Charoen Pokphand Foods Public Company Limited (CP Foods) is extending urgent support to frontline personnel and affected families following the building collapse in Bangkok’s Chatuchak district, triggered by the recent earthquake. As part of the “CP for Good Deeds” relief initiative by Charoen Pokphand Group, CP Foods has activated its “Foods from the Heart” program to provide warm meals, food supplies, and clean drinking water to aid ongoing rescue operations.
CP Foods has delivered essential food and beverages to support military officers, field medics, rescue volunteers, and emergency response teams working around the clock at the disaster site. Volunteer teams are also on the ground, distributing freshly prepared meals and ready-to-eat items—including boiled eggs, steamed eggs, and sausages—to rescue personnel and families awaiting news of their loved ones.
The support was officially handed over to Colonel Yuttana Sunthornmanee, Deputy Commander of the 11th Military Circle, by Kobboon Srichai, Head of Corporate Affairs & Investor Relations at CP Foods, and Adit Krisanawong, CPF’s Head of Public and Private Relations. To ensure continuous food aid, the company has also provided food products and cooking ingredients to community kitchens operated by the Petchkasem Foundation and Doing Good Organization, helping deliver meals directly to soldiers, police officers, volunteers, and local residents.
In a collaborative effort Kitisak Limamphai, Managing Director of International Pet Foods Co., Ltd., a CP Foods affiliate, contributed JerHigh pet food and treats to support the K9 units deployed by the Army Veterinary Department.
Furthermore, CP Foods volunteers have partnered with Mae Nak Phra Khanong Charity Kitchen and Poh Teck Tung Foundation, distributing warm meals at the disaster site and offering strength and encouragement to all personnel involved in the rescue mission.
CP Foods expresses deep gratitude to all rescue teams and volunteers for their unwavering dedication and courage. The company remains steadfast in its commitment to stand beside the Thai people during times of crisis.
Immigration police arrest a 25-year-old Hong Kong man, wanted for murdering a fellow Hong Kong citizen, in Pattaya, on March 27, 2025.
BANGKOK — A Hong Kong man, wanted for murdering a fellow Hong Kong citizen, has been arrested in Pattaya, Thailand, where he had been hiding with his Thai girlfriend. Thai immigration authorities have issued a strict warning to property owners, reminding them to report foreign guests staying at their premises to prevent Thailand from becoming a haven for criminals.
On April 1, Pol. Maj. Gen. Pantana Nuchanart, Deputy Commissioner of the Immigration Bureau, along with Mr. Ken Lam Wing Ho, Head of the Hong Kong Interpol Office; Mr. IU Wing Kan, Deputy Superintendent of the New Territories South Regional Crime Unit; and Mr. Billy Ho Yiu Chung, Chief Inspector of the Hong Kong Interpol Office, held a press conference at the Immigration Bureau headquarters in Bangkok to announce the arrest of a key suspect.
The arrested individual, Mr. Truong, 25, was allegedly involved in the murder of another Hong Kong man with an accomplice. The crime took place in the Fo Tan area of Shatin, Hong Kong, on March 16 at around 5:19 p.m. local time.
The victim, Mr. Tam, 52, was attacked by two men at the corner of Sui Wo Road and Lai Wo Lane and later died at Prince of Wales Hospital. Investigations revealed the motive to be a dispute over drug trafficking.
The crime scene in the Fo Tan area of Shatin, Hong Kong, on March 16, 2025, at around 5:19 p.m. local time.
Following the incident, Mr. Truong fled to Thailand by plane, arriving at 11:27 p.m. on the same day. The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China issued an arrest warrant for him on charges of joint murder and coordinated with Thai authorities through the Royal Thai Police to locate and detain him.
The Royal Thai Police then instructed the Immigration Bureau to revoke Mr. Truong’s permission to stay in Thailand and assigned the Transnational Crime Suppression Center to track and apprehend him.
