Several housing projects in Phuket have been affected, some of which are still flooded.
PHUKET — In response, a major clean-up operation has been organized to restore the areas affected by the floods, Phuket has declared disaster areas in two districts, Kathu and Thalang, affecting a total of 1,468 people.
The southwest monsoon depression caused flooding and disasters in Kathu and Thalang districts of Phuket on June 30, 2024, resulting in extensive damage to human lives, physical well-being, property, houses, agricultural land, fisheries, livestock, and public facilities. The affected area covers seven sub-districts, 41 villages, four communities, and 740 households.
Phuket organized a major clean-up operation to help residents affected by the flood disaster in the Kamala Subdistrict Administrative Organization in Kathu district on July 1, 2024.
Although the situation in most areas began to normalize on 1 July, Muu 4 and Muu 6 in Thepkrasattri sub-district remained flooded. The Governor of Phuket, Sophon Suwannarat, declared these two districts disaster areas requiring emergency relief. In Kathu district, 45 people from 50 households were affected, in Thalang district 1,423 people from 690 households.
At the same time, Phuket organized a major clean-up operation to help residents affected by the flood disaster in the Kamala Subdistrict Administrative Organization in Kathu district. Volunteers cleaned streets and houses to quickly restore normality.
The Governor emphasized the importance of monitoring the flooded areas and taking appropriate measures as the locations of the floods have shifted due to the construction of numerous housing estates. Additional water pumps were installed to enable faster drainage. The rainfall amounted to 310 mm and led to considerable flooding due to the narrow drainage channels.
In Kathu district, 45 people from 50 households were affected, in Thalang district 1,423 people from 690 households.
The province of Phuket continues to operate an emergency command center and is closely monitoring the situation. Affected residents are urged to seek assistance from local authorities and take precautions against health risks and electrical problems in flooded buildings.
Prachachat Business reported that several housing projects have been affected, some of which are still flooded. Residents have requested assistance for the following projects through Line messaging groups.
Two housing projects that are still flooded are:
Pruksa Ville Thalang-Thepkrasattri housing project (Ban Prusamphan): This project is located on Ban Prusamphan Road in Thepkrasattri sub-district, Thalang district.
The townhouse complex is about 1.1 kilometers from Thepkrasattri Road, a major artery of Phuket. Residents reported that they bought houses for 4 million baht each and have experienced eight floods in five years.
The Governor leads heads of government agencies and relevant departments in a ‘Big Cleaning Day’ operation to assist residents in disaster-affected areas on July 1, 2024.
Passorn Koh Kaew Village: Located at 33 Koh Kaew Avenue, Thepkrasattri Road, Koh Kaew Sub-district, Mueang Phuket District. The village suffered severe damage when a 2 meter high dam collapsed and sent mud and debris into the village.
The Royal Thai Navy’s Third Naval Area Command has provided personnel and equipment to assist and restore normalcy, including traffic control on Thepkrasattri Road.
Cyber police officers arrest suspects in a Euro 2024 football betting network.
BANGKOK — The Euro 2024 football tournament has reached its halfway, while the Thai cyber police continue their ongoing operations to crack down on football betting websites. Suspects connected to Chinese football betting website networks have been arrested in both the northern and southern regions of Thailand.
On July 1, 2024, Pol. Lt. Gen. Worawat Watnakornbancha, commissioner of the Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau, ordered a team of cyber police officers to arrest suspects in a Euro 2024 football betting network.
The suspects arrested in Mae Sot district, Tak province, are: Mr. Narawut Jainiou, 47; Ms. Napassorn Thapthong, 40; Mr. Siradanai Phanthamit, 24; and Mr. Phuthisan Chanpeng, 23
Additionally, two suspects were arrested in Trang province: Mr. Narong Kaewkert Sreeyam, 49, in Yan Ta Khao district; and Ms. Treenet Duangsood, 40, in Kantang district.
They are charged with “cooperating in organizing gambling or fraudulent schemes, advertising or directly or indirectly soliciting gambling through electronic media without permission from the authorities, conspiring with two or more people to commit money laundering, and committing money laundering based on the conspiracy.”
Cyber police officers arrest suspects in a Euro 2024 football betting network.
At the end of June, investigators from the Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau, Division 3, launched Operation called “SHUTDOWN EURO BET,” which targeted two locations of a Chinese online gambling network.
The first location was at house number 333/3 in the luxurious Courtyard Village, Thonglor area, Saeng Thong Alley, Khlong Tan Nuea Subdistrict, Watthana District, Bangkok.
