use birch twigs to hit yourself.

In Scandinavia it is common that hotels and some apartment houses offer a sauna. As we 16 ScandAsia.Thailand • November 2017

Photo: Daniel Herron

Photo: Daniel Herron

Photo: Daniel Herron

a visit to the Ice lab? are not very shy, we mostly have a mixed sauna.

Many private villas are also equipped with a sauna.

Today it has also become popular to install a steam bath. It’s similar to a sauna, but very humid in comparison, almost wet inside. It also says be very healthy, especially for your lungs.

Well, the opposite of a sauna, must be the cryotherapy chamber or the so called, Ice Lab. This is the cool way to recovery. This special ice-cold lab says be the way to keep you young looking and healthy.

Ice Labs are not yet very common in Europe, but I am sure there are health institutes offering cryotherapy. In the US it has become popular and many athletes find it beneficial. It says that it reduces inflammation in joints and muscles; improves metabolic function in skeletal muscle, the thyroid and adrenal function and on hormonal expressions; reduces cellulite; tightens your skin; gives you stronger and fuller hair & nails; increases libido, collagen production, lymph draining and blood circulation among much more. Sounds like the solution for almost everything!

If you have undergone joint and spinal surgery you will benefit from Ice Lab sessions. The cold chamber can also relieve degenerative joint diseases. If you have a sleeping disorder, it also might be worth trying.

Now, something I find very interesting and that makes me curious are treatments in the icy cold temperatures - said to burn about 800 calories in just one session! Wow, might safe

you hours at the gym! It is not recommended to stay more than 3 minutes in the Ice Lab; it’s -110 degrees Celsius. We were in for 2 minutes and we’re starting to feel like ice statues at the National Swedish Day ceremonies. Soon after we felt refreshed and exhilarated.

Where can one find an Ice Lab in Bangkok you might ask? Well, I know for sure, some Ice Bars and nowadays I also happen to know where you will find an Ice lab, the one and only in Thailand today.

Living in Bangkok, you might have heard about APEX Clinics. Apex has clinics at different locations in Bangkok e.g. at Emporium shopping mall, at Thong Loh etc. but the latest Apex is not only a rejuvenate clinic, it’s a whole medical center located near the Ploen Chit BTS station.

Here you can book treatments for your whole body; starting with feet and ending with your scalp. If you need your teeth whitened, no problems or you have to have your wisdoms teeth removed or a whole new gum, you can have it all. Are you considering a way to loose fat, well you can do it with liposuction. At this medical center they do minor surgeries and the operation facilities are non plus ultra – very modern and with the latest equipment.

Of course you can have Face lift or get your injections with Botox. We are now getting closer to the scalp and here I want to explain about another treatment that Apex also is the first clinic to offer Bioscore, Hair & Scalp Treatment

program. This is for you who are having hair loss and thinness. Dr. Alan Ong, a victim of male pattern baldness himself, formulated this special program in Melbourne. No surgery is involved in this program. The treatment includes the use of unique blend medications, vitamins and herbs to revitalize affected follicles and to stimulate regrowth of your hair.

You begin with an examination, blood testing and hormone analysis to determine whether your hormone level is appropriate for the treatment of hair loss. First the doctor will inspect your hair and scalp condition and diagnose from the result.

To increase the strength and stimulate new hair regrowth a Bioscore Led Light Therapy will be used. The hair treatment stimulates the blood circulation in the scalp and does a deep cleansing of your scalp. The laser used will stimulate the hair root cells, boosting existent hair roots to become stronger and healthier. Automated Hair Transplant is a program designed to treat patients with small areas of baldness. If your baldness across a wide area, a hair transplant surgery is to be recommended.

If you are interested to find out more about all the possible treatments at this medical center, first take a look at its webpage www. apexrefoundbeauty.com. Even if you are healthy and happy, it is worth a visit.You never know when you will need one or another adjustment!

November 2017 • ScandAsia.Thailand 17

Business

Thai-Finnish Chamber

of Commerce celebrated 25 years

T

he Thai Finnish Chamber of Commerce (TFCC), on 10 October 2017, celebr ated its 25 year s Anniversary with an Awards Night at Hotel St. Regis, Bangkok.

