The Asia-Pacific Development Center on Disability (APCD) was honored to welcome Her Royal Highness Princess Anisha Rosnah binti Adam of Brunei Darussalam and Datin Paduka Seri Dayang Hajah Mariam binti Haji Abdul Aziz for a special visit to the APCD Administrative Building on 9 December 2025, from 10:00 to 11:00 hrs.

The distinguished guests were warmly received by Mr. Piroon Laismit, Executive Director of The Foundation of Asia-Pacific Development Center on Disability, who delivered welcome remarks and provided an introduction to the APCD Foundation's mission and achievements in promoting disability inclusion across the Asia-Pacific region.

The visit was further graced by the presence of Her Excellency Boosara Kanchanalai, ex-Ambassador of Thailand to Brunei Darussalam, along with Ms. Siriporn Rojanasukranjana, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities.

Distinguished guests from THAI YAMAZAKI CO., LTD. also joined the occasion, including Mr. Masami Akiyama (President), Mr. Surachai Kopatta (Executive General Manager), and Mr. Yuichi Ashizawa (General Manager), reflecting the strong partnership between APCD and the private sector in advancing opportunities for persons with disabilities.

Program Highlights

The visit featured several meaningful activities:

Welcome and Presentation: Mr. Piroon Laismit presented welcome remarks, introduced APCD's work, and presented commemorative souvenirs to the royal guests, followed by a group photograph with the APCD team.

Interactive Baking Workshop: The highlight of the visit was an interactive baking workshop at the Yamazaki Bakery Training Room in the APCD 60+ Plus Bakery & Chocolate Café. Her Royal Highness and guests participated in hands-on activities led by APCD staff with disabilities, demonstrating the center's commitment to skills development and employment opportunities for persons with disabilities.

The visit concluded with a group photograph with APCD staff with disabilities, celebrating the spirit of inclusion and empowerment that defines APCD's mission.

This royal visit underscores the importance of international cooperation and support in advancing disability rights and creating inclusive societies throughout the Asia-Pacific region.

Bangkok, Thailand — Representatives from across the Asia-Pacific region and beyond convened at the United Nations Conference Centre (UNCC) in Bangkok for the Seventh Asia-Pacific Directors General Forum for South-South and Triangular Cooperation, jointly organized by the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) and the Thailand International Cooperation Agency (TICA). The Forum serves as a vital platform bringing together Directors General, senior officials, and heads of agencies responsible for South-South and triangular cooperation to advance inclusive and sustainable development in the region.

Delegations from ESCAP Member States, Permanent Observers, and development partners participated, including high-level officials from Azerbaijan, Bangladesh, China, Fiji, France, India, Indonesia, Japan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Maldives, Mongolia, Nepal, the Philippines, the Republic of Korea, Thailand, Türkiye, the United Kingdom, Vanuatu, and Viet Nam. Thailand’s delegation included key representatives from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, TICA, the National Health Commission Office (NHCO), and other agencies. Mr. Piroon Laismit, Executive Director of the Asia-Pacific Development Center on Disability (APCD), participated as an invited speaker.

One of the key highlights was Session 2, which focused on advancing sustainable and inclusive development through South-South and triangular cooperation. This session aimed to address the interconnected challenges and opportunities within inclusive development to leave no one behind. The discussion emphasized cross-cutting issues such as disability inclusion, gender equality, youth empowerment, and the needs of an aging society, and explored how collaboration among diverse stakeholders can drive progress in these areas.

By examining scalable models, inclusive policies, innovative partnerships, and emerging multidimensional solutions, the session encouraged the sharing of adaptable strategies that can be replicated across different country contexts.

Guiding questions included:

What are the key barriers to achieving inclusive and sustainable development in the Asia-Pacific region, and how can South-South and triangular cooperation help overcome them?

How can development cooperation agencies better integrate inclusion—social, economic, and environmental—into their South-South cooperation strategies and programmes?

What successful models or practices have emerged from South-South cooperation that demonstrate scalable and replicable approaches to inclusive development?

