In a reverberating criticism that echoed through the parliament chambers yesterday, Pukkamon Nunarnan, an outspoken People’s Party MP often referred to by her moniker “Lisa,” lambasted the government’s colossal 26.5 billion baht provincial budget. As the numbers were tossed around the room on this third day of the fiscal budget debate for 2026, Lisa boldly wielded her words against the Interior Ministry’s budget, pointing out glaring disparities that seem to be growing roots deeper than ever across the nation. With the deftness of a seasoned orator, Lisa illuminated a worrying trend using World Bank data, illustrating that an estimated 70% of national expenditure showers upon Bangkok, effectively widening the yawning chasm between urban and rural growth. Her rhetoric painted a vivid picture: more than half of Thailand’s provinces, especially those nesting along the borders and cloistered in the furthest south, linger in the shadows of development. The promises that once…
Posts published in “Thailand”
As Thailand braces for the wrath of nature, the country’s Meteorological Department (TMD) has placed 39 provinces on high alert, warning residents of impending heavy rainfall, including the bustling capital, Bangkok. With a tempestuous mix of a southwest monsoon and a lurking low-pressure area over Hainan Island, the skies are set to unleash torrents that may render many areas waterlogged. While the industrious city folk of Bangkok rush to and fro, keeping one eye on the skies, those in hill-dotted regions and scenic low-lying areas must stay vigilant. The risk of sudden flash floods and unexpected landslides looms ominously. It’s a call to arms for farmers, who might ponder over clouds drenched with potential peril, yet could cleverly outmaneuver by crafting more efficient drainage systems to safeguard their precious crops and sturdy livestock. Meanwhile, over the shimmering expanses of the Andaman Sea, the weather remains deceptively moderate, belying an underlying…
It was an air of urgency and electric energy that enveloped the stately halls of Government House in Thailand. The charismatic and formidable Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, radiant in her determination, unfurled a plan so ambitious that it promised to rejuvenate the country’s beleaguered tourism industry. Known globally as the Land of Smiles, Thailand is poised for a transformation, turning its tourism woes into waves of prosperity. The 38-year-old Pheu Thai leader, with an eye firmly on the prize, has sounded a clarion call to action. Armed with a whopping 157 billion baht from the government’s stimulus plan, she’s not just twiddling her thumbs—she’s launching a full-throttled drive dedicated to tourism. Like an architect sketching the lines of a magnificent skyscraper, Paetongtarn has envisioned a Thailand that stands as a global travel titan. During a pressure-cooker meeting—one that could rival the tension of a thrilling Thai drama—Paetongtarn underscored the crucial…
In a political spectacle that has all the makings of a dramatic courtroom series, Energy Minister Pirapan Salirathavibhaga finds himself thrust into the limelight. All thanks to the relentless efforts of political activist Sonthiya Sawasdee, who is fighting tooth and nail to bring this matter to the Constitutional Court with the fervor of a TV detective on the trail of corruption. Mr. Sonthiya, brimming with determination, has formally appealed to the Office of the Attorney-General to probe deeper into Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s decision to appoint Mr. Pirapan as the Energy Minister. Armed with a petition as his weapon, Mr. Sonthiya believes that the waters run deeper, suggesting that there may have been some shady dealings involved. His call for action is emphatic, urging that this matter isn’t just swept under the rug but is delivered to the Constitutional Court to shine a light on the alleged constitutional breach. The…
The bustling metropolis of Bangkok is not only famous for its vibrant street life and cultural landmarks but also its skyline dotted with ever-reaching high-rise buildings. Recently, however, a rather unsettling revelation has shaken the city’s high-rise development scene. The Thailand Consumers Council (TCC) has raised alarm bells about thirteen glittering skyscraper projects that may have strayed far from adhering to the city’s stringent construction laws. Spearheading the discovery is Saree Aongsomwang, the secretary-general of TCC. On a sunny Thursday morning, she shared the council’s concern, revealing that they had received a flurry of grievances from residents in eleven neighborhoods. These residents courageously voiced their worries over safety and regulatory oversights surrounding the high-rise constructions threatening their community respites. Upon diving deeper into these complaints, the TCC uncovered instances of alleged discrepancies. An astonishing thirteen construction projects were found to have veered off designated paths, showing deviations from their approved…
