Bangkok--6 Sep--SET The Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET), together with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and Thai Listed Companies Association (TCLA), is preparing company secretaries for the revised Securities and Exchange Act by organizing a seminar and publishing a book. At the seminar, 108 Tasks for Company Secretaries, the publication, Roles and Responsibilities of Company Secretaries, was distributed to the 400 company secretaries attending. The company secretary now plays a key role in assisting a firm and its board of directors comply with relevant laws and regulations, and this will become even more important after the new Securities and Exchange Act has been passed. The amended Act requires a board of directors to appoint a company secretary, and clearly elaborate the position’s responsibilities and potential sanctions. The seminar, on September 4th, at the SET building, was staged to clarify the role of company secretary, SET Executive Vice President Mr. Suthichai Chitvanich said. “The seminar highlighted the importance of company secretaries to listed companies and their managements and explained their legal obligations and responsibilities under the amendment. SET will continue to emphasize their significance,” Mr. Suthichai added. “The draft amendment is about to be considered by the Cabinet before submission to the National Legislative Assembly. The law has provided for a transitory period to allow for any adjustments. Now is an opportune time for firms and company secretaries to become familiar with the new regulations, and the SEC is available to answer any questions,” SEC Senior Assistant Secretary-General Mr. Chalee Chantanayingyong stated. A company secretary is appointed by a board of directors to oversee all activities performed by the board and to help it and the firm comply with all laws and regulations. Qualifications for the position include a thorough understanding of the nature of the firm’s business and a comprehensive knowledge of the applicable laws and regulations. The position also entails a number of coordination and liaison responsibilities. At the seminar, several guest speakers shared their experience and insights about company secretaries. These included Ms. Nuttaya Niyommanusorn, SEC Corporate Governance Dept. Director; Mr. Attapol Rerkphiboon, Vice President of the Office of the President, PTT PCL; Mrs. Patraporn Milindasuta, Managing Director and Chief Administrative Officer, Phatra Securities PCL; Mrs. Kobboon Srichai, Executive Vice President, Charoen Pokphand Foods PCL; and Mr. Sakkarin Ruamrangsri, SET Senior Vice President. For more information, please contact the Corporate Communications Dept.: Ladawan Kantawong Tel: 0-2229-2036 / Sarinluck Jitkawong Tel: 0-2229-2037 / Nattaporn Boonprapa Tel: 0-2229-2049 / Watsamon Saowakhonsathien Tel: 0-2229-2797