The Honourable Defence Minister of Thailand, Sutin Klungsang, recently announced his plans to entrust the Royal Thai Navy with the task of negotiating with China for a more favourable cost for a warship. This turn of events comes on the heels of the government’s preference for a frigate as opposed to a submarine. The naval delegation is expected to journey to China next week to involve in vital negotiations, before the pre-existing contract between both countries expires within a month. Whether China is amenable to this discussion is yet unascertainable. At dialogue preparatory meetings held with the navy on a recent Tuesday, Minister Sutin reassured the Thai community that the government will strive for a win-win negotiation, preventing any disadvantageous situation for Thailand. Mandarin speakers might describe it as: Yi Shi Zu Dao – Killing two birds with one stone. Sutin further clarified that the dialogue focuses on contract revision…
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Defence Minister Sutin Klungsang has recently disclosed his plans to embark on negotiations with China with the intention of reducing the pricing of a particular frigate, following the governmental decision to procure such a ship instead of a submarine. The navy will constitute the negotiating delegation, which is expected to land in China for discussions prior to the expiration of their agreement next month. The role of China in these discussions is, however, yet to be confirmed. Mr. Sutin, who had a meeting with the navy prior to the trip to prepare essential data for the discussions, made it clear that the government’s priority is to avoid disadvantaging the country and to ensure the best deal is struck. As he explained, the plan is not to amend the contract but to revise the initial agreement, making it a subject of discourse between the navy and the Chinese company. Last week,…
The ambiance of anticipative calm prevails as an immigration officer patrols the area before Sadao checkpoint in the charming Songkhla province of southern Thailand. The image, captured perfectly by astute lens of Assawin Pakkawan, echoes the significant changes that are about to take place in Thai’s immigration process. In an exciting turn of events, the Thai cabinet has recently given the green light to a pivotal proposal. This ratified endorsement involves a temporary three-month suspension, starting from the 1st of November, of the requirement for non-Thai tourists to fill out the typically obligatory Tor Mor 6 (TM 6) immigration forms at the bustling Sadao immigration checkpoint. This striking reform, as expounded by the deputy government spokesman, Kharom Polpornklang, is slated to commence as soon as the next month comes sweeping in. The principal aim of this groundbreaking development? To significantly simplify the journey for Malaysian visitors keen on exploring the…
Imagine a bustling room filled with advocates of a government’s digital wallet initiative, all brandishing placards declaring support for a 10,000-baht digital cash distribution scheme. The setting is none other than the headquarters of the Pheu Thai Party on October 17, with a narration by the acclaimed photographer, Somchai Poomlard. In this electric atmosphere, Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minster Phumtham Wechayachai shares his perspectives, dismissing the ripple effect of antagonistic views towards the digital currency program on the government’s stability. He optimistically construes the criticisms as constructive, viewing them as vital inputs that are strung along the pathway to the policy’s enhancement. Mr. Phumtham reveals that the digital wallet scheme has been a long-term project incubated within the Pheu Thai Party. He likens the process to thinking beyond the fringes – an innovative approach that widens the lens through which outsiders perceive their actions. His claim is substantiated by…
The dawn of a new era is on the horizon for the Social Security Office (SSO) in Thailand, as it gears up for the landmark election of Social Security Board members. The SSO has placed an impressive fund of 207 million baht in preparation for this momentous event, penciled in for December 24th, a date that is set to go down in history. This pivotal election signifies a fresh chapter in the annals of the Social Security Board, attested to by Security General Boonsong Thapchaiyuth. The Social Security Board, a crucial organ within the Social Security Act, plays the vital part of a bridge builder between the Thai government and the Social Security Fund (SSF), and primarily oversees the management of the fund for its members. This esteemed board comprises representatives from a variety of ministries including labour, finance, interior, and public health, alongside key individuals from the Budget Bureau,…
