Research Facility Activities
Enhancing the Quality of Research Publications in Carbon Neutrality and Sustainability By Prof. Ricky Y. K. Chan
School of Management, Walailak University Moves Forward to Elevate Research to the International Level Under the Project for Strengthening Research Capability and Developing Institutional Collaboration Networks (International Collaboration), this initiative aims to enhance the quality and standards of research outputs to meet international benchmarks. The School had the great honor of welcoming Prof. Ricky Y. K. Chan, Associate Dean (Education), The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, as a distinguished speaker for a special lecture titled “Enhancing the Quality of Research Publications in Carbon Neutrality and Sustainability.” The session was held on October 29, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 4:30 PM at the Chor Pradu Conference Room, Walailak University Medical Center Hospital. This event was organized under the Reinventing Project for Enhancing Thai Universities into the International Education System, supported by the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI). Its main objectives were to: 1. Exchange knowledge and techniques: Provide opportunities for faculty members and researchers to engage with Prof. Ricky Y. K. Chan—an expert with extensive experience in publishing in international journals—to gain insights, techniques, and strategies for developing high-quality research publications that meet global standards. 2. Foster international research collaboration: Serve as a key platform for establishing international research partnerships between Walailak University and leading higher education institutions worldwide. 3. Enhance knowledge in key global issues: Focus on advancing understanding and expertise in Carbon Neutrality and Sustainability, two of the most critical global challenges, to further promote the development of high-quality research and academic publications. This activity not only contributes to elevating the research quality of the School of Management and Walailak University but also opens new opportunities for building international research and innovation networks between universities and the private sector. Ultimately, it supports Walailak University’s vision of becoming a sustainable international university in the near
WBS Internationalization Driven: Navigating Institutional Change By Prof. Dr. Marina Grusevaja
Walailak University’s School of Management Forges Ahead with International Collaboration under Reinventing Project On October 8, 2025, the School of Management at Walailak University hosted a special lecture titled “WBS Internationalization Driven: Navigating Institutional Change – Lessons for Universities and Businesses.” The talk was delivered by Prof. Dr. Marina Grusevaja from Wiesbaden Business School, Rheinmain University of Applied Sciences in Germany. This event was organized as part of the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI)’s Reinventing Project for Enhancing Thai Universities into the International Education System. During the event, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Siwarit Pongsakornrungsilp, Vice President of Walailak University, and faculty members from the School of Management held discussions with Prof. Dr. Grusevaja. They exchanged ideas on future collaborations, including student exchange programs, joint curriculum development, and research partnerships. The atmosphere was warm and constructive, with many faculty members from various disciplines within the School of Management in attendance. This reflects the school’s commitment to driving internationalization and developing academic partnerships to create innovation and sustainability on a global scale. Venue: Meeting Room 2/1, Prof. Dr. Wichit Srisa-an Building, Administrative Building, Walailak University. #WBS #WBSWU #WalailakUniversity #INTERNATIONALIZATIONDRIVEN #SchoolOfManagement #WalailakUniversity Facebook Comments
Walailak University Business School strengthens academic collaboration with leading institutions in Hong Kong
Walailak University Business School strengthens academic collaboration with leading institutions in Hong Kong On 24 July 2025, the Walailak University Business School continued to strengthen its international collaboration with leading higher education institutions in Hong Kong. The delegation was led by Associate Professor Dr. Siwarit Pongsakornrungsilp, Vice President of Walailak University and Acting Head of the Digital Marketing Program, in his role as the key driver of the Reinventing University Project. The delegation members included: Ms. Niramol Rawangngam, Assistant Dean for Public Relations and Student Recruitment Asst. Prof. Dr. Sasawalai Tontaveeteemsakul, Lecturer, Digital Marketing and Branding Program During