The journey to World Expo 2020 Ayutthaya has begun in Thailand. Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) launched its first public awareness event “World Expo 2020: Believe in Thailand” at Parc Paragon in Bangkok. Partnering Bangkok Metropolitan Authority and shopping malls Siam Paragon, Siam Center and Siam Discovery, the event included a stage show that gave first glimpses of Thailand’s bid and a multimedia exhibition.
Akapol: To inspire all Thais to support Thailand’s bid.
At the launch, TCEB President, Mr Akapol Sorasuchart said: “Our aim is to educate the public and inspire all Thai people to unite and support the bid. We expect 200,000 visitors to this event, which will also reach out to more than 3 million people throughout the country through mass and social media.”

Mr Akapol and Bangkok Governor Mr M.R. Sukhumbhand Paribata unveiled the campaign motto “We want Expo”, the theme song “We want Expo” and the new mascot “Nong Naree”. The two-day event featured educational and fun activities for the public, an exhibition on Thailand’s participation at World Expos dating back to 1862, and the popular “Intrajit” robot from the World Expo 2010 Shanghai.

Two weeks earlier, TCEB organised an “Expo troop” to six key business districts in Bangkok to rally interest and gather feedback. More than 100,000 people signed the “I want Expo” cards to show support.
If successful in its bid, Thailand will make history as the first Southeast Asian nation to host a World Expo.
Writer: S.T. Leng, Photos: Eugene Tang