Siam Paragon Joins 12 Embassies to Commemorate King Rama X’s Birthday

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19 July 2024, 15:24

To commemorate His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn Phra Vajiraklaochaoyuhua of Thailand’s 72th birthday anniversary on 28 July approaches, Siam Paragon Development Co., Ltd. in collaboration with 12 Embassies to Thailand will host “The Nation Unites in Commemorating His Majesty the King” event from 26-29 July 2024 at Parc Paragon, Siam Paragon. The event will feature cultural performances of Thailand and 12 countries under the concept “Long-Standing Relations.” In addition, a majestic floral exhibit by internationally-renowned florist Sakul Inthankul is on display at The Jewel, M Floor all through July 2024. The event is supported by Siam Commercial Bank PCL., and Boon Rawd Brewery Co.,Ltd.

Enjoy cultural performance from 12 Embassies, from 26-29 July 2024 at Siam Paragon

Siam Paragon, a top-of-mind global destination among Thais and international visitors is collaborating with 12 Embassies to present special cultural performances under “Long-Standing Relations’ concept to commemorate this auspicious occasion. Featured will be contemporary dance called “Shared Language” from Australia. Bhutan will present Boar Mask Dance, Garuda Dance and Drum Dance from Tshangkha. China will bring Chinese Cultural Engkor Dance which is a combination between martial arts, Chinese opera and traditional dance. Representing France will be piano and singing performance. India will showcase Ramayana performances – Narayan Avatar (Dashavataram) and Narayan Avatar.

Indonesia will present Tari Puspawresi or Bali Dance and Angklung performance. Japan will demonstrate their unique karate martial arts. South Korea will introduce Gilnori festival parade and traditional folk song performance from Gayageum together with Thai musical instruments, Jindo Drum Dance as well as Modeumbuk Korean drum performance. Laos will showcase traditional dance, music and Khaen folksong performance. The Netherlands will present a jazz performance by internationally-renowned jazz musicians. Spain will showcase their specially-choregraphed flamenco dance for this special occasion and USA will bring to the stage part of the famous Chicago musical show. Thailand will present contemporary Khon performances and dances as well as music performance from the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration.

Siam Paragon exhibits captivating floral craft “Busabunchalee MaleeNopparat Chalerm Prachon” at The Jewel, M Floor, from 1-31 July 2024.

Siam Paragon presents cherished Thai floral art and craft with a majestic floral exhibit “Busabunchalee MaleeNopparat ChalermPrachon,” which means exquisite flowers and auspicious gemstones in celebration of His Majesty the King’s birthday. The lavish flower showcase is designed by internationally-renowned Thai floral artist Sakul Inthakul, who is also recognized by his exquisite contemporary Thai flower showcase. The showcase is a collaboration with the Faculty of Home Economics Technology at Rajamangala University of Technology Krungthep, led by Head of Home Economics Education led by Asst. Prof. Dr. Jakkrapan Roopngam and joined by over a hundred students from the Faculty of Home Economics, a gathering of fine craftmanship to express loyalty and offering best wishes to His Majesty the King.

Sakul Inthakul talks about this floral masterpiece at Siam Paragon that “This is a grandiose of floral work in celebration of a very auspicious occasion. As an artist, this is a public space exhibit, which is rather different from art gallery showcase. As Siam Paragon is a destination that welcomes numerous visitors each day, the challenge is how to create a visually-stunning centerpiece that strikingly capture attention and a great photo opportunity. This floral display reflects Thai heritage and culture and at the same time incorporates contemporaneity that can speak to people of all generations. The inspiration and intricate details to create this masterpiece definitely leverage the value of this work of art. Most importantly, the objective of the work is to offer blessings and express our loyalty to His Majesty the King in this auspicious occasion.”

For this golden-yellow ceremonious showcase, Sakul was inspired by varieties of Thai flowers, especially yellow star which symbolizes the reign of King Maha Vajiralongkorn. A total of 46 Yellow Star blooms were created using fabric crafted with various intricate technique of traditional Thai banana leaf art. Each pollen takes the shape of buckle in traditional Thai costume and decorated with fabric in the colors of auspicious gemstone including diamond, pearl, emerald, ruby, yellow sapphire, garnet, blue sapphire and blue topaz.

Sakul has served royal commissions for Her Majesty Queen Sirikit the Queen Mother and therefore intentionally incorporates “Queen Sirikit Cattleya” orchid, one of the iconic floras named after Her Majesty The Queen Mother, into this elaborate display. The orchid together with the yellow star symbolize love and connection between the His Majesty the King and Her Majesty Queen Sirikit the Queen Mother. The orchids are crafted with lifelike Thai flowers including crown flowers and gardenia woven into various patterns of graceful flower netting.