Session Structure

Overview Presentation (15 min.)
Mr. Srinivas Tata, Director, Social Development Division (SDD), ESCAP

Moderated Panel Discussion (90 min.)
Moderator: Ms. Arunee Hiam, Deputy Director-General, Thailand International Cooperation Agency (TICA)

Panel Speakers

Mr. Yoshida Masahiro, Senior Vice President, Japan International Cooperation Organization (JICA)

Mr. Piroon Laismit, Executive Director, Asia-Pacific Development Center on Disability (APCD)

Mr. Dursun Ali Yaşacan, Director of East and South Asia, Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TİKA)

Ms. Rina Setyawati, Director for International Development Cooperation, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Indonesia

Ms. Tipicha Posayanonda, Deputy Secretary-General, National Health Commission Office (NHCO), Thailand

The Forum underscored the essential role of South-South and triangular cooperation in tackling shared development challenges and promoting inclusive societies across Asia and the Pacific. APCD’s participation reflects its continued commitment to advancing disability-inclusive development and fostering regional collaboration for a more equitable and resilient future.

Moscow, Russia – November 25, 2025 – The Asia-Pacific Development Center on Disability (APCD) participated in the influential panel discussion "BRICS of Opportunities: A Platform for Scaling Life-Changing Technologies" held in Moscow, Russia. The event, organized by the Roscongress Foundation of Russia, explored how inclusive technologies can serve as a catalyst for global change by uniting efforts across BRICS countries and partner states to create human-centered solutions.

APCD's Contribution to the Discussion

Nongnuch Maytarjittipun, Department Manager of APCD (Thailand), represented the organization as a key speaker at the panel. Her participation highlighted APCD's expertise in developing and implementing inclusive technologies that improve the lives of persons with disabilities across the Asia-Pacific region.

Focus on Sustainable Ecosystems

The panel emphasized the importance of creating sustainable ecosystems where technologies for rehabilitation, employment, adapted environments, and media are accessible across different countries and cultures. Discussions centered on three critical questions: how to transform social technologies into common BRICS assets, what forms of cooperation are most effective for scaling successful practices, and how to ensure that each solution improves people's quality of life while creating new opportunities for self-realization.

Distinguished International Panel

The session was moderated by Dmitry Polikanov, Deputy Director of the Russian Federal Agency for the Commonwealth of Independent States Affairs, Compatriots Living Abroad and International Humanitarian Cooperation. Alongside APCD, speakers included:

• Dr. Hadriani Uli Tiur Silalahi, Chair of Women20 Indonesia Presidency
• Mantula Nonkululeko Patricia, CEO of Global South Queens Media House and BRICS WBA (South Africa)
• Ilona Yuzhakova, Director of BRICS Charity Project (Russia)
• Hunny Bhagchandani, Founder of Torchit Electronics (India) – online participation
• Kuanysh Saparov, Deputy Director of Investment and Entrepreneurship Development Department at Astana Mayor's Office (Kazakhstan)
• Sergey Kudryashov, Director of Sustainable Development Department at PhosAgro
• Jabir Hassan, Head of Next-Generation Bioprinting at "ShabLab", Khalifa University (UAE) – online participation

• Advancing Global Cooperation

  APCD's participation underscores its commitment to advancing inclusive technology solutions through international collaboration. The organization continues to work with global partners to ensure that life-changing technologies reach persons with disabilities across diverse communities, promoting accessibility, disability inclusion, and sustainable development aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

  APCD expresses gratitude to the Roscongress Foundation and all participants who contributed to this meaningful dialogue on inclusive technology innovation and global cooperation.

Cha-am, Phetchaburi Province – The Asia-Pacific Development Center on Disability (APCD) marked a significant milestone by conducting its first training course outside Bangkok, bringing disability awareness and inclusion practices to the southern region of Thailand.

On 21 November 2025, APCD delivered its "Training Course on Understanding Customers and Staff with Disability" at Centara Life Cha-am Beach Resort Hua Hin in Phetchaburi Province. The initiative represents APCD's expanding commitment to promoting disability-inclusive practices throughout Thailand's hospitality sector.

"This training is invaluable for our team," said Asdang Sukwises, General Manager at Centara Life Cha-am Beach Resort Hua Hin. "Understanding how to better serve customers with disabilities and create an inclusive workplace for staff with disabilities is essential for modern hospitality. We are honored to be the first venue outside Bangkok to host this important APCD program."

The comprehensive full-day training session was facilitated by APCD's experienced resource persons: Ms. Nongnuch Maytarjittipun, a trainer with mobility disability; Mr. Sunthorn, a trainer with visual disability; and Ms. Sirinan Kongcharoen, Training Assistant. The team shared practical knowledge and best practices for creating accessible and welcoming environments.

Participants learned about various types of disabilities, appropriate communication techniques, accessibility considerations, and strategies for fostering inclusive workplace cultures. The training engaged hotel staff members in essential skills development for serving guests with disabilities and aging individuals.

