What Is Known About Kate’s Cancer Diagnosis

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23 March 2024, 09:34

Princess cancer — This grab taken from a video released by the BBC Studios on Friday March 22, 2024, shows Britain's Kate, the Princess of Wales recording her message announcing that following her abdominal surgery in January "tests after the operation found cancer had been present." Kate, said Friday she has cancer and is undergoing chemotherapy. (BBC Studios via AP)

Kate, the Princess of Wales, has disclosed that she has cancer and is undergoing chemotherapy — though in a video announcement Friday, she did not say what kind of cancer or reveal details of her treatment.

Here’s what is known:

What kind of surgery did Kate have?

Kate had what was described as abdominal surgery on Jan. 16. The news wasn’t announced until the next day, when Kensington Palace revealed that Kate was recovering from a planned operation.

At the time, officials said her condition wasn’t cancerous but did not specify what kind of surgery, saying only that it was successful.

When was Kate’s cancer found?

During the video announcement Friday, Kate said: “Tests after the operation found cancer had been present,” and that she was in the early stages of treatment.

She didn’t say what kind of cancer was found, nor did she give details of her chemotherapy. The statement from Kensington Palace said Kate found out about the cancer after post-surgery tests were done.

Is it unusual to find cancer after surgery?

While it’s rare to find cancer after surgery for a noncancerous problem, it does happen in about 4% of such surgeries, said Dr. Yuman Fong, a surgeon at City of Hope cancer center in Southern California.

“That 4% figure represents someone who’s going to the operating room for what is thought to be benign disease” such as a procedure to remove the gallbladder or ovarian cysts, Fong said.

Is it unusual to find cancer in someone so young?

Yes, cancer is rare in young adults. But in developed countries, rates of some cancers are rising among younger adults. Kate is 42.

“We hate it when young people get cancer, but at the same time, they are the ones that recover best,” Fong said.

What kind of treatment is Kate having?

The palace statement said no details would be provided about her cancer or her treatment, other than she started it in late February.

“We will not be sharing any further private medical information. The Princess has a right to medical privacy as we all do,” the statement said.

After successful surgery, chemotherapy is often used to help kill any stray cancer cells and to prevent the cancer from coming back. Treatments have evolved, and when chemo is used now, it’s sometimes for shorter periods or lower doses than it once was.

What are the side effects of chemotherapy?

Fatigue, nausea, tingling in the hands and feet, and sometimes hair loss are side effects of chemotherapy, said Dr. Monica Avila of Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa, Florida. But there are medications for improving these side effects. And cold caps that cool the scalp can prevent hair loss, Avila said.

“A patient can take anywhere from a few weeks to a month or two to recover from those effects,” Avila said. Numbness and tingling can take longer to disappear, she said.

How long will Kate’s treatment last?

The palace statement said that will be up to her doctors. “The princess is now on a recovery pathway,” the statement said.

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Related coverage:

Kate, Princess of Wales, Apologizes for Editing Family Photo That Fueled Rumors About Her Health

Luxury Home Company Reveals Most Wealthy and Foreign Clients Are in Isan

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Khaosod English

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22 March 2024, 18:49

BANGKOK – Anankorn Amornwatee, managing director of Master Plan 101 Co., Ltd., a luxury home construction company, told Matichon that most of the company’s customers are wealthy individuals or entrepreneurs, such as hotel owners, rice mills, ice factories, and online businesses.

Currently, the largest customer group, around 30 percent, is located in Northeast Thailand, or Isan, mainly in the provinces of Ubon Ratchathani, Kalasin, Yasothon, and Roi Et.

The rest is spread over Bangkok and its surroundings, Chiang Mai in the north and Chanthaburi, Rayong and Chonburi in the east. There are also foreign clients who are married to Thais and build houses worth 40-50 million baht each.

The Central and Southern regions have fewer customers because they do not build very large houses.

Master Plan surin — Master Plan, Surin Province

As far as the housing market is concerned, there is still no policy to increase housing prices, as costs have not risen sharply. There is also no problem with the shortage of labor.

In the first quarter of 2024, the high-end segment with a price of 20 million baht and above is still doing well because it is not affected by the economic situation, interest rate hikes and loan rejections from financial institutions. This is because they are borrowing less and have a good credit rating.

However, compared to the same period in 2023, the market is not as buoyant as the overall economy is not good. This is reflected in a slight decrease in the number of the company’s customers, but the value is still high. For example, the number of houses priced at 50 million baht has dropped from 50 percent to 30 percent, a decline of 20 percent. This may be partly due to the fact that the company closed deals and signed contracts with many customers at the end of 2023, resulting in a decline in the first quarter.

Master Plan has more than 10 customers and a turnover of 1 billion baht. The average customer builds a house worth 50 million baht, but there are some worth 100-500 million baht. The trend is likely to continue in the second quarter and is expected to continue in 2024.

Although the first and second quarters are not as buoyant, the third quarter is expected to be busier. The house building business is subject to a seasonal pattern. There are currently around 30 customers waiting for the company to review the design and sign the construction contracts. The company has set a sales target of more than 1 billion baht for 2024.

