A vehicle is stuck against a barricade near the prime minister's office in Tokyo Saturday, Oct. 19, 2024. (Kyodo News via AP)
TOKYO (AP) — A man threw several firebombs into the headquarters of Japan’s ruling party in Tokyo Saturday, then crashed his car into the fencing of the prime minister’s residence, Tokyo police said. There were no reports of injuries.
The man, identified by police as Atsunobu Usuda, 49, was arrested on the spot on charges of obstructing the performance of official duties, although additional charges can be added later.
Although the motive for the attack was not immediately clear, Japanese media reports said social media posts believed to be Usuda’s showed him complaining about the sums of money required to run for office under Japanese law, implying Usuda had political ambitions.
The media reports also quoted unidentified sources as saying Usuda had taken part in protests against nuclear plants. Usuda was not immediately available for comment.
The ruling Liberal Democratic Party is increasingly unpopular with the public due to a ballooning money scandal involving dubious funding and suspected tax evasion. The party declined to comment on Saturday’s attack, referring all queries to the police.
Police officers work near a vehicle, center, which was stuck against a barricade near the prime minister’s office, background, in Tokyo Saturday, Oct. 19, 2024. (Kyodo News via AP)Police vehicles park near the headquarters of Japan’s ruling Liberal Democratic Party in Tokyo after a man threw firebombs into the headquarters Saturday, Oct. 19, 2024. (Kyodo News via AP)
Voting for the lower house of Parliament is set for Oct. 27. Some tarnished politicians lost the official backing of the ruling party but are running as independents.
The party recently chose a new leader, Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, hoping to present a new image. But polls show its popularity plummeting, although it’s still unclear whether they will lose their majority grip on the lower house in the upcoming election given the splintered opposition.
Some candidates have been heckled, which is relatively rare in Japanese culture.
The Liberal Democrats have ruled Japan almost continuously over recent decades. They are credited with leading Japan as it became an economic powerhouse from the devastation of World War II.
Then-Prime Minister Shinzo Abe was assassinated in 2022, while making a speech for a ruling party candidate during a parliamentary election. The killer used a handmade firearm, saying he resented Abe because his mother gave all the family money to the Unification Church, and he saw Abe as affiliated with that church. Such ties are still ongoing with some ruling party politicians.
Police have cordoned off the area where two Rohingya bodies were discovered in Moo 4, Wang Tako Subdistrict, Lang Suan District, Chumphon Province on October 17, 2024.
CHUMPHON — The tragic fate of Rohingya migrants fleeing from Myanmar’s Rakhine State periodically unfolds in various parts of Southeast Asia, including Thailand. In the latest incident, 26 Rohingya were smuggled by human traffickers in an enclosed pickup truck and hidden in a forest in Chumphon Province. Three of them died of suffocation.
Monks from Wat Sekharam discovered them on the morning of October 17. Each person was in a weakened state, some convulsing and struggling near death due to lack of oxygen from sitting in the nearly airless truck over a long distance.
The thicket where they were found is located near the foot of Wat Sekharam mountain, along Laem Sai Road, Moo 4, Wang Tako Subdistrict, Lang Suan District, Chumphon Province, about 2 kilometers from Petchkasem Road.
Monks walk past the area where 26 Rohingya, who illegally entered Thailand, were found abandoned in a thicket in Moo 4, Wang Tako Subdistrict, Lang Suan District, Chumphon Province on October 17, 2024.
When the monks alerted the police who came to investigate, they found two Rohingya had already died, with another passing away at the hospital, totaling 3 fatalities. Six others were in a coma, one had improved and was out of danger, while the remaining 16 were safe.
Subsequently, police gathered evidence from CCTV footage and obtained arrest warrants for 3 suspects from the Lang Suan Provincial Court.
On October 18, Lang Suan Police tracked down and arrested two suspects: Mr. Pitak, age 30, from Ratchaburi Province, the truck driver, and Mr. Seksun, age 21, from Samut Prakan Province, the guide vehicle driver. They were apprehended on Petchkasem Road, Khao Yai Subdistrict, Cha-am District, Phetchaburi Province at 00:20 a.m.
Police have cordoned off the area where two Rohingya bodies were discovered in Moo 4, Wang Tako Subdistrict, Lang Suan District, Chumphon Province on October 17, 2024.
Officials seized two Isuzu enclosed pickup truck: a blue one with Samut Songkhram license plates that carried the Rohingya, and a gray one with Nong Khai license plates used as the guide vehicle, as evidence for prosecution.