Investigators later discovered that Mr. Truong was residing in a rented house in Pattaya with his Thai girlfriend. On March 27 at 11:00 a.m., officers went to the house, formally notified him of the order revoking his stay permit, and took him into custody. He was handed over to the Immigration Bureau’s Division 3 for deportation and legal proceedings in Hong Kong.
A chart showing the escape route of the suspect after committing the crime in Hong Kong and fleeing to hide in Thailand.
Head of the Hong Kong Interpol Ken Lam Wing Ho thanked the Thai police for their cooperation in the investigation and arrest and noted that the suspect would now be brought back to Hong Kong to face justice.
Pol. Maj. Gen. Pantana warned homeowners, landlords, hotel operators and similar businesses in Thailand that they are required by law to report all foreigners staying on their property to the Immigration Department. Failure to do so will result in a fine of 1,600 baht per non-registered person. If the offender is a hotel manager, the fine increases to no less than 8,000 baht per unreported guest.
The Immigration Department emphasized that it will continue to monitor and enforce all forms of illegal activities, keeping an eye on both foreigners and Thai nationals.
Residents watch a fire in Putra Heights in central Selangor state, Malaysia, Tuesday, April 1, 2025. (AP Photo/Amir Afiq)
KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia (AP) — A fire caused by a burst gas pipe spread to several homes and sent a fireball soaring into the sky outside Malaysia’s largest city Tuesday, injuring more than 100 people.
The towering inferno near a gas station in Putra Heights outside Kuala Lumpur was visible for kilometers (miles) and lasted for several hours. It happened during a public holiday as Muslims, who are the majority in Malaysia, celebrate the second day of Eid.
National oil company Petronas said the fire started at one of its gas pipelines at 8:10 a.m. and the affected pipeline was later isolated. Disaster management officials said shutting the valves will eventually snuff out the fire.
A massive fire burns after a gas pipeline burst on Tuesday, April 1, 2025, in Putra Heights in Puchong, Malaysia. (AP Photo/Vincent Thian)
The flames, 20 stories high at one point, were small enough for firefighters to approach around 2:45 p.m., the Selangor state fire department told the Star newspaper.
At least 49 houses were damaged and 112 people were injured, with 63 sent to the hospital for burns, breathing difficulties and other injuries, Selangor Deputy Police Chief Mohamad Zaini Abu Hassan was quoted by national Bernama news agency as saying.
Selangor Chief Minister Amirudin Shari said the fire department evacuated nearby homes as a safety measure and the residents will be placed in mosques nearby until the situation is under control.
Pictures and videos of the fireball went viral on social media, with some residents saying they felt a strong tremor with the doors and windows of their homes shaking.
Residents watch a colossal fire erupt due to a burst gas pipe in Putra Heights in central Selangor state, Malaysia, Tuesday, April 1, 2025. (AP Photo/Amir Afiq)
Lee Weng Ken, who suffered burns to his left leg, said he was shocked when the ceiling of his house collapsed and crushed his vehicle parked in the compound of the house.
“I rushed out of my house but fell and suffered burns due to the heat from the blaze near my house,” he told Bernama.
Another victim who only wanted to be known as Andy, told Bernama he ran out of his home with his children when they felt tremors and saw the raging fire about 100 meters (yards) away.
“I could only take the car out. My 18-year-old daughter injured her foot when she fell while climbing the fence due to the heat, he said.
Petronas said three gas stations were closed as a precaution, though they weren’t affected, and investigations are still underway.
A speedboat catches fire in the waters off Phuket, injuring three of 33 Russian and Kazakhstan tourists, a tour guide, and three crew members, on April 1, 2025.
PHUKET — A speedboat caught fire in the waters off Phuket while carrying 37 people, including 33 Russian and Kazakhstan tourists, one tour guide, and three crew members. The incident occurred Tuesday morning when the vessel was approximately 50 meters from Mai Thon Island. Fortunately, all passengers survived the incident.