The 150 guests attending the auspicious night included the Finnish Ambassador and Embassy staff, the largest Finnish companies operating in Thailand, Thai government officials and other TFCC members, partners and their invited guests.

Beginning the procedures for the evening the gathered Finns and Thais honoured the late His Majesty the King of Thailand Bhumibol Adulyadej with a remembrance, with the King’s Song played by the live band for the night, N-Joy. Master of Ceremony (MC) of the evening was no other than Mr Lasse Norres, a legend in Finnish entertainment business. Following his welcome remarks TFCC President Mr Jari Hietala in turn welcomed the guests and also introduced the entire new TFCC Board on stage.

Also in attendance H.E.Ambassador of Finland to Thailand Ms Satu Suikkari-Kleven graced the night with her attendance and welcome speech.

18 ScandAsia.Thailand • November 2017

After the first course had been served Lasse Norres introduced to the guests Zero-to-Hero Foundation (Z2H) and invited its representative khun Ja-Oh to the stage. Ja-Oh held a shor t introduction, combined with a video about the foundation, which helps Thai families in Na Yom village close to Petchabun. The evening’s charity auction supported Z2H. Two strong elements made up the Finnish and Thai motorspor ts stars theme for the Anniversary. First, two young Thai circuit race drivers took part in the Finnish V1600 racing series this year and as the first Thai ever the young man, Nathayos Sirigaya won the whole national series!

His nickname is Miang. His girlfriend, nicknamed Ploy, a much more experienced driver, Tachapan Vijittranon, also did well. The MC shared the history of these two young drivers and how they ended up racing in Finland.

“Never before has a Thai driver won any national motorspor t series before in Europe.

Impressively this was also the first time Miang took part in actual car races, as he had before only been involved in simulator races!” reported Executive Director TFC Mr Karri Kivela, and added:

“As Finland is also very famous for its motorsport stars we intend to work more closely between Thailand and Finland in motorsports in future.”

Handing the Thai drivers an award the Finnish Ambassador commended: “On behalf of the Finnish Embassy I want to award you Khun Miang and Khun Ploy with these small gifts from Finland and congratulate you both for your roles and performances as Thai motorspor ts ambassadors in Finland this year. I give my special congratulations to Khun Miang for winning a European motorspor t series as the first Thai ever!”

Second, having heard about the Zero-toHero Charity Finnish Formula One race driver Kimi Räikkönen had come to Thailand personally, after the race in Malaysia, to hand TFCC his PRO PUMA FERRARI items all signed by him! “There is no need to say how high these products are valued by hard core Ferrari and Kimi fans around the world. You don’t get Kimi’s racing gloves from nowhere,” stated TFCC. Before the evening’s auction, and following on the main course being served, it was time for the TFCC 25 Years Awards, where Mr Kai Tuorila

TFCC new President Jari Hietala’s opening speech

MC of the evening Mr. Lasse Norres, legend in Finnish entertainment business

From left: Finnish Ambassador Satu Suikkari-Kleven, Khun Miang, Khun Ploy and Jari Hietala – the young drivers were awarded for their roles as Thai motorsports ambassadors to Finland

Ambassador of Finland’s opening remarks

Mr. Kai Tuorila presented the history of TFCC with interesting slide show

Khun Ja-oh from Zero-to-Hero Foundation receiving the Auction proceeds from Jari Hietala ja Karri Kivela

Mr. Kai Tuorila awarded for his lifelong contribution to TFCC, flowers from Khun Joop (last day in TFCC office as Office Manager – she started a new job in an international company the next day)

Mr. Anthony Tan, Managing Director of Kone Thailand presents the Most Finnish Employee Award to Mr. Tim Olsbo from Madison-Mayflower

Khun Fangy from Finnair receives the Loyalty Award from the presenter Mr. Lucien Heijstee from Thaivivat

guided the guests through the milestones of TFCC’s past 25 years.

