Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin made a grand appearance at a press conference held at the iconic Government House in Bangkok, shedding light on the much-anticipated digital wallet scheme. This new initiative, aimed at catalyzing Thailand’s economic revival, encountered a rocky start on Thursday as millions flocked to register, causing the system to crash under immense pressure. By the stroke of noon, a staggering 10.5 million eager individuals had rushed to enroll via the Thang Rath app, a government-developed platform designed to streamline access to numerous services. However, countless others faced disappointment as they struggled to get through, with many griping about not receiving the necessary text message passcodes to finalize their registration. “It’s normal to encounter hiccups on the first day, but we are doing our utmost to resolve them,” reassured Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, the enthusiastic champion of this bold program. Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat had earlier predicted…
THAI.NEWS - Thailand Breaking News
South Korean national Choi Jin Tae, a high-profile figure on the country’s most-wanted list, found himself in handcuffs this past Wednesday in the bustling beach town of Pattaya, Chon Buri. The dramatic arrest unfolded on Pattaya Sai 3 Road in the Bang Lamung district, as local and international authorities collaborated to catch this elusive suspect. Choi Jin Tae, 40, is no ordinary criminal. He stands accused of orchestrating a sophisticated drug smuggling operation that spanned countries, involving the stealthy transport of illicit substances from Thailand to South Korea. His capture marks a significant breakthrough in a long-running investigation led by Chon Buri’s dedicated immigration police force. The relentless efforts paid off when Pol Lt Col Veerachai Klinlamut, an inspector at the Chon Buri immigration office, shared that Mr. Choi’s 286-day visa overstay was his Achilles heel. His extensive review of entry records corroborated the troubling overstay, setting the stage for…
Attention all pet enthusiasts: Taiwan Excellence is rolling out the red carpet for you and your beloved pets, with an exciting opportunity to showcase their irresistible charm and knack for happiness. You won’t want to miss out on prizes that total over 65,000 baht! Living the grand pet-parent life where furry friends are treated like family? Well, this contest is tailored just for you! Pets are integral to our daily bliss, and Taiwan Excellence is all about weaving innovation into everyday moments to enhance that joy. Introducing the “Share Your Pet Story” contest! This fabulous chance lets you flaunt your pet’s ultimate cuteness routine or their ingenious antics, transforming them into bona fide mini-celebrities. Think of the smiles and laughter their reels will evoke! Taiwan Excellence’s dedication to innovative living goes hand in hand with this contest, blending cutting-edge products into the lives of Thai pet owners who are eager…
Pol Maj Gen Choengron Rimpadee, with a determined look, affixed a vibrant “Welcome Pride by Immigration” sticker at an immigration booth bustling with activity at Suvarnabhumi Airport in Samut Prakan this past Thursday. The colorful campaign, vivid and bold, represents not just a sticker but a significant stride towards inclusivity. The campaign’s essence is to dispel any apprehensions among LGBTQIA2S+ travelers, who might find their airport experience daunting due to mismatches between their current appearances and their passport photos. “We understand that many of our LGBTQIA2S+ friends are anxious about immigration checks, especially if their present look has evolved from what their passport might still show,” explained Pol Maj Gen Choengron Rimpadee, the commanding force behind Immigration Division 2. It’s a valid concern; after all, passport photos are often outdated, governed by strict legal guidelines from different countries. Some individuals may have gone through surgeries, significantly altering their facial structures,…
BEM, entrusted by the government to manage the Orange Line MRT from Bang Khun Non to Min Buri (Suwinthawong), has officially inked a contract with CK. This strategic partnership zeros in on the civil engineering construction of the Orange Line’s western section, stretching from Bang Khun Non to Thailand Cultural Centre. The project is poised to kick off in August and aims to wrap up within six years. Meanwhile, the eastern section, linking Thailand Cultural Centre to Min Buri, is expected to be operational ahead of schedule in just three years and six months. Dr. Sombat Kitjalaksana, Managing Director of BEM, has highlighted the company’s readiness to forge ahead with the project, fueled by CK’s unparalleled expertise in large-scale infrastructure developments. CK has already set its team and equipment in motion to ensure the construction is not only timely but also of superior quality. Besides civil construction, BEM is in…