Afterwards, officers from Lang Suan Police Station, Chumphon Provincial Police, and Region 8 Investigation team jointly interrogated the two suspects to expand the investigation into the transnational labor trafficking network and further questioned the 16 Rohingya who were safely rescued.
The investigation revealed that the transnational human trafficking gang operates as a large network, starting with the movement within Myanmar. All the foreigners were brought from Rakhine State, traveled to Yangon and Lemang, then stayed at a warehouse in Myawaddy.
Officials seize two box truck pickups as evidence for prosecution.
Subsequently, soldiers from the Border Guard Force of ethnic minorities under Myanmar’s military would transport them in military vehicles near the border in Mae Sot District, Tak Province, before smuggling them into Thailand for further transit to Malaysia. The entire process takes nearly a month, with more than 300 migrants still waiting to cross into Thailand.
These foreigners pay 10 million kyat per person, divided into two installments. The first 5 million kyat is paid when Myanmar citizens reach the Thai-Malaysian border in southern Thailand. Relatives will pay the remaining 5 million kyat, totaling approximately 150,000 Thai baht ($4500).
Mr. Huseng Hammad, a 28-year-old Myanmar interpreter, revealed that upon questioning the Rohingya, they all said they were from Rakhine State, Myanmar, where there is ongoing conflict. This has led them to seek a new life in Malaysia, where they have relatives, in hopes of finding employment and improving their lives.
Officials and an interpreter meet with Rohingya who survived the journey in the enclosed pickup truck to gather information, after three members of their group died on October 18, 2024.
Relatives in Malaysia had contacted Rohingya brokers in Malaysia, who then coordinated with brokers in Myanmar to arrange the smuggling of workers from Myanmar to Malaysia.
Mr. Huseng stated that after relatives in Malaysia had made all the arrangements, everyone gathered at a designated point in Rakhine State before starting their journey in Myanmar. They then took a long-tail boat to cross into Thailand, which took about 5 minutes, followed by a trek along natural paths.
Afterwards, they boarded an enclosed pickup truck, filling it with 26 people. A similar pickup truck led the way. They traveled for 4-5 hours before changing vehicles using the same method. They continued for another 4-6 hours before changing vehicles again.
Officials interrogate two Thai suspects involved in the operation to transport Rohingya from Myanmar to Malaysia. Three Rohingya died from suffocation in the box truck pickup on October 18, 2024.
The interpreter said that the box truck pickup seized by the police was the third vehicle change. During the journey, the Rohingya became exhausted and started showing signs of distress due to difficulty breathing.
They began banging on the box truck pickup, forcing the driver to stop. Ten people were moved to another vehicle, and they continued their journey for a short while before stopping and returning to the original vehicle.
“Shortly after, two people fainted and died. Everyone then kicked and banged on the back door until it almost opened. Seeing the situation deteriorate, the driver stopped and opened the door to find everyone collapsing and piling up in the truck bed. The driver then asked those who still had strength to help drag everyone out before driving away, leaving only a few bottles of water and snacks,” the interpreter recounted the events as told by the surviving Rohingya.
Currently, the police are still pursuing the third suspect.
MHESI Declares Readiness for Thailand Space Week 2024, Gathering Space Agencies from Around the Globe to Link “Space-Opportunities.” Supamas Highlights the Event as a National Priority, Positioning Thailand as the ASEAN Hub for Space Technology Development and Economic Growth. The Event is Set for November 7-9 at Impact Muang Thong Thani.
On Thursday, October 17, 2024, the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research, and Innovation (MHESI), through the Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA), held a press conference for Thailand Space Week 2024, under the theme “Converging Technologies, Connecting People,” at Eastin Grand Hotel Phayathai, Bangkok. The event, organized in partnership with leading organizations such as the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand, Siemens, Thaicom, PTT Public Company Limited, iSpace, the Cabinet Office of Japan, and more than 30 other agencies from both domestic and international spheres, aims to serve as a platform that connects cutting-edge technology with people. It will also provide updates on the latest space trends and the practical applications of space technology today. As the largest space-related event in Southeast Asia, Thailand Space Week is expected to draw significant attention.
The event was formally opened by Supamas Isarabhakdi, Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research, and Innovation, who emphasized the significance of the gathering.
In her speech, Supamas Isarabhakdi, Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research, and Innovation (MHESI), stated that Thailand Space Week 2024 is a key national event under the government’s policy framework to promote the development of new economies, particularly within high-tech industries such as space technology, alongside other related sectors. This policy also includes research and development aimed at advancing national technologies and innovations, acting as a driving force for economic growth and enhancing the nation’s global competitiveness. MHESI is committed to making Thailand Space Week an event that both Thai and international attendees eagerly anticipate each year, much like the International Astronautical Congress (IAC) or World Space Week.
