In a bold move towards safeguarding the integrity of the medical profession, the Medical Council of Thailand (MCT) has laid down the law, promising stringent repercussions for doctors whose mere names adorn clinic facades without their actual presence. This new set of regulations is the talk of the town— or rather the online world— as the issue recently garnered attention thanks to Senator Keskamol Pleansamai’s 126-million-baht asset saga, brought to light by the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC). The highlight of this unfolding drama? A significant 210,000 baht of the Senator’s annual income stemmed from lending her name to a clinic’s sign, a place where she never made an appearance. A modern-day ghost doctor! As revelations of this peculiar ‘name-loaning’ practice captivate the public, Dr. Methee Wongsirisuwan, Assistant Secretary at the MCT, steps forward with a stern announcement. As of February 9, the hammer will fall hard and fast on such…
Posts published in “Thailand”
The air we breathe is often taken for granted, but let’s face it, folks, it’s a crucial aspect of our everyday lives! Recently, the average PM2.5 levels across the metropolis came in at 26 micrograms per cubic meter (µg/m3). Now, you might be thinking, “Is that good news or bad?” Well, compared to the national standard of 37.5 µg/m3 over a three-hour average, specifically during the early morning hours from 5 AM to 7 AM, it seems we’re in the clear. That’s a win for those of us who value clean air without needing to time our morning jogs to dodge air pollution! PM2.5, as it is rather mysteriously named, are those teeny-tiny dust particles with a diameter of 2.5 micrometers or smaller. Their size might make them sound harmless, almost endearing, but don’t be fooled. These particles are stealthy contributors to chronic health issues ranging from lung to heart…
In a riveting series of events unfolding since the unexpected detainment of a Thai fishing vessel crew in Myanmar, Foreign Affairs Minister Maris Sangiampongsa has been valiantly defending the ministry’s unwavering commitment to securing their release. The drama began last November when the crew became ensnared in a tense confrontation with Myanmar patrol boats off the coast of Ranong province. Despite the return of 151 Thai nationals earlier this month, four brave souls remain in captivity, casting an emotional shadow over the diplomatic landscape. The matter has been a hot topic, particularly during recent Senate inquiries where Senator Thanakorn Phawornshinnachot demanded explanations about the progress of this intricate international saga. The fishermen, who unwillingly became key players in this maritime skirmish, have been waiting for liberation since that fateful day on November 30. In a move reminiscent of a political thriller, the Senator revealed an unsettling disparity between the official…
In the ever-evolving landscape of Thailand’s labor market, a chorus of expectation and uncertainty surrounds the proposed adjustment of the daily minimum wage. Set against the backdrop of bustling tourist hotspots and the quieter provinces, the prevailing question is whether all Thai workers will stand on equal footing by 2026—or perhaps later—as they eye the coveted 400-baht daily wage. Labor Permanent Secretary Boonsong Thapchaiyuth found himself in the spotlight yesterday at the Ministry of Labour’s bustling Prasong Rananant Conference Room. It was the first gathering of this year’s 22nd tripartite wage committee, and it promised to be a spirited discourse. Boonsong Thapchaiyuth, with an air of steely resolve, delved into the heart of the matters at hand: the status of the 400-baht wage in select provinces, an update from the wage committee chairperson, and a diligent review of measures designed to cushion the ripples of wage increases across the nation.…
In the bustling halls of bureaucracy, Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat stands at the forefront of a transformative initiative, one that promises to redefine Thailand’s skyline and economic prowess. With a keen eye on progress, Mr. Amornvivat unveiled a daring draft bill that seeks to establish integrated entertainment complexes, complete with illustrious casinos. This ambitious endeavor, hailing from the esteemed corridors of the Finance Ministry, has been meticulously presented to the Council of State with hopes to bestow the legislature’s nod in the current session. Last Thursday marked a significant milestone as Mr. Amornvivat sat down with the Council of State’s special committee, eagerly dissecting the intricacies of the proposed legislation. “It was a productive dialogue,” Mr. Amornvivat reflected, nodding to the committee’s valuable insights and diverse legal perspectives. The conversations forged during this meeting are pivotal—the kind that shape the foundation of industry-defining policies. The vision championed by Mr.…
