Flash Floods Push Thailand to Hasten Warning System Upgrade

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17 September 2024, 19:43

flash floods — Flash flood hits the area of Mae Ka Sub-district, Mueang District, Phayao Province, at around 4 a.m. on September 17, 2024, causing significant damage to the community, houses and over 200 vehicles.

BANGKOK — While people in the flood-hit areas of Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai Provinces are starting to clean up houses and roads buried under mud, Phayao Province further downstream is facing flash floods that have reached the city and flooded the University of Phayao on Wednesday.

This incident raises questions once again about the public warning system that could help protect lives and mitigate property damage.

Anutin Charnvirakul, Minister of Interior, confirms that the government has all forms of warning measures, both analog and digital. However, in some areas, they need to use verbal communication and send people to help, because there are elderly people who don’t constantly look at screens.

The most effective method is to send officials to give warnings, explain the situation, and assess it at the same time. He assures that they are using all available methods, but when it comes to flash floods, it’s particularly challenging.

Flash floods from the Nam Huai Kieng and Nam Huai Moh Khaeng Thong rivers in Mae Ka sub-district emerged around 4 a.m. of September 17 after heavy rains and flooded the area in front of University of Phayao, Hua Kien Village, Moo 16, Mae Ka sub-district, Mueang Phayao district.

The floods caused significant damage to the community, dormitories, houses and over 200 cars and motorcycles belonging to students and locals, many of which were swept away by the floodwaters and mud and crashed into electric poles and structures.

Out of Warning Routes

Ratthaphon Naradisorn, the Governor of Phayao Province, explained that officials had already issued warnings about heavy rainfall and the possibility of flash floods and landslides. However, the area that was hit by the flash flood had never been included in previous warning routes.

Typically, the water path comes from flash floods several kilometers away from the University of Phayao, before flowing into the Mae Ka and Mae Tam streams. But this time, the volume of water was so massive that it suddenly flooded the student dormitories located on the sloping area in front of the University of Phayao.

In the aftermath, various agencies, including the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM), the Royal Irrigation Department, rescue units, the military, police and local leaders of Mae Ka sub-district, were mobilized to urgently help the students and locals.

phayao flood3 — Flash flood hits the area of Mae Ka Sub-district, Mueang District, Phayao Province, at around 4 a.m. on September 17, 2024, causing significant damage to the community, houses and over 200 vehicles.

They also deployed machinery to clear the way for water flowing into the Nam Huai Kieng and Nam Huai Kien rivers to be diverted into the Nam Mae Tam River, which eventually flows into Kwan Phayao Lake. Water levels have since receded, although some low-lying areas are still flooded. The reservoirs are currently 80 percent full and the sluices remain closed to retain additional water.

The Geoinformatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA) has been monitoring the flood situation and showed satellite images from Sentinel-1A on 16 September showing flooding in parts of Phayao province in five districts: Chiang Kham, Dok Khamtai, Phu Kam Yao, Chun, and Mueang Phayao. A total of 36,033 rai of land, mainly agricultural land and residential houses, are under water, with 2,281 rai in Mueang Phayao affected.

Mae Sai’s Hard Cleaning

In Chiang Rai Province, transportation between communities in Mae Sai District continues to be difficult due to muddy roads. Many areas are still flooded, with strong water currents, especially in Ko Sai commune near Soi 10 shrine. Water supply is also not working, causing significant difficulties as people rely on water donations. Many houses are still uninhabitable.

chiangrai cleaning1 — Many areas in Mae Sai District, Chiang Rai Province are still flooded, with strong water currents, and covered with mud.

Narongpol Kidarn, district chief of Mae Sai, said that all agencies assisting with the flooding in Mae Sai, along with Mae Sai Subdistrict Municipality, have deployed personnel to remove mud from roads and open transportation routes. They are also working with military engineers to seal leaks in the dams along the Sai River. Five leaks have been identified to reduce the amount of water entering the communities.

In the communities where the water has receded, the power supply has been restored and is expected to be fully restored soon. The restoration of public utilities, especially the water supply, is underway. Hundreds of people are still housed in the emergency shelters, but some have already returned to their homes.

3 Billion Baht for Relief

At Government House, meanwhile, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra announced after a Cabinet meeting that the Cabinet had approved a proposal by the Ministry of Home Affairs to provide financial assistance to flood victims during the 2024 rainy season.

A budget of 3.045 billion baht ($91.4 million) was allocated from the central budget for the 2024 financial year. The Ministry of Interior has been instructed to speed up the review process and reduce paperwork to ensure aid reaches people as quickly as possible.

In addition, there are measures to waive electricity charges in the disaster-affected areas for September and reduce electricity rates by 30% in October. If a house is damaged more than 70%, the owner will receive compensation of 230,000 baht ($6,900).

The Prime Minister also instructed all government agencies to quickly consider additional measures beyond the usual protocols to assist citizens affected by the flood. If a matter requires Cabinet approval, it should be prioritized to ensure rapid assistance, including improving the efficiency of early warning systems.

satun flood — Flash floods inundated the Chalung-La-ngu road in Mueang District, Satun Province, on September 16, 2024.

