On Thursday, December 12, 2024, Dr. Tej Bunnag, President of the Foundation Asia-Pacific Development Center on Disability (APCD Foundation), participated in the Thailand Friendly Design Expo 2024. This significant event, which is celebrating its 8th edition, brings together leading experts in the fields of accessible architecture, health innovation, and inclusive tourism.
Dr. Tej , a distinguished advocate for inclusive design, played a key role in promoting the theme of the Expo, which is centered on the idea of "Diversity, Unity, One Goal: Inclusivity for All." As part of the opening ceremony, Dr. Tej delivered an inspiring address, opening remarks, sharing his vision of a society where persons with disabilities, seniors, and marginalized groups can fully participate and thrive. His leadership aligns with the Expo’s commitment to raising awareness about the importance of creating environments that are accessible to everyone.
The Thailand Friendly Design Expo 2024, which runs from December 12 to December 15 at BITEC Bangna, serves as an important platform for international and local stakeholders, including architects, policymakers, healthcare professionals, and advocates for social equality. On its opening day, the event featured various high-level activities, such as workshops on architectural diplomacy, as well as the presentation of the Friendly Design Awards 2024, recognizing outstanding contributions to inclusive design.
One of the key highlights was the FTIC 2024 conference, where experts discussed Thailand's potential to become a global hub for health and wellness tourism, emphasizing the growing importance of accessible tourism options. Dr. Tej, a leading voice in the movement for universal access, shared internally inclusive design in both architecture and tourism can create sustainable solutions for all.
Throughout the Expo, Dr. Ten and other experts highlighted the crucial role that inclusive design plays in ensuring equal opportunities for people with disabilities, seniors, and those in need of special accommodations. The APCD Foundation, under Dr. Tej’s leadership, continues to promote these efforts, aiming to create a more equitable society where all people, regardless of their physical abilities, can enjoy the benefits of accessible spaces and services.
The Thailand Friendly Design Expo 2024 underscores the country's commitment to building a society that embraces diversity and inclusion, not only through architectural innovation but also in policies and practices that ensure accessibility for all. The event stands as a testament to the ongoing collaborative efforts in Thailand and across the Asia-Pacific region to create a world where everyone, regardless of age or ability, can live, work, and travel with dignity and equality.