this visit, the delegation visited the College of Professional and Continuing Education (CPCE), one of the key academic units under the governance of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU). CPCE plays a vital role in professional education and continuing education, and is recognized as a high-potential academic partner at the international level. The Walailak delegation was warmly welcomed by CPCE executives and held an in-depth discussion on potential collaborations with: Professor Peter P. Yuen – Dean Ricky Chan – Assistant Dean (Education), CPCE, and Professor, Division of Business and Hospitality Management Dr. Pimtong Tavitiyaman – Principal Lecturer and Associate Division Head, Division of Business and Hospitality Management The meeting focused on key areas such as research collaboration, curriculum development, and academic partnerships, as well as opportunities for student and faculty exchange programs in the future. These efforts aim to enhance academic capacity and elevate the quality of education at Walailak University to meet global standards. #WBSWU #SMWU #ReinventingUniversity#WalailakBusinessSchool Facebook Comments
Walailak University Business School visited Hong Kong Metropolitan University (HKMU)
On 24 July 2025, Associate Professor Dr. Siwarit Pongsakornrungsilp, Vice President of Walailak University and Acting Head of Digital Marketing Program, as the key driver of the Reinventing University Project, led a delegation of executives and faculty members from Walailak University to Hong Kong to strengthen international academic collaboration. The delegation included: Ms. Niramol Rawangngam, Assistant Dean for Public Relations and Student Recruitment Asst. Prof. Dr. Sasawalai Tontaveeteemsakul, Lecturer, Digital Marketing and Branding Program During this visit, the delegation from Walailak University was warmly welcomed by the Mainland and International Affairs Office of Hong Kong Metropolitan University (HKMU). Representatives from HKMU who officially attended the meeting included: Mr. Thomas Lee – Senior Lecturer, Lee Shau Kee School of Business and Administration Ms. Connie Kwee – Manager, Strategic Initiatives Ms. Connie Chan – Assistant Manager, Mainland and International Affairs Office Ms. Betty Yang – Assistant Officer, Mainland and International Affairs Office The intensive two-hour meeting provided a valuable opportunity for both institutions to exchange ideas and discuss future collaborations, including: Student and faculty exchange programs Joint development of undergraduate and postgraduate curricula Establishment of collaborative research networks in areas of shared expertise In addition, the delegation had the opportunity to tour HKMU’s facilities, experience the real classroom environment, and exchange insights on educational technologies. This visit has sparked new perspectives on curriculum development and enhanced learning experiences, reinforcing Walailak University’s commitment to advancing towards global standards. #WBSWU #SMWU #ReinventingUniversity#WalailakBusinessSchool Facebook Comments
Research Project by Walailak University Wins Honorable Mention at Thailand Research Expo 2025
Research Project by Walailak University Wins Honorable Mention at Thailand Research Expo 2025 A Model for Transforming Faith-Based Waste into Thai Creative Soft Power On 20 June 2025, at the Thailand Research Expo 2025, held at Centara Grand and Bangkok Convention Centre, CentralWorld, Bangkok,the research project titled“Cultural Capital Management Based on Belief Systems Surrounding the Ancient Sand Dune”, also known as the “Srichon Project”, from Walailak University,was awarded an Honorable Mention, accompanied by a cash prize of 20,000 THB and a certificate of recognition. The award was presented by Professor Dr. Supachai Pathumnakul, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research, and Innovation (MHESI). The award was received byAssociate Professor Dr. Siwarit Phongsakornrangsin,Vice President of Walailak Universityand Head of the Digital Marketing and Branding Program, School of Management,who also serves as the Principal Investigator of the project, along with his research team. The project is a collaborative effort between Walailak University, Wat Chedi (Ai Khai), local communities, and regional networks, with support from the Program Management Unit for Area-Based Development (PMU-A). The core concept centers on faith as a foundation for developing high-value creative products, including: 🔸 “Firecracker-Tail Bag” – Crafted from 999 firecracker tails per bag, combining traditional weaving techniques with contemporary fashion.🔸 “Merit Brick” – Eco-friendly construction bricks made from firecracker debris and plaster rooster remnants.🔸 “Faith Rooster Art Toys” – Repurposed plaster rooster figures turned into collectible characters: Nong Ramruay (Richie), Nong Rai-Ram (Dancer), and Nong Ra-Rerng (Cheerful), inspired by Nora performing arts and Thai–Chinese culture. The Srichon Project serves as a national model for creatively addressing waste generated by religious practices. It promotes Thai soft power through culturally meaningful products, provides economic opportunities for local communities, and offers a sustainable solution to temple waste management challenges. #WBSWU #SMWU#SrichonProject #ThaiSoftPower #ThailandResearchExpo2025#WalailakUniversitySchoolOfManagement Facebook Comments