Upgrade Warning Systems

The government will enhance its disaster prevention weak points, particularly in the area of early warning systems, by implementing a Cell Broadcast system. This technology allows for the simultaneous sending of messages to multiple mobile phone users in a specified area, reaching individuals comprehensively. This is an upgrade over the current methods of radio broadcasts, loudspeaker announcements, or sending people to spread the word, which are often not timely enough.

Originally, the Cell Broadcast system was scheduled to be completed in May 2025. However, the Prime Minister has directed that it should be implemented as quickly as possible, ahead of schedule.

This system will enable the sending of early warning messages via mobile phones (SMS), including advance warnings 12-24 hours before an event and emergency alerts 6-12 hours prior. This will ensure that people in high-risk areas receive warning information and can prepare for situations in a timely manner, thus reducing potential losses.

nongkhai flood — The Mekong River water level starting from Nong Khai Province has begun to decrease, but it’s still above the riverbank. The floodgates cannot be opened yet, causing the economic center of the city to remain flooded as of September 17, 2024.

45 Deaths in Floods

On September 17, the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) also reported a summary of flood situations in various areas across Thailand between August 16 and September 17. There were a total of 45 deaths, 24 injuries, and 139,803 households affected.

The disaster affected 30 provinces, including Chiang Rai, Chiang Mai, Mae Hong Son, Tak, Phayao, Nan, Lamphun, Lampang, Phrae, Uttaradit, Sukhothai, Phitsanulok, Nakhon Sawan, Phetchabun, Loei, Udon Thani, Nong Khai, Bueng Kan, Nong Bua Lamphu, Prachin Buri, Ang Thong, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Rayong, Chumphon, Phuket, Yala, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phang Nga, Trang, and Satun. This encompasses 150 districts, 672 sub-districts, and 3,525 villages.

Currently, flood situations persist in 13 provinces: Chiang Rai, Sukhothai, Phitsanulok, Nong Khai, Udon Thani, Bueng Kan, Prachin Buri, Ang Thong, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Phang Nga, Chumphon, Phuket, and Satun.

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CP Foods Honored with Two Thailand Labour Management Excellence Awards 2024

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MC Marketing

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17 September 2024, 17:29

Charoen Pokphand Foods Public Company Limited (CP Foods) has received prestigious royal recognition for outstanding labour management practices at two of its aquatic business operations. Her Royal Highness Princess Sirindhorn presented the Thailand Labour Management Excellence Award 2024 to CP Foods’ Ban Bueng Aqua Feed Mill in Chonburi province and Tha Bon Shrimp Hatchery in Songkhla province. These accolades, conferred by the Department of Labor Protection and Welfare under Thailand’s Ministry of Labour, distinguish the facilities as exemplars of exceptional labour management systems.

The award ceremony, presided over by Labour Minister Pipat Ratchakitprakarn, took place at the Ministry of Labour’s conference room. Representatives from Tha Bon Shrimp Hatchery and Ban Bueng Aqua Feed Mill were present to receive the royal awards. In a related achievement, CP Foods’ JR 2-3 Shrimp Hatchery in Trat province secured the highest honor for outstanding labor relations and welfare for the 20th consecutive year.

The Ban Bueng Aquatic Feed Mill and Tha Bon Shrimp Hatchery earned this esteemed recognition for their exemplary performance in three critical areas; attaining the highest level of Thai Labor Standard (TLS 8001) certification, demonstrating excellence in labor relations and welfare and maintaining superior standards in occupational safety, health, and work environment.

Notably, both operations achieved a remarkable zero-accident record for an entire year, significantly enhancing workplace safety and employees’ overall quality of life. These accomplishments have bolstered stakeholder confidence and set a benchmark for other organizations nationwide.

CP Foods acknowledges its employees as the cornerstone of the company’s success and sustainable growth. The organization is committed to socially responsible business practices, emphasizing fair and equal treatment of all employees in accordance with human rights principles. CP Foods actively encourages its operational sites, including factories and farms, to develop labour management practices that align with both Thai labour standards and international guidelines.

Since 2021, CP Foods’ shrimp business operations, including the Ban Bueng Aquatic Feed Mill and Tha Bon Shrimp Hatchery, have maintained Thai Labour Standard TLS 8001:2020 certification. These facilities consistently uphold these standards and undergo rigorous verifications equivalent to international benchmarks.

This recent recognition builds upon CP Foods’ track record of excellence in labour management. Previously, two other CP Foods operations received Royal Awards for Outstanding Labour Management: the JR 2-3 Shrimp Hatchery in Trat Province in 2019 and the Pathiu Shrimp Hatchery in Chumphon Province in 2021.

Thais Could Face the Death Penalty after Drug Arrests on Bali

By

Associated Press

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17 September 2024, 16:40

Indonesia Thailand Durg Arrest — Thai nationals, Rachanon Jongseeha, second left and Woranawan Wongsuwan, third from left, line up during a news conference at the Bali Province national narcotics board on Tuesday, Sept. 17, 2024 in Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia. (AP Photo/Firdia Lisnawati)

DENPASAR, Indonesia (AP) — Indonesian authorities said Tuesday that they have arrested six people on drug charges on the tourist island of Bali since July.

Four could face execution under the country’s strict drug laws.

