PATA Celebrates TCEB and DASTA’s Remarkable Milestone

Celebrating Success: TCEB and DASTA’s New Chapter

The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), in collaboration with the PATA Thailand Chapter and Centara Grand at CentralWorld, co-organised a special gathering to recognise two key figures in Thailand’s tourism sector: Chiruit Isarangkun Na Ayuthaya, who recently completed his tenure as President of the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB), and Siripakorn Cheawsamoot, the newly appointed Director General of the Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration (DASTA).

Held on Tuesday, June 17, at the CRU Champagne Bar — the rooftop venue of Centara Grand at CentralWorld — the event served as both a farewell and a welcome, highlighting transitions in leadership within the tourism community.

“Today, I am honoured to acknowledge two of PATA’s close collaborators, both of whom have made significant contributions to our shared mission,” said PATA Chair Peter Semone.

“While we mark the conclusion of Khun Chiruit’s tenure at TCEB, our appreciation for his contributions continues. We also extend our sincere congratulations to Khun Siripakorn and look forward to ongoing cooperation with him and the team at DASTA.”

Ben Montgomery, Corporate Ambassador of Centara Hotels & Resorts, Executive Board Member of PATA, and Chairperson of the PATA Thailand Chapter, added, “The PATA network continues to focus on fostering collaboration and mutual support within the tourism community. At this moment of transition, we are reminded of the importance of engaging both emerging and experienced leaders from across sectors to help shape a resilient and inclusive future for our industry.”

During his tenure at TCEB, Chiruit Isarangkun Na Ayuthaya played a pivotal role in expanding Thailand’s presence in the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) sector. His engagement with PATA included co-hosting signature events such as the PATA Travel Marts and PATA Destination Marketing Forums, with an emphasis on strategic alignment and knowledge sharing.

Siripakorn Cheawsamoot, previously Deputy Governor for International Marketing (Europe, the Americas, the Middle East, and Africa) at the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), has consistently supported PATA’s efforts, especially in the field of sustainable tourism. His new leadership role at DASTA — a long-standing PATA partner — is expected to build on shared goals in sustainable destination development and regional cooperation.

The evening also brought together key figures from Thailand’s tourism and hospitality sectors, including Thapanee Kiatphaibool, Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand, and Supawan Teerarat, President of the National Food Institute.