Selected companies and individuals were awarded for their contributions for TFCC during our first 25 years. The following were awarded with Loyalty Awards (companies who have been TFCC member since 1992): Finnair,Wiik&Höglund and C.L. International.

Countr y Manager of Finnair Ms Nantiya Wongrojaree as well as CEO of Wiik & Hoeglund, Mr Wiboon Sangwithayanon received the Loyalty Awards from the event’s Diamond sponsor Mr Lucien Heijstee, Executive Vice President of Thaivivat Insurance PCL. Mr Char tchai Lertsachanat, MD of C.L. International was unable to attend the anniversary event and the award would be presented to him later.

The Finnish Employment Award went to the company with the most Finnish employees in Thailand right now, Madison-Mayflower. MD Mr Tim Olsbom received the awards from the event’s Diamond Sponsor Kone Thailand, represented by MD Mr Anthony Tan. The TFCC Partnership award was given to the company with the most active partnership

with TFCC, Thaivivat Insurance PCL. Executive Vice President Mr Lucien Heijstee received this award from the Diamond sponsor of this event Mr. Jukka Katajaharju, Managing Director of Codemate.

Last by not least the TFCC lifetime award, which was given to the per son who has contributed to the wellbeing of TFCC throughout its history: Mr Kai Tuorila! Jari Hietala presented the award.

Matched with the dessert the auction for Zero-to-Hero Foundation commenced with fabulous prizes up for grabs. The Executive Director for TFCC, Karri Kivela, explained to the guests the idea of the auction again, followed by the start of the bidding for the items auctioned on the stage. Other items not auctioned on the stage were valued at the prices of bids already given.

Two ‘First Aid’ courses for 12 people already auctioned for pre-determined companies/ persons were presented on stage to the highest bidders by MD Vladimir Alidis from Euro-Center (donor).

For the other action items, GM of Finnair Thailand Ms. Nantiya Wongrojaree presented

the Finnair return ticket to Europe to the highest bidder.

For the Mikko Ilonen (best Finnish golfer ever) golf bag Karri invited the Managing Director Mr Anthony Tan of Kone Thailand to presented the golf bag. Mikko plays mainly on the European Tour where he has won five events. Mikko has been sponsored a long time by Kone and Mikko’s bag that he used in training for the Olympics was donated to this auction.

Furthermore, Mika Kallio, a Finnish Grand Prix motorcycle racer, donated his 2017 racing gloves to Zero-to-Hero Charity auction.

And, representing another sport Finland is famous for, ice-hockey player Teemu Selanne donated his Finnish National Team jersey with this signature. Selanne is the highest scoring Finn in NHL history and one of the highest overall.

And then there was the gift from the Finnish Formula One living legend, Kimi Räikkönen, also contributing to the auction.

The charity auction made 296,000 bath for Z2H (www.z2h.fi)

November 2017 • ScandAsia.Thailand 19

Business

Danish GPV increases capacity in Thailand

D

anish EMS-par tner (Electronics manufacturing services) GPV announced in late September that they would invest in capacity extensions in both Denmark and Thailand.

“Things are happening very quickly right now, and therefore we have decided to invest again in further capacity extensions only a good six months after the latest investment. We see the increased order intake as a positive challenge, and I can say that we have both the will and the capability to keep up with the rising demand and make the necessary investments to enhance capacity,” CEO Bo Lybæk explained.

During the first half of 2017, GPV lifted

revenue by 28 percent to DKK 547 million compared with the first half of 2016. The order intake from existing and new customers has been a positive surprise.

Most recently, in December 2016, GPV installed two new complete SMT production lines, and now the company will carry out yet another extension with four additional SMT lines.

The extension is to be made with three new lines at GPV’s electronics plants in Bangkok in Thailand, where the staff will be increased from about 900 employees to more than 1,000 employees, and with a new line for prototypes in the production in Aars, where the staff has been increased by 60 employees to over 200 employees. GPV’s new

plant in Guadalajara in Mexico now counts about 80 employees. Five of the six new SMT lines have been based on the latest Industry 4.0 technology, where all elements in the lines “talk” and are selfregulatory.