They arrested Mr. Xiang Zhang, 42, and Ms. Zhang Huiqing, 37, a Chinese couple profiting from the network. Seized were 11 title deeds, 13.8 million baht in cash, 3,200 US dollars, 25,400 Chinese yuan, a Bentley car worth 20 million baht, a Mercedes-Benz car worth 3 million baht, a GWM Tank 500 car worth 2 million baht and a house purchase contract worth 88 million baht. In addition, 86.7 million baht was frozen in bank accounts, totaling assets of over 260 million baht.
The second location was a luxury room at Center Point Residence, Phrom Phong area, Sukhumvit 39 Alley, Khlong Tan Nuea Subdistrict, Watthana District, Bangkok. They arrested three people involved in the network: Mr. Jun Xia, 36, a Chinese national, who was responsible for the money laundering, Mr. Chokchai Saeyin, 29, Mr. Poom Mesdee, 46, Mr. Jaturong Saeyang, 29, and Mr. Pubet Saechen, 27, who was responsible for the money withdrawals.
Among the items seized were five Toyota Alphards worth approximately 20 million baht, 2.26 million baht in cash, foreign banknotes worth 50,000 baht, a Mac Pro computer, eight cell phones and a motorcycle with a total value of over 22 million baht.
As part of this operation, arrest warrants were issued for 64 people involved in the network. Seven key figures were arrested, including three Chinese executives who profited from the network and four Thai nationals who were responsible for money laundering and financial management. Six more members, including Narawut Jainiou, were arrested in this latest operation, bringing the total number of arrests to 13.
The authorities are still trying to locate the remaining members of the network and expand their financial investigation to seize all related assets for legal proceedings.
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AIS customers can enjoy the best services nationwide, with 5G network best quality and No 1 network in Thailand guaranteed by Ookla® in 2023 and Open Signal in 2024. These independent organizations have recognized AIS 5G as the fastest and best 5G network in Thailand. AIS now offers 95% of Thailand’s population coverage nationwide, holding the most spectrum across low, mid, and high bands, totaling over 1460 MHz.
In addition to exceptional digital services, AIS offers exclusive benefits through its points platform, connecting partner stores nationwide. Customers can redeem 1 point for special offers, including free items, discounts, and upgrades. The more you use and transfer points, the more rewards you receive, redeemable across Thailand.
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Pratthana emphasized, ” Our latest campaign, ‘Truly Reliable Nationwide, Fast Network,’ aims to communicate AIS’s commitment to quality service, offering the best digital experience with truly heartfeltnetwork performance and exclusive benefits. We are thrilled to welcome Jung and Cullen as part of the AIS family, collaborating to create content that shares their favorite activities through excellent network experiences and exclusive partner benefits from AIS Points.”
Watch the AIS 5G “Truly Reliable Nationwide, Fast Network” campaign content at https://m.ais.co.th/VYHzp9Dh9
England's Jude Bellingham, left, celebrates his goal with Harry Kane during a round of sixteen match between England and Slovakia at the Euro 2024 soccer tournament in Gelsenkirchen, Germany, Sunday, June 30, 2024. (AP Photo/Matthias Schrader)
Both England and Spain conceded first in their Euro 2024 round of 16 matches, but the two giants managed to come from behind to win and advance to the quarterfinals in their games on Sunday, June 30.
Bellingham and Kane send England to quarterfinals of Euro 2024 after 2-1 comeback win over Slovakia
GELSENKIRCHEN, Germany (AP) — Jude Bellingham scored a stunning overhead kick with only seconds left to help England avoid one of the most shocking defeats in the history of the European Championship on Sunday.
The midfielder’s acrobatic strike in the fifth minute of stoppage time leveled the round-of-16 game against Slovakia at 1-1. Harry Kane struck again in the first minute of extra time at the Veltins Arena to secure a 2-1 comeback win and a place in the quarterfinals where England will play Switzerland in Duesseldorf on Saturday.
England’s Jude Bellingham, right, scores his side’s first goal with an overhead kick during a round of sixteen match between England and Slovakia at the Euro 2024 soccer tournament in Gelsenkirchen, Germany, Sunday, June 30, 2024. (AP Photo/Ebrahim Noroozi)
“I think it was 20 seconds until we were out of the European Championship,” Bellingham said. “It’s hard to deny that it was one of the most important moments of my career so far.”
