Tag: Thailand

  • ASICS Women’s Retreat 2025: 8 Ways the Event in Thailand Inspired Movement, Mindfulness, and Community

    ASICS Women’s Retreat 2025: 8 Ways the Event in Thailand Inspired Movement, Mindfulness, and Community

    A participant engaged in a hands-on activity, focused and seated on the floor, while others are seen in the background. A round inset features a smiling group of women posing together in a vibrant setting.

    The power of movement took center stage in Thailand as ASICS Asia hosted its second Regional Women’s Retreat at RXV Wellness Village from July 21 to 24. Over 35 women representing different nationalities, ethnicities, and body types came together to celebrate the harmony of body and mind through movement, mindfulness, and creativity.

    Building on the momentum of the inaugural 2023 retreat that highlighted the gender exercise gap, this year’s edition went deeper into the importance of community and empowerment.

    Here are eight highlights that made the 2025 ASICS Regional Women’s Retreat an unforgettable experience.

    A sunrise run set the perfect tone
    The retreat opened with energy and optimism through a sunrise run led by ASICS Global Frontrunners Ania Gabb, Nina Ashton, and Prakriti Dutta, joined by ultra-marathoner Natalie Dau. The run was more than just exercise; it symbolized fresh beginnings and reminded participants how physical activity supports mental wellbeing. For many women, starting the day this way became a metaphor for moving forward with confidence.

    Ceremonies that encouraged letting go
    A standout feature of the retreat was the ‘Let Go’ Ceremony, where participants symbolically released self-doubt and limiting beliefs. This was paired with the Flower Crystal Mandala, which provided a meditative environment for emotional clarity. These rituals weren’t just symbolic—they created space for reflection, renewal, and the release of mental baggage that often holds women back from prioritizing themselves.

    Team challenges that built resilience
    The retreat emphasized that movement is not only about the individual but also about the collective. Activities such as high-5 push-ups, team flag-making, and Karuta Tori challenged women to collaborate, support one another, and celebrate group achievement. By combining physical activity with teamwork, participants learned how community fosters resilience and mental strength.

    Healing through water therapy
    To balance out the intensity of physical challenges, the retreat introduced a calming Hydrotherapy session. Guests enjoyed time to relax, float, and reconnect with themselves in the water. This element of the program highlighted the importance of recovery, showing how rest and stillness are as vital as action when striving for a sound body and sound mind.

    Creativity as a form of mindfulness
    Beyond movement and wellness, the retreat spotlighted art and sustainability through workshops like Furoshiki eco-print and Sashiko Japanese embroidery. These sessions encouraged women to embrace creativity while also practicing mindfulness. By focusing on handmade crafts and traditional art forms, participants gained a sense of grounding and discovered beauty in imperfection.

    The launch of the NAGINO™ collection
    One of the most exciting moments was the unveiling of ASICS’ latest AW25 NAGINO™ collection, a line designed by women for women. With its theme “Feel Comfort, Find Calm,” the collection embodies inclusivity, celebrating the diversity of women’s bodies and movement styles. Participants resonated deeply with the idea that fitness apparel can empower confidence while honoring individuality.

    A community that uplifts women
    The retreat was more than a series of activities; it was the strengthening of the ASICS Women’s Club. This initiative aims to connect women across cultures, encouraging them to move together with purpose. Associate Director of Marketing at ASICS Asia, Sin Ting Low, emphasized how building this community creates a ripple effect of positivity that extends far beyond one event. The retreat solidified the brand’s commitment to women’s empowerment through connection.

    A vision for long-term impact
    The event was not just about four days in Thailand—it was about setting the foundation for lasting change. ASICS aims to continue growing its Women’s Club as a purpose-driven community that inspires positive shifts in lifestyle, self-image, and overall wellbeing. As Maaya Fujita, Product Marketing Manager at ASICS Global, explained, the goal is to design products and experiences that support women in finding both comfort and rhythm in movement, no matter their background or ability.

