Most people don’t need a booster shot for the latest Covid-19 strain, except for vulnerable groups and the unvaccinated, since symptoms are relatively mild and the vaccine must be purchased, according to virologist Yong Poovorawan. Dr. Yong, from the Centre of Excellence in Clinical Virology at Chulalongkorn University, explained that the virus’s severity has consistently decreased, much like other respiratory illnesses, largely due to high vaccination rates and herd immunity. Nearly 90% of the population has now been infected by the virus. The remaining group—primarily elderly individuals who spend most of their time at home—have managed to avoid infection since the pandemic’s onset. As Covid-19 has become endemic, seasonal flare-ups should be expected just like other respiratory diseases. In Thailand, these outbreaks tend to occur during the rainy season, while countries with long winters will see a surge in infections due to prolonged cold weather. “In Thailand, Covid-19 outbreaks are…
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Thaksin Shinawatra is greeted by a sea of enthusiastic supporters as he strides into the Pheu Thai Party headquarters on March 25. (Photo by Varuth Hirunyatheb) Thailand’s former prime minister, Thaksin Shinawatra, finds himself at the center of attention once more. Assuring the nation, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin confidently declared yesterday that Thaksin will not attempt another escape to dodge the lese majeste case looming over him. “I met with Paetongtarn Shinawatra, the Pheu Thai Party leader, this morning,” Prime Minister Srettha shared. “She assured me that her father is well.” He continued, “I trust he will stay. I believe he’s ready to confront [the lese majeste case]. Seventeen years of exile—it’s been a long haul. Today, he has stepped back into the justice system. This is just another obstacle for him to overcome.” “I cannot speak for him directly,” Mr. Srettha added, “but I doubt he plans on leaving.”…
Police surround Chaowalit Thongduang, aka Sia Paeng Nanod, at Nakhon Si Thammarat airport on Tuesday evening. (Photo supplied) NAKHON SI THAMMARAT: The fugitive with many faces, Chaowalit Thongduang, better known as Sia Paeng Nanod, ended his remarkable seven-month evasion of Thai justice with a rather dramatic arrival at Nakhon Si Thammarat airport. Stepping off an Indonesian plane on a Tuesday evening, this notorious figure was met by a wall of law enforcement officials. Yes, the chase is finally over, but the story is just getting started. Arriving promptly at 5.38 pm, Chaowalit’s entrance was nothing short of theatrical. Waiting for him were senior police officers including immigration officials, the commissioner of Provincial Police Region 8, and the local police commander. Such a VIP welcome, only this time, the red carpet led straight to the police station. Chaowalit faces a slew of charges ranging from the dramatic escape from custody to…
The Ministry of Finance has been given the green light to quicken its pace on plotting out an integrated entertainment complex project, which is expected to include a glittering addition: casinos. According to government spokesman Chai Wacharonke, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has handed Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat a metaphorical stopwatch to speed through the study. They’re not just scribbling on napkins, folks—they’re taking cues from a report the cabinet acknowledged on April 9, says Mr. Chai after the weekly cabinet hubbub. So, what’s in the cards? The Ministry is tasked with penning new legislation and regulations to keep these burgeoning entertainment empires in check, setting the stage for a future presentation to the cabinet. And if you’re curious about the size of the industry, brace yourself for some jaw-dropping numbers. The integrated entertainment complex sector hit a whopping $1.5 trillion in 2022, with growth projected to soar to $2.2…
Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin is set to attend an important cabinet meeting on Tuesday. According to a recent opinion survey by the National Statistical Office (NSO), the government, under his leadership, enjoys a significant support rate. Yet, Mr. Srettha acknowledges that there is more to be done to improve society, particularly in the sectors of education, combating drug issues, and reducing household debt. “Education remains the country’s top concern and we must not lose sight of education development. As for household debt, we’ll come up with measures to reduce that. It’s also a priority task,” Prime Minister Srettha emphasized, underscoring the government’s commitment to addressing these core issues. He further added that the government will continue its efforts to attract foreign investments, boost the economy, and generate more job opportunities. These strategic actions aim to create a sustainable and prosperous future for the nation. The NSO survey, which gathered opinions…