School of Management Presents Special Talk on the Thailand Research Expo 2025
Tuesday, 17 June 2025 Associate Professor Dr. Siwarit Phongsakornrangsin, Vice President of Walailak University and Head of the Digital Marketing and Branding Program at the School of Management, was honored to lead a special talk on the Highlight Stage at the Thailand Research Expo 2025, held at the Bangkok Convention Centre, Centara Grand at CentralWorld, Bangkok. The talk was based on the research project titled “Cultural Capital Management Based on Local Belief Systems Surrounding the Ancient Sand Dune: Enhancing the Local Economy in Sichon District, Nakhon Si Thammarat.” The project is jointly led by Associate Professor Dr. Siwarit Phongsakornrangsin and Associate Professor Prachya Krisanaphan, Deputy Dean of the School of Architecture and Design. Together, they play key roles in driving the concept of transforming faith into economy—creating value from ritual remnants and turning them into culturally and economically impactful products. During the session, Dr. Siwarit presented ideas on how to creatively repurpose local wisdom, spiritual beliefs, and ritual objects—such as used firecracker tails and plaster roosters from vow redemption ceremonies—into innovative products that help promote Thailand’s soft power. Outstanding examples include: “Success Firecracker-Tail Bag” – Fashionable bags made from redeemed firecracker tails “Merit Brick” – Eco-friendly construction materials made from firecracker and plaster rooster fragments “Faith Rooster Art Toy” – Contemporary art toys crafted from recycled plaster roosters The project involved more than 30 researchers from Walailak University, along with interdisciplinary experts, including scholars from the Thai for Communication program, who also participated in the session and presented creative outputs. This presentation reaffirmed Dr. Siwarit Phongsakornrangsin’s visionary leadership in advancing research for local development, establishing a model for leveraging cultural capital to generate economic value, and expanding its impact to national and international arenas in a sustainable manner. #WBSWU #SMWU#WalailakUniversitySchoolOfManagement Facebook Comments
School of Management Presents High-Quality Research at the “Walailak – Senate” Collaboration
School of Management Presents High-Quality Research at the “Walailak – Senate” Collaboration Platform Linking Academic Knowledge to Policy Development On 16 June 2025, Walailak University hosted a study visit and discussion session as part of a collaborative initiative between the Senate Secretariat Office and Walailak University, aimed at linking academic research and knowledge to support evidence-based policy development. The event took place at Moklan Conference Room, Professor Dr. Vitit Srisaan Building, Walailak University. The event was honored by a welcome speech from Professor Dr. Sombat Thamrongthanyawong, President of Walailak University, and an opening address by Mr. Peerapot Rattanamalee, Deputy Secretary-General of the Senate. Following the opening ceremony, a policy-focused discussion was held under the topic:“Strategic Direction for Academic–Government Collaboration in Developing a Research-Based Policy Platform”The discussion emphasized the co-creation of a shared academic database and the integration of research outcomes into the public policy process. A key highlight of the event was the presentation of selected research projects by Walailak University faculty members. Notably, research from the School of Management garnered strong interest, including: “Marketing Development for the Tourism and Service Industry in High-Quality Health Tourism Routes”by Associate Professor Dr. Siwarit PhongsakornrangsinThis project aims to elevate the health tourism sector by designing products and services that meet the needs of high-end tourists. It also focuses on developing a sustainable marketing model rooted in research-based data and insights. “Upgrading Tourism Database Management and Promoting Local Identity Towards a Provincial Branding Strategy in Krabi and Adjacent Areas”by Assistant Professor Dr. Phimlapat PhongsakornrangsinThis study highlights strategic database management for area-based tourism, with an emphasis on transforming cultural and service-based strengths into provincial identity to enhance long-term sustainability in Andaman coastal regions. These research presentations demonstrated Walailak University’s capacity to generate impactful academic work that aligns with national policy needs and provides practical value
