In the bustling corridors of ASEAN diplomacy, Thailand’s Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra stands as a beacon of hope, championing the region’s economic integration like a seasoned maestro orchestrating a grand symphony of prosperity. At just 38, this dynamic leader is making waves, pushing the envelope to turn the Association of Southeast Asian Nations into a formidable force on the global economic stage. Her latest undertaking is emphasized in her earnest commitment to nurturing regional economic integration, a cause she passionately believes will pave the path to global economic success. In an engaging chat, where the air buzzed with visions of a prosperous future, Prime Minister Paetongtarn emphasized the immense potential that lies within ASEAN, particularly under Malaysia’s capable chairmanship. She believes that by fast-tracking the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), ASEAN could be on the fast track to revitalized regional growth. With Malaysia at the helm, she vows to collaborate…
Posts published in “Thailand”
In a thrilling event that merges the worlds of football and golf, two of soccer’s most renowned goalkeepers are swapping their goalkeeping gloves for golf clubs. Joe Hart, the former England and Manchester City goalkeeper, is eagerly anticipating the Reignwood Icons of Football tournament in Bangkok. This unique event offers him the opportunity to face off against Peter Schmeichel, the legendary Denmark and Manchester United goalkeeper. The competition kicks off next month at Bangkok’s sophisticated Robinswood Golf Course, where Team England will be going head-to-head with Team World. For Hart, the tournament offers a chance to compete against one of his childhood idols. Reflecting on growing up watching Manchester United, he admits, “I didn’t have many icons growing up, but one person I always looked up to is actually on the opposition team, Peter Schmeichel. I can’t wait to battle with him. Watching him on TV as a kid, making…
When the rain-soaked evening unfolded in Trat province last Sunday, no one could have predicted the unintended spectacle that was about to unravel on the Sukhumvit Highway. As the clock ticked past 6:30 pm, the tranquil murmur of the downpour was shattered by the screech of tires and the ominous crash of metal against a lamppost. There, in the heart of Muang district’s tambon Laem Klat, a peculiar accident drew unexpected attention. The incident spotlighted a battered police pickup truck, distinctly marked with the unmistakable emblems of Provincial Police Region 2. The driver, Pol Sgt Maj Ekapote Niyom, emerged from the crash not only with a slew of painful grazes but with back and chest aches that merited a quick trip to Trat Hospital. Yet, amidst the concern over his injuries, it was the illicit cargo thrown open to the elements that truly stole the show. Lodged on the rear…
As dawn breaks over the vibrant land of Thailand, the government is setting its sights on an ambitious undertaking. The year 2025 has been declared as the extraordinary “Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism & Sports” year, a grand initiative aimed at luring 40 million international tourists to the enchanting kingdom and raking in a staggering 3 trillion baht in revenue. Quite a proposition, wouldn’t you say? As Thailand stands on the cusp of this tourism revelry, a scholarly voice from Thammasat University beckons for a slight shift in focus. Enter Assoc Prof Saifon Suindramedhi, the articulate and astute dean of Thammasat University’s College of Interdisciplinary Studies. Her proposition? A nuanced approach to the tourism strategy—one that unfurls a red carpet for older tourists. Why, you ask? Imagine a cohort of travelers who are not only eager to linger longer amidst Thailand’s splendors but also possess the financial muscle to spend lavishly.…
Imagine a world where navigating Bangkok’s bustling cityscape becomes not just a necessity but a seamless experience. The Common Ticketing System Management Bill is shaping up to be the innovation to bring that vision to life. During an engaging public hearing organized by the Thailand Consumers Council, attendees delved deep into this forward-thinking proposal. The goal? To revamp the way we experience public transportation in the vibrant metropolis of Bangkok, not only making it convenient but also affordable. Guiding the discussion was Jiraroth Sukolrat, the insightful deputy director-general of the Office of Transport and Traffic Policy and Planning. With enthusiasm, he explained the primary goals of the bill—streamlining operations by reducing the redundant efforts of various agencies, enhancing not just convenience but also safety, and most crucially, ensuring that pricing remains fair for every commuter. Opposing views also made their mark on the forum. The dynamic People’s Party (PP), represented…