For so long it looked like being one of the most humbling defeats England had ever suffered — bringing back memories of its elimination at the hands of Iceland at Euro 2016 — as one of the pre-tournament favorites trailed Ivan Schranz’s 25th-minute goal for 45th-ranked Slovakia.
Boos rang around the stadium in the first half as frustration grew among fans.
England needed to improve in the second half. Phil Foden had a goal ruled out by VAR, Kane headed wide from close range and Declan Rice hit the post in the 81st.
With seconds remaining on the clock, Bellingham’s moment of inspiration came.
Kyle Walker launched a long throw from the right and Marc Guehi leapt to flick the ball on.
It was behind Bellingham in the middle of the box, but in a flash he readjusted his body and executed a perfect overhead kick, sending the ball in to the bottom corner to leave Slovakia goalkeeper Martin Dubravka rooted on his line as he watched it nestle into the back of the net.
England’s Harry Kane, centre, scores his side’s second goal during a round of sixteen match between England and Slovakia at the Euro 2024 soccer tournament in Gelsenkirchen, Germany, Sunday, June 30, 2024. (AP Photo/Ebrahim Noroozi)
“I had a funny feeling the game wasn’t dead and I know that sounds ridiculous. We were pushing and probing,” England manager Gareth Southgate said. “Ultimately it is the one we have thrown in the box that got us the goal.”
Bellingham’s goal was England’s first shot on target in the match.
It didn’t have to wait long for its second as Kane headed home to score his seventh goal in his last seven knockout games at major tournaments. It was also a record-extending 65th for his country.
England – ranked fifth in the world – hasn’t won a major tournament since its only triumph at the World Cup in 1966.
“We haven’t come to get to a quarterfinal, but to get through a night like tonight was fantastic character and we now play a Swiss team that have been very good,” Southgate said. “We have a couple of days to recover and get ready for them.”
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Spain beats Georgia 4-1 to reach Euro 2024 quarterfinals. It next plays host Germany
COLOGNE, Germany (AP) — Spain recovered from conceding an early own-goal to beat Georgia 4-1 for a spot in the Euro 2024 quarterfinals, ending one of the tournament’s most compelling underdog stories.
Goals from midfielders Rodri and Fabián Ruiz brought Spain back into the game after Robin Le Normand’s own-goal in the 18th minute had given Georgia a shock lead. Nico Williams and Dani OImo took the game out of Georgia’s reach with two more goals late in the game as heavy rain fell.
Spain will play host nation Germany in the quarterfinals on Friday in Stuttgart.
Georgia’s Sandro Altunashvili walks as Spain’s Dani Olmo celebrates with team mates after scoring his side’s fourth goal during a round of sixteen match between Spain and Georgia at the Euro 2024 soccer tournament in Cologne, Germany, Sunday, June 30, 2024. (AP Photo/Darko Vojinovic)
The loss ends Georgia’s first ever major tournament campaign, which included a 2-0 upset win over Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal.
Despite the lopsided score, Georgia goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili had another standout game with nine saves to prevent a rout.
Spain had beaten Georgia 7-1 in qualifying last year, but this game was a close contest until the last 20 minutes and testament to Georgia’s rapid improvement under coach Willy Sagnol.
Playing its fourth game of Euro 2024, Spain had yet to concede a goal all tournament.
That soon changed when Otar Kakabadze surged down the right flank for Georgia and crossed low. Le Normand chested the ball past his own goalkeeper, with the defender apparently distracted by Khvicha Kvaratskhelia arriving behind him to meet the cross.
Spain took its time to get back into the game, but Rodri — back from a one-game suspension — leveled the score in the 39th with a low shot from just outside the box.
Spain’s Lamine Yamal ceelbrates a goal that was disallowed fro an offside during a round of sixteen match between Spain and Georgia at the Euro 2024 soccer tournament in Cologne, Germany, Sunday, June 30, 2024. (AP Photo/Manu Fernandez)Spain’s Nico Williams celebrates after scoring his side’s 3rd goal against Georgia during a round of sixteen match at the Euro 2024 soccer tournament in Cologne, Germany, Sunday, June 30, 2024. (AP Photo/Frank Augstein)
Georgia remained a threat on the counter, including with an audacious shot from the halfway line by Kvaratskhelia, but Spain midfielder Ruiz made it 2-1 in the 51st when he rose unmarked to meet a cross from the 16-year-old Lamine Yamal.
Needing a goal, Georgia had to open up its compact defensive formation and conceded twice more as Williams scored in the 75th and substitute Olmo eight minutes later.
