Picture this: a place where the world comes together, where diversity isn’t just a buzzword but a core principle, shaping and enriching the experiences of every student who steps foot on campus. Welcome to Mahidol University International College (MUIC), a haven for those eager to dive into the global arena with an education that’s as dynamic as it is impactful. Established in 1986, MUIC has cemented its reputation as a trailblazer in international education in the heart of Thailand, nurturing over 11,000 graduates who have become trailblazers in their own right in fields as varied as business, science, the arts, government, and non-profit sectors. Whether their journey leads them into esteemed graduate programs in Thailand or to international shores, MUIC alumni carry with them the spirit of global citizenship. But what truly sets MUIC apart? It’s the vibrant tapestry of cultures woven into the very fabric of campus life. With…
Posts published in “Thailand”
Few settings blend the natural world with public administration as colorfully as Thailand, a land where nature is both revered and contested. On the 22nd anniversary of the founding of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP), a festive occasion marked by speeches and aspirations, the Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, Chalermchai Sri-on, stood at the helm. His mission? To bring harmony between the poles of nature conservation and human ambition, within the tangled green of Thailand’s forest territories. Embarking on this lofty mission, Chalermchai took the opportunity to address a thorny issue: the ongoing disputes surrounding 75,000 square meters of forest boundaries. By 2026, he vowed, these conflicts between the government, residents, and legal definitions would see resolution. His speech was less diplomatic rhetoric and more a call to arms, envisioning a path where rigid adherence to laws does not forsake the spirit of fairness…
The bustling chambers of the House witnessed an animated session yesterday as a rather controversial bill introduced by the opposition People’s Party was met with rejection. In a political dance that unfolded like an intense chess match, the proposal aimed at shaking up the liquor industry was shot down by a decisive 237 votes to 137. An intrepid venture led by People’s Party MP, Taopiphop Limjittrakorn, the bill sought to open the doors for individuals to distill their own alcohol without the tight grip of government permission strapping them down. Before the vote, the atmosphere was charged with anticipation as government chief whip Wisut Chainarun, representing the coalition-core Pheu Thai Party, took to the metaphorical podium, voicing concerns over the potential chaos that might ensue. “This is a big issue,” he declared emphatically. “If every household is allowed to make liquor without legal controls and that leads to death, the…
TOAVH has unfurled an ambitious blueprint to rake in a staggering 11 billion baht in revenue, forecasting a robust 5% growth trajectory. With a keen eye on reinventing itself as Thailand’s premier powder paint titan, the company is pouring a whopping 650 million baht to branch into verdant business sectors this year. They’re not just stopping there though, TOAVH is intent on revamping its car dealership enterprise while plunging headlong into the burgeoning electric vehicle (EV) market. They’ve struck deals with five influential Chinese brands to forge a sustainable, eco-conscious business footprint. Leading the charge, Mr. Nattavuth Tangkaravakoon, the illustrious President of TOA Venture Holding Co., Ltd., outlined that 2024 is geared towards robust and sustainable business flourishing through the compelling ethos of “Healthy and Environmentally Friendly.” The company’s compass is fixed on churning out trailblazing innovations in production, cherry-picking products and services that prioritize consumer health and eco-responsibility, all…
In an audacious bid to bring harmony to the picturesque landscapes of Thailand, the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, affectionately known as the DNP, is on a mission to settle the age-old land disputes with residents over a hefty 75,000 square meters of precious forest land by the year 2026. Fueled by a passion for nurturing nature, the Natural Resources and Environment Minister, the ever-dedicated Chalermchai Sri-on, recently took center stage at the festivity marking the DNP’s 22nd birthday. Amidst the glitz and camaraderie, Minister Chalermchai eloquently illustrated the high-stakes tug-of-war between the luscious realms of forest conservation and the bustling needs of the local communities. Speaking with an air of determination and sincerity, he acknowledged the complexity of this balancing act but emphasized the essential need to orchestrate a symphony of compromise, all the while keeping a sharp eye on the sanctified corridors of legal protocols.…