Two Thai nationals, Rachanon Jongseeha, 33, and his girlfriend, Woranawan Wongsuwan, 31, were arrested upon arrival at Bali’s Ngurah Rai airport on Sept. 8, with 1.9 kilograms (4.1 pounds) of methamphetamines mixed with ecstasy powder packed in 108 sachets of a fruit-flavored collagen drink, and 20 pills of the party drug ecstasy, according to provincial anti-narcotics chief Rudy Ahmad Sudrajat.

Police later arrested two Indonesians on accusations of ordering the drugs from Thailand.

All four could face execution by firing squad if charged and found guilty, Sudrajat said. In Nov. 2019, a court in Bali sentenced two Thais to 16-year prison terms for smuggling 1 kilogram (2.2 pounds) of methamphetamine.

Authorities also announced the July arrests of two European men on drug charges.

Sudrajat said a Latvian man, identified by the initials VS, was arrested at the airport on July 4 carrying 450.41 grams (15.8 ounces) of hashish and 977.83 grams (34.5 ounces) of marijuana concealed in his suitcase.

AP24261133478478 — Thai nationals, Rachanon Jongseeha, second left and Woranawan Wongsuwan, third from left, line up during a news conference at the Bali Province national narcotics board on Tuesday, Sept. 17, 2024, in Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia. (AP Photo/Firdia Lisnawati)

Sudrajat said VS had a tattoo indicating affiliation with organized crime groups in the former Soviet Union.

He faces a possible life sentence for cannabis smuggling.

A Swedish man identified by the initials SUE was captured on July 31 when police raided his villa in Gianyar, a popular tourist spot, and seized 201.28 grams (7 ounces) of hashish, following a tip that SUE had received a suspicious package by mail from Thailand, Sudrajat said. He faces up to 15 years on charges of possession.

Indonesia has dozens of convicted drug smugglers on death row. Its last executions were carried out in July 2016, when an Indonesian and three foreigners were shot by firing squad.

In May 2019, a French citizen was sentenced to death on Lombok, an island next to Bali, for smuggling 3 kilograms (6.6 pounds) of ecstasy before a higher court commuted his sentence to 19 years in prison.

From City Condo to Rural Farm: Thai Bride Escapes Chinese Marriage Scam

By

Khaosod English

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17 September 2024, 15:52

thai bride3 — Fern, a 24-year-old Thai woman, shared her story of being tricked into marrying a Chinese man during a press conference at the office of the 'Sai Mai Tong Rod' page in Bangkok, on September 17, 2024.

BANGKOK — A 24-year-old Thai woman was deceived by a matchmaking agency into marrying a Chinese man who claimed to be a businessman with a luxurious condo in China. However, it turned out he lived in an old house on a mountain without a bathroom.

On September 17, a 24-year-old Thai woman, using the pseudonym Fern, shared her story during a press conference at the office of the ‘Sai Mai Tong Rod’ (Sai Mai Must Survive) page in Bangkok.

Fern said she used to work as a receptionist at an airport. Later, an acquaintance introduced her to an agency that would help find her a Chinese husband who wanted a Thai wife. She was promised a substantial dowry and a good life with a good family, which interested her.

She then chatted with the man through WeChat. He told her he was a businessman with a luxurious condo in the city. After talking for about a month, they got along well, and she agreed to go register for marriage and live in China. The agency gave her 90,000 baht as dowry, and the man covered all travel expenses.

She arrived in China on August 20. Upon arrival, the agency’s partner brought the man to pick her up. They then drove up a mountain, getting farther from the city. She wondered if people really lived in such remote areas.

When they reached the accommodation, it turned out to be the last house on the mountain, far from any community. It was a sheep farm with corn fields. She asked the man about the promised luxurious condo in the city. He replied that it was harvest season, and he needed to help his mother with work first, promising to return to the city later.

At that point, she felt she had no choice and decided to try living there. The man took her to register for marriage. However, life there was extremely difficult. There was no bathroom; they had to use buckets of water in the room and wipe themselves with wet cloths instead of showering. There was no clean drinking water.

Hair washing was limited to once a week when the man would take her to use a bathroom in the community. For toilet needs, they had to dig holes in the cornfield. She would hold her bowel movements to wait for hair washing days, causing constipation.

Moreover, the man rarely bathed. After working in the fields and farm, he would just take off his clothes and go to sleep. She couldn’t bear to sleep with him and had to sleep on the sofa. The man complained to the agency that she wouldn’t sleep with him. She explained the problems, but the agency didn’t help.

On September 15, she seized an opportunity when the man’s mother went into the cornfield. She escaped by sneaking through the cornfield, which was on terraced slopes with deep ravines. It felt life-threatening, but staying wasn’t an option.

She walked for over half a day until she reached a community. She asked locals to help take her to the city, then took a 4-hour bus ride to the airport to wait for a flight back to Bangkok.

thai bride1 — The Chinese groom takes his Thai bride to register for marriage on August 29, 2024.

When she returned to Thailand, she contacted the agency and explained what happened. The agency demanded she return, or she would have to pay a 350,000 baht fine to the man because he had already paid the dowry.

