TK Park Celebrates Love Across Generations This Valentine’s Season

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8 February 2025, 01:42

tk valentine1 — TK Park Transforms Into Valentine's Hub with Multi-Generation Activities

BANGKOK — Thailand Knowledge Park (TK Park) announces a comprehensive Valentine’s Day program throughout February 2025, featuring activities designed to celebrate love across all age groups and relationships.

The month-long celebration includes seven key events, headlined by “Timeless Love: Because We Never Grow Old,” featuring veteran actress Mae Daeng Noi and renowned barista Plearnpis Rianmek sharing their love stories from February 13-16.

tk valentine2 — Love & Learning: TK Park’s February Festival Features Games, Music & Stories

Board game enthusiasts can participate in “Where is the Love?” on February 9, offering relationship-themed games like Love Letter and Fog of Love. The same day, TK Park collaborates with the Institute of Board Game for Learning for “Designing Relationships,” exploring how board games translate to real-life experiences.

Digital initiatives include a curated “Read Before You Love” book collection and an article series on “The Language of Flowers,” exploring Victorian-era floral symbolism. For families, the Kids Room hosts storytelling sessions and creative workshops on February 15-16.

Music lovers with TK Park membership can borrow instruments free of charge from the Music Library for at-home serenades.

Located on CentralWorld’s 8th floor, TK Park offers various membership options, starting at 100 THB for youth. New visitors can experience the facilities through a three-visit e-Member pass via the MyTK app or purchase daily passes at 20 THB.

For more information about these Valentine’s Day activities and membership details, visit www.tkpark.or.th.

Thai Police Block Japanese Group’s Suspected Scammer Gang Entry

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Khaosod English

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7 February 2025, 23:54

BANGKOK — Four Japanese tourists had their Thai visas revoked after authorities suspected them of attempting to join a transnational scammer operation through the Myanmar border.

National Police Inspector General Pol. Gen. Tatchai Pitaneelaboot, who heads both the Anti-Human Trafficking Center and Technology Crime Prevention Center, reported the case on February 7.

The suspects arrived in Mae Sot, Tak province by van on January 31, 2025, staying at a hotel on Intarakeeree Road. The following day, they checked out and took a taxi to the Rim Moei Market near the First Thai-Myanmar Friendship Bridge around noon. After briefly browsing the market like typical tourists, they disappeared.

Earlier that day, a Myanmar national named Mai arrived from Myawaddy to collect the suspects’ luggage from their hotel and returned to Myanmar without passing through Thai customs.

Investigation revealed the four men have outstanding drug-related arrest warrants in Japan, according to information from the Japanese Embassy in Thailand. Though their Thai visas were valid until March 31, 2025, authorities revoked them due to their status as prohibited persons.

“These individuals are members of a criminal organization posing a threat to society and likely attempting to join call center scam operations,” said Pol. Gen. Tatchai. “We’ve blacklisted them from entering Thailand as part of our ongoing intensive efforts to combat transnational crime and scammer networks.”

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Robo Academy Sponsors Thailand Master 2025 Badminton

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MC Marketing

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7 February 2025, 17:49

On February 2, 2025, RoboAcademy (Thailand), led by Mr. Phoppasit Meesamanyont, Managing Director and Co-Founder of RoboAcademy (Thailand), attended the Princess Sirivannavari Thailand Masters 2025 badminton tournament.

The “Princess Sirivannavari Thailand Masters 2025” program is a World Tour Super 300 event with a total prize money of 240,000 USD or approximately 8,160,000 baht.and the Royal Trophy graciously bestowed by Her Royal Highness Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana Rajakanya. The competition took place at Nimibutr Stadium, National Stadium, Bangkok, from January 28 to February 2, 2025.

"Bass" Dechaphon Puavaranukroh and "Fame" Suphisara Puresampran won the Princess Sirivannavari Thailand Masters 2025 badminton mixed doubles championship. — “Bass” Dechaphon Puavaranukroh and “Fame” Suphisara Puresampran won the Princess Sirivannavari Thailand Masters 2025 badminton mixed doubles championship.