After the final whistle, Georgia’s players gathered in front of their fans for a slow-clap chant reminiscent of another European Championship underdog — Iceland — when it beat England in 2016.
BANGKOK — Sahapat Group aims to develop the Rama 3 area with two partners, “Tokyu Corporation” and “Dusit Thani,” including “King Square Residence” and “Dusit Suite King Square Bangkok.”
Mr. Chakkrit Santiratanakul, Managing Director of King Square Development Company Limited, said: “Sahapat Group has an idea to develop the area in Rama 3 into a place where everyone wants to live under the concept of ‘Community of Kindness’ by creating good living conditions and society.
This makes this location have complete facilities in every aspect, including residences, condominiums, community malls, schools, and workplaces to attract people of diverse nationalities and cultures to live together.
The origin of the joint venture between Saha Group and Tokyu Corporation is to develop a luxury condominium project under the name ‘King Square Residence,’ which has now begun construction.
Saha Group joins hands with 2 partners “Tokyu-Dusit Thani” to penetrate the real estate business.
“Since September 2023, we have announced a collaboration with Dusit Thani, which has expertise in services and hotels. They will become a part of the management within the project, providing superior service by the Dusit Hospitality Services team to additional customers in the future when completed,” said Chakkrit.
In addition, Saha Group has entered into a joint venture with “Tokyu Corporation” to develop the Dusit Suite King Square Bangkok project, which will be both a serviced apartment and a hotel designed with a Thai flavor. It blends perfectly with the present era, with Dusit Thani managing the hospitality aspect as well. The investment value, including projects, is more than 10,000 million baht.
Mr. Hirohisa Fujiwara, Director & Senior Managing Executive Officer of Tokyu Corporation, said that Tokyu is a leader in urban and real estate development in Japan, with experience in both residential projects and commercial properties such as shopping centers, department stores, office buildings, and hotels. It also invests in and manages real estate portfolios to increase long-term value, including providing consulting and comprehensive property management services.
King Square ResidenceTokyu Corporation
In addition, Tokyu Corporation has been a partner with the Saha Group for a long time. They have been working together in real estate business since 2014, starting with a housing project for Japanese people in Sriracha District, Chonburi Province.
Later, they studied the feasibility of a project in the Rama 3 area and saw an opportunity to develop it to respond to the needs of the target group around King’s College International School, Bangkok, which became an important collaboration.
“To develop the King Square Residence project and the Dusit Suite King Square Bangkok project, both parties are confident that this cooperation will be successful,” he said.
Mrs. Suphajee Suthumpun, Chief Executive Officer of Dusit Thani Public Company Limited, said that Dusit Thani Group is one of the leaders in travel and hotel services in Southeast Asia. Its business covers five areas: hotel business, education business, food business, real estate development business, and other related service businesses.
“We are very pleased to bring more than 75 years of experience and expertise in the hotel business and related services to help manage the Dusit Suite King Square Bangkok project, which is both a hotel and serviced apartments that match the needs of both Thai and foreign customers looking for quality relaxation,” she said.
Police officers take the Burmese suspect to reenact his confession at the dormitory in Na Di Subdistrict, Mueang District, Samut Sakhon Province on June 30, 2024.
SAMUT SAKHON — Another case of Burmese workers being murdered in Thailand occurred this week. While the perpetrator in the first case has not been apprehended, an arrest was quickly made in the second case.
On June 30, Samut Sakhon City Police Station officers took Mr. Kyaw Yaw Min Oo, a 33-year-old Myanmar national, to reenact his confession of intentionally murdering a fellow countryman.
Samut Sakhon City Police Station received a report at approximately 7:05 p.m. on June 29 about a murder at a three-story green dormitory, room 109, Moo 4, Na Di Subdistrict, Mueang District, Samut Sakhon Province. Workers in the opposite room noticed a foul odor coming from the room and informed their supervisor, who then notified the dormitory owner. The room was forced open, revealing the body.
Police officers take the Burmese suspect to reenact his confession at the dormitory’s room in Na Di Subdistrict, Mueang District, Samut Sakhon Province on June 30, 2024.
The deceased was identified as Mr. Yan Naing Aung, a 33-year-old Myanmar national, with multiple stab wounds to the back of his neck. A pointed knife was found near the body. It was estimated that he had been dead for about a week.
The investigation team later tracked down the suspect, who was found hiding near Doem Bang Road, Mahachai Subdistrict, Mueang District, Samut Sakhon Province, and brought him in for questioning.
