Bangkok: KTC or Krungthai Card Public Company Limited organized a seminar titled ‘Beyond Rainbow because equality is not limited to gender’ aimed at driving the pink economy and fostering equality in society across all dimensions.

According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Duangporn Prom-on, Managing Director of JobsDB (Thailand) Co., Ltd., addressed the challenges faced by the global labor market, including Thailand. She emphasized that technology partially replacing labor is not the only challenge; there is also significant inequality in access to opportunities. She pointed out that diverse groups like LGBTQ+, the elderly, and the disabled are often overlooked. Many organizations lack clear communication regarding Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) policies. JobsDB advises that changes should begin with the recruitment process, recommending the use of neutral language and avoiding irrelevant questions to abilities, supported by tools to reduce unconscious biases.

Ms. Piyasuda Kwannonsee, KTC’s Chief Human Resources Officer, highlighted the company’s commitment to both physical and mental health. KTC aims to create a Trusted Organization culture, encouraging new employees to express their opinions through an initiative called Junior Speak First. This culture supports inclusivity in learning and training opportunities, irrespective of level, gender, or age, and promotes women to leadership roles within the organization.

Assoc. Prof. Roj Kun-anek from Thammasat University stressed the importance of understanding diversity from an educational standpoint. He advocated for DEI approaches to enhance understanding and awareness, starting in classrooms to prepare individuals for real-world interactions and workplace dynamics.

Mr. Kunakorn Wanichwirun, an independent scholar, highlighted Thailand’s potential to become a hub for the Pink Economy, particularly in the service sector catering to LGBTQ+ consumers. He emphasized the need for governmental collaboration with the private sector to ensure safety, facilitation, and incentives for LGBTQ+ friendly businesses to thrive in Thailand. This collaboration is crucial to establishing Thailand as a regional center for diversity and inclusivity.