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Posts published in “Thailand”

Udon Thani Activists Challenge Government Mining Plan: A Fight for Environmental Justice

In 2012, the tranquil streets of Udon Thani witnessed a fervent rally as activists voiced their dissent against potash exploration in the region. The scene was vibrant, charged with the passion and determination of those concerned about the fate of their beloved northeastern province. Fast forward to today, and a crescendo of community voices is preparing to take a giant legal leap against the cabinet. This uprising is fueled by a controversial master plan for mining activity, approved late last year, which is poised to threaten both their habitats and the environment. Chutamas Srihattapadungkit, the indefatigable coordinator of the Project for Public Policy on Mineral Resources (PPM), paints a grim picture. “Mining has become a formidable foe for many communities nestling near resource exploitation zones,” she explains. The government’s green light for the second edition of its mining master plan last November has sent shockwaves through these communities. Complaints are…

Operation Monkey Move: Lop Buri Captures Over 400 Macaques to Restore City Harmony

Picture a bustling city center in Lop Buri, teeming not just with people but with cheeky macaques swinging through the streets like they own the place. The Department of National Parks, Wildlife, and Plant Conservation (DNP) along with the local Lop Buri municipality decided it was time for these furry residents to pack their bags and relocate. On Wednesday, the second phase of their grand capture operation was rolled out, with an ambitious goal of netting 800-1,000 macaques over the next 10 days. Lop Buri city mayor, Jamroen Salacheep, shared how they laid out their cunning monkey traps near the Chayovanich spare parts shop and the Manora shopping center in the Muang district. Tuesday turned out to be quite the eventful day. In just about an hour, 128 macaques had a change of address: 74 were caught near the Manora mall, and another 54 near the Chayovanich shop. These surprised…

Udon Thani Communities Battle Government Over Potash and Rock Mining Plan

In the bustling province of Udon Thani, a wave of fervent activism arose back in 2012 as locals took to the streets to rally against potash exploration. The echoes of those protests are still reverberating today. (Bangkok Post file photo) Recently, a slew of communities has geared up to launch a legal offensive against the cabinet. The bone of contention? A master plan for mining activities greenlit late last year, which they argue threatens to wreak havoc on their living environments and ecosystems. Chutamas Srihattapadungkit, the astute coordinator of the Project for Public Policy on Mineral Resources (PPM), noted that this issue has become a flashpoint for many communities nestled near the mining fronts. Villagers have flooded civil groups with complaints, their voices tinged with anxiety about the dire repercussions on public health and the environment following the government’s nod to the second edition of the mining activity master plan…

Explore Bangkok’s Top 10 Scenic Public Parks: Your Ultimate Guide

Bangkok is home to some of the most picturesque public parks, each offering a unique experience for visitors and locals alike. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a fitness buff, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, these ten parks have something spectacular to offer. So grab your walking shoes and let’s explore! Seri Thai Park, Bueng Kum District Open every day from 5:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. Find Seri Thai Park on Google Maps Start your journey in the lush oasis of Seri Thai Park. This park is an excellent spot for a morning jog or an evening stroll. With its serene lakes and well-maintained pathways, you’ll find yourself lost in nature’s beauty while being surprisingly close to the city buzz. Nawamin Phirom Park, Bueng Kum District Open every day from 4:30 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. Find Nawamin Phirom Park on Google Maps Next, head over to Nawamin Phirom Park,…

Thailand’s Bold Step Towards Net Zero Cement: Highlights from the GCCA CEO Gathering 2024

The Thai Cement Manufacturers Association (TCMA) recently pulled off a spectacular feat by hosting the “GCCA CEO Gathering and Leader Conference 2024,” a groundbreaking summit for the cement industry in Thailand, in partnership with the Global Cement and Concrete Association (GCCA). This conference represents a pivotal moment, bringing together efforts from governments, international organizations, and leading cement and concrete producers worldwide. Thailand’s success shone through, not only by attracting global attention but also by securing an innovation and green fund worth CAD 8 million to propel the industry towards a Net Zero Future. Thailand’s Minister of Industry, H.E. Miss Pimphattra Wichaikul, graced the event with her presence, underscoring its global significance. The conference gathered over 200 CEOs and leaders from some of the world’s preeminent cement and concrete manufacturers in the bustling city of Bangkok. “The cement and concrete industry’s undeniable importance to both Thailand and the world cannot be…

Move Forward Party Faces Crucial Constitutional Court Ruling on Lese-Majeste Law Reforms