Nachapong Pranit, Director of the Phuket Regional Harbor Office, was notified of the incident by the Andaman Sea Traffic and Safety Control Center at 9:00 AM on April 1. The speedboat was identified as the “Thanamarine 555.”
A speedboat catches fire in the waters off Phuket, injuring three of 33 Russian and Kazakhstan tourists, a tour guide, and three crew members, on April 1, 2025.
Investigations revealed that the Thanamarine 555, a twin-engine vessel with an operating license valid until August 5, 2025, had departed from Chalong Pier headed for Mai Thon Island, also known as “Honeymoon Island,” famous for its beautiful coral reefs, clear waters, and popular snorkeling spots. The incident occurred after passengers had already visited the island, with some tourists swimming in the surrounding waters.
The boat captain encountered engine problems and was attempting repairs after notifying the boat owner to send a replacement vessel. While waiting, a fire suddenly erupted and exploded. At that time, only three crew members were on board: the captain, the engineer, and one crew member. All three suffered burns and injuries from explosion debris.
Russian and Kazakhstan tourists evacuate to another speedboat after the one which they travel on caught fire near Phuket’s Mai Thon Island, on April 1, 2025.
Additionally, three tourists and the tour guide were injured by flying embers. Emergency responders transported the injured to a local hospital. The Phuket Regional Harbor Office director dispatched Harbor Patrol Boat 601 to investigate and provide assistance at the scene.
Tourism and Sports Minister Suang Thienthong has instructed the Tourist Police Bureau and relevant local agencies to provide full assistance to the tourists, focusing on safety, travel arrangements, and close medical attention for the injured.
The minister emphasized the need for thorough investigation into the cause of the incident to prevent similar occurrences in the future, reiterating that the Ministry of Tourism and Sports places the highest priority on the safety of all tourists visiting Thailand.
In this photo released by Xinhua News Agency, rescuers move a survivor out from a collapsed building in the aftermath of an earthquake in Mandalay, Myanmar, Monday, March 31, 2025. (Cai Yang/Xinhua via AP)
BANGKOK (AP) — The death toll in last week’s massive earthquake in Myanmar has passed 2,000, state media said Monday, as accounts of some people’s last moments emerged: Two hundred Buddhist monks crushed by a collapsing monastery. Fifty children killed when a preschool classroom crumbled. Seven hundred Muslims struck while praying at mosques for Ramadan.
The quake could exacerbate hunger and disease outbreaks in a country that was already one of the world’s most challenging places for humanitarian organizations to operate because of civil war, aid groups and the United Nations warned.
The 7.7 magnitude quake hit Friday, with the epicenter near Myanmar’s second-largest city of Mandalay. It damaged the city’s airport, buckled roads and collapsed hundreds of buildings along a wide swath down the country’s center.
Relief efforts are further hampered by power outages, fuel shortages and spotty communications. A lack of heavy machinery has slowed search-and-rescue operations, forcing many to search for survivors by hand in daily temperatures above 40 degrees Celsius (104 Fahrenheit).
A rescue operation is continued in front of the collapsed Sky Villa condominium in Mandalay, Myanmar Monday, March 31, 2025. (Kyodo News via AP)
Rescue workers at Mandalay’s collapsed U Hla Thein monastery said they were still searching for about 150 of the dead monks.
Some 700 Muslim worshipers attending Friday prayers were killed when mosques collapsed, said Tun Kyi, a member of the steering committee of the Spring Revolution Myanmar Muslim Network. He said some 60 mosques were damaged or destroyed. Videos posted on The Irrawaddy online news site showed several mosques toppling.
It was not clear whether those numbers were already included in the official toll.
Myanmar state MRTV reported that the leader of the military government, Senior Gen. Min Aung Hlaing, told Pakistan’s prime minister during a call that 2,065 people were killed, with more than 3,900 injured and about 270 missing.
Relief agencies expect those numbers to rise sharply, since access is slow to remote areas where communications are down.
