GAC AION launches the Hyper HT

By

-

2 May 2024, 11:12

GAC AION launches the Hyper HT, a high-end electric SUV. Aesthetics of art and technology.

GAC AION launches the Hyper HT, a high-end luxury electric SUV. Offering superior options for Thai consumers with premium luxury and modern design with intelligent technology and innovation. Driving range up to 600 kilometers, with an introductory price not exceeding 1.9 million baht.

Mr. Ocean Ma, Managing Director of ION Automobile Sales (Thailand) and Managing Director of ION Automobile Manufacturing (Thailand) Co., Ltd., said that GAC AION is considered one of the first automobile companies of any other in a world where research on electric power and intelligent technology has been achieved, both electric vehicles (EV) and intelligent connected vehicles (Intelligent Connected Vehicles: ICV) fully. At the same time, it is well known that GAC AION can research and produce the three main parts of electric vehicles, whether they are batteries, motors, electrical control panels, or ECUs, which makes GAC AION a leader in the world’s new energy vehicle industry.

In the past, 2023, it was considered a year in which GAC AION grew by leaps and bounds with sales of more than 480,000 electric cars, an increase of 77% from last year. It ranks as the second electric car brand in China and the third electric car brand in the world. On December 28, 2023, GAC AION created the record for producing and selling 1 million cars, which is the fastest in the world. It took only 4 years and 8 months. GAC AION’s ability and superiority are guaranteed in terms of production processes, product quality, and strong marketing.

GAC AION currently has two car brands within the group: AION, an electric car brand that comes with great value and modern exterior and interior design complete with intelligent technology and features, and Hyper, a high-end electric car brand (Hi-End) that comes with luxury and the most advanced technology.

Mr. Ocean Ma further said that in early 2024, GAC AION will launch Hyper (Hyper) to market in Thailand, which is a high-end electric car brand (Hi-End that meets the needs of customers who are passionate about luxury, technology, and advanced performance. Which reflect the image and superior taste by inventing the best innovation and technology to be used in various car models of Hyper. The brand’s logo represents the AI ARROW to show the potential for continuous development of electric cars with the concept of developing four main principles: “advanced (ADVANCE), modern (TRENDY), fun (FUN), and high quality (HIGH-GRADE),” which creates perfection in both technological innovation and artistic creativity, mixed together in car production to provide customers with “highest performance that comes with a luxury experience and top-class service.”

GAC AION’s Hyper brand currently has three electric car models as follows:

– Hyper HT, a premium electric SUV, provides maximum comfort to the driver and passengers. The car is large and comfortable to sit in, with high-end functions and features. Gullwing doors open and close with a full electric system with an introductory price not exceeding 1.9 million baht at the recent Motor Show 2024.

– Hyper GT An electric sports sedan with a sleek design and a luxurious interior that features butterfly doors and high-end options.

– Hyper SSR The first 100% electric hypercar in Thailand. It comes with a lightweight carbon fiber body and 3 electric motors (1 front and 2 rear), providing a total power of up to 1,224 horsepower, which is capable of accelerating from 0-100 kilometers per hour. The fastest is within 1.9 seconds and has a pulling force of 1.7 G.

As for the electric car, the Hyper HT is considered an electric SUV that comes with world-class luxury and intelligent technology, which is superior with a unique curved exterior design (liquid curved body) that stands out with double gullwing rear doors (Gullwing Doors) ready to open-close with a full electrical system. Attracting every eye that sees it. The interior of the cabin is decorated with premium materials that have been carefully selected. Add premium luxury, including many convenient functions such as electric massage seats, adjustable massage levels in many ways, high-quality leather seats that provide an excellent sitting experience with ventilation and seat heating functions to increase relaxation, rear seats that can recline up to 143 degrees, the most in their class, a high-quality audio system, and many other features.

The highlight of the Hyper HT comes with a foldable rear footrest to add space to stretch your legs to the utmost and a multi-purpose table for placing various items, answering a variety of uses. Increase privacy with double-layer laminated sound-proof glass and an extra-large luggage space with a capacity of 670 liters. When the seats are folded, the space can be used up to 1,802 liters, able to hold two large golf bags easily. Maximum motor power is 180 kilowatts, maximum motor torque is 355 Newton-meters, acceleration rate of 0-100 kilometers per hour is 6.8 seconds, and maximum running distance is 600 kilometers.

