Member Luncheon: Beyond the Big Screen: The Economic Impact of Soft Power

Description

Film is more than just entertainment – it is a driver of economic growth, cultural power, and international visibility. At our August Member Luncheon, the Creative Economy Council is delighted to welcome a keynote speaker, Dr. Surapong Suebwonglee, Deputy Chief of the Policy Advisory Board to the Prime Minister and Chairman of the National Soft Power Development Committee and other distinguished speakers who will explore Thailand’s untapped potential as a global film production hub and examine how the entertainment industry transforms tourism and local communities. Join us at our Member Luncheon to discover strategic opportunities positioning Thailand as a premier destination.


About the Speakers
Dr. Surapong Suebwonglee is serving as Deputy Chief of the Policy Advisory Board to the Prime Minister. His visionary leadership as Chairman of the National Soft Power Development Committee has helped highlight Thai narratives on the global stage. Dr. Surapong served previous administrations in significant positions including Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance. After earning bachelor's degrees in science and medicine from Mahidol University, he obtained a master's degree in business administration from Sasin Graduate Institute of Business Administration at Chulalongkorn University.

Ruben Hattari is the Public Policy Director for Netflix in Southeast Asia. He currently oversees Netflix’s government engagements and supports the growth of the region’s creative economic sector. He has extensive experience in Southeast Asia. He previously led Facebook’s public policy efforts in Indonesia and Timor-Leste, focusing on e-commerce and content regulation. He also served as Corporate Affairs Director at Microsoft Indonesia, overseeing issues like data privacy, cybersecurity, and smart city initiatives. He graduated from MIT Sloan School of Management.
 
Apinat “Obb” Siricharoenjit is serving as a partner and line producer at Living Films. He plays a pivotal role in the Thai film industry. Serving on Thailand’s Film Board, he is also a key industry advocate and was instrumental in helping pass Thailand’s new 30% film incentive, further strengthening the country’s appeal as a world-class production hub. He is currently the Line Producer for the “Alien” TV Series (Disney/FX Network), the largest film investment in Thailand. He graduated from Mahidol University International College with a bachelor’s degree in business management.
 
Dane Halpin is Director of Public Relations and Communications at Minor Hotels. With more than a decade of experience in branding, journalism, and strategic communications in Southeast Asia, he leads Minor Hotels’ global PR strategy. He has spearheaded high-impact campaigns and leveraged cultural moments such as “The White Lotus Season 3” to elevate Anantara destinations. Passionate about media relations in tourism and hospitality, he combines strategic insights with creative execution to build brand trust and inspire global audiences. He graduated from Monash University with a master’s degree in marketing and digital communications.