Posts published in “Thailand”

Welcome to the thrilling odyssey of Thailand’s ambitious leap onto the global economic stage—a tale that spins the story of a nation poised on the precipice of joining the venerable Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD)! A narrative where strategy intertwines with aspiration, as narrated by the illustrious Danucha Pichayanan, the sage secretary-general of Thailand’s National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC). Imagine the scene: a bustling Thai Cabinet, where members confer on a decision that may very well pivot the country into a new era. Here, we have Danucha championing the cause to secure the coveted seat at the OECD’s prestigious table. The first step in this grand dance of diplomacy? A mere letter of intent, yet brimming with the potent promise of Thailand’s earnest wishes to join the ranks of the world’s economic elite. Picture this letter, a beacon of Thailand’s ambition, landing amidst the OECD’s committees.…

Imagine the bustling streets of Thailand, humming with the energetic thrum of tourists and locals alike, each weaving their own story into the intricate tapestry of life there. Then, cut through that tapestry with a tale so riveting it’ll have you on the edge of your seat. This is the drama that unfolded when a German traveler found himself ensnared in a high-stakes game of cat and mouse with local authorities, a story that Deutsche Welle fearlessly reported on September 11, 2022. The plot twists are better than any Hollywood script. Picture this: our German protagonist, whose adventures had him locked up following a meticulously crafted sting operation. But he wasn’t to be held for long; a whooping 1 million baht reportedly greased the palms of the officers, securing him an unexpected freedom. Yet, was this a tale of corruption or misunderstanding? As this saga continued, the intrigue deepened. The…

Welcome to the vibrant fields of Kamphaeng Saen Campus at Kasetsart University, nestled within the charming province of Nakhon Pathom, where the essence of innovation blooms amidst the greenery. Monday, December 11th, marks the finale of a groundbreaking event that promises to sear its brilliance in the annals of agricultural science. What has unfolded here could very well be a pivotal moment in our battle against climate change, and the headliner of this fair is none other than the revolutionary Khao Hom Siam 2. Enter Meechai Siangliw, not merely a researcher but a visionary at the National Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (BIOTEC), who has been toiling with noble fervor to bestow upon us a grain capable of mighty feats. Khao Hom Siam 2, cultivated with painstaking care, is envisioned to not only enchant our senses with an aroma reminiscent of the famed Hom Mali—jasmine rice to the world—but…

Oh, what a bustling Friday it was for the tripartite committee on minimum wage! Picture this: a room abuzz with representatives from the colorful tapestry of Thailand’s workforce – the hard-working employers, the dedicated employees, and, of course, the esteemed members from the government sector. Each group brought their A-game, kindling the spirit of cooperation to weave the future of Thailand’s labor force. They weren’t just crunching numbers; they were tailoring the very fabric of the economy with a vision for prosperity! The radiant Labour Ministry permanent secretary Pairoj Chotikasathien, the brain behind the operation, masterfully chaired the meeting. The vibe? Pure anticipation, as they honed in on the grand reveal of the minimum wage makeover set to sweep across all 77 provinces. This wasn’t your average Friday fodder; this was history in the making! And the committee didn’t disappoint – they’ve crafted a proposal that’s ready to shoot up…

Welcome to a tale of celebration and camaraderie, where royal presence graces the humble grounds of a school nestled in the heart of Thailand—a province merely 150km from the hustle and bustle of Bangkok’s electrifying cityscape. It was here that a man of noble lineage, who once left his homeland to embark on a quest of knowledge and justice across the oceans, returned to his roots bearing the gift of education and the joy of playfulness. As the sun shone with the promise of enlightenment, the school’s confines buzzed with anticipation. A blend of dignitaries and bright-eyed students had gathered, unified in excitement, for they were to be hosts to none other than Vacharaesorn—a figure clothed not just in authority, but also in the virtue of generosity. Conversations paused and smiles broadened as he arrived, his presence weaving an enchanting silence before a symphony of applause broke out. The day…

