Surprising Asia
Attending the GSW (Global Summit for Women) last month was a rich and rewarding experience, providing the opportunity to meet and converse with women from diverse corners of the world, from Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, and Korea, to Estonia, Kazakhstan, Mongolia, and Australia; Germany, Spain, Italy, France, and Portugal, to Mexico, a handful from the States, and an enthusiastic and friendly contingent from the US Virgin Islands. At the Saturday night gala, the traditional dress was common. Kazakhstan – proudly representing the largest group – was resplendent in bright red dresses and headdresses with pearl and gold chains.
The conference also gave an inside look at Southeast Asia and its people. Having suffered through the pandemic like the rest of the world, Thailand’s hotels, restaurants, and sites were eager to welcome visitors. Our conference and tour hosts were exceedingly gracious, hospitable, and welcoming. We visited temples that were spectacular in their craftsmanship and splendor. The time and money dedicated to their construction and ornamentation reminded me of the great cathedrals of Europe when workmen and artists willingly dedicated their life’s work to the enterprise, all for a higher good.
Eyes on the Future
Thailand and the rest of Southeast Asia are also squarely looking ahead to the future. Thailand, besides offering beautiful beaches, is also ASEAN’s (Association of Southeast Asian Nations, formed in 1967 in Bangkok) top automotive exporter, biodiesel producer, and Global Health Security. They rank second in the world in exporting hard disk drives, 3rd in bioplastics, 4th in sugar production, and 5th in the global medical tourism market.
Thailand is focused on its positive quality of life attributes and on building a Bio-Circular-Green economy for the future. They envision Thailand as Southeast Asia’s prime destination for the Energy, Material, and Biochemical sectors, including agriculture, health and medicine, and recycling. They have their eye on the Electric and Electronics industry with goals for Zero Emission Vehicles, smart homes and cities, smart agriculture, high-speed transit, and digital technology adoption.
Revering Community
What struck me about their economic plans was the intentional inclusion of enhancing the community and quality of life down to the village level.
When we visited ICONSIAM, the largest shopping center in Bangkok located on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, we learned the family behind its development was determined to not also offer the best in international shopping, but also real opportunities to Thai craftspeople and entrepreneurs from around the country. Sooksiam, on the ground floor, offers food from all 77 provinces, cooked on the spot at a multitude of food stalls. Yum!
Other vendors sell clothing, jewelry, and other crafts. On the fourth and fifth floors, ICONCRAFT offers beautiful unique works of art by renowned Thai artists, from exquisite handwoven silks to furniture, ceramics, and more. Seven art forms are represented here in the form of crafts but also as modern techniques, by some 300 Thai entrepreneurs. Best to visit ICONSIAM at the end of a trip. An extra suitcase comes in handy!
Preserving Tradition
During the conference, we were treated to live excerpts from the Thai epic Ramakien. Dating back hundreds of years, the Khon art form employs drama, dance, exquisite pantomime, and music. We also visited the Museum where the elaborate and stunning Khon costumes and set props are stored when not in use for royal performances. Costumes are sewed by hand with gold thread and the throne room set absolutely glittered.
Thai people are very proud of their King & Queen. They also hold fond memories of Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother. While touring the more remote part of the country with her husband King Bhumibol Adulyadej in the 1960s, she became determined to help improve the lives of the rural areas by encouraging villagers to engage in local handicrafts to generate supplemental income for their families and to preserve cultural artistry that was beginning to disappear. Her efforts led to the establishment of Queen Sirikit Institute, an occupational training center for craftspeople and artisans, and then the Arts of the Kingdom Museum, which houses the breathtaking masterpieces created by the craftspeople of the Institute.
From exquisite works in gold and enamel to basketry, weaving, embroidered ‘paintings’ from the finest silk thread, elaborately carved relief panels, intricate pieces made from jewel beetle wings and masterpieces incorporating several art forms, the Arts of the Kingdom Museum is a tribute to the talent and rich history of Thailand. Words cannot describe artistry. You have to see for yourself!
I found these surprising facets of Thailand – its forward-thinking planning, high numbers of strong female entrepreneurs, and its commitment to preserving its cultural heritage – attractive and appealing. And worth another visit.
By Debbe, President & CEO | August 17, 2022
