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Posts published in “Thailand”

Maurice Lacroix Unveils Stunning 2024 Watch Collection at SIAM PARAGON EXPO

From left: Mr. Ravis Haetanurak, Dr. Pramote Rienjaroensuk, Mr. Marcel Gut, Mr. Chin Chinawut, Mr. Arun Shukla, Ms. Araya Wathanyupharp, and Mr. Adjaranat Siphaya. Maurice Lacroix, the epitome of luxury Swiss watchmaking, dazzled watch aficionados on July 26, 2024, as they unveiled their stunning 2024 models. The grand reveal, featuring the new QUARTZ COLLECTION and the FIABA TRIO SPECIAL EDITION 2024 for women, took place at the Maurice Lacroix booth in the chic Fashion Hall during the prestigious SIAM PARAGON WATCH & JEWELRY EXPO 2024. Esteemed guests and media personalities gathered to witness this exquisite launch. The launch event was graced by the presence of Mr. Marcel Gut, Global Commercial Director of Maurice Lacroix, who jetted in from Switzerland to personally inaugurate the ceremony. With him was Mr. Ravis Haetanurak, Manager Area Sales Indochina, who enthusiastically shared the intricate details of the latest QUARTZ COLLECTION with the eager audience. Attendees…

Minister Varawut Silpa-archa Spearheads Vital Amendments to Thailand’s Anti-Domestic Violence Law

The Ministry of Social Development and Human Security is taking significant steps to revise the anti-domestic violence law, driven by the increasing fragility and susceptibility of Thai society to household abuse. Minister Varawut Silpa-archa revealed that a key topic at the ministry’s monthly meeting was the revision of the Victims of Domestic Violence Protection Act, BE 2550. Delving deeper, Minister Varawut explained that the proposed changes are grounded in insightful data from the Human Security Emergency Management Centre (HuSEC). HuSEC’s reports highlight financial struggles, family disputes, and domestic violence as the three most commonly reported issues each month. Minister Varawut acknowledged that economic difficulties, coupled with other stressors, have exacerbated the incidence of domestic violence, affecting individuals from the youngest children to the elderly. He emphasized that, in response to these challenges, the ministry is fast-tracking the amendment process to bolster domestic stability. The intention behind the amended law is…

Southern Land Bridge to Transform Thai Shipping Routes: OTP Reveals 2026 Construction Start

The ambitious Southern Land Bridge megaproject is all set to move forward as planned, fueled by the keen interest of multiple heavyweight companies from China, the United Arab Emirates, and the United States. This encouraging news was shared by the Office of Transport and Traffic Policy Planning (OTP) yesterday. Panya Chupanich, the OTP’s director-general, explained, “If everything proceeds smoothly, we aim to kick off construction in 2026 and wrap it up by 2030.” This transformative project will create a new maritime pathway enabling ships to travel seamlessly between the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea, thereby revolutionizing regional shipping routes. But that’s not all! The Land Bridge is poised to catapult the Southern Economic Corridor into a bustling hub of activity. As part of the grand plan, two state-of-the-art deep-sea ports will be constructed—one in Chumphon and another in Ranong—both interconnected via a cutting-edge motorway and railway network. Mr.…

Deputy Minister Manaporn Charoensri Pushes for Relocation and Revamp of Bangkok Port in Klong Toey

The buzz surrounding the potential relocation of Bangkok Port in Klong Toey district is growing, following the Transport Ministry’s directive for a feasibility study—a move sparked by overwhelmingly positive public feedback on the project. Deputy Minister Manaporn Charoensri, in her role as the chief supervisor of Port Authority of Thailand (PAT) operations, has called upon the PAT and relevant sectors to revisit this ambitious relocation plan. The goal? To meet public demand while enhancing the port area. Submitted to a cabinet meeting on April 2, this proposal aims to relocate the sprawling 2,353-rai port out of the bustling city center. The primary objectives are to significantly reduce pollution and alleviate the heavy traffic that often grinds the area’s pace to a frustrating halt. The decision is supported by data from a recent study conducted by North Bangkok University, which surveyed 2,500 respondents between July 22-31. The results are encouraging: a…

State Audit Office Reveals 30 Billion Baht Financial Loss Due to Mismanaged Construction Contracts

State Audit Office (SAO) spokesman Sutthipong Boonnithi revealed on Monday that financial losses due to the inefficient management of various construction contracts during the 2023 fiscal year exceeded a staggering 30 billion baht. The annual audit conducted by the SAO meticulously examined over 14,148 projects and contracts administered by 9,426 public agencies nationwide, uncovering noteworthy budgetary mismanagement in 1,795 of these agencies, amounting to 19.04%. The SAO identified at least 30.83 billion baht in irregular expenditures. Mr. Sutthipong articulated that the SAO had provided conditional recommendations for the enhancement of 629 out of 8,575 financial reports they audited for accuracy. Many of these reports were significant expenditures characterized by incomplete bookkeeping or erroneous records lacking sufficient clarifications, often involving cash, land, and real estate properties. Furthermore, the audit highlighted that 2,638 out of 5,318 contracts, which represents 49.61% of the total examined, failed to comply with legal or contractual obligations,…

