First Pet Healthcare Expo Offers Free Check-ups & Vaccinations

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15 March 2024, 17:38

Pet Healthcare96 — (Photo by Rattaseema Phongsan / Matichon)

BANGKOK – Matichon Public Company Limited, in collaboration with partner organizations, has announced the launch of ‘Pet Healthcare 2024, the first ever Pet Healthcare Expo in Thailand’ to be held from March 28-31, 2024 at MCC Hall, The Mall Bangkapi, Bangkok.

The event will feature free pet health checks conducted by leading Thai veterinarians from Kasetsart College, Chulalongkorn College and Mahidol College, as well as seminars, workshops, pet product shopping, celebrity pet appearances and a special campaign to support sick animals.

Parnbua Boonparn, Managing Director of Matichon Public Company Limited, explained at the press conference on March 14 that the company has been promoting health activities for humans for 15 years and now wants to include pets in its offerings. This event aims to cater to the growing trend of pet ownership, especially among the elderly and the Double Income No Kids (DINKs) society. These days, it’s all about being pet friendly and treating pets like family members.

pet healthcare7 — The main organising committee joined to talk on the press conference stage at MCC Hall, The Mall Bangkapi, Bangkok, on March 14, 2024. (Photo by Rattaseema Phongsan / Matichon)

Udom Chanprapaiphat, Director of Livestock Standards Group, Department of Livestock Development, added that the Pet Healthcare Expo will have experts on hand to advise on pet food choices and provide opportunities for those interested in a career in this field.

“When it comes to choosing pet food, it’s important to understand that dogs and cats have different nutritional needs at different stages of their lives. In addition, some of the nutrients necessary for cats cannot be synthesized by the body and must therefore be included in the diet. Furthermore, feeding pets the wrong food for their life stage can lead to long-term health problems. It’s also important to follow your veterinarian’s recommendations for combining food and medication and to always read labels carefully before purchasing pet food,” says Udom.

pet healthcare4 — Parnbua Boonparn, Managing Director of Matichon Public Company Limited (centre), attended a press conference at MCC Hall, The Mall Bangkapi, Bangkok, on March 14, 2024. (Photo by Rattaseema Phongsan / Matichon)

Sittapol Iamvisut, Director of the Bangkok Metropolitan Public Health Veterinary Office, emphasized Bangkok’s commitment to animal welfare, which ranges from the registration of pets to the establishment of veterinary clinics. There are currently more than 20 veterinary clinics in operation and efforts are being made to ensure future regulations to prevent the abandonment of pets and control stray animal populations.

“We encourage Bangkok residents to register their pets with the city administration to facilitate microchip implantation. In cases of lost pets, scanning the microchip can help reunite them with their owners. Additionally, our pet control centers accept and care for abandoned animals until they are adopted or reach the end of their lives,” Sittapol explained.

pet healthcare91 — Charlie and Khaotoo pose at the promotion board of the First Pet Healthcare Expo. (Photo by Rattaseema Phongsan / Matichon)

pet healthcare12 — Gano and Barrol, the cat celebs (Photo by Worawit Panichnan Matichon)

Walasinee Sakcamduang, Dean at Faculty of Veterinary Science, Mahidol University, expressed her perspective as a longtime pet owner, stating that pets are not just companions; they are family members.

“With about 30 years of experience in pet care, I have seen the standards of Thai pet care improve significantly. Sometimes even too much,” said Walasinee.

Chaiyot Thanratana, director of the Animal Hospital at Chulalongkorn College’s Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, reiterated the current trend of referring to pet owners as ‘pet parents’ and emphasized the importance of providing pets with the best care, including clothing, food and health.

Pet Healthcare97 — From left: Asst. Prof. Dr. Nirut Suwanna, of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine at Kasetsart University; Dr. Walasinee Sakkhamduang, Dean of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine at Mahidol University; Dr. Chaiyot Thanratana, of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine at Chulalongkorn University; Sittapol Iamvisut, Director of the Bangkok Metropolitan Public Health Veterinary Office; and Parnbua Boonparn, Managing Director of Matichon Public Company Limited.

pets add — Pak Wimon Thongta, owner of Asia Big Dog Farm, with two dogs from her farm. (Photo by Rattaseema Phongsan / Matichon)

He added: “Just like humans, pets can suffer from various illnesses. While we see the best specialists for our human family members, it is also important to consult general veterinarians for general pet health care.”