“Customers come to build luxury houses with us, some for 50 million baht, some for 100-200 million baht, and the most expensive is 500 million baht, which is a mansion. In 2023, there was one client, and in 2024, there was already one client in Bangkok who is a businessman, and another one in Chiang Mai for 200 million baht,” Mr. Anankorn said.

Currently, the company organizes promotions every month to promote purchasing power. There are also promotions such as free interior design and landscaping for customers worth 10 percent of the house value.

For example, those who build a luxury house worth 100 million baht will receive a discount of 10 million baht. There is also free solar roof installation, which is currently a trend that customers are interested in because it allows them to save electricity in their homes.

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Nike Deal Ends German Soccer’s Long-Standing Relationship With Adidas

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Associated Press

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22 March 2024, 18:01

BERLIN (AP) — German soccer and Adidas are breaking up.

American sportswear giant Nike will supply all of Germany’s national teams with its apparel and equipment from 2027, the German soccer federation (DFB) surprisingly announced Thursday.

The new deal extends to 2034 and ends Germany’s long-standing relationship with Adidas, which goes back some 70 years and had appeared unshakeable.

Germany’s men’s team is using Adidas’ headquarters in Herzogenaurach, near Nuremberg, as its team base for the European Championship, which Germany is hosting this summer.

Adidas appeared to be surprised by the DFB’s decision to switch to its biggest rival, only confirming in a brief statement: “We were informed by the DFB today that the association will have a new supplier from 2027.”

AP24008599654937 — FILE – West German national soccer team captain Franz Beckenbauer embraces his team mate, forward Juergen Grabowski after West Germany beat the Netherlands 2-1 in the Football World Cup Final game at the Olympic Stadium in Munich, Germany, on July 7, 1974. (AP Photo, File)

German teams wore Adidas gear for all four of the men’s World Cup titles, their three European titles, and the women’s two World Cup and eight European titles.

The DFB later defended its switch to the American kit supplier.

“We understand every emotion. It’s also a drastic event for us as an association when it becomes clear that a partnership that was and is characterized by many special moments is coming to an end after more than 70 years. That doesn’t leave us cold,” the DFB wrote on X, formerly Twitter.

It said its first priority is soccer and its development in Germany, where it is responsible for more than 24,000 clubs and 2.2 million active players. It said it invests money in member clubs and its amateur base so soccer remains a sport for the people.

“The DFB has to make economic decisions against this background. Nike made by far the best financial offer in the transparent and non-discriminatory tender process,” the DFB wrote.

AP24051322849346 — FILE – Germany players celebrate after Andreas Brehme scores the winning goal in the World Cup soccer final match against Argentina, in the Olympic Stadium, in Rome, July 8, 1990. (AP Photo/Carlo Fumagalli, File)

Earlier, DFB president Bernd Neuendorf said, “We’re looking forward to working with Nike and the trust they’ve placed in us. The future partnership will enable the DFB to continue to carry out key tasks in the coming decade with regard to the comprehensive development of soccer in Germany.”

Neuendorf pointed out that Adidas will remain the DFB’s supplier until December 2026 and “we will do everything we can to achieve shared success with our long-standing and current partner Adidas, to whom German soccer has owed a lot for more than seven decades.”

Adi Dassler, the founder of the German sportswear brand, sat on the bench beside West Germany coach Sepp Herberger when the German men’s team won the World Cup for the first time in 1954, wearing his company’s screw-in stud boots.

Germany took the World Cup title in a 1-0 match against Argentina, 14 July 2014.Dassler did not invent the boots with changeable studs, as many believe. They were invented some years before by German shoemaker Alexander Salot, who registered his invention with the German patent office on Aug. 30, 1949.

But they certainly helped the Germans beat Hungary in the 1954 World Cup final. Dassler’s company has been supplying German soccer with its gear ever since, and only last week it presented the new jerseys for Euro 2024, which Germany will host between June 14 and July 14.

Germany’s under-21 coach Antonio Di Salvo said the decision to change kit supplier was “very surprising for everyone … especially now when the new jersey for the European Championship was presented. I did not expect that.”

The switch was driven by financial and other concerns.

14053301681405330678l — Germany took the World Cup title in a 1-0 match against Argentina, 14 July 2014.

“Nike made by far the best economic offer and also impressed with its substantive vision, which includes a clear commitment to the promotion of amateur and grassroots sports as well as the sustainable development of women’s soccer in Germany,” DFB chief executive Holger Blask said.

DFB treasurer Stephan Grunwald also pointed to a rosier future for German soccer as a result of the new deal.

“We are grateful to be able to look forward to an economically stable future as an association thanks to Nike’s commitment,” Grunwald said, without providing details of what the American company will pay.

It’s clearly more than Adidas was prepared to invest to extend its existing deal. But the DFB’s decision has not met universal approval at home.

“I can hardly imagine the German jersey without the three stripes,” German Vice Chancellor Robert Habeck said. “Adidas and black-red-gold always belonged together for me, a piece of German identity. I would have liked a bit more local patriotism.”

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Phyathai-Paolo Hospital Group Expands into EEC Market

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Contributor

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22 March 2024, 17:10

Phyathai-Paolo Hospital Group Expands into EEC Market with New Hospital Launch – Phayathai Sriracha 2 Hospital Leads Thailand in Medical Tourism

Phyathai-Paolo Hospital Group is expanding its medical services in the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) region, with the official opening of Phyathai Sriracha 2 Hospital. Aligned with government policies aimed at shifting Thailand, especially the EEC special economic area, to the forefront of comprehensive healthcare in ASEAN, the hospital is a cornerstone in the medical landscape.