In this photo released by Xinhua News Agency, rescuers carry out search and rescue on the damaged buildings in the aftermath of an earthquake in Mandalay, Myanmar, Monday, March 31, 2025. (Jiang Chao/Xinhua via AP)
The United Nations’ Myanmar country team called for unimpeded access for aid teams.
“Even before this earthquake, nearly 20 million people in Myanmar were in need of humanitarian assistance,” said Marcoluigi Corsi, the U.N. resident and humanitarian coordinator.
Devastation’s full extent is not clear
“We’re really not clear on the scale of the destruction at this stage,” Lauren Ellery, deputy director of programs in Myanmar for the International Rescue Committee, told The Associated Press. “They were talking about a town near Mandalay where 80% of the buildings were reportedly collapsed, but it wasn’t in the news because telecommunications have been slow.”
Groups the IRC works with have reported that some places are cut off by landslides, she said.
The World Health Organization said it has reports of three hospitals destroyed and 22 partially damaged in the region.
“There is an urgent need for trauma and surgical care, blood transfusion supplies, anesthetics, essential medicines and mental health support,” it said.
More than 10,000 buildings are collapsed or severely damaged in central and northwest Myanmar, the U.N. humanitarian agency said. One preschool classroom building collapsed in Mandalay district, killing 50 children and two teachers, it said.
An artificial intelligence analysis of satellite images of Mandalay by Microsoft’s AI for Good Lab showed 515 buildings with 80% to 100% damage and another 1,524 with 20% to 80% damage. It was not clear what percentage of the city’s buildings that represented.
Civil war had displaced millions
Rescue efforts are also complicated by the civil war. In 2021, the military seized power from the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi, sparking what has turned into significant armed resistance.
While one group has declared a partial unilateral ceasefire, the government and other armed groups have not stopped fighting.
Government forces have lost control of much of Myanmar, and many places were dangerous or impossible for aid groups to reach even before the quake. More than 3 million people have been displaced by the fighting, according to the U.N.
Ellery with the International Rescue Committee noted that the area worst hit by the earthquake was seriously damaged by flooding last year, and many displaced people sought refuge there.
Since the earthquake, many people have been sleeping outside, either because homes were destroyed or out of fear of aftershocks.
Monsoon rains start in May and finding people shelter will be a major challenge, she said.
Rescuers work at U Hla Thein Buddhist monastery that collapsed in Friday’s earthquake in Mandalay, Myanmar, Monday, March 31, 2025. (AP Photo)
Myanmar’s neighbors and allies send aid
International rescue teams from several countries are on the scene, including from Russia, China, India and several Southeast Asian countries.
On Monday, an Indian team jackhammered through slabs of fallen concrete at one site in Mandalay. They could be seen bringing out one body.
The European Union, Britain, Australia, New Zealand, South Korea and others have announced millions of dollars in aid.
Despite massive cuts and firings at the U.S. Agency for International Development — the body charged with delivering humanitarian assistance overseas — the U.S. Embassy said a team of experts was on its way to Myanmar. The embassy said it would provide up to $2 million through local organizations.
Looking for survivors in Bangkok
Heavy machineries are employed to clear the huge pile of concrete from the site of an under-construction high-rise building that collapsed on Friday after an earthquake in Bangkok, Thailand, Tuesday, April 1, 2025. (AP Photo/Wason Wanichakorn)
A small number of U.S. military personnel were sent to assist in Bangkok, where the earthquake killed at least 18 people, many at a construction site where a partially built high-rise collapsed. Another 33 have been reported injured and 78 missing, primarily at the construction site near the popular Chatuchak market.
On Monday, heavy equipment was temporarily shut down at the site and authorities urged onlookers to be silent as they used machines to try and detect signs of life.
Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt told reporters that signs had been detected Sunday night, though experts could not determine whether it had been machine error.
Watching the crews at work, Naruemon Thonglek said she had “made some peace” with the fact that her partner and five friends there were unlikely to be found alive.
“A part of me still hope they will survive,” she said.
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This story has been updated to correct that 200 monks were reported killed.
