Bangkok, Thailand
The ASEAN Youth Furniture Exchange (AYFE) 2024 held November 13-16 concluded with resounding success. The event united over 50 young furniture manufacturers and professionals from seven ASEAN nations including Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Vietnam, Myanmar, and host country Thailand.
Held under the theme “Sustainability Soirée,” the event provided a platform to foster collaboration, share knowledge, and celebrate cultural diversity.
Organised by the ASEAN Furniture Industries Council (AFIC) in partnership with the Thai Furniture Industries Club (TFIC) and proudly sponsored by Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC), AYFE 2024 showcased the combined efforts of AFIC’s leadership, youth members, and dedicated hosts to create an inspiring and impactful event.
The event was led by Mr. Dhanakorn Kasetrsuwan (DK), Chairman of AFIC, and Mr. Chinthep Angkhumsub, AFIC Secretary General. Their guidance and commitment ensured the seamless execution of this important gathering. Supporting them were AFIC youth members, who served as key organizers and hosts:
- Mr. Patchara Vipawapanich (Pat), AFIC Assistant to the Secretary General
- Ms. Dhanaporn Kasetrsuwan (Jean), AFIC Assistant to the Secretary General
- Ms. Ornvara Kasetrsuwan (Jan), AFIC Assistant to the Secretary General
- Mr. Nutt Rungwattanapak (Nutt), TFIC Committee
AYFE 2024 offered a rich lineup of activities across four memorable days, demonstrating the region’s commitment to a sustainable future.
Activity 1: Warm Welcome and Ice-Breaking Activities
The event commenced with an inspiring welcome speech by Mr. Tanatat Chawaldit, Chairman of TFIC, who highlighted the importance of youth engagement in driving ASEAN’s furniture industry forward. Participants then joined fun and interactive ice-breaking activities designed to build connections and set the tone for a collaborative journey.
Activity 2: Seminar and Panel Discussion on Sustainability
The second activity featured a thought-provoking seminar hosted by PEFC, one of AYFE 2024’s key sponsors:
• Shawn Goh, PEFC APAC Value Chain Manager, presented insights on sustainable practices, SDGs, and ESG principles in furniture manufacturing.
• Sasimar “Nikki” Srisakulwan, Project Developer at Frasers Property Thailand, shared her experience implementing sustainable materials in the design of One Bangkok, a groundbreaking destination mall in Thailand.
The session concluded with an expert panel discussion featuring Shawn Goh, Nikki, and Alex Yang, Founder of Quirky Haus and Co-Founder of Design Bureau Singapore, sparking dynamic conversations about sustainability and innovation.
Adding to the enriching experience, professors and 40 students from Bangkok University’s Interior Design Department joined the seminar, further bridging academia and industry.
Activity 3: SB Design Square Tour
Participants visited SB Design Square, Thailand’s leading furniture manufacturer, located at the Crystal Design Center (CDC). The group received a warm welcome from Mr. Tanatat Chawaldit, who also serves as the President of TFIC, and Ms. Sutida Vichitkulwongsa, Executive Vice President of SB Furniture Group.
During the tour, SB shared their inspiring success story and provided insights into their innovative practices. The session underscored an essential takeaway: no matter how big or successful a company becomes, adaptability and continuous learning are key to staying ahead in an ever-changing world.
Activity 4: Gala Dinner – A Celebration of Culture and Unity
The event concluded with a spectacular Gala Dinner themed “National Costume,” celebrating the diversity and unity of ASEAN.
Highlights included:
• A delicious international buffet dinner that brought everyone together.
• A mesmerizing Thai Khon performance, showcasing Thailand’s rich cultural heritage.
• A heartfelt thank-you speech by Mr. Dhanakorn Kasetrsuwan, Chairman of AFIC, sharing the story of AFIC’s formation and expressing gratitude to all participants.
• A surprise fashion show by Thailand’s youth team, blending tradition with modern creativity.
• A dedicated photo booth and backdrop where participants captured unforgettable memories.
The Gala Dinner embodied the spirit of AYFE 2024, uniting participants in celebration and setting the stage for future collaborations.
Looking Ahead to AYFE 2025
AYFE 2024 exemplified the power of regional cooperation in shaping the future of the furniture industry. As the participants bid farewell, the excitement for next year’s AYFE in Bali, Indonesia, was already building.
About AYFE:
The ASEAN Youth Furniture Exchange (AYFE) aims to nurture young leaders in the furniture industry, promoting innovation, collaboration, and sustainable practices across ASEAN.
