Ever wondered what happens when the precision and elegance of Japanese watchmaking meet the vibrant creativity of Thai craftsmanship? The result is nothing short of spectacular! Recently, Orient marked the extraordinary milestone of its acclaimed “Made in Thailand” initiative with an event as dazzling as their timepieces, held at the EPSON Thailand (EPTH) factory in picturesque Chachoengsao province. It was November 28, 2024, a day that welcomed key figures, media luminaries, and esteemed partners to celebrate Thailand’s invaluable contribution to the global triumph of Orient and Orient Star watches. The EPTH factory, a cornerstone of Orient’s ambitious project, represents a pioneering venture that began watch production in 2019. Spanning a considerable 48,804 square meters, this facility upholds the meticulous standards synonymous with its Japanese origins. Establishing a production line in Thailand was a confident and strategic move by EPSON, drawn to the country’s robust logistics, rich resources, and adept workforce.…
Posts published in “Thailand”
In an unfortunate incident that unfolded on a somber Monday evening, a team of dedicated rescuers reached a fish fermentation facility in the serene district of Lom Sak, nestled within Thailand’s stunning Phetchabun province. Their mission, however, was far from triumphant, as they discovered the tragic loss of five lives within the tank’s confines. This harrowing event left not just a community, but an entire region mourning in the wake of such an unexpected disaster. (Photo: Soonthorn Kongwarakom) Forensic investigations spearheaded by diligent members of local law enforcement suggest that treacherous toxic gas had accumulated within this very fish fermentation tank, which proved lethal for the five men. These hardworking individuals were entrusted with the task of cleaning the tank at a pla-ra production plant, an enterprise ingrained in the heart of this northern province. Authorities, specifically the provincial disaster prevention and mitigation office, meticulously pieced together the events. Following…
In an exciting development for Thailand’s industrial sector, GC Estate Co., Ltd. (GC Estate), a pivotal arm of the GC Group specializing in utilities, land leasing, and sales, has inked a noteworthy land lease agreement with VASMO Co., Ltd. (VASMO). The agreement sees the lease of a substantial 60-rai plot within the Asia Industrial Estate, located in the vibrant Rayong province. This prime piece of real estate is set to play host to Thailand’s pioneering chemical metal compound and alloy manufacturing plant, ingeniously utilizing decommissioned catalysts from the oil refining and petrochemical industries. The ceremonial signing of this landmark agreement was graced by key industry figure, Mr. Pornsak Mongkoltrirat, Chief Operating Officer at PTT Global Chemical Public Company Limited’s Center of Excellence, who extended his hearty congratulations. The deal itself was formalized by two industry stalwarts, Mrs. Sunutta Sukthai, Managing Director at GC Estate Co., Ltd., and Mr. Sittichai Talapnak,…
In the vibrant month of September 2023, the dazzling streets of Thailand were graced by a striking parade. With the vibrant flutter of banners and passionate cries, the members of the Thai Chamber of Commerce and the Board of Trade of Thailand made a bold statement against corruption. Captured perfectly in a photograph by Varuth Hirunyatheb, the scene set the stage for a monumental vow—a vow for change. The air was charged with anticipation as the government stepped up with a resolute promise to tackle corruption head-on. Aiming to elevate Thailand’s Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) score from a middling 35 to a much more commendable 50 out of 100, the initiative was nothing short of ambitious. The pledge was made with solemnity at the auspicious ceremony commemorating International Anti-Corruption Day. Presiding over the momentous event, Prime Minister’s Office Minister Chousak Sirinil imbued the gathering with a sense of purpose. This…
Amidst the bustling and vibrant city of Bangkok, an urgent message resonated through the halls of the International Soil and Water Forum. The newly minted United Nations Special Envoy on Water, Retno Marsudi, took center stage, igniting a call to action for sustainable soil and water management to take precedence on the global political agenda. Retno Marsudi, who previously served as Indonesia’s foreign minister, brought her formidable expertise to the forefront as keynote speaker at this significant gathering. The event, orchestrated by the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) in partnership with Thailand’s Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives, aimed to spark rich discussions and collaborative efforts among diverse agencies, all with a singular focus: safeguarding these invaluable natural resources to ensure food security and sustainability for generations to come. As Ms. Marsudi eloquently highlighted, a staggering 70% of the Earth’s freshwater resources find their way into agriculture. This statistic paints a…
