The United States has unveiled an exciting new initiative aimed at strengthening educational connections with Thailand, marking a significant leap in academic diplomacy. This announcement was made by US Ambassador Robert Godec during a lively press briefing held at a reception celebrating two monumental milestones: 248 years of US independence and the 190th anniversary of US-Thailand relations. Ambassador Godec proudly announced the launch of the International Academic Partnership Program (IAPP)—a dynamic effort designed to enhance educational exchanges and foster closer ties between the two nations. Spearheaded by the US Embassy in collaboration with Thailand’s Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research, and Innovation, the program is being implemented by the Institute of International Education (IIE), renowned for its global academic initiatives. Through this innovative program, a total of 18 American and 29 Thai universities and colleges have been carefully selected to partake in the IAPP. These institutions will collaborate on a…
THAI.NEWS - Thailand Breaking News
It’s a pivotal time in Thai politics. The ruling Pheu Thai Party now stands at a crossroad, bearing the weight of promises it made to ensure transparency in parliament, enact significant reforms, and usher in a new era of political accountability. At the heart of this critical juncture is the Move Forward Party (MFP) and its chief adviser, Pita Limjaroenrat, who’s staunchly holding Pheu Thai to their commitments. At a meeting held on Wednesday, marking the first day of the new parliamentary session, Pita directed his remarks towards none other than Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, his cabinet, and other involved parties. The significance of the day wasn’t lost on anyone. This gathering was not just symbolic; it was a reminder of the memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed between MFP and Pheu Thai. This MoU outlined the agreed distribution of the House Speaker and Deputy House Speaker posts—a necessary step before…
The Office of the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) is raising red flags about the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration’s (BMA) ambitious 3.99-billion-baht electric rubbish truck leasing projects. In a bid to stave off potential corruption, NACC chairman Pol Gen Watcharapol Prasarnrajkit submitted a comprehensive letter to the Secretariat of the Cabinet on Monday, outlining necessary precautions to maintain integrity in these projects. This move by the NACC follows an influx of complaints demanding scrutiny over four BMA plans to lease a staggering fleet of 842 electric garbage trucks over a five-year period. These new electric trucks are intended to replace the aging diesel-powered fleet, whose leases are set to expire this year. With the projects collectively priced at 3.99 billion baht, funds for these ventures had been earmarked in the last fiscal year. The NACC’s letter presents a litany of concerns, suggesting that fiscal non-compliance and project modifications could inflate costs for…
On a remarkable day, Nov 6, 1978, His Royal Highness Crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn traded his striking scarlet military uniform for the simple yet profound saffron robe of a Buddhist monk. This enchanting ceremony, steeped in centuries-old traditions, took place at the Royal Temple of the Emerald Buddha. At that moment, he was henceforth known as “Vajiralonggarano Bhikku,” dedicating the next 15 days at Wat Bovornnives—where his father had also taken monkhood. The grand rites were observed by Their Majesties the King and Queen, the Royal Family, privy councillors, the prime minister along with his cabinet, Policy Council members, national assemblymen, military commanders, and countless other Thais tuning in through their television sets. Among the esteemed audience was the visiting Chinese Vice Premier, Teng Hsiao-ping, who respectfully performed a “wai” toward the newly ordained monk. Dressed in a classic black “Mao” suit, Mr. Teng received an illustrious round of applause…
While wandering through a lively trade fair in Bangkok, you might notice a curious mix of people: some sporting face masks and others who seemingly prefer to go without. (Photo: Somchai Poomlard) This scene paints a picture of the current Covid-19 landscape as detailed by the Department of Disease Control (DDC) in their latest report this Wednesday. According to Dr. Thongchai Keeratihattayakorn, the DDC’s director-general, Covid-19 is predominantly affecting vulnerable groups like the elderly and individuals with pre-existing medical conditions. Since the beginning of the year, a staggering 31,205 individuals have been hospitalized due to Covid-19, with 172 of these cases resulting in death. The numbers speak volumes about the persistent threat of the virus. From June 23-29 alone, there were 3,256 new inpatients, breaking down to an average of 465 hospitalizations each day. Additionally, during this period, 709 patients suffered from pneumonia, with 336 requiring breathing assistance. Tragically, there…