This move is a huge step forward in the group’s efforts to provide cutting-edge healthcare in the eastern area. Phyathai Sriracha 2 Hospital is prepared to become an entire medical hub, serving both local and foreign patients. Furthermore, it reflects Thailand’s rising importance in health tourism, establishing the country as a pioneer in promoting wellness-oriented travel experiences.

Phyathai Sriracha 2 Hospital is a general hospital with a capacity of 1,500 outpatient visits per day and 113 inpatient beds. Following the success of the first branch of Phyathai Sriracha Hospital, which has been providing care to the community for over 28 years, the growth of this hospital intends to address the health care demands of the residents of Chonburi and the surrounding areas. The hospital, which is part of the Phyathai-Paolo Hospital Group under the BDMS, focuses on delivering specialist medical services in a variety of professions, offering comprehensive and high-quality care for both typical patients and insurance holders. It has gained trust and worth in EEC, a crucial economic expansion area for the country.

Mr. Att Thongtang, CEO of Phyathai-Paolo Hospital Group, revealed that “Phyathai Sriracha Hospital is committed to continually enhancing its service capabilities to provide continuous patient care. We understand the significance of every step in the treatment process. Furthermore, the readiness of our experienced professional medical staff and cutting-edge technologies will improve the efficacy and safety of patient care.”

Mr. Att underlined the significance of strengthening medical professionals at the hospital. The Phyathai-Paolo Hospital Group actively employs professionals from various medical fields and provides scholarships to physicians and nurses for academic pursuits. Special training programs have been created for interdisciplinary healthcare teams, which include nurses, scientists, pharmacists, and medical technicians, to help them improve their medical treatment expertise. This ensures that the community accesses full healthcare services without needing to travel to Bangkok.

By integrating the Health Up application, patients can easily access medical services with just a click on their mobile devices. They can view treatment histories, schedule appointments with doctors, access health information, and utilize Telecare services, all in line. This is particularly crucial in the EEC region, where more than 400,000 people have moved and adapted modern lifestyles.

Mr. Att stated that Phyathai Sriracha Hospital has been operating since 1995 and began delivering social security services in 1999, with a focus on quality and standards. This resulted in an increase in insured individuals to around 250,000 and earned the hospital the Social Security Hospital of the Year award in the past year. Subsequently, an additional quota of 115,000 insured individuals was obtained this year. Recognizing the growing needs of service recipients, the hospital expanded its facilities to accommodate them, especially in the EEC region, where industrial and business development is continuous.

With the increasing demand for healthcare to support workers and labor groups, the Phyathai-Paolo Hospital Group invested in expanding hospital facilities in Chonburi Province. The expansion involves the launch of the new Phyathai Sriracha 2 Hospital, which intends to relieve congestion in current hospitals and develop into an essential medical center in the future. In 2025, the company plans to invest in another 225-bed hospital in the Bo Win Industrial Estate, which will serve as a healthcare hub for Chonburi residents and those in the surrounding districts.

Dr. Chanchai Leesomprasong, Director of Phyathai Sriracha Hospital, provided information stating that the first Phyathai Sriracha Hospital has been serving the community for almost three decades, continuously developing medical skills and knowledge to keep up with modern standards. This has transformed the hospital into a reliable healthcare provider for the local population, ensuring that insured individuals receive valuable services.

He emphasized the hospital’s dedication to becoming a cornerstone for the EEC community, focusing on providing quality services at reasonable prices, with a secure and accessible network, especially in the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC), an industrial area. The hospital aims to provide comprehensive care, hence expanding its services to accommodate approximately 500,000 insured individuals.

Phyathai Sriracha 2 Hospital was established to serve both general patients and those on social security. The first Phyathai Sriracha Hospital is being transformed into a center of medical excellence, with enhanced amenities to serve privileged and social security patients who are in need of complicated or specialized medical care. Services including minimally invasive surgery, heart surgery, and cancer chemotherapy have been started. In addition, plans call for the expansion of wellness and health promotion services, as well as a number of medical specialties with over 280 highly qualified doctors.

In the past year, the Hospital’s Infertility Center has been internationally recognized for its quality, receiving the AACI certification from the United States, and has been certified as a Trauma 3 center for emergency management.

Furthermore, it is currently in the process of obtaining TEMSA certification, which adheres to safety principles in three target groups: patient safety, personnel safety, and public safety, ensuring efficient emergency medical services. Phyathai Sriracha Hospital and its network are able to promptly, safely, and reliably respond to various emergency situations, serving as a cornerstone for the people of Chonburi Province and nearby areas, both Thai and international, who encounter emergency accidents.

Ms. Pramaporn Prasatthong-ost, Chief Executive Officer of Bangkok Dusit Medical Services Public Company Limited (BDMS), commented on the expansion of the medical business in the EEC, stating, “BDMS is committed to driving Thailand’s healthcare industry towards sustainable global standards, particularly in reducing disparities in access to healthcare services nationwide.