"Mew" Pornpawee Chochuwong wins the badminton women's singles championship at Princess Sirivannavari Thailand Masters 2025. — “Mew” Pornpawee Chochuwong wins the badminton women’s singles championship at Princess Sirivannavari Thailand Masters 2025.

In the “Princess Sirivannavari Thailand Masters 2025” final round on February 2, 2025, there are results for each category as follows.

Single men’s category

Tao Jiaheng Jason, the number 4 seed of the tournament and world number 30 from Singapore, defeated Wang Chengxin, the number 6 seed of the tournament and world number 39 from China, with a score of 2-1 games (21-18, 15-21, 21-19).

Single women’s category

Pornpawee Chochuwong, number 1 in the program and number 8 in the world, defeated Komang Ayu Jahya Devi, number 8 in the program and number 45 in the world from Indonesia, with a score of 2-1 games (18-21, 21-16, 21-13).

Men’s doubles category

Jin Yong and Seo Seung Jae, ranked 92nd in the world from South Korea, defeated Muhammad Shoheebul Fikri and Daniel Martin, ranked 2nd in the program and ranked 24th in the world from Indonesia, with a score of 2-0 games (21-18, 21-17).

Female double category

Lanny Tier Mayasari and Siti Fadia Silva Ramadanti, the 6th seed of the program and the 65th seed in the world from Indonesia, defeated Laksika Kallaha and Phathaimas Muanwong, the 4th seed of the program and the 17th seed in the world, with a score of 2-1 games (15-21, 21-13, 21-8).

Mixed doubles category

Dechaphon Puavaranukroh and Suphisara Puresampran, ranked 4th in the program and ranked 19th in the world, defeated Dejal Ferdinandshah and Siti Fadia Silva Ramadanti, ranked 213th in the world from Indonesia, with a score of 2-1 games (19-21, 21-17, 21-13).

The competition has been set up since January 28, 2025, qualifying round, January 29, 2025, round of 32, January 30, 2025, round of 16, January 31, 2025, quarter-finals, February 1, 2025, semi-finals. And until the last day, February 2, 2025, final round.

Mr. Phoppasit Meesamanyon, Managing Director and Co-Founder of Robo Academy (Thailand), said, “One of the visions of Robo Academy is to support sports for Thai athletes to further their dreams. Ready to build a reputation for the country Moreover, badminton is a popular sport among Thai people. Via Robo Academy Ready to fully support and promote and being an important part of being the main sponsor of this event because we recognize the talents of Thai badminton athletes that are evident in the eyes of the world. Many Thai badminton players are skilled. Is ranked number one in the world, coming to support badminton this time will help reflect on Thai badminton viewers. and will help encourage Thai people to want to turn to sports. and love each other’s health even more.”

RoboAcademy (Thailand) is committed to developing and disseminating investment knowledge to be widely accessible. They are preparing to move to a new location in the heart of the city at the One Bangkok project, Building 4, 15th floor. To enhance the learning experience It is scheduled to fully open in April. and also believes in spreading knowledge to various regions through the “RoboRoad Trip” project which is an academic seminar organized throughout the country It will help promote the potential of investors in a sustainable way. This project starts in Bangkok. and will travel to important provinces such as Ubon Ratchathani, Chiang Mai, Chonburi, Rayong, Phuket and Prachuap Khiri Khan.Those interested can follow additional details about the RoboRoad Trip project through the institute’s public relations channels.

For badminton fans who want to follow the details of the next competition schedule. You can see the information at www.badmintonthai.or.th/ or follow news about RoboAcademy’s support at the website. www.roboacademy.com

About RoboAcademy

RoboAcademy is an institution that provides complete investment knowledge in both capital and money markets. Covers both basic knowledge to professional trading strategies By highly experienced experts To lay the foundation for investment success With the slogan of the institute: Invest with Knowledge, Trade with Confidence. Invest with knowledge. To trade with confidence, More details can be viewed at the website. www.roboacademy.com , Line OA : https://lin.ee/U2wJicl (@RoboAcademy) , Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/RoboAcademyTH , Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/roboacademy.th , TikTok : tiktok.com/@roboacademy.th and YouTube : youtube.com/@RoboAcademyTH

Thailand Sets Six-Month Timeline for Myanmar Border Power Cut, Begins Review

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Khaosod English

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7 February 2025, 16:37

BANGKOK — The Thai government has set a six-month timeframe for its power cut measure along the Thai-Myanmar border, part of its crackdown on scam networks and drug-related crime. Officials will assess the situation’s progress during the first quarter, stating that Myanmar needs to act quickly if it wants to improve conditions.

