Bangkok, Thailand, March 20, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Skål International Bangkok, a mainstay of the Thai tourism industry since its founding in 1956, held its Annual General Meeting and monthly networking luncheon on Tuesday, March 18, 2025. As one of the most established Skål clubs, Skål International Bangkok has always supported the Thai tourism sector and plays a key role in strengthening industry connections and initiatives. The event, which is usually held on the second Tuesday of each month, was postponed by one week to allow members time to return from the ITB travel trade show in Berlin.

The Annual General Meeting took place in the magnificent ballroom of the Hyatt Regency Bangkok Hotel and saw record attendance from members and guests. President James Thurlby opened the meeting with the traditional Skål toast and confirmed the successful completion of the online election, which led to the election of a new board. A quorum was duly established, ensuring a smooth and transparent process.

The new committee for 2025: • President – ​​James Thurlby (elected in October 2024) • Vice President – ​​Marvin Bemand • Second Vice President – ​​Andrew J. Wood • Vice President, Women in Leadership – Kanokros “Aom” Wongvekin (elected in October 2024) • Secretary – Jennifer Ferris (elected in October 2024) • Treasurer – John Neutze • Membership Relations – Dr. Maxso Ma • Events – Pichai Visutriratana • Youth Group – Dr. Scott Smith • Public Relations & Youth Group – Yannika Chansrichawla

In his inaugural address as president, James Thurlby looked back on the achievements of the past twelve months and recalled the club's roadmap presented last year. He highlighted key milestones and reaffirmed the club's commitment to sustainability, collaboration with the industry, and support for the local community.

President James Thurlby stated: “Together with a fantastic team, we will bring fresh perspectives and make a difference in the hospitality and tourism industry. Let’s make 2025 a year of growth and success. My particular focus is on increasing the benefits for our members, boosting our Young Skål membership, and offering events for women in leadership positions. Above all, increasing our membership is my top priority. As one of the world’s leading tourist destinations with its dynamic tourism industry, this is a perfectly achievable goal.”

Special recognition was due to the sponsors, whose support is crucial for Skål Bangkok to achieve its goals – not only for its members but also for the entire Bangkok community, especially through charity events during the festive season.

A special moment of the luncheon was the honoring of former President Kanokros “Aom”, who was presented with the presidential chain – an honor she accepted with great joy and gratitude.

The Annual General Meeting and the subsequent luncheon once again underscored the importance of Skål International Bangkok as a well-established and dynamic force in the Thai tourism industry. With a competent leadership team, the club is ideally positioned to continue its mission: bringing together tourism professionals in Bangkok and beyond, forging valuable connections, and advocating for a sustainable future for the industry.

Skål International is the world's largest global network of tourism professionals, dedicated to promoting sustainability, creating networking opportunities and informing its members about the latest industry trends.

Further information can be found at: www.skalbangkok.com