Hyper HT was developed with four main concepts:

Hyper Design – The ultimate in superior design is like a work of art in the automotive world. Attracting every eye with Gullwing Doors, Diamond Cut headlights, and Horizon taillights.

Hyper Space – Provides comfort inside the cabin with a luxurious interior space decorated with premium materials. Providing a “first-class” driving and riding experience with a 10-point massage function and a rear passenger seat that can recline up to 143 degrees.

Hyper Energy – Go farther and faster with 2nd generation Magazine Battery technology and the Fast Charge system. Charge for just 15 minutes and it can run 400 kilometers, and if fully charged, it can run more than 600 kilometers.

Hyper Network – The Hyper Premium Charging Network is exclusive to Hyper customers. In 2024, 15 charging stations will be built, covering a radius of 15 kilometers in Bangkok. In 2028, the network of charging stations will be expanded to 100 nationwide.

Saudi Man Discovers His Thai Nanny After Being Apart for 20 Years

By

Khaosod English

-

2 May 2024, 02:39

saudi thai nanny1 — Ali ran to hug his Thai nanny with joy at her house in the Nonsombun Subdistrict, Soeng Sang District, Nakhon Ratchasima Province.

NAKHON RACHASIMA – Ali Bokhari, a 33-year-old Saudi Arabian man, embarked on a journey to find his Thai nanny who took care of him in Saudi Arabia when he was a child, more than 30 years ago. He had been trying to find her for a long time, hoping to repay her kindness for raising him.

Finally, he found his nanny in the Nonsombun Subdistrict, Soeng Sang District, Nakhon Ratchasima Province.

Mrs. Banyen Thongchaithanawayu, 77 years old, gave an interview with Khaosod reporter on May, 1. She recounted that she had taken care of Ali and his siblings since 1992. At that time, she was working as a maid in Saudi Arabia. However, after learning that her son had been in a serious accident and needed surgery, she rushed back to Thailand. At that time, Ali was 14 years old.

saudi nanny4 — Mrs. Banyen took care of Ali and his brother when they were so young in Saudi Arabia.

Ali’s father had bought a phone and provided a number for them to keep in touch. But after returning to Thailand, she never went back to work in Saudi Arabia again. Although she had kept this phone number for 30 years in case of contacting Ali, she never thought that Ali would fly to Thailand to find her.

One day, she received a phone call from a hotel in Pattaya, using the number Ali’s father had bought for her, asking for her address. After that, Ali rented a car and drove to her home in Nonsombun Subdistrict, Soeng Sang District.

The moment they saw each other, Ali ran to hug her with joy and longing. Both of them had tears in their eyes. They asked about each other’s lives. She even cooked for Ali, just like she used to do in Saudi Arabia.

The reason Ali came to see her this time was to repay her kindness for raising him since birth. Seeing that she had difficulty walking, Ali bought her a 3-wheeled electric motorcycle so that she wouldn’t have to walk and suffer from leg pain. He also arranged for a car to take her to the hospital in Nakhon Ratchasima city center and would cover the travel expenses for her doctor’s visits.

saudi thai nanny2 — Ali took his nanny to buy her a 3-wheeled electric motorcycle so that she wouldn’t have to walk and suffer from leg pain.

Before Ali returned to Saudi Arabia, he told her that he would come back to visit her every year.

“I never thought that after being apart for several decades, Ali would still miss me. Even though we are from different countries and ethnicities, he tried his best to find me to repay my kindness. I am very happy and deeply touched,” she said.

Ali stated that he visited Thailand for the first time to find “my mom,” who has raised him since day 1 of being on earth in Saudi Arabia. It was an emotional moment when he met her again.

“It was a really big day; I cried so much, and I was also happy that I found you, so…” li paused and said it with a kiss on her forehead, making her laugh.

He also thanked the taxi driver who helped him find his nanny’s house. He promised to come back to Thailand.