All performances and the flower showcase are open to the public and tourists for free, from 26-29 July 2024, from 13.00 – 19.00 hrs. The opening ceremony will take place on 26 July 2024 at 14.00 hrs. and will be joined by Ambassadors and representatives from various countries. Thailand will also present the opening show featuring xylophone performance by actor Kornkan ‘Arm’ Sutthikoses and dance performance representing four regions of Thailand directed by Dr. Suraj Jongda performed by Narilya ‘Yada’ Gulmongkolpech at Parc Paragon, Siam Paragon.

For more information, call Siam Paragon 02-610-8000 or follow Facebook: SiamParagon

U.S. Embassy Launches ‘Virtual Jungle’ AR Campaign for Thai Wildlife Conservation

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Khaosod English

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19 July 2024, 14:48

BANGKOK — The U.S. Embassy launched “Virtual Jungle Thailand” on Thursday at FabCafe in the Thailand Creative & Design Center (TCDC).

This innovative digital campaign aims to promote wildlife conservation and raise awareness about threats facing endangered species in Thailand using extended reality (XR) and augmented reality (AR) technology. The initiative combines digital and physical engagement to showcase the collaborative efforts of the United States and Thailand in wildlife preservation.

The six-month campaign, running from July to December 2024, includes hands-on workshops for youth and the public. Kalaya Kovidvisith, the Virtual Jungle Thailand app developer and a special lecturer in innovation and technology at Chulalongkorn and Thammasat Universities, will teach participants how to use technology to protect wildlife.
Additionally, the campaign features outreach activities such as a U.S. Photography Exhibition with National Geographic.

Virtual Jungle1 — U.S. Ambassador to Thailand, Robert F. Godec

“Virtual Jungle Thailand” promotes ethical tourism and discourages harmful animal encounters, aiming for a brighter future for Thailand’s incredible creatures. By educating and engaging users, the campaign seeks to reduce visits to wildlife petting zoos and tiger parks where tourism exploitation often overshadows Thailand’s wildlife beauty.

U.S. Ambassador to Thailand, Robert F. Godec, noted that Thailand has been the United States’ oldest friend in Asia for over 190 years, with environmental cooperation crucial to bilateral relations. “We have worked together to reduce air pollution and combat climate change, all to preserve our natural heritage for future generations,” he said. “Additionally, we have joined forces in wildlife conservation and achieved notable successes in collaborating and combating wildlife trafficking.”

Mr. Godec explained that the “Virtual Jungle Thailand” application aims to raise awareness about threats facing endangered species in Thailand. This initiative allows people to design and share animals with friends and others, playing an important role in raising public awareness about Thailand’s remarkable biodiversity, the threats against it, and potential solutions.

Virtual Jungle4 — Kalaya Kovidvisith, the Virtual Jungle Thailand app developer and a special lecturer in innovation and technology at Chulalongkorn and Thammasat Universities.

“Our shared responsibility is to protect endangered species and natural resources. At this moment, our planet is losing wildlife faster than at any other time since the disappearance of the dinosaurs. Every action, no matter how small, can make a difference,” he remarked.

The U.S. Embassy also invited people to visit the National Geographic Photo Ark Exhibition, open at Siam Paragon through July 29, 2024. The exhibition aims to inspire people to care for and protect animals for future generations and ignite a commitment to conservation and positive impact.

Assistant Secretary for Insular and International Affairs Carmen G. Cantor added, “We manage and protect U.S. public lands, protected areas, and natural resources, including wildlife. Our mission also has an international impact as the water and resources we manage, the people we serve, and the species we protect extend beyond our borders.”

Virtual Jungle2 — U.S. Ambassador to Thailand Robert F. Godec and Assistant Secretary for Insular and International Affairs Carmen G. Cantor pose with Thai students.

One of the Interior Department’s priorities under the Biden-Harris Administration is to work with global partners to tackle climate and biodiversity crises. They are leading efforts to conserve 30% of lands and oceans by 2030 through the America the Beautiful Initiative, emphasizing inclusivity and amplifying the voices of Indigenous Peoples and local communities, especially young people.

“We recognize the importance of international cooperation in restoring balance to the natural world and are proud of the collaboration between Interior and our conservation partners in Thailand,” said Cantor.

Interior’s Fish and Wildlife Service has granted $3 million to conserve wildlife in Thailand. This funding is crucial for protecting species such as Asian elephants, tigers, and great apes. The grants support habitat restoration in protected areas, reduction of human-wildlife conflict, and efforts to counter wildlife trafficking in Thailand.

The international attaché program supports capacity building and information sharing with the Thai government and regional partners while coordinating international wildlife crime investigations. Senior Special Agent James Markley, the Fish and Wildlife Service’s Attaché based in Bangkok, has worked to support Interior’s wildlife law enforcement partnership with Thailand and neighboring countries.

