Vietnamese Debtors Claim Self-Defense in Pattaya Assault Case

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27 June 2024, 01:06

vietnam arrest pattaya1 — Two Vietnamese suspects are questioned about the assault case against them at Pattaya Police Station on June 26, 2024.

PATTAYA — Two Vietnamese debtors, who are suspects in an assault case against a fellow Vietnamese national on South Pattaya Road, were arrested on Wednesday. They claimed that they had been provoked by a debt collector who insulted their parents, leading to a loss of temper.

They pleaded with society not to view them as members of a mafia gang.

Police Lieutenant Colonel Piyaphong Ensan of the Pattaya Tourist Police questioned two suspects: Mr. Boy, also known as Mr. Tran Chin Tin, 30, and Mr. Nguyen Anh Kiet, 31, who were brought to the Pattaya City Police Station to face charges of assault.

vietnam arrest pattaya2 — Mr. Xuan and his close friend met with Police Lieutenant Colonel Thananon Athipansee, Deputy Superintendent of Pattaya City Police, to provide information about the case on June 26, 2024.

The investigation revealed that about three years ago, Mr. Boy had invested in a car pawn business in Vietnam with Mr. Xuan, 38. Recently, they faced legal issues due to pawning illegal vehicles. Pursued by creditors, Mr. Boy fled to Pattaya, staying with Mr. Nguyen, whose sister owns a Vietnamese restaurant there.

The suspects claim the incident was unplanned. They say Mr. Xuan, their creditor, confronted them at a restaurant and insulted their families, which provoked their violent reaction. They deny being part of organized crime or luring the creditor to harm him, as had been previously reported.

Police Lieutenant Colonel Thananon Athipansee, Deputy Superintendent of Pattaya City Police, stated that Mr. Xuan, the injured party, had a car pawn business in Vietnam. One of the suspects allegedly caused him to lose about 1.4 million baht through illegal vehicle pawning, leading to police intervention in Vietnam.

After the suspects fled to Pattaya to work at a relative’s Vietnamese restaurant, Mr. Xuan flew to Thailand to recover his debt. Instead, he was assaulted. Mr. Xuan insists on pursuing legal action against the two main assailants, while two others present were not directly involved in the violence.

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Thai Banks Are the Top Suppliers of Financial Services to Myanmar’s Military, UN Expert Says

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Associated Press

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27 June 2024, 00:13

Myanmar International Banking — FILE - Myanmar Air Force Jet fighters drop bombs during military exercises Friday, Feb. 2, 2018, in Ayeyarwaddy delta region, Myanmar. (Lynn Bo Bo/Pool via AP, File)

BANGKOK (AP) — Thai banks have become the main supplier of international financial services for Myanmar’s military government, enabling its purchases of goods and equipment used to carry out its increasingly bloody war against pro-democracy resistance forces and armed ethnic minority groups, a U.N. expert said in a report issued Wednesday.

The report by Tom Andrews, the U.N. special rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Myanmar, tracks how that country’s ruling military council has been able to continue procuring arms by shifting suppliers of financial services and military hardware as previous sources have been blocked by sanctions imposed by the United States, the European Union and other states.

The report charges that companies in Thailand, Myanmar’s eastern neighbor, have taken up the slack left by the withdrawal of Singapore firms’ business with the ruling junta.

AP24178562400811 — FILE – The U.N. Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Myanmar Tom Andrews speaks to the media during a press conference in Jakarta, Indonesia, Wednesday, June 21, 2023. (AP Photo/Dita Alangkara, File)

It says the junta, formally known as the State Administration Council, “continues to engage with a broad international banking network to sustain itself and its weapons supplies.”

“Over the past year, 16 banks located in seven countries processed transactions related to SAC military procurement; 25 banks have provided correspondent banking services to Myanmar’s state-owned banks since the coup,” says the report, titled “Banking on the Death Trade: How Banks and Governments Enable the military Junta in Myanmar,” presented to the U.N. Human Rights Council.

