MTCC NEWS 2/21

ISSUE 2/2021

F I R S T D I G I T A L N E W S L E T T E R

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C O N T E N T S

Ambassador's message

Hon. Chairman's message

Chairman's message

Introduction of New Directors

Ms. Ng Woan Na and

Ms. Low Giin Lan

Securesoft (Thailand) Co.,Ltd.

Capmax Trading Co., Ltd.

AAA Quantum Co., Ltd.

Accolade Corporation Co., Ltd.

Boba Trinity Co., Ltd.

Member's Spotlight: Favor Woodpanel

(Thailand) Co.,Ltd.

Member's Spotlight: Video

Surveillance alone is not enough for

security

Member's Spotlight: Boba Trinity

celebrates the opening of new outlet

Member's Spotlight: MTCC Director

named as WTR Global Leader 2021

Prinsiptek Thai Limited

PCS Security and Facility Services Ltd.

Prosper & Progress Sdn Bhd

QI Services (Thailand) Ltd.

MTCC Acitivities: CanCham Kickstart

Party

ANNUAL GENERAL

MEETING NO. 1/2021

MTCC ACTIVITIES

The Malaysia – Thai Chamber of Commerce (MTCC) organized its

first virtual Annual General Meeting on Thursday, 27 May 2021.

More than 40 members attended this meeting, which was graced

by our honorary guest and our Patron, H.E. Dato’ Jojie Samuel, the

Ambassador of Malaysia to the Kingdom of Thailand.

Dr. Hwee Khim Boo, the chairman of MTCC and Mr. Yap Choon Eng

presented the Annual Report, Financial Report, and MTCC’s

activities conducted in the past one year to the audience. In

addition, MTCC announced the appointment of 2 new directors

replacing the directors who have resigned for the term of 2021-

2022.

A total of 12 Directors are as follows:

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MTCC Acitivities: Webinar Experience

of a COVID-19 Survivor&Vaccination

MTCC Acitivities: MTCC Leads

Vaccination Drive for Members

CSR: AAPICO Hitech PLC supports the

fight against COVID-19 in Thailand

with donation to Thammasat

University Hospital

CSR: Best Plastics Technology

donated to support COVID-19 fighting

measures

Building back better: Developing

smart and sustainable cities in a post-

COVID world

COVID-19: Travel Information

Medical Devices

Navigating the fintech revolution in

thailand

The rise of sustainability and ESG

agenda in Asia

Global Economics & Market Strategy

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2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

D r. Hwee Khim Boo

Mr. CE Yap

Mr. Halmi bin Mohd Salim

Ms. Susan Lim

Mr. Leong KS

Ms. Sher Hann Chua

7. Mr. Pranart Sarnvivad

8. Mr. VT Ten

9. Ms. Rungnapa Chinvigai

10.Mr. Raymond Chee

11. Ms. Woan Na Ng

12.Ms. Low Giin Lan

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Summary of Malaysia’s Trade

Performance (April 2020/2021)

Thailand Changes its Statutory

Interest Rate

Thailand Introduces Additional

Securities Business Licenses

Rainy Season and COVID-19

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Thailand and Malaysia Event Calendar

DFDL was established in 1994 and founded on a unique

vision: to create an integrated legal and tax advisory firm,

with in-depth knowledge of the developing jurisdictions in

which we are based. Our dedicated professionals exhibit

the acumen and insight necessary to assist you in

navigating the legal complexities and challenges. Drawing

on a wide-ranging industry experience and finely tuned

local knowledge in countries in which we operate, we strive

to provide concise, commercially focused, and innovative

advice.

DFDL has offices, including collaborating firms, in

Bangladesh, Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Myanmar,

Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam.

In 2005, DFDL established a permanent presence in

Bangkok to better serve the needs of our growing client

base in Thailand. With years of solid local experience,

working in conjunction with small and medium businesses,

large corporations, and major Thai banks and financial

institutions, we continue to provide a comprehensive range

of integrated legal, tax, and consulting services in Thailand,

on various types of complex, multi-jurisdiction and crossborder

transactions.

As a full-service law firm, we provide legal and tax services

across all sectors and practice areas. Our team of Thai

and internationally trained legal advisers offers a full range

of services to local and international clients with activities

in Thailand, Southeast Asia, and beyond. We can advise on

all aspects of Thai law.

CORE PRACTICE AREAS

Aviation

Banking, Finance, and Technology

Compliance and Investigations

Corporate and M&A

Employment and Labour

Energy, Mining, and Infrastructure

Restructuring and Insolvency

Real Estate and Construction

Taxation and Accounting

thailand@dfdl.com + 66 2059 4090 + 66 2059 4099

Message From

H.E. Ambasaaador of Malaysia to the Kingdom of Thailand

I wish to congratulate the Malaysian-Thai Chamber of Commerce

(MTCC) for publishing its first-ever digital newsletter. I

believe that this new initiative is most welcomed by its members

as it will have a wider circulation and better serve the objective

of promoting MTCC to all members and non-members alike.

Undoubtedly, the coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic is the defining

global health crisis of our time and the greatest challenge

we have faced since World War Two. Since its emergence in Asia

late 2019, the virus has spread to every part of the world. Countries

are racing to slow the spread of the disease by testing and

treating patients, carrying out contact tracing, limiting travel,

quarantining citizens, and cancelling large gatherings such as

sporting events, concerts, and schools.

The COVID-19 pandemic has left in its wake a multitude of

impacts, not all of them positive or in our interest. At one point

during the pandemic, nearly 80 countries had imposed over 100 new restrictions or other barriers.

At a more immediate level, the pandemic has also changed the way we work and our

consumption patterns, which has, in turn, had its own impact on our businesses and the ability

of firms to meet with international customers.

The pandemic is moving like a wave—one that may yet crash on those least able to cope. But

COVID-19 is much more than a health crisis. By stressing every one of the countries it touches, it

has the potential to create devastating social, economic and political crises that will leave deep

scars.

Countries around the world have started to vaccinate their citizens. Similarly, in Thailand, the

Thai government has started its vaccination drive to vaccinate its citizens as well as all foreigners.

In this regard, I encourage all Malaysians residing in Thailand to take the advantage to register

for the vaccine. It is hoped that by taking the vaccines everyone will be personally protected

from the pandemic.

To meet the challenges posed by the pandemic, businesses around the world had to react in

agile and decisive ways. As we move into the next phase, now is the time for businesses to seek

out and seize the opportunities emerging in the recovery. This involves conducting an “after-action

review” to collect data and insights on lessons learned from the pandemic, and then using

these to prioritise actions to enhance business value today and build strategic resilience for

tomorrow. Businesses that take these steps now will be well-placed to capitalise more effectively

on the opportunities rising in the post-COVID-19 recovery – and to continue winning in their

marketplaces as greater certainty and stability return.

Digital transformation is one tool available to us today, more than during any other past crises.

The rapid advancement in digital technology has offered a way to recoup some of the development

gains and help spur a strong economic revival. We saw how pervasive mobility restrictions

and lockdowns have driven companies to shift their businesses and services online. The use of

digital technology and e-commerce has become the new business norm.

Also, the focus on reskilling and creating career pathways will help the workforce combat the

impact of automation and digital technologies. The pandemic has accelerated job displacements

while creating opportunities in areas like e-commerce, healthcare, last-mile delivery and

consumer technology.

The most important lesson from the COVID-19 pandemic is the importance of working together

on problems that affect the entire human race. We are much stronger united than divided. I

believe that we can weather this crisis by staying united and fighting it together.

Stay safe, stay healthy.

H.E Dato’ Jojie Samuel

Ambassador of Malaysia to the kingdom of Thailand

Honorary Chairman

message for MTCC

Dear Members,

It is an honor that I have been asked to write a short message

for the first all-digital issue of the MTCC newsletter. The Chamber

was started with the initiative of Dato Seri Rafidah Aziz. It

had a very difficult humble beginnings, just like the start of

any foreign chambers in a foreign country. Over the years, the

chamber has found its place in the Thailand business environment,

and plays a very pivotal role in the business community

to support trade between Malaysia and the Kingdom of Thailand.

It is extremely well managed and is well respected by the

Thai business community. The Chamber also works closely to

support the activities of the Malaysian Embassy to improve

the image of Malaysians in the Kingdom of Thailand. I am so

proud to be associated with the Chamber from its inception

until today, over a period of about 20 years.

The current Chairman, Dr Khim Boo, my successor, and the

Board of Directors are carrying their responsibilities very well.

It makes me so proud that the team, who are very busy business

people, sacrifice their time to run the Chamber effectively.

This selfless sacrifice is most commendable.

It is unfortunate the Covid-19 pandemic is affecting the whole

world including Thailand. It has not only affected the closure

of businesses, but took many lives from families. This is probably

the worst disruption of human lives in the modern history

of mankind. It started here in March 2020 and I hope in the

next few months, the seriousness will abate and living can be

more normal again, death be reduced and planes will start

flying normally, and the general economy opened up to the

same level as in the days before the Covid-19 pandemic.

Please stay safe and continue to support the MTCC.

Kind regards

Yeap Swee Chuan

(Honorary Chairman MTCC)

This newsletter is worth mentioning

as it is the first all-digital newsletter

for MTCC. It is an indication that

MTCC is moving forward with the

times in reaching out to a wider audience.

We are also revamping our

website to improve efficiency of

administration and communication.

Mr. Hairuddin Bin Maslan

Counsellor (Agriculture)

Honorary Board of Directors

Mr. Yeap Swee Chuan - Hon. Chairman

Mr. Daniel Soh - Hon. Director

Mr. Khew Ham Hoe - Hon. Director

Mr. Supasak Chirasavinuprapand - Hon. Director

Mr. Yap Choon Eng - Deputy Chairman and

Treasurer

Ms. Woan Na Ng

Unfortunately, just when we thought

the Covid-19 pandemic was tailing

off, the third wave of infections sent

us back to the beginning. The last -

year has been tough for many businesses especially in the

services sector. As we move along the 3rd quarter of the year with

vaccines more readily available, I believe economy will improve.

I am also glad that MTCC is able to secure vaccination slots for our

members. We learned many things from this pandemic, one of

which is that the world is inter-connected; to win over the battle,

we all need to support each other by sacrificing our freedom. I

understand that many companies experience difficulties or were

out of business; however, some have managed to stay afloat in

this difficult time. It sure is a learning curve for all of us to anticipate

the impact of potential business risks. I hope we will all stay

optimistic, and to view such challenges as opportunities.

In May, MTCC held our first ever virtual AGM, and it was good to

see the support of the members at the event. We have appointed

two new Directors, Ms. Woan Na Ng and Ms. May Low Gin Lin to

replace retiring Directors. I would personally like to thank Mr.

Khew Ham Hoe and Mr. Mark Derrick Tang for their contributions

to MTCC.

Finally, on behalf of MTCC, I would like to thank all of you for the

continuous support, and I wish all members a better 3rd and 4th

quarters ahead. Please stay connected via our Facebook and

email updates for the latest MTCC news and activities.

Ms. Low Giin Lan

Mr. Ten Voon Teng

Ms. Pannatorn Chatsrijaroen

| Introduction of New Directors

A Warm Welcome to New MTCC Directors

Ms. Ng Woan Na- Director

Ng Woan Na started her career as a legal practitioner in Malaysia in

2014, focusing primarily on corporate and commercial transactions.

She has advised on cross-border mergers and acquisitions,

take-overs, joint-venture structuring, rights issues and regulatory compliance.

Woan Na moved to Bangkok in 2020 to serve as the Regional

Legal Adviser and China Desk representative of DFDL Legal & Tax.

She advises clients on regulatory compliance of personal data protection

laws, and also handles various transactional and advisory matters.

Woan Na also manages multi-jurisdictional projects across ASEAN,

and leads key matters for Chinese clients while advising them on

inbound investment transactions into Thailand.

Outside of her legal practice, Woan Na also participates in activities under the Institute for Democracy

and Economic Affairs (IDEAS), a non-profit research institute dedicated to promote market-based

solutions to public policy challenges in Malaysia where she focused on implementation progress of

the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) Blueprint back in 2019.

Ms. Low Giin Lan- Director

Low Giin Lan (May) is the Company Director and Chief Executive

Officer of Wellness Lifestyles Company Limited, Wellness (Bangkok)

Co Ltd, Pure Wellness International Co Ltd, Bangkok Genetic Co Limited

and their group companies in Thailand, pioneering the development

of healthcare membership services in Thailand. May Low is also a

former consultant at Samitivej Public Company Limited, where she

promoted loyalty programs for the leading private hospital group. Prior

to her career in healthcare marketing, May was a Senior Finance Manager

at the Leisure Group of Companies and Sunway Group. She was

also awarded the Asia’s Women Leaders Award - Thailand’s Best

Brand Awards in 2019.

May Low graduated with a Masters Degree from the University of Southern Queensland, majoring in

Business Administration, and also holds a Bachelor Degree in Accounting and Human Resources

from Tasmania University.

07 MTCC NEWS July 2021

| NEW MEMBERS

SECURESOFT (THAILAND)

Address: Level 16, Tower A , Muang Thai-Phatra

Complex, 252/20 Rachadaphisek Road, Huay Khwang,

Bangkok 10310

Phone: 02-180-5236

Email:

andychan@securesoft.com.my

Website: www.securesoft.com.my

Chamber Representative: Mr. Andy Chan

Nature of Business: Cyber Security and Mobile

Technology Products/ Services: Banking Security

Solution, Multifactor Authentication, Single Sign On, E-

signature and ITSM

Company Background :

SECURESOFT Thailand Co., Ltd was formed in Bangkok 1st

July 2013 as a private limited company office located in

the center of Bangkok. Our Branch include Hong Kong and

HQ in Kuala Lumpur Malaysia . We are specialized in the

banking sector providing solutions in both hard and soft IT

security products. Over the years , we expanded to the

enterprise sector providing security solution.