Markley identified three primary challenges in wildlife conservation:

Cooperation and awareness: Informing and engaging communities is crucial.
Cultural considerations: Addressing the use of wildlife in traditional practices and ceremonies requires sensitivity. “We need to balance conservation efforts with cultural respect, finding alternatives to using wildlife solely for cultural purposes,” Markley explained.
Resource allocation: Despite increased funding support, financial and logistical resources remain a significant hurdle.

“These challenges are interconnected and complex,” Markley added. “While we’ve made progress, especially in funding, these issues continue to require our focused attention and innovative solutions.”

Mr. Godec added that public awareness of illegal wildlife trafficking processes is crucial. “If we understand which animal parts are being trafficked or how animals are being exploited, we can work together more effectively to protect wildlife. Gradually increasing awareness in this area will greatly help our efforts,” he said.

“Students are the strength of the new generation, representing the future and unlimited possibilities. They have a powerful voice in society. Even small actions can make a significant difference. These positive actions have no limits and are only constrained by our imagination,” he said.

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Chinese Robbery Gang Escaped Thailand, Businessman’s Cousin Is Key Suspect

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Khaosod English

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19 July 2024, 13:16

chinese cousin rob3 — A photo taken by the van driver shows the Chinese suspect group standing at the entrance of the Suvarnabhumi airport smoking area. Ms. Tu Peizhi, who resembles a tomboy in a white t-shirt, is among the group in the photo.

CHONBURI — Progress has been made in the investigation into the robbery of a group of Chinese criminals who entered the home of Mr. Qian Peng Yi, a 34-year-old Chinese businessman, tied him up at gunpoint and forced him to transfer 10 million baht. They also pretended to kidnap Ms. Tu Peizhi, 33, Mr. Qian’s cousin.

Chonburi police found that all those involved have fled Thailand, including Ms. Tu, who is suspected of having hired the group to commit the crime in Thailand.

The incident occurred on the night of 17 July 2024 until the early hours of 18 July at Mr. Qian’s house in a luxury village in Soi Laplae, Nong Prue Subdistrict, Bang Lamung District, Chonburi Province. Mr. Qian managed to untie himself and escape, then reported the incident to Nong Prue Police Station. The police investigation revealed that Ms. Tu, Mr. Qian’s cousin, may not have been abducted when she boarded a flight back to China and landed at Hangzhou Airport.

chinese cousin rob2 — Mr. Qian Peng Yi, a 34-year-old Chinese businessman, shows the red marks on his wrists from being tied up during the robbery at his home in Chonburi province.

On 19 July, the investigation team revealed that the three robbers had also left Thailand. A witness, Mr. Un, a 30-year-old van driver, provided information that he had been hired through an agency on 18 July to pick up four passengers from a hotel in Pattaya and take them to Suvarnabhumi Airport for a flight to Chiang Mai. The arrangement was made for 10 p.m. at a fare of 1,500 baht.

Mr. Un stated that he arrived at the hotel at 8 p.m. and waited until 10 p.m. without any passengers showing up. He called the agency who told him that the Chinese clients had asked for a 30-minute delay. After waiting, he called the agency again at 10.40 p.m. and received the same answer.

Finally, at 11.15 p.m., four Chinese people got into his car. He could not tell if they were women, as they were all dressed like men and were each carrying only a backpack. One suspicious person, who was wearing glasses, a white shirt and brown pants, seemed unusually paranoid and kept looking around while clutching a backpack.

chinese cousin rob1 — Police officers search for evidence at the home of Mr. Qian Peng Yi, a 34-year-old Chinese businessman, who was robbed by criminals on July 18ม 2024.

During the ride, the group spoke in Chinese with serious expressions, seemed worried and urged him to go to the airport quickly. Although he had to stop for a toilet break, he drove on until they reached the airport at around 1 a.m. The group paid him 1,800 baht before leaving the vehicle. Mr. Un managed to take a photo of the group standing at the entrance of the airport smoking.

The police identified Ms. Tu, who resembles a tomboy, among the group in the photo. CCTV footage showed the group splitting up to different check-in counters inside the airport. Immigration records revealed that the three male suspects, Mr. Ren Fengyong, 46, Mr. Lin Xingliang, 26, and Mr. Yang Lijian, 41, arrived in Thailand together on 16 July on flight VZ963 from Da Nang, Vietnam, and departed together for Hong Kong on flight HX780 at 2 a.m.

The police suspect that Ms. Tu, who left Suvarnabhumi at 4 a.m. for Hangzhou, Mainland China, hired the three individuals to commit the crime as Mr. Qian’s stolen phone contained transaction apps and codes, with some money already transferred out.

Although all suspects have fled the country, the police are gathering evidence to seek arrest warrants for all four individuals from the Pattaya Provincial Court.

