The Asia Pacific Enterprise Awards (APEA) 2024 Regional Edition has once again showcased the region’s commitment to inclusive entrepreneurship. Held in the vibrant city of Bangkok, Thailand, this year’s awards ceremony highlighted the extraordinary achievements of industry leaders who have championed inclusivity and innovation across Asia.
Let’s dive into the highlights and key takeaways from this year’s event.
Honouring Champions of Inclusive Entrepreneurship
A Night to Remember
The APEA 2024 Regional Edition was an evening dedicated to recognising those who have not only excelled in their fields but have also made significant strides in promoting inclusivity within their organisations and industries. The event was graced by notable dignitaries, including H.E. Datuk Jojie Samuel, Ambassador of Malaysia to Thailand, and Chotima Iemsawasdikul, Director-General of the Department of Trade Negotiations of the Ministry of Commerce of Thailand.
Awards Categories and Winners
The APEA 2024 featured a rigorous selection process with over 150 nominees evaluated by a panel of distinguished judges. The awards were presented across four key categories:
- Master Entrepreneur
- Inspirational Brand
- Fast Enterprise
- Corporate Excellence
Spotlight on Award Recipients
Master Entrepreneurs Leading the Way
Among the distinguished winners in the Master Entrepreneur category were:
- Datuk Ir. N. Purushothaman Nair of Afrima Consulting Engineer Sdn Bhd (Malaysia), recognised for his exceptional contributions in professional and business services.
- Gil G. Chua, Group Chairman and CEO of DDB Group Philippines, celebrated for his impactful leadership in the professional services sector.
- Kamonpop Veerapala, President of Government Housing Bank (G H Bank) (Thailand), honoured for his contributions to financial services.
These leaders exemplify the essence of entrepreneurship by breaking barriers and creating opportunities for others.
Inspirational Brands Making a Difference
The Inspirational Brand category highlighted companies that have set benchmarks in their industries:
- Bangchak Corporation Public Company Limited (Thailand), recognised for its innovative approaches in the oil and gas sector.
- Krungthai Bank PCL (Thailand), celebrated for its influential role in financial services.
These brands are not just market leaders; they are trailblazers in fostering inclusive business practices.
Fast Enterprises Driving Growth
In the Fast Enterprise category, PT INTENS (Indonesia) stood out in telecommunications and ICT, showcasing rapid growth and a commitment to innovation.
Corporate Excellence Exemplars
The Corporate Excellence category honoured firms demonstrating outstanding performance across various sectors:
- Central Retail Corporation Public Company Limited (Thailand), acknowledged for its excellence in retail.
- Metropolitan Electricity Authority (MEA) (Thailand), celebrated for its leadership in the energy sector.
These organisations are setting new standards in corporate excellence and inclusivity.
Asia Economic Forum 2024: A Platform for Inclusive Growth
Empowering Through Discussion
The Asia Economic Forum (AEF) 2024, held prior to the APEA awards, brought together over 300 top executives, business leaders, and policymakers from 19 countries. The forum’s theme, “Empowering Asia Through Inclusive Entrepreneurship Ecosystems,” provided a platform for discussing the challenges and opportunities in fostering inclusive business environments.
Key Takeaways from the Forum
- Inclusion and Innovation: Richard Tsang, President of Enterprise Asia, emphasised that creating an inclusive ecosystem is not just about equality but about unlocking the full potential of every individual.
- Diverse Perspectives: Speakers like Dr. Chatchai Thnarudee and Kultida Leenabanchong shared insights on how diverse perspectives drive innovation and sustainable development.
Featured Speakers
The forum boasted an impressive lineup of speakers, including:
- Rashmi Sharma, Sr. Director at Coca Cola, who discussed leadership and wellbeing.
- Lt. General Sudhir Sharma, Chairman of MitKat Advisory Services, who provided valuable advice on building inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystems.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Inclusive Entrepreneurship
The Road Ahead
The APEA 2024 Regional Edition and AEF 2024 have set a high bar for promoting inclusive entrepreneurship. As we move forward, the lessons learned and the connections made will be instrumental in shaping the future of business in Asia.
Join the Movement
If you’re inspired by these stories of success and inclusion, consider how you can contribute to building a more inclusive business environment in your own industry. The journey towards inclusivity is ongoing, and every step counts.