A lively scene at Ngam Wong Wan Soi 51 in Bangkok in November 2023. Amid the city’s hustle and bustle, one can’t miss the sight of a dedicated police officer diligently conducting a breath test on a driver at a checkpoint. (Photo: Nutthawat Wichieanbut) Beneath the glimmers of Bangkok’s city lights, a crucial movement is gaining momentum—an all-encompassing initiative to crack down harder on drunk drivers who endanger lives and cause road accidents. The torchbearer of this mission, the Don’t Drive Drunk Foundation (DDD), has recently taken a significant step by filing a petition to a House committee. This committee is deeply engrossed in amending the Alcohol Control Act, a move that could drastically amplify penalties for those guilty of driving under the influence. Committee Chairman Wisarn Techatheerawat eloquently detailed the foundation’s demands on a lively Tuesday afternoon. The foundation’s petition crystallizes a zero-tolerance stance towards irresponsible alcohol-related practices. It…
The bustling corridors of Government House echoed with anticipation as Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin poised himself for another crucial cabinet meeting on Tuesday. Though the government basks in the glow of high public support, the Prime Minister emphasized that there’s still more heavy lifting to do—particularly in the realms of education, drug eradication, and alleviating household debt. During his reaction to a recent opinion survey conducted by the National Statistical Office (NSO), which revealed soaring levels of public satisfaction, Mr. Srettha advocated for heightened efforts to tackle these pressing issues. “Education remains the country’s top concern, and we must not lose sight of education development. As for household debt, we’ll come up with measures to reduce that. It’s also a priority task,” he declared with resolute determination. Beyond these key areas, Mr. Srettha highlighted the government’s ongoing plans to attract foreign investment, stimulate the economy, and create more job opportunities.…
Two leading professional services firms, Mazars, an international partnership operating in over 100 countries and territories, and FORVIS, a top-ranked firm in the United States, today mark the official launch of their groundbreaking global network, Forvis Mazars. This new alliance, Forvis Mazars, stands as a top 10 global network and is the largest new entrant in the global rankings in decades. Uniquely comprising just two firms, Forvis Mazars boasts the agility, capacity, and extensive reach to support clients no matter where they are in the world. This development injects fresh competition into the market, serving the public interest with a renewed vigor and choice. Key leadership positions revealed: The network consists of two primary members: Forvis Mazars, LLP in the United States, and Forvis Mazars Group SC, an internationally integrated partnership operating across over 100 countries and territories. Governance will be managed by a Global Network Board, responsible for ensuring…
Meet Vachirawit Chivaaree, better known to the world as “Bright”. This charismatic Thai actor, singer, and entrepreneur has catapulted to global fame, becoming the first Thai male star to grace the Met Gala in May 2024. Instagram glistened with his images as he struck a pose in a custom-designed pleated Burberry jacket with a netted gold inner layer, paired impeccably with tailored silk trousers. His ensemble was a masterstroke, blending modern edge with timeless sophistication. Early Life: The Melodies of Beginnings Bright’s story begins on 27 December 1997 in Nakhon Pathom, Thailand. Raised in a family immersed in music, his childhood was painted with the melodies of various instruments. By the time he was in school, his passion for performance was evident as he embraced numerous acting roles in TV series and shows. Bright’s journey in the limelight kicked off as a host on the Thai reality TV show Strawberry…
This boxer is undeniably one of the most iconic figures in Muay Thai. Let’s dive into some key info: Name: Sombat Banchamek Nickname: Buakaw or “The White Lotus” Born: May 8th, 1982 Nationality: Thai Known for: Muay Thai Instagram: @buakaw1 YouTube: @buakawboxing Buakaw’s Role in the Olympic Games Buakaw Banchamek is a name synonymous with Muay Thai, boasting over 243 career wins, 74 of which via knockouts. A dynamo in the ring, Buakaw has become an emblem of Thai boxing brilliance, pushing the sport’s prominence to new heights. Through his tireless efforts to promote Muay Thai, Buakaw has carved a name not just as a fighter but as an ambassador of the sport. Whether he’s hosting demonstrations, participating in worldwide events, or training the next generation at his Buakaw Village Gym in Chiang Mai, his influence is far-reaching and inspirational. Now, Buakaw is set to take Muay Thai to even…