The political landscape sizzled with sharp critiques yesterday as opposition MP Sia Jampathong took the floor during the final day of a joint parliament session. Jampathong pulled no punches, lambasting the ruling Pheu Thai Party for its unfulfilled promises, particularly the much-touted 600-baht minimum wage. He accused the government of neglecting its labour initiatives, which he claims were a cornerstone of their election campaign. “Labour wasn’t even in the top 10 most urgent policies discussed by this government,” bemoaned Jampathong, a stalwart of the People’s Party (PP). This omission was perplexing, given the Pheu Thai Party’s grand pre-election declarations. Their promises included not only a 600-baht minimum wage but also a minimum salary of 25,000 baht for fresh graduates and enhanced labour rights protections. Jampathong didn’t mince words: “Were these promises merely bait to win votes?” he questioned aloud, his voice tinged with both frustration and suspicion. “Apart from the…
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Yesterday, a significant law enforcement action led to the arrest of thirty individuals, including nine children, for illegal border crossing and substantial environmental damage within the pristine Srinagarindra Dam National Park in Kanchanaburi. This coordinated effort was spearheaded by Weera Khunchairuk, the deputy director-general of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife, and Plant Conservation, alongside military personnel and local police officers. The crackdown followed a tip-off received on Thursday about a group of stateless individuals encroaching upon protected forest areas in the renowned park, inciting fear among the residents of the Ban Ong Lu community in the Na Suan subdistrict of Kanchanaburi’s Sri Sawat district. Mr. Weera elaborated that the encroachers had reportedly set up camps within the national park, equipped themselves with firearms, and exhibited intimidating behavior. Alarmingly, they seemed poised to bring additional members into the park, further escalating the already tense situation. The operation culminated in the…
Phra Ajarn Sanprach Panyakamo, the revered abbot of Wat Pa Noen Sa-Ard in Nakhon Ratchasima, is no stranger to bringing peace to those at the end of their life journey. Recently, he sat with a blind woman in her final stage of life. She expressed heartfelt gratitude to him for guiding her towards a peaceful transition from this world. Nestled in the Chok Chai district of Nakhon Ratchasima, Wat Pa Noen Sa-Ard has earned a reputation as a sanctuary for terminally ill patients who do not require aggressive medical interventions. Here, the monks offer more than just spiritual solace; they provide palliative care, helping patients find tranquility and comfort in their last days. Through the compassionate teachings of Buddhism, they ensure these individuals can spend their final moments in peace. This noble practice aligns seamlessly with the World Health Organization’s (WHO) goal to enhance the quality of life for patients,…
Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai has made a significant move by naming Gen Trisak Indararusmi, an ex-classmate of former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra, as his secretary. Gen Trisak, a seasoned expert formerly with the Royal Thai Armed Forces (RTAF) and an alumnus of Class 10 from the prestigious armed forces preparatory school, has been strategically placed ahead of Phumtham’s formal initiation at the ministry on Monday. The buzz around the Defence Ministry is growing, with speculations that Phumtham might also appoint Gen Worawit Chinanawin as his adviser. The ministry is preparing an elaborate welcoming ceremony for the new defence minister, complete with tributes to sacred objects and an impressive inspection of an honour guard. Following these ceremonial duties, military leaders are set to brief the new minister, laying the groundwork for upcoming policy guidelines. Phumtham, who juggles dual roles as a deputy prime minister, addressed the media on Friday with a…
Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan believes the ongoing China-US trade war will present a golden opportunity for Thailand. (Photo: Varuth Hirunyatheb) In the midst of a global trade tug-of-war, Thailand stands poised to emerge as a significant benefactor. Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan, in a bold statement on Friday, indicated that the simmering trade tensions between China and the United States could bolster Thailand’s economic landscape. This development, he emphasized, would benefit the new administration profoundly, given that both China and the US are close allies of Thailand. Delving into specifics, Mr. Pichai highlighted a substantial investment of 150 billion baht in Thailand’s burgeoning printed circuit board (PCB) industry over the past year. Looking ahead, he forecasted this figure to soar into the realm of hundreds of billions or potentially even a trillion baht, an investment influx that would undoubtedly draw numerous PCB enterprises to Thai shores. Reflecting on Thailand’s attractiveness to…