Microsoft’s New Data Center in Thailand: Boosting AI Skills for 100K

By

Khaosod English

-

2 May 2024, 01:45

investment — Microsoft Chairman and CEO Satya Nadella announced a new data center region in Thailand to build the nation's digital-first, AI-powered future.

BANGKOK – Microsoft Chairman and CEO Satya Nadella announced a new data center region in Thailand to build the nation’s digital-first, AI-powered future. The new cloud and AI infrastructure in Thailand will provide AI skilling opportunities for over 100,000 people, and support the nation’s growing developer community.

Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, who delivered a special address, attended the announcement at the Microsoft Build: AI Day event in Bangkok on May 1. There were also approximately 2,000 developers and business and technology leaders participating.

According to Microsoft, the new cloud data center region will expand the availability of the hyperscale cloud and AI services in Thailand, ensuring enterprise-grade reliability, performance, and compliance with data residency and privacy standards.

The commitments build on Microsoft’s memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Royal Thai Government to envision the nation’s digital-first, AI-powered future.

microsoft srettha2 — Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin takes a picture with Microsoft Chairman and CEO Satya Nadella at the Microsoft Build: AI Day event, the QSNCC in Bangkok on May 1, 2024. (Khaosod Photo/ Sompong Wanjapoh)

Microsoft’s skilling commitment is expected to benefit more than 100,000 individuals in Thailand.

It will enhance the AI proficiency of those involved in the nation’s tourism sector through the AI Skills for the AI-enabled Tourism Industry program. The initiative is a partnership between Microsoft and Thailand’s Ministry of Digital Economy and Society, Ministry of Tourism and Sports, Ministry of Labour, and the nation’s Technology Vocational Education Training Institute. It aims to empower young entrepreneurs and youths involved in tourism businesses across minor-tier geographic provinces in all five regions of Thailand.

The learning module will be accessible through partners’ learning platforms to ensure sustainability and scalability.

The tourism initiative builds on other Microsoft-supported skilling initiatives in Thailand, including Accelerating Thailand, the ASEAN Cyber Security Programme, Code; Without Barriers, and the Junior Software Developer Program.

microsoft srettha — Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin delivers a speech at the Microsoft Build: AI Day event in Bangkok on May 1, 2024. (Khaosod Photo/ Sompong Wanjapoh)

Microsoft will also enable the Royal Thai Government to adopt a cloud-first policy with an AI skill development program for developers and government IT personnel.

In his speech, Prime Minister Srettha stated that his government’s ‘Ignite Thailand’ vision for 2030 aims to develop the country’s stature as a regional digital economy hub that significantly enhances our innovation and R&D capabilities while also strengthening our tech workforce.

“Today’s announcement with Microsoft is a significant milestone in the journey of our ‘Ignite Thailand’ vision – one that promises new opportunities for growth, innovation, and prosperity for all Thais.”

Mr. Satya Nadella said Thailand has an incredible opportunity to build a digital-first, AI-powered future.

“Our new datacenter region, along with the investments we are making in cloud and AI infrastructure, as well as AI skilling, build on our long-standing commitment to the country – and will help Thai organizations across the public and private sector drive new impact and growth.”

Dhanawat Suthumpun, Managing Director of Microsoft Thailand, added that Microsoft is dedicated to helping Thailand excel as a digital economy, ensuring that the benefits of cloud and AI technologies are widespread and contribute to the prosperity and wellbeing of Thais.

“Together, we are laying the foundations for a future that is not only technologically advanced but also inclusive and sustainable,” he said.

American YouTuber Injures Girlfriend, Claims It’s for Content Creation

By

Khaosod English

-

1 May 2024, 23:51

american youtuber3 — The American YouTuber came out to get treatment for his wounds before being taken to the hospital.

CHONBURI – An American YouTuber hit his Thai girlfriend with a golf club, but his friend claimed he did it for content creation.

At 2 p.m. on May 1, police officers from Huai Yai Police Station in Chon Buri Province received a report of a foreign man going berserk and injuring his wife at a residence in Huai Yai Subdistrict, Bang Lamung District, Chon Buri Province. They, along with rescue workers, traveled to the scene to investigate.

