Six Partners Showcase MEGA MAT Plastic Waste Art at Bangkok Design Festival

By

-

18 February 2025, 15:44

BANGKOK – Six leading partners, including PTT Global Chemical Public Company Limited (GC), a global leader in the chemical industry dedicated to sustainable innovation, have joined to create MEGA MAT: Reimagining Waste into Wonder.

This collaboration includes the Embassy of the Netherlands (NL), the Creative Economy Agency (CEA), the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA), the ASEAN Urban Design and Creative Hub (Urban Ally), and MVRDV, a renowned Dutch design firm specializing in architecture and urban issues.

Together, they have transformed used plastic waste into MEGA MAT, an artistic masterpiece that requires skilled artisans to weave and shade the colors according to the design precisely. Inspired by the roof of Wat Suthat Thepwararam, the piece is not only a stunning visual statement but also a functional installation, turning into an interactive public space during Bangkok Design Week 2025: Design Up+Rising. This initiative further reinforces GC’s leadership in sustainability and innovation.

Mr. Narongsak Jivakanun, Chief Executive Officer of GC, stated, “MEGA MAT is a work of art that embodies the concept of End-to-End Waste Management, reflecting GC’s commitment to managing plastic waste from source to end-of-life. By systematically repurposing used plastic, we sustainably create new value.

The mat is entirely upcycled from recycled polypropylene (rPP) resin derived from discarded woven sacks and plastic waste in Thailand. Expertly crafted into durable Thai mats, this process not only reduces plastic waste but also adds value to discarded materials while promoting the circular economy in Thailand’s industrial sector.”

“We believe that art is a powerful medium for raising environmental awareness. MEGA MAT is more than just a large-scale artwork that symbolizes change. This collaboration aims to inspire people to recognize the importance of resource efficiency and to see the potential of recycling and upcycling in creating something new and beneficial for society.”

MEGA MAT: Reimagining Waste into Wonder

MEGA MAT is a large-scale upcycled mat artwork measuring 34.2 meters long and 25.2 meters wide. It comprises 532 upcycled mats, each weighing 1 kilogram, meticulously stitched together to form a total weight of 532 kilograms. Inspired by the roof of Wat Suthat Thepwararam, this installation transforms into a vibrant public space for urban communities.

These mats are crafted from recycled polypropylene (rPP) resin, sourced from discarded woven sack fibers and post-consumer plastic waste in Thailand. These materials are transformed into high-quality plastic pellets, extruded into threads, and woven into durable, intricately patterned Thai mats with vibrant colors through an upcycling process.

The creation of MEGA MAT requires exceptional craftsmanship, as artisans carefully shade and align each mat to match the intricate design. Given that the structure is inspired by a temple roof, its assembly and installation demand precision engineering to account for weight distribution and structural stability while ensuring it remains functional as a public space.

After its showcase at Bangkok Design Week 2025: Design Up+Rising, MEGA MAT will continue to serve a meaningful purpose. It will be donated to the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) for use in public spaces, shared with GC’s business partners for further utilization, and incorporated into the*UPTOYOU Spring/Summer 2025 collection, where it will be repurposed into products such as handbags and souvenirs.

GC and its partners invite everyone to experience the wonders of MEGA MAT—where creativity and sustainability seamlessly come together. This installation encourages visitors to explore new ideas and contribute to building a more sustainable world.

Join us at Bangkok Design Week 2025: Design Up+Rising, from February 15–23, 2025, at Lan Khon Mueang, Bangkok City Hall.

For more details, visit: https://www.bangkokdesignweek.com/bkkdw2025.

#MEGAMAT #BangkokDesignWeek2025 #DesignUpRising #Sustainability #พลาสติกเทิร์นเมือง

#GCChemistryforBetterLiving

IoT & Predictive Analytics: Smart Warehousing at SDE 2025

By

Contributor

-

18 February 2025, 15:31

The future of warehousing and fulfillment is undergoing a seismic shift, with IoT (Internet of Things) and Predictive Analytics emerging as game-changers in modern logistics. At the Smart Delivery Expo 2025, held from January 22-24 in Bangkok, Thailand, industry leaders shared insights on the next wave of supply chain innovation.