    The 2025 ASICS Regional Women’s Retreat in Thailand proved that when women move together, they unlock a powerful synergy that enhances both body and mind. By blending fitness, mindfulness, creativity, and community, the retreat offered a holistic experience that goes far beyond exercise. It’s a reminder that empowerment starts with movement—but the real transformation happens when women support each other in the journey.

    For more on the ASICS Women’s Club and the NAGINO™ collection, visit asics.com/sg/en-sg/mk/womens-community.

  • Celebrating Women’s Health at ASICS’ Thailand Retreat

    Celebrating Women’s Health at ASICS’ Thailand Retreat

    A focused participant engages in a creative activity during the ASICS Regional Women's Retreat, surrounded by fellow attendees.

    From 21 – 24 July, ASICS hosted its second Regional Women’s Retreat at RXV Wellness Village in Thailand, bringing together a diverse group of women from across the Southeast Asian region to celebrate movement, mindfulness, and community.

    This initiative builds on the momentum from the first Women’s Retreat in 2023, which explored the gender exercise gap —highlighting how women tend to engage in significantly less physical activity than men.

    Through this continued effort, ASICS aims to inspire more women to embrace regular movement and experience its powerful mental health benefits.

    ASICS brought together a diverse group of over 35 women representing different nationalities, ethnicities and body types in a retreat which featured a carefully curated range of activities designed to nurture both body and mind, aligning with ASICS’ philosophy of a Sound Mind in Sound Body.

    Participants began the retreat with a sunrise run led by ASICS’ Global Frontrunners – Ania Gabb, Nina Ashton and Prakriti Dutta, as well as ultra-marathoner Natalie Dau, setting a positive tone for the day and emphasizing the importance of movement in achieving mental wellbeing.

    For a Sound Mind, the retreat opened with ‘Let Go’ Ceremony and the Flower Crystal Mandala ceremonies, which support emotional release, promote healing, and deepen self-awareness.

    The ‘Let Go’ Ceremony invites participants to symbolically release self-doubt and limiting beliefs, while embracing a sense of renewal and personal growth. The Crystal Mandala offered a meditative space for guests to tap into their intuition, clarify their thoughts and emotions, and connect with their inner selves, fostering deeper self-awareness and insight.

    For a Sound Body, the retreat also saw a series of team challenges including high-5 push-ups, team flag making as well as Karuta Tori; these activities fostered camaraderie amongst the guests and highlighted the value of community in fostering mental resilience. Furthermore, the guests were treated to a serene Hydrotherapy session, where they enjoyed meaningful moments to relax, reflect and rejuvenate. 

    In addition to physical and mental wellness activities, guests also engaged in sustainability and art workshops including Furoshiki Eco-print and Sachiko Japanese embroidery. These creative pursuits encouraged mindfulness, self-expression, and appreciation for the beauty of imperfection. By combining movement, mindfulness, and creativity, the retreat provided a holistic experience that nurtures both body and mind.

    “At ASICS, we believe that movement has the power to transform lives, and this retreat is a testament to our commitment to empowering women to prioritize their physical and mental well-being. By fostering a community that supports and uplifts each other, we can create a ripple effect of positivity that extends far beyond our events. As we continue to grow ASICS as a brand, we’re committed to building a strong and supportive community that empowers women to reach their full potential. The Regional Women’s Retreat is a key part of this effort, and we’re excited to see the positive impact it can have on women’s lives and the broader community,” added Sin Ting Low, Associate Director (Marketing) at ASICS Asia.

    The retreat also saw the launch of the ASICS’ latest AW25 NAGINOTM collection, designed by women for women, which celebrates the diversity of women’s bodies and movement styles. The collection’s theme, “Feel Comfort, Find Calm,” resonated with participants as they moved through various activities.

    The NAGINOTM collection is designed to celebrate the diversity of women’s bodies and movement styles, and we’re thrilled to see how it’s resonating with women from all walks of life. By creating products that cater to different needs and preferences, we aim to inspire more women to find comfort and rhythm in their movement,” shared Maaya Fujita, Product Marketing Manager at ASICS Global.