By bringing this training to Cha-am, APCD has opened doors for hotels, resorts, and tourism businesses in southern Thailand to enhance their disability inclusion practices. The move reflects growing recognition of the importance of accessible tourism and inclusive employment throughout the region.

The training course aligns with Thailand's commitment to disability rights and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, helping businesses create more equitable opportunities and experiences for both customers and employees with disabilities.

The program concluded with a certificate award ceremony, marking a significant step in the resort's commitment to inclusive hospitality services.

The Asia-Pacific Development Center on Disability (APCD), under the leadership of Executive Director Piroon Laismit, participated in a landmark family development initiative at Paradise Park on November 12, 2025.

The event, organized by the Department of Women's Affairs and Family Development and led by Director-General Jatuporn, centered on strengthening family institutions and empowering women across all age groups, with special attention to senior women and family caregivers.

APCD showcased its APCD60+ booth, presenting programs that support women in their roles as family caregivers while promoting family wellbeing and gender equality. The initiative recognizes that strong families begin with empowered women who have access to resources, support networks, and opportunities for personal development.

The collaboration highlights the critical intersection between women's empowerment and family stability, acknowledging that women play central roles in maintaining family cohesion and ensuring the wellbeing of elderly family members.

Through this partnership, both organizations aim to create sustainable support systems that enable women to balance caregiving responsibilities with personal fulfillment, while strengthening family bonds and promoting intergenerational harmony as foundations for thriving communities in Thailand.

Bangkok, Thailand – The Asia-Pacific Development Center on Disability (APCD) hosted a meaningful Day of Service activity in collaboration with The Rockefeller Foundation and the Thailand International Cooperation Agency (TICA) on Thursday, November 6, 2025, at the APCD 60+ Plus Bakery & Cafe.

Ms. Deepali Khanna, Senior Vice President, Asia Regional Office, The Rockefeller Foundation, and Ms. Arunee Hiam, Deputy Director-General of the Thailand International Cooperation Agency (TICA), led their respective delegations to participate in a charitable bread-baking activity alongside employees with disabilities at the social enterprise bakery.

Mr. Piroon Laismit, Executive Director of the Asia-Pacific Development Center on Disability (APCD), welcomed the distinguished guests and facilitated the collaborative activity that brought together international development leaders and persons with disabilities in a shared mission of community service.
The Rockefeller Foundation and TICA teams worked side-by-side with the talented employees with disabilities at APCD 60+ Plus Bakery & Cafe, learning the art of bread-making through hands-on experience. Participants kneaded dough and baked fresh bread specifically for donation to students at the Bangkok School for the Blind, demonstrating a spirit of giving and solidarity.

Following the baking session, Ms. Khanna, Ms. Hiam, Mr. Laismit, and their delegations personally delivered the freshly baked bread to the Bangkok School for the Blind. The school's director, teachers, and students warmly welcomed the visitors in a heartfelt and friendly atmosphere, expressing gratitude for the thoughtful donation and the spirit of inclusion it represented.

"This Day of Service exemplifies the power of collaboration in advancing disability inclusion and empowerment," said Mr. Piroon Laismit. "We are honored to partner with The Rockefeller Foundation and TICA in demonstrating that meaningful social impact is achieved when we work together across sectors and bring persons with disabilities to the center of our initiatives."

The activity highlighted the success of APCD 60+ Plus Bakery & Cafe as a model social enterprise that provides dignified employment opportunities for persons with disabilities while delivering quality products and services to the community.

This collaboration reflects the shared commitment of The Rockefeller Foundation, TICA, and APCD to promoting inclusive development, disability rights, and sustainable inclusive development in the Asia-Pacific region.

BANGKOK, 3 November 2025 – APCD was happy to welcome Tuan Pengiran Salleh Ab. Rahaman Pengiran Damit, Chairman of An Nur Harapan, a charitable organization that supports youths with special needs in Brunei Darussalam, and Mdm Suzanne Rinawaty Abdullah, parents of Princess Sarah binti Salleh Ab. Rahama of Brunei, today, 3 November 2025!

Our guests were warmly welcomed by Dr. Tej Bunnag, APCD President, Mr. Piroon Laismit, APCD Executive Director, and APCD staff with and without disability.

This visit shows our commitment to working together with partners from Brunei and across the region to support disability inclusion and empowerment!

Conrad Bangkok has strengthened its commitment to inclusive hospitality by completing the Level 1 training course titled “Basic Understanding of Customers and Staff with Disabilities,” in collaboration with the Asia-Pacific Development Center on Disability (APCD).