Myanmar’s junta came to power in February 2021 after the army ousted the democratically elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi. After security forces used deadly force to suppress nonviolent protests, armed resistance arose and the country is now in a civil war. Myanmar’s military has been accused of carrying out widespread human right violations, including the bombing of civilians.

AP24178562407927 — FILE – Charred homes sit in piles of ash in Mwe Tone village of Pale township, in the Sagaing region, Myanmar, on Feb. 1, 2022. (AP Photo, File)

“The good news is that the junta is increasingly isolated,” Andrews said in a statement. “The Myanmar military’s annual procurement of weapons and military supplies through the formal banking system declined by a third from the year ending March 2023 to the year that followed — from $377 million to $253 million.”

“The bad news is that the junta is circumventing sanctions and other measures by exploiting gaps in sanctions regimes, shifting financial institutions, and taking advantage of the failure of (U.N.) Member States to fully coordinate and enforce actions.”

A previous report from Andrews documented that Singapore-based entities had become the military junta’s third largest source of weapons materials, despite a clear national policy opposing the transfer of weapons to Myanmar.

After that report was presented and its findings investigated by the Singaporean government, “the flow of weapons and related materials to Myanmar from Singapore-registered companies dropped by nearly 90%,” the new report says.

It says that while Singapore-based banks facilitated over 70% of the junta’s purchases that passed through the formal banking system in the 2022 financial year, “that percentage had dropped to under 20% by FY2023.”

Companies in Thailand, which is Myanmar’s eastern neighbor, have taken up the slack left by the withdrawal of Singapore firms’ business with the junta, the new report says, as exports from Thailand-registered entities “more than doubled — from just over $60 million to nearly $130 million” from FY2022 to FY2023.

“Many SAC purchases previously made from Singapore-based entities, including parts for Mi-17 and Mi-35 helicopters used to conduct airstrikes on civilian targets, are now being sourced from Thailand,” it says.

AP24178562325221 — FILE – Debris is seen in the St. Peter Baptist Church-Kanan, which was struck by the suspected military’s aerial attacks in Kanan village, Khampat town, Sagaing region on Jan. 8, 2024. (David Htan via AP, File)

It singles out Thai banks as playing a major role in facilitating international business for Myanmar’s ruling military, citing the example of Siam Commercial Bank, which it said carried out just over $5 million in transactions related to Myanmar military procurement in FY2022, rising to more than $100 million in FY2023. The bank declined to immediately comment on the report.

Andrews’ report recounts the toll of the fighting so far in Myanmar: more than 5,000 civilians killed since the takeover, 3 million people displaced, and more than 20,000 political prisoners behind bars.

“By relying on financial institutions that are willing to do business with Myanmar state-owned banks under its control, the junta has ready access to the financial services it needs to carry out systematic human rights violations, including aerial attacks on civilians,” Andrews said.

“International banks that facilitate transactions that include Myanmar state-owned banks are at high risk of enabling military attacks on Myanmar civilians. I urge them to stop doing so. Banks have a fundamental obligation to not facilitate crimes -– and this includes war crimes and crimes against humanity.”

Pantip Pratunam Reborn As 10B Baht ‘Phenix’ Food Hub in Bangkok

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Khaosod English

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26 June 2024, 23:44

BANGKOK — Phenix Pratunam on Phetchaburi Road in Bangkok has announced itself as a comprehensive global food center, a new destination for tourists and foodies.

Wallapa Traisorat, CEO and Managing Director of Asset World Corporation Public Company Limited (AWC), announced that the company has converted the Pantip Pratunam project worth over 10 billion baht ($270 million) into the new Phenix project.

This project is set to become a global food hub with premium food ingredients, food wholesale, food retail and food lounges, connecting wholesalers and shoppers worldwide and becoming a food hub in the heart of the city.

The company is convinced of the country’s potential and, in line with government policy, is committed to strengthening Thailand’s tourism and food industry by creating a global food hub in downtown Bangkok.