Securesoft provide full and comprehensive IT Enterprise &

Security Solutions that can handle complex malware

attacks, unknown files and zero-day threats.. The

company wide reaching fields of IT expertise help

clients to achieve their diverse goals despite the everchanging

nature of the IT field.

Capmax Trading Co., Ltd.

Address: 9/2 Soi Ramkhamhaeng 118 Yak 46-4 Saphan

Sung, Saphan Sung, Bangkok 10240

Phone: +66 (0)83 088 4117

Email:

thai.sales@capmax.co.th

Website: :w ww.capmax.co.th

Chamber Representative: Mr. Jack Liew

Nature of Business: Importer, Distributor and OEM

Packing Service.

Products/ Services:Import and distribute Organic

Grain & Seeds such as Chia Seeds, Quinoa, Rolled Oat,

Mung Bean, Red Bean, Cocoa Powder, Peanut, Almond,

Walnut, and other natural nuts.


Capmax Trading Co., Ltd. is one of the leading organic

grain and seed importer and distributor. Organic product

supply by Capmax Trading Co., Ltd. is certified by USDA, EU

Organic from CERES (Certification of

Environmental Standards GmbH) which will be gone

thru yearly

inspection by CERES Germany.

We are also providing OEM service to Thailand modern

trade such as The mall Group, Lemon Farm Organic Chain,

Tops Supermarket.


| NEW MEMBERS

AAA QUANTUM CO., LTD

Address: 198/29 Golden Neo Onnut 65, Prawet, Bangkok

10250 Tel: (+66) 2-291-7738

E-mail: samhocheemeng@gmail.com

Website: http://www.worlddgt.com/

Chamber Representative : Mr. Chee Meng (Sam) Ho

Accolade Corporation Co., Ltd.

Address: 4th Floor 99/19 Sukhothai Road, Dusit, Bangkok

10300 Tel: +66 2-011-0888

Email: por@accoladelifecenter.com

Website: https://www.accoladelifecenter.com/

Chamber Representative: Mr. Jin How Por

Address:1st Floor, 109 Chalermprakiat , Bangkok

10250 Tel: +66 97-924-3695

E-mail: kinson.hoshino@gmail.com

BOBA TRINITY CO., LTD

Chamber Representative : Mr.Kinson Chong Yee Hing


By Favor Woodpanel (Thailand) Co., Ltd.

| MEMBER’S SPOTLIGHT

Favor Woodpanel (Thailand) Co.,Ltd.

Chamber Representative:

Mr. Eugene Teo - Director

Nature of business:

Importation and distribution of wood panel products within Thailand

Products/ Services:

Various types of Wood panel products such as Plywood, MDF

and Particleboard.

Background Company:

Favor Woodpanel (Thailand) Co Ltd is involved in the importation

and distribution of wood panel products such as Plywood, MDF

and Particleboard within Thailand. We serve a wide range of

customers including dealers, contractors, packaging companies,

furniture companies, etc. Our strength lies in the source of supplies

from various part of the world and our ability to understand

and match customers’ requirements with suitable wood panel

products.

We are part of Dominant Enterprise Berhad, a Malaysian based

company with years of experience in importation, distribution of

wood panel products. It is also the leading company in Malaysia

that produces laminated wood panels, primed density fiberboard

Contact information:

Address: 15 Bangkhuntein-Chaytalay

Road,

Samae Dam Bangkhuntein,

Bangkok 10150 Thailand.

Phone: 02 894 1545

Fax: 02 894 1546

Email:

debgroup@dominant.com.my

Website:

www.dominant.com.my


By Bluguard Global (Thailand) Co., Ltd


Video Surveillance alone is not enough for security

In many cases, building owners tend to install video surveillance to monitor

activities on their premises. Even with rapid technological advancements,

it does not stop the crime rates from increasing.

At Bluguard, we strongly believe that prevention is always better then

cure. Just like the misconception between intrusion alarm with smarthome

system over video surveillance system, people always think that

CCTV would solve their problems even though the footage can only be

used after the crime has been committed, but intrusion alarm with smarthome

systems can prevent the crime from happening or worsening in the

first place.

The advantages for intrusion alarm and smarthome systems are that if

someone tries to break into your property, it will trigger the alarm, providing

you and your family or organization with an instant notification via the

mobile app. You can request help by alerting your family members or

organization by pushing the emergency buttons, both physical or via the

mobile app. You are also able to connect with the security monitoring

center, depending on the system design applied. As for smarthome

systems, you can save tremendous amount of energy as it is aimed at

controlling your properties such as lights, air-conditioners, motorised

curtains, digital door locks and other home appliances by your fingertips,

anywhere and anytime.

Since Bluguard establishment in Thailand two years ago, we are able to

supply multiple projects such as residential projects (URBAN, KUNALAI,

PRINSIRI, PROPERTY PERFECT) and multiple site projects (Perfect

Park / Perfect Place), and many more. As for commercial projects, we

recently secured a Government Housing Bank project on its nationwide

branches in Thailand.

Protect your properties and love ones with Bluguard product and

solution.

For more inquiries:

Line: @bluguardglobal

Website: www.bluguardglobal.com



Boba Trinity Co., Ltd.

celebrates the opening of

new Xing Fu Tang outlet

MTCC wishes to congratulate MTCC member, Boba

Trinity Co., Ltd., on the soft-opening of their latest

Xing Fu Tang outlet in Yaowarat, Chinatown Bangkok

on July 3, 2021 and July 4, 2021. Boba Trinity Co.,

Ltd. is the master franchisee of Xing Fu Tang, a popular

bubble tea chain originating from Taiwan which

has been dubbed Taiwan’s No. 1 brown sugar boba

tea. To date, there are four Xing Fu Tang outlets in

Bangkok, located in Central World (7th Floor),

Emquartier (7th Floor, Helix), IconSiam (Level UG,

Takashimaya), and Yaowarat Chinatown (364-330

Yaowarat Road). Over 1,400 cups of boba tea were

sold during the soft-opening of the Yaowarat branch!

Interested members can visit the official Facebook

page at https://www.facebook.com/xft.thai/.

MTCC Director Named as

WTR Global Leader 2021

MTCC is pleased to share that MTCC Director, Sher

Hann Chua has been named a Global Leader 2021

by the World Trademark Review (WTR) for the

second consecutive year. WTR Global Leaders

draws on WTR’s market-leading research projects,

i.e. the WTR 1000 and the WTR 300 to “identify the

best of the best in trademark practice”. Individuals

named as Global Leaders must first be ranked in the

gold tier of the WTR 1000, which identifies leading

lawyers from more than 80 key jurisdictions in the

world. For more information, please visit

www.worldtrademarkreview.com.


| MEMBER’S PROFILE

Prinsiptek Thai Limited

Address: 11/4 T

iamruammit Road ,Huay Khwang Sub district,Huay

Khwang District , Bangkok 10310 Thailand

Tel: +66 2-180-5236

Fax: +66 2-645-2006

Email:

prinsiptek@prinsiptek.com,cjfoo@prinsiptek.com,

cslai@prinsiptek.com

Website: www.prinsiptek.com


Dato’ Foo Chu Jong- Managing Director

Nature of Business:

Construction and Property Development


Prinsiptek International Limited and Prinsiptek Thai

Limited are the subsidiary companies of Prinsiptek

Corporation Berhad (“Prinsiptek”). Prinsiptek is a

Malaysia incorporated public company listed on the Main

Board of the Bursa Malay-sia Securities Berhad (the stock

exchange in Malaysia). The Prinsiptek Group

commenced its business in 1990 by its Managing

Director, Dato’ Foo Chu Jong. The Group principal activities

are mainly construction and property development.

PCS Security and Facility Services Ltd.

Address: 234 Soi Sukhumvit 101 (Punnavithi) Sukhumvit

Rd., Bangchak, Prakhanong, Bangkok 10260, Thailand

Tel: +66 2 741 8800/ 1290 (Call Centre)

+66 3 7784 1396 (Malaysia Office)

Fax : +66 2 741 8062-3

Email: customer@pcs.co.th

Website: www.pcs.co.th

Chamber Representative: Mr. Harjeet Drubra - CFO

Nature of Business: Integrated Facilities

Management


PCS Security and Facility Services Ltd., also known as PCS,

was established in 1967. We have developed our wealth of

expertise in Facilities Services in Thailand for 50

years, offering quality services to all types of

properties by our experienced professionals. We

currently have over 5,800 clients that are supported

by our network of 21 branches and more than

30,000 employees.

PCS is proud to be part of the OCS Group. OCS

Group is an international facilities management

solutions provider, based in the United Kingdom.

OCS offers more than 70 services across a diverse

range of sectors with the support of over 87,000

employees worldwide.


| MEMBER’S PROFILE

Prosper & Progress Sdn Bhd

Address: 42-1(1st Floor) Persiaran Bayan

Indah, Bayan Bay, 11900 Penang, Malaysia.

Tel : +604-6434768

Fax : +604-6434766

Email:

daniellim.pnp@gmail.com

Chamber Representative: Mr. Daniel Lim - Director

Nature of Business: International Trading Company

Products/ Services: Import & Export Frozen Poultry,

Beef, Pork, and Seafood


Prosper & Progress Sdn Bhd was started by Daniel Lim.

Our main office is located in Penang, Malaysia. We have

a packing factory in India at GMB Plot No. 24/26 Port

Area, Veraval Gujarat – 362269. Our sources of products

are mostly from Europe country, e.g.: Netherland,

Germany, Spain, Ireland, Ukraine, Hungary, Norway, and

Indiia... We supply both locally and oversea markets.

Address: 20th Floor, 540 Mercury Tower Phloenchit,

Lumphini Pathumwan, Bangkok 10330 Thailand

Tel: +66 (0)2207 3888

Fax : +66 (0) 2207 3816

Email: tim.harney@qigroup.com, tim.harney@qnet.net

Website: www.qigroup.com, www.qnet.net


Mr. JR Mayer – Managing Director

Mr. Timothy J. Harney – Market Planning Manager

Nature of Business: Marketing consultant, Product

developer and import/export

Products/ Services:Telecommunications, lifestyle &

leisure, luxury & collectibles, training and conference

management, property development

Company Background : Welcome to the QI Group of

Compa-nies. We are a multinational conglomerate

comprising a dynamic group of companies with

regional offices in Hong Kong, Singapore and Malaysia

and a wide range of subsidiary companies in nearly 30

countries. The QI Group has six main business lines

diversified into telecommunications, lifestyle &

leisure,luxury& collectibles, training and conference

manage-ment, property development and oflagship, a

global retail & direct sales business.

QI Services (Thailand) Ltd.

The constantly evolving group has also expanded

organically into various new segments through strategic

investments around the world.

Our recent investments have been in the field of

telecommu-nications, television and broadcast media, the

banking indus-try, hotels and resorts, commercial and

retail properties, and entertainment. The Group also has

a highly specialised finan-cial services arm that oversees

investments.

Founded in 1998, the QI Group, is an e-commerce

based conglomerate which encompasses all aspects of

business, using the internet as its modality bringing

products and services from all points of the globe to the

customer wherev-er he or she may be. The Group's

expansion into high-quality interrelated businesses,

products and services has created many new

opportunities for our customers. Our success reflects

the creative, entrepreneurial spirit of a resourceful

multi-cultural team spread across the world, led by an

international board of directors who focus on solid

economic fundamentals and an all-consuming

commitment to custom-ers and partners. To learn more

about us, please explore this site and contact us for any

further information.


| MTCC ACTIVITIES

CanCham Kickstart Party

MTCC Directors and members participated in the CanCham Kickstart Party on 11 March 2021

(Thursday) at 18.00 hrs. at the Mango Tree Surawongse Restaurant.

The event was organized by CanCham Thailand, and was supported by MTCC. All attendees had a

great time together, enjoying the scrumptious food and drinks, along with live music and great company.

WE-Brand Financing for Women-Led Business

On April 27, 2021, MTCC joined the “WE-Brand Financing for Women-Led Business” event, which

was organized by the Thai-Norwegian Chamber of Commerce. This event introduced opportunities

for women to lead businesses, and shared information to improve access to finance in Thailand. It

also gave attendees the opportunity to meet the VP of the Thai-Norwegian of Commerce, an

entrepreneur herself, who shared her own experience in this sphere. Attendees also had the

opportunity to hear about ‘Connecting Founders’, a Bangkok-based advisory firm supporting

women-led businesses to attract capital and strategic partners across all stages of growth, and to

receive advice on how to be ‘investment ready’.


| MTCC ACTIVITIES

Webinar on “Experience of a COVID-19 Survivor & Vaccination”

MTCC Directors and members participated in the “Experience of a COVID-19 Survivor &

Vaccination” webinar on May 27, 2021.The purpose of the meeting was to share what actually

happens in the process of COVID-19 care through the experience of Mr. Jen Meckhayai, Executive

Director of the Thai-Canadian Chamber of Commerce who tested positive for COVID -19, and to

address any prevailing misunderstanding of the existing care process in Thailand.Attendees of the

webinar also had the opportunity to hear from frontliners, such as Dr. Nantanit Chiamcharoenvut

(Internal Medicine physician) who explained the medical processes involved.