Denies Checkpoint Closure Reports

On February 7, Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Phumtham Wechayachai denied reports that the Myanmar government had ordered the closure of the Tachileik checkpoint, opposite Mae Sai district in Chiang Rai province, in retaliation to Thailand’s power cut. He explained that such a closure would be counterproductive, effectively forcing Myanmar to impose hardship on itself. The Thai government confirmed prior consultation with Myanmar regarding the power cut.

Security agency sources clarified that rumors about the checkpoint closure originated from the Tachileik Immigration checkpoint’s inability to process passports due to power loss. However, they noted that any official checkpoint closure would require formal notification from Myanmar to Thai authorities, which had not occurred.

Tachileik city in Myanmar at night after Thailand cut electricity and internet supply since February 5, 2025. Latest update: Laos announced reduction of power supply to Tachileik from 30 to 13 megawatts on February 7.

5 Areas Affected by Power Cut

The measure, which began on February 5, affects five key sites: Ban Phra Chedi Sam Ong in Kanchanaburi province, which borders Payathonzu in Mon state; two towns in Chiang Rai province, which are connected to Tachileik in Shan state; and Mae Sot district in Tak province, which borders Myawaddy.

While the Defense Minister acknowledged some economic impact, he emphasized that combating crime was a priority given the national security threat. The delayed response was attributed to international relations and humanitarian concerns, particularly regarding hospitals in affected areas.

AP25036308083676 — File-General view Myawaddy district in eastern Myanmar, April 12, 2024. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit, File)

The implementation involved coordination across multiple agencies. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs informed the Myanmar government, while the Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA) notified contractors. The National Security Council, which categorized the matter as a national security threat, has made humanitarian preparations to accommodate emergency patients from Myawaddy in Mae Sot hospitals.

Internet disruptions in these areas, ongoing since 2023 but inconsistent, will be fully addressed by month’s end through coordination with the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC). Essential services will be adjusted based on local conditions.

Industry Leaders Support Government Action

Kriangkrai Thiannukul, chairman of the Confederation of Thai Industries and the Joint Standing Committee on Commerce, Industry and Banking, acknowledged potential minor industrial impacts but supported the measure. “Many countries are watching Thailand very closely at the moment. The government’s decisive action sends a strong signal that we will not tolerate illegal business and fraudulent activities. This move should help to mitigate the problem and show that laws and principles must be upheld. It will also boost the confidence of domestic and international investors,” he said.

Criminal Activities in Payathonzu

Security agencies report that Chinese crime syndicates have established businesses in Payathonzu, Mon State, including entertainment complexes, casinos, and fraudulent call centers. Approximately five to six such establishments are located about 100 meters from Ban Phra Chedi Sam Ong, with an estimated 30,000 Chinese nationals conducting business in Payathonzu, a number that continues to grow.

In response to these measures, the Democratic Karen Buddhist Army (DKBA) issued a statement on February 5 pledging cooperation with Thai authorities and the international community in combating human trafficking and abuse. The group committed to locating and repatriating trafficking victims at the request of Myanmar embassies or other diplomatic missions, and promised action against drug-related activities in areas under their control.

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Thai MP Faces Arrest Warrant Over Sexual Assault of Taiwanese Tourist

By

Khaosod English

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7 February 2025, 15:16

BANGKOK — Chaiyamphawan Manpianjit, a 35-year-old Bangkok MP, faces new and more serious sexual misconduct allegations as the Chiang Mai Provincial Court has issued an arrest warrant for allegedly raping a Taiwanese tourist. However, his arrest is complicated by parliamentary immunity during the legislative session.

On February 7, the Royal Thai Police submitted a letter to Parliament requesting permission to arrest MP Chaiyamphawan following the approved arrest warrant from Chiang Mai Police investigators. Reporters attempted to contact Chaiyamphawan, but he was unreachable. His assistant stated that the prominent MP is overseas and is not expected to attend today’s opposition party gathering.