The man also tried to contact her, asking why she had to run away when he had given 800,000 baht as dowry, which should have been enough to support the whole family. This was when she realized that the agency had kept most of the money and only given her 90,000 baht.

Until now, she has been harassed and threatened by the agency, who also threatened her family, saying if she doesn’t pay the fine, they will sue her and force her to sign a loan agreement. She sought help from the ‘Sai Mai Tong Rod’ page to file a complaint against the agency.

She wants to warn other women considering finding a Chinese partner to be careful. In her case, she wasn’t physically abused, but whenever she did something the man didn’t like, she was verbally abused. Other women who found partners through the same agency and went to live in China were physically abused by their partners.

Mr. Ekapop Luangprasert, an advisor to the Minister of Interior and founder of the ‘Sai Mai Tong Rod’ page, said this case needs to be investigated for potential human trafficking because the agency received 800,000 baht from the Chinese man to send a Thai woman.

The team will take the victim to file a report with the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Division. He warns Thai women who want Chinese husbands to be careful, citing a previous case he helped with where a Thai woman married a Chinese man but was beaten when she had a daughter because the man’s family wanted a son to continue the family line.

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Iranian Duo Arrested in Bangkok for Scamming Chinese Tourist

By

Khaosod English

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17 September 2024, 11:58

iranian steal2 — CCTV footage shows the Iranian pair approaching Chinese tourists standing in front of a hotel in Sukhumvit Soi 20, on September 14, 2024. They engage in conversation about currency exchange and ask to see the Chinese tourist's cash before stealing some of it.

BANGKOK — Thai police arrest Iranian duo for multiple thefts in Bangkok business district; latest victim, a Chinese tourist, loses 10,000 baht within minutes

On September 17, Thonglor Police Station officers arrested Mr. Mohammad, 29, and Ms. Ali, 41, both Iranian nationals, in front of a condominium in Yanawa subdistrict, Sathorn district, Bangkok. They were suspected of stealing from a Chinese tourist.

Police investigation revealed that the pair approached Chinese tourists standing in front of a hotel in Sukhumvit Soi 20, pretending to be friendly. They engaged in conversation about currency exchange and asked to see the tourist’s cash. After returning the money, some was missing. The Chinese tourists later discovered that 10,000 baht had disappeared and filed a report at Thonglor Police Station.

iranian steal3 — Thonglor Police search for evidence in the room of Iranian pair at the condominium in Yanawa subdistrict, Sathorn district, Bangkok.

Officials later found that the two suspects had committed a similar crime in the Asok intersection area, stealing money from another victim before fleeing.

After reviewing CCTV footage, officers traced the suspects’ escape route to the aforementioned condominium. They were arrested while preparing to flee back to their home country.

Initially, both suspects denied the allegations. However, based on the investigation and evidence showing their extensive history of similar crimes committed professionally, they were charged with theft and sent for prosecution.

iranian steal1 — CCTV footage shows the Iranian pair going to Asok intersection area to commit a similar crime.

According to the Criminal Code, Section 334: Whoever dishonestly takes away the property of another person or which another person is a co-owner commits theft and shall be punished with imprisonment not exceeding three years and a fine not exceeding 60,000 baht.

Additionally, both offenders will have this recorded on their criminal record, making it difficult for them to return to Thailand in the future.

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Democracy Declined for 8th Straight Year Around the Globe

By

Associated Press

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17 September 2024, 11:03

Thailand Politics — Supporter of Move Forward Party hold a sign during a protest in Bangkok, Thailand, Wednesday, July 12, 2023. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit)

COPENHAGEN, Denmark (AP) — Last year had the worst decline in credible elections and parliamentary oversight in almost a half-century, driven by government intimidation, foreign interference, disinformation and the misuse of artificial intelligence in campaigns, an organization promoting democracy said Tuesday.

The International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance, or International IDEA, said election credibility is threatened by turnout dropping and results are increasingly being contested. One in three elections are being disputed in some way, it said.

The organization with 35 member governments said the average percentage of the voting age population who actually cast ballots has declined from 65.2% in 2008 to 55.5% in 2023.

“Elections remain the single best opportunity to end democratic backsliding and turn the tide in democracy’s favor,” said International IDEA’s Secretary-General, Kevin Casas-Zamora. “The success of democracy depends on many things, but it becomes utterly impossible if elections fail.”

The Stockholm-based organization said its Global Report on the State of the Democracy, which measures democratic performance in 158 countries from 1975 till today, found that 47% of countries have experienced a decline in key democratic indicators over the past five years, marking the eighth consecutive year of global democratic backsliding.

Globally, nearly 20% of elections between 2020 and 2024, one of the losing candidates or parties rejected the result, and elections were being decided by court appeals at the same rate.

AP23203151171173 — Locals look at a registration list before voting at a polling station on the outskirts of Phnom Penh, Cambodia, Saturday, July 22, 2023. (AP Photo/Heng Sinith)

The report said 2023 was the worst year when it came to free and fair elections and parliamentary oversight.

There were threats of foreign interference, disinformation and the use of artificial intelligence in campaigns. The declines span both traditionally strong democracies as well as fragile governments around the globe.