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Associated Press journalists David Rising, Jerry Harmer and Jintamas Saksornchai in Bangkok, and Jon Gambrell in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, contributed to this report.
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra presides over the opening ceremony of the new center at One Bangkok building in Bangkok on March 31, 2025.
BANGKOK — Thailand Investment and Expat Services Center was launched on Monday as a collaborative effort between the Board of Investment (BOI), Immigration Bureau, and Ministry of Labor to provide comprehensive one-stop services for investment, visa issuance, and work permits.
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra presided over the opening ceremony of the new center at One Bangkok building in Bangkok on March 31, three days after the fatal Myanmar earthquake that collapsed a State Audit Office building under construction on Friday.
In her address, the Prime Minister expressed condolences to earthquake victims and assured that the government has the situation under control, with building inspections being conducted throughout Bangkok.
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra (center) presides over the opening ceremony of the Thailand Investment and Expat Services Center (TIESC) along with Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira, BOI Secretary-General Narit Therdsteerasukdi, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Labor Boonsong Thapchaithutt, and the National Police Inspector General Pol. Gen. Thatchai Pitaneelaboot at One Bangkok building on March 31, 2025.
She confirmed that building collapse occurred only in one structure that was under construction, which is currently under investigation. She emphasized that Thailand remains a safe country for investment and tourism.
Regarding the TIESC opening, the Prime Minister commended all agencies involved in making this vision a reality. She described the center as “not just another government agency, but a symbol of Thailand’s openness, warmth, and readiness to welcome friends from around the world.”
She noted that Thailand is undergoing a significant transition, with 2024 being a “golden year for investment” featuring 3,100 investment projects valued at 1.13 trillion baht ($33.3 billion) —the highest investment application year in a decade, clearly reflecting investor confidence. These achievements have positioned Thailand as a hub for innovation and sustainable growth, particularly in strategic industries such as the bio-economy, modern automotive, advanced semiconductors and electronics, digital technology, and international business centers.
Ambassadors and foreign trade executives attend the opening ceremony of the Thailand Investment and Expat Services Center at One Bangkok building on March 31, 2025.
The Prime Minister emphasized that Thailand’s most important resource remains its people, whose hospitality, creativity, and ability to build lasting relationships form the heart of Thailand’s soft power. The government aims to attract experts in various fields who will drive future growth.
She added that the current rapidly changing business and investment environment requires excellent service that is convenient, transparent, and fast. The government is committed to facilitating business operations in Thailand and developing digital government services. TIESC represents this commitment to making doing business and living in Thailand easier through modern technology and digital innovation, providing streamlined visa and work permit services.
The government prioritizes ease of entry and stay through various programs such as long-term visas for high-skilled experts, expatriates working for foreign companies residing in Thailand, high-net-worth foreigners, pensioners, and smart visas for startups. It also facilitates visa and work permit services for executives, experts, and personnel for BOI-promoted projects.
The TIESC is located on the 6th-7th floors of One Bangkok building, PARADE Zone, Rama 4 Road, Lumphini, Pathumwan, Bangkok. It offers expedited visa and work permit services, advice on all types of long-term visas, and investment consultation to facilitate and support foreigners interested in investing or working in Thailand.
Immigration police apprehend a suspect involved in the reported sexual assault of a Finnish female tourist on Koh Samui at Phuket airport on March 31, 2025.
KOH SAMUI — Phuket police have apprehended a suspect in connection with the reported sexual assault of a Finnish female tourist on Koh Samui in Surat Thani province.
Ms. Sophai, 19, a Finnish national, filed a complaint at Bo Phut Police Station at 3:30 AM on March 30. She reported that around 11:30 PM on March 29, she had been drinking at a bar with two Danish male friends when two unfamiliar foreign men joined their table, which she did not object to.
According to Ms. Sophai, she later went to the restroom and encountered one of these unfamiliar men near the entrance. Due to alcohol intoxication, she cannot clearly recall all events. The group, including the suspect, subsequently went for a walk on the beach in front of the bar. After walking for a while, her friends returned to the bar, leaving her alone with the suspect.