Minister Supamas further added that the event will feature a variety of beneficial activities, including keynote speeches by top-tier speakers, exhibitions from government and private space sectors, and business matchmaking sessions. These activities are designed to create cooperation between governments, international space agencies, policymakers, experts, and business leaders from around the world. The goal is to highlight Thailand’s role as a central hub for space-related businesses and technologies, creating opportunities and benefits for the region.
“MHESI, as the main ministry overseeing the country’s space technology agencies, intends to leverage Thailand Space Week 2024 as a platform to strengthen collaboration networks with government and private sector partners, as well as academic institutions, both domestically and internationally. This will pave the way for Thailand to emerge as a global leader in space technology and innovation in the future,” Supamas stated.
Dr. Pakorn Apaphant, Director of GISTDA, remarked that Thailand Space Week 2024 will showcase the future trends of space technology and their role in driving social and economic growth across Southeast Asia. The event will connect advanced technologies with entrepreneurs and major players in the global space industry, enabling discussions and exchanges with space leaders, experts, business professionals, and investors. The aim is to share experiences, exchange knowledge, and foster joint business development, ultimately positioning Thailand as the gateway that connects space and opportunities from across the globe. This year’s event is expected to attract over 4,000 attendees, including representatives from government, the private sector, state enterprises, entrepreneurs, investors, academic institutions, and space technology enthusiasts from both Thailand and abroad.
A key highlight of the event will be the keynote addresses by prominent speakers who will share their insights across various dimensions, including policy, business, and technology. Topics will encompass space exploration, satellite technology, space infrastructure, and applications. Additionally, the event will feature exhibitions on space technologies, demonstrating advancements in cutting-edge technologies, and Business Matching sessions, which will provide participants with an opportunity to build networks with global space industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and startups. The event is well-suited for those seeking partners in space technology ventures.
Dr. Pakorn further emphasized that Thailand Space Week 2024 is set to become a premier destination for global space industry participants, and it is poised to become a key economic driver, elevating Thailand’s space technology sector to compete
Thousands of workers and employers, representing 24 Thai subcontracting companies, march and submit a petition demanding payment from the CFP main contractors in Sriracha district, Chonburi Province on October 18, 2024.
CHONBURI — Over 3,000 workers and employers, representing 24 Thai subcontracting companies, gathered to march and submit a petition demanding payment from the foreign main contractors of the Clean Fuel Project.
The Federation of TOP Refinery Contractors for the Clean Fuel Project (CFP), an oil refinery in Sriracha district, Chonburi province, organized a march on October 18. Formed by 24 Thai subcontracting companies with over 3,000 employers and workers, they aimed to submit a letter to the CFP project executives and the Governor of Chonburi Province. The letter urged pressure on UJV – Samsung, Petrofac, and Saipem, the main contractors, to pay overdue installments
Previously, on October 15, the Federation of TOP Refinery Contractors, formed by 16 Thai subcontracting companies, held a press conference demanding that Thai Oil, the owner of the CFP project, clarify how they will proceed in case subcontractors can no longer take care of workers due to not receiving payments for over 6 months.
Thai Oil Issued Statement
On October 16, Thai Oil Public Company Limited issued a statement explaining that the company has already paid compensation to UJV – Samsung, Petrofac, and Saipem, the main contractors for the CFP project construction, according to the conditions specified in the Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) contract.
Upon learning about the Federation of TOP Refinery Contractors’ press conference regarding their demands, Thai Oil sent inquiry letters to UJV – Samsung, Petrofac, and Saipem, and UJV’s parent company. UJV confirmed that they will continue to pay the overdue compensation according to the subcontract conditions and requested Thai Oil not to interfere with subcontractors, as Thai Oil is not a party to these subcontracts.
“Thai Oil has consistently adhered to good governance principles for transparent business operations with all stakeholders and is aware of the hardships faced by subcontracting companies. We will make every effort to consult with UJV – Samsung, Petrofac, and Saipem to follow up and inquire about management measures and alleviating the hardships for subcontracting companies as soon as possible,” the statement said.
Workers and employers, representing 24 Thai subcontracting companies, march to submit a petition demanding payment from the CFP main contractors in Sriracha district, Chonburi Province on October 18, 2024.