Among the distinguished speakers was Prabhakaran Rajendran, Director of Supply Chain Practice at CSCS LLC, whose keynote, “Transforming Warehouse Fulfillment with IoT and Predictive Analytics,” emphasized the critical role of real-time data in optimizing warehouse operations.

“Warehouses today struggle with reactive decision-making. The lack of real-time insights impacts everything from order fulfillment speed to resource utilization,” Prabhakaran noted. “The question is—how can businesses bridge the gap between the physical and digital worlds to make data-driven, real-time decisions?”

The Industry’s Biggest Challenge: Lack of Real-Time Visibility

Prabhakaran highlighted a critical statistic—77% of warehouses lack real-time visibility, leading to inefficiencies, resource misallocation, and missed Service Level Agreement (SLA) deadlines. IoT-powered devices such as RFID tags, GPS trackers, and smart sensors offer a transformative solution by turning warehouses into intelligent ecosystems that predict disruptions before they occur.

Key Benefits of IoT and Predictive Analytics in Warehousing

Forecasting Demand & Resource Allocation: AI-driven analytics ensure optimal stock levels.
Predictive Maintenance: IoT sensors on conveyor belts and forklifts reduce downtime and enhance asset longevity.
Real-Time Inventory Tracking: 5G-enabled IoT devices provide precise location tracking, minimizing order errors.
Worker Safety & Efficiency: Wearable IoT devices track worker fatigue and health, improving workplace safety.
Automated Yard Check-In: AI-driven smart gates streamline truck check-ins, reducing congestion.

“IoT and predictive analytics are not just tools—they’re enablers of smarter, more agile operations,” Prabhakaran concluded.

Industry Leaders Weigh in on the Future of Supply Chain

The Smart Delivery Expo 2025 brought together key industry players who shared their perspectives on the evolving logistics landscape:

Nichkamol Songvisit, Head of Strategy at Central Department Store Group, discussed how retail supply chains must evolve with omnichannel fulfillment strategies.
Joe Wiang-in, Director of Transport Solutions Design at DHL Supply Chain, focused on last-mile delivery innovations and the role of automation in reducing logistics costs.
Nithi Satchatippavarn, CEO and Co-founder of My Cloud Fulfillment, explored the growing impact of MHE automation solutions on e-commerce businesses in Southeast Asia.

The Warehouse of 2025: A Glimpse into the Future

As logistics shifts towards automation and AI-driven decision-making, Prabhakaran and other speakers emphasized key trends shaping the warehouse of the future:

Green Warehousing: IoT-driven solutions for energy efficiency and sustainable storage conditions.
Autonomous Warehouses: AI-powered robotic automation to streamline picking and packing.
Smart Asset Tracking: Seamless end-to-end visibility in supply chains.
AI-Driven Workforce Optimization: Wearable IoT improving worker safety and productivity.

The Smart Delivery Expo 2025 underscored one undeniable fact—the future of fulfillment is no longer about reacting to disruptions but predicting, optimizing, and delivering smarter than ever before.

German Chemist’s Drug Cocktail Sparks Chaos in Krabi

By

Khaosod English

-

18 February 2025, 13:09

KRABI — A German chemical engineer was hospitalized in Krabi after experiencing severe hallucinations from consuming DMT mixed with cannabis. The incident occurred on February 17 in the Sai Thai subdistrict of Krabi.

Claude, 37, was found in an agitated state at his single-story house near Na Hua Non Mosque. His Thai wife, Ms. Kan, 33, contacted authorities after he began displaying erratic behavior, believing someone was trying to harm him.

Police and rescue workers from the Miracle of Life Foundation responded to the scene. The situation was tense as Claude initially refused assistance, removing his shirt and shouting about his wealth. After careful negotiation and seeing the restraining equipment carried by officers, he eventually agreed to receive medical treatment.

krabi german1 — Police officers escort Claude, a German national, for rehabilitation after his drug-induced episode from consuming self-mixed DMT on February 17, 2025.