“Fundraising via Asset-Backed Digital Tokens” Webinar

On July 5, 2021, MTCC organized a cryptocurrency webinar on “Fundraising via Asset-Backed Digital

Tokens – The Thai Perspective”. The discussion was led by two panel speakers, Mr. Kavin Phongpandecha

(Co-Founder & Chief Executive Officer, Bitazza) and Mr. Vinay Ahuja (Partner, Head of Regional

Banking, Finance and Technology Group, DFDL Legal & Tax). Both speakers shared their valuable

insights and experiences from both commercial and legal domains, on new fundraising mechanisms

through the use of asset-backed digital tokens, including the use of tangible assets such as real

estate. The discussion, which was moderated by Woan Na Ng (Member of MTCC Board of Directors),

concluded with an engaging and illuminating Q&A session that was well received by more than 60

registered participants.


| MTCC ACTIVITIES

MTCC Leads Vaccination Drive for Members

In conjunction with the rollout of the nationwide vaccination program, MTCC is proud to share that

we have successfully registered interested MTCC members for vaccination slots at Vimut Hospital

in July 2021. As of July 27, 2021, 100 individuals have received their first dose of the

Astra-Zeneca Covid-19 vaccine via MTCC’s collaboration with Vimut Hospital. MTCC would like

to thank Vimut Hospital, and our friends at the Singapore-Thai Chamber of Commerce for assisting

in the coordination efforts.


| CSR ACTIVITIES

AAPICO Hitech PLC supports the fight against COVID-19 in

Thailand with donation to Thammasat University Hospital

On June 22 2021, AAPICO Hitech Public Listed Company made a donation of 1,000,000 baht to Thammasat

University Hospital to support the fight against Covid-19.This donation is part of AAPICO’s commitment to

support the people and communities where it operates.The third wave of the Covid-19 pandemic has been

escalating and continuously increasing in the region.This funding is used for Covid-19 diagnostics, treatments,

medical supplies, and vaccines by Thammasat University Hospital to support the local community.

| CSR ACTIVITIES

Best Plastics Technology donated to support

COVID-19 fighting measures

MTCC member, Best Plastics Technology donated THB 350,000 to Sirindhorn Hospital Medical Service

Department located at 20 Soi Onnuch 90, Prawet, Bangkok, to support the Department’s COVID-19 tackling

efforts.

Best Plastics Technology Co., Ltd.

Quality Colorants and Additives Leaders Trust!

Dry Colorants and

Masterbatches

Specialty

Compounding

Additives

Color Toll Compounding

www.bestcolorant.com Tel: 02 800 1501

By Mr. Andy Cheah, Managing Director, Country Head of Wholesale Banking, UOB Thailand

| MEMBER’S CORNER

Building back better: Developing smart and sustainable

cities in a post-COVID world

As the world seeks its way out of the COVID-19 pandemic, international communities have started to think

ahead to ensure economic recovery goes hand in hand with efforts to protect the environment. How to build

back better is now a focus of many policymakers and business leaders around the world.

One of their key focus areas is how to accommodate urbanisation through the development of smart cities.

According to the World Bank, around 50 per cent of the world’s population live in towns and cities and this figure

is expected to rise to 68 per cent by 2050.

As people converge in cities for employment opportunities, the United Nations estimates that by 2030, there will

be 43 megacities across the world with a population of more than 10 million. Asia alone is projected to have 30

megacities.

Growing cities and megacities will inevitably face challenges in areas such as waste management, transportation,

energy supply, security and supporting infrastructure, including healthcare and other amenities. For

sustainable and high standards of living, smart city initiatives are critical. They are even more essential in developing

countries and cities where the pace of urbanisation is projected to be the fastest.

Under the Paris Agreement, more than 190 markets have pledged to take action to keep the global temperature

increase to below two degrees Celsius and to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees. Asian countries have also

committed to reducing carbon emission intensity by up to 65 per cent by 2030.

As governments globally work on stabilising their economies from the impact of COVID-19, some have heeded

calls by international agencies such as the International Energy Agency and world leaders to promote a “green”

recovery. Ways to do this include allocating higher investments to renewable energy and energy efficiency,

creating green jobs (such as those in land restoration and revegetation of private and public conservation land)

and building green cities.

In Asia, the Singapore government has put in place the Singapore Green Plan 2030 to strengthen the

city-state’s commitments to climate action and sustainable development. Thailand has also laid out a long-term

direction on sustainable development through its 20-Year National Strategy Framework (2017–2036). One of

the six key strategies is to drive eco-friendly development and growth that aims to promote mutual growth in

terms of economy, environment and quality of life in the country.

In order to achieve these ambitious targets, various Asian governments have introduced incentives such as

green finance funds, tax exemptions, investment subsidies and regulations aimed at promoting sustainable

practices. Thailand is targeting to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 20 per cent by 2030 through its

socioeconomic, energy, transport, industrial and waste management development plans.

Driving the development of smart and sustainable cities

We believe smart and sustainable living is possible with the right technology enablers and infrastructure.

For example, over the years, the real estate sector worldwide has been stepping up its response to climate

change and sustainable development through green building construction amid the increasing awareness of

the environmental impact of urbanisation. The advancements in technology have also propelled the progress

in renewable energy, energy efficiency, green transport, sustainable water management, waste management

and treatment, as well as climate change adaptation.

In addition to improving the quality of life, smart and sustainable cities have the potential to offer governments,

companies and citizens cost and time savings. Based on research by McKinsey, in smart cities, commuting time

could be reduced by 15 to 20 per cent, cost of living expenses could fall one to three per cent, greenhouse gas

emission could decline 10 to 15 per cent and water consumption could fall 20 to 30 per cent. There are also

benefits such as lower crime by as much as 40 per cent and greater efficiency and up to 65 per cent in time

saved on interactions with government bodies and healthcare institutions.

Continued page 21 20 MTCC NEWS July 2021

By Mr. Andy Cheah, Managing Director, Country Head of Wholesale Banking, UOB Thailand

| MEMBER’S CORNER

Continued from page 20

UOB is committed to forging a sustainable future and to driving the change through our provision of financial

support. The UOB Smart City Sustainable Finance Framework sets the criteria for companies to obtain green

or sustainability-linked loans, deposits and trade facilities. Aligned with the UN Sustainable Development

Goals, this framework makes sustainable financing more accessible to companies contributing to the creation

of smart and sustainable cities that are effective and efficient.

One key initiative under the UOB Smart City Sustainable Finance Framework is our U-Solar programme, Asia’s

first integrated solar power ecosystem to promote the development and adoption of solar power in ASEAN.

Through U-Solar, UOB provides end-to-end financing solutions, such as cash management and green financing

to solar project developers, as well as end-to-end contract-based financing solutions to engineering,

procurement, construction and commissioning contractors. We also partner these developers and service

providers to offer affordable access to solar power systems and financing to households, industrial and commercial

users.

Companies that are keen to explore opportunities arising the development of smart and sustainable cities can

contact us to find out how UOB can facilitate your journey through UOB’s Sustainable City Solutions.

To find out more about UOB’s Green Building Financing Solutions, please visit:

https://www.uobgroup.com/industry-insights-th/real-estate-hospitality/green-building.page

By Malaysia Airlines Berhad

| MEMBER’S CORNER

Information update as of : 11 Jun 2021

COVID-19: Travel Information

Travel Procedures & Quarantine

Order Entry Requirements

1. Passengers must hold valid MYTravel Pass (MTP)

before entering Malaysia.

2. Undergo COVID-19 screening test upon arrival

(which may take up to 3 hours).

3. All Malaysians and foreigners travelling from overseas

must undergo COVID-19 document check or

testing at the airport's International Entrance before

their connecting flight into Malaysia (within 24 hours).

4. All Malaysians and foreigners travelling from overseas

must undergo mandatory quarantine at designated

quarantine centres at their point of arrival in

Malaysia with a negative RT-PCR taken three (3)

days before departing to Malaysia. Those traveling

into Malaysia without the RT-PCR will undergo mandatory

quarantine.

5. The cost for quarantine that includes COVID 19

screening test, transport, accommodation, meal, and

handling cost as determined by the Malaysian Ministry

of Health are to be borne by passengers. Payment

of any applicable charges are to be made through the

MySafeTravel System accessible on https://safetravel.myeg.com.my/

or the MyQR phone app prior to

their arrival into Malaysia to avoid congestion at the

airport.

6. Passengers are required to install the MySejahtera

application on their phones for contact tracing purposes.

The app is developed by the Government of

Malaysia especially for Malaysians and Non-Malaysians

returning or visiting Malaysia starting from

departure, upon arrival and during the quarantine

period. Passengers may visit https://mysejahtera.malaysia.gov.my

for more information.

7. Family members are advised by the government

not to turn up at the airport as the passengers will be

sent straight to the quarantine centres. Passengers

may contact the National Disaster Management

Agency at +603-8064 2400 or opsroom@nadma.gov-

.my / covid19operation@nadma.gov.my for any

enquiries.

For more information please visit : https://www.malaysiaairlines.com/th/en/advisory/travel-information.html


By MATRADE BANGKOK

| MEMBER’S CORNER

MEDICAL DEVICES

Malaysia’s medical devices manufacturers and suppliers

continue to innovate and improve their products in a

highly challenging global business environment.

With its overriding philosophy of seeking to make tomorrow

a healthier one for all, Malaysia’s medical devices

industry has seen tremendous growth in the design and

manufacture of world class products. The sector benefits

from the support of the country’s strong ecosystem in the

semi-conductor, machinery & equipment, electrical &

electronics, metal stamping and plastics industries, which

provide the necessary environment to make it an ideal

manufacturing location for medical devices.

In 2020, Malaysia’s export of medical devices saw double-digit

growth valued at RM29.99 billion or USD7.16

billion. Over 90% of medical devices manufactured in

Malaysia are exported to its top ten export destinations:

the USA, Germany, Singapore, Japan, Belgium, China,

Netherlands, Brazil, UK and Australia. These countries

account for more than 70% of the total exports of medical

devices.

Malaysia’s position as the world’s largest producer and

exporter of rubber gloves has been a decades long

endeavour to produce the very best quality medical

gloves and it currently accounts for 60% of the world’s

market. This undertaking towards excellence has paid

dividends, allowing the country to expand into other areas

of medical consumables including a variety of other quality

medical products such as appliances and apparatus,

syringes, sutures, needles, catheters, pace makers and

others. Malaysia currently accounts for 80% of the world’s

catheter supplies.

This vibrant and highly innovative sector also supplies

higher value-added and technologically advanced products

such as cardiac pacemakers, stents, orthopaedic

implantable devices, electro-medical, therapeutic and

monitoring devices as well as rapid diagnostic test kits.

Malaysian companies are currently also producing

capnography items, a highly indispensable component of

anaesthesia and intensive care monitoring procedures.

As Malaysia moves towards Industry 4.0, its companies

are increasingly undertaking Research & Development

especially in incorporating robotics, automation, integrated

processes and IoT into their manufacturing processes.

This has resulted in accelerating the pace of innovation

and revolutionising product development, manufacturing

processes and business models.

The production of medical devices in Malaysia is

highly regulated by the Medical Devices Authority

(MDA), a body under the Ministry of Health that is

tasked with ensuring that all medical products from

Malaysia adhere to international standards as well as

global regulatory compliance systems. This has seen

its products receive the recognition of various quality

standards including the Food and Drug Administration

(United States), CE certification (Europe) and Department

Of Health (United Kingdom).

MATRADE has been providing assistance by way of

ensuring Malaysian companies’ participation in global

trade exhibitions such as Arab Health and Europe’s

Medica. It has also been conducting extensive virtual

meetings during this period of restricted movement

via its eBizMatch programme between Malaysian

suppliers and potential buyers from the USA, United

Kingdom, The Netherlands, UAE, South Africa, Hong

Kong and Australia. Recent sales have included

rubber gloves, personal protective equipment (PPE),

facemasks, syringes, catheters and sutures.

The tagline, “Choose Malaysia”, carries with it a

wealth of experience and a commitment to excellence

in the production and manufacture of outstanding

products in a variety of medical devices and supplies.

Contact MATRADE Bangkok to find the ideal Malaysian

supplier to suit your needs and for more information,

please contact:

Trade Commissioner

Mr Norman Dzulkarnain Nasri

Embassy of Malaysia

Commercial and Investment Office

4th Floor, Unit 401, Sathorn Square Office Tower,

98 North Sathorn Road, Khwaeng Silom, Khet Bang

Rak,

Krung Thep Maha Nakhon, 10500 Bangkok,

Thailand

Telephone : +66 2108 1792 / 93 / 94

Email : bangkok@matrade.gov.my

Issued by Malaysia External Trade Development

Corporation (MATRADE)

For more information about MATRADE, please visit

www.matrade.gov.my.

The production of medical devices in Malaysia is highly

regulated by the Medical Devices Authority (MDA), a body

under the Ministry of Health that is tasked with ensuring

that all medical products from Malaysia adhere to international

standards as well as global regulatory compliance

systems. This has seen its products receive the recognition

of various quality standards including the Food and

Drug Administration (United States), CE certification

(Europe) and Department Of Health (United Kingdom).

Continued page 24


By MATRADE BANGKOK

| MEMBER’S CORNER


About MATRADE

The Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MA-

TRADE) was established on March 1, 1993 as the external

trade promotion arm of Malaysia's Ministry of International

Trade and Industry (MITI). Its functions are:

● To promote, assist and develop Malaysia's external trade

with particular emphasis on the export of manufactured and

semi-manufactured products and services;

●To formulate and implement export marketing strategies

and trade promotion activities to promote Malaysia's export;

● To undertake commercial intelligence and market research

and create a comprehensive database of information for the

improvement and development of Malaysia's trade;

● To organise training programmes to improve the international

marketing skills of Malaysian exporters;

● To enhance and protect Malaysia's international trade

investment abroad; and

● To promote, facilitate and assist in the services areas related

to trade.