Kyaw Yaw Min Oo confessed to committing the crime on the evening of June 26 after an argument with Yan Naing Aung, who refused to let him stay in the room. A fight ensued, during which he grabbed Yan Naing Aung’s knife. When Yan Naing Aung fell to the floor, the suspect repeatedly struck the victim’s head with the knife before locking the room and fleeing.
The arresting officers charged Kyaw Yaw Min Oo with intentional murder before handing him over to investigators for further legal proceedings.
Previously, there was another case of a Burmese person being murdered at a construction workers’ camp in a housing project in Moo 3, Takhian Tia Subdistrict, Bang Lamung District, Chonburi Province, at 11:30 p.m. on June 25. As of now, the police have not identified any suspects in this case.
This case has raised significant suspicion among officials as to why the entire group of foreign workers disappeared from the camp without waiting for authorities to investigate and question them. This has led to doubts about whether these foreign workers were legally employed in Thailand.
A construction workers’ camp in a housing project in Moo 3, Takhian Tia Subdistrict, Bang Lamung District, Chonburi Province
Pattaya City Police arrive to control the chaotic situation on South Pattaya Road and immediately take all parties involved to the police station on June 29, 2024.
PATTAYA— Two Indian men beat up their fellow countryman in the middle of Pattaya street, ignoring onlookers in a tourist area. Local residents stated that this is a frequent occurrence of violent incidents in this area.
Residents in South Pattaya are calling for police to increase measures to prevent tourist fights in the area after another video of a brawl was recorded. This time, two Indian men were seen repeatedly punching and beating their compatriot dressed in black in the middle of the street, witnessed by bystanders. A Thai woman, believed to be the girlfriend of one of the Indian men, rushed in to intervene.
It was later learned that the incident occurred at 6:10 a.m. on June 29, in front of the Marine Plaza Hotel near the entrance of Soi 16, South Pattaya. This area is bustling with tourists throughout the day and night, as this street leads to Pattaya Walking Street. The area is mostly occupied by Indian and Arabic restaurants.
Two Indian men are seen repeatedly punching and beating their compatriot dressed in black in the middle of the street on June 29, 2024.
One witness said that when the incident occurred, he was sitting across the street waiting for passengers. He saw a group of Indians arguing, but at that time, there was no physical altercation. He considered it normal, as tourists, especially Indians, often get drunk and argue in the area. He didn’t pay much attention, but when he turned back, the Indian group had started fighting as seen in the video clip.
He said the cause of the fight was unknown. Shortly after, Pattaya City Police arrived to control the chaotic situation and immediately took all parties involved to the police station.
A reporter inquired with the Pattaya Police Station and learned that the two men were charged with fighting in public. According to Section 372 of the Criminal Code, anyone who noisily quarrels in public places or otherwise causes a disturbance in public places shall be punished with a fine not exceeding 5,000 baht.
An altercation occurred involving two Vietnamese men who were seen assaulting a fellow countryman in public. The violent incident, which included punching and kicking, resulted in injuries to the victim and took place in full view of both local residents and tourists on South Pattaya Road.
PHUKET — BDMS Wellness Clinic, Thailand’s leading preventive healthcare provider, has announced a significant collaboration with Bangkok Hospital Phuket and Laguna Phuket to launch BDMS Wellness Clinic Laguna Phuket.
The newest branch of BDMS Wellness Clinic aims to enhance wellness tourism and reinforce BDMS Wellness Clinic’s leadership in developing the wellness economic corridor in the Andaman region.
On June 20, 2024, three key business partners shared their visions for the future of wellness tourism in Phuket, marking a significant step forward in the development of the Andaman Wellness Economic Corridor project.
The collaboration is led by Tanupol Virunhagarun, M.D., Chief Executive Officer of BDMS Wellness Clinic and BDMS Wellness Resort, Bangkok Dusit Medical Services Public Company Limited; Narintara Boonjongcharoen, M.D., Chief Executive Officer of BDMS Group 6; and Mr. Ho Kwon Ping, Chairman of the Board and Executive Chairman of the Group, Laguna Resorts & Hotels Public Company Limited.
Three key business partners
Tanupol discussed the growth of the medical tourism industry in Thailand. He stated that in 2019, before the global tourism industry was halted due to the spread of the virus, Thailand’s medical tourism market was ranked 7th in the world with a value of 17 billion US dollars, or more than 610 billion baht.
He further noted that medical tourism in Thailand has gradually recovered from 2020 to 2022, with a growth rate of up to 36%.