The case stems from January 9, 2025, when a 25-year-old Taiwanese tourist, Miss C, filed a complaint with Chiang Mai City Police. She reported being raped by Chaiyamphawan after meeting him at a bar on Mun Muang Road in Sri Phum subdistrict around 2 a.m. According to her statement, after drinking together, he offered to escort her to her nearby accommodation where he allegedly sexually assaulted her while she was intoxicated.

“The victim reported to police that she did not consent. When a victim appears before police, we must investigate and gather evidence. The woman was sent for a medical examination, which confirmed signs of assault,” a Chiang Mai City Police officer revealed. Police collected evidence including medical results, witness statements, and CCTV footage before obtaining the arrest warrant dated February 4.

MP Chaiyamphawan — Chaiyamphawan Manpianjit, a 35-year-old Bangkok MP

Acting Police Lieutenant Apat Sukhanan, Secretary-General of the House of Representatives, explained that the request to arrest the MP must be approved by the House Speaker and included in the agenda. The matter is expected to be discussed in an urgent session on February 20, as next week’s February 13 joint parliamentary session cannot address this issue, which must be specifically handled by the House of Representatives.

This isn’t Chaiyamphawan’s first sexual misconduct controversy. The first-term MP, originally elected under the Move Forward Party in Bangkok’s Chomthong-Bang Khunthian district, was expelled from the party in 2023 following sexual harassment allegations from three women. He later joined the Thai Progressive Party, where he advocated for marriage equality and constitutional reform.

Thai Progressive Party leader Acting Sub Lt. Watcharaphon Busamongkol stated the party would give Chaiyamphawan an opportunity to explain before making any decisions following the police investigation.

Meanwhile, Pheu Thai Party MP Khattiya Sawasdiphol called for his immediate resignation, stating that such incidents should never occur with any politician and that parties should learn from this to improve their candidate selection process.

The Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Thailand confirmed that the Taiwanese victim has safely returned home. The office said it “has received information pertinent to this case through various channels” and expressed trust in Thailand’s judicial system. “We hope that the media refrain from disclosing the details of the case in order to respect and protect the privacy of the Taiwanese individual concerned,” the office added.

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Marriott Asia-Pacific (Excluding China) Signs Record 100+ Deals in 2024

By

Contributor

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7 February 2025, 15:04

With record annual deals and rooms signings, the company’s APEC region added over 21,000 rooms to its development pipeline in 2024, driven by strategic conversion and multi-unit agreement strategy

Marriott International’s 2024 milestone openings in Asia Pacific excluding China (APEC).

Clockwise from top left: 600th property in APEC, Adelaide Marriott Hotel; 150th property in India, Katra Marriott Resort & Spa; 50th property in Malaysia, Penang Marriott Complex; 100th property in Japan, Four Points Flex by Sheraton Osaka Umeda.

Download hi-res images and sizzle reel here

Singapore, 7 February 2025 – Marriott International, Inc. (Nasdaq: MAR) today announced another year of strong growth in the Asia Pacific excluding China (APEC) region, signing a record 109 deals across 11 markets, contributing 21,439 rooms to the region’s development pipeline, closing the year with 77,532 total rooms in the region’s year-end pipeline. The company continues to expand its portfolio in the region across market segments, including its debut in the midscale segment and its expansion of its luxury portfolio, reinforcing Marriott’s lead in the region’s evolving hospitality landscape.

“2024 was a record-breaking year for Marriott International in APEC, with exceptional growth driven by key development milestones, market expansions, and the introduction of new brands in sought-after destinations,” said Rajeev Menon, President, Asia Pacific excluding China, Marriott International. “As we continue to meet the evolving needs of modern travelers, APEC remains a pivotal region in our company’s growth strategy, reinforcing our position as a leader in the global hospitality industry.”

Accelerated Growth Across Segments

In 2024, Marriott signed 109 deals representing 21,439 rooms in APEC, bringing its regional pipeline to 363 properties and 77,532 rooms — a 12% year-over-year increase. India, Japan and Indonesia were the highest growth markets in the region, comprising 72% of the region’s deal signings in the year.

