Annual Report 2017

7 can connect the business sector with the social sector through various activities including ongoing sessions from business executives to share knowledge, experience, and successful business models. Furthermore, SET has also supported cooperation among all the three sectors: the government, private and social sectors under the so-called “Pracharath” Public-Private Partnership program initiated by the government to ultimately accelerate the Thai economy and society to achieve strong and sustainable growth. Growing with quality excellence and sustainability has consistently been key focus of the exchange. SET has encouraged listed companies to conduct business by taking into consideration the environmental, social and governance (ESG) aspects. In 2017, a total of 17 Thai listed companies were outstanding and recognized at international level in being selected as constituents of the Dow Jones Sustainability Indices (DJSI), the highest number of companies in ASEAN. In addition, Thai listed companies also received the 2017 IR Magazine Awards for excellence in investor relations, highest number among ASEAN for the second consecutive year. On top of this, SET continues to promote Thailand Sustainability Investment (THSI) list to encourage listed firms in running business with sustainable business practice, while providing investors an alternative approach for sustainable investment in stocks of companies having positive impact on society and environment. Furthermore, SET has been proactive in cultivating innovative culture among employees, being a role in this respect. In 2017, the SET Innovation Awards project was organized to promote and reward the innovative and practical ideas among employees, and then apply these Dr. Chaiyawat Wibulswasdi Chairman ideas to actual work process. The SET Innovation Awards project will also be organized in 2018 to further promote innovation for the sustainable development of the Thai capital market. For more mileage in promoting listed companies, SET has been motivating listed firms to use innovation and technology to enhance business potential and granting them the Best Innovative Company Awards, as has been granted since 2016, during the annual SET Awards ceremony. Our journey will be according to the three-year strategic framework (2018–2020): “Towards Sustainable Growth with Innovation”. In 2018, SET will focus on sustainable development based on innovation and technology to meet the needs and to enhance efficiency of all the work of all sectors. SET will move forward in accordance with the SET’s corporate strategy, in line with the current Capital Market Development plan and will support the government’s policy in driving the country economy in a sustainable manner. On behalf of The Stock Exchange of Thailand, I would like to thank the government agencies, the private sector, listed companies, member companies, asset management companies, as well as the social sector, investors and the general public. I greatly admire the management and staff of SET whose synergy has enriched the Thai capital market to grow firmly, while endlessly boosting the Thai economy and society towards sustainability.