Siripoka Electronics - สิริโภคา นะมายะโส

Endless amounts of electronic equipment are stacked in the narrow streets. Karaoke microphones, colorful cables, and a large number of roadside tables with DIY engineers in various fields are all ready to fix your broken gear. Ban Mo was initially started by Vietnamese settlers who primarily sold ceramic work. That is why the market was named Ban Mo, meaning "pottery market." It later transformed into a gold and gemstone market before becoming an electronics bazaar around 70 years ago.

Mr. Sirirote learned everything on his own while previously working as a salesperson in an electronics shop in the suburbs of Bangkok. However, he always dreamt of having his own place and expanding his knowledge in the brave new world of technology. Therefore, he took the leap with his wife and opened his shop during Ban Mo's peak around 35 years ago. It was back then the absolute epicenter of electronics in Thailand. However, dark clouds are now gathering over the market as most of the shopping has moved online, resulting in nearly 80% of the customers disappearing. 

To stand out from the crowd, Mr. Sirirote started building various models and robots for educational purposes. The rumors quickly spread, and students from neighboring schools started gathering at the shop to experience the small miracle machines and seek help with their own projects. Homemade wind turbines, airplanes, and the one and only R2D2 from Star Wars are among his creations. Mr. Sirirote sees himself as an artist, driven by curiosity, passion, and a desire to challenge himself. He has formed a deep connection with all of his creations, and his biggest wish now is to organize an exhibition showcasing his work from the last four decades.