This will be achieved through a new model, the first of its kind in the world, targeting the wholesale and retail sectors, connecting food suppliers, buyers and sellers worldwide on both offline and online platforms. The Phenix project covers a strategic area in Pratunam with an area of over 69,000 square meters and a project value of over 10 billion baht.

“Phenix is now open and 80 percent of the retail space is leased. The company has spent 1 billion baht on renovating the site and allocated 200 million baht for marketing to attract tourists and foodies to this new Bangkok landmark in the Pratunam area. The goal is to attract 20,000 visitors per day, with an initial target of 10,000 visitors per day,” said Wallapa.

Pratunam is an excellent shopping destination, adjacent to affluent neighborhoods such as Ratchaprasong, Chidlom and Ploenchit. It is also an ideal location for a food hub that will help position Thailand as a global food destination, in line with the company’s commitment to promote the country’s food industry and wholesale trade.

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, who presided over the opening ceremony of the Phenix project, said it was an excellent opportunity for AWC to work with partners to promote tourism and the food industry. This includes the World’s Food Wholesale Hub and International Pavilion, as well as a food lounge with a variety of restaurants for consumers and support for future activities to promote the food industry.

“I am very confident that the Phenix project will achieve its goals through the collaboration of all sectors, both public and private. This is in line with the government’s ‘Thai Cuisine for the World’ project to make Thailand a global food hub and strengthen Thailand’s soft power in the food sector, in line with the ‘Must Eat’ strategy of the ‘5 Must Do in Thailand’ campaign,” said the Prime Minister.

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Samui Task Force Cracks Down on 52 Foreign Villas with Hidden Rentals

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Khaosod English

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26 June 2024, 19:19

KOH SAMUI — The task force addressing state land encroachment on Samui Island is preparing to prosecute the owners of 52 villas for violating three laws: the Hotel Act, the Environmental Act, and the Building Control Act.

The Internal Security Operations Command Region 4 received complaints about construction on steep terrain in Koh Samui, Surat Thani Province, violating environmental and building control laws. Some properties were also operating as unlicensed hotels.

Local sources revealed that Chinese investors leased land for 30 years from Thai companies to build villas for sale to foreigners and rent out nightly through a vacation rental company online without proper hotel registration. This affects tourism, legal hotel businesses, and results in lost tax revenue.

chinese samui33 — The task force addressing state land encroachment on Samui Island inspect villas in Khao Chaweng Noi area.

On June 26, the task force inspected Khao Chaweng Noi area in Bo Put Sub-district, finding two unusual villa sites on steep terrain. The 52 villas are built on eight plots totaling 19 rai, exceeding the legally allowed slope for construction and offering nightly rentals.

The 52 three-story reinforced concrete villas were in various stages of construction. No owners, caretakers, or workers were present during the inspection. Officials recorded their findings and tagged the buildings.

A Russian tourist staying at one villa informed officials that they booked online with a foreign owner, paying 3,500 baht per night for four nights.

chinese samui22 — Foreign-Owned Villas on Samui Island

Col. Dusit Kesornkaew, the task force leader, stated that construction began in 2018 and continues to date. Irregularities include lack of building permits, construction on slopes exceeding 140 meters (where 70% of the area should remain vacant), and violations of the Hotel Act. He also noted the absence of a reception area, with bookings made directly with overseas villa owners.

He advised investors to comply with laws and not be misled by those exploiting loopholes in foreign business regulations to evade taxes. He suggested that investors check with Samui City Municipality and the local ISOC team about construction regulations for sloped areas before proceeding with any projects.

chinese samui44 — The task force addressing state land encroachment on Samui Island inspect villas in Khao Chaweng Noi area.

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Thailand and Bhutan Strengthen Ties, Promote Two Kingdoms Tourism

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Khaosod English

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26 June 2024, 18:22

bhutan3 — Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin and Bhutanese Prime Minister Dasho Tshering Tobgay shake hands during the joint news conference at Thai Government House on June 26, 2024.