Imagine landing in a new country, your anticipation for adventure bouncing off the airport walls. But there’s a hurdle–a language barrier, a potential fare dispute, or worse yet, a driver looking to take advantage. This scenario doesn’t just make for a bad day; it taints the overall experience. With Thailand positioning itself as a tourism haven, the Department of Land Transport (DLT) has decidedly cracked down to ensure that public transport embodies the kingdom’s renowned hospitality. With the dynamic energy of Bangkok and the postcard-perfect beaches of Phuket, every corner of Thailand thrives on its vibrant tourism. Recognizing how public transport is the veins that keep this heart beating, the DLT steps in to transcend mere oversight. Seksom Akraphand, the deputy director-general, has set his sights on a vision where transport isn’t just a service but a warm welcome to the world. To transform this vision into reality, the DLT…
Thailand’s idyllic island of Phuket, known for its stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife, was recently rocked by an unexpected ripple—a viral video capturing the reckless antics of youths firing guns into the sky at Surin Beach. The short but shocking 21-second clip, first shared on the Facebook page Phuket Exposed (แฉยับ ภูเก็ต), caught the attention of many as it circulated online under the hashtag #ThisIsPhuket. Although the video depicted young individuals discharging firearms without aiming at anyone, it ignited a widespread fear for tourist safety and raised questions about the effectiveness of law enforcement on this tourist haven. The sight of gunfire lighting up the night sky was no mere youthful prank; instead, it sparked a wave of indignation among locals and concerned internet users. While there were no reports of injuries from this so-called “gun practice,” the public’s alarm was palpable. Many warned of the potential threats such acts…
In a surprising twist of fate typically reserved for fiction, a well-intentioned Thai man’s admirable attempt to lend a helping hand to those in need turned into an unexpected spectacle of drama in the northern province of Nakhon Sawan. Picture the scene: a kind-hearted food vendor, offering sustenance to the less fortunate out of sheer goodwill, suddenly finds himself at the receiving end of an unprovoked punch from a homeless man. It’s a tale that is equal parts bewildering and eye-opening, one that caught the attention of many after a video of the incident went viral on social media just yesterday, May 29. The incident unraveled near a pedestrian bridge, where the homeless man, donning a red shirt reminiscent of a tropical sunset, unleashed his unexpected fury. His loud accusation, “You wanna fight me, huh? You’re so annoying!” echoed off the surrounding architecture as our kind-hearted vendor hastily retreated to…
In an exciting development for travelers seeking the picturesque allure of Cambodia’s southern coast, Air Cambodia has revived its direct connection between Sihanoukville and Bangkok. From the sun-drenched date of May 22, the airline has committed to twice-weekly flights, operating this highly anticipated route every Thursday and Sunday. Utilizing the reliable Airbus A320, which boasts a crisp seating capacity of 180, this venture undeniably enhances convenience for tourists and wanderers eager to explore Cambodia’s idyllic islands. Although Air Cambodia already ensures seamless connectivity with its daily services between Phnom Penh and Bangkok, it currently stands as the esteemed carrier uniquely linking Thailand’s buzzing capital with the serene Sihanoukville, acting as a vital portal to holiday havens such as the celebrated Koh Rong. This refreshing reinstatement of flights is destined to invigorate tourism and cultural interactions between these two vibrant nations, beckoning visitors to unravel Cambodia’s coastal treasures with greater ease…
As June breathes life into the heart of Thailand with its fervent festivities, the Department of Rural Roads (DRR) is planning a dazzling spectacle over the Chao Phraya River, set to paint the night sky with hues of admiration and loyalty. In a heartfelt homage to Her Majesty Queen Suthida Bajrasudhabimalalakshana’s birthday on June 3, 2025, this radiant event will illuminate the Bangkok skyline, transforming seven majestic bridges into glowing beacons of celebration and gratitude. The bridges, like strings of bright pearls adorning the Chao Phraya’s gentle flow, will light up from June 2-4. This luminous tribute will envelop: Maha Chesadabodindranusorn Bridge Krung Thon Bridge (Sang Hi) Memorial Bridge Phra Pok Klao Bridge King Taksin the Great Bridge Bhumibol 1 Bridge Bhumibol 2 Bridge From 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM on June 2 and 4, and extending to midnight on the illustrious June 3, these architectural marvels will not just…