NAVIGATING THE FINTECH REVOLUTION IN THAILAND

| MEMBER’S CORNER

The Thai financial services sector remains heavily regulated

and still subject to various licensing, registration, notification or

approval requirements. These include: e-payment licenses,

securities licenses, lending licenses, banking licenses, credit

card business licenses, foreign exchange licenses, money

transfer licenses and peer-to-peer lending platform and crowdfunding

platform licenses.

In addition to the licensing/approval requirements, participants

in the financial services sector are subject to regulatory compliance

in terms of ensuring minimum IT security systems, data

and consumer protection, anti-money laundering safeguards,

exchange controls.

THAILAND’S FINTECH HORIZON

Thailand 4.0 is a much-publicized national policy that lays the

foundations of the country’s innovation and technology development

strategy. In line with plans to create a ’digital economy’,

the Digital Economy Promotion Agency (DEPA) is tasked with

steering digital transformation by engaging both public and

private bodies alike.

The Thai Government continues to take active steps to ensure

that Thailand remains an attractive destination for fintech participants

through the use of regulatory and non-regulatory

approaches. Regulatory support for fintech has continued to

grow in Thailand, with several new pieces of legislation having

been passed. Fintech development has seen four areas of

growth: (1) Digital Payments (2) Insurance (3) Lending and

Deposits and (4) Investment. We discuss Thailand’s responses

to date which aim to facilitate the growth of fintech in the country

and encourage overseas investment into Thailand.

THAILAND’S FINTECH SANDBOXES

Thailand was among the first countries in the world to introduce

regulatory sandboxes, three of which were under the auspices

of Thailand’s most prominent financial regulators, the Bank of

Thailand (“BOT”), the Securities and Exchange Commission

(“SEC”) and the Office of Insurance Commission; with the fourth

being initiated and supported by the Thai Fintech Association.

In keeping with the spirit of learning and adapting that should be

the defining characteristics of any sandbox, the BOT issued a

new set of guidelines in 2019 which repealed those issued in

2016 by developing on the lessons learnt and feedback

received from the industry incumbents. Of particular note are

the types of sandboxes that are permitted under the new rules,

i.e. the traditional regulatory sandbox and what is commonly

referred to as ‘own sandbox’ where the former supports trials of

‘never before’ seen innovations whereas the latter applies the

testing of new iterations of existing financial services. ‘Own

sandboxes’ are subject to periodic reporting to BOT as opposed

to direct supervision in a regulatory sandbox.

Technologies being developed under the BOT sandbox include

identification verification implementing the National Digital Identity

(“NDID”) for bank account opening, biometric recognition

and the furtherance of the blockchain use case for letters of

credit and international payments. QR code payments have

matured beyond the phase of experimentation into what is now

covered by the Standardized Thai QR Code for Payment Transaction

Policy Guidelines.

By DFDL (Thailand) Limited

Similarly, SEC regulatory sandboxes now cater specifically to

the digitalization of securities and derivative businesses and

their processes such as clearing houses, depositories and

registrars and the continuous evolution of KYC procedures.

A natural corollary to the implementation of the NDID for bank

account opening would be the launch and issuance of digital

bank licenses.

Since the formal issuance of regulation relevant to mobile and

internet banking in 2018, certain banking products and services

of commercial banks were given autonomy in the sense that

prior BOT approval was no longer a prerequisite. The planned

launch of digital bank licenses edges closer to reality despite

the cutthroat competition and natural disruption this would

naturally entail. However, given that fintech is premised on

financial inclusion and if Thailand is to keep pace with its regulatory

peers in Singapore, South Korea, Japan, Hong Kong and

China, the BOT would do well to take the lead in the market

sooner rather than later.

The writing is on the wall with a large number of brick-and-mortar

bank branches having been shut down and reliance on

physical banking transactions being gradually phased out over

the past decade. However, as identified by the outgoing BOT

governor, Veerathai Santiprabhob, ‘3 key pillars are needed to

build digital banks: data from non-financial sources, an

electronic identification system, and a suitable regulatory

framework’, Thailand must establish an internationally comparable

standard in this regard. On two fronts, i.e. personal data

protection and NDID, matters appear to be pressing forward.

For the third pillar, a regulatory framework could be the priority

for the next BOT governor, especially in the context of sharply

reduced physical banking transactions given the disruption

being caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

PEER-TO-PEER LENDING

2019 was an eventful year for the peer-to-peer (“P2P”) lending

platform industry with formal regulation by way of the

much-awaited Notification 4/2562 Re: The Determination of

Rules, Procedures, and Conditions for Peer-to-Peer Lending

Businesses and Platforms, which came into effect on 30 April

2019. Among other notable requirements of the Notification,

the P2P lending platform providers’ participation in the BOT

regulatory sandbox for up to a year is compulsory before the

formal license application process can actually begin with the

Ministry of Finance (“MOF”) through the BOT; this would

ensure proper risk management and consumer protection. As

of date, the BOT has allowed three P2P lending platform

providers to launch P2P lending between a limited number of

users in its regulatory sandbox, i.e. DeepSparks Peer Lending

Co., and more recently, Nestifly Co. and Peer Power Platform

Co.

The Notification defining a ‘borrower’ only as an individual has

unfortunately left the playing field for platform-based corporate

P2P lending noticeably unregulated. Whether this was a deliberate

omission or a ‘wait-and see’ regulatory approach on the

part of the MOF and BOT (given the industry’s relative

newcomer status) remains to be seen. It also remains to be

determined as to whether platform-based corporate P2P lending

will be regulated in the future.


NAVIGATING THE FINTECH REVOLUTION IN THAILAND

| MEMBER’S CORNER

By DFDL (Thailand) Limited


CROWDFUNDING

2019 also saw crowdfunding activities being regulated in Thailand by the SEC pursuant to the SEC Notification Tor Jor. 21/2562 Re: The

Offering of Securities for Sale through Crowdfunding Portals, thereby presenting fintech enabled fundraising for startups and SMEs at the

grass roots level. Pursuant to the Notification, crowdfunding portals or platforms are defined as websites or mobile applications or other

electronic media developed and deployed for the offer of securities, being crowdfunding shares and debentures.

In early 2020, we see a relaxation of rules in respect of ‘debenture crowdfunding’ whereby debenture issuers are no longer required to cancel

their offering if they do not reach 100% of their target project values. An issuer can raise up to 80% of its fund goals and can disclose information

to investors for pushing through with the offering. As compared to the previous ‘all or nothing’ rule, i.e. where issuers are required to fully

meet the targeted fundraising amount failing which such projects are to be nullified, this updated policy is regarded by many as a good indicator

that the SEC is embracing the realities of the current business environment.

Further validation by the SEC on crowdfunding exercise was also seen in February 2021, where SME debenture crowdfunding licenses were

granted to both Siam Validus (a joint venture between foreign fintech firm Validus and Thai retail and distribution company SCG Distribution)

and Funding Societies. Such step has provided Thai entrepreneurs and SMEs with an accessible and intelligent platform to access capital

via debt crowdfunding, thus affording them with more confident in their growth and contribution to Thailand’s economy.

DIGITAL ASSETS

The evolving digital assets regulatory landscape was also seen in 2020 and 2021. In Thailand, digital assets comprise two classes of assets

namely: cryptocurrency and digital tokens. A cryptocurrency can be deemed as a digital token in the case where the issuer intends to raise

funds from the public, and if the cryptocurrency: (a) determines the right of an investor to invest in any particular project or business; or (b)

determines the right to receive specific goods, services or any other right as agreed between parties.

The SEC periodically issues list of approved cryptocurrencies. As of June 2021, the recognized form of cryptocurrency in Thailand that an

offeror of digital tokens or a digital asset business operator, can accept as consideration for transactions are Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH),

Riple (XRP) and Stellar (XLM).

Essentially, the Digital Asset Decree mainly governs two aspects of regulated activities: (1) offering of digital tokens to the public, commonly

known as an initial coin offering (“ICO”); and (2) operation of digital asset businesses.

To offer the digital tokens to the public, the issuer must (1) have the specified qualifications; (2) obtain an approval from the SEC; and (3) file

a registration statement for the offering of digital tokens and the draft prospectus to the SEC. Such offering must be done through the

approved ICO portal.

The SEC also provides a private placement regime for the offering of digital tokens to certain groups of investors, i.e. offering to only qualified

investors, or offering to only a limited amount of investors, or offering only up to a limited offering size within a specified timeframe, in which

a deemed approval would be granted from the SEC and the offeror would thereby be exempted from filing a registration statement and

prospectus with the SEC.

In 2021, the SEC has issued a set of new regulations governing digital token offerings that refer to, or for which the cash flow comes from,

real estate, i.e. real-estate backed tokens. The key requirement remains that the amount or value of the investment in real estate must not

be less than 80% of the project’s amount or value, or the aggregate value of the real estate to be invested must not be less than THB 500

million.

Generally, all digital asset business operators are subject to licensing and regulatory requirements. However, there are three specific scenarios

where operators could be eligible for certain regulatory exemptions:

Business operations by the BOT which could be considered as digital asset businesses, provided that the digital assets are issued and

processed by the BOT.

Business operations by an exchange, broker, or dealer offering digital token exchange services, provided that: (1) the exchange is done

solely for the same types of digital token; and (2) such digital tokens are utility tokens (or other digital tokens that entitle the holder to receive

the right from utility tokens), which the underlying products or services must be ready-to-use as of the date of the offering.

Digital asset broker or dealer who provides sale or purchase services only for digital assets whose value has been pegged against the THB

at a fixed exchange rate and has a clear mechanism to fix such value. The sale or purchase of digital assets must be done in exchange for

THB at the specified set value, and any payments must be made through a financial institution recognized under the anti-money laundering

law.

THAILAND

For more information on the development

and regulatory compliance in respect of

fintech landscape in Thailand, please contact:


By Mr. Jason JS Lee

| MEMBER’S CORNER

THE RISE OF THE SUSTAINABILITY AND ESG AGENDA IN ASIA

more likely to attract customer loyalty and new

customer segments. There is also a link on the B2B

side where large companies are seeking to channel

ESG through their value chain. Suppliers to the

world’s largest retailers, for example, are expected to

have strong sustainability proposition on plastics,

water use, etc.

2. Cost

If an organization is more resource- and water-efficient,

and has less packaging, for example, it will

generally have a lower unit-cost structure.

The Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) or

Sustainability agenda continues to become more and

more mainstream and is playing an increasingly dominant

role in business decisions and policy developments

around the world, particularly during the past five

years. ESG issues link together the idea that the environment,

social factors and good governance, materially

affect an organization’s presence in the world.

J.P. Morgan reported in mid-2020 that the broadly

defined ESG market – assets following global sustainable

investment approaches, is estimated to reach

USD45-trillion AUM by the end of 2020. For comparison,

the total market capitalisation of securities listed in

Bursa Malaysia is only around USD430-billion

(RM1.7-trillion) by November 2020. In terms of good

ESG and Sustainability performance converting to

good financial outcomes, there have been more than

two thousand studies, of which 70-percent of them

have found a positive relationship between ESG scores

and financial returns, whether measured by equity

returns, profitability or valuation multiples.

Evidence is also emerging that better ESG and Sustainability

scores may lead to about a 10-percent lower

cost of capital, as the risks that affect businesses in

terms of its license to operate are reduced if there is

strong ESG and Sustainability proposition. At the

recent European 2020 M&A Conference in London,

experts from McKinsey revealed five sources of fundamental

business value, after looking at the reasons

behind the relationship between ESG performance and

financial outcomes, that leads to the roughly 10-percent

advantage in cost of capital.

Here are the five sources of fundamental business

values that were identified:

1. Top-line growth

There is evidence that brands with more sustainable

impact grow faster than brands that have a less

sustainable proposition. Consumer goods companies

with a stronger sustainability proposition are-

3. Regulatory relationships

Being more responsible about an assets’ environmental

footprint, the chances of adverse or punitive

regulatory outcome are lower.

4. Talent

New recruits and millennials demand purposeful

work. Employers that can meet that need will attract

and retain talent and likely higher productivity in the

workplace. Evidence suggests that this is worth

roughly 2 percent of stock price each year.

5. Investment Optimization

There are downside risks of holding potential stranded

assets. For example, coal assets and oil tankers

have seen significant write-downs in recent years, in

contrast with the enormous opportunities in ESG-related

investments, such as technology that could

improve air quality.

Regulators and policy makers are also taking on an

increasing interest in ESG and Sustainability concerns

because they hope that the business sector

could work together to resolve urgent issues that

include climate change, human rights, inclusion and

diversity, and corruption

Governments, financial market regulators and stock

exchanges continue to drive the sustainability and

ESG agenda. The number of ESG and Sustainability

provisions issued by governmental bodies is reported

to have grown by 74% since 2016. Financial market

regulators, stock exchanges and industry bodies, on

the other hand, are more active in issuing codes,

guidance, standards, self-regulatory requirements

and questionnaires.

