Friday, June 27, 2025

The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) and the PATA Thailand Chapter and Centara Grand at CentralWorld sponsored a special reception in Bangkok as a way of celebrating two of Thailand’s excellent tourism leaders. The reception was a way of celebrating Chiruit Isarangkun Na Ayuthaya, whose presidency of the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) was ending, as well as marking a farewell as Siripakorn Cheawsamoot assumed office as Director General of the Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration (DASTA). The reception took place at the upscale CRU Champagne Bar and had a spectacular view of the city skyline, a perfect backdrop against which this reception was set.

The evening event was more than just a ceremonial affair—it marked a key moment of transition for the tourism sector in Thailand. While honoring Chiruit Isarangkun Na Ayuthaya for his years of dedicated leadership at TCEB, the gathering also celebrated the appointment of Siripakorn Cheawsamoot to lead DASTA. As Thailand continues to strengthen its position as a leading global destination, this event underscored the importance of strategic leadership in sustaining the momentum of its tourism industry.

Peter Semone, Chair of PATA, expressed his admiration for both individuals during his speech. He acknowledged Chiruit’s immense impact on the tourism landscape, particularly his role in positioning Thailand as a premier MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) destination. Simultaneously, Semone congratulated Siripakorn on his appointment, reaffirming PATA’s commitment to supporting DASTA’s sustainable tourism initiatives in the coming years.

The dual-purpose nature of the event, which involved both farewells and new beginnings, was central to the gathering’s spirit. It represented the continuity of a shared vision for Thailand’s tourism future. This unique approach highlighted the significance of personal connections and relationships in shaping the future trajectory of the sector.

For nearly a decade, Chiruit Isarangkun Na Ayuthaya played an instrumental role in transforming Thailand’s tourism and MICE industry. His leadership at TCEB not only boosted Thailand’s appeal as a global event hub but also elevated the quality of services offered, making the country a top contender in the international tourism market. TCEB’s collaborations with PATA included organizing prestigious events such as the PATA Travel Mart and Destination Marketing Forums, which have been critical in shaping global tourism dialogue and fostering international partnerships.

With Siripakorn Cheawsamoot’s appointment, the focus of Thailand’s tourism policy is expected to intensify on sustainable tourism. His previous work as Deputy Governor for International Marketing for Europe, America, the Middle East, and Africa at the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) was marked by a strong commitment to sustainable tourism practices. Siripakorn’s leadership at DASTA will likely further reinforce these efforts, aligning with PATA’s vision for responsible and environmentally conscious travel experiences.

Under Siripakorn’s leadership, DASTA is set to focus on initiatives that balance the growth of tourism with community development and environmental sustainability. This is a key area of interest for PATA, which has long advocated for sustainable tourism practices in Asia-Pacific. Siripakorn’s deep understanding of both the Thai tourism landscape and global sustainability trends is expected to drive positive change within the sector.

The event also highlighted the vital role of collaboration in driving Thailand’s tourism agenda forward. Ben Montgomery, Corporate Ambassador for Centara Hotels & Resorts and Chairperson of the PATA Thailand Chapter, emphasized the importance of forging lasting connections within the tourism community. He remarked that PATA has always been about connecting industry leaders and stakeholders, ensuring that Thailand’s tourism growth continues through strong partnerships. The evening also saw key figures such as Thapanee Kiatphaibool, Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), and Supawan Teerarat, President of the National Food Institute, representing important sectors of the country’s tourism ecosystem.

The involvement of these industry veterans reinforced the idea that continued success depends on collaboration across various sectors. The event served as a reminder of the importance of maintaining strong relationships and sharing knowledge to ensure that Thailand’s tourism sector remains resilient and adaptable.

As Thailand continues its post-pandemic recovery, its tourism industry faces both new opportunities and challenges. The shifting preferences of travelers toward more responsible and meaningful travel experiences have placed greater emphasis on sustainability. PATA’s ongoing collaborations with organizations like TCEB and DASTA will be crucial in ensuring that Thailand remains competitive while also staying true to its cultural and environmental values.

The evening in Bangkok, which brought together past, present, and future leaders of Thailand’s tourism industry, not only celebrated the contributions of two key figures but also highlighted the collective responsibility of the tourism community to chart a path toward a more sustainable future. The event emphasized the importance of strategic continuity—where long-term goals are built on the foundation of relationships and shared values.

As an association that connects tourism professionals across the Pacific Asia region, PATA plays a pivotal role in facilitating discussions about the future of tourism. By celebrating leadership transitions, PATA reinforces its commitment to fostering long-term partnerships that are essential for achieving sustainable growth in the tourism sector. The association’s dedication to aligning local goals with global best practices will continue to shape the tourism landscape in Asia-Pacific.

The gathering in Bangkok was not merely a celebration of individual achievements but also a statement of intent for the future of Thailand’s tourism industry. With leadership transitions and new appointments, the tourism community remains united in its efforts to ensure that Thailand’s tourism sector remains a vibrant and sustainable part of the global travel landscape.

In conclusion, this PATA event in Bangkok was a testament to the strength and vitality of Thailand’s tourism sector. It underlined the value of leadership changes, sustainable growth, and collaboration’s role toward long-term prosperity. The bonds built and re-established during this event will inevitably help chart Thailand’s tourism sector into its next phase.

References: Thailand Convention And Exhibition Bureau (TCEB), Designated Areas For Sustainable Tourism Administration (DASTA), Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), PATA Official Page

Image Credit: PATA Official Page

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