According to Ms. Kan, her husband, a chemical engineer, had been experimenting with various drug combinations over the past two weeks. He reportedly synthesized DMT (dimethyltryptamine), a hallucinogenic compound, and combined it with cannabis. The mixture included ingredients such as sodium hydroxide, alcohol, and mimosa plant extracts.

“He’s consumed it less than 10 times, but it’s drastically changed his personality,” Ms. Kan explained. “Sometimes he believes Buddha is present with him, other times he tries to climb through windows.”

Police Senior Sergeant Major Teerajet Sommut noted this was Claude’s second drug-induced episode. No injuries were reported, and the suspect cooperated with authorities who transferred him to a medical facility for treatment and rehabilitation.

______________

B.Grimm Power Ranks in Top 5% Globally, Makes S&P Sustainability Yearbook for 4th Year

By

MC Marketing

-

18 February 2025, 13:08

Bangkok,17 February 2025 – B.Grimm Power Public Company Limited (BGRIM) has reinforced its commitment by securing a place in the S&P Global Sustainability Yearbook 2025 for the fourth consecutive year. Notably, the company has improved its ranking to the Top 5% within the global electric utilities sector, up from the Top 10% in the previous year. This advancement highlights B.Grimm Power’s ongoing dedication to enhancing Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) standards.

Guided by B.Grimm’s 147-year philosophy of Doing business with compassion, B.Grimm Power is dedicated to creating long-term positive impacts on society and the environment while investing in clean energy and enhancing energy security for the industrial sector. The company actively integrates digital technologies and innovative solutions to improve operational efficiency, develop advanced energy solutions, minimise resource consumption, and optimises environmentally sustainable energy production. Furthermore, B.Grimm Power prioritises sustainable supply chain management and corporate governance excellence, ensuring that the interests of all stakeholders are well considered.

B.Grimm Power’s dedication to sustainability has earned prestigious national and international recognitions. The company achieved the highest AAA rating in the SET ESG Ratings 2024 and has maintained its position as a sustainability stock for the seventh consecutive year, as recognised by the Stock Exchange of Thailand. Moreover, B.Grimm Power is included in the FTSE4Good Index Series, earning a 4.5 out of 5 scores, with highest score of 5 in the governance dimension. Committed to integrating sustainability into its operations, B.Grimm Power continues to balance economic value creation with social and environmental responsibility, reinforcing trust among investors, customers, and business partners. B.Grimm Power remains steadfast in its ambition to achieve Net Zero Carbon Emissions by 2050.

About The S&P Global Sustainability Yearbook
The S&P Global Sustainability Yearbook is a globally recognised annual assessment that ranks corporate sustainability performance based on the Corporate Sustainability Assessment (CSA) conducted by S&P Global. The assessment evaluates key ESG factors, reflecting a company’s ability to manage sustainability-related risks and opportunities. In 2025, a total of 780 companies were selected for inclusion in the Sustainability Yearbook from a pool of over 7,690 companies assessed worldwide.

ACT’s Billion-Dollar UAE Partnership Eyes Digital Revolution

By

Contributor

-

18 February 2025, 11:15

ACT (ACET), a world-class digital asset powered by blockchain technology, signed a historic Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Saif Belhasa Holding (SBH), one of the most influential and leading conglomerates in the Middle East and UAE. This collaboration aims to develop innovative financial solutions by utilizing ACT (ACET) as a payment method and an advanced investment tool across various industries within the SBH Group.

Mr. Worawat Narknawdee, a renowned Thai entrepreneur, investor, and crypto billionaire—recognized as one of Asia’s top Bitcoin holders and the founder of the ACT (ACET), a world-class digital asset powered by blockchain technology—revealed that on February 13, 2025, an official Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed between ACT (ACET) and Saif Belhasa Holding (SBH). The agreement was led by Dr. Saif Ahmad Belhasa, Chairman and Founder of Saif Belhasa Holding (SBH), one of the most influential conglomerates in the Middle East and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). SBH exceeds $5 billion (approximately 170 billion THB) in company valuation and operates across multiple industries, including real estate, construction, retail, automotive, education, finance, etc. This strategic partnership aims to integrate blockchain technology and ACT (ACET)’s digital payment system—an advanced investment tool—to facilitate seamless financial transactions across SBH’s industries and within the UAE. The collaboration follows a three-year roadmap as outlined below:

Real Estates: Implement ACT (ACET) as a medium for purchasing SBH’s high-end real estate properties. Additionally, both parties will explore the implementation of NFT Property Tokenization, enabling fractional ownership of real estate through blockchain technology.