Currently, BDMS operates over 50 hospitals nationwide, with the latest addition being Piyathai Sriracha 2 Hospital under the Phyathai-Paolo Hospital Group in the Sriracha area. This expansion aims to meet the needs of the local population and support the growing industries in this area, especially in response to the continuous increase in demand for medical services.”

Expanding business in the EEC is not only about meeting market demands and fostering economic growth but also about shaping the organization’s image as a leader in medical services in the EEC area. This is part of the strategy to expand the hospital group’s business. Furthermore, it aims to help develop Thailand into an international health hub, attracting foreign investors and supporting health tourism in line with government policy. This is a proactive response to global changes and developments, ensuring effective and sustainable progress on a global scale.

Ms. Pramaporn further stated, “BDMS has been recognized as the most robust organization in the EEC area, with a clear vision to lead in medical services and healthcare excellence on an international standard. Our commitment to conducting business responsibly towards society, communities, and the environment consistently earns us wide acceptance and trust in healthcare provision across Thailand, particularly in the rapidly developing EEC region.

Additionally, we aim to create opportunities for communities in the area to benefit from medical development and investments in facilities and amenities. This stimulation contributes to long-term economic growth in the region.”

Mr. Att concluded by saying, “The BDMS group is proud of its ability to grow and cater to the requirements of all societal groups while maintaining its emphasis on offering the best possible healthcare. Phayathai Sriracha 2 Hospital will contribute to sustainable development in the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) by providing services that address community needs. We aim to provide patients with experiences of excellent care and state-of-the-art technology, all the while concentrating on training medical professionals to successfully meet our patients’ demands with top-notch medical services.”

Bangkok Dating What Makes Foreigners Appealing Partners

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Contributor

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22 March 2024, 17:04

Bangkok Dating – Bangkok Ranks in the Top 5 for the Highest Number of Registered Intercultural Marriages in Thailand!

What Makes Foreigners More Appealing Partners to Thai Women in Thailand?

Are foreigners genuinely more inclined towards love and marriage compared to Thais?

Is the financial commitment greater for foreigners than for Thais?

Or is sincerity the predominant factor for both parties?

When it comes to the topic of intercultural dating, relationship, and marriage, it seems to be a common occurrence in Thailand over the past decade. This is attributed to both the cultural openness and the changing societal norms. With advancements in communication technology, cross-border relationships have become more prevalent.

However, despite this trend, Bangkok Matching, Thailand’s leading and longest running high-end matchmaking company, believes that many are still unaware that intercultural dating and marriages in Thailand are not predominantly occurring in the northeastern region, as commonly perceived. Statistics from the Department of Provincial Administration reveal that Bangkok ranks highest in the registration of marriages between Thai women and foreign men, including Thai men marrying foreign women, over the past 3 years.

Bangkok stands out significantly from other provinces. With this in mind, Bangkok Matching, Bangkok’s Dating and Matchmaking Agency invites everyone to delve deeper into the Thailand’s intercultural marriage statistics to understand the magnitude and nature of these high registration rates.

Statistics reveal that Bangkok ranks in the Top 5 provinces with the highest number of registered marriages with foreigners in Thailand. This includes marriages between Thai men and foreign women, as well as Thai women and foreign men.

Bangkok topped the list in the year 2566 (Buddhist calendar), with a staggering 5,872 registered couples. Following Bangkok are Chiang Mai with 746 couples, Chonburi with 727 couples, and Chiang Rai with 391 couples. The Top 5 list concludes with the tourist destination of Phuket, registering 343 couples.

Looking back over the past 3 years, there has been a clear increase in the rate of marriages between Thai and foreign individuals. In 2564, there were 2,299 registered couples, including 167 Thai men marrying foreign women and 2,132 Thai women marrying foreign men. In 2565, this figure jumped to 4,819 couples, with 538 Thai men marrying foreign women and 4,281 Thai women marrying foreign men. The trend continued to rise significantly in 2566, with a total of 5,872 registered couples.

Notably, there was an increase in Thai men marrying foreign women, rising from 100 couples to 1,029 couples in this year alone. Thai women marrying foreign men reached 4,843 couples, showing a continuous and clear increase.

These statistics from the Department of Provincial Administration dispel the common belief that intercultural dating, relationship and marriages predominantly occur in the northeastern region of Thailand.

Today, intercultural dating and marriages are widely accepted and viewed positively by society, leading to a continuous increase in marriage rates and registrations. Bangkok, as the capital and central hub of Thailand, consistently leads in the registration of marriages between Thai and foreign individuals each year.

One notable observation made by the high-end matchmaking company Bangkok Matching is the significant difference in the number of registered marriages between Thai men and foreign women, compared to Thai women and foreign men.

The data clearly shows that there are substantially more Thai women registering marriages with foreign men than Thai men registering marriages with foreign women. When comparing the numbers, there were only 1,734 Thai men marrying foreign women over the past 3 years, whereas Thai women marrying foreign men reached a remarkable 11,256 couples. This indicates that Thai women marrying foreign men outnumber Thai men marrying foreign women by a factor of approximately 6.5.

At Bangkok Matching, foreign men seeking Thai women for serious dating, relationship and marriage typically possess high-profile backgrounds, excellent education, and affluent status, ranging from holders of master’s and doctoral degrees to business owners, doctors, engineers, and professionals from various fields. Many of these individuals, hailing from diverse corners of the globe, express a strong desire to date Thai women. However, there is a smaller number of foreign women seeking Thai men through the same service.