In Africa, democratic performance has generally remained stable over the past five years, with notable declines in the Sahel, particularly in coup-affected Burkina Faso which is one of a growing list of West African countries where the military has taken power, accusing the elected governments of failing to keep their promises. IDEA noted that Burundi and Zambia have made notable improvements.

As to Western Asia, over a third of countries performed poorly, while Europe has seen widespread declines in democratic aspects like the rule of law and civil liberties. However, progress have notably been reported in Montenegro and Latvia.

The study noted that the Americas have mostly maintained stability, but countries like Guatemala,Peru and Uruguay have experienced declines, particularly in rule of law and civil liberties.

Most countries in the Asia-Pacific region have seen minor declines or stability, with notable improvements in Fiji, the Maldives, and Thailand, the organization said. However, the declines were significant in Afghanistan where the Taliban have not been recognized by any country as the legitimate rulers since they seized power in 2021, and in Myanmar, where opposition to a military takeover has deteriorated to a civil war.

Thaksin’s Shadow Looms as Paetongtarn Gov’t Faces Challenges

By

Khaosod English

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17 September 2024, 06:48

paetong start1 — Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and ministers who are key leaders of the Pheu Thai Party hold a press conference at the Government House after a meeting to establish an assistance center for citizens affected by disasters, on September 16, 2024.

BANGKOK — The name Thaksin Shinawatra remains a significant and persistent political issue, even though Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s government has completed the political formalities of taking office and has begun governing. This is particularly evident in the face of immediate challenges such as natural disasters in the North and Northeast regions.

Paetongtarn’s government started with positive signals, winning two consecutive local elections: in Ratchaburi province, where their supported candidate won the Provincial Administrative Organization (PAO) chief position, and in a by-election in Phitsanulok Province, where the Pheu Thai Party defeated the People Party.

However, Prime Minister Paetongtarn continues to face challenges from complainants, a continuation from Srettha Thavisin’s tenure as prime minister.

AP24256113968641 1 — Thailand’s Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra makes the policy statement at parliament in Bangkok, Thailand, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit)

Paetongtarn has had more than 10 petitions filed against her, ranging from allegations about ministerial appointments to minor issues like making a mini-heart gesture while wearing formal white attire during the cabinet group photo. Meanwhile, the Pheu Thai Party faces a petition from an anonymous individual calling for its dissolution, accusing the party of allowing former PM Thaksin to dominate it.

The latest issue raised by reporters is the perception that Thaksin is behind the appointment of Phumtham Wechayachai, a trusted aide of Thaksin and a former senior-ranking communist insurgent, as Defence Minister. Phumtham then appointed General Traisak Intrarat, Thaksin’s classmate from military preparatory school, to his team.

This move is seen as Thaksin’s attempt to take revenge against the armed forces which staged two coups against the Pheu Thai government, first against Thaksin Shinawatra in 2006 and then again in 2014 against Yingluck Shinawatra, his sister.

On September 16, Defence Minister Phumtham responded to this question after his first day at the Ministry of Defence, stating that the reality is not as speculated. He said that the coups happened long ago, and this government’s focus is now on solving the country’s crises.

phumtham defence — Defense Minister Phumtham Wechayachai inspects a military parade during his first day at the Ministry of Defense on September 16, 2024.

“Please don’t worry. I’m ready to work comfortably with the armed forces. I’m 1000% confident that we can cooperate with various military branches with mutual respect, accepting our differences, and finding good conclusions in working together,” Phumtham said.

Beyond the external pressures, Thaksin is periodically mentioned in parliamentary debates, including during the government policy debate last week.

Thaksin was criticized on various issues, both his past performance and ideas linked to current government policies, such as drugs, conflicts in Muslim communities in Thailand’s southernmost region, economic issues, and entertainment complexes, etc.

Opposition leader Nattapong Ruangpanyawut referred to this government as a “three-boss government”: the big boss (referring to Thaksin), the capitalist boss (referring to large business groups), and the broker boss (referring to groups negotiating power and resources).

Other parliament members used sarcastic language about the father-daughter relationship between Thaksin and Paetongtarn, comparing Paetongtarn to a kindergartener dropped off at school by her father, or to the moon waiting for light from the sun.

The female Prime Minister responded by calling for the opposition to engage in constructive debate, not creating hate speech that causes social division, making them seem like a “vengeful side.”

AP24231042607258 — Thailand’s former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, left, and his daughter and newly elected Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra arrive before the royal endorsement ceremony appointing Paetongtarn as Thailand’s new prime minister at Pheu Thai party headquarters in Bangkok, Thailand, Sunday, Aug. 18, 2024. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit).

“This is not an election campaign period. We don’t need to create such things to cause misunderstandings. We need to see the bigger picture of the country rather than our own image,” she said.

Meanwhile, Pita Limjaroenrat, former leader of the Move Forward Party, argued that the People Party and Pheu Thai Party are rivals, not enemies. He then made a pointed remark that even the Democrat Party, which had been an enemy for the past 20 years, was brought into the government by Pheu Thai because the elites have reconciled.

This statement is another rhetorical device referring to Thaksin, whom both conservatives and progressives believe is behind Prime Minister Paetongtarn’s political moves.

