In a tale that echoes the exhilarating vibe of a blockbuster with a watery twist, a catastrophe was narrowly avoided today off the paradisiacal coast of Phuket. A catamaran, aptly named Emiray 888, found itself in a precarious situation as it capsized with 38 spirited tourists onboard. Imagine embarking on what promises to be an idyllic day out on the crystalline waters, only to find the sea seeping into your dreams — rather literally. The sun was at its zenith, casting a golden hue, when at 1 pm, January 13, the sailing trip took an unexpected turn of events. The ill-fated voyage had just departed from Chalong Pier in Mueang district, destined for the picturesque Racha Island, when disaster knocked. Water rushed in without invitation, causing the sleek vessel to sink in stages, setting off a chaotic yet swift ballet of survival tactics 1.6 nautical miles north of its dreamy…
Posts published in “Thailand”
In a bold move that has captured the attention of the nation, Thailand’s premier music company has made an enthralling appeal to the government, seeking a corporate tax reduction in the entertainment sector. This intriguing plea is aimed at giving the industry the much-needed boost and uplifting the country’s aspirations for soft power. Spearheading this initiative is none other than Phawit Chitrakorn, the charismatic CEO of GMM Music Plc. He considers this strategy as a pivotal step to unlock the full potential of an industry operating on razor-thin profit margins, averaging a mere 10%. Let’s dive into the numbers here for a bit. When we talk about the combined might of Thailand’s film, TV, and music industries, we’re staring at an impressive annual revenue of 50 billion baht. However, the profit perched on this financial mountain summit is a modest 5 billion baht. Currently, with a corporate income tax rate…
In a recent stir of political intrigue, Thailand’s Prime Minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, has found herself thrust into the limelight, grappling with accusations over a rather puzzling entry in her asset and liability declaration. The entry in question is a hefty four-billion-baht debt, leading some to raise eyebrows and suggest it might be a clever ruse to mask her true personal fortune. Not one to quietly let rumors fester, Prime Minister Paetongtarn has come forward to firmly dismiss these speculations. The saga kicked off when the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) decided to publicize Ms. Paetongtarn’s asset and liability declaration, a routine yet revealing practice among political figures. It’s meant to unravel and lay bare the financial tapestry of those in power upon assuming their roles. This transparency often acts as both a shield and a sword in the political arena, serving as a tool to deter mischief like illicit wealth concealment.…
In the heart of Southeast Asia, Thailand stands poised to make history. With a bold move that has the world watching, the nation is set to become the first in the region to legalize same-sex marriage. This monumental step has earned high praise from none other than the United Nations, which has lauded Thailand’s Equal Marriage Bill as a shining beacon of non-discrimination policies for other member states to consider. Michaela Friberg-Storey, the United Nations resident coordinator, couldn’t have been more enthusiastic while speaking at a vibrant event to launch the “Flag of Love Across Thailand” campaign. Held at the United Nations Conference Centre, this celebration marked an important moment in Thai history. According to Ms. Friberg-Storey, January 23rd will be a historic day as Thailand writes its name in the books as a pioneer in advancing equality by legalizing same-sex marriage. Her message resonated with hope and aspiration, as…
As the chilly embrace of winter continues to sweep across Thailand, the Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) predicts that these nippy temperatures will remain stubborn until the weekend. Far from being just an isolated spell, more blustery showers are forecasted to drench the southern regions, ensuring everyone gets their fair share of winter’s whims. The North, Northeast, Central Plains, and even the bustling capital of Bangkok are no strangers to the cool conditions that have taken hold. Though there’s a slight reprieve in the immediate offing, with the prevailing cold trough poised to weaken slightly today and tomorrow, winter’s icy grasp isn’t ready to let go just yet. Come Thursday, a fresh trough will swoop in, transforming the mild dip into a full-on cold plunge once more. Jackets, layers, and steaming mugs of hot tea will certainly remain the order of the day. Particularly hard-hit are the North and Northeast, where…