“Investments are amounting to more than DKK 110 million and will contribute to ensure that we can deliver the products that the customers are increasingly demanding. Fur thermore, the new lines will contribute positively to making sure that we are able to meet both present and future quality requirements,” Bo Lybæk continued.

In addition to the investments in electronics, GPV has particularly invested in new fiber laser technology and 5-axis CNC machines with robots at the plants in both Tarm and Bangkok. Besides capacity, these investments will provide new qualifications to support new business areas: “It is vital that we are currently investing and renewing the machinery pool so that we can continue to be amongst the very best EMSs. Furthermore, automation is a must if we are to continue to have competitive production in Denmark among other places,” Bo Lybæk concluded.

GPV is an EMS-par tner specialized within high-mix/low-medium volume EMS.

Kalmar Cranes contract in Thailand

O

n 4 October Kalmar, part of Cargotec, signed a contract with BMT Pacific Limited for an order of four Kalmar SmartPower Rubber-Tyred Gantry (RTG) Cranes.

The new Kalmar machines will serve BMT Pacific’s solely owned river terminal in Chao Phraya River, located at the most impor tant waterway in Central Thailand. The order will boost the inland waterways capability of BMT Pacific. The delivery is scheduled for third quarter of 2018.

BMT Pacific offers an integrated terminal and logistics services in Thailand. Kalmar first established its footprint in Thailand in the 1980’s, and during the past two decades has provided outstanding local service and strategic support to the customers in partnership with the local Kalmar dealer SCP Mechanical.

“The deal is another example of the seamless cooperation between BMT Pacific and Kalmar, which is fur ther accelerating our competitiveness in the industr y. Kalmar has supported our development with exceptional services throughout the years, and that gives us complete confidence to focus on our business growth,” says Rangsant Tonchanachai, General Manager, BMT Pacific.

“This order confir ms BMT Pacific’s commitment to further enhance our long term and mutually beneficial cooperation. We’re happy to continue supporting them in their path towards sustainable growth,” says Teo Yew Boon, Vice President of Kalmar South and Southeast Asia.

The Kalmar SmartPower RTG crane offers an environmentally sustainable solution to customers through its fuel-saving capability and 20 ScandAsia.Thailand • November 2017

fully electric design.The Kalmar SmartPower RTG uses up to 10 litres less fuel per hour than most of the diesel RTGs on the market, thanks to its significantly smaller diesel engine and intelligent power management system. The refined design requires fewer components and results in higher efficiency with less failure, less downtime, low dead weight and less maintenance.

The cranes will be 6+1 rows wide, 1-over5 high, and equipped with 8 wheels. They will feature variable speed diesel engines as well as Bromma’s light-weight YSX40E all-electric crane spreaders. The lifting capacity under the spreader will be 40 tons.

Kalmar offers the widest range of cargo

handling solutions and services to ports, terminals, distribution centres and to heavy industry. Kalmar is the industry forerunner in terminal automation and in energy efficient container handling, with one in four container movements around the globe being handled by a Kalmar solution.

Kalmar is part of Cargotec. Cargotec’s sales in 2016 totalled approximately EUR 3.5 billion and employs over 11,000 people. Cargotec is a leading provider of cargo and load handling solutions with the goal of becoming the leader in intelligent cargo handling. Cargotec’s business areas Kalmar, Hiab and MacGregor offer products and services that ensure our customers a continuous, reliable and sustainable performance.

News Brief

Finland at Educa 2017 Thailand

F

inland once again attended Educa 2017 in Bangkok Thailand, with EduCluster Finland exhibiting and Finland hosting a Special Seminar on the topic: ‘Change is possible’ – Through Finnish Innovations in Pedagogy.