Picture this: a truck, adorned with steadfast commuters, navigating through the watery expanse of a highway submerged in Pattani province. A scene all too familiar as the southern regions brace once more for the onslaught of heavy rains. The Operation Centre for Flood and Landslide Victims has sounded the alarm, urging everyone—authorities and residents alike—to arm themselves against the potential deluge about to descend. Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, at the helm of this crisis response, has rallied over 4,000 officials into action. Each one, a foot soldier, geared up for the flood mitigation battle in the South. According to Sasikarn Wattanachan, the deputy spokeswoman of the Prime Minister’s Office, they’re steely-eyed and ready to face further inundations. Meanwhile, Det Lekwichai, the valiant deputy director-general of the Royal Irrigation Department (RID), assures a robust defense with at least 500 water pumps ready to leap into action. Especially poised are the…
New Hope for Thai Workers in South Korea: Voluntary Return Program Offers Amnesty Until January 2025
In an unexpected yet welcoming move, Thai workers residing illegally in South Korea have now found themselves granted a unique lifeline. Authorities are encouraging them to step forward and seize the opportunity presented by a voluntary return program—a golden ticket allowing them to dodge hefty fines and avoid other legal entanglements. The Thai embassy in Seoul has publicly announced this initiative, urging its citizens to visit the immigration office and make use of the amnesty before time runs out on January 31 of next year. For those who heed this call and report by the set deadline, there’s a significant reward waiting in the wings. No fines for overstaying will be imposed—a substantial relief for those caught in the web of undocumented life—the message resounds loud and clear across the embassy’s Facebook page, offering a beacon of hope for many. As highlighted in a revealing report by the Korea Times…
In a tale that has all the makings of a suspense thriller, the fate of the Thai crewmembers detained in Myanmar hangs in the balance. Last week, an incident off the coast of Ranong ignited a diplomatic conundrum, leaving the government of Thailand at the mercy of Nay Pyi Taw’s deliberations. Local authorities are at a standstill, unable to act without the green light from their neighbors across the border. Enter Defense Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, who on Monday expressed both resolve and restraint. The wheels of negotiation are turning, albeit slowly, as the Thai side has formally requested visitation rights to their compatriots, now held in Myanmar. It’s a situation that calls for tact, as Phumtham reminded everyone that a labyrinth of procedures and legal intricacies must be navigated with care. A ray of hope flickered when plans were made to initiate talks with the Thai-Myanmar Township Border Committee (TBC),…
The anticipation is palpable as the spotlight shifts to the forthcoming meeting of a newly formed tripartite wage committee. This gathering is poised to be a deciding factor in the government’s considerable plan to raise the national daily minimum wage to an impressive 400 baht, taking effect from the start of the new year, January 1, 2025. The initiative is being framed as a generous New Year’s gift to the hard-working populace and stands as one of the marquee policies of the governing Pheu Thai Party. Boonsong Thapchaiyuth, the Labour Permanent Secretary, conveyed that the 15-member tripartite committee is geared up and ready for the crucial meeting scheduled for Thursday. Interestingly, the cabinet has been active, recently appointing two new members to occupy previously empty seats, ensuring that all stations at the committee table are filled. This committee, a melting pot of diverse perspectives, includes representatives from the government, employers,…
Anutin Charnvirakul’s Resounding Opposition to a Bold Military Amendment Bill The political landscape of Thailand is as vibrant and compelling as ever, and recent events have taken center stage, captivating the attention of the nation. At the heart of this riveting drama is none other than Anutin Charnvirakul, the dynamic leader of the Bhumjaithai Party, known for his sharp wit and unyielding principles. The ruling Pheu Thai Party’s audacious proposal to amend the Defence Ministry Administration Act, aiming to mitigate the military’s propensity for coup d’etats, has set the stage for a political showdown of epic proportions. With all the charisma and eloquence one might expect from a seasoned politician, Anutin addressed the proverbial elephant in the room on a Monday bustling with media frenzy. He asserted with a knowing smile that passing such a bill might not deter the military’s coup ambitions. Instead, he emphasized, “Politicians should steer clear…