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Wuxia Icon Cheng Pei-pei from Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon Dies at 78

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Khaosod English

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19 July 2024, 12:30

BANGKOK — Cheng Pei-pei, a legendary figure in Chinese action cinema, passed away at the age of 78. She was renowned for her starring roles in two landmark films: King Hu’s influential wuxia classic “Come Drink With Me” and Ang Lee’s critically acclaimed “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon,” which received multiple Oscar nominations.

According to reports from Variety, Cheng’s life came to an end on Thursday, July 18, in the San Francisco Bay area. The cause of death was attributed to a degenerative brain disease. In a final act of contribution to medical science, Cheng had arranged for her brain to be donated for research purposes.

Many Thai film fans who love Chinese and Hong Kong movies learned about Cheng Pei-pei’s news from the “Nine Lonely Swords” Facebook page, an expert source on Chinese and Hong Kong entertainment news. The page also provided detailed information about the actress’s biography and works.

cheng peipei1 — Cheng Pei-pei portrays Jade Fox in ‘Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon,’ her masterpiece performance in Hollywood.

Cheng Pei-pei was born in Shanghai on January 6, 1946, as the eldest of four siblings. Her father worked in the patrol unit in Shanghai. After the war against Japan, he opened China’s first ink factory.

In elementary school, Cheng Pei-pei studied at Shanghai World Elementary School. Later, she studied ballet in Shanghai for six years from junior high school. In 1962, Cheng Pei-pei moved to Hong Kong, and the following year she enrolled in the Shaw Brothers’ acting school. Upon graduation, she immediately signed a contract with Shaw Brothers.

Her first film was “Lovers’ Rock” (1964), written and directed by Lei Pan. This film was selected as the outstanding work from the Best Foreign Language Film category from Taiwan at the 37th Academy Awards but was not nominated.

However, this work received the “Most Promising Movie Star Golden Warrior Award” from the American International Independent Producers Association, making her the first Asian actress to receive this award.

Two years later, Cheng Pei-pei gained immense popularity from the film “Come Drink with Me” (1966) directed by King Hu, which is considered a pioneering work in Hong Kong’s wuxia films of that era. It was one of Shaw Brothers’ international successes, being screened in foreign countries such as New York, Tokyo, and at the Cannes Film Festival. It even had a sequel called “Golden Swallow.” This success earned Cheng Pei-pei the nickname “Queen of Swords.”

King Hu told critic Tony Rayns in an interview that he intentionally chose a ballet dancer for this leading female role because it was crucial for the film. As King Hu placed great importance on fight scenes, having a female actor with a dance background made the action scenes graceful yet fierce and fluid.

cheng peipei3 — “Come Drink with Me” (1966)

Cheng Pei-pei continued to act in several films with Shaw Brothers until 1970 when she withdrew from the film industry and traveled to California, USA, to marry Yuan Dong, a Taiwanese tycoon. After marriage, she entered an American university for higher education and studied dance arts. She had four children: three daughters and one son.

Cheng Pei-pei returned to act in two films for Shaw Brothers and one for Golden Harvest before stopping her acting career in the 70s.

In 1980, Cheng Pei-pei established a television production company called “Xingxiang Communication Co., Ltd.” in Los Angeles, USA, to produce and organize a Chinese-American documentary series titled “Follow the Past and Open the Future” for the Public Broadcasting Service.

In 1981, the news magazine program “60 Minutes” of China Television Company established its first foreign production team in Los Angeles, responsible for special reports on American news events. Cheng Pei-pei was one of the team members during its founding period.

In 1987, Cheng Pei-pei divorced her husband and returned to acting, appearing in “Flirting Scholar” (1993) with Stephen Chow.

Cheng Pei-pei’s fame resurged with her role in “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon” (2000), which earned her the Best Supporting Actress award at the 20th Hong Kong Film Awards.
Afterward, she alternated between film and television roles. In 2018, she received the 24th Huading Award Chinese TV Series Lifetime Achievement Award.

As the first actress to become the iconic image of a female martial arts hero, even as she aged, she continued to appear in films featuring female lead characters. Besides “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon,” she also starred in “Naked Weapon” (2002), “Street Fighter: The Legend of Chun-Li” (2009), and “Mulan” (2020).

Host Cao Kefan announced her death on Weibo, saying: “Every time I met Sister Pei-pei, I was impressed by her laughter. Even when we talked about difficult years in the past, she never complained or lamented. She often communicated in Shanghai dialect, saying that speaking it took her back to her childhood. She said that old Shanghai people had gentle and graceful manners. Her demeanor was very friendly. In recent years, I heard that Sister Pei-pei’s health was not good. I didn’t think she would leave us forever. There will be no pain in heaven. I wish her a good journey!”

