Former Pheu Thai Party spokesman Prompong Nopparit is making waves by bringing Gen Prawit Wongsuwon’s attendance—or lack thereof—into the spotlight. Prompong has approached the Immigration Bureau to release Gen Prawit Wongsuwon’s immigration records, aiming to verify the Palang Pracharath Party (PPRP) leader’s excuse for missing numerous House sessions. On Monday, Mr Prompong earnestly appealed to the IB to unveil Gen Prawit’s immigration clearance history, highlighting that as per the Official Information Act, he’s entitled to request such information as a citizen. This comes in the wake of Gen Prawit’s claims that his frequent absences were due to official duties abroad. Astonishingly, data from the House of Representatives’ secretariat reveals that Gen Prawit missed a staggering 84 out of 95 House meetings convened between July 3 last year and this month. The reasons cited? Either official trips overseas or health-related issues. However, Mr Prompong isn’t buying it on face value; he…
Posts published in “Thailand”
Both industry and manufacturing in Thailand are currently navigating through stormy waters. Recent data unveils a troubling trend of factory closures, with the gap between openings and closures narrowing alarmingly to under 100 factories per month on average. However, a silver lining exists; larger factory openings are on the rise, marking a notable 25.9% increase in new industrial establishments in the first seven months of 2024 compared to the same period last year. As we move forward, it becomes paramount for all stakeholders to reflect on past experiences and collaborate, ensuring a sustainable trajectory for industrial development. Against a backdrop of challenging global economic conditions, one of Thailand’s key industrial initiatives, the Free Zone, demonstrates the nation’s potential as a manufacturing hub for global import and export businesses. Administered by The Customs Department, the Free Zone was designed to offer customs benefits for various industrial activities that bolster the country’s…
In the year 2019, Maurice Lacroix unveiled a true marvel of horology, the world’s first AIKON Mercury timepiece, birthed in their Manufacture in Saignelégier, serenely nestled in the heart of the Swiss Jura. At a casual glance, the AIKON Mercury might seem like an ordinary watch. But with a gentle tilt or the slightest movement of the wrist, something magical happens—the hour and minute hands shift, whimsically straying from the correct time. Raise your wrist to check the time, and as if by enchantment, the hands swiftly realign to display the precise time. It’s this captivating illusion, reminiscent of how time seems to slip away unnoticed, only to reappear when we need it most, that makes the AIKON Mercury so mesmerizing. This ingenious mechanism was three years in the making, blending Maurice Lacroix’s hallmark innovation with sleek, modern aesthetics. The AIKON Mercury is not just a timepiece; it’s a testament…
On 1 October 2024, Aviyana Hua Hin celebrated its grand opening with a ceremony that effortlessly blended opulence with nature. Nestled along the tranquil Cha-Am coastline, this luxurious resort is destined to become a top choice for corporate retreats, high-profile events, and upscale getaways. The opening event was graced by prominent industry leaders and distinguished guests who enjoyed a day brimming with unforgettable experiences. Leading the ceremony was Sumalee Khurana, Managing Director of Aviyana Hua Hin, who eloquently conveyed the resort’s mission: “Aviyana Hua Hin is more than just a place to stay; it’s a sanctuary where luxury meets tranquillity. We are excited to offer a space where business and pleasure converge seamlessly.” Following Khurana’s poignant words, Resort Manager Chanchai Preecha spoke about the resort’s unique market position, stating, “With our world-class facilities and commitment to personalised service, Aviyana Hua Hin is poised to set a new standard in corporate…
Senator Nantana Nantavaropas is rallying the Commerce Ministry to extend a lifeline to SMEs beleaguered by the influx of inexpensive, low-quality goods flooding the Thai market through e-commerce platforms. In a Senate session held yesterday, Sen. Nantana confronted Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan about the overpowering influence of multinational e-commerce giants on local businesses in Thailand. She emphasized the meteoric rise of platforms like Temu, which lure consumers with a smorgasbord of ultra-affordable items by sidestepping middlemen. However, Sen. Nantana warned that while these low prices might seem tantalizing, they often entail subpar quality. The goods delivered are sometimes unsafe, contaminated, or perilously close to expiration, only to end up as waste, she cautioned. The reverberations of this trend are being keenly felt by Thai merchants. More consumers are opting to purchase directly from Chinese manufacturers via these e-commerce channels, which has led to a swelling trade deficit between Thailand and…