On June 18, a sea of supporters of the Move Forward Party (MFP) rallied in front of the Constitutional Court, united in their stand against the looming threat of the party’s disbandment. A woman boldly held a placard that read, “Don’t hurt the feelings of 14.5 million people who voted for Move Forward.” Beside her, another passionate supporter echoed the sentiment with a sign that proclaimed, “Move Forward enters the election through the democratic system. Respect people’s votes. Opposing the dissolution of Move Forward.” The palpable energy of the crowd resonated with the cries of democracy and justice. (Photo: Pattarapong Chatpattarasill) Mark your calendars for July 17, a date charged with significance for Thai politics. This is when the Constitutional Court will reconvene to deliberate the fate of the Move Forward Party (MFP) in the highly anticipated dissolution case. The court had previously met on Wednesday to evaluate a petition…
In a striking turn of events, Khlong Chong Nonsi canal may just become Bangkok’s newest green sanctuary without losing its urban charm. Trees lining this historic canal are being preserved and cared for like cherished relics, despite widespread social media hysteria over their potential destruction. The city’s Public Works Department, collaborating with landscape experts, has set the tone for a project that aims to seamlessly blend nature and modern infrastructure. From Surawong Junction to Rama 3 Road, the beautification project is a labor of love and respect for nature. The primary goal? To retain as much flora as possible, ensuring the least disruption to the existing greenery. According to the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration’s spokesperson, Aekvarunyoo Ampala, the revitalization project is a meticulous endeavor that strives to balance urban development with ecological sensitivity. Before the spades hit the ground, an extensive evaluation of the 284 trees along the 1.6 kilometers stretch…
Imagine standing before a wonderscape of nature’s most uncanny masterpieces—this is what awaits you at the Phu Phrabat Historical Park in Udon Thani, Thailand. One of the park’s most enigmatic formations is Hor Nang Usa, part of a series of incredible rock structures that have been shaped by both time and the belief systems of ancient civilizations. These epic boulders and natural monuments could soon be recognized globally, as the Office of Natural Resources and Environmental Policy and Planning (ONEP) anticipates that Phu Phrabat will be declared a UNESCO world heritage site at a meeting in India later this month. If the application is approved, it will mark the second consecutive year that Thailand has celebrated the elevation of a site to world heritage status. Just last year, the Ancient Town of Si Thep and its Dvaravati-era monuments in Phetchabun were honored, bringing Thailand pride and international attention. The official…
The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) made a big announcement that has train enthusiasts and travelers buzzing with anticipation. Mark your calendars for July 19, because that’s when the international train service connecting the bustling city of Bangkok with the serene capital of Laos, Vientiane, is set to officially launch. (Photo: @pr.railway Facebook) This new railway journey is an exciting extension of the existing Bangkok-Nong Khai route. The inaugural trip will kick off from the Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal Station, also known as Bangkok Central, at precisely 9.25 PM on July 19. After a night under the stars and through the landscapes, passengers will roll into Vientiane’s Khamsavath station at 9.05 AM on July 20. Talk about an overnight adventure! Once you’ve stepped off the train in Vientiane, the adventure is far from over. Public transport options, including vans and taxis, are readily available to whisk you off to…
Omega-3 fish oil capsules and a whole array of similar health-boosting products have become staples for consumers keen on boosting their overall well-being. (Photo: Jernej Furman via Wikimedia Commons) The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has recently provided clear guidelines regarding the conditions under which producers of so-called functional food products can make basic health claims on their packaging without necessitating prior approval from the regulator. This move aims to enhance the prospects for the thriving food supplements and related products sector, which is estimated to be a 100-billion-baht-a-year industry, according to Lertchai Lertvut, the deputy secretary-general of the FDA. Presenting accurate and factual information about the nutritional and health benefits of products empowers consumers to make well-informed choices. The FDA permits only those health claims that are substantiated, credible, and validated, underscoring Mr. Lertchai. The messaging on a product’s package must comply with at least one of the three…