Finally, Chaiyot explained the activities planned for the exhibition, stating that this is the first time Matichon is organizing such an event. Key activities include health checks and rabies vaccinations for pets as well as consultations in various specialties such as neurology, ophthalmology, exotic pets and diabetes.

Pet Healthcare95 — (Photo by Rattaseema Phongsan / Matichon)

Pet Healthcare94 — (Photo by Rattaseema Phongsan / Matichon)

pet healthcare5 — (Photo by Rattaseema Phongsan / Matichon)

pet healthcare92 — (Photo by Rattaseema Phongsan / Matichon)

pet healthcare2 — (Photo by Rattaseema Phongsan / Matichon)

pet healthcare1 — (Photo by Rattaseema Phongsan / Matichon)

pet healthcare6 — (Photo by Rattaseema Phongsan / Matichon)

pet healthcare11 — (Photo by Worawit Panichnan Matichon)

pet healthcare98 — (Photo by Worawit Panichnan Matichon)

B.Grimm Power and ONEP Unite to Protect Nature and Biodiversity

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Contributor

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15 March 2024, 17:30

B.Grimm Power Public Company Limited and the Office of Natural Resources and Environmental Policy and Planning (ONEP) have joined hands through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) aimed at collaborating on biodiversity conservation efforts. This partnership is driven by a shared commitment to champion the preservation and restoration of natural resources and biodiversity while enhancing public awareness and understanding.

The collaborative endeavors encompass the exchange of knowledge, information, and the development of databases related to biodiversity to ensure alignment of private sector energy projects with national strategies and policies on biodiversity conservation. This commitment underscores adherence to the Convention on Biological Diversity and relevant environmental agreements among countries.

Mr. Don Tayatan, Executive Vice President of Customer Relations and Operation Management 2 at B.Grimm Power Public Company Limited, humbly shared the company’s recognition and emphasis on the importance of biodiversity conservation. With a steadfast commitment to enhancing electricity generation while responsibly utilizing natural resources, the company is dedicated to fostering collaboration.

This collaboration seeks to facilitate the exchange of data, academic insights, opinions, and suggestions to advance energy projects across both public and private sectors. The overarching aim is to address threats to biodiversity and forest loss, alongside the development of local-level databases integrated with Thailand’s Biodiversity Information Facility (TH-BIF).

Jirawat Ratisunthon, Deputy Secretary-General of ONEP, expressed that the collaboration aims to lay the groundwork for a meaningful cooperation network. This network seeks to promote and bolster activities in line with the core missions of all involved parties, encompassing endeavors related to biodiversity conservation, restoration, and sustainable utilization. Initiatives such as public relations campaigns and the establishment of cooperation networks for biodiversity conservation between the private sector and neighboring communities are part of this effort. It is hoped that this collaboration will serve as a stepping stone in raising awareness and fostering understanding of biodiversity conservation and sustainable practices, ultimately benefiting society as a whole.

The collaboration between B.Grimm Power and ONEP underscores notable progress in conducting business operations within a sustainable development framework. This includes advancing and effectively utilizing data regarding biological resource utilization, which is anticipated to yield collective benefits for the country and its citizens in the future.

Siam Piwat’s “Thainess Station” Introduces “Pha Khao Ma” As a Trend

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15 March 2024, 17:27

Siam Piwat embraces the trending of Thai “Pha Khao Ma” with the opening of three Absolute Siam Stores “THAINESS STATION: Thai Products Unify Thai Communities,”

The Thai government is collaborating with private sectors to introduce a new project to leverage Thai products from local communities. The campaign entitled “THAINESS STATION: Thai Products Unify Thai Communities,” will feature the showcase and sale of Thai handicrafts such as “Pha Khao Ma” or Thai loincloth, basketry products from “Kra Jood” or bulrush and indigo dye fabric alongside numerous handicrafts by local artisan.

These handicrafts will be introduced to locals and tourists at Absolute Siam Store, which runs by Thailand’s leading property and retail developer Siam Piwat. The Absolute Siam Store offers creative and unique fashion, lifestyle and Thai souvenir products.

The collaboration reinforces Absolute Siam’s continuing committment to support and promote Thai creative design and handicraft products as well as increasing income for local communities that aligns with the government’s plan.

