Thai politicos Paetongtarn, Thaksin, and Srettha will share their visions of Thai influence at the 2025 forum, discussing soft power strategies.
The Splash - Soft Power Forum 2025, taking place from July 8 to 11 at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre in Bangkok, is set to explore the role of soft power in shaping Thailand's national identity, economic growth, and global engagement. The four-day event, co-hosted by the Ministry of Culture, the National Soft Power Committee, and its subcommittees, with support from the private sector, local communities, and global networks, aims to inspire new generations and foster regional and international collaboration.
The key themes at the forum focus on tourism, sports, Thai cultural identity, and the broader role of soft power as a driver of national identity. The event highlights how creative industries, cultural exchange, innovation, and sustainability contribute to strengthening Thailand's global cultural presence and economic value.
The forum is structured around immersive zones, including the Creative Culture Village, THACCA Pavilion, and Glo-Cal Networking. The Creative Culture Village is an interactive showcase of 14 Thai creative industries, while the THACCA Pavilion serves as a central hub of knowledge, strategy, and branding tools for advancing Thailand's identity through soft power. The Glo-Cal Networking area is intended to facilitate connections between global and local stakeholders.
Prominent Thai political and cultural figures will deliver keynote speeches. Paetongtarn Shinawatra, the suspended Prime Minister and Culture Minister, will deliver a keynote titled "Thailand Rising: Tourism, Education and the New Soft Power Frontier" on July 8. Thaksin Shinawatra, former Prime Minister and Paetongtarn's father, will speak on "Crafting the Future: From OTOP to ThaiWORKS and Beyond" on July 9. Srettha Thavisin, another former premier, will join the dialogue on the future of Thai soft power, including tourism and sports sectors.
The forum will also feature discussions on rethinking Thai sports in a disruptive era and the role of community-based enterprises and programs in supporting local culture and economic development. Notable participants include legendary Muay Thai boxer Buakaw Banchamek and two-time Olympic gold medallist in taekwondo Panipak Wongpattanakit.
In addition to presentations and discussions, the Splash - Soft Power Forum 2025 will offer hands-on learning opportunities under the "One Family One Soft Power (OFOS)" initiative, connecting youth and entrepreneurs with industry experts. The event will also feature a Visionary Stage, where leading experts from 14 soft power industries will share ideas aimed at inspiring new generations. A business matchmaking zone will be established to connect local and international entrepreneurs with investors.
An immersive exhibition titled Multisensory Mindfulness Experiences will engage all five senses to reimagine Thai soft power through innovation. The forum will also address the pressing issue of severe flooding and mudslides affecting 33 Thai provinces this week.
As the Splash - Soft Power Forum 2025 unfolds, it promises to be a dynamic and engaging event that will shape the future of Thailand's soft power, tourism, sports, and cultural identity.
- The Creative Culture Village at the Splash - Soft Power Forum 2025 is an interactive showcase of 14 Thai creative industries, providing a platform for fostering regional and international collaboration.
- The Glo-Cal Networking area is designed to facilitate connections between global and local stakeholders, promoting both cultural exchange and economic development.
- The forum will feature discussions on rethinking Thai sports in a disruptive era, with notable participants such as legendary Muay Thai boxer Buakaw Banchamek and two-time Olympic gold medallist Panipak Wongpattanakit.
- In addition to presentations and discussions, the Splash - Soft Power Forum 2025 offers hands-on learning opportunities and a business matchmaking zone to inspire new generations and support local economies through international partnerships.
