Located within the bustling expanse of Bangkok lies a church, offering a sanctuary to a multitude of Vietnamese refugees. Fleeing from turbulent homelands, these asylum seekers indulge in moments of tranquility during the euphoria of their worship services, seeking a temporary escape from a reality marred by the incessant specter of arrest or deportation. Though Thailand, a non-signatory to the UN Refugee Convention, fails to distinguish between refugees and general migrants, these displaced souls seek refuge under its expansive umbrella. In the face of changing times, a novel system is slated for implementation later this month. Tailored with the promise of a distinction mechanism between those for whom return spells out danger and illegal immigrants, the system braces for its debut. However, this proposal has met with its share of skepticism. Refugees and human rights advocates have voiced concern, fearing the misuse of the system as an unnerving gateway to…
Posts published by “Editorial Team”
Representing the united voices of Thailand’s taxi drivers, the Thai Public Taxi Association is seeking the attention of Suriya Jungrungreangkit, the nation’s Transport Minister, for an economic aid package designed to facilitate their transition to Electric Vehicles (EVs). The association’s dynamics, steered by Chairman Sadit Jaitiang, mark their calendars for a crucial tête-à-tête with the Transport Minister, scheduled for next Friday. This high-importance meeting is aimed to encompass an array of concerns affecting the livelihood of taxi drivers across the country. One crucial discussion point will be the profound environmental impact achievable via the adoption of EVs by the taxi industry – a change capable of substantially curtailing carbon emissions and particulate pollution, especially in the bustling heart of Thailand’s capital city, Bangkok, argues Sadit. However, to set the wheels of this vital transition in motion, the association, with resolute conviction, is seeking formal endorsements in the shape of tax…
The Israeli Embassy recently unveiled a remarkable spectacle of innovation within the food industry during their food technology extravaganza, “Savour the Future of Food”, held at the esteemed Grand Hyatt Erawan Bangkok. The event showcased the evolution of food technology with a focus on alternative food production, drawing in numerous enthusiasts from diverse sectors of the market, including high-profile governmental representatives, industry stakeholders, and esteemed private sector professionals who contribute to the booming fields of cultivated meat, plant-based product development, revolutionary fermentation technologies, and sugar reduction strategies. Among the distinguished attendees, Thailand’s celebrated culinary expert, ML Sirichalerm Svasti (famed as Chef McDang) was also in presence. A significant highlight of the occasion was the introduction of 14 pioneering Israeli start-ups, marking the grandest display of Israeli food technology ever witnessed outside of Israel’s borders. The event spotlighted conversation-starting attractions including exhibits and interactive displays of futuristic food innovations such as…
The brouhaha at the parliamentary canteen of Thailand has stirred a lot of conversation lately—exposing an alarming rate of food wastage and kick-starting a new discourse on the efficient use of public funds. It all began with a social media debacle where an MP was seen carrying away leftovers, opening up the Pandora’s box on lavish meals and beverages that are offered to parliamentary members. The incident revolved around Move Forward MP Sirilapas Kongtrakarn, better known as Mew. Albeit an innocent act to prevent waste and enjoy a late-night meal after a long day, a photograph of hers, when posted on Instagram with a critical caption, sparked off debates on food waste. Undeterred, she reposted the picture on Twitter, solemnly reminding over 20,000 followers that the food she was taking home would’ve been thrown away instead. Public outburst on the matter necessitated into a pressing need for improved management to…
Stomping grounds for the recent campaign events included the bustling markets of Khao Din, Prasae, and Sam Yan, located in the heart of the Muang district. Jurin Laksanavisit, leader of the Democrat Party, spearheaded the campaign, bolstered by the presence of the party’s chief of innovation in politics – Watanya “Madam Dear” Bunnag – and a fine assembly of esteemed Members of Parliament hailing from various provinces. Together, they championed the candidacy of Dr. Banyat Jetanachan for Rayong’s Constituency 3. Watanya Bunnag, the female powerhouse behind these political endeavours, also happens to be the wife of Shine Bunnag, the CEO of Nation Group. According to Jurin, the highlight of Dr. Banyat’s credentials is his local origin. Born and bred in Rayong, he embodies a spirit of service, commitment, and familiarity with the unique nuances of his hometown. Having represented Rayong as an MP thrice, he possesses submerged depths of political…