20,000 Workers Are at Risk
Regarding the march by employers and workers of the TOP Refinery Contractors Federation on Friday, they stated that they are facing severe problems due to foreign main contractors delaying construction payments. Despite subcontractors having completed work as per contracts since February 2024, totaling several billion baht, this has severely impacted the financial liquidity of over 100 subcontracting companies and 20,000 workers.
Moreover, some subcontractors have had to continue working without compensation to avoid being sued for damages, leading to prolonged liquidity issues without adequate remediation or assistance from relevant parties.
This delay in construction payments has caused widespread severe impacts on the country’s energy security. As the oil refinery construction project is crucial for strengthening national energy security, any delay or disruption directly affects long-term energy development plans. It also severely impacts the livelihoods of thousands of workers and their families who have been or are about to be laid off.
The CFP project is considered the first large-scale private sector investment project within the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) area.
“This situation may lead to widespread social problems such as increased crime or mental health issues in communities. It also affects confidence in project owners in Thailand, severely damaging the image and credibility of large-scale national project owners, in which the Ministry of Finance indirectly holds top-ranking shares, potentially causing long-term future impacts,” TOP Refinery Contractors Federation stated
The Federation also called on the government and indirect shareholders of the project owner to find more effective ways to alleviate hardships and protect the interests of all parties to support the project’s continuation.
First Large-scale Project in EEC
The Clean Fuel Project has a total project value of $4.825 billion. The project owner, Thai Oil Public Company Limited, held a foundation stone laying ceremony for the main production control building of CFP in 2020 at the Thai Oil refinery in Sriracha district, Chonburi province. The then Minister of Energy, Mr. Sontirat Sontijirawong, presided over the ceremony.
Thai Oil Public Company Limited holds a foundation stone laying ceremony for the main production control building of the Clean Fuel Project (CFP), with Mr. Sontirat Sontijirawong, Minister of Energy, presiding over the event on March 5, 2020.
Thai Oil stated that the CFP project enhances the refinery’s competitiveness by expanding refining capacity from 275,000 barrels per day to 400,000 barrels per day, creating economies of scale, reducing production costs, increasing flexibility in crude oil reception, allowing the refinery to increase the proportion of Heavy Crude by 40-50%, and adding value to products by converting fuel oil into aviation fuel and diesel. It also enables the production of Euro 5 standard gasoline and diesel.
The CFP project is considered the first large-scale private sector investment project within the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) area. It was originally scheduled to be completed in 2023, but due to the severe impact of the pandemic in 2021-2022, construction has been delayed until now.
FILE - Peoples leave the Bangkok Criminal Court in Bangkok, Thailand, on Sept. 30, 2024. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit, File)
DAVID RISING, BANGKOK — A group of nearly three dozen rights groups called on Thailand’s prime minister Friday to release a Vietnamese activist who has been ordered extradited home to face imprisonment on terrorism charges, saying he faces the possibility of torture if returned.
Y Quynh Bdap, who has United Nations refugee status in Thailand, was picked up by Thai authorities on a Vietnamese warrant in June as he was seeking to be granted asylum in Canada and is being held in Bangkok pending extradition.
In the letter sent to Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra well as other Thai officials and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, Amnesty International and 32 other rights groups suggested Bdap “faces a real risk of torture, prolonged arbitrary detention or other grave human rights violations” if he is returned to Vietnam.
Paetongtarn’s spokesperson Jirayu Houngsub said the prime minister’s office had not yet received the letter and that he had no immediate comment.
Bdap is the co-founder of the Montagnards Stand for Justice group. He fled to Thailand in 2018 to escape persecution in Vietnam, which has been long criticized for its treatment of the country’s predominantly Christian Montagnard minority.
His group advocated for Montagnards’ religious and other rights, training them in international and Vietnamese law and how to document abuses, which the NGOs said made him a target of the Vietnamese government.
Y Quynh Bdap / Amnesty International
The 32-year-old was convicted in absentia in Vietnam in January of terrorism and sentenced to 10 years in prison on allegations that he was involved in organizing anti-government riots in Vietnam’s central highland province of Dak Lak last year.
A Bangkok court in September ordered his extradition, and his appeal of that ruling is still pending.
Bdap went into hiding in Thailand after he was alerted that Vietnamese authorities were making inquires about him earlier this year, and released a video shortly before he was apprehended saying he had “absolutely nothing to do with that violent incident.”
“I am a human rights activist fighting for religious freedom and advocating for people’s rights,” he said. “My activities are peaceful, consisting only of collecting and writing reports on human rights violations in Vietnam.”