In a world where the health of our planet is intimately connected to the health of its inhabitants, adopting a comprehensive approach is crucial for sustainable well-being. Dr. Soawapak Hinjoy, a leading figure in the field of public health, urges professionals in the environmental and health promotion sectors to synchronize their efforts under the One Health approach. This innovative strategy promises to yield healthier outcomes for the people of Thailand. These remarks were made during the dynamic “Climate and Health Regional Dialogue” forum, an event co-hosted by the Faculty of Tropical Medicine at Mahidol University and the French embassy. The story of Thailand’s journey with the One Health approach dates back to around 2007, a year marked by a rabies epidemic that brought attention to the interconnectedness of health issues. Dr. Soawapak reminisces about how the Disease Control Department partnered with various agencies, adopting an integrated method to tackle and…
In a display of political maneuvering, the House delivered a decisive blow to the bold ambitions of the opposition People’s Party yesterday. The focal point of contention? A controversial bill set forth by People’s Party representative, Taopiphop Limjittrakorn, which aimed to shake up the longstanding norms of the liquor industry. With a final tally that left no room for ambiguity, the bill was quashed with 237 votes opposed and a mere 137 in favor. The proposed legislation promised to usher in a new era for the independent spirit enthusiast, figuratively speaking, by allowing individuals the freedom to possess alcohol distillation equipment for personal use—sans the looming gaze of government bureaucracy. Yet, despite its seemingly enticing promise of entrepreneurial empowerment, it prompted a sobering response from government heavyweights. Stepping up to the podium, government chief whip and voice of prudence, Wisut Chainarun of the coalition-dominant Pheu Thai Party, did not mince…
The air was thick with anticipation as Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra scanned the room, absorbing the technical details fed to her about the intricate water management mechanisms meant to tame the annual wrath of the northern and central plains. Like an orchestrated ballet of water engineers and hydrologists, the experts buzzed around the table in Government House, dissecting the possible flood scenarios with the precision of a seasoned conductor leading a symphony. It was a midweek rendezvous at the Royal Irrigation Department in Pak Kret, Nonthaburi, where Ms. Paetongtarn was briefed comprehensively on the fluid dynamics of the region’s rivers, particularly the formidable Chao Phraya. Like a seasoned captain navigating a storm, she assured the nation that Mother Nature had scaled back her drama for the year. With rains softer than a sad ballad, Bangkok’s citizens could breathe a collective sigh of relief—there would be no rerun of the 2011…
In the heart of Pathum Thani, where the bustling life on Phahon Yothin Road pauses for a silent moment, lies a scene filled with solemnity and unreleased tears. The tragic bus fire, which sent shockwaves through the land, has left milk cartons—a poignant symbol of innocence and youth—crumbled near the scene. In the wake of such devastation, Their Majesties the King and Queen have graciously offered a royally sponsored funeral for the 23 cherished souls—including 20 students and three dedicated teachers—who tragically lost their lives in this harrowing incident. With love and respect, the families decided that Wat Khao Praya Sangkharam School in Uthai Thani’s Lan Sak district would be the resting venue for the rites, returning the victims to where their minds once soared with dreams and knowledge. The Deputy Interior Minister, Sabeeda Thaised, along with Uthai Thani governor, Teerapat Kutchamath, surveyed the multifaceted school hall, a place echoing…
The Comptroller General’s Department (CGD) has made revelations regarding the previous fiscal year’s budget underspending, attributing it to the prolonged delay in budget approval. According to CGD director-general Patricia Mongkhonvanit, the late passing of the state budget created quite a ripple effect. The fiscal year 2024, which concluded on September 30, saw significant usage of the fixed fund, totaling 2.8 trillion baht, primarily designated for crucial expenses such as civil service salaries. Remarkably, this segment was over-disbursed by 101%, exceeding expectations. On the other hand, the investment portion of the budget painted a different picture. The government managed to disburse only 440 billion baht, which accounts for just 65.1% of the available funds. This figure lagged 10 percentage points behind the 75% target, revealing a clear underperformance. The unallocated portion of the investment fund hasn’t gone to waste, though. Ms. Patricia noted that the leftover funds have been redirected to…