Topics within the seminar, held on 17 October, were: ‘Finnish Teacher Education and Training in the ThaiContext’ with Lead Expert Tiina Malste from Educluster and a panel discussion on how Thai educational institutes have applied Finnish model in their institutes ‘Innovation in Education and Pedagogical Leadership’ by University of Helsinki Director, Head of Transnational Operations Dr. Jan-Markus Holm and Head of Transnational Education Dr. Kirsi Kettula, University of Helsinki Centre for Continuing Education HY+ ‘How to use digital tools as par t of kindergar ten learning methdologies’ by Toby Murray from Fun Academy Finnish-Thai Cultural Differences in Education

and Adaptation’ with Independent Scholar, Kunthida Rungruenkiat EduCluster Finland is an expert organisation creating educational excellence. The Finnish education system is renowned for its quality, efficiency, and equality. EduCluster Finland crafts this know-how into tailored solutions, designed and implemented in collaboration with partners and Finnish exper ts to enable competence building.

ECF operates in the fields of education system reform, quality assessment and performance development, professional development and teacher training, as well as suppor ting employability by vocational and higher education.

They also provide short-term insights into the Finnish education system.

The approach builds on careful analysis and understanding of client needs to provide tailormade solutions.These range from short- and longterm professional development programmes to suppor t for education systems development,

as well as vocational qualifications and Master’s degree programmes in education.

Success stories from numerous par tners showcase sustainable outcomes created in cooperation with ECF, for example: • creating and implementing a Finnish Entrepreneurship Training Programme for the Shanghai Commercial and Accounting School (China) • fostering a long-term partnership in teacher training and educational leadership with the Shanghai Municipal Education Commission (China) • conducting a three-phase teacher s’ professional development programme focused on phenomenon-based teaching and learning with Kasetsart University in Bangkok (Thailand) Sources: Educa, EduCluster Finland, Embassy of Finland in Bangkok

ILO-Sweden decent work garment sector Asian supply chains meeting

T

he ILO and the Embassy of Sweden in Bangkok on 10-11 October 2017 convened a meeting to support the development of a possible future regional programme to promote decent work, environmental sustainability and gender equality in garment supply chains in Asia.

The consultation meeting included ILO constituents (representatives of governments, employer s’ or ganizations and wor ker s’ organizations) from 10 leading garment producing countries in Asia and key stakeholders from the sector. This event was part of a scoping exercise, under taken by the ILO and the Embassy of Sweden in Bangkok, to inform the development of a possible future regional programme to promote decent work, environmental sustainability and gender equality in garment supply chains in Asia.

Among the objectives was to identify, map and analyse common challenges and oppor tunities to improve the delivery of the Decent Work agenda, which amongst others include industrial relations, in the garment sector supply chains in Asia.

Designed to be highly par ticipator y, the

event provided an opportunity for the over 110 participants to exchange views and information on main challenges to achieving decent work in the garment sector supply chains across Asia with a particular focus on industrial relations, gender equality and environmental sustainability.

Discussions in the meeting took into account the outcomes of the ILO Governing Body discussion on global supply chains, as well as findings from studies and consultations conducted in the region in preparation to the meeting.

H.E. Ambassador of Sweden to Thailand Staffan Herrström gave an introductory speech on 11 October. “A crucially important issue in so many ways,” the Ambassador wrote on his Facebook page.

The meeting informed possible future actions including the possibility of a regional project to address these gaps.The outcomes will be used to support the process of developing a regional project for submission to the Embassy of Sweden in Bangkok.

Sources: ILO, Ambassador Staffan Herrström November 2017 • ScandAsia.Thailand 21

มุมภาษาไทย l mum pha:să: thai l Thai Language Corner

EmoTHAIcons :-)

By Klavs Johansen (thai@snakthai.dk)

(>_<)

ผิดหวัง / phít wăng / ~ to be disappointed, or โกรธ / krò:t / ~ to be angry,

O

ur topic of this month is of course emoticons, the little smiley and its variations, which are used to add feelings to plain text.The emoticons are originally made from standard keyboard characters, though, today, they are mostly available as ready-made little pictures on phones and social media. We shall stick to the characters here, our purpose, of course, is to learn some useful Thai from the meanings of some of the more common emoticons.

The formal Thai word for this popular addition to twenty-first century communication is สัญรูป อารมณ์ / sănyárû:p a:rom / ~ emoticons, where สัญรูป / sănyárû:p / ~ icon, and อารมณ์ / a:rom / ~ mood.