In the January court case in Vietnam, about 100 others were also tried for alleged involvement in riots at two district government offices in which nine people were killed, including four police officers and two government officials. Fifty-three were convicted on charges of “terrorism against the people’s government,” state-run Vietnam News reported.
Days after the verdicts, Vietnamese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Pham Thu Hang rejected criticism that Vietnam had used the trial as an opportunity to crack down on ethnic minorities, saying the government needed to “strictly deal with terrorism according to international law.”
“All ethnicities living in a territory of Vietnam are equal,” she said.
In the joint letter, the NGOs underscored that U.N. rights experts have expressed concerns that the trial may have been politically motivated — pointing out Bdap was in Thailand when the alleged crimes in Vietnam were committed — and did not meet fair trial guarantees.
They also noted that Thailand has just been voted into a three-year term on the U.N. Human Rights Council for a three-year term starting Jan. 1.
“Being elected to the U.N. Human Rights Council comes with serious responsibilities to implement policies and actions to respect human rights,” said Prakaidao Phurksakasemsuk of the Cross Cultural Foundation, which was one of the groups that sent the letter.
“What happens to Y Quynh Bdap is a test case of that Thai commitment, and the prime minister should do the right thing and order that he be allowed to safely resettle with his family to a third country where he can receive protection.”
Phil Robertson, director of the Asia Human Rights and Labor Advocates group, which also signed the letter, said Bdap should be freed on bail while his appeal is pending to be reunited with his wife and three young children.
“There is absolutely no sufficient reason to hold a refugee father in detention, away from his children, and subject him to continued suffering based on bogus accusations and politically motivated claims being pressed by Vietnam’s authoritarian government,” Robertson said.
Suntory Beverage & Food (Thailand) Co., Ltd., The leading supplier of health supplements under BRAND’S® in Thailand and Asia, has developed a smart idea to encourage Thais to “transform routine days into memorable ones” by presenting gifts to those in their immediate vicinity and expressing thanks, love, and support on a daily basis with #GiveBrandsFromYourHeartEveryDay with Brand’s Veta and Brand’s Bird’s Nest giftboxes. In order to create things that will uplift both “giver and receiver”, a renowned illustrator “Ang – Viput Asavavetwut” also known as Viput A, has been invited to design product packages using vibrant lines. Giving gift can “happen every day” as it has done for the first time thanks to “Brand’s”. You can have a “good day” on any day; you don’ have to wait for a particular event.
According to Chaturaporn Thanaponsangsut, Vice President of Marketing, Thailand and Indochina, Suntory Beverage & Food (Thailand) Limited, the majority of Thai people typically exchange gifts with one another on special occasions, based on data from a customer study. Furthermore, the majority of Thais are afraid to reveal their genuine emotions. Thus, “Brand’s would like to encourage Thais express their emotions to those in their immediate vicinity without waiting for a special occasion by providing a special gift set called #GiveBrandsFromYourHeartEveryday. For the first time, Brand’s has made it feasible to give gifts on a daily basis without waiting for a specific occasion. The well-known illustrator Ang Viput Asavavetwut also known as Viput A., created the product for this present delivery with the motto “Give Brand From Your Heart Everyday” to show love, care, appreciation, and encouragement between the giver and the receiver, transforming “ordinary days” into “special days”.
The #GiveBrandsToHeartEveryDay gift set has three distinct themes, each with unique color and pattern designs to express the giver’s message to the receiver.
Theme: “Cheer Up” and “Positive Support Is Always Available” The idea behind this illustration is to show the power that can be given from one person to another, like giving someone a supportive embrace or a helping hand when they are struggling. It stands for perseverance. And last, another strength that keeps us going through disappointing situations is having someone by your side to support you when you’re feeling down, as a gift set of three bottles of Brand’s Veta Fiber Prune, retailing for 315 baht.
Theme: “Love and Care” and “Always Be There for You” The pattern uses an image of a warm embrace in the middle of an environment full of love and care for one another to communicate a message of love that is full of tenderness and care, with understanding and support for each other. Customers are able to experience the tenderness and meaning of love via the characters’ eyes, which show their profound link and affection via the gift set of Brand’s Veta Vitamin A Berry, priced at 315 baht, and Brand’s Bird’s Nest, three bottles, priced at 598 baht.