    ASICS aspires to continue growing and nurturing a strong, purpose-driven ASICS Women’s Club — a supportive community that uplifts and connects women from all walks of life. ASICS remains dedicated to championing this cause, believing that when women move together with purpose, they inspire positive change in the world around them.

    For more information on ASICS Women’s Club and the NAGINOTM collection, visit https://www.asics.com/sg/en-sg/mk/womens-community

  • Thailand’s Shinawatra Dynasty Toppled Again as Paetongtarn Ousted in Ethics Scandal

    Thailand’s Shinawatra Dynasty Toppled Again as Paetongtarn Ousted in Ethics Scandal

    A serious-looking woman in a patterned blazer stands in a formal setting, alongside a group in military and formal attire, with a large portrait of a royal figure in the background.

    Thailand’s most powerful political dynasty has once again lost its grip on power after Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra was permanently removed from office.

    The Constitutional Court ruled that she committed serious ethical violations by siding with former Cambodian leader Hun Sen in a leaked phone call about a deadly border clash.

    The scandal triggered mass protests and splintered her fragile coalition, forcing the Pheu Thai Party into crisis. Paetongtarn’s downfall makes her the third Shinawatra leader to be ousted before finishing a term, following her father Thaksin and aunt Yingluck.

    Her removal throws Thailand into political turmoil as rival factions scramble to form a new coalition or face the prospect of fresh elections.

    The ruling marks yet another chapter in the ongoing battle between the Shinawatras and the royalist establishment, which has repeatedly used the courts and coups to block the family’s return to long-term power.

  • KuCoin Becomes First Global Exchange to List Thailand’s Historic G-Token

    KuCoin Becomes First Global Exchange to List Thailand’s Historic G-Token

    A hand holding a smartphone displaying the G-Token logo, with a Bitcoin coin on top of U.S. dollar bills, set against a city skyline.

    Thailand is making history with the launch of its G-Token, the world’s first publicly offered tokenized government bond. KuCoin, a leading global cryptocurrency exchange, is the first to support this groundbreaking initiative, signaling a new era for digital finance and Real-World Asset adoption.

    1. Thailand’s First Tokenized Bond
      The G-Token combines the credibility of sovereign bonds with blockchain efficiency, providing investors with a secure and innovative financial instrument backed by the Ministry of Finance.
    2. KuCoin Leads the Charge
      KuCoin is the first global crypto exchange to support the G-Token program, showcasing its commitment to bridging traditional finance with the digital economy.
    3. Powerful Partnerships
      KuCoin partnered with XSpring Digital, KuCoin Thailand, SIX Network, and Krungthai XSpring to create a collaborative ecosystem supporting the subscription, redemption, and listing of the G-Token.
    4. Democratizing Investment Access
      Traditionally, government bonds required high minimum investments, limiting participation. The G-Token removes these barriers, enabling retail and institutional investors to join the market.
    5. Blockchain Transparency
      By leveraging blockchain, the G-Token ensures verifiable, immutable records, reduces operational costs, and improves efficiency for investors and regulators alike.
    6. Enhanced Liquidity and Market Reach
      KuCoin will oversee secondary market trading and provide technology advisory, boosting liquidity while expanding the G-Token’s access to international markets.
    7. Thailand Sets a Regional Example
      The program positions Thailand as Southeast Asia’s leader in digital finance, showing how blockchain can modernize traditional markets while maintaining investor protection.
    8. Pioneering Financial Innovation
      The G-Token project reinforces KuCoin’s role as a global pioneer in Real-World Asset tokenization, creating a model for other nations to follow and opening new avenues for investors worldwide.

    Thailand’s G-Token initiative, supported by KuCoin, is more than a digital bond. It is a bold step toward inclusive, transparent, and globally connected finance, demonstrating how traditional capital can thrive in the blockchain era.