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Strongest Typhoon Since 1949 Hits Shanghai, the Financial Hub

By

Associated Press

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16 September 2024, 20:40

The strongest typhoon to hit Shanghai since at least 1949 flooded roads with water and broken tree branches, knocked out power to some homes and injured at least one person as it swept over the financial hub Monday.

More than 414,000 people had been evacuated ahead of the powerful winds and torrential rain. Schools were closed and people were advised to stay indoors.

One elderly man was injured by a falling tree on Shanghai’s Chongming Island, according to state media. He was taken to a hospital for treatment.

Typhoon Bebinca made landfall around 7:30 a.m. in the sprawling Pudong business district with winds of 151 kph (94 mph) near its center.

Torrential rains flooded roads in the district, according to images broadcast by state media. Elsewhere in Shanghai, uprooted trees and fallen branches blanketed some roads and sidewalks. As the typhoon eased, responders cleared branches and other objects blown around by the storm.

More than 60,000 emergency responders and firefighters were at hand to lend aid in Shanghai.

AP24260208935219 — Policemen closed a road as fallen trees along a street in the aftermath of Typhoon Bebinca in Shanghai, China, Monday, Sept. 16, 2024. (Chinatopix Via AP)

Authorities said winds uprooted or damaged more than 10,000 trees and knocked out power for at least 380 households, damaging four houses.

At least 53 hectares (132 acres) of farmland were flooded.

The typhoon weakened as it moved inland, dousing parts of Jiangsu, Anhui and Zhejiang provinces.

Flights, ferries and train services had been suspended in the megacity and in neighboring provinces, disrupting travel during China’s three-day Mid-Autumn Festival. Shanghai’s airports canceled hundreds of flights Sunday and into Monday, while in Hangzhou, about 170 kilometers (106 miles) southwest of Shanghai, authorities also canceled more than 180 flights.

Flights at Shanghai’s airports resumed Monday afternoon as the storm moved away.

AP24260208939394 — A man carrying an umbrella walks by fallen tree branches along a street in the aftermath of Typhoon Bebinca in Shanghai, China, Monday, Sept. 16, 2024. (Chinatopix Via AP)

Weather authorities expected Shanghai and parts of neighboring provinces to receive up to 30 centimeters (12 inches) of rainfall between Monday and Wednesday.

Shanghai, which has 25 million people, is rarely hit by typhoons, which usually make landfall further south in China.

Typhoon Yagi hit China’s southern Hainan island earlier this month and has caused devastation in Southeast Asia. In Myanmar, Yagi caused at least 74 deaths with dozens missing. Four deaths were reported in Hainan, at least 10 have died in Thailand and 20 in the Philippines.

Vietnam has reported more than 230 people killed in the typhoon and subsequent flooding and landslides, with dozens more still missing.

Siam Paragon Hosts Bangkok Int’l Fashion Week 2024 Alongside Global Event

By

MC Marketing

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16 September 2024, 17:57

As Thailand’s iconic destinations, Siam Paragon, Siam Center and Siam Discovery have continuously played a key role as a cornerstone of the Thai fashion industry and a driving force of the country’s fashion ecosystem. In 2024, the three destinations are spotlighting Thailand as Asia’s major fashion hub with “Siam Paragon Bangkok International Fashion Week 2024” (BIFW2024), the country’s most revered fashion week and the platform of opportunity. Save the date for the fashion extravaganza on October 2-6, 2024 when Parc Paragon at Siam Paragon transforms into a vibrant fashion scene under the theme “Envision the Future.”

BIFW2024 will feature standout fashion highlights. Siam Paragon has forged a ‘Co-Creation’ with top designers of Thailand and Asia together with key partners from various industries within Siam Piwat’s robust ecosystem, to present 15 dazzling fashion shows that exemplify the power of creativity. Siam Center will showcase the work from young generation designers and fashion students, offering them a unique platform to unveil their innovative creations. Meanwhile, Siam Discovery invites fashion lovers to an experiment from leading international fashion brands. Another milestone is Siam Piwat will host Thailand’s first-ever global fashion event, bringing together international industry leaders and influential personalities to offer valuable insights and key trends of the global fashion industry as well as explore Thailand’s burgeoning opportunities.

Thanaporn Tantiyanon, Head of Business Unit of Siam Paragon, stated, “Siam Paragon is a ‘world class fashion destination’ and Siam Paragon Bangkok International Fashion Week is a pride of Siam Paragon as it continues to drive Thailand’s fashion industry for the 17th successive year. BIFW has grown into a premier fashion week in Thailand and Southeast Asia, playing a pivotal role in being a true ‘platform of opportunities and nurturing and sustaining our country’s fashion ecosystem. This platform not only gives Thai designers a consistent stage to showcase their work but also provides unparalleled opportunities for emerging talent to shine. BIFW also creates significant economic impact, driving numerous activities linked to the fashion industry value chain. In addition, it also amplifies Thailand’s identity as a fashion capital through extensive media and social media coverage which is a crucial success factor for brands today and strengthens Thailand’s global image as a vibrant fashion city.”