Move Forward leader Chaithawat Tulathon, flanked by his predecessor Pita Limjaroenrat, addressed a room buzzing with anticipation as they held a press conference. The subject? A crucial ruling by the Constitutional Court regarding the party’s effort to reform the controversial lese-majeste law. (Photo Credit: Nutthawat Wichieanbut) This past Wednesday, the Constitutional Court announced it had officially received the written defence from the Move Forward Party related to its dissolution case. Mark your calendars for June 12, though it’s still up in the air whether the court will deliver its ruling on that date. The defence statement arrived at the court courtesy of the opposition party on Tuesday, following the last of three 15-day grace periods granted by the court. An identical copy of the document has also been dispatched to the Election Commission (EC), the plaintiff driving the party’s dissolution case. The court advised that both the poll body and…

Chulalongkorn University Hosts Prestigious ASLI’s 21st Annual Conference on the Future of Law in Asia

Chulalongkorn University’s Faculty of Law, a founding member of the Asian Law Institute (ASLI), had the distinct pleasure of hosting ASLI’s 21st Annual Conference. Held on the 29th and 30th of May, the event revolved around the evocative theme, “The Future of Law, the Future of Asia.” With a turnout of over 260 scholarly minds representing more than 100 institutions, the conference witnessed the presentation of a staggering 176 papers. Preceding the conference, Chula’s Faculty of Law convened a meeting of the Board of Governors, featuring delegates from the illustrious “Sixteen” founding institutions, including the National University of Singapore, Peking University Law School, National Taiwan University, The University of Hong Kong, Universitas Indonesia, Seoul National University, University of Tokyo, and National Law University, Delhi. On the initial morning of the conference, the opening ceremony was honored by the presence of the President of Thailand’s Supreme Court, Chief Justice Anocha Chevitsophon,…

Brutal Pathum Thani Murder: Woman Found Under Udon Ratthaya Expressway, Suspect Detained

Early Wednesday morning, the grim scene beneath the Udon Ratthaya expressway in Pathum Thani shocked police and rescue workers. The lifeless body of a young woman, sprawled amidst a sea of rubbish, told a chilling tale. Her throat had been brutally slashed, and in a macabre twist, her hands were missing. (Photo supplied by Wassayos Ngamkham) The police quickly zeroed in on a male suspect who attempted to evade arrest in a desperate manner—by trying to take his own life. Authorities acted swiftly, detaining the suspect soon after the gruesome discovery of the woman’s body. The suspect was nabbed at a housing estate where he had ingested pills in a suicide attempt. Ambulances rushed him to Krung Siam St Carlos Hospital in Pathum Thani for immediate medical attention.  Pol Maj Gen Yutthana Jonkhun, the chief of Pathum Thani police, informed the public that an investigation was well underway. Security camera…

Bedgear Launches First Showroom in Sydney: Revolutionizing Sleep for Athletes and Fitness Enthusiasts

The management team at Bedgear’s showroom in Westfield Warringah Mall (left to right): Mr. Nvassaphol Ratanaromya, Corporate Strategy & Business Partnership Director of Lotus Bedding Group; Mr. Ross Stuart, President of Bedgear Asia-Pacific; Teepakorn Lojanagosin, Group Chief Executive Officer, Lotus Bedding Group; Mr. Jirasee Kasuwan, Chief Financial & Investment Officer of Lotus Bedding Group; Mr. Viboon Kamolkasemsilpm, Business Development Director of Lotus Bedding Group. Lotus Bedding Group has officially made a grand entrance into the Australian market by unveiling its very first showroom in Sydney under the renowned Bedgear brand. Hailing all the way from the United States, Bedgear is a leading name in mattresses and bedding, celebrated for its groundbreaking technology aimed at revolutionizing sleep quality. Bedgear stands out as the world’s premier mattress brand for athletes and fitness enthusiasts, being the top choice for NBA and NFL professionals who rely on the brand to optimize their physical recovery…

Shrewsbury International School’s Junior Film Festival: Celebrating Young Filmmakers with James Bond Theme

Shrewsbury International School Bangkok, Riverside, recently held its second annual Junior Film Festival, spotlighting the exceptional filmmaking talents of students from Years 4, 5, and 6. This event stands as a testament to Shrewsbury’s dedication to the “whole self” curriculum, intertwining conventional education with creative pursuits and skills that thrive beyond the classroom walls. The festival was graced by a panel of illustrious guest judges, esteemed figures hailing from various spheres of the film industry. These experts, including celebrated actors, directors, producers, writers, and cinematographers, had the unenviable task of scrutinizing and selecting the standout films. The competition featured seven distinct categories: Best of Year 4, Best of Year 5, Best of Year 6, Best Overall Film, Best Soundtrack, Best Voiceover, and Best Actor. Held in the grand Memorial Hall of the Riverside Campus, the event mirrored Hollywood glamour with a red carpet welcoming filmmakers, judges, and attendees, making everyone…