Theme: “Thank You” and “Thank You For Being Here” The act of expressing thanks with warmth, restrained expressions, and a genuine grin served as the model for this illustration. This illustration symbolizes helping each other, such as giving small gifts that are meaningful or reaching out to help in times of need. It also uses symbols of a good relationship, like a tight handshake or giving a small gift full of sincerity with a gift set of Brand’s Vita Fiber Prune and Brand’s Veta Vitamin A Berry, three bottles, priced at 315 baht.
Those who are interested can purchase this unique gift right now from reputable department stores and shops including Lotus, Big C, Family Mart, Lawson and CJ Express as well as online through the official store on Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok.
Charoen Pokphand Foods Public Company Limited (CP Foods) proudly announces that its Pak Thong Chai and Sriracha feed mill have received the Global G.A.P. certification from Control Union (Thailand). CP Foods is the first organization in Thailand to achieve this prestigious certification, underscoring its world-class production processes and management standards in quality, feed safety, environmental, social, and governance (ESG) aspects.
Rewat Hathaisattayapong, Head of Feed Business at CP Foods, stated, “CP Foods is committed to producing food with the highest safety standards, starting from the production of safe animal feed. By adopting internationally recognized standards, we have built confidence in our quality, safety, and ESG practices. This commitment has led to the successful certification of our two feed production plants, Pak Thong Chai and Sriracha, making us the first in Thailand to receive the Global G.A.P. (Global Good Agricultural Practice) certification. We hope to serve as a model for CP Foods’ other feed production plants and those of other companies.”
“Receiving the Global G.A.P. certification is a collective success for CP Foods’ management and all employees who have collaborated to produce livestock feed that meets international safety standards and is fully traceable,” Mr. Rewat continued. “Our dedication to environmental stewardship, social responsibility, and good governance propels CP Foods towards sustainability and strengthens our position in the global market. Simultaneously, we aim to share our knowledge and success stories through various channels to elevate Thailand’s food safety standards.”
Stephan Moreels, Managing Director of Control Union (Thailand), congratulated CP Foods on this significant achievement. “CP Foods’ certification under the Global G.A.P. Compound Feed Manufacturing (CFM) version 3.1 section C (ESG) emphasizes sustainable energy and environmental practices, fair working conditions, respect for labor rights, and engagement with local communities. As a partner who has worked closely with CP Foods to promote this standard, we recognize the hard work and vision that have led the company to success. Despite facing challenges, CP Foods has transformed obstacles into opportunities, and this dedication truly exemplifies the company’s identity and leadership.”
“Global G.A.P. is a long-standing sustainability standard recognized internationally,” Mr. Moreels added. “CP Foods’ journey is truly impressive. The company consistently practices quality and safe animal feed production, along with a commitment to sustainability in all aspects. I commend the team behind this success; their collaboration, innovation, and dedication to their goals have genuinely made a positive impact on Thailand’s animal feed production industry.”
The Global G.A.P. standard focuses on prevention and control at every step of production—from selecting high-quality, safe raw materials to utilizing modern technology and ensuring traceability. This guarantees that animal feed produced at CP Foods’ factories is safe and of the highest quality before being delivered to livestock farms and customers, ensuring the safety of animal feed and livestock product consumers. Today, both partners and consumers place significant importance on ESG, aligning with CP Foods’ ongoing commitment to operating under the ESG framework.
CP Foods initiated the ISO 9001 quality standard system in animal feed production in 2000 and has continuously worked to elevate feed standard systems to comply with government regulations and the requirements of trading partner countries, ultimately resulting in safe food for consumers.
Family of Nisant Meeram, 42, the Thai worker who died in the north of Israel, met with officials from Krasang district and the Buriram Provincial Labour Office on October 18, 2024.
BURIRAM — The family is preparing to receive the body of a Thai worker killed by an unexploded grenade in an apple orchard in Israel and will hold a religious ceremony in his hometown in Buriram province on Oct. 22. The wife revealed that amidst her grief, scammers have been calling to deceive her, attempting to exploit her family’s situation.
On October 18, Ms. Sakorn Meeram, 70, and Ms. Pruksa Meeram, 43, the mother and wife of Nisant Meeram, 42, the Thai worker who was killed by an anti-tank missile in northern Israel on October 11, met with officials to discuss preparations for the transfer of Nisant’s body for the religious ceremony in his hometown in Kanthararom Sub-district, Krasang District, Buriram Province.
They were informed by his employer that the Israeli authorities would send the body back to Thailand on October 22, 2024.
Both women also filed documents with the Buriram Provincial District Office and Buriram Provincial Labor Office to claim compensation and benefits as legal heirs after Nisant died while working in Israel amid the ongoing conflict.
