In a dazzling display of regal splendor, designated viewing spots line the vibrant Chao Phraya River today in Bangkok, as spectators eagerly anticipate the Royal Barge Procession’s full-dress rehearsal. This grand event, thoughtfully orchestrated by the Public Relations Department, promises a breathtaking spectacle as part of a prestigious royal kathin ceremony slated for October 27, in honor of His Majesty the King’s 72nd birthday, celebrated on July 28. Offering a visual feast to both Thai nationals and international visitors, the rehearsal invites everyone to partake in today’s ceremonious event. Fifty-two majestic barges, manned by a formidable force of 2,200 oarsmen, will glide serenely across the river. These stately vessels will progress in a striking formation, organized into five rows and three columns, measuring an impressive 1,200 meters in length and 90 meters in width. Charting a picturesque route, the procession embarks from the historic Wasukri Pier, also known as Wat…
Posts published in “Thailand”
As we navigate the hustle and bustle of project developments, the Laem Chabang Port stands as a beacon of progress in Thailand’s bustling Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC). The ambitious third phase of its expansion project is currently cruising at about a 45% completion rate, with Pier F poised to make a grand debut in late 2027, staying true to the expectations set by the deputy transport minister, Manaporn Charoensri. Who doesn’t love it when a plan comes together, right? This colossal endeavor is not just a brick-and-mortar project, but it’s part of the coveted EEC Development Plan, meticulously mapped out among the 15 high-priority infrastructure projects under the Paetongtarn Shinawatra administration’s keen watch. With an authoritative nod, Minister Manaporn mentioned that as of October 11th, the monumental task was slightly trailing its target, sitting at 45% instead of the anticipated 48.95%, as per reports from the Port Authority of Thailand…
As the majestic lands of Chiang Mai reverberate with the echoes of recent calamity, an inspiring tale of resilience and unity unfolds. Amidst the enchanting ruins of Wat Hua Nong in the storied sanctuary of Wiang Kum Kam, mighty pumps whir in a valiant endeavor to drain the remnants of flooding that threatened to alter the city’s picturesque charm. From the governor’s desk to the bustling streets, the mark of progress is immaculately carved. Governor Nirat Pongsitthithaworn, a stalwart figure in this challenging chapter, brings promising news to the citizens of this northern jewel. Driven by a relentless pursuit to restore normalcy, he announces a triumphant 40% waste collection coupled with a remarkable 90% cleanup of streets. An ambitious roadmap is laid, promising total recovery by the end of the month. Just in time, might I add, to polish the city’s dazzling allure for the eagerly anticipated tourist high season…
As the odyssey through the bustling Suvarnabhumi airport unfolds, eager travelers meander like a long, winding river through the immigration counters. The date is February 10, 2024, and the air is thick with anticipation and the distant hum of jet engines preparing for their next venture. This scene, captured vividly by the click of Somchai Poomlard’s camera, represents just one chapter in a transformative tale brewing beneath the tropical skies of Southeast Asia. Cambodia, a land of ancient temples and vibrant cultures, has given its enthusiastic nod to an ambitious Thai initiative known as “6 Countries, 1 Destination.” This singular visa policy echoes like a call to adventure, intending to turn six nations into a collective tourism haven, drawing wanderers to its varied landscapes and experiences. Thailand, with its proposal of this initiative, seeks to anchor itself as the maritime hub of regional tourism, and the Idea was heralded by…
In a compelling twist of events, the government is fast-tracking some much-needed legislative reboots in its crusade against modern-day pyramid schemes. Spearheaded by keen-eyed Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat, the initiative aims to shore up vulnerable areas within related laws, thus setting a trap for those who dance to the deceptive tunes of such schemes. This formidable task is also on the radar of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. The leader has tasked several agencies—including the stalwart warriors at the Justice Ministry and Finance Ministry—to sift through the intricacies of these laws with a fine-toothed comb, ensuring no stone is left unturned and no legal loophole unsealed. Minister Julapun stepped into the spotlight following a sobering wake-up call from senators, who are drawing attention to the havoc wreaked by the flamboyant saga known as The iCon Group scandal. This high-stakes melodrama has sent ripples through numerous legal corridors, such as the…