It’s 2025, and in the bustling world of drone technology, revolutions are whirring their way into play. In a stellar push to enhance the airborne wonders we’ve come to admire and rely on, Thailand’s National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) is stepping up its game. As drones continue soaring into new realms, the NBTC has a vision — amend existing drone regulations to foster a more dynamic and thriving drone ecosystem. With a resolute nod of approval, the NBTC board is paving the way for change. Their mission is clear but multifaceted: ramp up drone usage across sectors, bolster research and development, and provide the regulatory scaffolding for drone production and distribution. In other words, they’re not just tuning regulations; they’re orchestrating a symphony for the entire drone ecosystem. This includes advancing anti-drone technology and crafting equipment to boost drone efficacy. According to the insightful AM Thanapant Raicharoen, who serves…
In the vibrant city of Phnom Penh, a hub of culture and history, the academic world is buzzing with fresh energy. Chulalongkorn University (CU) from Thailand is making waves by weaving stronger ties with Cambodia, setting the stage for a future that’s intertwined with the marvels of artificial intelligence (AI). Leading the charge, CU President, the esteemed Prof. Dr. Wilert Puriwat, recently engaged in a pivotal meeting with Cambodia’s Minister of Education, the honorable Hang Chuon Naron—a proud CU alumnus himself. Their rendezvous signifies more than just a diplomatic visit; it’s a journey towards an AI-enriched educational universe. The air of the meeting was filled with gratitude and ambition as Mr. Naron, along with ten other Cambodian CU alumni, extended heartfelt thanks to their alma mater. Their appreciation stems from CU’s unwavering support in elevating Cambodia’s educational landscape. Indeed, Mr. Naron embodies the spirit of CU’s teachings; he earned his…
In the ever-evolving world of medical practices, the Medical Council of Thailand (MCT) has taken a firm stance against a dubious trend that has left many eyebrows raised and tongues wagging. Imagine a scenario where renowned doctors appear to be at every corner clinic, their faces a beacon of credibility – yet the reality reveals they’ve never walked through those doors. This bizarre practice, where medical professionals lend their names and faces to clinics they have no actual involvement with, has come under heated scrutiny, much to the alarm of the MCT. Inspired by the indulgent tale of Senator Keskamol Pleansamai’s eye-popping 126-million-baht asset collection, which was brightly emblazoned with a meager 210,000 baht derived from such peculiar name-renting ventures, the nation sits in a mix of amusement and scandal. So, what’s the big deal, you ask? At its core, it’s not just a question of ethics but of legality.…
In the vibrant heart of Chatuchak district, Bangkok, where life buzzes with energy and vibrancy, lies Suan Rod Fai—also known fondly as Wachirabenjathat Park. It’s a verdant sanctuary where you’ll spot local residents in brightly colored sneakers and sweatbands, diligently hopping on and off various fitness apparatuses. The air is perpetually infused with a spirit of vitality. It was here, in this very atmosphere of well-being, that whispers of a rather dramatic procurement scandal began echoing last year amidst the cacophony of chirping birds and gym-goers’ banter. Now, let’s rewind to a saga of suspense and gripping anticipation that began in June last year. The scene was set when the illustrious governor of Bangkok, Chadchart Sittipunt, launched an intensive probe into what was rumored to be a sleazy patchwork of graft revolving around exercise equipment procurements for not one, but seven recreational and sports centers peppered across Bangkok’s sprawling expanse.…
In a heart-wrenching plea, the family of a young man from Loei, Thailand, who met a tragic end in Japan, is desperately seeking assistance from Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. The family is calling for her help to ensure the safe return of their loved one’s body to his homeland. This impassioned request was initiated by Nannaphat Tanming, the victim’s aunt, who reached out to the Loei Independent Media Club to amplify her family’s cries for justice and closure. The young man in question, 25-year-old Kornnaphat Promsung, was discovered lifeless behind a Thai restaurant in the bustling city of Hiroshima. This discovery came a distressing month after his family had reported him missing, a devastating blow marking the end of a nerve-wracking period of uncertainty and anguish for those who loved him. Kornnaphat had traveled to Hiroshima in 2022 as part of a promising training program with Chuzosho Co Ltd and…