The recent ascendance of Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s government in Thailand has triggered a wave of emphatic debate and risen eyebrows. His leadership credentials and promises are being rigorously examined and weighed, seven weeks post his assumptions of the office. An impending issue of rampant concern is the matter of the repatriation of Thai citizens adversely impacted by the Middle East turmoil, interspersed with the unrelenting Israel-Hamas strife. In its campaign, the Thai government committed to an increase in the daily minimum wage to 400 baht this year, with a further increase to 600 baht anticipated within the next four years. However, the efficacy of such a move is questionable, given the appealingly higher wages visibly in the offering from the Thais’ host countries abroad. This discrepancy could likely extend the trend of Thailand depending substantially on the workforce from its neighboring geographical territories. Furthermore, the proposed 10,000-baht digital wallet…
In a fascinating tale that unfolded in Thailand, a 23-year-old man won hearts by defying societal norms and tying the knot with a 45-year-old woman. However, the significant age difference between the two sparked a storm of criticism and controversy among the Thai populace. Originating from Guangdong province, the woman became the hot topic of discussion owing to her age and unique appearance. The couple, unaware of the dust their match would stir, met at a local event. Despite the two-decade-wide age chasm, their relationship quickly blossomed, finally culminating in a beautiful traditional Chinese wedding. The groom triumphantly beamed at his chosen dame, his grin a solid testament to their love. His bride, rendered bashful under the weight of societal glances, resorted to the comforting shield of her fan. However, public opinion swerved towards controversy regarding the bride’s appearance. Her short cropped hair, lack of makeup, and attire stripped of…
Celebrated Thai folk musician, Tai Orathai, has been making waves on Korean social media platforms, sparking interest in this enchanting airport enchantress. Also known as the Grass Flowers Monarch in the music circuit, Tai is gearing up for a grand American concert tour this year under the name #TaiOrathaiUSATour2023. Tai’s hypnotic grace and her alluring smile have charmed Korean tourists at the airport. @emoticon95, a Twitter user, posted a captivating picture of the singer, stating, “She appears to be a Thai actress… she’s busy attending to her fans therefore unable to move around.” The tweet also took the opportunity to laud her magnificent beauty. As soon as it was posted, the picture went viral, stirring up an online maelstrom. In no time, it recorded more than nine million views and amassed over 9,000 retweets, sending Thai fans into a frenzy. Thai fans left no stone unturned in enlightening the Korean…
Within touching distance of the embattled Gaza Strip, a mere 7 kilometres away, lived, worked, and endured, a brave Thai man named Charnchai Chidkhoksung. Employed as a modest tomato harvester, he recently lived to recount heartstopping experiences in the war-torn region that left profound marks on his spirit and psyche. Charnchai, a stalwart 31-year-old, finally sought the comforting, familial confines of his home this past Sunday, three eventful months after the onset of violent exchanges, which he and his fellow workers bore witness to. It all began on October 7, when the seemingly incessant attacks by Hamas commenced. The life-threatening reality of the situation came crashing home during a regular day at the farm, when a hair-raising siren broke the tense silence. That was the unnerving signal for his employer to direct the crew to the comparative safety of a nearby bomb shelter. Inside, cocooned by reinforced walls, Charnchai spent…
Khao San Road, a vibrant hub of nightlife and gatherings, is bustling with activity. However, the pulse of the city is in danger of skipping a beat as discussions of extending bar closing hours from 2am to 4am are underway. This proposed change has ignited a heated debate, with authorities warning of the potential spike in social woes from gun violence, vehicular misfortunes to substance abuse, unless proper safeguards are in place. Playing a central role in this discourse is Vicharn Meenchainan, an advisor to the public health minister. With a tone of caution, Meenchainan suggests that the extension plan should be put on hold until essential protective measures are established. His concerns revolve around protecting the wellbeing of party-goers and keeping minors distanced from alcohol exposure, gambling, and drug-related dangers. Meenchainan emphasizes the need for a comprehensive security plan that addresses potential danger zones within these social hotspots. The…