Warm Welcome Extended to Akron Students Upon Arrival at Nakhon Si Thammarat to participate in the WU & Akron Study Abroad Program 2025
On May 22, 2025 A delegation of students and faculty members from the University of Akron, United States, arrived at Nakhon Si Thammarat Airport to participate in the WU & Akron Study Abroad Program 2025, hosted by Walailak University from May 22 to June 1, 2025, in Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand. The delegation was warmly welcomed by representatives from Walailak University, led by: Assistant Professor Dr. Pimlapat Phongsakornrungslip, Dean of the School of Management, and Associate Professor Dr. Siwarit Phongsakornrungslip, Head of the Digital Marketing and Branding Program, together with faculty members, staff, and students participating in the program. The WU & Akron Study Abroad Program aims to enhance cross-cultural understanding, foster academic development, and strengthen institutional collaboration between the two universities. Throughout the program, Akron students will engage in immersive cultural experiences and benefit from high-quality international academic exposure. Walailak University remains dedicated to promoting international educational exchange and cultivating strong partnerships with global academic institutions, with the vision of providing students with enriched academic and intercultural experiences that contribute to sustainable global citizenship. #SMWU #สำนักวิชาการจัดการมหาวิทยาลัยวลัยลักษณ์ Facebook Comments
Participated in the opening ceremony of the Language and Cultural Learning Experience Program in Taiwan
Students from the Tourism and Hospitality Program, School of Management, Walailak Universityparticipated in the opening ceremony of the 2025 Language and Cultural Learning Experience Program in Taiwan, held from April 19 to 30, 2025. The group was led by:✨ Assoc. Prof. Dr. Oranong Chiebleam(Deputy Dean of the School of Management)✨ Dr. Sukhumarn Klamsaengsai(Assistant Dean for Student Affairs, School of Management)along with staff members from the School of Management. They traveled to the Republic of China (Taiwan) to take part in a special Short Program. A total of 40 third-year students from the Bachelor of Business Administration (Digital Tourism and Hospitality Management) program joined this initiative, which aimed to strengthen international collaboration at Hungkuang University, Taiwan. During the visit, both institutions also discussed future student exchange opportunities to enhance international learning experiences and broaden global education opportunities for students. #WBSWU#SMWU#SchoolOfManagementWalailakUniversity Facebook Comments
Strengthening International Collaboration at Hungkuang University, Taiwan
📌 The School of Management strengthened its international collaboration efforts at Hungkuang University, Taiwan, on April 21, 2025.The delegation was led by:✨ Assoc. Prof. Dr. Siwarit Phongsakornrangsin(Vice President of Walailak University)together with✨ Asst. Prof. Dr. Phimlapat Phongsakornrangsin(Dean of the School of Management)✨ Assoc. Prof. Dr. Oranong Chiebleam(Deputy Dean of the School of Management)✨ Asst. Prof. Supicha Wilaisri(Assistant Dean for International Affairs)✨ Dr. Sukhumarn Klamsaengsai(Assistant Dean for Student Affairs)and administrative staff of the School of Management. The delegation visited Hungkuang University in Taichung, Taiwan, a partner institution under a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The purpose of the visit was to discuss strategies for promoting faculty and student exchanges, as well as to develop international research collaborations. The aim is to provide opportunities for faculty and students to engage in joint research projects with partner universities and publish in high-quality academic journals. Furthermore, the collaboration supports the development of a stronger international research network through the International Leadership in Education and Research Network (iLEARN) and the Reinventing University Project for the 2025 fiscal year. This visit marks another significant milestone in the School of Management’s continuous effort to drive international academic collaboration forward. Facebook Comments
WalaiLak Research Convention 2025 “ Driving the collaboration of sustainability And blue carbon research”
