In the bustling academic realm of Thammasat University, a resonant declaration echoed through the hallowed halls as scholars passionately called for a seismic shift in how Thailand manages its swiftly greying population. The clarion call—a plea for the government to bolster training regimes for community-based managers—emerged during a spirited panel discussion at the unveiling of the “TU Care & Ageing Society Programme”. This ambitious endeavor seeks to firmly plant Thammasat University at the forefront of tackling the intricate issues posed by Thailand’s ageing demographic. Amidst this lively discourse, Assistant Professor Nattapat Sarobol, an esteemed expert in elderly welfare from the University’s Faculty of Social Administration, painted a sobering picture of Thailand’s rapidly and, dare we say, insufficiently maturing society. With a palpable sense of urgency, she illuminated the plight of many Thai elders, who endure overwhelming isolation and encounter care that falls distressingly short, reminiscent of Japan’s haunting kodokushi phenomenon,…
Posts published in “Thailand”
In the enchanting tapestry of global travel, Thailand steadfastly holds its allure, ranking among the top five destinations for Chinese tourists as per the latest insights shared by the government. In a colorful medley of travel preferences, Thailand finds its place right after Hong Kong, Japan, Macao, and South Korea during sumptuous long holidays, according to deputy government spokeswoman, Sasikarn Watthanachan. Envision a land where every corner tells tales of its rich culture, where the warmth of hospitality greets you like a long-lost friend. That’s Thailand—an irresistible canvas painted with vibrant tourist attractions, cultural depth, and an unparalleled friendliness that draws travelers like bees to blossom. But what is it that secures Thailand’s spot in this coveted quintet of travel heaven? As Ms. Sasikarn eloquently explained, the secret recipe lies not only in the spectacular offerings but also in the seamless convenience of modern amenities. Imagine enjoying the spicy delights…
As the vibrant hues of love and acceptance swirled brightly along the streets of Bangkok, the Love Pride Parade 2024 concluded with an unparalleled spectacle on June 30th. This grand event, illustriously celebrated as Asia’s longest parade, embarked on a jubilant 6-kilometer journey stretching from the bustling Suphachalasai National Stadium to the serene beauty of Benchasiri Park. A delightful medley of celebrities, energetic members of the LGBTQ+ community, and enthusiastic allies from diverse walks of life gathered to celebrate love in all its forms and expressions. Varuth Hirunyatheb, with distinct fervor, brought this spirited gathering to life, transforming the streets into an explosion of rainbow colors and joyful cheers. Now, as the echoes of 2024’s celebrations slowly fade, thoughts eagerly turn to the Bangkok Pride Festival 2025. Under the resounding theme of “The Celebration: Right to Love,” preparations are well underway for a month-long celebration, beginning May 30th and culminating…
The atmosphere in vibrant northeastern Thailand took a critical turn recently, with the Election Commission (EC) launching an investigation into alarming claims of vote-buying in Kalasin. This controversy adds a stirring twist to the municipal elections that unfolded across the nation last Sunday. EC Deputy Secretary-General, Pol Lt Col Rapheephong Jirapattanalak, has reportedly mobilized a team to rootedly delve into allegations that determined sums—up to a tempting 3,000 baht—were waved before voters, enticing them to cast ballots for a specific party. This bombshell report landed just as Thailand kickstarted its extensive local elections, dynamically operating at 34,818 polling stations spread abundantly across 2,463 municipalities, spanning every gleaming corner of the country, except for Bangkok. A staggering 29.9 million citizens stood primed and ready to exercise their fundamental democratic right to vote. The lively spirit of democracy was not confined merely to municipal elections. Several provinces simultaneously conducted by-elections for blood-pumping…
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, a stalwart presence at Government House, is gearing up for an eventful journey to Vietnam on May 15-16. These dates aren’t merely circled on the calendar for diplomatic niceties — there’s a robust agenda on the cards. With a vow to elevate the camaraderie between Thailand and Vietnam to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership — the nonpareil echelon of diplomatic ties Vietnam offers — the visit promises to be a pivotal chapter in their shared history. Central to this visit will be the eagerly anticipated 4th Thailand-Vietnam Joint Cabinet Retreat (JCR). Here, Prime Minister Paetongtarn and Vietnam’s own Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh will be sitting down for discussions that transcend pleasantries. Their ambitions are clear: fortify political trust, accelerate economic collaboration, and magnify regional security bonds. Adding grandeur to this diplomatic pageantry, a joint statement will be inked, crystallizing the alliance’s newfound status. This document will…