The course, which concluded its second half-day session on 31 October 2025, aimed to enhance staff capacity in understanding and supporting guests and colleagues with disabilities. A total of 23 staff members from key departments—including Front Office, Food and Beverage, Housekeeping, and Human Resources—participated in the training.

The programme focused on respectful communication, proactive assistance, and identifying potential barriers in hotel services. These competencies are essential for delivering the five-star, personalized service that defines the Hilton Group’s global standards.

Mr. Tim Sainsbury, General Manager of Conrad Bangkok, presided over the closing session. He commended participants for their professionalism and reaffirmed the hotel’s vision to continue working with APCD to promote inclusion and accessibility in Thailand and beyond.

Ms. Piyanuch Jombunud na Ayudhya, Director of Human Resources for Thailand and Laos, stated that the initiative reflects the Hilton Group’s commitment to integrating equity and inclusive service design into the luxury hospitality experience.

The collaboration between Conrad Bangkok and APCD highlights a shared dedication to redefining five-star excellence through accessibility and inclusion—ensuring that world-class hospitality is truly for everyone.

The Asia-Pacific Development Center on Disability (APCD), in partnership with Centara Life Government Complex Hotel & Convention Centre, conducted a comprehensive workshop aimed at enhancing disability awareness among hotel staff as part of its ongoing commitment to fostering inclusive practices in Thailand's hospitality sector.

The one-day training, held on 24 October 2025 at Centara Life Government Complex Hotel & Convention Centre, welcomed hotel staff members and focused on building practical knowledge and interpersonal skills for engaging with guests and colleagues with disabilities.

The workshop, titled "Understanding Customers and Staff with Disabilities," featured interactive sessions designed to strengthen awareness and promote respectful communication. Trainers with lived experiences of disability played a key role in facilitating the training, bringing real-world perspectives and expertise to help participants understand the diverse needs of persons with disabilities.

The training was coordinated by the Human Resources Department of Centara Life Government Complex Hotel & Convention Centre under the leadership of Ms. Kanchana Ruangsiriwichayakul, General Manager, and Ms. Vassana Chaokou, Human Resources Manager, who supported this training initiative, demonstrating the hotel's commitment to inclusive hospitality and equitable service for all guests.

Key topics covered during the workshop included the principle of "Ask Me First," which promotes empowerment and respectful service; an overview of various disability types; practical communication techniques; and interactive exercises such as simulated check-ins, guiding activities, and hands-on challenges. Participants also received guidance on safety procedures tailored to guests with disabilities.

The training concluded with an open discussion and experience-sharing session among participants, reinforcing the importance of accessible, barrier-free hospitality.

This initiative is part of APCD's long-standing collaboration with the hospitality sector in Thailand, working to promote inclusive employment and equal opportunities for persons with disabilities.

The Asia-Pacific Development Center on Disability (APCD), in partnership with DoubleTree by Hilton Bangkok Ploenchit, conducted a workshop aimed at enhancing disability awareness among hotel staff as part of its ongoing commitment to fostering inclusive practices in Thailand's service sector.

The half-day training, held on 12 September 2025 at DoubleTree by Hilton Bangkok Ploenchit, located on Sukhumvit Soi 2, welcomed 14 hotel staff members and focused on building practical knowledge and interpersonal skills for engaging with guests and colleagues with disabilities.

The workshop, titled "Understanding Customers and Staff with Disabilities," featured interactive sessions designed to strengthen awareness and promote respectful communication. Trainers with lived experiences of disability played a key role in facilitating the training. Among them were Ms. Nongnuch Maytarjitipun, a trainer with a physical disability; Mr. Sunthorn, who is person with visual disability; and Ms. Sirinan, serving as a training assistant.

The training was coordinated by the Learning and Development Department of DoubleTree by Hilton Bangkok Ploenchit under the leadership of General Manager Mr. Ashwin Bhat, who supported this training initiative, demonstrating the hotel's commitment to inclusive hospitality and equitable service for all guests.

Key topics covered during the workshop included the principle of "Ask Me First," which promotes empowerment and respectful service; an overview of various disability types; practical communication techniques; and interactive exercises such as simulated check-ins, guiding activities, and a hands-on "Water Pouring" challenge. Participants also received guidance on safety procedures tailored to guests with disabilities.

The training concluded with an open discussion and experience-sharing session among participants, reinforcing the importance of accessible, barrier-free hospitality.

This initiative is part of APCD's long-standing collaboration with the hospitality sector in Thailand, working to promote inclusive employment and equal opportunities for persons with disabilities.