The recognition of Thailand as a leader in Southeast Asia’s wild tiger conservation efforts is a significant accolade, one that the government proudly embraces. This commendation stems from the country’s exemplary measures in safeguarding royal tigers (Panthera tigris), which have led to a remarkable surge in their population. As of the latest count, adult royal tigers in Thailand are estimated to number between 179 and 223. This figure represents a substantial increase of about 149 tigers from the previous year, 2022, according to government spokesman Chai Wacharonke. These statistics, drawn from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, were unveiled during the Sustainable Finance for Tiger Landscapes Conference held this Monday in Paro, Bhutan. The increase earned Thailand accolades as a vanguard in tiger conservation. The rise in royal tiger numbers has been praised as a benchmark for other nations, highlighting Thailand’s commitment to ecological preservation. “This increase not only…
In an unfolding drama that has gripped the industrial heartlands of Thailand, Thai Oil Public Company Ltd has firmly denied allegations of promising a hefty payout of 567 million baht to clear long-standing debts owed to subcontracted workers. The stirring issue revolves around the Unincorporated Joint Venture (UJV) consortium, a collective of heavyweights in the construction sector, hired for Thai Oil’s ambitious Clean Fuel Project (CFP). The consortium, a formidable alliance between Petrofac South East Asia Pte Ltd, Saipem Singapore Pte Ltd, and Samsung E&A (Thailand) Co Ltd, had roped in vast armies of labor from companies like One Turn Ten Co Ltd, EMCO LTD Co Ltd, and Thai Fong Engineering and Construction Co Ltd, subcontracted under Sinopec. Among these beleaguered workers are numerous Vietnamese nationals who have staged a valiant fight for their rightful wages. The unpaid dues story has cast a shadow over the bustling construction sites for…
The National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) is currently on a mission that resembles a detective novel, investigating officials who might have allowed blackchin tilapia, an intrusive fish species, to wade into the country’s waters. On Wednesday, NACC secretary-general Niwatchai Kasemmongkol shed some light on the matter, hinting at possible government involvement in the spread of these aquatic invaders, which pose a severe threat to local fish populations. Given the environmental havoc wreaked by these slippery characters, the NACC now has the power to dive into investigations without needing to wait for a formal complaint. If it’s found that state officials fell asleep at the wheel, allowing blackchin tilapia to roam free in our waterways, the NACC can spring into action right away. This burgeoning concern has multiple agencies casting their nets wide, with the NACC eagerly gathering any findings to get to the bottom of this finny fiasco. “If evidence of…
The Criminal Court has launched a manhunt for Aphidit Intulaksana, the CEO of an expansive enterprise and a relative of a former foreign minister, after he failed to appear in court to face serious allegations. Aphidit, accused of raping and molesting a young actress, was notably absent when he was expected to stand before the judge on Wednesday. A 36-year-old entrepreneur, Mr. Aphidit heads Aphi Enterprise, a multifaceted company involved in myriad ventures, notably within the entertainment sector. His connection to Upadit Pachariyangkun, the foreign minister from 1976 to 1980, adds a layer of intrigue to the unfolding drama. Its sheer scale of operations and the influential connections of its leader have cast a significant spotlight on this case. When Aphidit failed to show up for the court ruling on his alleged crimes, the judge took decisive action. Not only did the court order the forfeiture of his one-million-baht surety,…
People gathered in protest following the tragic assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Iran, with demonstrators expressing their outrage near the Israeli embassy in Amman, Jordan, on July 31, 2024. (Reuters photo) The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) has issued a stark warning to the approximately 2,000 Thai nationals working in northern Israel, alerting them to the looming threat of an attack from Hezbollah, Hezbollah being a staunch ally of the Palestinian militant group Hamas. The MFA spokesperson, Nikorndej Balankura, made this announcement on Wednesday in light of the escalating tensions between Israel and Hezbollah that could potentially lead to an all-out conflict. In a recent media briefing, Israeli troops disclosed details of their ambitious operation in Beirut, Lebanon, targeting those they claim are responsible for the harrowing attack on Majdal Sham City which left 12 children dead on July 27. This bold move has heightened the likelihood of…