Janprapa Vichitcholchai, the ever-composed Deputy Director of the Thai Red Cross Fund Raising Bureau, graciously accepted a donation from a diverse cohort of organizations, including representatives of ATA IT, AWS Thailand, Bitkub Group, the British Embassy Bangkok, and Omise. These organizations, despite their different realms, joined hands for a cause that shook not just Myanmar but resonated all the way to Bangkok.
It was an unmissable Saturday on the 26th of April when camaraderie took center stage at Polo Football Park, with an electrifying charity football tournament. This event, a splendid blend of kicks and goals, aimed much higher than scoring in nets — it sought to offer relief and solace to those affected by the mighty M7.7 earthquake that rocked Myanmar in March. As tremors reached the lively streets of Bangkok, they invoked a unity that powered donations exceeding THB 40,000, which were officially received by the Thai Red Cross Society (TRCS) on the brilliant spring afternoon of May 4, 2025.
Crowds cheered for the teams showcasing their sportsmanship, drawn from sectors as varied as technology to global diplomacy. Participants on the pitch included stalwarts such as ATA IT, the innovative provider of IT solutions, Amazon Web Services (AWS) Thailand, a cloud computing juggernaut, Bitkub Group, the torchbearer of digital assets and blockchain technology in Thailand, and Omise, the epitome of fintech innovation.
But organizing this spectacular event was more than just a corporate exercise; it was a heartfelt initiative led by Toby Knight, Communications & Training Manager at ATA IT. Toby shared the essence behind their endeavor, “The earthquake’s impact was deeply felt. Many of our team hail from Myanmar. This tournament embodies our pledge to show solidarity. Our parent entity, the National Bank of Canada, was similarly moved, extending a generous CAD 10,000 (THB 242,723) to the Canadian Red Cross.” A remarkable gesture echoing across borders.
The tale of goodwill didn’t stop there. Omise’s own Kyle Salter, People Operations Manager, SEA, deepened the narrative, emphasizing, “Our commitment to this initiative stems from a fundamental belief in the intrinsic value of humanity. We’re delighted to have united our Thailand team toward a significant cause, standing shoulder to shoulder with the communities rocked by the quake in both Myanmar and Thailand. This event reflects our core values — active empathy, meaningful contribution, and communal support in challenging times. Supporting the Red Cross in its mission to aid affected communities is something we cherish.”
Another zealous advocate, Bernard Obiechina from Omise, echoed, “The swift response, with united efforts from organizations, raising over THB 40,000, signifies our collective empathy. The event amplifies awareness about the urgent humanitarian needs triggered by March’s earthquake.”
The spotlight wasn’t on the football field alone. Thai MFA representative Aeyaya Chorot expressed a deeply resonant sentiment, “As Myanmar’s neighbor and steadfast friend, our resolve is unwavering. This isn’t just fleeting support but an enduring demonstration of unity during adversity, represented beautifully by this charitable tournament.”
Crowning the tournament, the Bitkub Group emerged victorious, though their triumph was more profound, as eloquently put by Artthawit Hung, IT Security Director, “Beyond the game, our hearts are with Myanmar. Aligned with our ESG strategy, we aim to inspire hope alongside financial aid, supporting those in need. It’s our privilege to contribute towards this broader societal responsibility.”
The relief mission marches on, with Thailand extending lifesaving supplies, skilled personnel, and financial support through the TRCS. Notably, the UK government has pledged a notable £25 million to Myanmar, integrating up to £5 million in matched funds for the UK’s Disasters Emergency Committee appeal.
In a world where every act of kindness counts, those wishing to aid Myanmar’s recovery can support the Thai Red Cross Society through their designated channels. For contributions beyond Thai Baht, the International Committee of the Red Cross offers avenues worldwide. More about these efforts can be delved into through the following resources:
It’s heartwarming to see different sectors coming together for such an important cause. Kudos to Janprapa for leading the charge!
Absolutely! It’s like everyone forgot their differences to contribute to something greater. This is what the world needs more of.
Exactly! And considering the magnitude of the earthquake, every bit of support helps.
While it’s great that funds are raised for Myanmar, isn’t THB 40,000 a bit too low considering all the big companies involved?
I was thinking the same. You’d expect larger figures from these companies, wouldn’t you?
Exactly, Kelly. It’s like they just organized it for show rather than substance.
Keep in mind, the gesture itself also encourages others to contribute in different ways.
The charity underscores a broader conversation about the principles of corporate philanthropy in regions frequently hit by natural disasters.
True, it’s crucial that companies regularly contribute to sustainable efforts rather than one-off events.
Absolutely! Long-term engagement is essential for real change.
I think these events are mostly about networking rather than actual help.
Am I the only one who thinks that football and charity don’t mix well? It’s like mixing oil and water.
Are you kidding? Sports are a universal language and bring people together!
Well, I guess if it works, it works!
Sports are a great medium for charity. They captivate large audiences, drawing attention to causes otherwise unnoticed.
I’m not sure how much of this is actually about charity when you have companies involved who are just in it for the PR.
I hear you, but any publicity that gets more help to Myanmar is okay by me. Sometimes it’s about leveraging what you have.
Fair point, Emily. As long as it genuinely helps, I’m all for it.
Bitkub’s speech about ESG strategy seems like corporate jargon. What’s next, blockchain support for charity?
Seeing international engagement, like the UK’s £25 million, highlights how collaborative these global efforts have become.
Does anyone know how effective these donations really are? Are they just patchwork solutions?
I’ve read different reports, but they do help immediate needs, even if long-term development needs more dedicated programs.
That’s true. Properly planned development programs are crucial long-term.
I doubt anybody here has read the article fully. Everybody’s getting wrapped up in donations and missing the humanitarian side.
It’s really inspiring to see the cross-border humanitarian efforts. Thailand and Myanmar relations foster hope for the region.
I agree! These efforts show ASEAN’s potential for regional support.
SEA nations can accomplish a lot with unity.
The TRCS has always been at the forefront of aid in the region. Their efforts deserve more recognition, regardless of the politics involved.
Beyond the financial figures, how we respond to such calamities defines humanity. Questions of soul outweigh spreadsheets.
Charity and sports have long been tied together, from ancient times to modern. This tradition stands the test of time.