From a global overview, Asia is now an up and

coming space for ESG and Sustainability. It is now a

close follower of Europe in terms of the volume of

reporting provision developments.From a global

overview, Asia is now an up and coming space for

ESG and Sustainability. It is now a close follower of-


By Mr. Jason JS Lee

| MEMBER’S CORNER Continued from page 27

reporting provision developments. These developments

include a shift towards mandatory reporting, as

reported by the 2020 edition of Carrots & Sticks that

assesses the regulatory landscape of non-financial

and sustainability reporting. In the Asia Pacific region,

there are now 75 voluntary provisions and 99 mandatory

provisions. This is way ahead of North America

with only 16 voluntary provisions and 31 mandatory

provisions. By 2020, there was a strong surge of

“comply or explain” provisions in Asia.

The majority of reporting provisions target specifically

large and listed companies, whereby many stock

exchanges in the region have established and published

ESG reporting guidelines. Most exchanges in

Asia are now members of the Sustainable Stock

Exchanges (SSE) initiative.

The SSE initiative is a United Nations partnership

programme to provide “a global platform for exploring

how exchanges, in collaboration with investors, companies

(issuers), regulators, policymakers and relevant

international organizations, can enhance performance

on ESG issues and encourage sustainable

investment, including the financing of the UN Sustainable

Development Goals.”

Here are Asian stock exchanges participating in the

SSE initiative, that have both ESG reporting requirements

as a listing rule, and written guidance on ESG

reporting:

1.China: Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited

• Issuers must publish their ESG reports on an annual

basis and regarding the same period covered in their

annual reports. Reporting requirements can be found

in the related Main Board Listing Rules and the ESG

Reporting Guide, Appendix 27 to the Main Board

Listing Rules.

• Effective on 1 July 2020, the changes to the ESG

Reporting Guide focus on the board’s leadership role

and accountability in ESG and the governance structure

for ESG matters.

• The revised ESG Reporting Guide comprises two

levels of disclosure obligations: (a) mandatory disclosure

requirements; and (b) “comply or explain” provisions.

Issuers must disclose the information required

under the “Mandatory Disclosure Requirements”; and

if the issuer does not report on one or more of the -

“comply or explain” provisions, it must provide considered

reasons in its ESG report.

2. India: Bombay Stock Exchange

• BSE signed Memorandum of Understanding with

GRI for creating awareness amongst companies and

investors regarding ESG Disclosures

•BSE–Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP) initiative.

BSE signed Memorandum of Understanding with

CDP India to jointly carry out activities for creating

awareness about filing sustainability/ESG data with

CDP. CDP India is actively in touch with Top 200

(BSE-200 constituents) companies to encourage

them to report non-financial data. The data received

from CDP will be used for the calculations of S&P

BSE Carbonex.

3. Indonesia: Indonesia Stock Exchange

• Sustainability reporting is required under Indonesia

Financial Services Authority (Otoritas Jasa Keuangan)

rule number 51/POJK.03/2017: Implementation

of Sustainability Finance for Financial Services Institutions,

Issuers and Public Companies.

• All listed companies are required to publish Sustainability

Reporting starting from:

o Banking Corporations (from 2019)

o Listed Companies (from 2020)

4. Malaysia: Bursa Malaysia

• In October 2015, Bursa Malaysia issued amendments

to the Main Market Listing Requirements

(“Main LR”) and ACE Market Listing Requirements

(“ACE LR”) (collectively referred to as the “LR”) relating

to sustainability statements in annual reports

(“Sustainability Amendments”).

• Under the Sustainability Amendments, listed issuers

are required to disclose a narrative statement of the

management of material economic, environmental

and social (“EES”) risks and opportunities (“Sustainability

Statement”) in their annual reports. This

replaces the existing statement on the corporate

social responsibility (“CSR”) activities or practices

required to be disclosed by listed issuers. For the

Main Market listed issuers, they are also required to

include in their Sustainability Statement, the

prescribed information as set out in Practice Note 9 of

the Main LR such as the governance structure, the

scope of the Sustainability Statement and the management

of material EES risks and opportunities

(“material sustainability matters”). The prescribed

disclosure is not applicable to ACE Market listed

corporations given the type and size of the listed

corporations.

•In addition to the above, the LR also encourages all

listed issuers to refer to the Sustainability Reporting

Guide as a best practice when preparing the Sustainability

Statement and in identifying material sustainability

matters.


By Mr. Jason JS Lee

| MEMBER’S CORNER Continued from page 28

5. Philippines: Philippine Stock Exchange

• In 2019 the Philippines SEC launched a guidance on

sustainability reporting and announced a penalty for

an “Incomplete Annual Report” for all those companies

that do not submit sustainability information together

with their annual report on a comply or explain basis.

• The Philippines Securities and Exchange Commission

announced in 2019 the requirement of sustainability

reporting on a comply or explain basis for all

listed companies, together with the publication of a

guidance. The guidance is intended to help listed companies

assess and manage non-financial performance

across economic, environmental and social aspects of

their organization and enable listed companies to

measure and monitor their contributions towards

achieving universal targets of sustainability, such as

the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals as well as

national policies and programs, such as AmBisyon

Natin 2040.

6. Singapore: Singapore Exchange

• Sustainability reporting is introduced on a “comply or

explain” basis.

• Guide to Sustainability Reporting for Listed Companies.

• Sustainability reporting portal on SGX website containing

resources relating to sustainability reporting,

including materials contributed by sustainability consultants,

information on sustainability workshops and

global reporting frameworks.

• An Investor’s Guide to Reading Sustainability

Repots.

7. Thailand: Stock Exchange of Thailand

• The Securities and Exchange Commission mandates

sustainability reporting. Refer to SEC’s Sustainability

Development Road Map for Listed Companies,

May 2014.

• Guidelines for Sustainability Reporting released in

2010.

• Apart from the publications, SET has produced

newsletter ‘SD Focus’ as key communication channels

between the Exchange and listed companies, to keep

them abreast with the up-and-coming sustainability-related

trends in the global business world.

• In addition, a series of guidance documents and

manuals can be found on SET’s Social Responsibility

Center and Corporate Governance Center.

• In January 2021, Thailand SEC (Securities and

Exchange Commission) has announced it has

become an official supporter of the TCFD (Task Force

on Climate-Related Financial Disclosures). The SEC

says it wants to raise awareness and encourage businesses

to incorporate climate-related risks into their

strategic planning and risk management, and follow

international disclosure guidelines.

This will enhance the Thai capital market’s capacity

for contributing to sustainable development in accordance

with Thailand’s 20-year strategy, and the move

towards the UN SDGs, the SEC said.

8. Viet Nam – Hanoi Stock Exchange (Parent Organization)

• HNX published Guidance on ESG Disclosure for

listed companies in 2016 in accordance with sustainability

reporting requirements by Circular

155/2015/TT-BTC dated October 6, 2015 on guidelines

for information disclosure on securities market.

9. Viet Nam – Ho Chi Minh Stock Exchange (Subsidiary

Organization)

• Circular 155/2015/TT-BTC (dated 06/10/2015) on

guidelines for information disclosure on securities

market.

• The SSC, in cooperation with the IFC, published an

Environmental and Social Disclosure Guide in 2016.

As the sustainability and ESG agenda becomes more

and more mainstream in Asia, business executives

and investment professionals continue to recognize

that ESG issues affect companies’ performances,

compliance to different rules and regulations, and

‘license to operate’.

And as expectations and scrutiny from governments,

regulators, investors, consumers, employees and

other stakeholders continue to grow, taking action in

ESG and Sustainability areas may very well help

Asian companies navigate the rising pressure from

stakeholders and distinguish themselves from less

sustainable competitors.

Mr. Jason JS Lee

Jason JS Lee is a Certified Sustainability Profession

al who specializes in helping companies achieve

their ESG/Sustainability goals and performances in

accordance with GRI, TCFD, GHG Protocols, UNGC,

and UN-SDG standards and frameworks. He is an

active consultant for medium- and listed-companies

for their strategic ESG/Sustainability management

and reporting, and Industry 4.0 Transformation

road-mapping and implementation. He has

just relocated to Thailand, and is a member of the

Malaysia Thai Chamber of Commerce.


By RHB BANK BERHAD

| ECONOMIC REVIEW

Global Economics & Market Strategy

Thailand: Inflation Pressure will Ease in June onwards

♦We maintain our 2021 CPI inflation forecast of 1.3% versus the Bloomberg consensus estimate of 1.2%,

supported by the rising oil prices and low base effect.

♦The May 2021 CPI printed 2.4% YoY versus the Bloomberg consensus estimate of 3.3% and April’s

increase of 3.4%. The moderation is due to the reintroduction of government utility subsidies.

♦We expect Bank of Thailand (BoT) to keep its policy interest rate unchanged at a record low of 0.5% for

the rest of 2021 as the economic recovery remains highly uncertain amidst the resurgence of COVID-19.

Figure 1: BoT to keep Policy Rate unchanged Figure 2: CPI moves in line with higher oil prices

% YoY

4

2

0

-2

CPI

Core CPI

Policy Interest Rate (RHS)

-4

0

2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021

2

1.5

1

0.5

%

% YoY

CPI Retail Oil Price [RHS]

4.0

3.0

2.0

1.0

0.0

-1.0

-2.0

-3.0

-4.0

2017 2018 2019 2020 2021

% YoY

60.0

40.0

20.0

0.0

-20.0

-40.0

-60.0

Source: CEIC, Bureau of Trade and Economic Indices, RHB Economics & Market

Strategy

Economist: Toh Kian Hin, +603 9280 2172, toh.kian.hin@rhbgroup.com

CPI Will Continue to Moderate in June onwards

Source: CEIC, Bureau of Trade and Economic Indices RHB Economics & Market

Strategy

We maintain our 2021 CPI inflation forecast of 1.3% versus the Bloomberg consensus estimate of

1.2%, supported by the rising oil prices and low base effect.

The higher average oil price in 2021 as compared to in 2020 will support the increase in consumer

prices. We expect brent crude oil to average at USD60 per barrel in 2021, which is 38.9% higher than the

average price of brent crude oil recorded in 2020. Recently, the brent crude oil has just surpassed the

USD70 per barrel level, which is higher than the average of USD68.30 per barrel recorded during May 2021.

The sustained strength of the oil prices as well as other commodity prices will keep prices higher.

The low base effect from 2020 will also support the increase in prices. CPI printed a decline of -0.84%

YoY in 2020 amidst the lockdown to contain the spread of COVID-19 infections at the start of the pandemic

last year. While there have been a resurgence of COVID-19 infections in Thailand and other countries in the

region, the rapid vaccination progress in countries such as the United States, United Kingdom, Europe and

China, have helped to drive the recovery of demand. This has led to a higher factory prices in China, which

will support inflation growth this year. In Thailand, we have seen restrictions being reintroduced amidst the

rising COVID-19 cases recently. However, the restrictions imposed are still not as bad as what we have

seen in 2020 and with the country pushing forward with its vaccination plan, we expect this to support the

gradual reopening of the country.

The May 2021 CPI printed 2.4% YoY versus the Bloomberg consensus estimate of 3.3% and April’s

increase of 3.4%. The moderation is due to the reintroduction of government utility subsidies. While CPI

rose for a second consecutive month, the increase was lower than expectations as the government reintroduced

the utility subsidy in May following the resurgence of COVID-19 infections. It was still higher than the

mid-range of the Bank of Thailand’s 1% to 3% inflation target. The energy prices remain as the main driver

of the inflation growth as seen by the 24.79% YoY increase during the month. Aside from that, food prices

also saw an increase of 0.13% YoY in May 2021 although the pace of increase was lower than the 0.4%

recorded in April 2021.

See important disclosures at the end of this report

Market Dateline / PP 19489/05/2019 (035080)


By RHB BANK BERHAD

| ECONOMIC REVIEW


CPI Will Continue to Moderate in June onwards

Core inflation, which excludes food and energy prices increased 0.49% YoY versus the Bloomberg

consensus estimate of 0.50% and April’s increase of 0.3%. Housing and transportation prices were the

key drivers for the increase during the month. However, core CPI has slowed as compared to a month ago,

mainly due to the subsidies that were introduced in May as compared to in April.

The restrictions that were reimposed and the resurgence of COVID-19 infections have also dampened consumer

sentiment, which dragged on prices. Given the uncertainties surrounding the prolonged pandemic

amidst a slow progress in vaccination programme and the new wave of COVID-19 outbreak in the region,

we think that the recovery ahead will remain highly uncertain. Coupled with the fact that the low base effect

from last year is most pronounced in May 2020 with a decline of -3.4%, we believe that CPI will moderate in

June onwards.

We expect Bank of Thailand (BoT) to keep its policy interest rate unchanged at a record low of 0.5%

for the rest of 2021 as the economic recovery remains highly uncertain amidst the resurgence of

COVID-19. The risk of a further rate cut however has increased following the resurgence of COVID-19

cases recently that has led the country to reimpose some form of lockdown. Concern over the inflationary

pressure has ebbed as the May’s data come below consensus estimate.

Disclaimer Economics and Market Strategy

This report is prepared for information purposes only by the Economics and Market Strategy division within

RHB Bank Berhad and/or its subsidiaries, related companies and affiliates, as applicable (“RHB”).

All research is based on material compiled from data considered to be reliable at the time of writing, but RHB

does not make any representation or warranty, express or implied, as to its accuracy, completeness or

correctness.

Neither this report, nor any opinion expressed herein, should be construed as an offer to sell or a solicitation

of an offer to acquire any securities or financial instruments mentioned herein. RHB (including its officers,

directors, associates, connected parties, and/or employees) accepts no liability whatsoever for any direct or

consequential loss arising from the use of this report or its contents. This report may not be reproduced,

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its officers, directors, associates, connected parties, and/or employees) accepts no liability whatsoever for

the actions of third parties in this respect.

