LIONS CLUBS INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION IN KORAT A SUCCESS AGAINST COVID-19 SITUATION

LIONS CLUBS INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION IN KORAT A SUCCESS 

AGAINST COVID-19 SITUATION

8 June 2021, Bangkok: Lions Clubs International proved a success with its large convention of more than 2,000 attendees held in its first hybrid format in Thailand’s new MICE city, Nakhon Ratchasima or Korat. Strictly following hygiene safety standards, the new normal event was supported by Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau (TCEB), generating 15 million baht in revenue to the local economy.

Lion Yupawan Sitthikongsak District Governor 310 E, 2020-2021, stated that “the 55th Lions Clubs International (LCI) MD 310 Thailand Convention held in early May in Nakhon Ratchasima is considered extraordinary as it is our first convention held under the new normal administration system, which is compliant with the measures of the Center for COVID-19 Situation Administration (CCSA). Besides, it is the first time of Lions Clubs to receive support from the public sector, including Nakhon Ratchasima province and TCEB, both of which joined us in holding this distinguished summit”. 

The annual convention’s objective is to conclude the performance of Multiple District Committee and to elect the supreme leader of each district, which will take turn hosting the convention among the 6 districts nationwide, where 2,250 Lions Clubs members are expected to attend at each event.   

The LCI MD 310 Thailand Convention was held as a hybrid event for the first time due to the COVID-19 situation and was attended by 2,318 online participants and 474 onsite delegates. During the three-day convention, the accommodation was scattered in three different hotels, while the convention itself was held in different periods of time as part of disease preventive measures.

Lions Clubs takes pride in holding a convention that contributes to the economy when the country is facing the pandemic and helps demonstrate the capability of a new MICE city, Nakhon Ratchasima. The way Lions Clubs organised this new normal convention is our learning experience that we would like to share with Chiang Mai, the host of the 56th LCI edition, stated Lion Yupawan Sitthikongsak District Governor 310 E, 2020-2021

Mr. Vichien Chantaranothai, Governor of Nakhon Ratchasima at the time the convention was held, said that, “The 55th Lions Clubs International MD 310 Thailand Convention in Nakhon Ratchasima is a proof of the city’s capability and readiness to hold MICE activities. We have diverse options of venues that can cater to large-sized conventions or exhibitions, full-range accommodation, and facilities. The city is the transportation hub of the northeastern region, has unique culture and renowned attractions. These elements perfectly serve MICE activities. Another asset is MICE personnel in the province, who are keen to deliver service. Despite the need to adapt to the COVID-19 situation, the convention ran smoothly thanks to the collective support from all sectors. The success has enhanced the image of the city and boosted the local economy. With this milestone, we are highly grateful to the participants from all sectors who contributed to the success of this event.” 

Mr. Chiruit Isarangkun Na Ayuthaya, President, Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau (Public Organization) or TCEB, remarked that TCEB has provided support to the Lions Clubs International Thailand Convention, whose hybrid format is an innovative blend of online and conventional event. In this respect, Lions Clubs selected the venues certified with Thailand MICE Venue Standard (TMVS) and executed Sustainable Events Basic Guidelines, such as electronic registration system, room temperature of less than 25 degree Celsius, disbandment of foam block and fresh flowers, disbandment of plastic bottles or straws. Further, the practice included the selection of organic food and drinks as well as locally made souvenirs.

Furthermore, TCEB introduced live streaming technology for the convention by altering meeting room’s layout to accommodate such setting. The number of attendees at the opening ceremony was limited to 40 for a 400-square metre floor space with a distance of over 10 metres from the stage. Throughout the event, attendees from across the country were screened by village health volunteers. 

“The 55th Lions Clubs International MD 310 Thailand Convention not only exceeded the objectives of the club, but also circulated the revenue of around 9 million baht into Nakhon Ratchasima, plus another accompanying income of 6.7 million baht. It is a distribution of income to the local region benefiting hotels, local shops and other establishments in the city. All are a reflection of our policy “Unlock MICE Cities with High Standard of Safety.”, said Khun Chiruit.   

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For further information, please contact: Corporate Image and Communication Department 

Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (Public Organization)   

Ms. Parichat Svetasreni Tel: +66 2 694 6009 Email: parichat_s@tceb.or.th

Ms. Ananta Leekasem  Tel: +66 2 694 6017 Email : ananta_l@tceb.or.th

Visage Company

Ms. Yuphaporn Lertsattakit   Tel: + 662 616 6749- 50

Public relation Chairperson, MD310 55th Convention 2021

Lion Dr.Khemmiepa Kosakitigul (DKK) Tel: +669 154 95954. Email : urdrkhemmie@gmail.com