BIFW2024 is a result of strong collaborations with key partners across various sectors within the Siam Piwat ecosystem, including public and private entities such as the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), KASIKORNBANK Public Company Limited, MERZ AESTHETICS, PTT Global Chemical Public Company Limited (GC), CITIZEN, M.A.C Cosmetics Thailand, Epson Thailand, Chivas The Blend, Absolut It’s in our Spirit, Nesvita, Paul Mitchell, Korea Thailand Communication Center and Chatrium Grand Bangkok Hotel

Siam Paragon Bangkok International Fashion Week 2024, the ultimate fashion phenomenon featuring 15 fashion shows by leading Thai and Asian Designers

To celebrate Siam Paragon’s 19th anniversary and its continued role in propelling Thailand’s fashion industry forward, BIFW2024 will offer an extraordinary experience on its grand runway. The event is a ‘Co-Creation’ collaborations, presenting the latest collections from top Thai designers such as Absolute Siam x Dry Clean Only x AJOBYAJO, ASAVA, FLYNOW, 27FRIDAY, ISSUE presented by GC, KLOSET, Leisure Projects presented by CITIZEN, MOO Bangkok, NAGARA, PAINKILLER Atelier, POEM presented by MERZ AESTHETICS, TandT presented by TAT, and VICKTEERUT. Additionally, the event will spotlight international talents and brands, including the legendary Korean designer LIE SANGBONG and Friends of SHANGHAI TANG Collection by the iconic Hong Kong fashion brand Shanghai Tang, celebrating its 30th anniversary this year in collaboration with renowned designer Joe Li.

Fashion enthusiasts can also enjoy privilege through the ‘Siam Paragon World Fashion Privilege’ campaign. Shoppers who spend via OneSiam KBank Credit Card at participating fashion stores within Siam Paragon between October 1-11, 2024, will not only receive a SIAM GIFT CARD from Siam Paragon but also an additional top-of Siam Gift Card reward from KBank.

Siam Center Visionary Stage: a platform for new designers and fashion students to showcase creativity: October 2-6, 2024, at Atrium 2, G Floor, Siam Center

As Thailand’s pioneering international-standard shopping center, Siam Center has been at the forefront of the country’s fashion scene for over 50 years and a trendsetting destination. As part of BIFW2024, Siam Center The Ideopolis will host the Siam Center Visionary Stage at Atrium 2, G Floor, from October 2-6, 2024. This is a platform of opportunity for emerging designers, offering them a stage to showcase their creative vision. The event will highlight innovative designs that reflect the future of fashion, blending creativity with cutting-edge technology to inspire sustainable and eco-friendly design approaches. Under the theme ‘Envision the Future’, this year’s show will focus on sustainable practices, from design concepts to production processes, ensuring that fashion can thrive while minimizing its environmental impact.

The event will feature works from young designers and fashion students from 11 leading institutions across the country, including Bangkok University, Khon Kaen University, Chulalongkorn University, Chanapatana International Design Institute (CIDI), Chiang Mai University, Thammasat University, Rajamangala University of Technology Phra Nakhon, Mahasarakham University, Suan Sunandha Rajabhat University, Srinakharinwirot University (FASH by CCI), and Rajamangala University of Technology Srivijaya, Songkhla, all of which are renowned for their focus on design and fashion design. This year, the event will partner with Epson Thailand to support young design talents. Every show from participating educational institutions will feature designs created with special printing techniques by Epson, which has developed innovations that support sustainable production technologies. The event will also showcase fashion shows from popular brands at Siam Center, including Frank Garçon and FUNDAO.

Siam Discovery launches the fashion campaign “Siam Discovery: The Revolutionary 2024” throughout October

Siam Discovery The Exploratorium is reinforcing its reputation as a hub of innovative creativity with the campaign “Siam Discovery: The Revolutionary 2024”. It invites everyone to explore and experiment their unique style through leading international fashion brands.

CLUB21 will present the JACQUEMUS LA CASA collection and COMME des GARÇONS SHIRT’s Autumn/Winter 2024 collection under the theme “Live Free, Strong Will.” The Discovery Selection zone will showcase a curated collection of renowned international fashion brands, catering to both women and men, including ADER ERROR, ANDERSSON BELL, SECOND FEMALE, Open YY, AMOMENTO, The North Face, EVISU and ECOTOPIA. New brands, such as Marimekko with their Fall-Winter 2024 collection, will also be introduced, offering fashion lovers fresh experiences with their latest collections.

Siam Piwat and global fashion news authority WWD to host WWD X SIAM PIWAT GLOBAL FASHION SPOTLIGHT, the first in Thailand and Southeast Asia

With a commitment to elevating Thailand’s fashion industry to the next level, Siam Piwat is hosting the “WWD X SIAM PIWAT GLOBAL FASHION SPOTLIGHT”, the first-ever global fashion event in Thailand and Southeast Asia. This groundbreaking event will take place on Friday, October 4, 2024 at Parc Paragon, Siam Paragon.

Tipanat Lenbury, Senior Executive Vice President, Sales and Business Relations, Fashion Business Group, Siam Piwat Company Limited, stated, “The WWD x SIAM PIWAT GLOBAL FASHION SPOTLIGHT is a global event where Siam Piwat Group has collaborated with globally recognized leader in fashion news Women’s Wear Daily (WWD), fashion experts, and leading global brands, to organize a seminar themed “SOUTHEAST ASIA – LUXURY’S NEW FUTURE”. We have invited key figures and influencers in the fashion industry to participate with the support by KASIKORNBANK Public Company Limited. This event presents an excellent opportunity for our partners, retailers, and stakeholders to gain valuable insights and network with industry experts.”