The mother, or father, if you wish, of them all is :-), known in Thai as ตัวยิ้ม / tua yím / ~ smiley, or หน้​้ายิ้ม / nâ: yím /, literally smiling face, or อมยิ้ม / om yím / ~ (said/written) with a smile, or just ยิ้ม / yím / ~ smile.

The short version :) is frequently used by Thais, in particular females, no doubt as it is cuter and the nose being a less striking feature of the face than is the case for most Westerners, some of whom should rather use :^) perhaps.

22 ScandAsia.Thailand • November 2017

Here are a few of the variations of the smiley: :-D ยิ้มกว่าง / yím kwâ:ng / ~ broad smile, to smile broadly, ;-) ขยิบตา / khàyìp ta: / ~ winky, to wink, :-P แลบลิ้น / lâe:p lín / ~ tongue sticking out, teasing, or ประชด / pràchót / ~ being ironic, :-( หน้าบึ้ง / nâ: bûeng / ~ frowning, unhappy face, :´-( ร้องไห้ / rór:ng hâi / ~ to weep, to be sad, >-) ปิศาจ / pìsà:t / ~ devil, ใจร้าย / jai rá:i / ~ evil grin. <3 หัวใจ / hŭa jai / ~ heart, or รัก / rák / ~ to love.

In addition to these horizontal emoticons, where you have to tilt your head to read the text versions, vertical emoticons, originally from Japan, have been very popular in Asian chatrooms, and so also in Thailand – at least as far as this elderly columnist has been able to gather. They include: (^_^) หน้ายิ้มตายิ้ม / nâ: yím ta: tím / ~ smile reaching the eyes,

(=_=) เบื่อ / bùea / ~ to be borred, (._.) เงียบ / ngîap / ~ silent, ก้มหน้า / kôm nâ: / ~ to look down, กลัว / klua / ~ to be afraid, (~_~) พึงพอใจ / phueng phor: jai / ~ content, (-_-) เฉยๆ / chŏe:i chŏe:i / ~ to be indifferent (O_O) ตกใจ / tòk jai / ~ shocked, (-///-) อาย / a:i / ~ to be shy, embarrassed, \ (^o^)/ ไชโย / chai yo: / ~ hurrah, ยกมื อ / yók mue: / ~ to raise the hands (showing excitement), เย้ๆ / yé: yé: / ~ yeah! (n_n) ขอร้อง / khŏr: rór:ng / ~ please, won’t you? (+_+) น็อก / nórk / ~ knocked out, ตาย / ta:i / ~ dead, or maybe just เมา / mao / ~ drunk, (- -?) งง / ngong / ~ confused, or สงสัย / sŏng săi / ~ to wonder, (-_-;) เหงื่อตก / ngùea tòk / ~ เหงื่อออก / ngùea òr:k / ~ sweating, เหน็ดเหนื่อย / nèt nùeai / ~ exhausted, เครียด / khrîat / ~ to be stressed, frustrated. (=[]=) ประหลาดใจ / prálà:t jai / ~ surprised, astonished, ^^ มีความสุข / mi: khwa:m sùk / ~ to be happy.

Phew! Or should I just say (-_-;), that was a show of feelings worthy of an Oscar nominee.

Let’s end the list with an emoticon using Thai characters, most notably the consonant ง / ngor: ngu: / ~ ng:

(ง’̀-’́)ง ยกหมัดเตรียมสู้ ~ put up your dukes!

That’s it, dear reader, and – as you may have seen elsewhere – the ScandAsia Thailand magazine is due to merge with the other ScandAsia magazines into one. This will take effect from January next year and naturally the Thai Language Corner is less relevant to the total readership of the new magazine. Consequently, next month’s column will be the last gathering on the Thai Language Corner, at least for any foreseeable future. The good news, if you have liked the Thai Language Corner, is that there are plans to compile some of the best columns from the past four years into a small book named, guess what, “Thai Language Corner”. Watch out for it in scand.shop.in.th, and, meanwhile, we will keep smiling and say goodbye in December. :-)

November 2017 â&#x20AC;¢ ScandAsia.Thailand 23

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