BANGKOK — On June 26, 2024, Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin and Bhutanese Prime Minister Dasho Tshering Tobgay met in Bangkok to commemorate 35 years of diplomatic relations.

The leaders witnessed the signing ceremony of the following two Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) on medical education cooperation and tourism. These are key points from their meeting:

Trade: Agreed to accelerate FTA negotiations and aim to increase trade volume to $120 million as soon as possible.

Investment: Thailand showed interest in Bhutan’s Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC) project. This holistic vision of GMC resonates with Thailand’s shared values of technology-driven and sustainable future. The two key memorandum of understanding signed today will also help boost tourism sectors of the two countries, and promote academic exchange and cooperation in medical education.

Tourism: The two Kingdoms are blessed with rich cultural heritage and diverse natural beauty, and look forward to promoting the “Two Kingdoms, One Destination” initiative, which will boost the tourism industry in both countries.

Both the Prime Ministers looked to the possibility of establishing a “Friends of Thailand-Bhutan Group” to deepen the bonds between peoples of the two countries.

bhutan2 — The leaders witnessed the signing ceremony of the following two Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) on medical education cooperation and tourism.

Education: Committed to facilitating student and academic exchanges.

Renewable Energy: Agreed to share expertise, particularly in hydropowerwhich both countries have expertise.

Regional Cooperation: Emphasized the importance of BIMSTEC. Bhutan’s PM accepted an invitation to the BIMSTEC Summit in Thailand in September 2024.

The leaders expressed commitment to deepening cooperation across various sectors, leveraging their shared Buddhist heritage and royal family connections. Bhutan’s PM also invited the Thai PM to visit Bhutan at his convenience.

This meeting underscores the growing partnership between Thailand and Bhutan, focusing on economic, cultural, and sustainable development collaboration.

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“Kidults” Drive Thailand Art Toys Business, Particularly SMEs

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Khaosod English

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26 June 2024, 17:55

BANGKOK — Art Toys boost Thai toy industry to 20 billion baht ($54.3 million), predominantly small-sized businesses.

Director General of the Department of Business Development, Ministry of Commerce, Auramon Supthaveethum, revealed that the Art Toys trend, which involves collectable toys created as artworks by both international and Thai artists, is gaining popularity worldwide.

Despite fluctuating growth in the toy industry over the last five years (2019-2023) due to the negative effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, the toy business rapidly recovered once the situation stabilized.

It’s remarkable that small businesses constitute the largest group establishing toy businesses, with 1,024 companies. This demonstrates the potential and opportunities for SMEs in the toy industry, which remains open for small businesses to invest and compete in the market.

Of this number, 804 are selling companies, accounting for 93.7% of the total 1,093 toy businesses. There are 238 manufacturing companies, and 855 are selling companies.
The total registered funds amount to 5,692.21 million baht, divided into 2,909.61 million baht for manufacturing companies and 2,782.60 million baht for selling companies.

The Art Toy industry is considered a great opportunity for Thai business owners due to its fast growth, with a substantial revenue of 19,677.21 million baht in 2023. The toy industry has shown tremendous growth and delivered a profit of 467.62 million baht.
“This aligns with the current situation where we can see that the toy market is bustling with activity both in Thailand and abroad,” she said.

Auramon explained that this trend is driven by the emergence of a consumer group within the toy sector known as ‘Kidults,’ adults who enjoy collecting toys similar to their childhood interests. With strong purchasing power, this group fulfills their childhood desires by collecting art toys, especially limited editions as a future investment. Thailand is currently known as a quality contract manufacturing hub.

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Suvarnabhumi Police Nab Duo for Drugging, Robbing German Tourist

By

Khaosod English

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26 June 2024, 16:38

SUVARNABHUMI — Tourist Police at Suvarnabhumi Airport arrested two women for drugging and robbing a German tourist. A search of their room revealed numerous drugs including Alprazolam, which is known as a date rape drug.

