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THAI.NEWS - Thailand Breaking News

TOA Paint Shakes Up DIY Market with Eco-Friendly ‘TOA Shield Expert’

TOA Paint (Thailand) Public Company Limited, also known simply as TOA, has shaken up the D.I.Y. market with the launch of ‘TOA Shield Expert.’ This cutting-edge, eco-friendly paint isn’t just any ordinary splash of color; it’s a 2-in-1 water-based emulsion that makes painting a breeze while promising a longevity of over 10 years. This product is a testament to TOA’s commitment to both home safety and environmental protection. ‘TOA Shield Expert’ has been given the thumbs up by some of the top property developers and can be found in modern trade outlets across the nation, pushing the move towards a more sustainable and low-carbon society. According to Mr. Jatuphat Tangkaravakoon, the Chief Executive Officer of TOA Paint (Thailand), ‘TOA Shield Expert’ reflects the construction industry’s future direction. “This paint, which is a combination of topcoat and primer, highlights the industry’s shift towards prioritizing health and safety, especially for the ageing…

Jungceylon Shopping Center in Phuket Launches Ambitious Green Retail Strategy Under CEO Prawit Janyasittikul

Jungceylon Shopping Center in Patong, Phuket, has rolled out an ambitious business plan designed to attract top-tier shoppers through innovative marketing strategies. By launching products, services, and activities that appeal to both local and international audiences, Jungceylon aims to set a new standard in retail. This plan is deeply rooted in Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) frameworks. Prawit Janyasittikul, the CEO of Jungceylon, highlighted that for over 18 years, this shopping center has been a cornerstone in Phuket’s retail landscape. Spreading across a massive 200,000 square meters and attracting 45,000 to 50,000 visitors daily, Jungceylon is steadfastly focused on sustainability. The retail giant has adopted Circular Economy principles to steer growth and align with ESG strategies. To meet its environmental objectives, Jungceylon is implementing the 4R principles: Reduce, Reuse, Repair, and Recycle. They are also moving towards an “Upcycle” approach to magnify environmental impact. Efforts to reduce plastic bag usage…

Thailand’s Silver Jewellery Exports Soar: Industry Shines Globally with $842.41 Million Boost in 2024

The Thai silver jewellery industry, celebrated globally for its breathtaking craftsmanship and unparalleled quality, has long been an esteemed pillar of the export sector. Renowned for its meticulous handmade production processes, which beautifully blend creativity with traditional local skills passed down through generations, Thailand stands proudly as a frontrunner in the international silver jewellery market. According to Mr. Phusit Ratanakul Sereroengrit, the Director-General of the Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP), Thailand’s silver jewellery industry continues to sparkle brilliantly on the global economic stage. From January to June 2024, Thai silver jewellery exports soared to an impressive $842.41 million, marking a staggering 19.51% increase compared to the same period last year. Major export destinations include the USA, Germany, England, and Australia. Despite rising competition from countries like China, Italy, and Turkey, Thailand holds significant advantages thanks to its meticulous craftsmanship, exceptional production standards, and versatile designs that align perfectly with…

Phumtham Wechayachai Prioritizes Collaboration as New Thai Defence Minister

Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai has stepped into his new role as the defence minister with a clear message: cooperation, not control. Emphasizing a collaborative approach, Phumtham asserts he will never attempt to impose the government’s executive power over the armed forces. Instead, he intends to work closely with them to ensure they serve the public effectively and in society’s best interests. Scheduled to officially assume his duties on Monday, after the government’s policy statement is delivered in parliament over the next two days, Phumtham is set to bring a fresh perspective to the Ministry of Defence. Phumtham’s ascension follows the departure of Sutin Klungsang, who was ousted during a recent cabinet reshuffle. Speaking on Tuesday, Phumtham shared his plans for his first official day: a meal meeting with the leaders of the armed forces. These gatherings are more than mere formalities; they are opportunities to build rapport and outline…

U-Tapao Rayong-Pattaya Airport Expansion: New Runway Construction and High-Speed Rail Developments

The U-Tapao Rayong-Pattaya International Airport is setting the stage for a major transformation with the construction of its second runway slated to kick off this year. According to Chula Sukmanop, the secretary-general of the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC), efforts are underway to secure funding from the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) for this ambitious venture. Italian-Thai Development (ITD) has been selected as the project’s contractor, says Mr. Chula. What’s more, this monumental undertaking is set to unfold in collaboration with the Royal Thai Navy (RTN), according to EEC’s deputy secretary-general, Tharit Issarayangyun. The new runway, stretching a whopping 3,505 metres, will be strategically situated 1,140 metres away from the current one. Designed to accommodate large aircraft and anticipated to manage at least 70 flights an hour, this addition is poised to significantly enhance the airport’s capacity. All in all, the project investment hovers around an impressive 15.2 billion baht, Mr.…

