KTC Partnered with Cross Pattaya Oceanphere and Hosted a Forum on Gender Equality Strategies from Pattaya to the Global Arena

KTC has opened a forum to promote gender equality from Pattaya to the world.  By reinforcing the organization’s commitment to equality, KTC gathers opinions from the Chamber of Commerce, the Thai Hotel Association, and private sector operators, to position Pattaya as a premier travel destination for tourists of diverse genders.  This initiative aims to use tourism to stimulate the Thai economy while planning strategies to achieve societal equality on par with global standards. The forum is being held at Cross Pattaya Oceanphere. 

Mr. Teerin Tanyawattanakul, President, The Chonburi Chamber of Commerce, stated that the economy in the Chonburi area still requires monitoring due to sluggish purchasing power and high household debt levels.  However, the tourism sector has begun to show clear signs of growth.  The Chamber of Commerce has devised a strategy to boost tourism in the Chonburi area by enhancing community-level tourism and incorporating innovative technology to improve the tourism system.  This includes organizing tours, travel routes, and accommodations all in one go, as well as training personnel in foreign language skills.  The private sector is also ready to support tourism, particularly in June during Pride Month where Chonburi, which boasts many travel destinations, attracts gender-diverse tourists.  Tourism is believed to be a crucial driver of the Thai economy, which the Chamber of Commerce predicts will grow by 2.7%.

Data from the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) reveals that LGBTQ+ travel enthusiasts make up more than 10% of global travelers and account for 16% of total travel spending. Their spending amounts to $195 billion USD per year, and it is expected that by 2030, tourism spending by the LGBTQ+ community will reach $568.5 billion USD, or approximately 19.70 trillion baht. 

Ms. Morrakot Kuldilok, President, Thai Hotels Association Eastern Chapter, expressed that Pattaya is ready to welcome tourists of all genders, ages, races, and religions, especially LGBTQ tourists, a group known for their high purchasing power and frequent travel.  This will positively impact tourism operators, hotels, and restaurants in Pattaya, promoting growth in these sectors.  The charm of LGBTQ tourists means that if they are satisfied with the service, they are likely to return.  Therefore, providing excellent tourism services will create a lasting impression and attract more tourists from this group.  For marketing communications, Pattaya city will collaborate with associations, organizations, educational institutions, and related agencies to foster understanding about LGBTQ tourists, emphasizing friendliness and equal treatment.  Additionally, promoting a positive attitude among local people towards tourists is a priority for Pattaya city, as this will help build confidence and influence travel decisions.

Ms. Buddhachard Paengchai, Vice President Marketing Communications of Cross Hotels & Resorts, Cross Hotels & Resorts, shared that Cross Pattaya Oceanphere is a luxurious pool villa that offers privacy along with special services and a unique experience.  The establishment focuses on serving all groups of customers, emphasizing support on policies and creating a friendly environment for LGBTQ tourists.  Collaborating with local organizations, the villa supports and organizes events such as Pride Month festivals and related film events.  Additionally, it develops travel packages and experiences tailored for LGBTQ travelers, including LGBTQ-friendly tours, nightlife and wellness retreats.  The company also enforces an inclusive policy for all employees, emphasizing fairness in managing employee benefits.  This approach fosters a positive working atmosphere, enhancing the service and experience for guests.  To celebrate Pride Month, the hotel offers special promotions exclusively for KTC credit card customers with up to a 30% discount and a 500 baht cash credit for food and drinks.  Reservations for these promotions can only be made through the hotel's website. 

Mr. Parama Ongkitti, Head of Account Management - Finance & Non-Financial Corporate, Central Pattana Public Company Limited, stated that one of the organizational cultures Central Pattana emphasizes is respect for everyone's differences and providing equal opportunities to diverse groups of people. In June, when the world celebrates Pride Month, Central Pattana supports diversity and equality by organizing activities throughout the month at Central department stores nationwide. Under the campaign THAILAND’S PRIDE CELEBRATION 2024 “PRIDE FOR ALL,” Central creates spaces for everyone in society to embrace differences and diversity, reflecting 3 important values: diversity, inclusivity, and equality. The company also aims to declare its pride and promote Thailand as a top of Pride destination for people worldwide.

Mrs. Pranaya Nithananon, Head of Credit Card Marketing, “KTC”   or Krungthai Card Public Company Limited, stated that KTC emphasizes driving business toward sustainable growth by considering Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) dimensions.  This includes providing opportunities and ensuring equality and inclusivity in society, particularly regarding gender equality in employment.  KTC is committed to treating its employees equally and contributing to the country's goal of making Thailand a world-class industrial hub with equal opportunities for all.  Chonburi province, specifically the Pattaya area, is a key tourism destination welcoming tourists of all genders and ages.  It also represents KTC's second-largest member base and total credit card spending, following Bangkok and its vicinity.  In Chonburi, the highest spending categories for KTC credit cards are gasoline, restaurants, and travel.

Additionally, KTC prioritizes partnership marketing to meet the diverse needs of all of its members.  During Pride Month, KTC collaborates with leading partners nationwide to offer special up to 40% discounts and up to 18% cash back across 8 lifestyle categories: Hotels, travel, shopping, fashion, health and beauty, books, sports, and pets throughout June 2024. 

• Get updates on other KTC promotions at
  www.ktc.co.th/promotion/hotel-resort/domestic-hotel/pride-month

• To apply for any KTC credit card
  “KTC TOUCH” branches nationwide
  https://ktc.today/apply-card

Remark: It is advisable for credit cardholders to use their cards responsibly and repay the full amount as scheduled to avoid incurring an annual interest rate of 16%.