In the vibrant world of digital finance, four stalwarts – Nares Laopannarai, head of Thai Digital Assets Association, Phromthep “Dave” Malhotra, Sold Outt CEO and co-founder, Sanjay Popli, Cryptomind Group’s CEO and co-founder, and Sarita Singh, Stripe’s regional head and MD for Southeast Asia – have asserted their opinions about the transformative role of digital wallets for Thailand. Amidst the heated debate revolving around the government’s proposal for a 10,000 baht digital wallet scheme, these proactive discussions reiterate their singular focus on the need of digital wallets in the context of the digital economy without any political or economic subtexts. Driving the economic growth of Thailand, digital wallets are no longer considered a mere luxury; instead, they are a strategic necessity shaping the country’s financial future. These wallets bring numerous benefits on the table – from fostering financial inclusion to enhancing cybersecurity. They simplify financial transactions, not just making them…
Posts published in “Thailand”
Marking the glorious milestone of 65 years of diplomatic ties, we’re bringing to you a vibrant cultural fiesta brimming with cultural anecdotes from both Korea and Thailand, oozing soft power exchange. Our ceremonial spectacle springs into action with an impressive K-pop cover dance curated by ‘The Stars,’ an inspiring team boldly breaking stereotypes associated with Down syndrome. This spirited commencement paves the way for ‘Gilnori’ and ‘Ginori,’ stunning displays of Korean traditional performances. We also have the Korean Percussion Group ‘In Phung-ryu’ breathing life into the celeberation with their music, intriguing instruments and flag displays, threading a traditional narrative into modern celebrations. To offcially set the ball rolling, our honorable Jeonghan Ham, the Chargé d’affaires of the Korean Embassy, will be delivering the opening remarks. Brace yourself for an array of captivating performances lined up, including a unique blend of Thai traditional dance and the martial art of Muay Thai,…
For the fiscal year 2024, the Interior Ministry has emerged the top dog, boasting the largest budget allocation of 353.1 billion Baht. This constitutes an appreciable surge of 27.8 billion or 8.57% from the previous fiscal year. The rising allocations towards this ministry testify to the government’s relentless commitment and determination to uplift the society’s infrastructural and developmental standing. Pulling in second place is the Education Ministry, bolstering the importance of knowledge and learning with an allocated budget of 328.3 billion Baht, a slight but significant lift of 1.01 billion from the preceding fiscal year, marking a 0.31% increase. It underscores the potent role of education as the primary catalyst in shaping Thailand’s future. The Finance Ministry, sitting in third place, registers an impressive 327.1 billion Baht in allocated funds, marking a formidable 42 billion Baht or 14.73% rise year on year. Indeed, controlling the fiscal health of the nation…
In the realm of consumer alert news, Panda Lab, a notable medical technology firm, has blown the whistle on a burgeoning travel con, reporting a figure of over 50 million baht swindled successful from unsuspecting travellers. These revelations, unveiled on Panda Lab’s Facebook page, target a high-profile tourism webpage belatedly finding fame not for its services, but for its alleged fraudulent practices. The Consumer Organisation Council has laid down multiple avenues for victims to voice out their concerns and complaints. As per the report uploaded by Panda Lab, several travellers, initially excited about their planned trips, suffered the disappointment of their tours being deferred. But the real nightmare began when they attempted to cancel their bookings. Not only were their requests for cancellations overlooked, more importantly, they were denied the accompanying reimbursement, culminating in a massive loss exceeding 50 million baht. The post, an ominous warning to potential travel enthusiasts,…
Imagine this – you’re at the ripe old age of 70, and you’re not kicking back and enjoying retirement, oh no. You’re applying for work at Charoen Thai Sukiyaki Soi 4, a renowned Sukiyaki restaurant nestled in the bustling heart of your city. Why, you might ask? Because you have an ageing mother to care for, and because life doesn’t always come gift-wrapped with a pension plan. This heartwarming narrative is the journey of one exceptional elderly gentleman who kept defying the status quo and outpaced life’s unending challenges. The iteration of this story began during the menacing waves of the Covid-19 pandemic. The elderly gentleman, with steadfast determination and resilience, approached the restaurant in search of work. Unfortunately, the plague had crippled businesses across the globe, and there were no positions open at the time. But, despite the odds, the old man left an imprint of hope. A flame…
