Asset World Corp Public Company Limited (AWC), a leading Thai real estate developer focused on comprehensive lifestyle solutions, has joined forces with Thai Commercial Bank (SCB) to continue their commitment to sustainability. They have signed a cooperation agreement for a Sustainability Linked Loan and a Green Loan totaling 20 billion baht to develop mega-quality projects into a mega global destination. This initiative aims to set new standards to strengthen the real estate and tourism industries, focusing on resource conservation and promoting efficient energy use across all dimensions, creating holistic value for stakeholders throughout the Value Chain. It also supports various initiatives to enhance the sustainability of marine resources and future social development, contributing to making Thailand a global hub for sustainable tourism.

Mr. Krit Chanthanauthok, CEO of SCB, stated, "AWC's continuous investment as a leading real estate developer is a clear indicator of the improving economic future of Thailand. SCB recognizes its role in driving sustainability for Thai society in all dimensions and is pleased to support the Sustainability Linked Loan and Green Loan of 20 billion baht to AWC to support the development of new projects and AWC's sustainability operations. This also aligns with the bank's environmental mission and the SCBX group's goal of achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions from operations by 2030 and from lending and investments by 2050. We believe in AWC's business potential and are confident that this financial support will enhance AWC's business capabilities through the development of quality projects that will excite the real estate sector and support Thailand as a sustainable global tourism destination."

Ms. Nawallapa Traisorat, CEO and Managing Director of AWC, expressed, "AWC is impressed with SCB's commitment and shared vision for sustainability, being the first in the country to issue sustainability-linked loans. We are delighted to partner with SCB to strengthen the economy of the real estate and tourism industries. AWC is committed to developing mega-quality projects into sustainable global destinations, such as the Asiatique project, which will create a sustainable landmark along the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok, the Aquatique project in Pattaya, and the Wang Nakorn Kasem project, a cultural heritage center in Chinatown, as well as the Lan Na Teak project, showcasing the charm of Lanna culture in Chiang Mai. AWC believes that developing these projects into sustainable global destinations will contribute to the country’s policies and strategies to become a leader in sustainable tourism."

AWC is also focused on developing buildings to international green building standards, such as the Innside by Melia Bangkok Sukhumvit, which has received EDGE (Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies) certification, and the InterContinental Chiang Mai Mae Ping, which has received LEED & WELL PRECERTIFIED certification, among various other projects. This is supported by the first sustainability loan from SCB received last year. Currently, AWC has partnered with leading financial institutions to secure over 75% of long-term loans linked to sustainability and aims to increase this to 100% to create a sustainable future for the country.

AWC is driving its business under a sustainable development framework consisting of three pillars and nine dimensions, or 3 BETTERs: 1) BETTER PLANET for a better environment, 2) BETTER PEOPLE for improved quality of life, and 3) BETTER PROSPERITY for a better economy. AWC has continuously undertaken projects to support sustainable development, such as the Sheraton Samui Hotel's crab bank project aimed at increasing biodiversity and the Banyan Tree Krabi's collaboration with the Andaman Foundation to pioneer sustainable community tourism, as well as implementing a circular economy through the reConcept business model that promotes recycling and reusing old furniture and hotel decor to reduce landfill waste, alongside investments in real estate projects that create jobs and income for local communities and support local Thai entrepreneurs for sustainable income opportunities through projects like The GALLERY.

AWC continues to operate under the Energy Efficiency Plan (EEP) in line with the framework of sustainability-linked loans and green loans, focusing on efficient energy use and reducing greenhouse gas emissions through projects such as installing solar panels on rooftops or building tops, switching to energy-saving light bulbs, and enhancing the efficiency of cooling systems and air conditioning across its hotel chain since 2019. Additionally, AWC will develop projects within the framework to obtain international green building standards certifications, such as EDGE, LEED, or WELL, to promote sustainable development while considering environmental impacts through the efficient use of resources.

"This signing reinforces the shared vision of AWC and SCB in conducting business. AWC will continue to implement its sustainability strategy through various initiatives to create long-term value for all stakeholders, including the industry, communities, society, and the nation, under the mission of 'Creating a Better Future,' while being a key force in driving Thailand towards becoming a sustainable global tourism destination," Ms. Nawallapa added.

AWC operates under a continuous sustainable development framework and has participated in various international standards both domestically and internationally, such as receiving an MSCI ESG Rating of "AA," being selected for the Thailand Sustainability Investment (THSI) list by the Stock Exchange of Thailand, and being ranked in the S&P CSA Yearbook 2023 sustainability report for the second consecutive year, recognized as the "Top 1% S&P Global ESG Score 2022," awarded as an "Industry Mover" for sustainability in the hotel, resort, and cruise industry, receiving an "Excellent" rating in corporate governance reporting, recognized as a private sector partner in anti-corruption practices, and ranked as an organization with good corporate governance among listed companies in ASEAN for 2021.