The centuries-old sculptures of giants at Wat Umong in Chiang Mai have recently sparked considerable public debate. The before-and-after photos of these ancient artworks, displayed by the Fine Arts Department, have been met with both commendation and criticism. The images unveil the significant changes made during the restoration, which some argue may have done more harm than good. (Photos: Fine Arts Department) The restoration endeavor aimed at these 500-year-old sculptures, standing two meters tall, was undertaken by the Fine Arts Department, which has since faced a barrage of backlash. Critics accuse the department of making a mess of the historical treasures located in the tambon Suthep of Chiang Mai’s Muang district. Mr. Phanombut Chantarachot, the director-general of the department, defended the restoration efforts on Tuesday, asserting that the work adhered to set standards designed to maintain the sculptures’ original features as closely as possible. Mr. Phanombut emphasized that the decision…
Posts published in “Thailand”
The Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) has concluded that the officer who died during a rigorous special training program was not a victim of physical abuse. Instead, the unfortunate event was attributed to existing health problems. The verdict comes in the wake of accusations made on a Facebook page, alleging that Pol Cpl Rattapong succumbed to kidney failure and heat stroke during an intense drill by the Special Service Division (SSD). The post further speculated that the officer’s body was returned to his family in Lamphun without an autopsy under instructions from his commander. The social media claims didn’t stop there; it was also suggested that the SSD commander had brushed off ordering a fact-finding investigation and allowed the training to continue unabated, with the officer’s death shrouded in silence. The post painted a disturbing picture, stating, “Officers planning to quit the training would be physically assaulted, beaten, kicked, and severely…
The Fine Arts Department found itself in hot water yesterday as it defended its recent restoration of 500-year-old giant sculptures at a Chiang Mai temple, following an outcry from the public. Phanombut Chantarachot, the director-general of the department, stepped into the spotlight to address the criticism. He emphasized that the restoration of the two-metre-tall plaster giants at Wat Umong in tambon Suthep, Chiang Mai’s Muang district, was meticulously executed to adhere to preservation standards. “We aimed to retain their original essence as much as possible,” Phanombut explained, defending the decision to remake the long-missing parts like arms rather than merely cleaning them up. After all, Wat Umong is not just a historic site; it’s an active temple that regularly opens its doors to countless tourists and devout Buddhists. The director-general’s comments were a direct response to a wave of media scrutiny, spurred by photos of the restored sculptures that depicted…
The government has set its sights on fostering cultural tourism between Nan, a picturesque province in the North of Thailand, and Luang Prabang, the historic gem and former capital of Laos. Announced by government spokesman Chai Watcharonke, this strategic move aligns with Thailand’s aspirations to highlight Nan’s unique charm and potentially earn it the prestigious status of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This ambitious plan received the green light from the cabinet in March, endorsing the Culture Ministry’s initiative. Nan’s allure lies in its exceptionally preserved prehistoric archaeological sites, a rich tapestry of ethnic diversity, and profound local wisdom—elements that make it an outstanding contender for the world heritage nomination. Mr. Chai emphasized the province’s abundant natural and cultural assets, which hold significant promise for bolstering tourism in the region. This northern province, with its treasure trove of heritage, could serve as a beacon of tourism, shining brightly alongside the…
The Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) has concluded that a police officer who tragically passed away during special training was not a victim of physical abuse. Instead, his pre-existing health issues were determined to be the cause of his death. This conclusion comes after sensational claims were made on a Facebook page, which alleged that Pol Cpl Rattapong succumbed to kidney failure and heat stroke during a drill conducted by the Special Service Division (SSD). The Facebook post stirred up a whirlwind of rumors, asserting that Rattapong’s body was returned to his family in Lamphun without an autopsy, supposedly on the orders of his commander. The post further criticized the SSD commander for allegedly not initiating a fact-finding probe, allowing the training to persist and keeping Rattapong’s death under wraps. Most alarmingly, the post claimed that officers contemplating quitting the training were savagely abused, facing beatings, kicks, and brutal stomping. In…