Growing the luxury portfolio in the region remains a key focus, accounting for 19% of signed deals in 2024. More than 20 agreements were signed representing 4,600 rooms in the region across six Marriott International Luxury Group brands, meeting the increasing demand from affluent travelers seeking high-end, experiential stays in both established and emerging destinations. This includes the expected debuts of EDITION in Jakarta, Indonesia, and Mumbai, India; The Ritz-Carlton in Jaipur and Udaipur, India; a second W Hotels in Singapore; and more.

Multi-unit agreements and conversion opportunities played a key role in the region’s pipeline growth, with conversions representing 36% of 2024 signings. Marking the company’s regional debut in the affordable midscale space, Marriott launched Four Points Flex by Sheraton in Japan, as part of a strategic multi-unit agreement with KKR to convert 14 properties across 10 cities in Japan. In November 2024, the brand celebrated its official debut in the region and the company’s 100th property in Japan with the opening of the Four Points Flex by Sheraton Osaka Umeda.

“As Marriott continues to expand its presence across APEC, we aim to continue broadening our portfolio of best-in-class brands and unforgettable experiences to meet the growing demand for travel,” said Shawn Hill, Chief Development Officer, Asia Pacific excluding China, Marriott International. “By enhancing our offerings and entering new markets, we’re not only aiming to deliver greater value to owners, franchisees and developers, but also adapting to the evolving needs of today’s travelers — across all stay purposes and experiences.”

Market Expansion and Brand Debuts

In 2024, Marriott entered new destinations and celebrated brand debuts in the region, centered around its growing traveler base. The company debuted in Papua New Guinea with the opening of Marriott Executive Apartments Port Moresby, increasing its operating presence to 22 countries and territories in APEC.

Following the brand’s success in Japan, South Korea and Australia, the lifestyle-focused Moxy Hotels brand also made its debut in key cities, including Moxy Bengaluru Prestige Tech Cloud in India, Moxy Putrajaya in Malaysia, and Moxy Bangkok Ratchaprasong in Thailand, catering to a new generation of travelers seeking vibrant and design-forward stays.

Celebrated Milestone Openings

Building on a record-breaking year of development and pipeline growth, the company also celebrated significant opening milestones in APEC, including:

600th property in APEC – Adelaide Marriott Hotel, Australia
150th property in India – Katra Marriott Resort & Spa
50th property in Malaysia – Penang Marriott Complex
100th property in Japan – Four Points Flex by Sheraton Osaka Umeda

With an expanding portfolio, Marriott International in APEC closed 2024 with 635 open properties across 25 brands in 22 countries and territories, underscoring its position as a hospitality leader in the region. As Marriott continues to expand its offerings, the breadth and depth of the company’s portfolio remains well-positioned to offer a compelling value proposition for developers and real estate investors.

To learn more about Marriott’s development opportunities and updates, visit https://www.hotel-development.marriott.com/

8 South Koreans Arrested for Illegal Teaching in Bangkok; Owner Charged

By

Khaosod English

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7 February 2025, 09:32

BANGKOK — Immigration authorities arrested eight South Korean nationals for teaching without work permits during a coordinated raid on two branches of a Korean language school in Bangkok on February 6, 2025.

The operation, led by Immigration Bureau 1 Commander Pol. Maj. Gen. Prasart Khemaprasit, targeted locations on Ratchadaphisek Road and in a prominent Bang Na shopping mall. The raids were conducted in collaboration with the Department of Employment as part of a nationwide crackdown on illegal foreign workers.

Authorities found the suspects — six men and two women — teaching Thai students in fully equipped classrooms. Most of the teachers had entered Thailand under the 90-day visa exemption program, while others were in the country through marriage to Thai nationals. None possessed valid work permits.

korean teach1 — Immigration police press charges against South Koreans who entered Thailand on tourist visas but were caught illegally working as language teachers on Feb 6, 2025.

The school’s Thai owner, identified only as Ms. Wipha, allegedly hired the South Koreans to conduct both online and in-person classes. Teachers reportedly earned 200 baht per hour for online classes and 350 baht for in-person instruction, with payments made in cash and via bank transfers. One teacher had been working illegally for over a year.