Nisant Meeram, 42, a Thai worker employed in an apple orchard in Israel, was killed by an anti-tank missile in the Yir’on agricultural settlement in northern Israel near the Lebanese border on October 11, 2024.
Ms. Sakorn expressed her grief over the loss of her son, saying he had chosen to work abroad to support his family. She said she prayed every night for his safety and never thought she would lose her beloved child.
“I miss him and feel deeply for him. The least I can do now is say thank you for him,” she said. She added that the family would perform religious rituals upon his return to his hometown.
Mrs. Pruksa said that her husband had an agricultural labor contract to work in Israel for 5 years and 3 months. However, towards the end of last year, fighting broke out between Israel and Hamas, causing her husband to return to Thailand for 7 months. He then went back to work in Israel in June to complete his contract, as they still had over 1 million baht in debt.
Before the incident, she said they chatted normally. But from the afternoon until the evening of October 11, she couldn’t contact him. Around 7 p.m., a Thai worker in Israel messaged her on Facebook and made a video call to deliver the tragic news.
After learning of her husband’s death, the family was devastated and wanted to bring his body back for a proper religious ceremony according to their traditions. They had waited over a week and Nisant’s employer in Israel had contacted them directly to offer condolences and take full responsibility for the incident.
She explained that after losing her husband, she now had to raise two children, look after her 70-year-old mother-in-law and manage debts of over 1 million baht. Despite the emotional strain, she said she had to stay strong.
Ms. Pruksa also pointed out that in the midst of their grief, the family must be wary of scammers trying to take advantage of the situation for their personal gain. She urged those who harbor ill intentions to stop taking advantage of grieving families, calling it an act of cruelty to those who are already suffering.
Officials from the Buriram Provincial Social Security Office and local authorities from Krasang district visited the family of Nisant Meeram, 42, to offer condolences and support at their home in Ban Ka-long, Moo 8, Kanthararom sub-district, Krasang district, Buriram province, on October 12, 2024.
The Ministry of Labor began sending Thai workers back to Israel in late June 2024. Nisant Meeram, 42, was the first Thai worker who died in the fighting between the Israeli army and the Hezbollah armed group in Lebanon in 2024, which escalated from the Israel-Hamas war.
Approximately 30,000 Thai citizens were residing in Israel, with about 5,000 workers employed in agricultural areas near the Gaza Strip, a conflict zone. Since the outbreak of war following Hamas’ attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, the government has evacuated over 7,000 Thais back to Thailand. At least 41 Thai workers have died, and 6-8 were believed to be held hostage.
However, on October 18, 2024, Muk Sulaiman, Secretary to the President of the House of Representatives, who previously represented the Parliament President in negotiations to assist Thais in Israel, stated that no Thai people were currently being held hostage by Hamas. Regarding the 8 individuals previously believed to be missing, he said their whereabouts were unknown but confirmed they were definitely not in Hamas custody.
On October 17, 2024 at 09:15, H.E. Varawut Silpa-archa, Minister of Social Development and Human Security presided over the opening of the National Academic Seminar on “Transforming Industrial Businesses with AI and Carbon Credit Management for a Sustainable Future.” He delivered a special lecture on “Directions for Industrial Business Development to Secure a Sustainable Future.”
Prof. Dr. Teravuti Boonyasopon, Chairman of KMUTNB Council Committee gave a warm welcome to H.E. the Minister. Prof. Dr. -Ing. habil. Suchart Siengchin, KMUTNB President delivered a welcome speech and Acting Sub. Lieutenant Sanon Boonmee, Chairperson of the seminar organizing committee gave a report on the activities.
The academic seminar was attended by distinguished guests, H.E. Anukul Peedkaew, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Social Development and Human Security along with the Ministry’s executives and the University administrators.
Notable speakers were invited from different business sectors, including Dr. Rassarin Chinnachodteeranun, the CEO and co-founder of ListenField; Mr. Jirayut Srupsrisopa, the founder and CEO of Bitkub Capital Group Holdings; and Ms. Kulpornpath Wongmajarapinya, CEO ofThai Smile Bus.
Organized by Faculty of Business and Industrial Development’s doctoral students, the national seminar was held both online and onsite at KMUTNB’s Bencharat Hall, Nawamintharachini Building.
The overall aim of the event is to provide an opportunity for student and new entrepreneurs to develop their potential, so they become well-prepared for sustainability practices in business operations, thus contributing to business efficiency and sustainable competitive advantages.
