In the ever-enticing world of Thai politics, the saga continues as key players from the ruling Pheu Thai Party and their tempestuous coalition partner, Bhumjaithai, just can’t stop stealing the limelight with their relentless public bickering. What started as a political marriage of convenience has transformed into a full-blown soap opera, captivating the nation and leaving onlookers speculating about the coalition’s vulnerability. Ever since they teamed up a little over two years ago, the Pheu Thai and Bhumjaithai partnership has been plagued by all sorts of rifts. Imagine a dramatic movie with its share of plot twists, starting with Bhumjaithai’s bold move to legalize cannabis, a campaign that Pheu Thai desperately tried to overturn during Srettha Thavisin’s reign. Fast forward to the clash over the double majority rule in the referendum law versus Pheu Thai’s single majority vision, leading up to today’s big showdown—the controversial casino legalization bill. Pheu Thai,…
Posts published in “Thailand”
In a significant diplomatic stride marking his presidency, Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto is poised to embark on his inaugural official visit to the vibrant realm of Thailand this coming Monday. This tour promises to be more than just a mere exchange of pleasantries, as it will see the formal elevation of the Indonesia-Thailand relationship to a noteworthy echelon – a strategic partnership. This momentous occasion was spotlighted by Deputy Foreign Ministry spokesperson Panidone Pachimsawat in a briefing that hinted at the transformative potential of this bilateral engagement. For Gen Prabowo, this journey ushers in a host of firsts. It is not only his maiden voyage to Thailand since assuming office in October of 2024, but it also signifies the first time in two decades that an Indonesian president is setting foot in Thailand for an official visit. It’s a historic marker that underscores the enduring relationship between these neighboring nations,…
In a highly anticipated diplomatic rendezvous, Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto is set to embark on his maiden voyage to the dynamic land of smiles, Thailand, this coming Monday. This journey is more than just an official visit; it’s a historical leap into the future as the two nations gear up to unveil a groundbreaking strategic partnership, cementing their ties stronger than ever before. Deputy Foreign Ministry spokesperson, the eloquent Panidone Pachimsawat, confidently confirmed this momentous occasion at yesterday’s lively press briefing. In what is set to be President Subianto’s first official foray to Thailand since assuming the presidential throne in October 2024, it also heralds the first visit by an Indonesian head of state to the vibrant streets of Thailand in two whole decades. During this legendary visit, President Subianto will find himself in animated discussions with Thailand’s visionary Prime Minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra. Rumor has it, these diplomatic powerhouses will…
In the ever-evolving world of politics and governance, the winds of change are forever blowing—sometimes with the faintest breeze, and at other times, with the force of a tempest. Such is the scene at the Ministry of Justice on a quiet February day as the ever-dedicated Deputy Prime Minister, Phumtham Wechayachai, finds himself in the spotlight. It’s a role that brings with it not just the responsibility of leadership but also the swirl of discussions and speculations that often accompany high-stakes governance. In a scene reminiscent of a suspenseful drama, the Constitutional Court’s recent decision to put Justice Minister Pol Col Tawee Sodsong on pause has fired up the corridors of power with whispers and decisions that could upset the usual ebb and flow. Stepping into this charged atmosphere, Mr. Phumtham, a seasoned leader who already helms the Special Case Committee, is poised to take the reins of the Department…
The serene and majestic landscape of Phu Kradueng stands at the center of a heated discussion. Are we venturing into a new epoch of tourism evolution, or lifting the curtain on a misunderstood conservation strategy? At the center of it all is the persistent proposal of a cable car, a topic that’s been hanging in the air for over three decades. Representing Loei’s Constituency 3, the indefatigable Saran Timsuwan of the Pheu Thai Party has emerged as a stalwart advocate of this project, passionately detailing its nuances and significance. He is succinct in his message: the 25.7-million-baht budget sanctioned by the government is earmarked for designing and conducting a meticulous Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), integral to bringing the cable car project to life. Yet, Saran is keenly aware of the swirling misconceptions. “The funds are religiously allocated. They’re not sidetracked for roads or, heaven forbid, electric trams snaking across the…