Automotives: Implement ACT (ACET) to be accepted for purchasing and leasing luxury vehicles from SBH dealerships. It will also be integrated as an option for crypto-backed financing options.

Retail and Hospitality: Implement the adoption of ACT (ACET) as a payment method in SBH-owned shopping malls, restaurants, hotels, and other businesses. ACT (ACET) holders will receive exclusive benefits such as special rewards, VIP memberships, and discounts. Furthermore, a next-generational loyalty system will be developed to enhance customer rewards and engagement.

Financial Services: Collaborate to launch blockchain-based financial products such as lending, staking and participation in investment funds for family offices and private equity groups. This initiative aims to drive institutional adoption of ACT (ACET) while exploring venture capital investment opportunities that primarily leverage crypto assets.

Smart Contracts and Digital Assets: Integrate ACT (ACET)’s blockchain infrastructure with SBH’s financial system to enhance the efficiency and security of contract execution, asset transfers, and automated payments. Additionally, cooperate on exploring the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) with blockchain to optimize business operations.
Institutional Expansion and Government Collaboration: Collaborate to properly align blockchain strategies with the United Arab Emirates’s financial regulations. Coordinate with the Dubai Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA) and the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) to achieve legal recognition and promote the widespread adoption of ACT (ACET).

“This historic collaboration will establish ACT (ACET) as a widely accepted digital asset with real-world applications in the business sector of the UAE—one of the world’s wealthiest nations, spanning industries such as real estate, luxury goods, automotive, finance, retail, hospitality, etc. Moving forward, ACT (ACET) will no

longer be limited to speculative investment but will become an integral part of the digital economy, with SBH and the UAE serving as the most powerful starting points before expanding to multiple countries worldwide. This will lead to the adoption of crypto in everyday life. I believe that this partnership will significantly enhance the popularity of ACT (ACET), driving its total market capitalization higher and positioning it as one of the world’s leading cryptocurrencies in a shorter timeframe,” said Mr. Worawat in conclusion.

Dr. Saif Ahmad Belhasa, Chairman and Founder of Saif Belhasa Holding (SBH), stated that this MOU allows SBH to take a bold step forward into the digital future, marking it as one of the leading corporations in the UAE to integrate blockchain technology into its diverse business ecosystem. SBH will officially adopt ACT (ACET) as a digital payment method in designated business sectors, and promote its use among institutional investors, business partners, and government agencies. Additionally, SBH will support ACT (ACET) in its goal to achieve global recognition through strategic collaborations and business partnerships.

“This partnership between SBH and ACT (ACET) will revolutionize financial solutions and enhance SBH’s business efficiency through blockchain and digital assets. Our goal is to lead the payment industry, both in the UAE and globally, in collaboration with ACT (ACET), our outstanding partner.”

About ACT (ACET) and Saif Belhasa Holding (SBH)

ACT (ACET) is a global blockchain-powered digital asset founded in 2021 by Worawat Narknawadee, a renowned entrepreneur and investor with over 13 years of experience in the cryptocurrency industry. ACT (ACET) currently has a total trading volume of over $413 million (approximately 14 billion THB) and is held by more than 156,000 users worldwide. (Source: https://acet.finance/ )

Meanwhile, Saif Belhasa Holding (SBH) was established in 2001 and is among the most influential and successful business groups in the Middle East and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Under the leadership of Dr. Saif Ahmad Belhasa, SBH plays a vital role in driving the UAE’s economy, with a company value exceeding $5 billion. Dr. Saif Ahmad Belhasa was once ranked 38th on the list of the world’s most powerful Arabs. Today, SBH operates over 50 subsidiary
companies with over 10,000 employees across various industries, including construction, real estate, recruitment and hiring, automotive, retail, finance, advertising, tourism, travel etc. (Source: https://saifbelhasaholding.com)

Phil Jones on Playing in the Reignwood Icons of Football

By

Contributor

-

18 February 2025, 09:00

Phil Jones, the former Manchester United star and current Team England player, is gearing up for the Reignwood Icons of Football tournament, set to take place in Bangkok on March 1-2, 2025. Hosted at the world-class Robinswood Golf Course in Reignwood Park, this event marks the first time the Icons Series will be held in Asia, bringing together 24 iconic footballers in a thrilling golf competition.