Recipients are reminded that the financial circumstances surrounding any company or any market covered

in the reports may change since the time of their publication. The contents of this report are also subject to

change without any notification.

This report does not purport to be comprehensive or to contain all the information that a prospective investor

may need in order to make an investment decision. The recipient of this report is making its own independent

assessment and decisions regarding any securities or financial instruments referenced herein. Any

investment discussed or recommended in this report may be unsuitable for an investor depending on the

investor’s specific investment objectives and financial position. The material in this report is general information

intended for recipients who understand the risks of investing in financial instruments. This report does

not take into account whether an investment or course of action and any associated risks are suitable for the

recipient. Any recommendations contained in this report must therefore not be relied upon as investment

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maker or have assumed an underwriting commitment in securities or financial instruments of such


By RHB BANK BERHAD

| ECONOMIC REVIEW


Disclaimer Economics and Market Strategy

company(ies), may sell them or buy them from customers on a principal basis and may also perform or seek

to perform significant banking, advisory or underwriting services for or relating to such company(ies), as well

as solicit such banking, advisory or other services from any entity mentioned in this research report.

RHB (including its respective directors, associates, connected parties and/or employees) do not accept any

liability, be it directly, indirectly or consequential losses, loss of profits or damages that may arise from any

reliance based on this report or further communication given in relation to this report, including where such

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being perceived as defamatory in nature.

KUALA LUMPUR

RHB Investment BankBhd

Level 3A, Tower One, RHB

Centre Jalan Tun Razak

Kuala Lumpur 50400

Malaysia

Tel : +603 9280 8888

Fax : +603 9200 2216

BANGKOK

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10th Floor, Sathorn Square Office

Tower 98, North Sathorn Road,

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Fax :+66 2088 9799

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District 8 - SCBD Jl. Jendral

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branch)

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#04-00 RHB Bank Building

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See important disclosures at the end of this report

Market Dateline / PP 19489/05/2019 (035080)


By MATRADE Bangkok

| MEMBER’S CORNER

Talking Point For Embassy Monthly Meeting 6/2021

Summary of Malaysia’s Trade Performance (April 2020/2021)

(Based from Department of Statistic, Malaysia and compiled by MATRADE)

• Malaysia’s Global Trade


• Malaysia’s global trade recorded a positive growth of

43.2 percent amounting to RM190.76 billion

(USD46.25 billion) for the period of April 2020/2021.

Total exports increased by 63.0 percent (RM105.6

billion; USD25.61 billion) while imports increased by

24.4 percent (RM85.14 bill; USD20.64 billion) respectively.

(April 2020: RM133.20billion / USD30.58 billion)

Table : Malaysia's External Trade, Annual (From 2015 to April 2021) (World) In RM

Year

TOTAL EXPORTS TOTAL IMPORTS TRADE BALANCE TOTAL TRADE

RM Mil Growth Rate % RM Mil Growth Rate % RM Mil Growth Rate % RM Mil Growth Rate %

2015 777,355.1 0.0 685,778.4 0.0 91,576.6 0.0 1,463,133.5 0.0

2016 786,964.2 1.2 698,818.7 1.9 88,145.5 -3.7 1,485,782.8 1.5

2017 934,926.8 18.8 836,422.2 19.7 98,504.6 11.8 1,771,349.0 19.2

2018 1,003,586.9 7.3 879,804.0 5.2 123,782.9 25.7 1,883,390.9 6.3

2019 995,071.9 -0.8 849,410.8 -3.5 145,661.1 17.7 1,844,482.7 -2.1

• Malaysia’s top trading partner to the world

Country

1. China

2. Singapore

3. USA

4. Japan

5. Taiwan

6. Thailand

Total trade

(RM/USD billion)

RM35.62/ USD8.63

RM23.96/ USD5.81

RM18.26/ USD4.42

RM13.22/ USD3.20

RM9.56/ USD2.31

RM8.12/ USD1.97

Market

Share

18.4%

12.4%

9.7%

7.2%

5.0%

4.6%

As at April 2021

• In term of services sector, Malaysia’s global trade

recorded a negative performance of 34.7%

amounting to RM 231.44 billion (USD57.86 billion)

for the period of January to December 2020. Total

exports decreased by 46.0% (RM91.72 billion;

USD22.93 billion) and imports decreased by

22.7% (RM139.71 billion; USD34.92 billion).

Table : Malaysia's Trade In Services, Annual (From 2014 to December 2020)

2020 980,979.1 -1.4 796,194.1 -6.3 184,785.0 26.9 1,777,173.1 -3.6

2020

(Jan-Apr) 303,470.6 0 270,137.6 0 33,333.0 0 573,608.2 0

2021

(Jan-Apr) 387,810.0 27.8 308,650.8 14.3 79,159.2 137.5 696,460.9 21.4

2021 (Mar) 104,997.6 0 80,794.1 0 24,203.6 0 185,791.7 0

2020 (Apr) 64,786.6 0 68,420.2 0 -3,633.6 0 133,206.9 0

2021 (Apr) 105,619.8 63.0 85,143.7 24.4 20,476.1 663.5 190,763.6 43.2

Table : Malaysia's External Trade, Annual (From 2015 to April 2021)

(World) In USD

Year


USD Mil Growth Rate % USD Mil Growth Rate % USD Mil Growth Rate % USD Mil Growth Rate %

2015 199,158.1 0.0 176,011.0 0.0 23,147.1 0.0 375,169.1 0.0

2016 189,658.7 -4.8 168,429.6 -4.3 21,229.1 -8.3 358,088.3 -4.6

2017 217,722.1 14.8 194,749.6 15.6 22,972.5 8.2 412,471.7 15.2

2018 248,675.4 14.2 217,974.4 11.9 30,701.0 33.6 466,649.8 13.1

2019 240,199.3 -3.4 205,007.6 -5.9 35,191.7 14.6 445,206.9 -4.6

2020 233,930.6 -2.6 189,730.2 -7.5 44,200.4 25.6 423,660.7 -4.8

2020

(Jan-Apr) 72,023.2 0 64,010.8 0 8,012.4 0 136,034.1 0

2021

(Jan-Apr) 95,008.0 31.9 75,621.6 18.1 19,386.4 142.0 170,629.6 25.4

2021 (Mar) 25,550.0 0 19,660.3 0 5,889.7 0 45,210.3 0

2020 (Apr) 14,875.4 0 15,709.6 0 -834.3 0 30,585.0 0

2021 (Apr) 25,610.4 72.2 20,645.4 31.4 4,965.0 695.1 46,255.8 51.2

• Major export products to the world

Products

• Electrical and Electronic Products

• Petroleum Products

• Rubber Products

• Palm oil & palm oil based

agriculture products

• Chemical & Chemical Products

• Major import products from the world

Products

• Electrical and Electronic Products

• Petroleum Products

• Chemicals & Chemical Products

• Machinery, Equipments & Parts

• Manufactures of Metal

Total

(RM bill)

36.79

9.92

7.52

5.94

5.42

Total

(RM bill)

24.42

8.97

8.05

5.89

4.68

Total

(USD bill)

8.92

2.40

1.82

1.44

1.31

As at April 2021

Total

(USD bill)

5.92

2.17

1.95

1.42

1.13

EXPORTS (Credit) IMPORTS (Debit) TOTAL TRADE TRADE BALANCE

Year

Change %

Change %

Change % (Net) (+/-) Change %

Value (RM Mil.) Y-o-Y Value (RM Mil.) Y-o-Y Value (RM Mil.) Y-o-Y (RM Mil.) Y-o-Y

2014 137,618.263 148,324.508 285,942.771 -10,706.245

2015 136,095.456 -1.1 156,727.046 5.7 292,822.502 2.4 -20,631.590 -92.7

2016 147,595.660 8.5 166,513.086 6.2 314,108.746 7.3 -18,917.426 8.3

2017 159,383.933 8.0 182,242.632 9.4 341,626.565 8.8 -22,858.699 -20.8

2018 162,374.512 1.9 179,889.445 -1.3 342,263.957 0.2 -17,514.933 23.4

2019 169,813.598 4.6 180,735.431 0.5 350,549.029 2.4 -10,921.833 37.6

2019

(Jan-Dec) 169,813.598 180,735.431 350,549.029 -10,921.833

2020

(Jan-Dec) 91,728.596 -46.0 139,713.905 -22.7 231,442.501 -34.7 -47,985.301 -339.4

2019 41,651.695 8.1 43,321.800 -2.2 84,973.495 2.6 -1,670.105 71.0

2019 41,388.507 3.7 44,821.064 -1.2 86,209.571 1.1 -3,432.557 37.1

2019 44,261.940 6.0 46,076.444 3.5 90,338.384 4.7 -1,814.504 34.2

2019 42,511.456 0.7 46,516.123 1.7 89,027.579 1.2 -4,004.667 -13.0

2020 33,057.086 -20.6 41,009.798 -5.3 74,066.884 -12.8 -7,952.712 -376.2

2020 18,441.857 -55.4 30,906.572 -31.0 49,348.429 -42.8 -12,464.715 -263.1

•Trade Performance between Malaysia and

ASEAN Country


Monthly Trade Performance for April 2021

Malaysia’s top trading partner in ASEAN

TOTAL

1. Singapore

2. Thailand

3. Indonesia

4. Vietnam

5. Philippines

Market

Share

47.4%

17.5%

15.2%

11.9%

5.4%

Table : Malaysia's Total Trade By ASEAN Country, Annual

(From 2020 - April 2021) – In RM

Country

REPUBLIC OF SINGAPORE

THAILAND

REPUBLIC OF INDONESIA

SOCIALIST REP. OF VIET NAM

PHILIPPINES

BRUNEI DARUSSALAM

UNION OF MYANMAR

CAMBODIA

PEOPLE'S DEM. REP. LAO

Changes

25.0%

26.4%

11.0%

45.6%

21.8%

2020 2021

March P April P March I April I

RM Mil RM Mil RM Mil % Change RM Mil Change (Value) % Change

39,064.1 30,268.9 47,811.3 22.4 49,852.7 19,583.8 64.7

17,276.6 14,439.6 22,985.0 33.0 23,964.9 9,525.2 66.0

6,106.0 5,185.8 8,554.7 40.1 8,126.3 2,940.5 56.7

8,607.8 5,176.3 6,972.9 -19.0 7,398.8 2,222.5 42.9

3,762.1 3,367.1 6,129.4 62.9 5,831.3 2,464.2 73.2

2,174.0 1,373.3 2,478.3 14.0 2,846.0 1,472.7 107.2

430.8 383.6 292.6 -32.1 1,146.5 762.9 198.9

522.8 224.7 188.2 -64.0 374.2 149.5 66.5

175.3 115.7 199.8 13.9 156.0 40.4 34.9

8.7 2.9 10.3 18.9 8.8 5.9 200.8

As at April 2021


By MATRADE Bangkok

| MEMBER’S CORNER


Table: Malaysia's Total Trade By ASEAN Country, Annual(From 2020 – April 2021) – In USD

Country

TOTAL

REPUBLIC OF SINGAPORE

THAILAND

REPUBLIC OF INDONESIA

SOCIALIST REP. OF VIET NAM

PHILIPPINES

BRUNEI DARUSSALAM

UNION OF MYANMAR

CAMBODIA

PEOPLE'S DEM. REP. LAO

2020 2021


USD Mil USD Mil USD Mil % Change USD Mil Change (Value) % Change

9,092.3 6,949.9 11,634.3 28.0 12,088.1 5,138.25 73.9

4,021.2 3,315.4 5,593.1 39.1 5,810.9 2,495.52 75.3

1,421.2 1,190.7 2,081.7 46.5 1,970.4 779.76 65.5

2,003.5 1,188.5 1,696.8 -15.3 1,794.0 605.53 50.9

875.6 773.1 1,491.5 70.3 1,414.0 640.85 82.9

506.0 315.3 603.1 19.2 690.1 374.78 118.9

100.3 88.1 71.2 -29.0 278.0 189.92 215.6

121.7 51.6 45.8 -62.4 90.7 39.15 75.9

40.8 26.6 48.6 19.1 37.8 11.28 42.5

2.0 0.7 2.5 24.3 2.1 1.47 217.7

Trade Performance between Malaysia and Thailand

(Based from Department of Statistic, Malaysia and compiled by

MATRADE)

• As of April 2021, Thailand was ranked as Malaysia’s:-

o 6th largest trading partner,

o 6th largest export destination and

o 8th largest source of import

o 2nd top trading partner among ASEAN Countries

Bilateral Trade between Malaysia – Thailand (April 2020/2021)

Total trade

• As for Malaysia’s trade with Thailand, total trade recorded an

increase of 56.7% mounting to RM8.12 billion (USD1.97 billion); for

the period of April 2020/2021. (April 2020: RM5.18 billion / USD1.19

billion).

• The monthly trade balance between Malaysia and Thailand has

decreased by 20.6% compared to the same period last year amounting

to negative RM973.7 million (negative USD236.1 million); April

2020: RM1.22 billion / USD281.7 million).