Picture this: It was a day brimming with suspense and political drama as a venerable political party, steeped in history and tradition, convened to nominate its helmsman for the foreseeable future. The rendezvous was set for a Saturday, when members would gather to cast their vote and anoint their new leader, following a protracted period of leadership limbo. As the clock struck ten in the morning, the assembly hall buzzed with a palpable sense of expectation. With the requisite quorum of 250 members now present, the session commenced. The atmosphere was thick with anticipation and intrigue. One could hardly ignore the illustrious presence of the esteemed former prime minister, Chuan Leekpai – a political titan in his own right – taking the stage to endorse none other than Abhisit for the leadership mantle. With a wave of approval sweeping across the hall, Abhisit stood before his peers to unfurl his…

Imagine the vibrancy of colors, the rhythm of drumbeats, and a parade that ushers in a time of unparalleled joy – welcome to the 37th year of Patong’s illustrious annual carnival! As the sunset gave way to an electric evening, the shores of Patong Beach were alight with anticipation and radiant smiles for the opening ceremony, fittingly themed “Time of Happiness”. With the shimmering sea as the backdrop, Phuket’s deputy governor, the esteemed Amnuay Pinsuwan, alongside the charismatic Patong mayor, Chalermsak Maneesri, ignited the festivities that promised a feast for the senses. This extravaganza wasn’t just any celebration; it was an invitation. An invitation for revelers to partake in a grand parade that wound through the heart of the resort island’s bustling streets. But what is a parade without spectacle and splendor? The Jungceylon shopping centre, Central Patong shopping centre, the enchanting Phuket FantaSea, the thrilling Carnival Magic, the spectacular…

Welcome to a thrilling Saturday within the hallowed halls of political decision-making, where the venerable Democrat Party was abuzz with the energy of choosing their new captain to steer the ship through turbulent seas. As the morning sun pierced the Bangkok skyline, reaching high noon, an air of expectancy settled over the assembly, where four stalwarts stood, poised to claim the mantle of leadership. Amidst the fervent whispers and sharp suits, a familiar face was seen, that of former prime minister Abhisit Vejjajiva, whose name resonated with history and experience. Joining him in this political ballet were the interim maestro, Chalermchai Sri-on, the military’s own Lt-Colonel Thita Rangsitpol Manitkul, and the dynamic Watanya—spearheading the party’s innovative future. Imagine the scene as a chorus of hands lifted in support for Watanya, the political luminary, whose candidacy, championed by maverick Kayan Wipromchai, a former MP with a sharp eye for talent, earned…

Welcome to the intricate world of global ethics, where Thailand dances with diligence on the tightrope of integrity. As one of the proud signatories of the United Nations Convention Against Corruption (UNCAC), Thailand has been donning the mantle of an anti-graft crusader, vowing to cleanse both the public and private sectors of their corrupt elements. The kingdom, adorned with breathtaking landscapes and a cultural tapestry rich in history, strives diligently to cut through the murky waters of malfeasance. Hold your applause, however, as the journey is fraught with perception challenges. The Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) – the esteemed global barometer of venality – still casts a shadow of suspicion over Thailand’s ostensibly noble battles. Indeed, the 2022 CPI report released to the world stage in January 2023, ranked Thailand 101st out of 180 nations. A stark portrayal that even amidst arduous efforts, the aroma of corruption still lingers stubbornly in…

Welcome to the underbelly of the idyllic Chiang Rai, where a tale as old as time gets a dose of the digital age with a dash of hay – quite literally. Amid the peaceful twilight shimmering above Thailand’s northern crown, the city’s serenity was pierced by the wail of sirens on an otherwise tranquil Friday night. Unbeknownst to the innocent hay, its rustic charm was about to turn not-so-innocent when police intercepted a curious vehicle tiptoeing into Rob Wiang’s inner sanctum. The scene begins with the local constabulary, perched like hawks, swooping in as our not-so-lucky protagonists, Mr. Krit and Mr. Phab (aliases provided to thicken our plot), eased their truck silently through the shadows. Yet it wasn’t the horsepower that piqued the officers’ interest. No, it was the stowaways within: 2 million methamphetamine tablets, audaciously masquerading as 10 sack-backpackers on a hayride to infamy. You see, Krit, the Lampang…