Mass massage sets new Guinness record

People take part in an attempt to break the world record for mass-massaging in Muang Thong Thanni, Bangkok August 30, 2012. [Photo/Agencies]

BANGKOK - Guinness World Records on Thursday declared Thailand as the country with "the most people massaged at the same time".

A total of 641 Thai masseuses simultaneously massaged 641 people head-to-toe for 12 minutes, beating Australia's 2010 record of 263 mass massages for five minutes.

The show was the highlight of the opening ceremony of the three- day Thailand Medical Expo 2012, which showcases Thailand's readiness and ambition to be a leader of world class medical services.

An assessment of Thailand's medical service in 2012 found 2.5 million foreigners receiving medical treatment in Thailand, generating revenue up to 121 billion baht ($3.8 billion), with the highest number from Japan, followed by the US, Middle East countries and Australia.

The five-year target of medical service is expected to bring the revenue to Thailand up to 800 billion baht ($25.6 billion), according to the country's Ministry of Health.