“The construction of the new clinic in Laguna Phuket will be a testament to our commitment to making Phuket a leading health destination in Thailand and the Andaman region. This aligns with the approval of the new Medical Treatment Visa, valid for 1 year, to meet the needs of foreign tourists seeking healthcare and medical treatment. For those who want to relax amidst the beautiful nature and sea of Phuket, BDMS Wellness Clinic specializes in world-class preventive healthcare and personalized wellness programs,” he said.
Mr. Ho Kwon Ping shared his vision that Phuket holds tremendous potential as a wellness destination. Our collaboration aims to provide luxury wellness services that will attract tourists globally, significantly contributing to the local economy.
“We envision Phuket as a leading global wellness destination, blending world-class tourism facilities with BDMS Wellness Clinic’s innovative wellness programs,” he said.
Narintara said the BDMS Group’s goal is to deliver the highest quality preventive and rejuvenating services. The BDMS Wellness Clinic Laguna Phuket will cater not only to tourists but also to the local community, ensuring comprehensive wellness coverage across Phuket and the Andaman region,” Dr. Narintara remarked.
Strategic Vision for Wellness Tourism in Phuket
Holistic Wellness Offerings: The clinic will feature a diverse range of wellness services, including yoga and meditation retreats, traditional Thai healing practices, fitness programs, nutritional counseling, and spa treatments using locally sourced, natural ingredients.
Sustainability Commitment: Emphasizing sustainable practices, the clinic aims to protect Phuket’s natural environment and cultural heritage, linking true wellness to environmental health.
Community Engagement: By actively engaging with local businesses and organizations, the clinic aims to foster economic growth, cultural exchange, and social development.
Collaboration and Innovation: The clinic seeks partnerships with leading experts and organizations to create cutting-edge wellness programs, setting new industry standards.
Education and Awareness: Offering workshops, seminars, and retreats, the clinic aims to empower individuals with knowledge and tools for healthier lifestyles.
Tanupol Virunhagarun, M.D., Chief Executive Officer of BDMS Wellness Clinic and BDMS Wellness Resort, Bangkok Dusit Medical Services Public Company Limited
Contribution to Wellness Tourism
The BDMS Wellness Clinic Laguna Phuket is set to play a crucial role in promoting health and medical tourism in Thailand. This initiative aims to attract international visitors, boost the local economy, and create more job opportunities by positioning Phuket as a comprehensive healthcare center.
The clinic will offer various services, including preventive check-ups, vitamin therapy, hormone screening, and facial treatments, integrating traditional Thai hospitality with advanced medical science.
Economic Impact
The collaboration between BDMS Wellness Clinic, Bangkok Hospital Phuket, and Laguna Phuket is expected to significantly impact Phuket’s economy by attracting high-spending wellness tourists, creating job opportunities, and promoting sustainable practices that benefit the local community and environment.
Foreign minister Maris Sangiampongsa delivers a statement during the BRICS Ministers of Foreign Affairs/International Relations Meeting in Nizhny Novgorod, Russia on June 11, 2024. Photo: Ministry of Foreign Affairs / Facebook
The Thai government controversially submitted an application to join BRICS earlier this month – is it a MISTAKE and a DISASTER?
Well, the timing was awkward, if not bad, considering that Russia, a key BRICS member, is still waging a full-scale war against Ukraine and an arrest warrant against Russian President Vladimir Putin has been issued by the International Criminal Court.
It seems the Srettha government (or de facto Thaksin government) cannot and would not wait, however, as Thailand needs to revive its economy. One way of doing this is to engage with countries beyond the Western’s immediate sphere of influence. Joining BRICS will deepen Thailand’s economic and political ties with not just Russia, but other major countries like India, Brazil, South Africa, and the United Arab Emirates.
This writer does not need to spell out how important China is to Thailand, considering its contribution to the Thai tourism industry, trade, and people-to-people exchanges. But we need to look further. India is one country Thailand can definitely deepen its ties in a mutually beneficial manner. The size of its economy is projected to surpass that of Japan next year and it is the most populous nation on earth.
According to the CIA World Factbook 2024-2025, India’s median age is only 28.7 years (compared to Thailand’s 41), so it will most likely keep on growing and it means more potential Indian tourists to Thailand. Currently it is, on and off, among the top five foreign visitors to Thailand and there is no reason why it cannot grow five to 10-fold in the years ahead as it has 1.4 billion people.
