Speakers and guests take a group photo after the forum. (EDMOND TANG / CHINA DAILY)

Following the completion of the Ayutthaya race, a forum themed “Entrepreneurship Insights” was held, with discussions among young entrepreneurs and representatives from Thailand, the Philippines, Singapore and China.

“In the past few years, there have been dramatic changes in the world economy. E-business is now definitely one of the most eye-catching trends,” said Joephy Chan Wing-yan, a lawmaker and former district councilor of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.

Argus Ang (center), CEO of RVi Group, presides over a panel during the “Entrepreneurship Insights” forum in Ayutthaya, Thailand, on Oct 15, 2023.  (EDMOND TANG / CHINA DAILY)

Leading a group of key opinion leaders from the SAR, Chan and her team took part in both the forum and the fun run. At the forum, she cited a recent survey in Hong Kong, which showed that a great number of young people now prefer to work online by building themselves up as internet influencers.

“The online platform helps us to think in advance amid a changing world. Many agencies are trying to find the talents with language advantages to promote their products in international markets,” she said.

Kokchai Chairatsameekun, deputy governor of Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya province (Economics), speaks at the  “Entrepreneurship Insights” forum. (EDMOND TANG / CHINA DAILY)

Chan said she believes that young entrepreneurs can position themselves and succeed in cross-border e-commerce. She said a union has been formed by about 100 young online influencers in Hong Kong, and they’re ready to cooperate with partners from Thailand and other countries.

At the forum, young representatives from Thailand also shared their views on how to develop tradition businesses with innovation and new ideas.

“While many young people now focus on new things, I think there’s another way to make changes by  elevating traditional products with new ideas,” said Tanarat Ratanachiuchukorn, managing director of Chotakkarasuchin Co — a Thai enterprise engaged in the production of fresh agricultural products.

He said Thailand has great potential with its history, fashion, food and culture. “Young people can invigorate traditional businesses with new ideas, and better demonstrate the country’s uniqueness to the world,” he added.

James Soh, executive director of National Youth Achievement Award Council, speaks at the "Entrepreneurship Insights" forum at  Ayutthaya in Thailand on Oct 15, 2023. (EDMOND TANG / CHINA DAILY）

Chan Wing Yan, member of Legislative Council, Hong Kong, China, speaks at the "Entrepreneurship Insights" forum at  Ayutthaya in Thailand on Oct 15, 2023. (EDMOND TANG / CHINA DAILY）

Tanarat Ratanachiuchukorn (Korn/Jackson), managing director of Chotakkarasuchin Go Ltd, speak at the "Entrepreneurship Insights" forum at Ayutthaya in Thailand on Oct 15, 2023. (PHOTO / CHINA DAILY)

Dennis Ng, CEO of Mober, speaks at the "Entrepreneurship Insights" forum at  Ayutthaya in Thailand on Oct 15, 2023. (EDMOND TANG / CHINA DAILY）