Each year, the Thai government's Bureau of Employment for Persons with Disabilities recognizes individuals, government agencies and companies that have made an outstanding effort to employ and train handicapped workers. This year Mother of Pearl Industry Co. Ltd. ("MOPI") located in Hang Dong was one of five recipients of the prestigious Best Factory for Disabled Persons 2004, national award.

Based on their high ratio of handicapped workers and the fact that these workers receive the same salaries, job training and opportunities for advancement, MOPI won over much larger companies. Other criteria included assessment of working conditions, safety procedures, and training programs.

Mr. Tephsing Ruangyuttikarn, production manager and shareholder in MOPI traveled to Bangkok to receive this award. Khun Tephsing told us that MOPI's handicapped employees are dedicated and produce excellent results for the company. "This is a two way street," Tephsing told us. "Our handicapped employees' attitude and performance do a great deal to help us in terms of our quality and production. MOPI benefits from hiring and training its handicapped workers and I would encourage any company to consider this option."

Thailand has an estimated six million handicapped people of which five million are unemployed. The message that the Thai government and companies such as MOPI want to emphasize is "please take advantage of this available resource." Hats off to MOPI. Congratulations for a job well done. Inquiries regarding hiring handicapped individuals may be made to (053) 357-088.