Brazil can serve as a gateway for Thailand to engage closer with the Central and South American countries. Brazil alone has 218 million people. The same can be said about South Africa. We can do much more than selling rice to countries in the African continent, which is almost like terra incognita to most Thais and there is so much to learn, to exchange, to grow, and to bond. Here, BRICS will be another alternative platform for Thailand to engage with countries outside the U.S. orbit.
It is right that Thailand recognizes and is part of the creation and growth of a multipolar world. Pax Americana is in decline, if not nearly over, and the sooner Thai people recognize this and adjust to a new geopolitical reality the better.
Clearly, Thailand’s joining BRICS will come at a price, but America has never fully trusted Thailand and our relationship with the United States has been far from equal or mutually beneficial. In the past, the Cold War saw the U.S. propping up one Thai military dictator after another, resulting in the rogue Thai becoming a state within a state up to the present and ready to stage more military coups when opportunity arises.
This is chiefly ‘thanks’ to America’s unwavering support and use of Thai military regimes to repel communism threats, real or imagined, in Indochina. Today, it is clear the U.S. does not really trust us. That is why in May 2023, the Americans refused to sell two of its top-of-the-range F-35 fighter jets to Thailand, citing training, technical requirements, and inability to deliver new ones for at least 10 years.
Less than a year later, in February 2024, Singapore’s Straits Times reported its air force will acquire not just one or two, but eight F-35 jets, which will be delivered in 2030. So, I guess it did not really take 10 years to deliver these expensive toys that cost upward of 82 million dollars a pop.
Not that I think Thailand needs F-35 or more F-16 jets as the current U.S. Ambassador to Thailand Robert F Godec is trying hard to sell earlier this week when he met with Defense Minister Suthin Klangsaeng on Friday as reported by Matichon. Money would definitely be better spent on education, public health, welfare, and not on more expensive fighter jets as we are not as insecure as some of our ASEAN friends like Singapore, which is surrounded by immediate neighbors who too easily get irritated by the island republic for the right or wrong reason.
I say the Americans most likely fear the F-35 sold to Thailand could be reverse engineered by Chinese spies or agents within weeks after the jets landed in Thailand if it were to be sold to the Royal Thai Air Force. (Which might be the case, I must admit.)
It is not that China or Russia is innately more sincere than the U.S. We will have to continue to maintain cordial relations with the U.S., but Thailand needs to forge alternative channels and platforms at the international stage as Pax Americana is on the decline. It is also the right decision (despite the bad timing but I guess Thaksin would not wait) for a unipolar world is innately a more repressive and exploitative world system with just one nation telling others what to do compared to a multipolar world with more voices to be heard.
Also, Vietnam and Malaysia are also interested in joining BRICS – ten more other countries have also applied so we are not alone and would not be alone.
Germany's Jamal Musiala celebrates after scoring his side's second goal during a round of sixteen match between Germany and Denmark at the Euro 2024 soccer tournament in Dortmund, Germany, Saturday, June 29, 2024. (AP Photo/Andreea Alexandru)
DORTMUND, Germany (AP) — Germany went from despair to delight in the space of a minute as a couple of big video review calls set the host nation on its way to a storm-affected 2-0 win over Denmark and a place in the European Championship quarterfinals on Saturday.
Denmark defender Joachim Andersen had a goal disallowed for the narrowest of offside decisions in the 50th minute, before giving away a penalty for handball on Germany’s very next attack.
Kai Havertz converted the spot kick and Jamal Musiala added a second goal in the 68th of a match that was suspended for about 25 minutes in the first half because of a bout of thunder and lightning that sparked torrential rain at Dortmund’s Westfalenstadion.
Germany’s Kai Havertz scores his side’s opening goal from a penalty kick during a round of sixteen match between Germany and Denmark at the Euro 2024 soccer tournament in Dortmund, Germany, Saturday, June 29, 2024. (AP Photo/Andreea Alexandru)Germany’s Jamal Musiala, left, scores his side’s 2nd goal against Denmark’s goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel during a round of sixteen match at the Euro 2024 soccer tournament in Dortmund, Germany, Saturday, June 29, 2024. (AP Photo/Darko Vojinovic)
It was Germany’s first win in the knockout stage of a major tournament since 2016 and another sign of the team’s growing belief that will excite the nation after years of underperformance on the highest stage.
“We’re going to Berlin,” sang Germany’s fans — in reference to the location of the Euro 2024 final on July 14 — in the giant South Stand late in the final minutes of what proved to be a dramatic occasion, as much because of the weather as what happened on the field.