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Parking Dispute Leads to Attack on Kuwaiti Tourist in Phuket

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Khaosod English

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18 July 2024, 19:32

PHUKET — A Kuwaiti national was assaulted in front of Central Patong Shopping Mall on Rat-U-Thit 200 Pee Road, Patong, Kathu District, Phuket, and subsequently sent for treatment at Patong Hospital. This incident has sparked criticism regarding the use of excessive violence and the problem of local thuggish influence.

On July 19, Police Colonel Chalermchai Hernsawat, Superintendent of Patong Police Station, disclosed updates on the case. The police have questioned Mr. Turky, a 30-year-old Kuwaiti national who was the victim of the assault, about the incident. They also interviewed Patong Police officers who apprehended the three suspects and conducted drug tests on them, which came back negative.

kuwait phuket1 — Patong Police officers question three suspects on July 16, 2024.

The investigation team reviewed CCTV footage of the incident. On July 15, at approximately 1:46 AM, Mr. Turky was riding a motorcycle with Miss Shalma as a passenger. They parked in the motorcycle parking area in front of Central Patong. After parking, the first suspect, Mr. Jatupol, approached and told him he couldn’t park there as it was reserved for motorcycle taxis.

Then, the second suspect, Mr. Sayumphu, pushed Mr. Turky and punched him. The Kuwaiti man tried to escape and return to his motorcycle, but Mr. Sayumphu followed and punched him in the face again, causing him to fall. At this point, the third suspect, Mr. Thanakorn, also punched the Kuwaiti man, while Mr. Sayumphu kicked him twice before both fled.

kuwait phuket3 — Rescue workers provide aid and take Mr. Turky to the hospital on July 15, 2024.

Later, rescue workers arrived to take Mr. Turky to the hospital. All three suspects were arrested. After they confessed, Patong Police investigators charged them with jointly assaulting another person, causing physical and mental harm. This offense carries a penalty of imprisonment not exceeding two years or a fine not exceeding 40,000 baht, or both.

Regarding the establishment of motorcycle taxi queues in front of the shopping mall, Patong Police officials have notified Phuket Transport to organize and prevent the use of local influence to harm others in the future.

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Suspect in Bangkok Murder Arrested in Hong Kong and Sent to China

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Khaosod English

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18 July 2024, 17:54

Ma Qingyan, 34, the prime suspect in the murder of Miss Yan Ruimin, 38, in Bangkok, has been arrested in Hong Kong.

BANGKOK — Just one day after a Thai court approved an arrest warrant for a Chinese suspect who killed and concealed the body of a woman of the same nationality in Bangkok, Hong Kong authorities reported that the suspect has been arrested.

On July 18, Police Major General Nopsilp Poonsawat, Deputy Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police Bureau, revealed that while Thai police were coordinating with Interpol to track and arrest Mr. Ma Qingyan, 34, the prime suspect in the murder of Miss Yan Ruimin, 38, in Bangkok’s Bang Rak district in early July, Hong Kong authorities had already detained Mr. Ma.

Hong Kong police reported that they have sent Mr. Ma back to China for prosecution. Chinese authorities have been coordinating information with Thai police officers. The Foreign Affairs Division has been proceeding with coordination according to the extradition treaty.

chinese abduct54 — CCTV footage from Sunthon Kosa Road (Khlong Toei Market) shows Miss Yan walking with Mr. Ma, the suspect, on July 1, 2024.

chinese abduct53 — Miss Yan, a 38-year-old Chinese tourist, has been missing in Bangkok since July 1, 2024.

Mr. Ma was issued an arrest warrant on charges including murder and concealing, moving, or destroying a corpse to hide the cause of death. He was the last person to be with Miss Yan before she disappeared.

Mr. Ma was seen on CCTV on July 1 holding Miss Yan’s hand as they walked along Rama IV Road. They returned to their car and left together. Miss Yan disappeared on July 2 in a residence on Sukhumvit Soi 16. Forensic officials found bloodstains on a pillowcase and bed sheet in this house. He fled Thailand on July 3, with evidence showing he traveled to Hong Kong and Macau.

Police Major General Nopsilp Poonsawat, Deputy Commander of the Metropolitan Police Bureau, stated that the police investigation is focusing on personal motives, including a possible love affair.

Previously, Miss Yan’s family had expressed their desire for the case to be transferred to China, where murder carries a maximum penalty of death. Chinese Embassy officials have stated they will coordinate with Chinese authorities to determine whether they will investigate the case themselves or assist in arresting and extraditing the suspect back to Thailand, in accordance with the cooperation agreement between the two countries.