On June 26, investigators from the Tourist Police Division 3, Tourist Police 1, Tourist Police Bureau at Suvarnabhumi Airport, executed an arrest warrant from the Ratchada Criminal Court to arrest Kritsana, 35, and Suthasinee, 36, at their residence in Bang Bon, Bangkok, on charges of nighttime robbery using a vehicle.

Upon searching their room, police found 132 methamphetamine pills, 3.74 grams of crystal meth, and 14 tablets of Alprazolam, a Schedule II substance similar to what was used to drug the victim. All evidence was collected and sent to the investigating officers at Hua Mak Police Station.

Police Colonel Pongpichet Nilchan, Superintendent of Division 3, Tourist Police 1, stated that the case began when a German male tourist filed a complaint with the Tourist Police at Suvarnabhumi Airport before leaving the country. He reported being drugged and robbed of several items, including cash, credit cards, and a camera, by a transgender woman and her female friend near an entertainment venue in the Sukhumvit area. He had initially reported the incident at Hua Mak Police Station, but there was no progress in the case.

The Tourist Police investigators later found crucial evidence from CCTV footage in the victim’s condominium, showing the two suspects following him into his room. After tracing the suspects’ whereabouts and matching the drug found in the German man’s system (Alprazolam) with evidence, the investigators gathered enough proof to request an arrest warrant from the Criminal Court.

2women german2 — The CCTV footage in the German man’s condominium, showing the two suspects following him into his room.

Both suspects confessed that on the day of the incident, they met the victim near an entertainment venue in Sukhumvit, befriended him, and followed him to his room. They then secretly mixed the drug into his drink, causing him to pass out, and proceeded to rob him. The stolen cash was used for partying and buying drugs, with some items being sold or discarded.

Background checks revealed that Kritsana, the ladyboy suspect, had previous drug-related arrests.

The German tourist thanked the Tourist Police for finally apprehending the suspects.

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Love Is Love! Plan Your Dream Destination Wedding in Thailand With Marriott Bonvoy

By

Contributor

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26 June 2024, 15:57

BANGKOK – Marriott Bonvoy®’s portfolio of extraordinary hotels and resorts in Thailand invites guests to celebrate love and tie the knot at charming wedding locations across the country.

Following the Thai government’s landmark decision to legalize same-sex marriage, couples can start planning the most joyous day of their lives all across the “Land of Smiles”. From energizing urban weddings in Bangkok, beachfront blessings in Koh Samui, Hua Hin, Phuket and Khao Lak, or personalized parties in Pattaya, Marriott Bonvoy is ready to help create unforgettable memories in a dream destination!

With its iconic street life and sparkling skyline, Bangkok sets the stage for sensational weddings, catering for every taste and budget. At the ultra-stylish W Bangkok, glamorous gatherings include signature cocktails from a skilled mixologist, while The St. Regis Bangkok invites couples to elevate their luxury wedding with panoramic views of the Royal Bangkok Sports Club and highly bespoke service.

Le Méridien Bangkok, the art-inspired hotel in Bangkok’s cultural heart, is an ideal choice to host intimate and elegant weddings in its boutique-style venue, while Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel & Towers provides the backdrop for stunning waterside ceremonies on the banks of the famous Chao Phraya River. For couples seeking a resort-style ambiance just a short drive from the city, the recently opened Courtyard by Marriott Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport is an exceptional option.

Alternatively, couples can escape the city and feel the sand beneath their toes at Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of beach resorts in the country. In Hua Hin, Hua Hin Marriott Resort & Spa is offering exclusive upgrades to the Presidential Suite for guests who book a Thai or Western ceremony and Sheraton Hua Hin Pranburi Villas is blending personalized packages with private pool villa escapes. In Pattaya, Renaissance Pattaya Resort & Spa, with an award-winning design, is offering complimentary pre-wedding photoshoots, romantic dinners and more.