At the incident location, which was a townhouse, a 30-year-old American man named Mr. Murphy was shouting incoherently and smashing household items, causing damage and scattering them throughout the house. There were blood stains all over the walls, and blood-stained knives, golf clubs and other items were found scattered around the house. The man himself had a severe wound on his stomach from being cut by glass.

american youtuber1 — There were blood stains all over the floor.

Miss Khanittha suffered bruises and cuts from glass shards after being beaten with a golf club by Mr. Murphy. Her 16-year-old sister, who was also injured by the glass, managed to call for help from the maid and friends. The two sisters escaped through a window before the authorities arrived.

When police officers surrounded the house, the American man locked himself in the bathroom. His friends and the officers attempted to persuade him to come out to receive medical attention for his wounds before being transferred to the hospital.

american youtuber4 — Mr. Murphy is the YouTuber, who has over 2.4 million subscribers on his channel.

According to Miss Khanittha, she was asleep when she heard the sound of breaking glass and falling objects. Upon investigating, she found her boyfriend shouting incoherently, with blood running down his body. He then attacked her with a golf club, forcing her to seek refuge in her sister’s room. She stated that she does not know the reason for his actions.

Disturbingly, a friend of Mr. Murphy claimed that the YouTuber, who has over 2.4 million subscribers on his channel, did not actually hurt his girlfriend and that the incident was merely a part of content creation. The police are currently investigating the matter further.

Matichon Is Trying To Make People’s Voices In Thailand Senator Election Louder

By

Khaosod English

-

1 May 2024, 15:14

BANGKOK – The first election, or selection instead, of senators in Thailand after the coup d’etat on May 22, 2014 is going to take place this summer, with a format that does not allow the people to elect them. Additionally, it sets strange conditions that prohibit candidates from campaigning.

It also emphasizes that the constitution, written by the junta-appointed committee, does not view democracy as a system that must involve maximum public participation, and must provide space for freedom of expression.

Mr. Sawaeng Boonmee, Secretary-General of the Election Commission, clarified on April 30 that citizens do not have the direct right to vote for senators, as the constitution does not grant this right. Citizens can only access information on senator candidates’ profiles through the ECT’s “Smart Vote” app and website. The candidates are divided into 20 professional groups across 928 districts, 77 provinces, and the national level.

The media can report normally according to professional principles on which professional groups the candidates belong to, analyze them, host forums, and interview candidates, but cannot assist candidates in campaigning/promoting themselves.
Senator candidates must introduce themselves only as permitted by ECT laws and regulations. Violations like falsely claiming eligibility, vote-buying, fraud, or accepting political party assistance can lead to disqualification or criminal penalties like fines and imprisonment.
Politicians who are members or hold positions in political parties are strictly prohibited from assisting any senator candidates.

“It’s the worst rules and darkest senatorial elections. Each candidate can only introduce oneself to voters in no more than 5 sentences. Think for yourself what Thailand’s future will be like?” said former Election Commission Somchai Srisutthiyakorn.

Somchai’s opinion is similar to many others who joined the press conference to launch the “Matichon: New Senators Thailand-Select” campaign organized at Khaosod Company office on April 30.

matichon select4 — “Matichon: New Senators Thailand-Select” campaign organized at Khaosod Company office on April 30.

Suwapong Chan-fangphet, editor of Matichon Weekly and an organizer of the campaign, stated about Matichon’s intentions in organizing this event and their commitment to continuously reporting news and opinions on the senate election:

“I take this opportunity to offer this platform for everyone to express their opinions and views. I affirm that all publications and editions of the Matichon media group, we want to make this senate election, which some are trying to keep as quiet as possible, as loud as possible by allowing people to share their views.”

matichon select5 — Suwapong Chan-fangphet, editor of Matichon Weekly

This campaign is joined by the Matichon Group together with the editorial team of the online Way Magazine, and leading academic partners from the Faculty of Political Science at Chulalongkorn University, Thammasat University, and Chiang Mai University’s Faculty of Political Science.

Essentially, Suwapong states that despite attempts to suppress coverage of this undemocratic senate selection process, Matichon media outlets will amplify it by providing a platform for public discourse. They are partnering with academics to facilitate open discussion around this controversial election.

