Khun Malai the “father” of Skal Thailand passes away

It was with profound shock that I learned of the passing of Khun Malai Sakolviphak. A former Skal International (SI) Thailand President, SI Bangkok President, and SI Thailand Councillor.

Often referred to as “Mr. Skal,” Khun Malai traveled around the world, single handedly promoting Thailand to 20,000+ Skalleagues and senior tourism executives.

Mr. Robert “Bob” Lee, the outgoing President of SI Bangkok, shared the news with Skal members at yesterday's Annual General Meeting (AGM) at the Dusit Thani Hotel, Bangkok.

"He was my teacher and Skal mentor. He was a friend to so many," said Mr. Lee.

Mr. Brian Sinclair-Thompson, SI Thailand President, who attended yesterday's meeting, commented: "Khun Malai's knowledge and experiences within the Skal movement were unmatched. Thailand and Skal is a poorer place today."

Khun Malai's last employer was Pacific Leisure, Mr. Alwin Zecha, Executive Chairman & Founder Pan-Asia (Pacific Leisure) Travel Group, said, "Khun Malai I first met in the 70s through Pan Am and later with our business links with United Airlines. A man of immense integrity and honesty, it was my pleasure and honor to have been associated with Khun Malai Sakolviphak."

The new incoming President of Skal International Bangkok, Mr. Dale Lawrence, said, "Khun Malai was an absolute gentleman, and he was very helpful to me when I first joined Skal; we will miss him."

Lifetime friend and colleague Khun Somsak Kiratipanich, Vice President of SI Thailand, said, "He worked hard for others for more than 40 years in Skal, he was so well respected around the world."

Andrew Wood, Past President Skal International Bangkok and former SI Thailand Councillor, said: "Khun Malai was responsible for bringing two Skal World congresses (1996 and 2006) and two Asian Area Congresses to Thailand; he was very often seen waving the Thailand flag alone at congresses around the world. Dedicating more than 40 years of his life to Skal there will never be another ‘Mr. Skal.’ His wisdom and knowledge were legendary during Skal committee meetings. RIP Khun Malai."