Jones shared his excitement about the event, highlighting the uniqueness of the experience:
“This is such a unique event. To play golf at such a high level alongside teammates and old rivals is exciting, but doing it in Thailand, a country known for its passion for sports and incredible fans, makes it even more special.”

Why Footballers Love Golf: When asked why so many footballers take to golf, Jones pointed to the love of competition and the familiar thrill of performing under pressure.
“As footballers, we thrive on competition. Golf brings back that feeling of playing under pressure—whether it’s hitting a crucial shot or playing in front of fans. It’s the same buzz I felt stepping onto the pitch before a big match. That mix of nerves and excitement is what makes it so special,” he said.

Reuniting with Old Teammates and Facing Old Rivals: Team England, captained by Lee Westwood, includes several familiar faces for Jones, such as Paul Scholes and Joe Hart. Jones is eager to reconnect with them on the golf course and has plans to fit in some practice rounds with Hart ahead of the tournament.
“Joe and I have already talked about getting a few rounds in before the event,” Jones revealed. “It’s going to be great to spend time with everyone again and get that team chemistry going, even if it’s on a different kind of grass!”

Jones is also excited about facing Nemanja Vidić, his former Manchester United teammate, who will be representing Team World.
“Vidić was an incredible teammate—tough as nails and one of the hardest defenders to break down. Facing him on the golf course is going to be very different, but I’m sure he’ll still bring that same intensity. It’ll be great to share the competition with him again, even if we’re on opposite sides this time,” Jones reflected.

The team also includes legends like Robbie Fowler, John Terry, and Theo Walcott, while Team World, captained by Sergio Garcia, features other greats like Luís Figo, Ronald de Boer, and Diego Forlán.
“Team World is looking strong. They’ve got some classy players on their side, so we’ll need to bring our A-game to give them a proper challenge,” Jones added.

Competing in Thailand: Jones reflected on his past visits to Thailand during his football career and is thrilled to be returning.
“Thai fans are some of the most passionate and welcoming I’ve ever met. What’s really exciting about this event is that fans will be supporting players from both teams, especially with so many former Manchester United stars involved. It’s going to create such a dynamic and fun atmosphere,” he said.

Despite his enthusiasm, Jones noted that his visit would be brief due to commitments to complete his coaching badges back in England.
“I’d love to stay longer and explore more of Thailand, but I’ve got to get back to focus on my coaching. Hopefully, I’ll get another chance to spend more time here in the future,” he added.

About the Event: The Reignwood Icons of Football promises two action-packed days of drama, featuring matchplay formats like Alternate Shots, Fourballs, and Singles matches. Fans will enjoy unrivaled access to the players, watching every swing, every shot, and every moment of tension up close.

This event not only brings football legends to the golf course but also reinforces Thailand’s position as a world-class sports tourism destination. With a global broadcast reaching over 80 countries and thousands of fans expected onsite, the tournament is set to deliver unforgettable moments for all.

Current Team Lineups
Team England – Captained by Lee Westwood:

Paul Ince
Robbie Fowler
Joe Hart
Theo Walcott
Paul Scholes
John Terry
Phil Jagielka
Teddy Sheringham
Phil Jones

Team World – Captained by Sergio Garcia:

Dwight Yorke
Patrik Berger
Gabriel Batistuta
Luís Figo
Peter Schmeichel
David Ginola
Ruud Gullit
Nemanja Vidić
Gianfranco Zola
Diego Forlán
Ronald de Boer

Tickets and Availability
Tickets for the Reignwood Icons of Football event start at 650 THB and are available now at www.icons-series.com. Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to watch your favorite football icons compete in a brand-new format.