Mrs. Sri Prai Nonthree, a representative from labor unions in the Rangsit area and nearby said in this event that as a very poor person herself, the opportunity for people to have a real representative is unattainable. Just to register as a candidate requires paying 2,500 baht, and voters also have to pay 2,500 baht. It is not true democracy, but rather rules embedded with dictatorship.

matichon select2 — Mrs. Sri Prai Nonthree

She argues that requiring fees from both candidates and voters goes against democratic principles and entrenches authoritarian power in the selection process for these new senators. Her perspective aligns with the concerns raised initially about this undemocratic senate selection process lacking public participation and freedom of expression.

Mr. Yingcheep Atchanont, project manager of iLaw (Internet for Public Laws), commented that in past years when discussing democratic elections, we spoke about the hopes of the new generation, students, and youth. But in this round, the rules are clear that the new generation does not have much participation.

“The rules for selecting senators this time are strange, distorted, and confusing. Yet senators are extremely important for the nation – in advancing towards a people’s constitution, selecting positions in organizations that must scrutinize state powers, and evaluating whether various laws are good or bad, which may be more important than MPs in many respects. But we know they don’t really want the people to participate much. But they can’t choose otherwise – in just a few more days, it will happen,” said Yingcheep.

matichon select3 — Mr. Yingcheep Atchanont

He criticizes the convoluted rules around this senate selection as being undemocratic and intentionally limiting participation from the younger generation, despite the crucial role senators play in government oversight and the country’s laws. He laments that this undemocratic selection is happening imminently, despite the public having no choice in the matter.

The applications for new senator candidates will be on May 13, followed by district level elections on June 9, provincial level elections on June 16 and national level elections on June 26. The results on the senate elections will be known on July 2.

____

Police Arrest A British guy Who Attacked a Phuket Tuk Tuk Driver on Phi Phi Island

By

Khaosod English

-

1 May 2024, 13:05

british tuktuk2 — Police officers at Karon Police Station, Phuket Immigration Police, and Phuket Tourist Police questioned Mr. Graham at Karon Police Station on May 1, 2024.

PHUKET – Mr. Graham, a 35-year-old British man involved in the incident with the Thai tuk-tuk driver in Phuket, was detained at a Phi Phi Island resort in Ao Nang, Mueang Krabi District, at 9:00 p.m. on April 30 and transported to Phuket’s Karon Police Station.

Video footage inside a car shows him using his two hands to strangle the driver’s neck at 4:00 a.m. on April 27.

On Wednesday, May 1, police officers from Karon Police Station brought Mr. Graham to court to face the charge of assault without causing physical or mental harm. This came after police arrested him on Phi Phi Island in Krabi province.

Abdulla, a tuk-tuk driver, stated that he picked up the British guy, Mr. Graham, from the Patong area and drove him to a hotel in Karon, Mueang Phuket District, for 400 baht. When they arrived at the hotel, Mr. Graham claimed to have given the driver a 1,000-baht Thai cash and demanded change. However, Abdulla asserted that it was merely a 100-baht note. The two argued, and then Mr. Graham grabbed Abdulla’s neck, hit him in the face, and fled.

Screenshot 2567 05 01 at 12.52.32 — Video footage inside a car shows him using his two hands to strangle the driver’s neck at 4:00 a.m. on April 27.

Following the event, Abdulla went to Patong Hospital for a medical evaluation. The doctor determined that he had an injury to his left cheek but no evident external wounds. He then proceeded to the Karon Police Station and filed an official complaint against Mr. Graham.

Later, at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, officers from Karon Police Station, Phuket Immigration Police, and Phuket Tourist Police questioned Mr. Graham together. He admitted to the claimed conduct and apologised for the incident. Mr. Abdulla, the other party involved, gave the police with additional testimony. His father, Mr. Bunghe, joined him, saying he and his son were pleased with and thankful to the police.

____

Bangkok Makes Progress in Improving Sidewalks and Sets 10 Standards

By

Khaosod English

-

1 May 2024, 09:28

BANGKOK – Sidewalks in Bangkok, which have been notorious for being uneven, easily damaged, and often a tripping hazard, are now being renovated. Officials from the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) are gradually improving the sidewalks, and many areas have already been completed, including Ratchadamri Road and Phloen Chit Road in the heart of the city’s business district.