All eight teachers were charged with working without permits, while Ms. Wipha faces charges of illegally employing foreign workers. The offenses fall under the Emergency Decree on the Management of Foreign Workers’ Employment B.E. 2560 and its amendments.

“This successful operation resulted from public tip-offs and strong interagency cooperation,” said Pol. Maj. Gen. Prasart. He encouraged citizens to report similar cases through the Immigration Bureau’s hotline at 1178.

The raids are part of a broader enforcement initiative ordered by Immigration Bureau Commissioner Pol. Lt. Gen. Phanumas Boonyalak to crack down on illegal foreign workers throughout Thailand.

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Israeli Tourists Cause Disturbance at Pai Hospital, Face Deportation

By

Khaosod English

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6 February 2025, 23:20

Pai police officers question four Israeli tourists who caused disturbances at Pai Hospital in Mae Hong Son province on Feb. 5, 2025.

PAI — Four Israeli tourists were arrested and fined after causing disturbances at Pai Hospital in Mae Hong Son province, police reported on February 6. The incident gained attention after a doctor posted about recurring harassment issues on the “AggressiveDoctor” Facebook page.

“These tourists regularly smoke on hospital property, steal items, and have damaged our emergency room doors,” the doctor wrote on Feb. 4. “They’ve set up unauthorized driving schools despite having no licenses, leading to frequent accidents. When they do come for treatment, they often refuse basic medical procedures like blood tests and wound care, making it extremely difficult for our staff to help them.”

The post garnered significant public support, with many readers sharing similar experiences. Despite initial hesitation from local authorities concerned about tourism impact, the severity of the incidents prompted police investigation.

pai israel2 — Pai police officers escort four Israeli tourists to the police station for questioning following disturbances at Pai Hospital in Mae Hong Son province on Feb. 5, 2025.

The tourists, identified as Daniel, Aviv, Or, and Dan, allegedly intimidated medical personnel and attempted to enter restricted areas on February 2. After reviewing security footage that confirmed these violations, Pai police officers brought the four tourists to the police station. Each was fined 3,000 baht for harassment and causing public disturbance.

Police Lieutenant General Trairong Phiwphan, Commander of the Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau, investigated the incident following the viral social media post. Subsequently, Immigration Police Commander Lieutenant General Phanumas Boonyalak ordered the revocation of their permits and deportation on Feb. 6.

In response to the incident, Mae Hong Son Governor Ekkawit Meepian issued an open letter to international tourists visiting Pai district. The letter, titled “Welcome to Pai,” emphasizes responsible tourism and outlines guidelines covering cultural respect, legal compliance, social consideration, and environmental protection.

“We are delighted to welcome you and share our home with you,” wrote Governor Ekkawit, while stressing the importance of respecting local traditions and regulations. His guidelines ask visitors to honor local culture, follow laws, maintain the town’s tranquility, and protect its natural environment.

The case has highlighted tensions between some foreign tourists and local healthcare workers in the popular northern Thailand destination, prompting authorities to take stronger measures to ensure responsible tourism practices.

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Thailand Secures Southeast Asia’s First Jurassic World with BOI Support

By

Khaosod English

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6 February 2025, 20:56

Jurassic World3 — Jurassic World: The Experience

BANGKOK — Thailand’s Board of Investment (BOI) has approved investment support for Southeast Asia’s first Jurassic World: The Experience, a major tourist attraction worth $35.5 million.

Narit Therdsteerasukdi, secretary-general of Thailand’s Board of Investment (BOI), announced that the BOI’s project review sub-committee, authorized by the BOI board, has approved an application for investment support for the development of a major tourist attraction, Jurassic World: The Experience.

The project will be managed by Asset World Attractions and Retail Co, Ltd, a subsidiary of Asset World Corp Public Company Limited (AWC), a leading Thai real estate developer, with an investment value of more than 1.2 billion baht (approximately 35.5 million dollars).

Jurassic World2 — The press conference of Jurassic World: The Experience, in Bangkok, held at Asiatique The Riverfront Destination in December 2024.