Thailand, a country known for its tropical climate, is about to get a mellow tune-up in the weather symphony. An increase of 1 to 2 degrees Celsius is in the forecast across the country, signifying a retreat from the recent chilly spells, according to the Thai Meteorological Department (TMD). However, fear not; the essence of cool mornings still persists, particularly in the north and northeast region, complemented by occasional drizzles in some areas in the southern region. The TMD has projected this weather shift to propel over the coming 24 hours, pointing to the subtle weakening of the high-pressure system otherwise known as the cold air mass encasing the country. The northern terrains will sustain their tranquil cool with an impression of the morning fog, a sight to stir a sense of mystery. Some places might even see a denser fog veil. Overall, the temperatures are primed to ascend about…
Amid the relentless Israeli-Gaza war, a ray of hope seeped through the seemingly impenetrable clouds of conflict as Israel and Hamas struck an unanticipated agreement: a swap deal involving hostages and prisoners. An exchange of this magnitude signals a promising development for the Thai workers who tragically fell into the chains of hostage during the skirmish. Prime Minister of Thailand, Srettha Thavisin, reflected a glimmer of positivity, foreseeing the ceasefire arrangement between the two opponents indeed accelerating the Thai hostages’ release. The prime minister, 61 years of age, radiated confidence and declared, “We are confident there will be good news.” Thavisin revealed the Thai government’s ongoing discussions with Qatar to aid the Thais trapped in Israel’s evacuation. Nonetheless, he issued a warning to Thai workers still ensnared in the geographical confines of volatile Israel against returning to conflict-prone zones while the ceasefire existed in the fragile period of the battle.…
In a recent press conference, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin confirmed to the nation and broader global community that the visa exemption plan set in place for Chinese tourists is here to stay, undeterred by the multiple flight slot cancellations from several Chinese airlines. The surprising cancellations were fueled by a diminished demand in passenger flights to Thailand. It appeared that airlines anticipated a higher demand when they acquired slots for flights to Thailand and subsequently procured ground handling services for their aircraft. However, faced with less than satisfactory flight subscription rates, these airlines had to relinquish their rights to land and take-off. The unforeseen slump in demand is generally traced back to China’s less than perky economic bounce back post-pandemic and the Chinese government’s ongoing campaign to endorse local travel over international journeys. Prime Minister Srettha, 61, remains steadfast in his conviction, highlighting the importance of the visa exemption arrangement…
Thailand’s government is being implored to step up its game in human resources development, with a forward-looking vision towards Society 5.0. A quick insight into what comprises Society 5.0; think of this as an era where innovative technology and artificial intelligence (AI) will be the powerhouses galvanizing the global economy. This call for action was articulated by none other than Suphachai Chearavanont, the Chairman of Global Compact Network Thailand (GCNT). This statement was made at the GCNT Forum 2023, centered around “Partnership for Human Capital 5.0 towards Sustainable Intelligence (SI)-Based Society”. The chairman inferred that a primary ingredient for propelling Thailand into the orbit of the United Nations Framework for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) would be enhancing human resources. With AI and cutting-edge technology claiming the driver’s seat in the economic and social development, bolstered human resources will be paramount for steering Society 5.0 successfully. Drawing attention to the global…
In a monumental moment for Thailand’s Muslim population, Arun Boonchom, the incumbent president of the eminent Islamic Affairs Committee of Bangkok, has won an esteemed election, ascending to the distinguished title of the 19th Sheikhul Islam (Chularajmontri). He’s poised to spiritually guide the Muslim community of the region, succeeding the late Aziz Phitakkumpon. Commencing their journey at the prestigious National Administration Centre for Islamic Affairs in the Nong Chok district, Wednesday morning ushered in a new era. The event hall echoed with anticipation as Deputy Interior Minister Chada Thaiset took on the role of election chairman, ensuring the process remained smooth and fair. A highlight of this noteworthy event was the robust competition faced by Boonchom. The title of Sheikhul Islam, also known as Chularajmontri, isn’t one granted lightly. Two other esteemed individuals contested him for the extraordinary honor. Prasarn Sricharoen, deputy chairman of a panel of specialists at the…