• Total trade in 2020 : RM79.41 billion (USD18.94 billion)

Table : Malaysia's External Trade, Annual (From 2015 to April 2021) (THAILAND) (In RM)

Year


RM Mil Growth Rate % RM Mil Growth Rate % RM Mil Growth Rate % RM Mil Growth Rate %

2015 44,387.2 0.0 41,660.1 0.0 2,727.1 0.0 86,047.3 0.0

2016 44,092.4 -0.7 42,328.2 1.6 1,764.2 -35.3 86,420.6 0.4

2017 50,508.0 14.6 48,141.2 13.7 2,366.8 34.2 98,649.3 14.2

2018 57,060.8 13.0 48,623.7 1.0 8,437.1 256.5 105,684.5 7.1

2019 56,318.1 -1.3 44,276.6 -8.9 12,041.6 42.7 100,594.7 -4.8

2020 45,268.8 -19.6 34,148.0 -22.9 11,120.8 -7.6 79,416.8 -21.1

2020

(Jan-Apr) 14,583.3 0 10,532.7 0 4,050.6 0 25,115.9 0

2021

(Jan-Apr) 16,750.4 14.9 14,986.0 42.3 1,764.5 -56.4 31,736.4 26.4

2021 (Mar) 4,376.8 0 4,177.9 0 198.9 0 8,554.7 0

2020 (Apr) 3,206.2 0 1,979.5 0 1,226.7 0 5,185.8 0

2021 (Apr) 4,550.0 41.9 3,576.3 80.7 973.7 -20.6 8,126.3 56.7

Table : Malaysia's External Trade, Annual (From 2015 to April 2021) (THAILAND)(In USD)

Year


USD Mil Growth Rate % USD Mil Growth Rate % USD Mil Growth Rate % USD Mil Growth Rate %

2015 11,388.6 0.0 10,665.0 0.0 723.6 0.0 22,053.6 0.0

2016 10,619.6 -6.8 10,203.4 -4.3 416.2 -42.5 20,823.0 -5.6

2017 11,756.1 10.7 11,206.0 9.8 550.1 32.2 22,962.1 10.3

2018 14,146.3 20.3 12,049.8 7.5 2,096.5 281.1 26,196.1 14.1

2019 13,602.7 -3.8 10,689.7 -11.3 2,913.0 38.9 24,292.4 -7.3

2020 10,792.5 -20.7 8,154.2 -23.7 2,638.3 -9.4 18,946.7 -22.0

2020

(Jan-Apr) 3,465.9 0 2,502.8 0 963.0 0 5,968.7 0

2021

(Jan-Apr) 4,104.5 18.4 3,673.3 46.8 431.2 -55.2 7,777.8 30.3

2021 (Mar) 1,065.0 0 1,016.6 0 48.4 0 2,081.7 0

2020 (Apr) 736.2 0 454.5 0 281.7 0 1,190.7 0

2021 (Apr) 1,103.3 49.9 867.2 90.8 236.1 -16.2 1,970.4 65.5


Exports

• Malaysia’s export to Thailand recorded a positive growth of

41.9% to a total of RM4.55 billion (USD1.10 billion) as compared

to the same period last year (April 2020: RM3.20 billion;

USD736.2 million).

• The increase in exports were contributed by the following :-

Table : Malaysia's Exports to Thailand (April 2021) - In RM

2020 2021

MITI Industry



TOTAL 3,391.6 3,206.2 4,376.8 29.0 4,550.0 1,343.8 41.9

Sawn timber & moulding 20.0 1.9 22.2 11.2 17.1 15.2 799.0

Petroleum condensates and other petroleum oil

0.0 9.9 12.3 0.0 72.6 62.7 633.6

Transport Equipment

126.4 22.8 166.7 31.9 138.1 115.3 506.2

Crude Petroleum

355.1 68.9 218.8 -38.4 275.6 206.7 300.0

Crude Fertilizers and crude minerals 2.8 1.5 5.5 98.0 6.1 4.5 297.7

Metalliferous ores and metal scrap 0.0 6.8 3.2 0.0 25.8 19.0 279.1

Machinery, Equipment & Parts 158.8 67.6 280.4 76.6 236.9 169.3 250.6

Rubber Products

64.8 40.7 104.6 61.4 112.6 72.0 177.0

Petroleum Products

19.7 75.2 50.8 157.7 184.3 109.0 144.9

Beverages & Tobacco

10.5 11.6 34.7 231.0 26.7 15.1 130.2

TOTAL

Table : Malaysia's Exports to Thailand (April 2021) – In USD

MITI Industry

Sawn timber & moulding

Petroleum condensates and other petroleum oil

Transport Equipment

Crude Petroleum

Crude Fertilizers and crude minerals

Metalliferous ores and metal scrap

Machinery, Equipment & Parts

Rubber Products

Petroleum Products

Beverages & Tobacco

2020 2021



789.4 736.2 1,065.0 34.9 1,103.3 367.10 49.9

4.7 0.4 5.4 16.2 4.2 3.72 849.4

0.0 2.3 3.0 0.0 17.6 15.34 674.7

29.4 5.2 40.6 37.9 33.5 28.26 540.2

82.7 15.8 53.2 -35.6 66.8 51.01 322.4

0.6 0.3 1.3 107.0 1.5 1.12 320.0

0.0 1.6 0.8 0.0 6.3 4.69 300.4

37.0 15.5 68.2 84.6 57.4 41.92 270.2

15.1 9.3 25.4 68.7 27.3 17.97 192.5

4.6 17.3 12.4 169.4 44.7 27.41 158.7

2.4 2.7 8.4 246.0 6.5 3.81 143.1

On the export market share, the structure are mainly led by the

Electrical & Electronic products (16.6%; RM1.33 billion;

USD323.5 million) and followed by the other market shares:-

Table : Malaysia Export Market Share to Thailand (April 2021) - In RM

TOTAL

MITI Industry

Electrical & electronic products

Chemicals & chemical products

Other manufactures

Crude Petroleum


Manufactures of Metal

Iron & Steel Products

Petroleum Products

Optical & Scientific Equipment

Transport Equipment

2020 2021



3,391.6 3,206.2 4,376.8 29.0 4,550.0 1,343.8 41.9

1,044.1 1,144.1 1,178.2 12.8 1,334.2 190.1 16.6

420.7 367.5 621.1 47.6 544.7 177.3 48.2

300.2 148.5 377.7 25.8 296.3 147.8 99.6

355.1 68.9 218.8 -38.4 275.6 206.7 300.0

158.8 67.6 280.4 76.6 236.9 169.3 250.6

157.1 105.9 241.6 53.8 215.6 109.7 103.7

192.7 123.3 158.2 -17.9 210.0 86.8 70.4

19.7 75.2 50.8 157.7 184.3 109.0 144.9

91.0 65.3 212.4 133.4 149.0 83.6 128.1

126.4 22.8 166.7 31.9 138.1 115.3 506.2

Table : Malaysia Export Market Share to Thailand (April 2021) - In USD

MITI Industry

TOTAL



Other manufactures

Crude Petroleum



Iron & Steel Products

Petroleum Products

Optical & Scientific Equipment

Transport Equipment

2020 2021



789.4 736.2 1,065.0 34.9 1,103.3 367.10 49.9

243.0 262.7 286.7 18.0 323.5 60.83 23.2

97.9 84.4 151.1 54.3 132.1 47.71 56.5

69.9 34.1 91.9 31.6 71.8 37.76 110.8

82.7 15.8 53.2 -35.6 66.8 51.01 322.4

37.0 15.5 68.2 84.6 57.4 41.92 270.2

36.6 24.3 58.8 60.8 52.3 27.97 115.1

44.9 28.3 38.5 -14.2 50.9 22.62 79.9

4.6 17.3 12.4 169.4 44.7 27.41 158.7

21.2 15.0 51.7 144.0 36.1 21.12 140.9

29.4 5.2 40.6 37.9 33.5 28.26 540.2

o Chemicals & Chemical Products (48.2%; RM544.7 million; USD132.1

million)

o Other Manufactures (99.6%; RM296.3 million; USD71.8 million)

o Crude Petroleum (300.0%; RM275.6 million; USD66.8 million)

o Machinery, Equipment & Parts (250.6%; RM236.9 million; USD57.4

million)

o Manufactures of Metal (103.7%; RM215.6 million; USD52.3 million)

o Iron & Steel Products (70.4%; RM210.0 million; USD50.9 million)

o Petroleum Products (144.9%; RM184.3 million; USD44.7 million)

o Optical & Scientific Equipment (128.1%; RM149.0 million; USD36.1

million)

o Transport Equipment (506.2%; RM138.1 million; USD33.5 million)


By MATRADE Bangkok

| MEMBER’S CORNER


Imports

• Malaysia’s import from Thailand increased about 80.7

percent to RM3.57 billion (USD867.2 million) from

RM1.97 billion (USD454.5 million) for the same period last

year.

TOTAL

MITI Industry


Transport Equipment


Natural rubber


Processed food

Rubber Products

Other agricultures

Other manufactures


TOTAL

MITI Industry


Transport Equipment


Natural rubber


Processed food

Rubber Products

Other agricultures

Other manufactures


Table : Malaysia Imports From Thailand (April 2021) - In RM

2020 2021



2,714.3 1,979.5 4,177.9 53.9 3,576.3 1,596.8 80.7

592.5 551.7 839.9 41.7 741.2 189.5 34.3

284.9 132.7 577.4 102.7 479.7 347.0 261.5

297.3 215.1 486.5 63.6 446.8 231.7 107.7

234.3 208.5 397.9 69.8 363.2 154.7 74.2

177.9 128.8 247.5 39.1 232.2 103.4 80.3

181.5 167.4 214.1 18.0 191.2 23.8 14.2

95.5 60.6 216.6 126.8 187.8 127.3 210.1

107.7 75.8 179.0 66.2 134.9 59.1 78.0

127.3 79.8 115.3 -9.4 107.7 27.8 34.9

68.9 53.9 103.4 50.0 91.7 37.8 70.1

Table : Malaysia Imports From Thailand (April 2021) - In USD

2020 2021



631.8 454.5 1,016.6 60.9 867.2 412.66 90.8

137.9 126.7 204.4 48.2 179.7 53.05 41.9

66.3 30.5 140.5 111.9 116.3 85.84 281.8

69.2 49.4 118.4 71.0 108.3 58.95 119.3

54.5 47.9 96.8 77.6 88.1 40.19 84.0

41.4 29.6 60.2 45.4 56.3 26.73 90.4

42.2 38.4 52.1 23.3 46.4 7.92 20.6

22.2 13.9 52.7 137.1 45.5 31.64 227.4

25.1 17.4 43.6 73.7 32.7 15.31 88.0

29.6 18.3 28.1 -5.3 26.1 7.78 42.4

16.0 12.4 25.2 56.9 22.2 9.86 79.7

• Total import in 2020 : RM34.14 billion (USD8.15 billion)

• The import structures are mainly focused on;

o Electrical and electronic products (34.3%; RM741.2 million;

USD179.7 million)

o Transport Equipment (261.5%; RM479.7 million; USD116.3

million)

o Chemicals & chemical products (107.7%; RM446.8 million;

USD108.3 million)

o Natural Rubber (74.2%; RM363.2 million; USD88.1 million)

o Machinery, Equipment & Parts (80.3%; RM232.2 million;

USD56.3 million)

• Imports are mainly due to the market demand from our Malaysian

companies in the E&E, Transport Equipments, Chemicals

and Natural Rubber.

• The demand for automotive sector has also declined due to

the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Despite this, Thailand

remains as an important player in Electrical and Electronics

related products and Automotive in the ASEAN region.

Thailand Trade Statistics (April 2020/2021)

a) Thailand To The World

• Thailand’s overall trade performance had a positive growth of

20.8% with a value of USD42.67 billion for the period of April

2021 compared to similar period in 2020. Thailand’s trade

performance is as follow:-

Description 2019 2020

2020

2021 Diff

(April) (April) 2021 / 2020

Trade Value

482,884.4 438,460.3 35,319.04 42,676.1 20.8%

Export

246,244.5 231,468.4 18,949.43 21,429.3 13.1%

Import

236,639.9 206,991.9 16,369.61 21,246.8 29.8%

Balance

9,604.6 24,476.5 2,579.82 182.5


• Thailand’s exports increased to USD21.42 billion for the

period of April 2021 which is 13.1% higher compared to

similar period in 2020. The top 5 exported products are :-

Products

• Motor cars, parts and accessories

• Automatic data processing machines

• Rubber products

• Polymers of ethylene, propylene

• Chemical Products

USD

(Mill)

2,046.8

1,646.0

1,214.5

915.3

792.5

As at April 2021

• The increase in the value of imports were at USD21.24

billion for April 2021 which was 29.8% higher compared to

the similar period in 2020. The top 5 imported products are

:-

• Crude Oil

• Chemicals

• Machinery and parts

• Electrical machinery and parts

• Iron and steel products

Products

USD

(Mill)

1,951.1

1,695.7

1,678.3

1,519.9

1,371.3

As at April 2021

b) Thailand’s top trading partner to the world consist of

China, Japan, USA, Malaysia, and Vietnam with Malaysia

being at number 4 from the top 5 list as follow:-

Country

1. China

2. Japan

3. USA

4. Malaysia

5.Vietnam

Trade Value

(USD Mill)

31,467

20,236

17,443

7,751

6,624

Export

(USD Mill)

11,267

8,352

12,769

3,878

4,314

Import

(USD Mill)

20,200

11,884

4,674

3,873

2,310

As at January - April 2021

c) Thailand to Malaysia

• Thailand’s overall trade to Malaysia recorded a positive

growth of 88.41% with a value of USD2.11 billion for the

period of April 2021 compared to similar period in 2020.

