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Posts published in “Thailand”

PM’s Office Minister Chousak Sirinil Addresses Charter Amendment Controversy: Clarity in Ethics for Political Postholders

When it comes to the intricate world of politics, the call for “clear guidelines” has never echoed louder. On Monday, PM’s Office Minister Chousak Sirinil stepped into the spotlight to address the whirlwind of criticisms surrounding a Pheu Thai Party-sponsored charter amendment proposal. This proposal, which zeroes in on the ethical standards for political postholders, has stirred quite the debate. The proposal aims to amend various sections of the charter methodically, addressing six key issues. Among them is the crucial matter of ethics for cabinet ministers, who, as per Section 160 of the charter, must uphold evident honesty and avoid severe ethical breaches. The stirring in the political pot began after the Constitutional Court ousted Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin for an ethical violation linked to appointing former convict Pichit Chuenban as a cabinet minister. The backlash has been swift and merciless, with critics arguing that modifying the ethics standards for…

Chiang Rai Flood Crisis 2024: Landslides Block Key Roads and Disrupt Train Services

The flood situation in Chiang Rai has reached a critical point as some areas in the province continue to suffer from flash floods and landslides. These natural disasters have overwhelmed several villages and even blocked a main road linking Chiang Rai with Chiang Mai. On Monday, Atipach Chomdang, the director of the Hydrological Division of Chiang Rai, issued a stern warning about the excessive rainfall in Ban Pa Sang Pattana and Ban Rong in Wiang Pa Pao district. According to him, this area is at risk of sudden flash floods. Heavy rain on Sunday night caused the Lao River to overflow in the district, affecting approximately 30 households in the Pa Ngew, Ban Pong, and Wiang sub-districts. The situation got worse when landslides in tambon Mae Chedi Mai blocked traffic. Fortunately, local authorities quickly managed to clear the debris and reopen the area. The Wiang Pa Pao Police Station shared…

Narathiwat Attack: Insurgent Leader Manso Puteh Linked to Hala Bala Wildlife Sanctuary Arson and Weapon Theft

Deep in the south of Thailand, within the serene confines of the Hala Bala Wildlife Sanctuary in Narathiwat’s Waeng district, a night of chaos erupted as fire engulfed an office on Saturday. (Photo courtesy: Abdullah Benjakat) According to a security insider, this daring act, mingling arson with weapon theft, appears to be the handiwork of an insurgent group known to stir dissent across several districts in this southern border province. The plot thickens as the finger of suspicion points squarely at Manso Puteh, a notorious figure with a laundry list of charges against him. Puteh is no stranger to the authorities; his insurgent network thrives in the shadows of Sungai Padi, Waeng, and parts of Sungai Kolok districts. Post-attack, the brazen group is thought to have melted away into the forest, slipping across the border into a neighboring country, as suggested by an anonymous source. For those geographically inclined, Narathiwat…

Insurgent Leader Manso Puteh Blamed for Hala Bala Wildlife Sanctuary Attack and Weapon Heist

An otherwise tranquil evening in the Waeng district of Narathiwat turned into a nightmarish scene on Saturday, as flames devoured the office at the Hala Bala Wildlife Sanctuary. (Photo: Abdullah Benjakat) NARATHIWAT: The shocking conflagration and weapon heist at the Hala Bala Wildlife Sanctuary seems to be the nefarious handiwork of an insurgent group deeply entrenched in this southern border province. This alarming revelation, divulged by a well-placed security source, points the finger at the notorious insurgent leader, Manso Puteh, a man with a long and violent rap sheet. Manso Puteh’s shadowy network reportedly operates from fortified bases in the districts of Sungai Padi, Waeng, and parts of Sungai Kolok. The daring attack, launched by at least 20 armed insurgents, has sent shockwaves through the community. After their brazen assault, the infiltrators are believed to have melted away into the dense forests of a neighboring country, following their sinister protocol.…

iPhone 16 Fever: Thai Consumers Double Gadget Sales in Just One Month

In the throes of the exhilarating iPhone 16 launch, The 1 Insight has dropped a bombshell report on iPhone users in Thailand, showcasing an electrifying surge in gadget sales—doubling in just one month. From 2019 to 2024, the data unveils that a staggering 40% of Thai iPhone aficionados are steadfast in their allegiance to annual upgrades, driven by an insatiable thirst for innovation and remaining at the forefront of tech evolution. Let’s delve into the five consumer categories that’s rocket-fueling iPhone’s sales upswing: Social Media Savvy Teens (Gen Z, 18-24 years old): These youthful dynamo users are completely hooked on staying connected and creating dazzling content on social media. They typically reach for the iPhone 15 or 15 Plus with a comfortable 128GB storage, striking a sweet balance between affordability and capability. Their color of choice? Classy Black. The 0% installment plans make it a breeze for them to leap…