In a gripping turn of events, Ekkalak Phaenoi, thought to be the gunman responsible for the shocking murder of a former Cambodian opposition MP in the heart of Bangkok, finds himself under intense scrutiny as he is now lodged within the confines of the Bangkok Remand Prison. Ensuring his safety becomes a paramount concern, as he is watched over incessantly in a bid to prevent any untoward incident, day and night. At the age of 41, the erstwhile Thai Marine Ekkalak found his way into this unwelcome abode after a cautious transfer from Chana Songkhram Police Station, draped in a bulletproof vest and helmet, cloaked in stern silence, with the vigilant Arintaraj 26 Special Operations Unit at his side. The picture was almost cinematic, but the stakes were grimly real. Pol Maj Gen Atthaporn Wongsiripreeda, who commands the Metropolitan Police Division 1, underscored the gravity of the case by denying…
In a swirl of intrigue and inquiries, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra found herself on the defensive, batting away allegations that a four-billion-baht debt declaration was a clever sleight of hand to shield her personal wealth. Critics, ever eagle-eyed and tenacious, had their suspicions piqued when the number popped up as a family loan in the mandatory asset and liability disclosure. It’s no secret that the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) keeps a vigilant watch over the financial affairs of political figures. Earlier this month, they unveiled Ms. Paetongtarn’s detailed financial portfolio. As expected, such declarations are obligatory for those stepping into public office, ensuring transparency and serving the ravenous appetite of public scrutiny. Packed with enough zeroes to make mathematics enthusiasts dizzy, the combined assets of Ms. Paetongtarn and her spouse, Pitaka Suksawat, chalked up an impressive 13.99 billion baht. A colossal chunk of this treasure trove sat in Ms. Paetongtarn’s…
In a world that’s spinning faster than ever, the Thai government has decided to grab the bull by the horns and dive headfirst into the tumultuous waters of online gambling legalization. Setting the stage for a potential game-changer, Digital Economy and Society (DES) Minister, Prasert Jantararuangtong—who also wears the hat of deputy prime minister—is spearheading this daring endeavor. In a recent briefing, Mr. Prasert shared insights into the herculean task of revising existing legal frameworks to decriminalize the fast-paced, digital realm of online gaming. “The task at hand is monumental,” he mused, “Illegal online gambling has become as commonplace as street food in Bangkok. Our mission is to bring it into the legal fold.” While their ambition is clear, the labyrinthine path of legislative reform remains murky. The exact statutes needing modification are still under discussion. It’s no secret that the shadowy, unregulated world of online gambling serves as a…
The vibrant allure of Thailand’s rich cultural tapestry and stunning landscapes has always beckoned travelers from across the globe. However, recent events have cast a shadow over its reputation, particularly among our friends from China. The notorious incident involving Chinese actor Wang Xing, known affectionately as Xingxing, being lured into the lawless fringes of Myanmar has prompted heightened action from the Thai government to restore Chinese tourists’ waning confidence. Responding with urgency, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has charted a resolute course to rejuvenate the tourism industry and assure safety for all. On the frontline of this new initiative is an ambitious campaign orchestrated by the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, aimed at reestablishing Thailand as a preferred travel destination. Government spokesman Jirayu Huangsub conveyed the prime minister’s commitments, reinforcing stringent security measures as a priority. In the aftermath of Xingxing’s distressing ordeal, where he vanished shortly after his arrival at…
In recent political theater, the Pheu Thai party has set the stage with a proposed charter amendment bill, bringing hope to establish a new charter drafting assembly (CDA), aiming to draft a refreshed constitution. Wisut Chainarun, the seasoned maestro conducting this legislative symphony, is in the spotlight. As the chief government whip and senior Pheu Thai MP, he believes the Senate will play an encore that favors the amendment when it takes the floor. With a dexterous hand, Wisut assures the audience that the party’s script carefully sidesteps Chapters 1 and 2, alongside any facets concerning the esteemed monarchy. “No rewrites there,” he promises, as the CDA is expected to waltz around these delicate areas and focus their quills on less controversial lines. Now, as any engaging drama unfolds, not all actors on stage are seen singing from the same hymn sheet. Critics from coalition parties have their eyebrows raised,…