On the exotic island of Koh Samui, chic celebrations at W Koh Samui include glamorous pampering sessions and photoshoots to help every couple look and feel fabulous for their big day. Over on the pristine shores of Phuket, Renaissance Phuket Resort & Spa sets the stage for spectacular seafront events with alfresco dinners, themed décor and more, and Courtyard by Marriott Phuket Town infuses every wedding with the cultural heart and soul of this captivating destination.

Meanwhile in Khao Lak, Le Méridien Khao Lak Resort & Spa immerses all couples in tropical serenity with packages tailored specifically to their unique love story, and the soon-to-open Khao Lak Marriott Beach Resort & Spa is gearing up to serenade guests in its breath-taking beachfront ballroom.

For more information and to book your dream wedding in Thailand, please visit www.marriott.com/meeting-event-hotels/weddings.mi.

ONYX Hospitality Group Redefines Hospitality with the Launch of Shama Hub

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Contributor

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26 June 2024, 15:50

Bangkok, Thailand: ONYX Hospitality Group has unveiled Shama Hub, an extension of its leading serviced apartment brand, Shama. This new revolutionary concept transforms the fundamental nature of accommodation. More than just a place to stay, Shama Hub offers a lifestyle that celebrates creativity, flexibility, and community engagement.

“At Shama Hub, we believe in providing more than just a roof over your head; we offer an experience that defines you,” says Yuthachai Charanachitta, CEO of ONYX Hospitality Group. “Our serviced apartments are meticulously designed to be practical for real living, ranging from studios to larger living spaces, ensuring comfort and functionality for our guests.”

Strategically located in vibrant neighbourhoods, Shama Hub properties are easily accessible to attractive areas, allowing guests to seamlessly connect with the pulse of the city. Each location embodies the essence of local culture and endless exploration.

ONYX Hospitality Group is delighted to announce the addition of two new properties to the Shama Hub portfolio: Shama Hub Qiantang, China and Shama Hub Metro South, Hong Kong.

Strategically located in the recently developed area of Hong Kong Southern district, Shama Hub Metro South, Hong Kong, is an ideal hub for individuals or families seeking long-term accommodation close to the city while being surrounded by nature. Vibrant public areas blend seamlessly with the co-living concept, offering a contemporary hotel-home hybrid lifestyle. The property features 26 floors and 139 rooms, with seven room types ranging from studios to two-bedroom units, all designed for a seamless and convenient stay with essential amenities at hand.

Located in Metro South Tower 2, just a 2-minute walk from Wong Chuk Hang MTR station, guests can reach Admiralty in about 10 minutes via the South Island Line. This prime location provides easy access to attractions like Ocean Park and Hong Kong Island, allowing guests to enjoy the vibrant energy of the Aberdeen district and discover new and creative experiences within minutes.

Shama Hub Qiantang Hangzhou, China, stands a new addition in the heart of Hangzhou, a city famed for its ancient history and once praised by Marco Polo for its opulence and grandeur. Located in the Dajiangdong area, just a short walk from Dongsha Lake Park and the Grand Convention and Exhibition Centre, and within close proximity to shops, malls, and restaurants, Shama Hub Qiantang is ideal for work and leisure.

Adventurous guests will find major transport hubs easily accessible, allowing exploration of Hangzhou’s enchanting sights, with the majestic Tianmu Mountain range as a backdrop. Situated by the stunning Qiantang River, the property is only a 40-minute drive from the city’s international airport.

Embodying Shama Hub’s philosophy, Shama Hub Qiantang features a variety of room types that cater to short- and long-term residents. Guests can choose from spacious studio kings, one-bedroom suites, or studio flex twin rooms. Spacious desks and regular housekeeping services ensure a productive environment, allowing guests to achieve the perfect balance between work and relaxation.

Each Shama Hub property offers an array of amenities designed to enrich the living experience. These include self-service laundry facilities, a fitness centre, communal hub spaces, and self-service business cabins. These facilities also foster a sense of community within the Shama Hub environment, enhancing both convenience and social interaction for residents.