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Long John Silver’s Expands to Thailand with Mega Bangna Debut

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MC Marketing

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18 July 2024, 17:00

(In photo): The Grand Opening of Long John Silver’s will take place this weekend, 19-21 July, 2024. Pictured, Mr. Say Ho Teow, co-founder and board member of Long John Silver’s Thailand (left), together with Mr. Mulyadi Syariffudin, co-founder and board member (right), and Ms. Supasiri Leelapornpinit, Managing Director of Long John Silver’s (Thailand) Company Limited.

Long John Silver’s Now Serving Thailand: A Bounty of Seafood Flavors and New Taste Experiences Available at Mega Bangna

【July 17, 2024－Bangkok】Long John Silver’s, the renowned American quality seafood restaurant chain, has just arrived in Bangkok at the retail paradise that is Mega Bangna. Long John Silver’s presents a veritable tasty bounty of glorious seafood from the finest sources, all cooked to perfection in Long John Silver’s secret recipe batter. The interior of its restaurant provides a warm ambiance, fun vibes and a great spot for social media-savvy photos … so ring the captain’s bell as loud as you want, and join in with all of the launch program fun!

A preview food tasting was held for media guests keen to try the famous seafood presentations, and welcomed invited guests to an exclusive early preview ahead of the restaurant’s official public unveiling which will take place this weekend. Long John Silver’s distinguishes itself by offering sustainably-caught fish of exceptional quality that is wild-caught and responsibly sourced from the cleanest, most sparklingly clear waters, from the pristine oceans of Alaska to the gentle waters off the coast of New Zealand.

Long John Silver’s: our Motto and Customer Promise

“If our seafood were any fresher, you would have to catch them yourself in Alaska!” A specially-trained Thai crew ensures each piece of fish is crisped to perfection, so customers have a wonderful seafood experience – not just in taste, but also creating joyful moments with family and friends. Honorable representatives of the business in Thailand presented welcome speeches, before Long John Silver’s proudly introduced some of its exciting dishes.

With a legacy as rich as the ocean depths, Long John Silver’s embarks on this new voyage across continents, bringing its iconic freshly-battered fish (we like to do things the hard way) to the bustling leisure mall, so discover why it is known as “The world’s favorite seafood restaurant!”

Long John Silver’s: a Heritage of Responsibility, Transparency and Focus on Sourcing

The brand honors its long-established reputation as “the world’s favorite seafood restaurant,” while respecting its role as being a responsible operator which sets the industry benchmark for quality and transparency of its food sourcing – because serving customers starts with serving the sea. The chain works hard on carefully using real seafood from “real sea-places,” so long before sustainability became a buzzword, Long John Silver’s was working with partners who shared the vision of fishing smarter, with less environmental impact.

(In photo): Mr. Mulyadi Syariffudin, one of the co-founders and board members of Long John Silver’s Thailand, revealed the history and success of the Long John Silver’s brand, and introduced some of the new menu standouts in Thailand.

Mr. Mulyadi Syariffudin, one of the co-founders and board members of Long John Silver’s Thailand, revealed the history and success of the Long John Silver’s brand, saying: “We want to bring the best Seafood Experience to Thailand. For us, it is all about going back to quality and sourcing by bringing the best seafood ingredients and customer journey to Thailand. We do that through providing food that is the best in terms of both quality and value. For Thai market appeal, offering quality at such a price is unheard of in Thailand, where the set meal is so reasonably priced and yet is delicious, making even the top quality wild caught fish affordable.”

(In photo): Mr. Say Ho Teow, one of the co-founders and board members of Long John Silver’s Thailand, said in his speech that the company puts a lot of effort into sourcing its seafood; for example, pollock fish which is from Alaska and is wild caught.

Mr. Say Ho Teow, one of the co-founders and board members of Long John Silver’s Thailand, said in his speech: “We put a lot of effort into sourcing our seafood; for example, our pollock is from Alaska and is wild caught via sustainable fishing – sustainable is important to us, as it is good for product quality and the environment. A second example is our chicken that is locally produced and is 100% natural, meaning no hormones, no growth promoter and is antibiotic-free, raised in natural ways. Our restaurant is lively and fun, and focuses on services, offering to break the mold for this type of restaurant in the quick service sector – so we are both new and very different.”

Ms. Supasiri Leelapornpinit, in her role as Managing Director of Long John Silver’s (Thailand) Company Limited, has been instrumental in expanding the business to Thailand. She leverages over 20 years of knowledge and experience in the Food & Beverages industry, taking care of and managing businesses to expand and drive F&B brand strategy. She said to a gathering of enthusiastic media guests, “Long John Silver’s is a very unique offering in the Thai market because we are not competing with any player directly as such; most of the chain restaurant type of food here is only chicken and burgers, so we want to stand out by providing premium seafood on a quick-serve basis. We like to focus on bringing high quality products to all segments of customer, so for LJS we engage and delight all household segments – kids, grandparents, mums and dads, but also working singles and gatherings with groups of friends. We create exceptional everyday food as an alternative choice that’s very different to what people are familiar with, a more exciting and very much a great value option.”