As dawn breaks over the majestic peaks of Phu Kradueng National Park, the sun stretches its golden arms across the mist-laden terrain, creating a breathtaking tableau that seems plucked from a dream. Enthusiasts huddle at Pha Nok Aen viewpoint, cherishing the ethereal beauty of a new day rising in Loei province. Yet, amidst this natural serenity, a storm of controversy brews over the proposed cable car project—a divisive topic that has once again captured the public’s attention. At the heart of the debate are concerns about sustainable development and whether the project might be a silent prelude to the exploitation of fragile ecosystems under the guise of tourism advancement. Last month, these anxieties were reignited when the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP) granted an extension for a feasibility study on the cable car. The decision followed the Budget Bureau’s approval of a significant 25.7-million-baht grant, earmarked…
Picture this: The State Railway of Thailand (SRT), known for bringing innovative solutions aboard, is ramping up its efforts once more. This time, the iconic KiHa 40 and 48 diesel trains, generously donated by Japan, are gearing up for a new lease on life. As the vibrant energy of another year pulsates through Thailand’s railway lines, these trains are goling another step closer to their exhilarating suburban adventure! So, what can enthusiastic travelers anticipate from this audacious initiative? SRT’s governor, the ever-dedicated Veeris Ammarapala, offers us a tantalizing hint. These second-hand treasures are receiving meticulous upgrades to ensure seamless transition onto Thailand’s distinctive narrow-gauge tracks. From an initial brood of twenty units undergoing comprehensive renovation, the stars of this show are prepped to roll out on stage by the end of the year. Perhaps the most electrifying chapter of this grand unconventional tale is unfolding behind the scenes at SRT’s…
Picture yourself standing amidst the bustling streets of Phuket’s Old Town, where vibrant colors dance in the air, and the rhythmic beats of a lively parade echo through the historic lanes. Yes, it’s that time of year again when Phuket unfurls its famously festive spirit, taking center stage with the much-anticipated Phuket Peranakan Festival 2025. Taking place from June 20-22, this extravagant event promises not just a feast for the senses but a significant boost to Phuket’s economy, expected to circulate over 400 million baht during the celebration. As the festival enters its third spectacular year, it does so with renewed zest partly due to the raft of accolades Phuket recently bagged. As Adul Chuthong, the spirited deputy governor of Phuket, proudly recounted, the island was honored with the Creative City Award in the Cultural Asset category from the Creative Economy Agency (CEA), alongside the coveted Asia Pinnacle Award from…
As the sun kissed the charming streets of Hanoi, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra basked in the glow of a promising new chapter in Thailand-Vietnam relations. Her visit was a meaningful one, replete with ambitions, old camaraderies, and the spirit of a blossoming alliance. The picturesque Presidential Palace was not only a backdrop of history but also the setting for an epoch-making event: the 4th Thailand-Vietnam Joint Cabinet Retreat (JCR). It had been two decades since the very first JCR was initiated by her father, Thaksin Shinawatra, and as destiny would carve, she now stands to lead once again. The ethos of her visit was the mutual commitment to elevate economic synergies and bolster bilateral trade to a staggering $25 billion. These ambitious numbers reverberated with optimism as Prime Minister Shinawatra, alongside Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, looked toward an exhilarating future of joint cooperation. As the cameras flashed and…
In a turn of events that disrupted a typically uneventful day at the sprawling Amata City Chon Buri industrial estate, a factory building dramatically gave way, leaving behind a trail of tremors among the workers and local authorities on Friday morning. Amidst the cacophony of metal buckling under stress, echoes of concern rang through the air as the accident unfolded at this intricate hub of manufacturing activity in the Phan Thong district, a key locale in the vibrant Chon Buri province. It was just a regular workday, until at approximately 11 AM, calamity struck at a site known for producing electronic wonders, nestled in a segment known as Phase 10 of the industrial estate. The tranquility of the bustling tambon Phang Thong district was shattered with a sudden crash as parts of the building’s second-floor extensions crumbled into a heap of debris, creating a scene of chaos below. This unexpected…