Thai Teen Agent for Chinese Faces Charges in Fatal Escort Case

By

Khaosod English

-

18 February 2025, 01:37

BANGKOK — Police have arrested an 18-year-old modeling agent in connection with the death of Airada Potaram, 22, who died while providing escort services to a Chinese client named Wu Douying.

Before her death, Airada had sent messages to her modeling agent asking if she could decline using drugs, but was told she should take “a little” as the client requested.

On February 17, authorities arrested and questioned the modeling agent who communicated with Airada before her death. The suspect, identified as Panita “Alin,” allegedly acted as an intermediary arranging services between Chinese clients and escorts. She has been charged with facilitating prostitution, with potential additional human trafficking charges pending investigation.

During brief comments to reporters while being escorted from the interrogation room, Alin stated that this was Airada’s first escort job. When asked about the victim’s drug use history, Alin claimed she “didn’t know.”

modelling1 — Police question Alin, an 18-year-old modeling agent in connection with the death of Airada Potaram, 22, at Chokchai Police Station in Bangkok, on Feb. 17, 2025.

Investigation sources revealed that Alin confessed to arranging escort services, including for Airada. She reportedly operated a large modeling agency network with over 1,000 women. Alin would receive payment directly from clients before paying the women, and was trusted within the industry for guaranteeing payment even if clients failed to pay.

Airada’s mother and sister maintain she had never used drugs, according to her close friends’ testimonies. The family has raised concerns about initial police handling of the case, claiming officers suggested accepting compensation instead of filing charges and implied the case would be difficult to prosecute due to voluntary drug use.

Police Colonel Jarin Jintapala of Chokchai Police Station denied any misconduct in the investigation, stating that immigration authorities were notified immediately to prevent the Chinese suspect from fleeing the country. Authorities are currently investigating Wu Douying’s multiple entries into Thailand under the alias “Jessada.”

chinese hunt hotel4 — Ms. Airada, 21, in a photo provided by her family (left), and in her last CCTV image before entering the hotel on the evening of February 9. She was found dead on February 10, 2025.

Dr. Weerasak Charasicharoen, a forensic medicine expert at Srinakharinwirot University, noted that “happy water” and ketamine found at the scene are extremely dangerous substances. He explained that “happy water,” popular among Chinese drug users, contains eight different substances including four depressants and four stimulants, with date rape drugs among them. The combination with alcohol can be particularly lethal, potentially leading to circulatory failure as indicated in preliminary autopsy findings.

The investigation continues as authorities await blood test results to determine the presence of drugs in the victim’s system. Given the family’s insistence that Airada had no history of drug use, investigators are considering the possibility that she may have been forced to consume the substances, leading to a fatal reaction.

___________

Previous report:

Police Hunt for Chinese Tourist After Woman Found Dead in Bangkok Hotel

BGF Chief Sets Feb 20 for First 200 Chinese Repatriations

By

Khaosod English

-

17 February 2025, 23:48

Maung Chit Thu, leader of the Border Guard Force (BGF/KNA), holds a press conference at BGF headquarters in Myawaddy, Myanmar, on February 17, 2025.

MYAWADDY — Myanmar Border Guard Force (BGF) Commander Colonel Saw Chit Thu announced plans to combat scammer operations in Myawaddy during a press conference at BGF headquarters on February 17.

The commander, who is also known as Colonel Maung Chit Thu, confirmed BGF will cooperate with Thai and Chinese authorities. The first group of Chinese nationals will be repatriated on February 20, with the entire crackdown operation expected to conclude by month’s end.

The commander outlined that BGF will oversee cleanup operations across several key areas including KK Park, Myawaddy, and Shwe Kokko. All individuals detained during the operation will be transferred to Myawaddy, where Myanmar Police Department officers dispatched from Naypyidaw will process their cases and document their information.

BGF forces inspect hundreds of foreigners at a Shwe Kokko building as leader Maung Chit Thu pledges to return illegal workers to Thailand, February 14, 2025.