While sitting on a beach chair, the suspect allegedly approached her, kissed and fondled her, and touched her private areas. She stated that she was shocked and told him to stop, but he continued the assault until he was satisfied and then returned to the bar. After gathering herself, she returned to find her two friends, told them what happened, and asked them to accompany her to file a report at Bo Phut Police Station.
Officers from the Police Region 8 Investigation Unit and Immigration officials apprehend an Israeli suspect involved in the reported sexual assault of a Finnish female tourist on Koh Samui at Phuket Airport. on March 31, 2025.
Following the report, Bo Phut investigation officers reviewed CCTV footage from the location and identified the suspect. By comparing the images with the immigration police database, they identified him as Mr. David, a 36-year-old Israeli national. Ms. Sophai confirmed the identification, and police subsequently obtained a court-issued arrest warrant.
On March 31 at approximately 4:50 PM, officers from the Police Region 8 Investigation Unit and Immigration officials apprehended the Israeli suspect at Phuket Airport as he was apparently attempting to leave the country. The suspect was taken to Saku Police Station before arrangements were made to transfer him to Bo Phut Police Station for further investigation and legal proceedings.
This incident comes just weeks after a similar case in the early hours of March 14, when a 24-year-old German tourist from Munich was sexually assaulted by two Indian tourists on a beach on Koh Phangan island after a Full Moon Party. In that case, police arrested the suspects; one confessed to rape charges while the other claimed he only hugged and kissed the victim.
Bangkok Gov. Chadchart Sittipunt talks to the media at the site of an under-construction high-rise building that collapsed after an earthquake in Bangkok, Thailand, Monday, March, 31, 2025. (AP Photo/Manish Swarup)
BANGKOK (AP) — Thai authorities said Monday they are investigating why a single office tower under construction in Bangkok collapsed during an earthquake Friday that otherwise caused limited damage in the capital.
Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt visited the site as heavy equipment pulled away rubble from the 30-story building in hopes of finding survivors among the 78 people still missing.
He said it is most urgent to first concentrate on finding whoever might be saved. “Even one life saved is worth all the effort, so I think we have to move on, carry on,” he said.
Rescuers make their way in from the top of debris to look for survivors from an under-construction high-rise building that collapsed after an earthquake in Bangkok, Thailand, Monday, March, 31, 2025. (AP Photo/Manish Swarup)
But in the longer run it’s important to ensure building safety in the city, which has millions of people living and working in thousands of high-rise buildings. The magnitude 7.7 quake centered more than 800 miles (1,200 kilometers) away killed more than 1,700 people in Myanmar and at least 18 in Thailand, most at the Bangkok construction site near the popular Chatuchak Market.
“What’s important in the long-term and medium-term, I think we need to find the root cause so at least we can learn some lessons and improve building regulations,” he said. “In the end, we will have some results that will improve safety in Bangkok.”
Shares in the property developer handling the project, Italian Thai Development, sank 27% on Monday as questions were raised about the high-rise’s design, enforcement of construction safety codes, and the state-run Chinese contractor building the structure, the State Audit Office building.
Members of an Israeli rescuer team talk at the site of an under-construction high-rise building that collapsed after an earthquake in Bangkok, Thailand, Monday, March, 31, 2025. (AP Photo/Manish Swarup)
Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, whose family owns one of Thailand’s largest construction conglomerates, told reporters he ordered an investigation committee to be set up and to report the results back to him within seven days.
He pointed to three possible factors: the designer, the inspectors or the builders.
“We will definitely find the true reasons as to why this building has collapsed, because it’s all scientific,” Anutin said.
Although it does not sit near a geologic fault, Bangkok is built on relatively unstable alluvial soil, on the banks of the Chao Phraya River. The city has long been sinking under the weight of its many tall buildings, leading authorities to restrict the use of groundwater to help reduce subsidence.