This analysis suggests that not only are Thai women open to and interested in marrying foreign spouses, but foreigners themselves also seek Thai wives with outstanding profiles. Consequently, the marriage rate between Thai women and foreign men continues to rise each year, with a trend indicating further increases.

Now, it’s essential to delve into why there is such a significant difference in the number of Thai men and women marrying foreigners. Is it due to reasons of preference, cultural values, or other factors influencing the decision-making process regarding marriage and registration with foreign partners?

4 Reasons Why Thais are Marrying Foreigners More

Through research on “Thai Women’s Marriage to Foreigners” we have uncovered intriguing insights into why Thais choose to marry foreigners. These insights address key questions that many readers may have. Are foreigners more sincere in love? Do they offer more romance or financial stability?

Bangkok Matching has identified 4 primary reasons behind the increasing trend of Thai women marrying foreigners. Below is a sample of what makes foreigners more appealing partners to Thai women in Thailand.

1.Changing Social Norms: Thai women, especially those with high profiles, are increasingly marrying foreigners based on their own preferences and tastes, rather than solely for the purpose of elevating their social status or that of their families. Previously, it was often assumed that Thai women married foreigners to escape poverty or improve their social standing. However, this belief is gradually fading as Thai women with education, social status, or financial independence are more open to dating and marrying foreigners. The stability and equality in foreign partners’ status and financial capabilities offer new opportunities and perspectives compared to marrying Thai men.

2.Past Relationship Experiences: Thai women may be drawn to foreigners due to negative experiences in past relationships with Thai men. Many cite foreigners’ perceived attentiveness and caring nature as significant factors. This perception stems from issues such as domestic violence, infidelity, and feeling undervalued by Thai partners, contributing to a significant portion of Thai women experiencing domestic abuse, with up to 62.5% citing such experiences. Consequently, foreign men are viewed as more caring, emotionally supportive, and financially reliable partners.

3.Age Limitations Are Less of a Concern: In Thai society, finding a partner becomes increasingly challenging with age, particularly for women. However, in Western societies, age is not a significant barrier to finding love. Additionally, having a previous marriage or children is not a major obstacle to remarriage for Westerners, contrasting with traditional Thai expectations. Therefore, Thai women are more open to relationships and marriages with older foreign men, regardless of their age or family background.

4.Broadened Perspectives: Thai women appreciate foreign partners’ broader perspectives on gender roles and domestic responsibilities. In Thai society, women are often expected to take on traditional roles as homemakers and caretakers, even if they are successful professionals. Foreign men, however, are more likely to share household duties and childcare responsibilities equally, viewing such contributions as essential rather than optional. This mindset aligns with the desires of modern Thai women for equality and fairness in relationships, making foreigners more appealing partners.

These reasons collectively reflect a shift in Thai women’s attitudes towards relationships and marriage, with an increasing number seeking compatibility and understanding over traditional gender roles.

To Learn More about Bangkok Matching and Bangkok Dating Tips:

Bangkok Matching’s Blog: https://www.bangkokmatching.com/en/blog/

Facebook Thai Fanpage: https://www.facebook.com/bangkokmatching.fanpage/

Facebook English Fanpage:

https://www.facebook.com/ThaiDatingServiceAgency

Twitter: https://twitter.com/BangkokMatching

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bangkokmatching

Bangkok Matching Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5EbBMpGCiOwAZE4R7GLZ_Q

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/bangkokmatching

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/bangkokmatching

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bangkokmatching

Bangkok Matching Office Direction: https://goo.gl/maps/3ogBsbto3Mu

Line Official: https://page.line.me/bangkokmatching

Five Bangladeshis Hide in a Holed Truck; Found in Songkhla

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Khaosod English

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22 March 2024, 15:16

SONGKHLA – Immigration officials in Songkhla province stopped a 10-wheeler truck on Asia Highway in Rattaphum district and found five Bangladeshis hiding in the cargo hold.

The truck, with a Nakhon Pathom license plate, was driven by 49-year-old Mr. Suwan, who aroused the officers’ suspicion on Thursday. The Bangladeshis were found hiding in the cargo compartment, which had a hole drilled in the floor for ventilation.

Mr. Suwan confessed that he had been hired to transport the five Bangladeshis from Prachinburi province to Songkhla for a fee of 1,000 baht per person. He said he had smuggled illegal immigrants many times before, with the highest number being 20-24 people.

The Bangladeshis said they had traveled illegally from Cambodia and were hoping to work in Malaysia. They had paid 400,000 taka (about 100,000 baht) each for the journey.
Mr. Suwan was charged with aiding and abetting illegal immigration, while the five Bangladeshis were charged with entering and remaining in the kingdom without permission. They were all taken to the Rattaphum Police Station for further processing.

According to a report by the Department of Employment of the Ministry of Labor, a total of 25,628 checks were carried out for illegal foreign workers from 1 October 2023 to 18 March 2024. Of these, 820 cases resulted in legal action, with 1,689 illegal foreign workers found.
It was found that 721 of these workers are taking jobs away from Thais, mainly in Bangkok and the surrounding areas, Phuket, Samui, Pattaya and Chiang Mai.

