Posts published in “Thailand”

When Senator Alongkot Worakee made a surprise entrance into the media circus, it wasn’t for a grand speech or heated debate but rather for an enigmatic linguistic twist. At the tender age of 61, the senator, who hails from the blue political fortress of Uthai Thani, found himself enveloped in a curious cloud of speculation, largely of his own making. He stunned the crowd, again, by dodging the relentless barrage of press inquiries with a simple, steadfast response delivered in a language not widely expected: “Je ne parle pas” [I’m not saying]. This intriguing replay was set in motion after his rather peculiar appearance before the Election Commission (EC) on a sunny Monday morning. They had called him, along with 54 other senators, to untangle a somewhat tangled web of Senate election collusion allegations stemming from the 2024 Senate election. Reporters, refusing to let go like a dog with a…

Amidst the verdant trails and sweeping sandstone peaks of Phu Kradueng National Park, a sparkling gem of a discovery has emerged, courtesy of an intrepid team of researchers from Chulalongkorn University. Imagine the excitement in the air as these dedicated botanists, armed with magnifying glasses and scientific zeal, ventured into the lush greenery of this natural wonderland, unearthing what might just be a treasure trove of leafy delights set to grace the pages of the world’s botanical records. Their mission was to explore the diverse realm of pteridophytes – spore-bearing plants like ferns, which possess an ancient lineage and elegance that would give any garden a run for its money. With the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation rallying behind them, this adventure in plants led to some sensational finds. Picture this: three species which have not just escaped the notice of botanists worldwide, but are entirely new…

On a bright, bustling Thursday, a notable figure took center stage in the heart of Thailand: Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai. Known for his thoughtful reflections and nuanced perspectives, Phumtham addressed a gathering on an eventful occasion—the 10th anniversary of the 2014 coup orchestrated by the now-defunct National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO). With the historical weight of that day hanging in the air, he entreated the nation to draw lessons from the past to fortify the pillars of democracy. In a moment that oscillated between contemplation and pragmatism, Phumtham leveraged his platform to emphasize patience as a virtue. “History is our tutor,” he reminded the audience, underscoring that democratic processes, though at times arduous, should never be compromised for expedient gains. As eyes turned toward him, the question on everyone’s mind was simple yet loaded: Could Thailand witness another coup? “Such guarantees are beyond my reach,” he remarked with…

In the bustling heart of Thailand, where the rhythmic hum of traffic is as familiar as the sun setting over the Chao Phraya River, the air was abruptly shattered on March 15. A tragic mishap unfolded on the under-construction Rama III–Dao Khanong–Outer Ring Road Expressway. It was a day that would echo in the memories of many, particularly those finding themselves amidst the calamity. March 16 saw the diligent workers from the Expressway Authority of Thailand laboriously clearing the wreckage left by a collapsed beam. This wasn’t just any beam—it was a centerpiece of the new elevated Chalerm Maha Nakhon expressway on Rama II Road, nestled in the vibrant district of Chom Thong. The incident did more than clog the traffic—it also left a somber mark, taking five lives and leaving 22 others injured. This grave incident occurred near the Dao Khanong toll plaza on a stretch of the expressway…

As Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra strides confidently into the heart of London, her visit is no ordinary diplomatic affair. It is a mission that blends cultural export with strategic economic initiative, and its heart pulses with the rhythm of an ancient martial art — Muay Thai. Visiting a Muay Thai training facility in London, the Prime Minister highlights the sport’s explosive rise in popularity. With over 500 dedicated facilities now dotted across the United Kingdom, it’s clear that Muay Thai has muscled its way into the spotlight. The Prime Minister pledged to standardize training regimens to bolster its global reach — creating pact between sport and diplomacy. During her visit, Paetongtarn also sampled a slice of Asia by touring Wing Yip, an iconic Asian supermarket chain that stands as a bastion of multicultural flavor. Accompanied by a Thai delegation that included Deputy Permanent Secretary for Commerce Ekachat Seetavorarat, and Deputy…