I ran this draft through a China-based AI for a spell-check and some sub-headings, and it told me it could not proceed. 🤔

At the 12th anniversary gala of Elite+ magazine in Bangkok, Hong Kong author Lau Yee-Wa was awarded the first Chommanard International Literary Award for her debut novel, Tongueless.

The prize, expanded in 2026 from its Thai origins, now celebrates outstanding female writers across ASEAN and East Asia, including China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan. This year’s competition drew nearly 70 submissions from 13 countries, reflecting the region’s vibrant but often underrepresented literary scene.

From Local to Global: The Award’s Evolution

Originally established 15 years ago by Praphansarn Publishing and Bangkok Bank, the Chommanard Book Prize recognised Thai women writers with a 100,000 baht award and English translation.

The 2026 expansion marks a strategic shift: “Asian female writers don’t get the recognition they deserve,” noted Arthorn Techatada, Award Program Director. The new international prize, with a 500,000 baht grand award, aims to amplify diverse voices and foster cross-cultural dialogue.

A Diverse Shortlist and Cultural Exchange

The 2026 shortlist showcased eight finalists from Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia, Taiwan, and Hong Kong, each exploring themes of identity, memory, and social change.

Finalists participated in a week of cultural programmes in Thailand, including visits to the Bangkok International Book Fair and media tours, deepening engagement with the region’s literary ecosystem.

.Tongueless: A Novel of Language and Resistance

Lau’s Tongueless – a darkly humorous, politically charged thriller – examines the weaponisation of language in Hong Kong’s shifting socio-political landscape.

Set against the backdrop of Mandarin’s rise over Cantonese, the novel follows two teachers navigating systemic oppression and personal rebellion. Critics praise its raw, unflinching prose and relevance to global debates on cultural erasure and freedom of expression.

A Call for Greater Recognition

In her acceptance speech, Lau highlighted the award’s role in challenging global literary inequities: “I was documenting a quiet, invisible violence – de-schooling society, as Ivan Illich warned.” Her win highlights the growing influence of ASEAN and East Asian women writers in reshaping contemporary literature.

The View From the Beach

Spotlight on Underrepresented Voices: The award’s expansion offers new opportunities for ASEAN and East Asian women writers in global markets.

Cultural and Commercial Potential: Tongueless’s success signals demand for translated, politically engaged fiction – a niche ripe for exploration.

Industry Collaboration: The prize’s partnership with Bangkok Bank and PUBAT sets a model for public-private support of regional literature.

Let me end this piece by saying I ran this draft through a China-based AI for a spell-check and some sub-headings, and it told me it could not proceed. 🤔

This post first appeared in the TNPS LinkedIn newsfeed.