The most common occupations for illegal foreign workers are: Market vendors, nail salon workers, car mechanics, street vendors, food vendors and workers in pubs and bars
The occupations in which illegal foreign workers most often take jobs from Thais are: Door-to-door sales, hairdressing, driving and massage

Of the 1,689 people who were prosecuted, 875 were from Myanmar, 318 from Cambodia, 231 from Laos, 87 from Vietnam and 178 from other countries. Recently, more and more Bangladeshis have been apprehended, especially when trying to cross the border into Malaysia.

CP Foods Leads Water Conservation Efforts with Innovative Tech Initiatives

By

Contributor

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22 March 2024, 14:29

CP Foods Leads Water Conservation Efforts with Innovative Tech Initiatives on World Water Day 2024

Charoen Pokphand Foods Public Company Limited (CP Foods) is committed to responsible water resource management by incorporating advanced technology throughout its production chain to conserve water sustainably.

The company also shares expertise with local communities and farmers, enabling them to access sufficient good quality water during droughts and maintain stable growth. This initiative aligns with the celebration of World Water Day 2024’s theme, “Leveraging Water for Peace.”

Ms. Kobboon Srichai, Head of Corporate Affairs & Investor Relations at CP Foods, emphasizes that as the integrated agro-industrial and food sectors CP Foods realizes water stewardship is a vital aspect of the company’s sustainability commitment to secure quality water sources for the communities.

CP Foods focuses on optimizing water-use efficiency within the organization and reducing amount of freshwater from external water sources through adopting innovation and technology solutions adhering to the 3Rs Principle (Reducing, Reusing, and Recycling) : Reducing water consumption, Reusing water without treatement process, and Recycling treated water.

This approach has led to a significant reduction in water withdrawal per production unit by over 50% when compared to 2015 across its operations in eight countries including Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia, India, the Philippines and Turkiye.

Distinguished innovations and technology related to water stewardship such as Biofloc technology for wastewater treatment within shrimp farms and Ultrafiltration technology have been implemented to enhance water efficiency and minimize freshwater usage. These technologies have enabled shrimp farms to cut external water withdrawal by up to 75%. Additionally, CP Foods has adopted an air chilled system in chicken processing plants, reducing water usage by about 15% compared to water chilled method.

The company repurposes treated water for various non-production-related activities, such as cleaning, irrigation, and road washing. Meanwhile, it utilizes advanced reverse osmosis filtration to treat wastewater for use in the cooling down in refrigeration system and cleaning tools and equipment. This initiative allowed CP Foods to reuse and recycle 19.5% of its total water withdrawal in 2023, equivalent to 47.3 million liters.

Beyond its internal operations, CP Foods extends its water management insights to farmers and communities through collaboration projects like the fertilizer (recycled) water sharing program, the groundwater bank initiative, and the ‘Rak Lam Nam Mun’ project. These efforts aim to foster sustainable water resource management and conservation for the benefit of local communities and future generations.

As India’s Election Nears, Some Bollywood Films Promote Modi Politics by Embracing Hindu Nationalism

By

Associated Press

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22 March 2024, 13:16

Hindu — People walk past a large poster of the movie Swatantra Veer Savarkar displayed outside a cinema hall in Mumbai, India, Thursday, Mar. 21, 2024. (AP Photo/Rajanish Kakade)

NEW DELHI (AP) — The movie trailer begins with an outline of the iconic glasses worn by Mohandas Gandhi, the leader who helped India win independence from the British colonialists in 1947. In the backdrop of a devotional song that Gandhi loved, the outline slowly morphs into what appears like his face.

Then, a raucous beat drops, followed by a rap song. A face is finally revealed: not Gandhi, but an actor who plays the independence leader’s ideological nemesis, Vinayak Damodar Savarkar — the man considered the fountainhead of Hindu nationalism in India.

It is the same ideology Prime Minister Narendra Modi has harnessed to cement his power as his ruling party makes strides in its quest to turn the secular country into a Hindu nation.

The glorified biopic on the early 20th-century Hindu nationalist ideologue — called “Swatantra Veer Savarkar,” or “Independent Warrior Savarkar” — hits Indian theatres Friday, just weeks ahead of a national vote that is set to determine the political direction of the country for the next five years. The movie coincides with a cluster of upcoming Bollywood releases based on polarizing issues, which either promote Modi and his government’s political agenda, or lambast his critics.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi speaks at the inauguration of the revamped Central Vista Avenue at the India Gate in New Delhi, India, Thursday, Sept. 8, 2022. Photo: Manish Swarup / AP

Analysts say the use of popular cinema as a campaign tool to promote Hindu nationalism feeds into a divisive narrative that risks exacerbating the already widespread political and religious rifts in the country.

Raja Sen, a film critic and Bollywood screenwriter, said movies used to represent a mix of nationalistic cinema and films promoting national integration.

“That appears to be fast changing,” Sen said. “The scary part is that these films are being accepted now. It is truly frightening.”

For more than a century, Bollywood has unified India, a country riven with religious, caste and political divide. It’s been a rare industry where religion has been least influential in deciding the success of filmmakers and actors. Bollywood films have also championed political diversity and religious harmony.

That culture, however, appears to be under threat.