With its vibrant culture and welcoming ambiance, Bangkok opens its doors to all manner of individuals, including Vietnamese refugees seeking temporary sanctuary. However, the journey these refugees face in this place, far removed from their homeland, is filled with uncertainty and fears of arrest or deportation. This grim situation arises from the fact that Thailand has refrained from becoming a signatory of the UN Refugee Convention, resulting in a diplomatic blind spot that fails to discern a meaningful distinction between refugees and other migrants. Consequently, many unfortunate souls face a daily struggle for survival, ever fearful of detection. In an attempt to rectify this situation, a revamped and sophisticated process has been created and is expected to be rolled out soon. The primary mission of this system aims to differentiate between those who face genuine danger should they return to their native land and individuals who have entered Thailand illegally.…
The gathering held at 9am on that sunny Saturday morning was a joint effort organized by PhD candidates who had honed their skills in social, business, and political leadership within the University’s College of Social Innovation. Their contributions, knowledge and commitment played a critical role in shaping this event. Greeting Sutin at this noteworthy event were the voices and minds behind the university’s leadership – Asst Prof Attawit Ourairat, the esteemed President, and head of the College of Social Innovation, Assoc Prof Suriya Isarakat. They presented a unified front while listening to the comprehensive research presentations shared by dynamic and inquisitive doctoral students. The research had a distinct agenda, focusing primarily on the interplay between intricate dynamics of global geopolitics and the direct implications on Thailand in its three central provinces, these being Mukdahan, Phuket, and Chiang Rai. The presentations were filled with insight, making the event a source of…
In the wake of increased adoption of electric vehicles (EVs), a significant surge in electricity consumption, particularly during peak hours, is expected. To combat this imminent challenge, the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) is expediting the evolution of a developmental plan for power generation. This plan, currently under consideration for implementation by the Ministry of Energy, will enhance the ability to cater to the peak electrical demands during nighttime hours. The Director General of the Energy Policy and Planning Office, Wattanapong Kurovat, painted an optimistic economic picture for the year 2023 according to the NESDC’s forecast. He projected the economy to expand within the bracket of 2.5% to 3%. A potpourri of contributing factors like resurgent tourism, substantial private consumption, and continuous public and private sector investments manifest into this positive economic upturn. The forecast reveals an expected upturn in the electricity demand by approximately 2.4% in 2023.…
Delighting travelers with its commitment to excellent service, THAI (Thai Airways International) is preparing to expand its wings throughout Thailand. From Suvarnabhumi International Airport in bustling Bangkok, THAI promises to connect passengers to a multitude of picturesque destinations. They include the emerald beaches of Krabi, the vibrant city of Khon Kaen, the idyllic beaches of Phuket, the southern gem of Narathiwat, the mountainous splendor of Chiang Rai, the cultural heartland of Chiang Mai, the urban buzz of Udon Thani, the exotic allure of Hat Yai, and the spiritual hub of Ubon Ratchathani. With these exciting changes set to take place during the winter flight schedule from October 2023 until March 2024, travelers can expect a seamless exploration of Thailand. A reliable source within THAI unveiled this master plan, framing new routes and flight schedules to accommodate customer demands efficiently. Devotees of sandy shores would be thrilled to know that starting…
Driving rains and forceful thunderstorms are set to be ushered in by the monsoon trough holding tight over the upper regions of the North and Northeast. This weather condition is further fueled by a low-pressure belt nestled over the Gulf of Tonkin. With the potent southwest monsoon stretching across the scenic Andaman Sea, down through the Gulf of Thailand, and enveloping the Central, Eastern, and Southern regions, the land expects to be kissed by isolated showers. The Meteorological Department’s forecast unveils a turbulent side of Mother Nature, promising a captivating symphony of thunderstorms. Residents dwelling in the vicinity of hills or mountains are suggested to stay vigil as flash floods could make an unwelcome appearance. Further, inhabitants residing near low-lying areas should brace themselves for a deluge, an inadvertent consequence of waterways overflowing their banks. Road users are nudged to exercise extreme caution during thunderstorms. Weather whims can turn the…