The Jurassic World attraction in Thailand will span 4,000 square meters within Asiatique The Riverfront Destination, a premier lifestyle tourism destination on the Chao Phraya River. Asiatique is a well-known attraction for both domestic and international tourists and the new project is expected to establish itself as a landmark in Bangkok and Thailand.

This investment is a significant step towards the creation of a world-class tourism and entertainment hub by a Thai real estate company. Inspired by the world-renowned Jurassic World film series by Universal Pictures and Amblin Entertainment, the attraction will utilize cutting-edge technology and innovation to bring animatronic dinosaurs to life with realistic movements.

The experience will incorporate 3D design technology and computerized motion systems to provide an immersive and lifelike adventure. It is expected to attract visitors, especially dinosaur fans from all over the world. It offers a great entertainment experience, the first of its kind in Southeast Asia.

“The tourism sector is an important driver of the Thai economy and generates considerable revenue for the country. Last year alone, more than 35 million international tourists visited Thailand, contributing to revenues of over 1.67 trillion baht ($49 billion). To strengthen Thailand’s position as a regional tourism hub, we need to further develop tourism infrastructure, including training skilled workers, improving service quality, digital infrastructure, major international events, natural attractions and new man-made attractions that will further enhance the country’s appeal,” Narit said.

Over the past ten years (2015-2024), the BOI has funded 209 tourism-related projects with a total investment value of over 200 billion baht ($5.9 billion). These projects cover various sectors, including hotels, large convention centers, major tourist attractions, Thai art and cultural exhibition centers, international music and sporting events, festivals and amusement parks.

For the Jurassic World project, AWC is partnering with NEON, a global leader in immersive experiences and theme park attractions, and Universal Live Events & Location Based Entertainment.

The initiative is also supported by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) to position Thailand as a world-class sustainable tourism destination and a premier host for international events. The project is expected to boost the local economy by attracting a growing number of tourists from across the region.

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Icelandic Tourist’s Fall Exposes Pattaya Sidewalk Hazards

By

Khaosod English

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6 February 2025, 20:14

PATTAYA — An Icelandic tourist suffered facial injuries after stumbling into an uncovered drainage hole on a Central Pattaya sidewalk. The incident, which occurred at approximately 1:00 a.m. on February 6 along Pattaya 2nd Road, has highlighted the city’s unsafe public walkways.

Sawang Boriboon Rescue Foundation responded immediately after receiving reports of the accident. Rescue workers provided first aid to the injured tourist, who was bleeding from facial wounds, before transporting him to a local hospital.

At the scene, the tourist described tripping over a large uncovered drainage hole measuring approximately 1.5 by 1.5 meters. “The hole was concealed by garbage, rocks, and leaves,” he explained, noting the hazardous 10-centimeter raised edge that caused his fall.

iceland pattaya1 — An Icelandic tourist suffers facial injuries after stumbling into an uncovered drainage hole on a Central Pattaya sidewalk, Feb. 6, 2025.

Local residents claim this hazard has existed for years. “We’ve seen numerous tourists injured here,” one longtime resident said. They also identified additional dangers along the walkway, including two locations where removed light poles left exposed bolt studs protruding 3-5 centimeters from the ground.

The problem is compounded by narrow sidewalks frequently occupied by parked vehicles, forcing pedestrians onto the busy street. This creates additional risks, especially during peak traffic hours.

iceland pattaya3 — Dangerous bolt studs remain exposed on the walkway after light poles were removed.

While officials from the Pattaya Mayor’s office inspected the site later that morning, no immediate repairs were initiated. The question of which agency bears responsibility for addressing these safety hazards remains unanswered.

Local business owners and residents are calling for urgent action. “These conditions are damaging Pattaya’s reputation as a tourist destination,” a nearby shopkeeper stated. “We need these hazards fixed before someone gets seriously injured.”

The mayor’s office has indicated they will forward these concerns to relevant authorities, though no specific timeline for repairs has been established. Meanwhile, both tourists and locals continue to navigate these dangerous conditions daily.

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Denies Checkpoint Closure Reports

5 Areas Affected by Power Cut

Industry Leaders Support Government Action

Criminal Activities in Payathonzu

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