On Wednesday 16 September 2009 from 12.30 to 3.30 p.m., Mrs. Anchulee Gunavibool, spouse of Mr. Nopadol, the Thai Ambassador, hosted a buffet lunch for the members of Ikebana International (Singapore Chapter) at Ambassador’s Residence. The event was attended by Mrs. Yuriko Yamanaka, spouse of the Japanese Ambassador, Mrs. Kazuo Kato Kim, President of Singapore Sogetsu Association, and Mrs. Grace Lau, President of Ikebana International Singapore Chapter 135, together with approximately 30 members. Mrs.Natthiya Kaewtab, spouse of the Defence and Naval Attache of the Royal Thai Embassy and Mrs. Pichaporn Wongsri, spouse of the Army Attache, were on hand to welcome the guests.

The cultural afternoon started off with the introduction of Thai floral art and fruit carving by Mrs. Anchulee, followed by lunch, featuring exquisite and beautifully decorated Thai dishes and desserts. Afterwards, fruits and vegetables carving demonstration by Ms. Siriporn Cherdpan, staff of the Ambassador’s household. While the guests had a hands-on carving practice demonstrated by Chef Seenuan Klinkla and making of hand garlands and krathong (folded banana leaves) by Chef Pankaew Boonmuang. Both Chef Klinkla and Chef Boonmunag are from Sabai Authentic Thai Cuisine Restaurant, courtesy of Khun Jongkolnee Thoboonmee.

Attached is the welcome speech by Mrs. Anchulee Gunavibool on 16 September 2009.