Matana's early retirement

"What I like to do most is to practise Dhama, and also play golf," Matana said about her plans following the early retirement.

Matana, 58, said she was approached by many friends to assist with their businesses, but her intention was not to work any more as a full-time employee. She would also like to write a book, but said she was not sure whether she would be patient enough to finish it.

Matana is expected to be succeeded by Venus Asavasitthithavorn, 43.

disappointing demographics

Leading Thai strategist Suvit Maesincee, who co-authored a few books with renowned marketing guru Philip Kotler, said he was disappointed that the current government could not see how the changing demographic would have a severe impact on Thailand's competitiveness in the future. Compared to 2000, when the ratio of young workers versus elderly citizen was 7:1, this proportion is projected to change to 4:1 in the next 12 years, and to 2:1 in 2050 - meaning every two youths will have to support one senior citizen.

"If our young workers are productive, it will still be all right. But as our education system is the failure that it is, how will it be possible [for the two youths to support one senior]?" he said.

Suvit said Thailand is probably the only country that imports unskilled labour while "exporting" skilled workers. Suvit was speaking at the NIDA Business School's recent launch of its NIDA Centre for Enhancing Competitiveness.

New chu kai  exec. director 

Chu Kai chief financial officer Chamnan Ngampojanavong has been appointed executive director of the company, succeeding Khan Akaworawit who resigned. Chu Kai is a heavy-machinery distributor.

top tipco revelations

Tipco Foods (Thailand) managing director Viwat Limsakdakul will unveil the success story behind Tipco being the No1 premium fruit-juice brand in the country at the "Good Morning Guru" forum organised by Thailand Management Association on July 9 at DC Consultants' conference hall, Amarin Plaza. 

outstanding alumni

Export-Import Bank of Thailand president Apichai Boontherawara was awarded 2008 Outstanding Alumni of Thammasat University (TU) on the occasion of the 74th anniversary of TU. The award was presented by TU council president Sumet Tantivejkul. Apichai was honoured for his outstanding contributions, with integrity, honesty and ethics, to the university and society, TU said in a statement.

pichaya@nationgroup.com