Under Modi’s Hindu nationalist government, many filmmakers have made movies on bygone Hindu kings extolling their bravery. Boisterous and action-packed movies valorizing the Indian Army have become box office successes. Political dramas and biopics that eulogize Hindu nationalists are the norm.

In most of these films, the stock villains are medieval Muslim rulers, leftist or opposition leaders, free thinkers or rights activists — and neighboring Pakistan, India’s arch rival.

The biopic on Sarvarkar, who advocated for India’s future as a Hindu nation, is emblematic of this broader trend.

Two more upcoming films claim to reveal a conspiracy about a 2002 train fire in western Gujarat state that ignited one of the worst anti-Muslim riots in India. More than 1,000 people, mostly Muslims, were killed in riots. It was a hugely controversial episode in Modi’s political career, as he was the chief minister of Gujarat at the time.

Another film claims to expose the “anti-national agenda” of a university in the capital, New Delhi. The film is loosely based on Jawaharlal Nehru University, one of the country’s premier liberal institutions that has become a target of Hindu nationalists and leaders from Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party.

Many past films with similar themes became box office successes. Modi’s party often publicly endorsed them despite criticism of his government for stifling dissent.

In February, Modi himself praised “Article 370,” a film that celebrated his government’s controversial decision to strip Indian-controlled Kashmir of its special status and statehood in 2019. Some film reviewers called the movie “factually incorrect” and a “thinly veiled propaganda film” favoring the government.

AP24081474537173 — A man stands next to a poster of the movie Article 370 displayed at a cinema hall in Guwahati, India, Thursday, March 21, 2024. (AP Photo/Anupam Nath)

“The Kerala Story,” the ninth-highest grossing Hindi film of 2023, was widely panned for inaccuracies in depicting Christian and Hindu girls from India’s southern Kerala state who were lured to join the Islamic State. The film was banned in two states ruled by opposition parties, who said it was Islamophobic and would destroy religious harmony.

At the same time, at least three states ruled by Modi’s party made tickets to see the film tax-free and held mass screenings. Modi himself endorsed viewing the film during a state election rally.

Sudipto Sen, the film’s director, said the movie exposed the “nexus between religious fundamentalism and terrorism” through a human story, and did not vilify Muslims.

“You can’t ignore the emotional appeal of these films. In fact, every state government should endorse them,” Sen said.

AP24022264190466 — A general view of the audience during the opening of a temple dedicated to Hindu deity Lord Ram, in Ayodhya, India, Monday, Jan.22, 2024 (AP Photo/Rajesh Kumar Singh)

Another of Sen’s films, based on Maoist insurgency in central Indian jungles, was released March 15. Its primary villains, apart from the insurgents, were rights activists and left-leaning intellectuals. One critic called it “two hours of diatribe against communism.”

While such films have been applauded by India’s right, other Bollywood movies have fallen into the crosshairs of Hindu nationalists.

Right-wing groups have frequently threatened to block the release of films they deem offensive to Hinduism. Hindu activists often make calls on social media to boycott such films.

Some filmmakers caught up in India’s increasingly restrictive political environment say they’re resorting to self-censorship.

“People like me feel disempowered,” said Onir, a National Award-winning filmmaker who goes by just one name.

Onir has made widely acclaimed films highlighting LGBTQ+ rights. In 2022, Onir wanted to make a movie inspired by a former Indian army major who falls in love with a local man in disputed Kashmir, where armed rebels seeking independence or a merger with Pakistan have fought Indian rule for decades. The film’s script was rejected by India’s defense ministry because it was “distorting the image of Indian army,” the filmmaker said.

“Look at the films that are getting released now. Any film that goes against the government’s narrative is called anti-national. There is no fair ground. In fact, there is an atmosphere of fear,” Onir said.

Polarizing films — which Onir noted constitute most of the recent releases, while movies focusing on discrimination against minorities face hurdles — tend to make big money, signaling the appetite for such content.

Some say the rise in divisive films reflects opportunism among filmmakers.

“The idea that this is the way to success has permeated into Bollywood,” said Raja Sen, the critic and screenwriter.

He said such films make good business sense because of the noise they generate, even though they serve as the cinematic equivalent of “WhatsApp forwards” — a reference to misinformation and propaganda spread on the social messaging platform.

“Indian films need an artistic rebellion. I hope we can start seeing that,” Sen said.

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AIS Pioneers 5G SA Network Innovation by Allowing Two SIM Cards

By

Contributor

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22 March 2024, 09:21

AIS showcases capabilities on groundbreaking network innovation, enabling simultaneous usage of two SIM cards on 5G SA (DSDA) for the first time in Thailand.

AIS reaffirms its leadership of 5G, leading the way in advancing the digital experience for Thais. For the first time in the Thai telecommunications industry, customers can instantly use two SIMs simultaneously (Dual Active) without needing to configure on the 5G SA (Standalone) smart network.

Leveraging the cutting-edge innovation of Dual SIM Dual Active (DSDA) technology, now available on flagship smartphones such as the Xiaomi 14 Series. This advancement elevates customer experience, meeting lifestyle demands comprehensively.