In an unfolding drama that seems straight from a movie script, forty-three non-governmental organizations are rallying for justice, taking aim at none other than Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. Their target? Ensuring that justice prevails for the seven defendants linked to the poignant 2004 Tak Bai massacre. The clock is ticking as the case’s statute of limitations is about to slip through the sands of time this Friday. An open letter, akin to a loud plea for action, was revealed amidst the discussions at a forum this past Monday. At the heart of the forum’s heated deliberations was the impending expiration of a case that has turned heads and ruffled feathers, involving lawmakers and some high-ranking state officials. One of the prominent figures tangled in this web is none other than Pisal Wattanawongkiri, a figure who once walked the corridors of power as a list MP for the influential Pheu Thai…
In the serene realms of Chon Buri lies the Khao Kheow Open Zoo, a sanctuary where animals roam freely, delighting visitors from around the globe. However, this tranquil haven recently found itself thrust into the social media spotlight, not for its splendid wildlife or lush landscapes, but rather due to an unsettling incident involving a group of Chinese tourists. A TikTok video, captioned rather tersely as “Not cute at all,” depicted these tourists, accompanied by their guide, wielding a slingshot in the zoo’s Tiger Valley zone. What was meant to be a fun-filled day out soon turned into a viral sensation for all the wrong reasons. The footage, seen by countless netizens, sparked concern and outrage over animal welfare at the zoo. Krittaphas Intipanya, the vigilant head of security at Khao Kheow Open Zoo, took swift action. On a bustling Monday morning, under the directive of the proactive zoo director,…
In the ever-evolving theater of Thai politics, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra exudes a calm confidence that seems to rival that of a seasoned poker player. Recently, she found herself unruffled in the wake of the Election Commission’s (EC) decision to probe allegations which could potentially spell dissolution for her ruling Pheu Thai Party and its five coalition comrades. The complaint? An intriguing accusation of allowing an outsider to pull political strings behind the scenes. The scandalous scene purportedly unfolded with key figures from Pheu Thai, Bumjaithai, United Thai Nation (UTN), Palang Pracharath (PPRP), Chartthaipattana, and Prachachat parties all gathering at the home of the once-mighty, former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra. This clandestine meeting took place on the very day Srettha Thavisin was ousted from his prime ministerial post. August 14 marked an unexpected turn of events when Mr. Srettha was dismissed by the Constitutional Court. His transgression? Appointing Pichit Chuenban,…
It was an otherwise tranquil Monday morning in Chiang Rai’s Muang district when local law enforcement officers and forestry experts descended upon the Cherntawan International Meditation Centre. Nestled within the picturesque Doi Pui National Forest Reserve, the center is run by the renowned monk and preacher, Phra Maha Vudhijaya Vajiramedhi, or V Vajiramedhi as he’s affectionately known. However, the tranquillity of meditation was disrupted by swirling allegations that the center might have encroached upon the protected forest land. The petite but determined force was spearheaded by Pol Lt Gen Yodsawat Aekkul from the Central Investigation Bureau’s Natural Resources and Environmental Crime Division, alongside Prasit Thachang, the astute director of Chiang Rai’s Forest Resource Management Office 2. Their mission was straightforward yet significant: to investigate claims that the peaceful meditation center had stretched its boundaries further than the amicable consent obtained from the forestry bureau, raising concerns about illegal encroachment into…
Amidst the serene landscapes of northeastern Thailand, a storm brews as an alleged pyramid scheme sees monks caught in a web of deceit, resulting in losses exceeding a billion baht. This intriguing tale, laden with both unease and lessons, unraveled when the Prime Minister’s Office took notice. Minister Chousak Sirinil, overseeing the National Office of Buddhism (NOB), found himself amidst reports of a scandal so surreal it could only belong to this era of digital deceit. Referred to as the “Ban Share Nong Carrot” scheme, this pyramid escapade cleverly lured its unwitting participants, monks no less, into its elaborate charade of bogus stock investments. Though Mr. Chousak has yet to receive a comprehensive report, he’s tasked the NOB to thoroughly delve into the matter. In his words, “I insist that the actions are being taken according to instructions from the PM’s office.” While the spiritual sanctity of monastic rules is…