After huge claps of thunder and lightning, the referee took the players off the field around the 35th minute and there was about a 20-minute delay, during which fans in the front rows got battered by torrential rain and sleet. The players re-emerged and undertook warmups before play resumed.
Rain falls during a round of sixteen match between Germany and Denmark at the Euro 2024 soccer tournament in Dortmund, Germany, Saturday, June 29, 2024. (AP Photo/Hassan Ammar)
The Danes weathered their own storm early in the match and, against the run of play, thought they took the lead when Andersen hooked home a shot from close range. The Video Assistant Referee spotted an offside in the buildup, a free kick was awarded and the ball was played downfield, leading to a cross by David Raum hitting Andersen’s outstretched right arm. The VAR got involved again and a penalty awarded.
Havertz converted and it was all Germany thereafter, with Musiala racing clear to score his third goal of the tournament, tied for the most.
Italy’s title defense limps away at Euro 2024
BERLIN (AP) — In the end, 10 months weren’t enough for Italy coach Luciano Spalletti to have the Azzurri playing like his title-winning Napoli club.
Or even like any of the title-winning Italy teams of old. The honors feature four World Cups, two European Championships.
Italy’s European title defense limped to an end on Saturday in a 2-0 loss to Switzerland in the round of 16.
“The responsibility is mine,” Spalletti said, accepting blame for yet another failure by the proud soccer-mad nation to live up to its reputation.
Italy’s coach Luciano Spalletti, center, walks between his players after a round of sixteen match between Switzerland and Italy at the Euro 2024 soccer tournament in Berlin, Germany, Saturday, June 29, 2024. (Robert Michael/dpa via AP)
Saturday’s last 16 exit was less of a fight from Italy and more a whimper that recast its 2021 Euro title win as somewhat of an anomaly.
That triumph came sandwiched between two failed attempts to qualify for the World Cup — for the 2018 edition after losing to Sweden in the playoffs, and four years later with a shock defeat to North Macedonia at the same stage.
The team earned redemption at Wembley three years ago, in the pandemic-delayed Euro 2020, and many Italians were hoping for a repeat in Germany.
But those hopes were dashed in the same stadium where Italy defeated France on penalties to lift the World Cup in 2006. It was Switzerland’s first win over Italy for 31 years, and the first game in seven at Berlin’s Olympiastadion that Italy failed to score.
Italy’s goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario in action during a round of sixteen match between Switzerland and Italy at the Euro 2024 soccer tournament in Berlin, Germany, Saturday, June 29, 2024. (AP Photo/Markus Schreiber)
“It’s on my head in terms of what’s happened, but this is part of a process and I have to say this. Because otherwise it might seem that I’m looking to justify things in a certain way,” Spalletti said. “But all of the other coaches had 20 matches in charge before they took charge. Some coaches had 30 games.
“I only had 10 and we already were under fire. You have to win … and it’s only right that we have to win. But I probably need to get to know my team a bit better to be able to set things up better.”
Spalletti was the coach who masterminded Napoli’s spectacular Serie A title run last year. That was Napoli’s first league championship in three decades — since the glory days of Diego Maradona — and the southern team won in thrilling style.
He left Napoli at the end of the campaign, saying he needed a break, but was appointed Italy coach last August after Roberto Mancini suddenly resigned.
Spalletti appeared to have brought that Napoli sparkle back to the national team as a newfound attacking flair helped Italy to turn around its qualifying campaign and finish second in its group.
But there was little sign at all of that at the tournament in Germany.
Italy’s Gianluca Scamacca, centre, reacts at the end of a round of sixteen match between Switzerland and Italy at the Euro 2024 soccer tournament in Berlin, Germany, Saturday, June 29, 2024. Switzerland won the game 2-0. (AP Photo/Ariel Schalit)
Italy conceded the fastest goal in the tournament’s history in its opening 2-1 victory over Albania, was thoroughly outclassed in a 1-0 loss to Spain, and needed a last-ditch equaliser from Mattia Zaccagni to snatch a 1-1 draw against Croatia and advance to the knockout stages.
“Having tried out a number of things over the course of this experience, I do come away with the notion that I have to change things, I’m convinced that I have to change things now,” Spalletti said. “It’s not a scandalous result as now you’re trying to depict it to be.
“And when I’m told that we produced a scandalous performance against Croatia … no, no, I’ll say no. Today we were under par, against Spain we were under par, but not against Croatia. We made it through a tough group. Deservedly so.”