Bangkok to Implement Revolutionary 20-Baht Flat Fee for Electric Rail by 2025, Confirms Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit

The Transport Ministry is setting the wheels in motion for a groundbreaking initiative to lighten the financial load of Bangkok’s daily commuters. The visionary 20-baht flat fee for all electric rail services in Bangkok is set to be financed by an annual budget of 8 billion baht, confirmed Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit on Tuesday. A dedicated working group will be formed to accelerate the policy’s implementation, aiming to cap the maximum fare at just 20 baht by September 2025, significantly reducing the cost of living for the public. Since October 16 of last year, the ministry has already test-driven the scheme on two key lines: the Red Line commuter trains running between Bang Sue and Rangsit, as well as Bang Sue and Taling Chan, alongside the MRT Purple Line stretching from Tao Poon to Bang Yai. Both routes have seen an encouraging surge in passenger numbers, Minister Suriya pointed out.…

Thamanat Prompow Files Defamation Lawsuits Amid Controversy Over Alleged Interference in Agriculture Ministry

Thamanat Prompow, who recently resigned as agriculture minister to sidestep further legal entanglements for Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, made a notable appearance at Government House on August 27. (Photo: Chanat Katanyu) Former agriculture minister Thamanat Prompow is now embroiled in legal battles, suing three prominent public figures for defamation. The controversy stems from accusations that he meddled in his successor’s duties. Thamanat has enlisted Thanadon Suwannarit as his legal representative to file defamation claims against legal scholar Jade Donavanik, former Bangkok MP and social media host Boonyod Sukthinthai, and Thai Pakdee Party leader Warong Dechgitvigrom. Thanadon lodged the complaints with the Nang Loeng police in Bangkok on Tuesday. According to the lawyer, these three individuals made public comments suggesting Thamanat inappropriately interfered with Agriculture Minister Narumon Pinyosinwat’s responsibilities during her recent flood inspection tour in Chai Nat and Ayutthaya. Photographs surfaced showing Thamanat attending a meeting with officials who briefed…

Thailand Cracks Down on Illegal Online Gambling: Over 4,000 Line Accounts Targeted by Minister Prasert Jantararuangtong

In a dramatic clampdown on illegal online gambling, the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society has set its sights on over 4,000 official Line accounts suspected of promoting unlawful betting platforms. With 54 million users, Line is Thailand’s most popular chat app and has, unfortunately, become a haven for such unsavory activities. Authorities, aided by Line Thailand, have been vigilantly watching these activities from February 24 to August 9, culminating in this recent wave of enforcement. The primary goal? To cut off gamblers’ easy access to these illicit websites, thereby putting a significant dent in the operators’ reach. Minister Prasert Jantararuangtong emphasized the troubling ease with which gambling site creators tap into Line’s extensive user base. “The Line app provides an ideal tool for gambling website owners to reach their target groups,” he stated. This makes it all too simple for those looking to engage in or promote illegal gambling.…

Pol Gen Somyot Poompanmoung Faces Justice: Red Bull Heir Case Trial Begins

Former national police chief Pol Gen Somyot Poompanmoung and seven other defendants, indicted for assisting Red Bull heir Vorayuth “Boss” Yoovidhya in evading criminal charges following a notorious 2012 hit-and-run, made their entrance at the Criminal Court for Corruption and Misconduct Cases to face the music on Tuesday. This scene, captured by Nutthawat Wichieanbut, serves as a prelude to a highly anticipated trial that promises twists and turns worthy of a thriller novel. The court has set a compressed seven-month timeline for this trial, diverging from the usual year-long process. This decision underscores the colossal public interest swirling around the mishandling of the case. All eight defendants, including former deputy attorney-general Nate Naksuk, paraded in to declare their not guilty pleas, battling charges ranging from dereliction of duty to altering the recorded speed of the Ferrari involved in the accident. The latter shockingly led to the dismissal of reckless driving…

Chadchart Sittipunt Inaugurates 50th Bangkok Food Bank Center: A Milestone in Fighting Food Insecurity

On Monday, people could be seen browsing a food bank in Bangkok’s Saphan Sung district, thanks to an initiative that has captured hearts and attention. (Photo: Varuth Hirunyatheb) The Bangkok Food Bank marked a significant milestone by launching its 50th center in Saphan Sung district. Since its inception, the initiative has served over two million meals to those grappling with hardship. The city’s governor, Chadchart Sittipunt, graced the opening ceremony, proudly announcing the project’s success in establishing a food bank in every district of Bangkok. As reported by the Bangkok Food Bank website, this remarkable initiative gathers surplus food and hands it out free of charge. It operates much like a minimart, allowing recipients to pick out the items they need, rather than receiving pre-packaged food. Governor Chadchart revealed that the project has already delivered over two million meals—equating to approximately 500,000 kilograms of food—to the vulnerable individuals registered in…