(In photo): At Long John Silver’s, several dishes were presented to media guests during the preview occasion, with many more on offer to customers following the official opening at the weekend. Some standouts are highlighted below.

Fish Combo – 189 THB – This crispy fish delicacy is soft on the inside and gently crispy, served with perfectly cooked fried potatoes.

Chicken and Shrimp Combo – 179 THB – A perfect pairing of fried chicken and fried shrimp, served with crispy waffle potatoes. Anyone who likes both chicken and shrimp will definitely love this dish which combines these two classic favorites.

Cream Pasta with Salmon – 269 THB – One of the special features of this dish is the creamy sauce that is beautifully light and blends well with the freshest salmon.

Bucket Shrimp – 189 THB – A shrimp dish that has been seasoned with spices and special seasonings of Long John Silver’s own specialty recipe, making the flavor mellow overall, and matched with the shrimp meat perfectly.

Join us and a new generation of fans to experience delicious seafood, plus unmissable launch promotions available only during the public unveiling weekend:

Buy any Fried Combo and get one free.*
The first 200 customers each day who make any purchase and like any of our pages on FB/IG/TikTok will receive a free canvas bag valued at 400 THB.
Share about Long John Silver’s on social media and receive a free ice cream.

The Mega Bangna location officially opens from the 19th to 21st July (the ‘launch period’) and will be in full operation from then. Further images of the restaurant design, layout, vibe and friendly staff are presented below:

To find out more details on the launch event or the Long John Silver’s brand in Thailand,

For more information, visit our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/ljsthailand?locale=th_TH

Restaurant Address: https://g.co/kgs/KpJ2b35

College of Industrial Technology, KMUTNB Welcomes Exchange Students from France

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MC Marketing

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18 July 2024, 16:58

The College of Industrial Technology, KMUTNB, welcomes exchange students from France to expand international research collaboration

Associate Professor Dr. Smith Songpiriyakij, Dean of the College of Industrial Technology, King Mongkut’s University of Technology North Bangkok (KMUTNB), together with Associate Professor Dr. Rattanakorn Phadungthin, Associate Dean for International and Special Affairs, welcome exchange students from 4 Universities: the Republic of France, namely CESI Engineering School, Polytech Dijon, Polytech Nantes, and CNAM (Conservatoire National des Arts et Métiers), to participate in internships to learn research work at the College of Industrial Technology on July 11, 2024. It is a period of time as specified by each project. This is in accordance with the signing of the MOU to exchange students with each other.

The purpose is to provide students with the opportunity to expand their educational World and learn cultural differences with a broad vision and mental strength to be aware of differences in lifestyles and different cultural concepts. In addition, they can develop language and communication skills with the ability to solve problems and are able to work in a team for their future careers.

S Hotels & Resorts and Singha Estate Form a Strategic Partnership

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MC Marketing

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18 July 2024, 16:53

Companies sign major new partnership to strengthen and enhance their portfolio strategies, in an industry first for two leading Asian hotel groups in the UK

Pictured: Thitima Rungkwansiriroj, CEO of Singha Estate (third right) presents the strategic collaboration agreement with Kevin Goh, CEO of The Ascott Limited (third left), with Michael Marshall, CEO of S Hotels & Resorts (second right) and Wong Kar Ling, Ascott’s Chief Strategy Officer and Managing Director for Southeast Asia (second left). Also present are Issarin Patramai, CFO of S Hotels & Resorts (far right), and Serena Lim, Ascott’s Chief Growth Officer (far left).”

For Immediate Release 2 July 2024

BANGKOK, THAILAND: S Hotels and Resorts PCL (SET: SHR), a subsidiary of Singha Estate PCL (SET: S), a leading international development company, has announced a strategic partnership with The Ascott Limited (SGX: Ascott), a wholly owned lodging business unit of CapitaLand Investment (SGX: CLI).

The collaboration between S Hotels & Resorts and Ascott marks the first time that two leading Asian hospitality brands have formed a strategic alliance. It is a significant step forward in S Hotels & Resorts’ strategy to strengthen its portfolio in the UK, whilst also enabling Ascott’s expansion in Europe. Looking ahead, the two companies hope to broaden their collaboration in other countries.

The UK is S Hotels & Resorts’ largest market, in terms of portfolio size, with 25 hotels comprising 2,678 keys nationwide. As such, this strategic partnership will play a major role in contributing to the diversification of the company’s portfolio and sustainable revenue growth, helping the company to achieve its target of THB 11 billion (approx. USD 299 million) in total full-year revenue in 2024.