Baby hippo Moo Deng is fast going global, with fans finding all kinds of ways to worship her online. (Photo: Khao Kheow Open Zoo Facebook) Moo Deng, the adorable two-month-old pygmy hippopotamus at Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Chon Buri, is quickly transforming from a zoo resident into an international sensation. A magnetic charm seems to emanate from this tiny marvel, drawing a growing fan base from every corner of the globe. Recently, Time magazine published a glowing tribute to Moo Deng, acknowledging her ability to captivate millions of hearts worldwide. The headline, “Meet Viral Baby Hippo Moo Deng: She’s an Icon,” says it all. The feature, peppered with enthusiastic tweets and viral TikTok videos, richly described how Moo Deng’s playful antics — from splashing gleefully during bath time to being adorably carried by zookeepers — have become a treasure trove of joy on the internet. The hype doesn’t stop…
Under the vibrant canopy of Koh Phangan’s tropical allure, a rather unexpected event unfolded on Thursday that would soon become the gossip of this serene resort island in Surat Thani. Evgenii Melnikov and Anatolii Fedorenko, both hailing from Russia, found themselves in quite a predicament that would lead many to shake their heads in both amusement and disbelief. It all started at Café 13, a quaint little spot where the aroma of fresh coffee mingles with the salty sea breeze. Here, amid the clinking of cutlery and the chatter of tourists, two electricians were caught red-handed engaging in an activity as shocking as the voltage they worked with: practicing their craft without official permission. The authorities, in what seemed like a scene out of a movie, swooped in and seized the tools of their trade. Imagine the bemusement of the onlookers as wire cutters, a roll of cable, an electric…
Immigration officers questioning a 62-year-old Australian man on Koh Phangan on Thursday revealed an unsettling narrative following his arrest on an international warrant related to multiple sexual assaults and rapes back in his homeland. (Photo: Surapong Chaolan) In the serene ambiance of Koh Phangan, a popular tourist destination in Surat Thani, the tranquility was shattered as police apprehended Helio Taiyang Richardson. The arrest, executed at a local resort, was predicated on an Interpol red notice urgently flagged for him. The allegations against Mr. Richardson are deeply disturbing, encompassing a staggering 15 cases of sexual abuse and rape documented in Australia since 2017. Diving deeper into the case, police investigations highlighted Richardson’s intricate maneuvering to prolong his stay in Thailand. The records show that he entered the country on June 16 under a tourist visa, which provided a fleeting escape. He cleverly managed to extend this for an additional 30 days,…
The Royal Thai Armed Forces Headquarters recently received a heartwarming donation that’s bound to bring a sigh of relief to flood-hit communities in Chiang Rai. As part of the ongoing ‘CP-CPF Food from the Heart, Fight the Floods’ campaign, Charoen Pokphand Foods Public Company Limited (CP Foods) stepped up in a big way by donating indispensable supplies including CP-branded drinking water and Royal Umbrella rice. And let’s not forget our furry companions; the donation also includes premium pet food brands JerHigh and Jinny, ensuring that no one gets left out in these trying times. Lieutenant General Teerapong Pattamasingh na Ayutthaya, speaking on behalf of the Royal Thai Armed Forces Headquarters, voiced sincere thanks for the abundant generosity. He pointed out that the military is fully geared up with both manpower and resources to tackle crisis situations head-on. “The generous support from CP Group and CP Foods will enhance our ability…
Meet Moo Deng, the rising sensation at Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Chon Buri! This adorable two-month-old pygmy hippopotamus has become an international phenomenon, capturing the hearts of fans around the world. Recently, her playful antics and heartwarming moments were highlighted by Time Magazine, which described her as “an icon,” “a legend,” and even “the moment.” Moo Deng isn’t just a local celebrity; her fame has crossed borders. International media powerhouses like the Guardian, BBC, and Straits Times, along with Japanese television channels Fuji Television and ANN News Network, have all shone their spotlight on this charming baby hippo. Fans, especially from Japan, have taken their adoration to creative new heights, baking Moo Deng-themed cakes and producing delightful artwork showcasing her endearing features. The Khao Kheow Open Zoo has also tapped into the Moo Deng mania by offering a line of merchandise featuring her adorable image. From fashionable shirts to…