Powerful Political Families Dominate PAO Elections in Ayutthaya, Chai Nat, and Phayao

Elections for provincial administration organization (PAO) chairs in Ayutthaya, Chai Nat, and Phayao saw triumphant victories for candidates from influential “Ban Yai” political families affiliated with major government parties, namely Bhumjaithai, the United Thai Nation Party, and the Pheu Thai Party. Sunday’s contests showcased the might of established political dynasties in Thailand. In Ayutthaya, the indomitable Somsong Phancharoenworakul, a seasoned veteran with five terms as chairwoman under her belt, overshadowed her rival, Watcharapong Radomsittipat. Ms. Somsong amassed a staggering 245,457 votes, leaving Mr. Watcharapong, who represented the Kao Mai Ayutthaya group and adopted the color orange synonymous with the Move Forward Party, far behind with 114,063 votes. No surprise here, given that Ms. Somsong is the mother of Bhumjaithai MP and Deputy Education Minister Surasak Phancharoenworakul and also boasts a niece, Pimprueda Tanjararak, who is an MP for the province. Over in Chai Nat, familial ties also proved decisive. Jitthana…

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin Unveils Ambitious 548 Billion Baht Water Management Plan in Roi Et

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin recently rolled up his sleeves and took a deep dive into the nation’s water management efforts at the Cheeklang Operation and Maintenance Project in tambon Phra That, nestled within the scenic backdrop of Chiang Khwan district in Roi Et province. The visit, which took place in March, underscored the government’s commitment to bolstering water security across Thailand. In a bid to fortify the nation’s H2O defenses, Srettha unveiled a sweeping three-year plan with an eye-watering half-trillion-baht price tag! At a crucial meeting convened at the Royal Irrigation Department (RID) on Monday, Prime Minister Srettha voiced his deep concern for the country’s water security. He fervently urged all pertinent agencies to mobilize and whip up an effective, ironclad water management strategy sooner rather than later. “A significant slice of the state’s annual budget is routinely funneled towards assisting and compensating flood victims,” Srettha noted. He also highlighted…

Bangkok Pride Wins Prix International Award for LGBTQ Advocacy from Paris Deputy Mayor

The Bangkok Pride team was seen beaming with joy as they received the Prix International award from Jean-Luc Romero-Michel, Deputy Mayor of Paris, who sported a casual ensemble of a white t-shirt and shorts. This heartwarming photograph is supplied to us to commemorate a milestone event. The Bangkok Pride association has earned the honor from France for its steadfast commitment to championing LGBTQ rights in Thailand. The city of Paris selected “Bangkok Pride,” known for orchestrating the annual Pride March in Thailand, to be the recipient of the International Prize of the City of Paris under the esteemed “Prix International” category. This accolade recognizes their unwavering advocacy and dedication to the cause. An award ceremony was held on Monday at the French embassy residence in Bangkok, marking a significant occasion for the association members. Jean-Luc Romero-Michel, the deputy mayor of Paris, graciously presented the prize to the leaders of the…

Thaksin Shinawatra’s Parole Controversy: Unraveling Confusion Over Key Dates Amid 75th Birthday Celebrations

Thaksin Shinawatra, the embattled former prime minister of Thailand, was all smiles as he spoke to reporters during the grand celebration of his 75th birthday at his residence in Bangkok on July 26. However, under the surface of the festivity ran an undercurrent of legal confusion that has set tongues wagging and brows furrowing across the political landscape. The Department of Corrections (DoC) found itself in the hot seat this Monday, vehemently denying any mishandling concerning the critical date marking Thaksin’s official completion of his parole. The correctional authorities dispatched a statement to address the burgeoning doubts raised by former Democrat Party MP, Thepthai Senpong, who had questioned the accuracy of the announced dates. According to Thepthai, there were conflicting dates provided by two prominent figures. Justice Permanent Secretary Pongsawat Neelayothin had initially said Thaksin’s parole sentence would culminate on August 22. Contrarily, DoC Director-General Sahakarn Phetnarin stated that the…

Senator Nantana Nantavaropas Warns Against Move Forward Party Dissolution Impact on Thai Democracy

In the bustling heart of Thailand’s political landscape, a firestorm brews over the potential dissolution of the main opposition, the Move Forward Party (MFP). Some say this act could signal a step backward for Thailand’s democracy. A leading voice in this discourse is Senator Nantana Nantavaropas, a prominent figure within the so-called New Breed group. Speaking on Monday, she highlighted widespread concern not only among Thai citizens but also echoed throughout the international community. Ms. Nantana argued passionately that a public agency wielding the power to disband a political party is a dangerous precedent, potentially reshaping the very foundation of Thailand’s political environment. Her conviction is clear: the upper chamber must vocalize its stance on the matter. Rallying her fellow senators, she called for signatures to support a statement that firmly opposes any public agency’s ability to dictate the nation’s politics or dissolve a party with substantial public backing. In…