The seminar focuses on raising public awareness about the use of AI in the enterprise for various purposes, such as to improve efficiency and productivity, to boost effective data management, AI roles in marketing analytics and in streamlining carbon credit management to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The seminar embraces eco-friendly movements for a greener future and business sustainability.
The academic seminar offers an opportunity for attendees to engage with industry experts and successful entrepreneurs for knowledge exchange and entrepreneur skill expansion. The activities help create networks and introduce new perspectives on Thailand’s industrial development initiatives, with the aim of enhancing international competitiveness of Thai industries.
This event, attended by more than 350 participants on-site and virtually, served as an inspirational platform for businesses to be better prepared for global trends and future uncertainties.
Police officers escort Boss Paul, Waratpol Waratworakul, the main suspect in The Icon Group case from the Central Investigation Bureau to the Ratchada Criminal Court on October 18, 2024.
BANGKOK — The case against the “bosses” of The iCon Group, an online direct sales business, who are being prosecuted for public fraud and inputting false information into computer systems, has expanded to include foreign victims in addition to Thai victims. Meanwhile, ‘Boss Paul,’ the main suspect in the case, is going to be imprisoned following the 17 bosses.
On October 17, Ms. Chalida Palamat, the president of the Pen-nueng Foundation, brought victims of investment fraud by The iCon Company to file a complaint with the Central Investigation Bureau. Among the victims were two expats: a Swedish national and a Cambodian national, who had lost over 200,000 baht in investments.
Mr. Okan, a 64-year-old Swedish national, revealed that he learned about The iCon through his brother, who recommended investing. Initially, he thought the company had a good image, with many franchises and apparent camaraderie among company members from top to bottom. This led him to trust the company and invest 200,000 baht. However, after investing, he received nothing in return, not even the promised products.
Ms. Chalida Palamat, the president of the Pen-nueng Foundation, brought victims of investment fraud by The iCon Company to file a complaint with the Central Investigation Bureau on October 17, 2024.
The Swedish man stated that for him, this amount of money wasn’t substantial, but for some people, it was a significant sum. He decided to file a complaint today because he wanted justice for the victims.
Ms. Jinny, a 42-year-old Cambodian national, shared that in 2022, during the COVID period, she was looking for courses to supplement her income. She found an online sales course by The iCon, priced at only 97 baht, and decided to enroll. The first 1-2 days taught sales methods.
However, on days 3-4, various bosses came to talk, including “Boss Suay” Natpasorn Chatthanasorn, who encouraged investment in The iCon business, presenting various attractive propositions promising success. Believing it to be credible, she decided to open one dealership for 250,000 baht.
Furthermore, The iCon expanded into the Cambodian market in 2024, with various bosses, including actor bosses, attending the event. It’s estimated that no fewer than 1,000 Cambodians participated, likely resulting in massive losses.
Police officers escort 17 suspects in The Icon Group case from the Central Investigation Bureau to the Ratchada Criminal Court on October 17, 2024. The court denied bail for all suspects.
On October 18, “Boss Paul” Waratpol Waratworakul, the main suspect in the case and the founder and CEO of The iCon Group, is going to be taken into custody like the other 17 bosses. The Central Investigation Bureau officers have just finished interrogating him on Friday morning. It is believed that he will face the same fate and be detained in prison.
Earlier, the Criminal Court denied bail to 17 suspects in The iCon Group fraud case against the public and for inputting false information into computer systems.
The court considered the investigators’ petition, stating that: “The case is complex and intricate, with widespread societal impacts across the kingdom. There are numerous victims, a high monetary value involved, and it is a case of public interest. If released on temporary bail, there are concerns that the suspects may flee.”
All of them were taken to prison on the night of October 17. Ten male suspects, including famous actors Sam Yuranunt Pamornmontri and Kan Kantathavorn, were transported to Bangkok Special Prison. The seven female suspects, including Min Peechaya Watanamamontree, were separately detained at the Central Women’s Correctional Institution.
17 suspects in the iCon Group fraud case, are taken to prison on the night of October 17, 2024.
They underwent the standard prisoner intake process, similar to regular inmates. This included a physical examination and changing into brown prison uniforms. They will be placed in a quarantine ward for 5 days, followed by a 5-day classification period, after which they will be distributed to various prison sections.
Prior to this, the police impounded 23 luxury cars and some other items worth 220 million baht from The iCon Group’s top executives. Most of the cars, including one Bentley and a Rolls Royce, and a few items belonging to CEO and group founder Boss Paul alone are worth 61 million baht.
The CIB officers seize several luxury cars of the iCon Group’s bosses.