Mr. Wasit Wattanasap, Head of Nationwide Operations and Support Business Unit, AIS said, “Beyond advancing the expansion and fortification of the nation’s digital infrastructure, AIS’s pivotal mission lies in harnessing the potential of 5G smart networks to intertwine customers’ digital experiences across all dimensions. The first and only provider in Thailand the development of Voice over 5G New Radio (VoNR) technology on the 5G SA network, ensuring users encounter exemplary usage quality and enriched experiences, enabling customers to communicate with utmost clarity on AIS’s most spectrum on the 5G SA network efficiently. Presently, we are able to deliver 5G SA services covering over 85% of the population in Bangkok.”

“Today, we’ve elevated our customers’ usage experience to a new level by setting a new standard in the industry. For the first time in Thailand, we introduce the latest network innovation, Dual SIM Dual Active (DSDA) technology, allowing customers to use their smartphones with both Data and Voice simultaneously. This enables seamless internet browsing or continuous online gaming without interruption, even when receiving calls on the second SIM.”

“For traditional dual SIM usage on smartphones, it operates under the DSDS (Dual SIM Dual Standby) mode, which comes with limitations. This means that making a call or using data concurrently is only possible on one SIM at a time. If a call is made using one SIM, the other SIM will be immediately deactivated for both voice and data until the first SIM disconnects the call. This might inconvenience customers in real-world usage scenarios.

However, with the Dual SIM Dual Active (DSDA) innovation, it revolutionizes the experience for customers using dual SIM smartphones, allowing both SIMs to be active simultaneously without any additional settings. This is achievable with the primary and secondary SIMs operating on the AIS 5G network that supports VoNR (Voice over 5G New Radio) or VoLTE (Voice Over LTE).”

Smooth internet and voice call (Data + Voice) usage without interruptions on the primary SIM card. Even with incoming calls from SIM 2 or simultaneous usage of both SIMs (Voice + Voice), ensuring no missed important communications, regardless of which SIM is using the line. The other SIM can still receive calls or make outgoing calls seamlessly. Instant switching when receiving a call, allowing the choice to either hold the current call or answer the call on the other SIM. Utilizing Voice + SMS/MMS while on a call, receiving SMS/MMS from the other SIM without having to disconnect.

“We continue to advance innovation in smart network technology for the telecommunications industry both domestically and internationally, striving for the best user experience in every aspect. Today, we have successfully developed the DSDA innovation in collaboration with Xiaomi, seamlessly integrated with flagship smartphones like the Xiaomi 14 Series. We anticipate more smartphones supporting this technology to be launched soon.” concluded Mr. Wasit.

For AIS customers who wish to experience the DSDA innovation on 5G SA, you can now reserve the Xiaomi 14 Series, including Xiaomi 14 Ultra and Xiaomi 14, at AIS Shops nationwide.

A Missing Canadian Man Is Found Dead Under the Ratchaburi Train Platform

By

Khaosod English

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22 March 2024, 09:09

RATCHABURI – After searching all night, railway police uncovered the body of a Canadian man who had gone missing from the train.

Railway police officers requested assistance from police at 191 at 10:30 p.m. on Wednesday, March 20, to locate a foreigner named Ralph Ryan Joseph, 26 years old, a Canadian tourist travelling on train number 168 from Bangkok to Chumphon and Kantang, fearing that he would fall off the train.

They learned that Mr. Ralph and his friends had bought a ticket to Chumphon train station, but he vanished from the train around Ban Kluay Temple in Tha Rap Subdistrict, Mueang District, Ratchaburi Province. He had told friends that he was going to smoke outside the bogie.

After more than 30 minutes, he did not come back. His friend then alerted the railway police. Later, 191 police officers and rescuers from the Prachanukul Ratchaburi Foundation arrived to assist with the search on foot.

Mr. Ralph’s companions then reported to the railway police at 8:30 a.m. on Thursday, March 21, that the GPS signal from the Canadian man’s phone had ended up near Khlong Bang Tan Railway Station, Nong Kop Subdistrict, Ban Pong District.

Then, the Ban Pong Police Station in Ratchaburi Province and the Traffic Police Station joined forces with tourist police, railway police, and rescue teams to conduct a search from Khlong Bang Tan Railway Station in Nong Kop Subdistrict to the contact area of Photharam Police Station, which took several hours.

The Photharam Police Station received information about the discovery of a foreign man’s body beneath the Chet Samian train station platform in Village No. 1, Chet Samian Subdistrict. The platform’s cement bars revealed blood stains, and the body, near the train tracks, had cuts, particularly on the left thigh.

canada ratchaburi3 — The platform’s cement bars showed blood stains, and the body near the train tracks had cuts, particularly on the left thigh.

Mr. Makala, a 23-year-old Cambodian worker, stated that during his lunch break, he normally sleeps under the platform. Today, when he went in, he discovered the body of a foreign man. He felt shocked and quickly alerted his boss to notify officials to come and investigate.

According to authorities, a cement bar next to the platform may have struck Mr Ralph in the leg. It was just about 50 cm from the train, and there was insufficient light, so the Canadian man may not have seen it. When he raised his leg, he might have hit a cement bar, causing the body to fall. He probably tried to crawl beneath the platform to seek aid, but he died from blood loss.

Authorities sent his body to the Forensic Institute to perform an autopsy to determine the cause of death and coordinated with the embassy to contact Ralph’s family.

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