Rescuers work at the site of an under-construction high-rise building that collapsed after an earthquake in Bangkok, Thailand, Monday, March, 31, 2025. (AP Photo/Manish Swarup)
The Myanmar quake Friday gave the city an unusually long and strong jolt, causing water from rooftop pools to cascade down skyscrapers, light-rail trains to rock on their tracks, and millions of people to flee homes and apartment buildings. Many people waited for hours to see if their homes and offices were safe.
Most other damage in the city appeared to be superficial, such as fallen ceiling panels and fittings and cracked plaster.
Bangkok, March 31, 2025 – Speed meets style this April 1st at 5:30 PM as Formula 1 driver and Thai national icon Alex Albon Ansusinha makes a special appearance at SCBX Next Tech, Siam Paragon, one of Bangkok’s most iconic and trendsetting destinations. This highly anticipated event is hosted by Siam Paragon in collaboration with JAI by ONESIAM, its exclusive luxury lifestyle community.
Thailand’s sporting hero arrives in Bangkok to spread joy with his fans and family after scoring a massive number of points for his Williams Racing Team at the Australian and Chinese Grands Prix. One of Formula 1’s most popular figures, who represents Thailand in the new Netflix Drive to Survive series, Alex Albon Ansusinha inspires Thais, proving anything is possible and to pursue your dreams.
Before stepping onto the public stage, Alex will join a private VIP meet-and-greet hosted by Siam Paragon and JAI by ONESIAM, a curated community that brings together global visionaries and cultural pioneers.
This exclusive gathering offers JAI members a rare opportunity to engage with Alex – celebrating his achievements, his story, and his influence as a borderless ambassador for Thailand.
Alex Albon Ansusinha commented “I am very happy and excited to be back home in Thailand to spend time with my family and fans before the next block of races. I have five races inside six weeks but it very important for me to come home and bring positivity to the region, especially after the recent earthquake that has affected so many people and their homes. My heart and thoughts goes out to you, and I will be racing for you in Japan this weekend.”
“Siam Paragon is proud to welcome Alex Albon Ansusinha back to Bangkok,” said Momori Hirabayashi, Business Development, Siam Piwat. “He is not only a world-class athlete but also a role model who represents the power of passion, resilience, and ambition without borders. His journey deeply resonates with the new generation, and we’re proud to bring him closer to fans here in Thailand.”
This appearance underscores Siam Paragon’s continued commitment to delivering world-class experiences that connect people to the icons, culture, and inspiration shaping today’s world.
With its position at the heart of Bangkok’s luxury and lifestyle scene, Siam Paragon remains a hub where global excellence meets Thai pride.
Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to meet Alex Albon—Tuesday, April 1st at 5:30 – 6.30 PM, at SCBX Next Tech, 4th Floor, Siam Paragon.
The De-Suung Skilling Programme invites global trainers to build capabilities and inspire confidence across more than 157 disciplines
(March 06, 2025: Thimphu, Bhutan); The De-Suung Skilling Programme (DSP), a transformative initiative under the vision of His Majesty The King of Bhutan, is inviting global trainers and industry experts to join its mission to equip Bhutanese youth with the skills needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving world.
As one of the largest paid training programmes in the world, the DSP provides accelerated, high-impact training across more than 157 disciplines. The programme is designed to enhance capabilities, boost confidence, and create economic opportunities for Bhutan’s youth. By collaborating with international trainers, DSP aims to introduce global expertise, best practices, and innovation, bridging the gap between talent and opportunity while fostering long-term career development.
The DSP offers a rare chance to make a tangible impact on young lives while experiencing Bhutan’s unique cultural landscape. Trainers play a vital role in shaping the future of Bhutanese youth by equipping them with industry-relevant skills and professional confidence. The programme offers a fully immersive cultural experience, allowing trainers to explore Bhutan’s rich heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and deep-rooted traditions. To support trainers during their time in Bhutan, the programme provides fully furnished accommodation, monthly remuneration ranging from USD 800 to 2,000, as well as return economy class flights to and from Bhutan, visas, and flexible training dates. Bhutan’s daily Sustainable Development Fees will also be taken care of.