Paetongtarn Shinawatra Under Scrutiny: Election Probe into Executive Role Resignations Sparks Controversy

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra inspects an air force plane loaded with relief supplies destined for flood victims in Chiang Rai. The scene unfolded at the Wing 6 headquarters in Bangkok on a bustling Sunday. (Photo: Varuth Hirunyatheb) Political activist Ruangkrai Leekitwattana has reignited controversy by urging the Election Commission (EC) to probe whether Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra properly resigned from her numerous executive roles in her family’s sprawling business empire before she was elected. On Monday, Mr. Ruangkrai questioned if Ms. Paetongtarn adhered to the Department of Business Development’s formal procedures while stepping down from these executive positions. His contention revolves around the stringent protocols mandated by Section 187 of the constitution, which expressly forbids ministers from owning more than 5% share in any commercial enterprise or being employed by a private firm. Alleged anomalies in Ms. Paetongtarn’s resignation process could potentially breach this constitutional stipulation. Adding another layer of…

Thailand Considers Welfare Benefits for Freelancers: A New Era for Grab Drivers and Tour Guides

Picture this: a Grab delivery driver weaving his way through the bustling streets of Bangkok. It’s a scene that encapsulates the life of many freelancers striving to make a living in this vibrant city. But there’s a buzz of change in the air—exciting news for those navigating the freelance economy. The government is considering granting freelance workers the same welfare protections enjoyed by those registered with the Social Security Fund (SSF). There’s a catch, though—they must pay income taxes. According to Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong, discussions are underway with multiple agencies to establish a welfare system to safeguard freelance workers. This system would encompass a diverse range of professions, including tour guides, ride-hailing service drivers and riders, online content creators, and even sex workers. Under this new proposal, freelance workers could access medical and other welfare benefits similar to those who are officially registered with the Social Security…

Moxy Bangkok Ratchaprasong Launches Epic Hen and Bachelor Night Packages for 2024

Get ready to immerse yourself in the heart of Bangkok’s vibrant scene with Moxy Bangkok Ratchaprasong, the first and largest Moxy hotel in the Asia-Pacific region! This energetic haven proudly announces its wildly exciting Hen Night & Bachelor Night packages that promise epic nights filled with fabulous chaos and unforgettable memories. Whether you’re planning the ultimate girls’ night out or an all-boys bash, these offerings, available now until June 30, 2025, are designed to elevate your celebrations. It’s time to gather your squad, raise your glasses, and celebrate in true Moxy style! LIBRARY & PLUG-IN PARTY VIBES Price: THB 29,999 net Where: Library & Plug-In, 9th Floor For those who like to maintain a touch of elegance while partying hard, the Library & Plug-In Party Vibes package is your perfect ticket to fun and sophistication. Here’s what’s in store: Finger Food Frenzy & Bottomless Sips (4 hours): Snack like royalty…

MQDC Wins People’s Choice Award: Top Thai Property Brand of 2024

In a dazzling testament to their excellence, MQDC has clinched a coveted “People’s Choice Award,” earning recognition as one of the top 10 Thai property brands most cherished by consumers. This recognition comes straight from the hearts of homebuyers and was reviewed by an independent panel of seasoned industry experts. With an illustrious portfolio, MQDC is renowned for developing residential, mixed-use, and themed projects that stand as pinnacles of innovation and sustainability. Their sterling brands include The Forestias, Magnolias, Whizdom, The Aspen Tree, and Mulberry Grove. These projects exemplify their unwavering commitment to fostering both human and environmental welfare. PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards & Events introduced the People’s Choice Awards in Thailand in July 2024, offering a platform where homebuyers could voice their support for the projects that best met their expectations and needs. Between 26 July and 9 August, Thais were empowered to cast their votes online for their…

Chulalongkorn University Cancels Military Critique Seminar Amid Pressure: Puangthong Pawakapan’s Book Launch Moves to Jim Thompson Museum

A forum to introduce the Thai version of “Infiltrating Society: The Thai Military’s Internal Security Affairs” by Puangthong Pawakapan has been ordered off-campus by Chulalongkorn University following pressure from the armed forces. (Photo: Same Sky Books Facebook account) Chulalongkorn University has abruptly cancelled a seminar and book launch for “Infiltrating Society: The Thai Military’s Internal Security Affairs,” authored by one of its esteemed scholars, Puangthong Pawakapan. This unexpected decision came after mounting pressure from the armed forces, as disclosed by the university early this week. Puangthong, a prominent academic from the university’s Political Science Faculty, revealed on her Facebook page that the seminar, initially set for Friday at the university, would now take place at the renowned Jim Thompson Museum. She elaborated, “I was informed by the faculty dean last week that university executives will not allow any venue at Chula to launch the book entitled ‘Infiltrating Society: The Thai…