This announcement follows BGF’s recent actions, which began on February 14 with the screening of over 600 foreign nationals at a nine-story facility in Shwe Kokko’s Yatai New City project, located across from Thailand’s Wang Kaew village in Mae Sot district, Tak province. The operation marks a significant shift in BGF’s position on tackling illegal online operations and scammer networks in the region.

Meanwhile, Thailand’s Department of Special Investigation (DSI) met with prosecutors from the Office of Human Trafficking Cases for over three hours, submitting a second batch of evidence. This follows an earlier consultation where prosecutors requested additional evidence to support arrest warrant applications for Maung Chit Thu and his associates on human trafficking charges. Notably,

Maung Chit Thu himself is under investigation by the DSI regarding a 2022 case involving eight Indian nationals, potentially facing human trafficking charges.

_________

A Top Chinese Official Tours Thai-Myanmar Border to Highlight Crackdown on Scam Centers

By

Associated Press

-

17 February 2025, 23:09

Thai-Myanmar — Chinese believed to have been trafficked and trapped into working in online scam centers after they were rescued in Myawaddy district in eastern Myanmar, Monday, Feb. 17, 2025. (AP Photo/Chiravuth Rungjamratratsami)

JINTAMAS SAKSORNCHAI, BANGKOK — Efforts to shut down online scam centers in Myanmar appeared to gain momentum on Monday as a top Chinese security official visited both sides of the Thai-Myanmar border ahead of expected large-scale repatriations of workers in the illicit industry.

The visit by Liu Zhongyi, China’s vice minister of public security and commissioner of the Criminal Investigation Bureau, was part of a stepped-up effort by the three countries to address the online scam problem, Thailand’s Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai told reporters.

Areas of Myanmar bordering Thailand have been serving as havens for criminal syndicates employing an estimated hundreds of thousands of people from Southeast Asia and elsewhere who help carry out online scams including false romantic ploys, bogus investment pitches and illegal gambling schemes.

Such scams have cost victims around the world tens of billions of dollars, while the people recruited to carry them out have often been tricked into taking the jobs under false pretenses and find themselves trapped in virtual slavery.

Last week, some 260 people from 20 nations, including many from Africa, crossed from Myanmar into Thailand after they were reportedly rescued from scam centers.

Thailand and China coordinate crackdown on scam centers

On a visit to China in early February, Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra vowed along with China’s leader Xi Jinping to crack down on the scam networks. Just ahead of her visit, Thailand cut off electricity, internet and gas supplies to several areas in Myanmar along the border, citing national security and severe damage that Thailand has suffered from scam operations.

AP25037090747365 — In this photo released by Thailand’s Government Spokesman Office, Chinese President Xi Jinping, right, shakes hands with Thailand’s Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra in Beijing, China, Thursday, Feb. 6, 2025. (Thailand’s Government Spokesman Office via AP)

The repatriations of foreign workers from Myanmar have been organized by the Border Guard Force in Myawaddy, a militia of the Karen ethnic minority that exercises control over the area. However, critics have accused it of being involved in the criminal activities, at least to the extent of providing protection to the scam centers.

The group’s leader, Saw Chit Thu, denied in a news conference on Monday that his group was involved in scam activities, but acknowledged business links to some properties hosting the centers, which he said initially operated simply as resorts.

Thai media reported last week that Thailand’s Department of Special Investigation was considering seeking arrest warrants for Chit Thu and others for alleged human trafficking.

Thousands of workers employed by scam networks

Thai officials have said as many as 7,000-10,000 more people may be repatriated, but Phumtham cautioned that Thailand would only receive those that are ready to be taken back right away by their home countries.

AP25048529825552 — Chinese believed to have been trafficked and trapped into working in online scam centers after they were rescued in Myawaddy district in eastern Myanmar, Monday, Feb. 17, 2025. (AP Photo/Chiravuth Rungjamratratsami)

The Bangkok Post newspaper reported that an initial batch of about 600 Chinese nationals from scam centers are expected to be flown back to China on chartered flights when Liu concludes his visit.

Liu visited the border areas in Thailand’s Tak province on Monday and appeared in Myawaddy in Myanmar, apparently at a location where hundreds of people believed to have been rounded up from several scam centers are being held awaiting repatriation.