Last September, the grand old halls of parliament witnessed a fierce debate over the 2025 Budget Bill, with the atmosphere charged with both anticipation and trepidation. Fast forward to today, and it looks like the political landscape is far from settling down. In a surprising turn of events, the Bhumjaithai Party recently quashed rumors of any rebellion against the upcoming 2026 fiscal year budget bill, asserting to the world that their MPs will stand by the government’s proposed budget. Party spokeswoman, Nan Boontida Somchai, confidently stated on Sunday, “Bhumjaithai is not just a participant but an integral part of the government coalition. We’re commingled in the fabric of governance through key roles in various ministries that have their hands in crafting the budget bill. This bill is a pivotal mechanism for nationwide problem-solving and progression, and we don’t see why any of our MPs should turn their backs on it.”…
The political landscape of Thailand took quite a spotlight this past Sunday as the Bhumjaithai Party made waves by confirming that its Members of Parliament will not be voting against the upcoming budget bill for the fiscal year of 2026. This crucial piece of legislation, anticipated for cabinet and House of Representatives approval later this month, has been swirling amidst a tempest of rumors suggesting internal dissent. Nan Boontida Somchai, the articulate spokesperson for the Bhumjaithai Party, emphasized the importance of unity within the governing coalition. “As pivotal actors in the coalition government, steering various ministerial responsibilities, our members are fundamentally involved in shaping the budget bill,” Nan stated on Sunday, exuding confidence. “Their backing is indispensable to resolving national issues and fuelling the developmental engine of the country.” This proclamation came looking to quash burgeoning whispers that certain Bhumjaithai MPs might shun the budget bill, retaliating against Pheu Thai’s…
In a recent development that has captured public attention, the Department of Corrections (DoC) found itself at the center of controversy regarding reports suggesting it was keen to challenge a decision made by the Medical Council of Thailand (MCT). This decision relates to disciplinary measures taken against three doctors who were involved in the highly debated hospital stay of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. However, the DoC has categorically dismissed these claims, stating that the news took them by surprise, much like it did everyone else, as they learned about the MCT’s decision through the media grapevine. The DoC emphasized the importance of accurately conveying their position to prevent misunderstandings that could arise from unclear media reports. They made it crystal clear that they have not initiated any legal action, and their stance remains poised as they await the public health minister’s formal approval of the MCT’s decision. In reinforcing…
In the ever-dramatic world of international politics, former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra is no stranger to both controversy and curiosity. Recently, an unexpected development has added yet another chapter to his already multifaceted story. The Appeal Court has upheld the previous decision by the Criminal Court, denying Thaksin’s request to embark on a journey to the exotic sands of Qatar. This announcement came from former senator Somchai Swangkarn, a voice of familiarity in Thailand’s justice system, via a lively social media update on Facebook. For those of us following this riveting saga, the rejection of Thaksin’s appeal was accompanied by compelling reasons, or so the lower court claims. According to Mr. Somchai, no credible evidence supports a grand rendezvous between Thaksin and the ever-bold former US President, Donald Trump, on Qatari soil. Rather inconveniently, the proposed travel dates would have Thaksin tapping his shoes back on Thai ground uncomfortably…
In the bustling district of Chatuchak, Bangkok, a chapter closed quietly under the shadows of skyscrapers—where tragedy met resilience and human spirit. The site of the collapsed State Audit Office (SAO) building is now cleared of all the mementos of that sorrowful day, leaving not just ruins behind, but stories untold. As the sun climbed over the scaffolding-clad landscape, Suriyachai Rawiwan, the Director of the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration’s Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation, confirmed the absence of any more bodies among the cleared debris. The operation, which had become a beacon of persistence and hope, was poised to wrap up by Monday, just a day before the official handover of the land to SAO on Thursday. Even as hope dwindled and search operations neared completion, the site buzzed with activity. Crews meticulously combed through the debris, their task as much about honoring the lost as it was about tidying…