Thailand’s trade with Malaysia is as follow:-

Description 2019 2020

Trade Value

Export

Import

Balance

2020

(April)

2021

(April)

Diff

2021 / 2020

23,317.6 18,946.0 1,123.6 2,116.93 88.41%

10,459.3 8,734.5 533.4 1,021.60 91.54%

12,858.3 10,211.5 590.2 1,095.30 85.58%

-2,399.1 -1,477.0 -56.9 -73.73

USD Mill

• Thailand’s trade with Malaysia recorded an increase in

exports amounting to USD1.02 billion for the period of

April 2021 which is 91.54% higher compared to similar

period in 2020. The exports was contributed by the following

top 5 products :-

Products

• Refine Fuels

• Motor Cars, Parts & Accessories

• Rubber

• Automatic data processing machines

• Chemical products

USD

(Mill)

112.6

91.5

83.7

75.0

67.7

As at April 2021

• There was an increase in the value of imports which was

at USD1.09 billion for April 2021 which was 85.58% higher

compared to similar period in 2020. The top 5 imported

products are :-

Products

• Crude Oil

• Chemicals

• Computers, parts and accessories

• Electrical machinery and parts

• Electronic integrated circuits

USD

(Mill)

151.6

124.8

119.5

70.4

62.5

As at April 2021

USD Mill


By Tilleke & Gibbins

| LEGAL BRIEF

Thailand Changes its

Statutory Interest Rate

Thailand has made significant changes to its statutory

interest rate framework for the first time in almost a century.

Since 1925, the statutory interest rate codified in

Thailand’s Civil and Commercial Code (the CCC) has

remained at 7.5% per year. But with Covid-19 having

an unprecedented impact on the Thai economy, the

Thai Government, via emergency decree, has reduced

the statutory rate. While the decree is largely aimed at

providing relief to hard-hit SMEs and individual debtors,

the amendments have broader implications for doing

business in Thailand.

Main Changes

The new interest rate revisions are contained within the

Emergency Decree Amending the Civil and Commercial

Code B.E. 2564 (2021) (the Emergency Decree),

which was published in the Government Gazette on

April 10, 2021 and came into effect on April 11, 2021.

The Emergency Decree amends Sections 7 and 224 of

the CCC, which stated the previous statutory interest

rate of 7.5% per year.

The Emergency Decree makes three major changes.

The first involves a reduction of the statutory interest

rate from 7.5% per year to 3% per year in Section 7.

The new 3% annual rate is subject to review every

three years by the Ministry of Finance. The interest rate

is subject to further change later by a royal decree.

The second change concerns money debts under Section

224 of the CCC. The previous version of Section

224 stated, among other things, that a money debt

based on a default bears interest of 7.5% per year.

Under the Emergency Decree, the new actual statutory

default interest rate is the statutory interest rate stated

in Section 7 with an additional rate of 2% per year.

The result is a 5% annual statutory default interest

rate. Since the statutory default interest rate is based

in part on the Section 7 rate, any future change to the

Section 7 rate will also affect the statutory default

interest rate.

The third change relates to installment payments,

and is made pursuant to a newly enacted Section

224/1 of the CCC. The Emergency Decree provides

that the default interest rate can only be applied to

the defaulted installment amount – not the unpaid

principal. This is markedly different from the previous

practice of charging default interest on the unpaid

principal, in addition to the defaulted installment payment

amount. Moreover, under the new Section

224/1, a contract clause that applies the default interest

rate to the non-defaulted principal is null and void.

As such, contract parties can no longer agree on

charging a default interest rate on the full unpaid principal.

Implications

The new changes to the statutory interest rate framework

affect financial loans, judgment debts (e.g. compensation

for tort liability), and different types of commercial

contracts. However, under the Emergency

Decree, if an agreement already specifies the interest

rate or a default interest rate, or if another specific

law provides otherwise, the existing agreement and

law would prevail. In other words, the parties can

“contract out” of the statutory rate. However, parties

cannot opt to apply any default interest rate on total

unpaid debts, regardless of any default. The new

amended statutory interest rate framework applies to

defaults and debts that are due on or after April 11,

2021.

Tilleke & Gibbins is continuing to monitor the

latest legal developments regarding the impact of

the COVID-19 pandemic. For more details, please

contact Tilleke & Gibbins at bangkok@tilleke.com

Thawat Damsa-ard

Partner

thawat.d@tilleke.com

Suruswadee Jaimsuwan

Counsel

suruswadee.j@tilleke.com

John Frangos

Partner and Deputy Director, Dispute Resolution

john.f@tilleke.com


By Tilleke & Gibbins

| LEGAL BRIEF

Thailand Introduces

Additional Securities

Business Licenses

On March 3, 2021, two new types of license

became available to operators of securities

businesses in Thailand, following the enactment

of an amendment to the ministerial regulation

regarding securities business licensing in

Thailand, which was announced by the Ministry

of Finance four months prior.

While existing license types are broader, and

subject to high-level conditions and compliance

levels, the two new licenses are more

specific and may be more suitable and cost-effective

for operators whose activities are limited

to a narrower scope of securities business.

The details of the two new license types—the

Type E Securities Business License and the

Private Fund Management License—are as

follows:

Type E Securities Business License

A Type E Securities Business License covers

the following business activities:

• Equity brokerage

• Equity dealing

• Equity underwriting

• Investment advisory service

• Securities borrowing and lending

Operators eligible to apply for a Type E License

include:

• securities companies;

• commercial banks;

• life insurance companies;

• special-purpose financial institutions; and,

• Thai incorporated companies.

Private Fund Management License

Previously, business operators who only

intended to conduct private fund management

business had to apply for a Type C license—a

broad category of license covering mutual fund

management, private fund management,

brokerage for investment units or trust certificates,

and so on. The new Private Fund Management

License provides a more targeted

alternative to the Type C license, which is subject

to higher license fees and more comprehensive

compliance requirements.

New applicants for a securities business

license may now specify one of the additional

license types when applying to the Ministry of

Finance through the SEC. Holders of existing

securities business licenses can also apply to

change to one of the new license types.

Kobkit Thienpreecha

Partner and Director, Corporate and

Commercial

kobkit.t@tilleke.com

Thammapas Chanpanich

Attorney-at-Law

thammapas.c@tilleke.com


By Samitivej Hospitals

| HEALTH CORNER

Rainy Season and COVID-19

HIGHLIGHTS:

• Every year during the rainy season, Thailand encounters

an influenza outbreak. During the 2019 influenza

outbreak, there were a total of 390,733 patients and 27

deaths from the disease. The groups experiencing the

highest illness rates were small and school-aged

children.

• During the rainy season, it is important that all of us

strictly adhere to preventive steps, including frequent

hand-washing, wearing a mask, eating hot foods , using

personal utensils, keeping a distance of at least 1-2

meters from other people, and avoiding crowded areas

that are not well-ventilated in order to stop the spread of

disease.

Can “rain” cause an increase in COVID-19 transmission?

There are a number of studies that provide conflicting

answers to this question. Some research suggests that

high humidity slows the spread of the new coronavirus,

while other research states that high humidity is more

conducive to the spread of the virus. There are even a few

studies suggesting that high humidity levels can cause a

severe spread of the pandemic. There are a number of

case studies to support the position that humidity does

play a key role in the spread of seasonal diseases. One of

these reports, led by Jin Bu of the Chinese Academy of

Medical Sciences, found that the virus seemed to spread

more easily in 75% relative humidity with precipitation less

than 30 mm per month. This research, however, conflicts

with all other studies on the subject.

Dr. Alan Evangelista, Professor of Microbiology and Virology

at St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children in Philadelphia,

USA, has been studying coronaviruses and influenza

particles for many years. Dr. Alan’s research indicates

that as humidity increases, the viral droplet size becomes

larger and rises from the body into the air more quickly. In

contrast, when humidity is low, there is more rapid evaporation

of respiratory droplets and they remain airborne for

longer periods, thus increasing the chance of transmission.

The fact remains, however, that every year during the

rainy season, Thailand encounters an influenza outbreak

The Department of Disease Control concluded in its summary

of the 2019 influenza outbreak that there were a.

total of 390,733 patients and 27 deaths. The groups

experiencing the highest illness rates were small and

school-aged children. The key contributing factors to

the outbreak were found to be increased humidity and

cooler temperatures, which allowed the virus to survive

for longer periods of time.

Prof. Yong Poovorawan, MD., Head of the Center of

Excellence in Clinical Virology at the Faculty of Medicine,

Chulalongkorn University, issued a warning to the

public about the COVID-19 pandemic after the Thai

Meteorological Department announced that as of May

18, Thailand had entered the 2020 rainy season. He

stated that although at this time only a small number of

infected persons have been found in Thailand, most of

whom were in state quarantine having recently returned

from foreign countries, the more than 100,000 new

COVID-19 cases per day worldwide clearly show that

this disease is difficult to control and more time is

needed to develop a vaccine that can put a stop to its

spread.

Protecting Yourself from Influenza and COVID-19

Protection from both of these viruses is possible using

similar methods. If everyone takes stringent measures

and works hard to prevent influenza, then the number of

people infected with COVID-19 will also be reduced. On

the other hand, because during the rainy season the

risk of infection by various flu viruses is higher, the risk

of COVID-19 transmission is higher as well. Steps that

we must continue to strictly adhere to include frequent

hand-washing, wearing a mask, eating hot foods, using

personal utensils, keeping a distance of at least 1-2

meters from other people, and avoiding crowded areas

that are not well-ventilated. Extra cloth face masks

should be kept on hand. If a mask gets wet in the rain it

should be changed immediately, as wet masks cannot

fully protect an individual from germs and bacteria.

When a person coughs or sneezes, small respiratory

droplets are ejected into the air. If that person is sick,

then viral particles will be contained in those droplets.

We can conclude that regardless of whether the climate

is humid or dry, we all need to adapt to this new way of

life and strictly follow the principles of self-protection

from both the influenza virus and the COVID-19 virus,

as these diseases are easily transmitted from person to

person.

Dealing with COVID-19 During the Rainy Season

• Wash hands frequently with soap and clean water or

an alcohol-based gel.

• Wear a mask every time you leave the house.

• Avoid touching your face, eyes, nose, and mouth with

your hands.

• Stick to eating freshly cooked foods and avoid raw

foods including meat and eggs.

• Maintain a safe distance of at least 1-2 meters from

other people.

• Avoid going to crowded places or areas that are not

well-ventilated.

Author

On-Umar Banpamai, M.D., Infectious

Disease Specialist


| TRADE EVENTS Thailand & Malaysia

Thailand 2021

July

01 - 07 July 2021

Thai Teaw Thai event 59

Venue: Bangkok International Trade & Exhibition

Centre (BITEC), Bangkok

www.pkexhibition.com

15 - 18 July 2021

THAILAND COFFEE, TEA & DRINKS 2021

Venue: EH 106, Bangkok International Trade &

Exhibition Centre (BITEC), Bangkok

https://www.thailandcoffee.net/

24 July- 1 Aug 2021

Furniture Show 2021

Venue :IMPACT Muang Thong Thani - IMPACT

Arena and IMPACT Exhibition

and Convention Center Nonthaburi, Thailand

https://www.worldfair.co.th/

August

25 - 27 August 2021

TILOG – LOGISTIX 2021

Venue: Bangkok International Trade & Exhibition

Centre (BITEC), Bangkok

https://www.tilog-logistix.com/

25 - 27 August 2021

FUTURE ENERGY ASIA 2021

Venue: Bhiraj Hall 1 - 3, Bangkok International

Trade & Exhibition Centre (BITEC), Bangkok

https://www.futureenergyasia.com/

26 - 29 August 2021

THAI INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL FAIR 2021

Venue :IMPACT Muang Thong Thani - IMPACT

Arena and IMPACT Exhibition and Convention

Center Nonthaburi, Thailand

http://ttaa.or.th/th/

September

01 - 03 September

Thailand LAB INTERNATIONAL – Bio

Asia Pacific

Venue :Bangkok International Trade &

Exhibition Centre ( BITEC), Bangkok

https://www.thailandlab.com/

15 - 17 September 2021

FOOD INGREDIENT 2021

Venue : Bangkok International Trade &


https://www.figlobal.com/


ProPak Asia

Venue: Bangkok International Trade &


https://www.propakasia.com/

Malaysia 2021

July August September

15 - 18 July 2021

M'SIA-PLAS - Malaysia International Plastic

Mould & Tools Exhibition 2021

Venue:Malaysia International Trade & Exhibition

Centre - MITEC Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

https://esevent.com.my/

16 - 19 July 2021

MIJF - Malaysia Int'l Jewellery Fair 2021

Venue: Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

http://www.elite.com.my/

28- 30 Jul 2021

MIFB - Malaysian International Food And

Beverage Trade Fair 2021

Venue :Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre - KLCC

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

https://sphereexhibits.com.my/

17 - 19 August 2021

Semicon Southeast Asia 2021

Venue:SETIA SPICE Arena

Penang, Malaysia

https://www.semiconsea.org/

16 - 18 August 2021

SMART NATION 2021 EXPO

Venue: Malaysia International Trade & Exhibition

Centre - MITEC Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

https://www.ambtarsus.com/

24- 26 August 2021

Livestock Malaysia 2021

Venue :Malacca International Trade Centre -

MITC Malacca, Malaysia

https://www.livestockmalaysia.com/


ENGINEER - Malaysia Engineering Exhibition

and Conference

Venue: KLCC Convention Centre, Kuala Lumpur,

Malaysia

https://cisnetwork.com/


AGRI MALAYSIA

Venue: Setia City Convention Centre, Shah Alam,

Malaysia

https://agrimalaysia.com/EN/home


MTCC FIRST DIGITAL

NEWSLETTER

ISSUE 2/2021

MTCC NEWS 2/21

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