WalaiLak Research Convention 2025 (WRC2025)“Driving the Collaboration of Sustainability and Blue Carbon Research”Thursday, March 27, 2025, at Khao Luang Conference Room, Cooperative Education Building, Walailak University The conference was opened byAssoc. Prof. Dr. Mallika Jaroensutasinee, Vice President of Walailak University.The report was presented byAssoc. Prof. Dr. Pimlapas Phongsakornrungsilp, Acting Dean of the Faculty of Management Science. This event was held under the cooperation and support of six organizations: School of Management School of Science Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research, and Innovation Center of Excellence for Tourism Business Management and Creative Economy Center of Excellence for Ecoinformatics There were a total of 165 participants both online and onsite. The activities included an engaging discussion during Special Session I:“Driving Sustainability and Blue Carbon in the Andaman and Ao Thai Coastal Areas”, which featured a Roundtable Discussion on driving collaboration in sustainability and blue carbon research, led by: Prof. Dr. Vikas Kumar Dr. Annette Jaya-Ram Asst. Prof. Dr. Pimlapas Pongsakornrungsilp Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mallika Jaroensutasinee We would like to express our heartfelt thanks to the speakers for sharing their valuable insights during these impactful sessions. Following this, Section II: Research Project focused on two main themes: Theme I: Driving Sustainability through Blue Carbon in the Andaman and Ao Thai Coastal Areas Theme II: Blue Carbon and Sustainable Tourism Research Presentations included: Unlocking the Future: How SMEs Can Drive Sustainability Through Digital Innovation in the Circular Economy? Citizen Observation of Local Litter in Coastal Ecosystems Blue & Green Synergy: Sustainability Practices for Hotel Businesses in the Andaman Islands Exploring the Enablers and Challenges of Employee Engagement in Sustainability within the Hotel Industry Sustainability Research for a Thriving and Resilient Future Oral Presentations included: Unlocking Sustainable Development in the Andaman and Ao Thai Coastal Areas A New Life: A Study into the Process of
Walailak University Launches the “Infinity Rich” Spiritual Tourism Route in Sichon, Nakhon Si Thammarat
Walailak University Launches the “Infinity Rich” Spiritual Tourism Route in Sichon, Nakhon Si Thammarat 31 January – 2 February 2025 Walailak University has unveiled a new tourism route “Infinity Rich,” which connects eight key attractions in Sichon District, Nakhon Si Thammarat Province. Centered around Wat Chedi, the route invites spiritual travelers to experience rituals believed to bring good fortune, boost tourism activity, and sustainably distribute income to local communities—with support from the Program Management Unit on Area Based Development (PMUA) Fund. Associate Professor Dr. Siwarit Pongsakornrungsilp, Vice President of Walailak University, revealed that from 31 January to 2 February 2025, the university, in collaboration with Wat Chedi (Ai Khai), the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s Nakhon Si Thammarat Office, local government bodies, educational institutions, community groups, and the Program Management Unit on Area Based Development, officially launched the tourism route “Sichon Spiritual Trip: Heal Heart, Heal Life and Heal Luck @ Sichon Infinity Rich.” This initiative is part of the research project titled “Management of Cultural Belief-based Capital Around the Ancient Sand Ridge to Elevate the Local Community Economy in Sichon District, Nakhon Si Thammarat (Srichon),” supported by PMUA, and has attracted enthusiastic participation from tourists, media, and tourism entrepreneurs alike. Associate Professor Dr. Siwarit explained that the research team at Walailak University observed that visitors to Wat Chedi primarily come to pay respects, offer prayers, and seek fulfillment. Accordingly, the development of a tourism route that links the cultural capital of Sichon District was designed to resonate with local beliefs and faith—not only within Sichon but also in neighboring districts. This insight led to the creation of the Infinity Rich route, alongside the collaborative development of the Srichon brand, which symbolizes the prosperity, auspiciousness, fulfillment, and progress of the ancient sand ridge in Sichon District. The Infinity Rich route consists
Mitsubishi Corporation Signs MOU with Walailak University to Support the Launch of Carbon Neutral Tourism CSR Project in Krabi