Ekwaranyu Amrapal, BMA spokesperson, said that there are currently 16 routes of BMA sidewalks being improved under the new sidewalk standards, such as Ratchadamri Road, Phloen Chit Road, and Udomsuk Road. This year, there are plans to implement the new sidewalk standards on 38 more routes, followed by 22 more in 2025.

The BMA has set itself the goal of making the sidewalks in Bangkok barrier-free, pleasant to walk on and inviting. Initially, 1,000 km are to be achieved using three methods: Building new paths, repairing the damaged areas that need urgent repairs and adapting the innovations to the specific area.

Asphalt is used as a road surface for some less busy routes in suburban areas. The pilot routes include Phutthabucha Road, Khum Klao Road, Old Railway Line Road (Pak Nam), Phutthamonthon Sai 1 Road and Chalermphrakiat Rama 9 Road.

Each improved route will have its own unique features, such as: Artfully designed manhole covers: The manhole covers on Ratchadamri Road and Ploenchit Road have been designed to be both attractive and representative of the character of the neighborhood. BMA plans to roll out this concept to other routes, making them one of the city’s symbols, similar to Japan’s manhole covers that incorporate city symbols.

There will also be an inline drainage system: The drainage channels along the entire length of the road have been converted from the old drainage channels next to the sidewalk to inline drainage channels. This will drain water away from the road more quickly and prevent flooding.

sidewalk new2 — Bangkok is currently renovating its sidewalks in many area, including Ratchaprasong. (Photo by Pattarayoot Phukpol)

“The manhole covers are intended to be both attractive and representative of the character of the Ratchadamri and Phloen Chit districts,” Ekwaranyu said. “They are among the pilot routes using the new sidewalk standards, which are more durable, offer more universal design and have a more consistent height between building entrances and sidewalks.”

BMA’s Public Works Department and the county departments responsible for sidewalk maintenance and repair deploy rapid response units (BEST) to repair damaged sections as quickly as possible and return them to a safe and usable condition. If a section can be converted to a new standard footpath, it will also be upgraded. The BMA is supported by the public in reporting damaged or dangerous areas via Traffy Fondue so that the districts can quickly become aware of problems.

“For routes that are not suitable for sidewalk construction, such as alleys or narrow areas, obstacles have been removed and a variety of methods have been used to accommodate the conditions, such as painting lines to delineate pedestrian areas and using porous asphalt to border trees to increase sidewalk width,” Ekwaranyu said.

sidewark new4 — Ekwaranyu Amrapal, BMA spokesperson states that BMA launches new, durable sidewalk standards to focus on pedestrians as the center and expands to 16 routes.

Natthaphon Nakphan, director of the Department of Public Works’ Construction and Renovation Division 1, added that the new, improved sidewalks will no longer have the same problems as before, such as loose tiles or potholes, as an extra layer of concrete will be added before the tiles are laid during construction, making them stronger. In the past, when the sub-base was sand, slugs were laid and when it rained, the water flowed into the gaps, eroding the sand and causing problems.

In addition, BMA officials will monitor and enforce the law to prevent unauthorized digging for the laying of pipelines. If an authority plans to excavate for the laying of public utility lines, it is required to restore the area to its original condition upon completion of the excavation work.

The 10 new BMA sidewalk standards are as follows:

Reduce the height of the sidewalk curb to a shallow ramp of 10 centimeters.
Reduce the height of the sidewalk curb at building entrances and alleys to 10 centimeters from the previous 18.50 centimeters.
Change the sidewalk surface to reinforced concrete for increased strength, using 10 centimeters of concrete and 6 millimeter reinforcing steel.
Make building entrances and exits flush with the sidewalk to allow all sidewalk users to pass through seamlessly and conveniently.
Adjust all ramps and slopes to a 1:12 incline in accordance with international standards.
Add alternative paving materials for sidewalks, such as stamped asphalt concrete.
Change vertical drainage channels to horizontal drainage channels to increase the flow rate of water.
Develop guidelines for the placement of utilities on sidewalks to avoid obstructing pedestrians.
Install tactile paving (Braille blocks) to assist visually impaired pedestrians.
Improve tree enclosures using porous asphalt materials to increase sidewalk width.