In the quiet hours before dawn, a catastrophic blaze ripped through the Sri Somrat Market in Bangkok’s bustling Chatuchak district. The inferno, which erupted at approximately 4:10 AM, claimed the lives of thousands of animals, including numerous exotic species, and sent shockwaves through the local community. The Sri Somrat market, a vibrant hub behind the JJ Mall on Kamphaeng Phet 3 Road, houses 118 pet shops sprawled across an extensive 1,400 square meters. When the fire broke out, flames quickly engulfed the area, turning a lively marketplace into a scene of despair and devastation. Alerted by the blaze, firefighters from several stations scrambled to the scene, working with urgency and coordination. Their dedication paid off, as they managed to extinguish the hellish flames in about 30 minutes. However, despite their swift action, the damage was irreparable. Heartbroken vendors recounted their losses amid the smoldering remains of their shops. Like the…
Former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra, center, was recently seen enjoying dinner in Chiang Mai with the current Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, left, and former prime minister Somchai Wongsawat, his brother-in-law. This casual dinner snapshot is making waves, especially since Thaksin finds himself in hot water again. (Supplied photo) Protest groups, fueled with determination, have boldly approached the army, urging them to oppose a bail request anticipated from the paroled former premier Thaksin Shinawatra. As Thaksin prepares to face prosecutors next week to acknowledge charges related to lese majeste and computer crimes, these groups, notably the Network of Students and People Reforming Thailand and Thai People Protecting the Monarchy, won’t let it slide quietly. The protesters made their way to army headquarters on Tuesday, petition in hand, echoing their message to stall Thaksin’s bail. They are rallying against his request when he meets prosecutors to formally acknowledge his indictment under Section…
In a fervent effort to uphold justice, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has submitted a detailed investigative report to the Ministry of Justice regarding the grim disappearances of nine self-exiled Thai political activists. These individuals, who sought refuge in neighboring countries, have vanished under distressing circumstances, prompting the NHRC to demand serious governmental action. On a solemn Tuesday, Sayamol Kaiyoorawong, an NHRC member, presented this crucial report to Somboon Muangklam, an adviser to Justice Minister Tawee Sodsong and chairman of the committee dedicated to the Prevention and Suppression of Torture and Enforced Disappearance. The report casts a stark light on the cases of activists who disappeared between 2017 and 2021 after fleeing to Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam. The missing activists include Ittipon Sukpaen, Wuthipong Kochathamakun, Surachai Danwattananusorn, Chucheep Chiwasut, Kritsana Thapthai, Siam Theerawut, and Wanchalearm Satsaksit. Tragically, the last two, Chatcharn Buppawan and Kraidej Luelert, were found dead, their…
Wissanu Krea-ngam, a seasoned legal adviser to the prime minister, recently voiced concerns over accusations tainting the Senate election, casting a shadow of doubt over the process. These comments came in the wake of complaints regarding potential irregularities in last Sunday’s district-level voting. When asked if he was worried, Wissanu acknowledged that although issues arose in district voting, they were relatively minor compared to the broader scheme of the election. “The Election Commission (EC) reported a smooth voting process in most districts due to a low number of applicants,” Wissanu said. “However, once voting ascends to provincial and national levels, concerns might arise,” he hinted, leaving the gravity of his concern open to interpretation. Supporting these apprehensions, Caretaker Senator Somchai Swangkarn called upon the EC to make public the district-level voting results amid mounting complaints. According to him, multiple candidates had requested the poll outcomes, only to have their appeals…
A heartwarming scene unfolded at Banbangkapi School in January when a teacher, a student, and the student’s guardian exchanged the iconic wai greetings. Captured beautifully by photographer Varuth Hirunyatheb, this snapshot illustrated a tradition deeply embedded in Thai culture. Recently, an exciting development has emerged: the cabinet has officially recognized the “wai” gesture as a national identity for greetings and expressions of respect. This was announced by deputy government spokesman Karom Phonphonklang, adding another layer of significance to this cherished custom. Though the roots of the “wai” gesture trace back to India, carried through Hindu and Buddhist beliefs across Southeast Asia, Thais have ingeniously curated their own unique version. “In Thailand, we’ve developed an array of ‘wai’ gestures, each embodying a spectrum of profound meanings,” explained Karom. These variations show the depth and adaptability of the gesture within Thai society. Performing the “wai” involves intricately straightening the palms with all…