Who can apply?
The DSP seeks experienced professionals and educators who have industry expertise, relevant certifications, and a strong command of English, as it serves as the primary medium of instruction. Trainers should have excellent interpersonal skills, adaptability to different cultural environments, and a passion for mentoring and skills development.
Expanding skills across key industries
The programme offers training in a diverse range of industries, from construction and building services to culinary arts, tourism, hospitality, agriculture, and creative fields. Training areas include plumbing, carpentry, masonry, and mechanical fitting within construction, while the culinary sector focuses on international cuisine, food and dairy processing, bakery and pastry, as well as restaurant management. Tourism and hospitality skills include foreign language instruction, concierge services, and bartending. The programme also extends to beauty and wellness, covering spa therapy, advanced hair and beauty treatments, and nail art.
For those with expertise in agriculture and sustainability, DSP offers opportunities to teach floriculture, smart agricultural systems, organic farming, and post-harvest handling. The arts and crafts segment includes woodworking, furniture design, metal smithing, ceramics, and product packaging. The automotive and electronics sector offers training in auto mechanics, electronics repair, and home appliance maintenance. Additionally, the programme caters to ICT and digital marketing professionals, cybersecurity specialists, data analysts, and content creators. Trainers can also contribute to Bhutan’s creative industries by teaching performing arts, photography, videography, music production, video editing, VFX, and special effects. Trainers with expertise in areas not listed are encouraged to propose additional skill areas.
Training locations and responsibilities
Trainers will be assigned to various training centers across Bhutan, where they will be responsible for delivering high-quality training aligned with international standards. The programme emphasizes professionalism, strong work ethics, and an entrepreneurial mindset, ensuring that participants are not only skilled but also prepared to take on leadership roles in their respective fields.
About the De-Suung Skilling Programme
DSP is a national initiative that provides short-term, high-impact training to unemployed Bhutanese youth. All participants have undergone the De-Suung Training Programme, a values-based personal development initiative that encourages volunteerism, ethics, community service, and civic responsibility. Through this programme, youth engage in disaster response, charitable activities, and social services, making them ideal candidates for upskilling and workforce development.
Since its launch in April 2021, DSP has successfully trained thousands of young Bhutanese, integrating international expertise, cutting-edge skills, and entrepreneurial support. The programme aligns with the Royal Government’s commitment to vocational and technical education, offering participants a structured path toward meaningful careers, self-employment, and business ownership. Beyond technical training, DSP provides practical experience through on-the-job training, mentorship, and business incubation programmes, helping youth transition from trainees to skilled professionals and entrepreneurs. Some trainings are followed by engagement in National Service projects, giving trainees the opportunity to apply their newly acquired skills in real-world scenarios.
“This initiative is more than just training—it’s about shaping futures, fostering resilience, and creating a generation of skilled, confident youth ready to build Bhutan’s future. This initiative represents the largest voluntourism training project ever undertaken in Bhutan. With more than 157 specialized training programmes, it is an unparalleled opportunity for trainers to make a difference while immersing themselves in one of the world’s most unique cultural and natural environments and contributing to the vision of His Majesty the King of Bhutan. This programme is ideal for a diverse group of trainers, including mid-career professionals looking for a meaningful experience, retirees seeking to share their knowledge, and individuals who have previously visited Bhutan as well as those discovering the country for the first time,” Dasho Tashi Dorji, Chairperson of the DSP.
How to Apply
Interested trainers can learn more and apply via the official DSP website at https://dsp.org.bt or submit their applications through this google form.
For media inquiries, interviews, or partnerships, contact the De-Suung Skilling Programme at [email protected] or visit https://dsp.org.bt.
Join us in shaping Bhutan’s future—one skill at a time. Applications for this unique opportunity close in August 2025.