_____

sidewalk new1 — Photo by Pattarayoot Phukpol

sidewalk new4 — Photo by Pattarayoot Phukpol

sidewalk gallery3 — Photo by Pattarayoot Phukpol

sidewalk gallery2 — Photo by Pattarayoot Phukpol

sidewalk gallery1 — Photo by Pattarayoot Phukpol

side walk new5 — Photo by Pattarayoot Phukpol

Town Begins Work to Block Mt. Fuji Photo Spot Due to Unruly Tourists

By

Kyodo News

-

30 April 2024, 19:31

Japan Mt. Fuji Overtourism — Visitors take a photo in front of a convenient store at Fujikawaguchiko town, Yamanashi prefecture, Japan, with a backdrop of Mr. Fuji on April 28, 2024. (Kyodo News via AP)

KOFU – A Japanese town on Tuesday began work to set up a large black screen to block the view of Mt. Fuji at a popular photo spot in response to what it calls unruly behavior from tourists.

The sight of Japan’s highest mountain towering over a Lawson convenience store in Fujikawaguchiko, Yamanashi Prefecture, can be captured from across a road and has become popular among foreign tourists after the picturesque location rose to fame on social media.

According to town officials and other sources, the area started drawing crowds around December 2022. Littering and illegal parking have become issues, while visitors have also been seen jaywalking on a road used frequently by large buses and other vehicles.

AP24121354475638 — Tourists gather in front of the Lawson convenience store, a popular photo spot framing a picturesque view of Mt. Fuji in the background on cloudy evening of Tuesday, April 30, 2024, (AP Photo/Eugene Hoshiko)

The town has stationed security guards and posted warnings in English to manage the crowds. However, the measures have done little to improve the situation.

A 2.5-meter high and 20-meter wide black barrier will be installed on the sidewalk by the end of May. The town has said there are no issues with the plan, as the sidewalk is its property.

“It makes me proud to think this is the best spot to see Mt. Fuji, so it is a shame, but I understand this painful decision must be made as an accident could happen anytime,” said a 72-year-old man living in the neighborhood.

Japan has seen a spike in tourism since lifting coronavirus border control steps in April 2023, with the yen’s weakness helping drive visitor numbers. The country saw a record 3.08 million foreign visitors in March.

AP24121352576150 — Tourists are packed at a train and bus station Tuesday, April 30, 2024, at Fujikawaguchiko town, Yamanashi Prefecture, central Japan. (AP Photo/Eugene Hoshiko)

The Associated Press also covered this story: “The town of Fujikawaguchiko has had enough tourists.”

Known for a number of scenic photo spots that offer a near-perfect shot of Japan’s iconic Mount Fuji, the town on Tuesday began constructing a large black screen on a stretch of a sidewalk to block the view of the mountain. The reason: misbehaving foreign tourists.

“Kawaguchiko is a town built on tourism, and I welcome many visitors, and the town welcomes them too, but there are many things about their manners that are worrying,” said Michie Motomochi, owner of a cafe serving Japanese sweets “ohagi,” near the soon-to-be-blocked photo spot.

Motomochi mentioned littering, crossing the road with busy traffic, ignoring traffic lights, trespassing into private properties. She isn’t unhappy though — 80% of her customers are foreign visitors whose numbers have surged after a pandemic hiatus that kept Japan closed for about two years.

Her neighborhood suddenly became a popular spot about two years ago, apparently after a photo taken in a particular angle showing Mount Fuji in the background, as if sitting atop a local convenience store, became a social media sensation known as “Mt. Fuji Lawson,” town officials say.

Fujikawaguchiko has tried other methods: signs urging visitors not to run into the road and to use the designated crosswalk in English, Chinese, Thai and Korean, and even hiring a security guard as crowd control. None worked.

____

An American PTSD Survivor Distributes Helmets to Thai Children

By

Khaosod English

-

30 April 2024, 17:39

PATTAYA – An American man in Pattaya gained praise on social network TikTok after posting a video titled “One helmet can protect the future,” in which he flagged down motorcyclists with children travelling along the road at Jomtien Beach and distributed helmets to them.