Ms. Thitima Rungkwansiriroj, Chief Executive Officer, Singha Estate PCL, commented: “We are excited to partner with Ascott to enhance our presence in the UK and provide our discerning guests with exceptional experiences through international management for hotels located in strategic locations. This will lead to market expansion both domestically and internationally, ultimately resulting in sustainable financial returns. This partnership will strengthen our position as a leading international investment and development company.”

Mr. Michael Marshall, Chief Executive Officer, S Hotels & Resorts, said: “This is an important step forward in our business strategy, as we continue to broaden our portfolio by introducing international brands to the UK market and creating new opportunities for growth.”

Mr Kevin Goh, Chief Executive Officer, Ascott Limited, said: “As an Asia-based hospitality company with 40 years of track record, our strong relationships with owners in this region has been key to Ascott’s success. We look forward to bolstering our partnership network by forging new relationships with owners and strengthening ties with existing ones as we chart Ascott’s global expansion.”

Ms. Serena Lim, Chief Growth Officer, Ascott Limited, added: “We are delighted to partner with Singha Estate and S Hotels & Resorts to expand Ascott’s portfolio in the UK. Ascott’s commitment to growing its presence in strategic locations worldwide is closely aligned with our partners’ ambition to expand their hospitality portfolio through innovative and high-quality developments. This partnership not only marks the fast-tracked growth of our brand footprint into new destinations, but also reiterates the confidence that owners have in Ascott.”

Thai Team Switches Controversy Uniform to Grand Sport Jackets for Olympics

By

Khaosod English

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18 July 2024, 16:09

thai-team-suit3-new — Popor Sapsiree Taerattanachai models the Songsamai suit (left) and the Grand Sport jacket for the Thai national team at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games

BANGKOK — As the 33rd Olympic Games in Paris, France, draw near, from July 26 to August 11, a hot topic concerning the Thai national team has emerged. Surprisingly, it isn’t about the athletes’ preparations but rather the design of their ceremonial uniform.

The controversy began when the ceremonial uniforms with the traditional Thai patterns were introduced. Critics mocked the design, calling it outdated and comparing it to the dress of local government officials, some even likening it to a waiter’s uniform.

On 19 July, Thailand’s top mixed doubles badminton player Popor Sapsiree Taerattanachai, who modeled the ceremonial uniform, responded to the criticism with a smiling emoji, a heart, a peace sign and the Thai flag.

thai team suit1 — Popor Sapsiree Taerattanachai FACEBOOK page

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin replied reporters on this issue: ‘It’s all a question of individual taste. Some may say my shirt is outdated, others may find it beautiful. Let’s focus on more important things.’

Mr. Thana Chaiprasit, head of the Thai national athletes’ delegation, explained that the purpose of creating this suit was to promote Thai fabric. The Olympic Committee of Thailand, under General Prawit Wongsuwan’s direction, commissioned Songsamai Shop, Saphan Sung Hi branch, an old and established Thai tailoring shop, to design and tailor the suits.

They have been using this shop’s services for no less than 20 years. The suits will only be worn for royal audiences and during the opening and closing ceremonies.

However, after receiving criticism, Mr. Thana stated that the athletic team is planning to make adjustments and improvements for better suitability. Additionally, considering that Paris is quite hot and athletes need to cruise along the Seine River during the opening ceremony, they will likely use the warm-up suits from Grand Sport.

vnl 3 — Thiti Phruekcha-um, Vice President of Grand Sport Group and Mr. Thana Chaiprasit, head of the Thai national athletes’ delegation (center) jointly announce the launch of the athletes’ uniforms for the Paris Games, featuring patterns from Ban Chiang art, on June 18, 2024.

thai team suit2 — Ban Chiang pottery patterns appear on the Grand Sport jacket.

This solution seems to align with the opinion of many internet users who suggested that the Thai national team switch to wearing jackets from Grand Sport company instead.

Previously, in response to the criticism, the prime minister praised the design team of Grand Sport for incorporating Ban Chiang art from Udon Thani — a UNESCO World Heritage Site — into the uniforms.

Thiti Phruekcha-um, Vice President of Grand Sport Group, the official uniform supplier, explained that the design concept “Be Our Spirit” aims to blend Thai heritage with global elements. The collaboration involved the Creative Textile and Design Center (FTCDC) at Udon Thani Rajabhat University, the Ban Chiang Museum, and the local Ban Chiang community, focusing on traditional weaving and dyeing techniques.

Grand Sport also emphasizes sustainability by using carbon-neutral fabrics produced with green energy and made from recycled plastic bottles. The jerseys are made from flexible, lightweight Micro Spandex and Poly Spandex as well as easy-care Polymild fabric with antibacterial technology for athlete hygiene.

“The Olympic Games are being watched by the whole world. We have made sure that the uniforms fit perfectly and allow the athletes to perform at their best,” said Thiti.

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