Get ready for the ultimate fashion experience at Siam Paragon Bangkok International Fashion Week 2024, from October 2-6, 2024, at Parc Paragon, Siam Paragon. Stay updated and watch live runway shows and fashion dialogues on the Siam Paragon or OneSiam website, Facebook, and Instagram.

#SiamParagonBIFW2024 #BIFW2024 #SiamParagon

depa’s ‘Coding for Better Life’ Project Succeeds in Building Thailand’s Future

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16 September 2024, 17:55

The Ministry of Digital Economy and Society (MDES) by the Digital Economy Promotion Agency (depa) announce the success of the ” Coding for Better Life, Building the Foundation for Thailand’s Future Project”. It reveals an excellent response from teachers, students, parents, and the public nationwide. Key accomplishments of the project include upgrading coding infrastructure for 1,500 schools across the country; coding bootcamp for over 3,200 students and teachers participating in intensive coding skill development activities; creating public awareness for more than 116,000 people about coding through the Coding Roadshow activities having more than 900 creative coding projects created by students and teachers as part of the initiative.

Asst. Prof. Dr. Nuttapon Nimmanphatcharin, President and CEO of depa reveals that the “Coding for Better Life: Building the Foundation for Thailand’s Future Project” is part of a long-term plan. The goal is to develop teachers capable of passing on coding knowledge and skills to students for future generations. Along with enhancing infrastructure to support learning and teaching, the project aims to cultivate digital warriors that are ready to build the country’s future and alleviate the shortage of skilled digital workers. This initiative aligns with the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society’s (MDES) policy to drive the digital economy and society by increasing the nation’s digital human capital.

Asst. Prof. Dr. Nuttapon continues stating that over the years, depa has consistently prioritized the development of coding skills for Thai youth since 2018. The goal is to lay the foundation for future digital skills and address the country’s shortage of digital talents. The “Coding for Better Life, Building the Foundation for Thailand’s Future Project”, is a collaboration between MDES and depa, integrating efforts with a network of partners to promote the creation of a digital ecosystem that supports the development of coding skills for students, teachers, and educational staffs. This is achieved through the upgrading of coding infrastructure under the concept of “Coding Skills for Applying in Everyday Life,” by supporting over 20 specialized courses from partner networks and providing digital teaching tools. The initiative has been implemented in 1,500 schools nationwide.

Additionally, the project includes activities such as Coding Bootcamp & Coding Roadshow and Coding War across 8 regions of the country taking place in many provinces including Khon Kaen, Bangkok, Ubon Ratchathani, Phitsanulok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Chonburi, and Songkhla. Over 3,200 teachers and students from participating schools joined the Coding Bootcamp to learn intensive coding skills both theoretical and practical sessions from the country’s renowned experts. They also had the opportunity to create coding projects. Parents, guardians, and interested members of the public participated in the Coding Roadshow activity, which was held both on-site and online along with the Coding Bootcamp activity, attracting over 116,000 people.

The Coding War activity engaged over 5,000 participants, or 1,250 teams across the country with the top 100 teams advancing to a more intensive coding development round before competing in the finals. The top 10 teams from primary and secondary schools received scholarships and digital equipment worth over 1 million baht as prizes. The Coding for Better Life project also resulted in over 900 coding projects created by teachers and students nationwide.

The Coding for Better Life project has received significant support from the private sector. Suntory Beverage & Food (Thailand) Co., Ltd., which had continuously supported the project by donating Micro:bit devices to schools as part of the upgrading coding classroom activity with a contribution valued at over 1 million baht. The company also supported the AI Roadshow, which inspired youth, teachers, parents, and the public in 8 provinces about AI in various career fields. Additionally, the company supported cash prizes and BRAND’s Essence of Chicken Drinks for a year to the winning teams in both primary and secondary school categories along with 2 special awards totaling valued over 600,000 baht in the Coding War activity.

Other private companies including Huawei Technologies (Thailand) Co., Ltd., supported the project by providing the HUAWEI CLOUD DEVELOPER course; True Corporation Public Co., Ltd provided learning vouchers through TRUE DIGITAL ACADEMY; AIA Thailand contributed funding to schools participating in the project; Tero Performance Course supported the project with courses aimed at instilling coding knowledge among youth helping Thai children grow into skilled digital warriors for driving the country towards a digital economy and society effectively.

“MDES and depa hope that the Coding for Better Life Project will be a significant step in elevating Thai youth to become a digital workforce and professionals of the country. We also extend our gratitude to the teachers who nurture these young students, as they are the seeds that will grow into vital contributors to driving Thailand forward amidst the evolving digital economy and society,” said the President and CEO of depa.

More information and details about the “Coding for Better Life, Building the Foundation for Thailand’s Future Project”, can be found at www.depa.or.th, www.codingthailand.org, and depa Facebook page “depa Thailand” and “CodingThailand by depa”.

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