The account “savvyrickbrown” posted this video and gained over 1.1 million views, with many people commenting and complimenting him.

A Khaosod reporter travelled to interview Mr. Rick Brown, a 57-year-old American national, about his inspiration for doing this activity. Mr. Brown disclosed that he experienced a bicycle accident during his childhood as some kids had cut his brakes. He was not wearing a helmet at the time, therefore he suffered a neck injury.

“I struggled with PTSD during my childhood for many years until I returned to a normal life.” Having experienced some terrifying things, I understand and care about children very much, so I want to undertake this action for children and society,” Brown stated.

american helmet1 — Mr. Savvy Rick Brown said he wants to undertake this action for children and society.

The American man also stated that he lived in retirement in Thailand for a year and six months and had been regularly distributing helmets to children for the past six months with the purpose of doing something for society and ensuring children’s safety when travelling with parents. He frequently noticed Thai youngsters riding motorcycles without helmets, maybe due to monetary limitations.

Mr. Brown stated that he invests in the helmets himself. It’s a high-quality helmet that has passed safety tests. People on social media, those from his hometown in the United States, and those from other countries responded and generously donated to support him.

“My goal was to travel to various districts of Thailand and deliver over a million helmets. “I am willing to do things for Thai society because I love and like Thailand.” “Thai people interact well with each other,” he remarked.

american helmet2 — They are high-quality helmets that have passed safety tests, says Mr. Savvy Rick Brown.

RML’s Shareholders Grant the 100% Greenlight for the Increase of Capital by 3,588 Million

By

Contributor

-

30 April 2024, 17:13

RML (Raimon Land Public Company Limited) led by Brenton Justin Mauriello (3rd from right), Chief Executive Officer, Kris Narongdej (3rd from left), Korn Narongdej (2nd from left), together with committee members and the management attended the 1st Extraordinary General Meeting of Shareholders for the year of 2024.

RML’s shareholders grant the 100% greenlight for the increase of capital by 3,588 million during the Extraordinary General Meeting of Shareholders No. 1/2024.

RML (Raimon Land Public Company Limited) led by Brenton Justin Mauriello, Chief Executive Officer, Kris Narongdej, Korn Narongdej, together with committee members and the management attended the 1st Extraordinary General Meeting of Shareholders for the year of 2024 through electronic means exclusively.

The key agenda to seek for the approval of the plan to increase the registered capital by 3,588 million baht from the current 4,172 million baht, resulting in a new total of 7,760 million baht being greenlighted unanimously.

This successful capital increase reflects the confidence that the shareholders have in the company. This boost in capital will fortify the company’s financial position and provide funding to support future business expansion. During the meeting, the rest of the agenda was also unanimously approved.

“On behalf of the management, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to all shareholders and stakeholders for their unwavering trust and faith in our company. This successful capital increase, will help strengthen our organizational capacity to grow and become a leader in luxury and ultra-luxury real estate development in Thailand,” Kris said.

About RML

RML or Raimon Land Public Company Limited is a leader of luxury and ultra-luxury real estate development in Thailand that has been behind the success of various outstanding and notable projects for over 36 years. These projects include ‘The River’, ‘185 Rajdamri’, and ‘The Diplomat’ luxury condos, and ‘OCC” – the Grade A+ luxury office building in the heart of Phloen Chit, to name but a few. Each project of RML is uniquely designed based on environmentally-friendly yet highly practical concepts with every building detail featuring best-in-class materials, and is located on high potential location that further enhances the spectacular scenic view of Thailand.

Over the past several decades, RML and its projects have earned a number of prestigious accolades from many leading institutions. It has to date developed more than 25 real estate projects, valued at over 150,000 million baht, encompassing 5,600 units equivalent to over 1 million square meters in total area. We are fully committed to continually pursuing luxury and ultra-luxury projects in prime areas that offer appreciating future value.

Pleas follow RML on social media to make sure that you do not miss any of our developments by clicking the link https://linktr.ee/raimonland

or scanning the QR code below.

Hot News

LATEST NEWS