STREET WISE
Calm before the storm
It is prestigious to be a corporate chairman, particularly if your company is listed. In return for his service, mainly to shape general business policy, a chairperson is entitled to spectacular benefits.
It was reported that chairpersons of an aviation company are entitled to great imported wine, bought in bulk for its flights. Retired soldier Montree Supaporn, newly appointed chairman of TOT, is the latest to experience the prestige of being an important man. On Wednesday night, when TOT hosted a New Year party, Montri also celebrated his birthday, which was on December 9. Notably, the party took place at his six-rai house in Pak Kret. We have been informed that prior to the big day, a number of TOT staff were transported to the house to clean up the surrounding grounds before the celeb guests showed up. Indeed, the venue needed to be meticulously prepped, given that all the players in the telecom industry were invited along with their family members - everyone except the six members of the National Telecommunication Commission (NTC). As such, appearing at the event were ICT Minister Sitthichai Pokaiyaudom, Total Access Communication CEO Sigve Brekke, Advanced Info Service CEO Somprasong Boonyachai, and True Move CEO Supachai Chearavanont. All guests were offered special treats: a dance, a singing round, games and plenty of food. We were informed that the party was joyous, just what Montri had expected. It was his intention to use the party to reinstate harmony among all players in the telecom industry. It is well known that all were in the toughest competition, with so many fierce arguments about this and that. Sitthichai. on stage to bid birthday blessings for Montri, was also surprised at the harmonious environment, as the host and his guests did not bring up any arguments during the party. But it is dubious whether the brief truce will mean permanent peace among them. As we know, after the party, TOT resumed its fight against private operators who want to use its network. It is also doubtful whether the party will solve all of the conflicts when none of the NTC members - who set the rules that can please or displease the players - were invited to the event. But it might be too ambitious to hope that any one party can clear all conflicts. Whatever, Montri has done what he is paid to do: he had a chance to meet all the business players who were glad to show up and wish him birthday blessings. achara_d@nationgroup.com
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