  • 中国承诺援助缅甸地震灾区

    中国承诺援助缅甸地震灾区

    中国国家主席习近平向缅甸军政府首脑表示慰问,此前缅甸发生强烈地震,已造成至少 1000 人遇难。

    习近平对灾害造成的破坏表示深切哀悼,并承诺提供援助,支持受灾地区,中国外交部表示。

    周五,缅甸实皆西北发生 7.7 级地震,随后发生 6.7 级余震,造成大范围破坏。

    建筑物、桥梁和道路严重受损,缅甸第二大城市曼德勒受灾严重。

    此次地震还波及中国云南省及泰国,曼谷一栋 30 层在建大楼倒塌,约 100 名工人被困。

    应缅甸军政府罕见的国际援助请求,中国派出 82 人救援队,并从云南派遣额外救援人员。

    北京宣布向缅甸提供 1.38 亿人民币紧急人道援助,物资将于周一开始运送。

    缅甸多年内战削弱了灾害应对能力,过去军政府曾拒绝外国援助。

    中国外交部称,目前暂无中国公民伤亡报告。

  • 泰国希望借鉴新疆治理多民族社会的经验

    泰国希望借鉴新疆治理多民族社会的经验

    泰国副总理兼国防部长普坦·威差亚猜本周在与中国官员会谈时表示,泰国希望借鉴新疆治理多民族社会的经验。

    周三,普坦在喀什会见了新疆维吾尔自治区党委书记马兴瑞。

    据泰国公共广播服务公司报道,泰国代表团包括高级官员和媒体代表,在当地官员陪同下参观了被遣返维吾尔族人的住所。

    此次访问是泰中达成的一项协议的一部分,泰国同意遣返40名维吾尔族人,他们在逃离中国后被泰国边境控制部门拘留,已被关押十多年,据称他们试图前往拥有大量维吾尔族人口的土耳其。

    马兴瑞表示,希望进一步加强新疆与泰国地方层面的交流与合作。

  • Thai Police Arrest Japanese Man Linked to International Scam Network

    Thai Police Arrest Japanese Man Linked to International Scam Network

    Thai authorities have arrested Tetsuya Yamaguchi, a 46-year-old Japanese man suspected of operating an international scam network.

    Yamaguchi was apprehended last Friday at his rented condominium in central Bangkok following a request from Japanese police, who seek him for fraud and organized crime charges.

    Investigators found connections between Yamaguchi and call center scams operating in Cambodia and Vietnam.

    His visa was revoked, and he is set to be extradited to Japan in early April.

    Four other Japanese suspects with criminal records were also found during the raid, including one managing a front company for money laundering.

    Southeast Asia has become a hub for multi-billion-dollar online and phone scams, particularly in Myanmar, Cambodia, and Laos, where workers — many coerced — run romance, casino, and investment schemes.

    Myanmar has intensified its crackdown on scam compounds under pressure from China, leading to the rescue of thousands of trafficked workers.

    Since late February, around 4,500 people have been repatriated through Thailand, including over 3,000 Chinese nationals.

  • Albon Backs Potential Thai Grand Prix as F1 Eyes Bangkok Race

    Albon Backs Potential Thai Grand Prix as F1 Eyes Bangkok Race

    Thailand’s Formula One driver Alex Albon expressed excitement over a potential Grand Prix in his home country, pledging to support efforts to make it a reality.

    Albon has followed developments after F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali met Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra on Tuesday to discuss the possibility of hosting a race in Bangkok.

    Domenicali, recently extended as F1’s chief until 2029, is exploring new markets amid the sport’s rising global popularity.

    Albon aims to speak with Domenicali during this week’s Chinese Grand Prix, emphasizing his eagerness to showcase Thailand’s culture and cuisine to the F1 world.

    Currently, Singapore is the only Southeast Asian host, known for its grueling conditions, and a Bangkok street race could present similar challenges.

    Following talks with Domenicali, the Thai prime minister announced plans for a feasibility study, highlighting potential benefits for tourism, infrastructure, and industry.

    Thailand now emerges as a contender for future slots in F1’s packed 24-race calendar.