Video of Liu’s visit showed hundreds of people there sitting on the ground with their belongings in a large open-walled hall.

“ China is actively conducting bilateral and multilateral cooperation with Thailand, Myanmar, and other countries, taking comprehensive measures to address both the symptoms and root causes, and working together to block criminals from committing crimes in relevant countries,” Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said in Beijing.

“This is part of our joint efforts to eradicate the scourge of online gambling and telecom fraud, and to maintain the safety of people’s lives and property and the order of exchanges and cooperation among regional countries.”

Stories of Chinese trapped in Myanmar hurt Thailand’s reputation

Dramatic stories of Chinese people being lured to work in Thailand only to be trafficked into a scam compound in Myanmar spread widely on social media in China, causing alarm and denting Thailand’s reputation as a safe destination for Chinese visitors.

Among those trapped was Chinese actor Wang Xing, who arrived in Thailand on a promise of getting a job and was abducted to Myanmar. He was quickly rescued after the incident circulated on social media.

An earlier crackdown on scam centers in Myanmar was initiated in late 2023, after China expressed embarrassment and concern over illegal casinos and scam operations along its border in Myanmar’s northern Shan state.

Ethnic guerrilla groups with close ties to Beijing shut down many operations, and an estimated 45,000 Chinese nationals suspected of involvement were repatriated.

Foreign Musicians in Pai Await Bangkok Transfer for Deportation

By

Khaosod English

-

17 February 2025, 20:41

MAE HONG SON — Immigration authorities are set to deport three foreign musicians – one Brazilian and two Israeli nationals – for performing without valid work permits, officials announced on February 17.

Police Lieutenant Colonel Wichai Panna, Mae Hong Son Immigration Inspector, confirmed the musicians are currently being held at the local immigration detention facility while awaiting transfer to Bangkok Immigration headquarters. The Irish owner of the establishment where they performed has been released on bail.

The case drew media attention after the Brazilian musician’s Israeli girlfriend reached out to local reporters, questioning whether officials had acted excessively. According to her statement, the musicians were merely playing during a casual visit to the bar. She expressed concern that the prolonged legal proceedings have caused her boyfriend to miss a scheduled performance in Japan.

Foreign nationals perform at Jazz House Pai in Moo 3, Wiang Tai Sub-district, Pai District, Mae Hong Son Province, moments before police officers identified themselves and made arrests on February 13, 2025.

However, Lt. Col. Wichai countered these claims, stating that the investigation was initiated following local complaints about noise disturbance and illegal employment of foreigners.

“Our investigation confirmed they were regular employees, performing as the second band each night,” he said. “All three detainees have admitted to receiving regular payment from the bar owner, which clearly violates work permit regulations.”

The case has highlighted growing tensions in Pai, a popular tourist destination in Mae Hong Son province, where the local community has expressed concerns about the increasing foreign presence. Officials note that Pai, with a Thai population of 21,000, currently hosts approximately 3,000 Israeli residents.

israelis deport — The Immigration Bureau provides a photo showing four Israeli individuals who were deported on February 13, 2025, via flight LY084 from Suvarnabhumi to Israel and have been blacklisted from entering the kingdom.

This incident follows recent controversies, including a disturbance at Pai Hospital involving four Israeli nationals and complaints about a local synagogue. While concerns were raised about the synagogue hosting regular parties, security officials who investigated on February 11 found no evidence of improper activities, confirming the facility is used solely for religious purposes.

Local authorities attribute the growing Israeli presence in Pai to social media promotion within the Israeli community, portraying the town as a peaceful alternative to their home country. This rapid demographic shift has sparked discussions about cultural integration and community relations in the traditionally quiet northern Thai town.

The case of the detained musicians remains under processing as immigration authorities prepare for their deportation. Officials emphasize that while Thailand welcomes tourists, working without proper permits carries serious consequences.

_________

Previous reports:

Thailand and China coordinate crackdown on scam centers

Thousands of workers employed by scam networks

Stories of Chinese trapped in Myanmar hurt Thailand’s reputation

Hot News

LATEST NEWS