In a rather intriguing development from Kanchanaburi, a bold political move is shaking up the tranquil landscape in Thailand’s westernmost province. Enter Akaranun Khankittinan, a daring MP from the Pheu Thai party, who is grabbing headlines by challenging a long-standing decree that has kept certain lands out of locals’ reach for generations. Last month, Mr. Akaranun did the unthinkable: he fired off a petition to the House, calling for an in-depth study into the ramifications of a decree that affects the districts of Muang, Wang Khanai, Baan Tuan, and Wang Ka like a stubborn phantom from the past. This decree, mind you, is no spring chicken. Dating back to 1938, it marked 3.5 million rai of land—approximately 3 million in Kanchanaburi and 500,000 in the adjacent Ratchaburi province—strictly for military purposes. The grand plan? To preserve and protect a certain species of bamboo intended for a local paper manufacturing venture…
Have you ever found yourself whisked away into the whirlwind hustle and bustle of Bangkok’s vibrant streets? It’s a place where the sounds of revving engines, honking horns, and animated chatter blend into a unique urban symphony. Stepping onto the pavement, you’re likely to notice those black and white zebra stripes – not just an artwork on the road, but the last stronghold of pedestrian safety. Unfortunately, in the Land of Smiles, some of these seemingly serene stripes have turned into spots of danger. Recent findings have highlighted a daunting reality – pedestrian crossings, especially those flanking schools and hospitals, are becoming hotbeds for accidents. Picture this: a kind-hearted South Korean tourist, a sprightly 68-year-old, takes a step onto the crossing outside the Kidney Institute Hospital, only to have a day shadowed by an unfathomable encounter with a motorbike. Disturbingly, this echoes a tragic incident two years prior when an…
In today’s whirlwind of urban sprawl and city life, real estate development often comes across as a relentless sprint toward maximizing profits and efficiency. Towering, identical condominiums line the skylines, while generic shopping complexes paint a picture of conformity—functional, maybe, but lacking a soul and essence that truly captivates. When everything seems to look and feel the same, a new name, Zipcode, thrusts itself onto the scene, defiantly challenging the status quo. This pioneering force in real estate is determined to rekindle the spark of community life through its innovative and people-centered designs. Zipcode isn’t just playing the game—they’re rewriting the rulebook with a mission that goes beyond the simple act of stacking bricks upon bricks. They yearn to create environments resonating with warmth, encouraging connections, uplifting quality of life, and sparking those intimate interactions that remind us of our shared humanity. Their rallying cry? “Community Comes Alive,” a testament…
In a recent turn of events, a notable wave of support has been recorded in Thailand for the government’s audacious decision to sever utility connections with Myanmar in an effort to clamp down on notorious call-centre gangs. Stirring a cauldron of opinions, this controversial move has sparked a heated debate across the nation. A survey conducted by the National Institute of Development Administration (Nida) on February 10-11, 2025, revealed a fascinating cross-section of public opinion on this pressing issue. The poll involved 1,310 respondents, all over the age of 18, spanning various educational backgrounds and professional fields. When queried about their stance on the government’s aggressive approach towards dismantling scam operations, a significant 70.54% of respondents expressed wholehearted support. These respondents cheered the decision, convinced that cutting off utilities would strike at the very heart of the scam networks in Myanmar. Additionally, 21.07% sided with the initiative to some extent,…
In a remarkable celebration of exemplary business leadership and substantial contributions to national development, Ramkhamhaeng University conferred an Honorary Doctorate in Business Administration for the academic year 2022–2023 to the illustrious Mr. Chaiwat Kovavisarach, Group Chief Executive Officer and President of Bangchak Corporation Public Company Limited. This distinguished event took place on the 12th of February, 2025. The esteemed degree was presented to Mr. Chaiwat by Mr. Palakorn Suwannarat, Privy Councillor, gracing the function as the royal emissary of His Majesty the King. The proceedings unfolded amidst an air of grandeur at the King Ramkhamhaeng the Great Auditorium, situated within the verdant expanses of the Hua Mak Campus at Ramkhamhaeng University in Bangkok. This singular honor shines a spotlight on Mr. Chaiwat’s profound expertise and exceptional stewardship in piloting the growth trajectory of the Bangchak Group, all while championing principles of sustainable business practices. Mr. Chaiwat’s influence extends far beyond…