In addition to prime locations and top-notch facilities, these Shama Hubs offer the exclusive “Shama Social Club” lifestyle programme. This innovative initiative enriches the guest experience by fostering a sense of community and connecting residents to the unique essence of each locale. Through tailored interior design, curated activities, and thoughtful gestures, Shama Social Club ensures that guests feel welcomed and at home from the moment they arrive.

“We are thrilled to introduce the Shama Social Club to our guests in Hong Kong, China, and beyond,” adds Mr. Charanachitta. “It is not just a club; it’s a community that fosters connection, exploration, and a sense of belonging.”

Shama Hub’s expansion into Hong Kong and China marks a significant milestone in the brand’s journey. With a portfolio of over 2,500 units across 20 properties, including leading positions in international service apartment operations, Shama continues to set the benchmark for serviced hospitality excellence in Asia.

Shama has established a notable presence across Thailand, Hong Kong, China, and Malaysia, with ongoing expansions. This expansion exemplifies Shama’s commitment to setting new benchmarks in contemporary living and community engagement.

Guided by the mantra of ‘A Tailored Approach to Hospitality,’ ONYX Hospitality Group distinguishes itself by aspiring to become ‘the best medium-sized hospitality management company in Southeast Asia.’ This unwavering vision permeates every aspect of ONYX’s operations, guaranteeing guests unparalleled service and experiences that exceed all expectations.

For more information on Shama and Shama Hub, please visit: www.shama.com

Superpower Arms Flow into Karenni State; Thailand Fears Refugee Surge

By

Khaosod English

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26 June 2024, 14:51

MAE HONG SON — Conflict in Karenni state intensifies. World major powers supplying arms; fears of large-scale refugee influx into Thailand.

The situation in the state of Karenni in Myanmar, which borders the Thai province of Mae Hong Son, continues to be characterized by ongoing conflicts that resemble a proxy war. In this conflict, foreign mercenaries supported by the United States are fighting against the Myanmar military, which receives weapons from China and Russia.

On June 26, 2024, a senior source from the Karenni Army (KA) revealed the ongoing fighting situation in Karenni State. The source explained that over the past week, Myanmar forces have intensified their efforts to capture parts of Loikaw, the capital of Kayah State (also known as Karenni State), from the Karenni Army (KA) and the Karenni National Defense Force (KNDF).

The Myanmar troops stationed in the area come from various battalions that had previously been defeated. In particular, new types of drones, presumably manufactured in China and Russia, are being used in the conflict.

The Karenni troops have adopted the tactic of splitting into small groups to make it more difficult for the Myanmar drones to attack them. However, there are still 4-5 Myanmar military bases in Loikaw, while 70 percent of the surrounding 16 bases have been captured by the Karenni forces, including areas close to the Thai border. Fighting continues, with the Karenni army using guerrilla tactics to ambush and weaken the Myanmar military.

In addition, the Karenni army had to send troops to clear numerous landmines planted by the Myanmar military in various areas, resulting in several civilian casualties. The Karenni troops have already cleared over 500 landmines in Loikaw.

The Karenni Army has also established a provisional system of governance in the border areas, overseen by the Karenni State Interim Executive Council (IEC). The IEC manages the border checkpoints and has deployed immigration officers at various border points such as Ban Huay Ton Noon in Khun Yuam district and Ban Sao Hin in Mae Sariang district, Mae Hong Son province.

The Karenni troops’ next target is to advance towards Naypyidaw, the military capital of Myanmar, together with the KNPP/KA, KNDF and PDF in cooperation with the 2nd Brigade of the Karen National Union (KNU). Heavy fighting is reported from Bago, a neighboring town of Naypyidaw. The aim of this action is to distract the Myanmar military from attacking targets in Karenni State by forcing it to defend its capital.

A Thai intelligence source in Mae Hong Son province told Khaosod reporters that the involvement of foreign mercenaries in Karenni state, believed to be backed by the United States, has complicated the situation. The Myanmar government has responded by supplying arms from Russia and China. The conflict is expected to escalate after the rainy season, which could lead to a large influx of refugees into Thailand.

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