Political activist Ruangkrai Leekitwattana says he will ask the Election Commission (EC) on Tuesday to investigate Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s ethical conduct over her shares in Alpine Golf and Sports Club. The company bought a controversial monastic plot in Pathum Thani, now home to the prestigious Alpine Golf Club and a residential complex. Mr. Ruangkrai announced on Monday his intent to request that the EC scrutinize whether Ms. Paetongtarn violated Section 160 (4) of the constitution, which mandates that cabinet ministers must be manifestly honest, and the ethical guidelines outlined in Section 8. The crux of his concern lies in Ms. Paetongtarn’s recent transfer of shares. According to Mr. Ruangkrai, Ms. Paetongtarn transferred her shares in the company to her mother, Khunying Potjaman Damapong, on September 3. He presented copies of documents from the Department of Business Development, revealing that the company held a shareholders’ meeting on April 30. During…
Former Pheu Thai Party spokesman, Prompong Nopparit, has officially requested that the Immigration Bureau release Prawit Wongsuwon’s travel records to substantiate the Palang Pracharath Party (PPRP) leader’s assertion that his frequent absences from House sessions were due to international trips. With the intention of upholding the transparency mandated by the Official Information Act, Mr. Prompong pressed for the public disclosure of these records. This call to action followed Gen Prawit’s claims that his inability to attend numerous House meetings was a result of his official duties abroad. According to the House of Representatives secretariat, Gen Prawit missed an astonishing 84 out of 95 House meetings from July 3rd last year to the present month, attributing his absences to either overseas duties or illness. Mr. Prompong emphasized the necessity of providing documentary evidence to support Gen Prawit’s explanations. “Which airlines did he use? Were the regulations regarding travel expense disbursement followed?”…
The Thai Sang Thai (TST) Party has raised a significant stir by recommending that a controversial study suggesting amnesty for lese majeste offenders be pulled from the House debate agenda set for this Thursday. Chawalit Wichayasut, a deputy leader of the modestly-sized six-MP TST, insists that the government should safeguard the monarchy rather than paving the way for amnesty to those convicted of defiling it. In Thailand, Section 6 of the constitution is crystal clear: the monarch embodies reverence and is beyond reproach. No individual can smear or initiate legal action against the ruler. Mr. Chawalit emphasized that the government has an entrenched constitutional duty to shield the monarch, pointing out that many nations have laws to protect their heads of state and leaders. According to Mr. Chawalit, the study in question, commissioned by a special House committee, is far from perfect and should be struck out from Thursday’s parliamentary…
In a poignant snapshot from September 3, 2023, the image of CNS ‘Chang Cheng’—a submarine integral to Thai-Chinese military exercises in Chon Buri province—encapsulates a significant chapter in maritime defense collaboration. This formidable vessel, captured in a file photo courtesy of the Royal Thai Navy, signifies more than just technological prowess; it highlights a strategic partnership with profound implications for regional security. Recently appointed navy chief, Adm Jirapol Wongwit, is resolute in advancing Thailand’s submarine procurement project with China. Fresh from the ceremonial handover of command, Adm Jirapol expressed his determination to meet with Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister, Phumtham Wechayachai, to elucidate the strategic necessity of this initiative. The admiral emphasized that the submarine program is not merely an acquisition but a cornerstone of the navy’s long-term capability-building agenda. He is committed to tackling any apprehensions the defence minister might harbor. “The navy is also ready to vigorously…
Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit has emphatically decreed that all future electric train network plans outside Bangkok must safeguard the sanctity of historical sites within inner-city areas. This directive comes in the wake of the Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand’s (MRTA) ambitious proposal to develop electric rail networks across major cities like Chiang Mai, Nakhon Ratchasima, Phuket, and Phitsanulok, with an estimated combined budget of 77 billion baht. The primary objective of these projects, according to the MRTA, is to offer residents a modern public transport option aimed at alleviating chronic congestion in urban centers while enhancing access to tourism hotspots located on the outskirts. However, the proposed 30-billion-baht electric train route in Chiang Mai has stirred considerable debate, with many critics voicing concerns over the potential threat to historical sites in the Muang district. Responding to these apprehensions, Minister Suriya has suggested a balanced approach:…