This summer, One Bangkok served as the venue for the inaugural “Disaster Management Conference: Technology, Innovation, and Research for Effective Disaster Response and Prevention,” convened by the U.S. Embassy Bangkok in partnership with the MIT ASEAN Initiative and the American Chamber of Commerce.
The half-day conference took place at the landmark mixed-use development in Bangkok, bringing together policymakers, academics, NGOs, and private sector leaders from Thailand and across ASEAN to advance disaster management policy and showcase American expertise. The choice of One Bangkok as the venue underscored the event’s focus on preparedness and innovation, as the project is targeting LEED Neighborhood Development Gold and LEED Platinum certifications, with advanced energy-saving systems, rainwater harvesting, on-site wastewater reuse, and extensive shaded, walkable public spaces that promote both community well-being and environmental stewardship. KPF’s design involvement includes four buildings—including One Bangkok Forum, the primary venue for the event—expressing a variety of forms and programs that contribute to a lively urban center.
Opening remarks from U.S. Ambassador Robert F. Godec, Dr. Sorapop Kiatpongsan of the MIT ASEAN Initiative, and Mr. Chatit Huayhongtong, President of AmCham and Chevron Thailand, highlighted the importance of international collaboration and innovation—values reflected in One Bangkok’s smart city infrastructure and sustainable design. Keynotes and panels, including representatives from One Bangkok, explored how technology and design can strengthen resilience against climate and seismic risks, making the development an ideal setting for this forward-looking, multi-national exchange of ideas.