Mitsubishi Corporation Signs MOU with Walailak University to Support the Launch of Carbon Neutral Tourism CSR Project in Krabi Mitsubishi Corporation, Japan, and Walailak University’s School of Management signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to support the launch of a carbon neutral tourism corporate social responsibility (CSR) project in Krabi Province, backed by a one-million-baht grant. On October 1, 2024, Professor Dr. Sombat Thamrongthanyawong, President of Walailak University; Associate Professor Dr. Siwarit Pongsakornrungsilp, Vice President; Assistant Professor Dr. Pimlapas Pongsakornrungsilp, Acting Dean of the School of Management; and executives welcomed Mitsubishi Corporation, led by Mr. Hiroyasu Sato, President of Mitsubishi Company (Thailand) Ltd., during their visit to Walailak University at the Honor Hall. Assistant Professor Dr. Pimlapas Pongsakornrungsilp said that Mitsubishi Corporation, Japan, and Walailak University signed the MOU for a CSR project supporting carbon neutral tourism in Krabi, based on research funded by the Program Management Unit for Competitiveness (PMUC). The project aims to assist the business sector in reducing carbon footprints, conserving the environment, and promoting sustainable tourism industry in Thailand. Mitsubishi Corporation has provided Walailak University with one million baht to support carbon neutral tourism-related research, human resources development, and awareness campaigns in Krabi Province. The School of Management plays a part in promoting carbon neutral tourism through training programs and workshops by experts from Walailak University. These programs aim to raise awareness and enhance the capabilities of stakeholders, including transport operators, hotels, tour companies, restaurants, and local communities in supporting sustainable tourism. “This collaboration will provide opportunities for knowledge exchange and hands-on experience for students, academics, and faculty members. It will strengthen skills, promote knowledge, and enhance competitiveness on an international scale, while supporting the growth of carbon neutral tourism in Krabi and sustainable economic development,” said Dean Pimlapas. Facebook Comments
Walailak University offers Free Educational Outreach: Low-Carbon Tourism for Sustainability in the “Nipa Palm” Agricultural Area of Khanap Nak Community, Pak Panang District, Nakhon Si Thammarat Province
Walailak University offers Free Educational Outreach: Low-Carbon Tourism for Sustainability in the “Nipa Palm” Agricultural Area of Khanap Nak Community, Pak Panang District, Nakhon Si Thammarat Province On August 3, 2024, the School of Management at Walailak University organized a field study program to provide free educational opportunities to local community members about low-carbon tourism in the agricultural area “Nipa Palm” in the Khanab Naak community, Pak Phanang District, Nakhon Si Thammarat Province, Thailand, in order to promote tourism and sustainability. The School of Management has carried out four major activities, as follows: Preliminary survey of needs for tourism activities that promote sustainability of the agricultural area “Nipa Palm” Since June 2024, the School of Management, led by Dr. Sukhuman Klamsaengsai, has surveyed the needs of the community through interviews and focus group meetings on the implementation of activities that promote the sustainability of the nipa palm agricultural area by using sustainable tourism activities under the concept of low-carbon tourism as one of the tools to care for the “Nipa Palm” resource of Khanap Nak community, Pak Phanang District, Nakhon Si Thammarat Province. It was discovered that the villagers were interested in and wanted to know information about the management guidelines for the use of nipa palm forest areas through low-carbon tourism activities, as well as knowledge about carbon footprints, carbon Absorption, and carbon credits in nipa palm forest areas to be useful in caring for nipa palm forest resources appropriately. Assessment of basic knowledge and understanding about low carbon tourism in “Nipa Palm” agricultural area In addition, a team of instructors and staff created a field survey tool to gather questionnaires from 150 village representatives in Khanap Nak Subdistrict’s nine villages to assess their fundamental knowledge and awareness of low-carbon tourism and carbon-related issues. The study discovered that
The School of Management is delighted to welcome 11 students and Dr. Nigel Chang from James Cook University, Australia between 20 June – 1 July 2024
The School of Management is delighted to welcome 11 students and Dr. Nigel Chang from James Cook University, Australia between 20 June – 1 July 2024 They had the opportunity to immerse themselves in Thai culture, practice cooking delicious Thai dishes and desserts at our Pro Chef kitchen, and study Eco-tourism in Krabi Province, Thailand, with a focus on sustainable travel development. A special thanks to the five students from our School of Management who served as buddies for the JCU students throughout the program. Your hospitality and support made this experience unforgettable! May the bond between Walailak University and James Cook University continue to grow stronger. #WalailakUniversity #JamesCookUniversity #CulturalExchange #GlobalFriendship Facebook Comments