Three new Absolute Siam’s pop-up shops called “THAINESS STATION: Thai Products Unify Thai Communities,” are now opens at Siam Paragon on the M Floor, Siam Center on the G Floor and ICONSIAM on the 1 Floor, to 30 April 2024.

Absolute Siam Store, managed by Siam Piwat group, embraces the government’s initiative and the Thailand’s ‘Soft Power’ trend that promotes products and services that has earned international recognition, among them are Pha Khao Ma” or Thai loincloth and basketry products from “Kra Jood” or bulrush along with numerous local handicrafts. “Pha Khao Ma” is an all-purpose Thai cotton fabric with vibrant checkered patterns, which differentiated it from other traditional textiles.

The fabric from different provinces are created in different pattern and colors, reflecting the uniqueness of each community. The popularity of Pha Khao Ma is not only from its catchy appearance but also its diverse utility. It can be worn, used for cleaning or as decorative accessories, and gifts. It also inspired many contemporary fashion products that are both trendy and practical.

The current trending of Pha Kao Ma has brought the “Absolute Siam Thai Souvenirs” and the opening of three pop-up shops “THAINESS STATION: Thai Products Uniting for Communities” at three globally-renowned destinations including M floor of Siam Paragon, G floor of Siam Center, and 1st floor of ICONSIAM, which attract both local Thai customers and tourists from around the world.

The Pha Kao Ma products are carefully selected and sourced directly from local artisans, offering a wide variety of designs including naturally dyed, handwoven, hundred-color Pha Khao Ma, scarves, Pha Khao Ma with elephant-patterned, flower-pressed patterned and many more signature patterns from provinces such as Ratchaburi, Udon Thani, Nong Khai, Khon Kaen, Chaiyaphum, Sa Kaeo, Nakhon Ratchasima, Surin, Buriram and Lampang.

Visitors will find numerous ideas of Pha Khao Ma creativity designed into various fashion piece and other items such as dresses, skirts, shirts, colorful trousers, backpacks, shoulder bags, elephant toys, and neck pillows.

In addition, there are also various designs of “Kra Jood bags” and “woven Kra Jood bags” suitable for both daily use and as beautiful gifts sourcing from provinces such as Nakhon Si Thammarat, Songkhla, Phuket, and others. There will also feature many other handmade products by local artisans.

Be a part to support Thai artisanal products to generate income and showcase their work to the world at “THAINESS STATION: Thai Products Uniting for Communities,” from today to April 30, 2024 at M floor of Siam Paragon, G floor of Siam Center, and 1st floor of ICONSIAM.

CP Foods Wins Two Regional Awards for Sustainability Reporting

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Contributor

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15 March 2024, 16:18

CP Foods Wins Two Regional Awards for Outstanding Sustainability Reporting on Human Rights and Environment in Asia

Charoen Pokphand Foods Public Company Limited (CP Foods), a leading food producer, was honored by two prestigious accolades of the Asia Sustainability Reporting Awards (ASRA) 2023. CP Foods was awarded the “Asia’s Best Sustainability Report (Human Rights)” Silver Award and the “Asia’s Best Environmental Impact Reporting” Bronze Award, acknowledging the company’s exemplary sustainability disclosure practices.

CP Foods’ reporting for the year 2022 was distinguished for its clarity, comprehensiveness, accuracy, and transparency, earning it this well-deserved recognition.

CP Foods earned these distinctions through its comprehensive disclosure of policies, clear goal-setting, and transparent reporting of operational performance, covering human rights and environmental impacts. These efforts align with the expectations of stakeholders at the global level.

The company places significant emphasis on human rights throughout its value chain, dedicating to communicating accurate, precise, and transparent operational outcomes to all stakeholders. This communication encompasses various aspects, including the company’s Human Rights Due Diligence Framework (HRDD), which integrates policies and measures to manage risks and mitigate impacts related to human rights.

CP Foods continuously integrates human rights considerations into its operations based on diversity, equality, and inclusivity principles, such as fair labor practices, ethical recruitment, handling of complaints, and remediation for violations.

In addition to sustainability reports, CP Foods has publicized this information through other channels, including annual reports (Form 56-1 One Report) and various online platforms such as the company website, news portals, and social media.

Moreover, CP Foods has enhanced its environmental reporting to meet the expectations of stakeholders, including achieving environmental targets and creating shared value with society through various environmental projects. These efforts include disclosing financial information related to climate-related risks and opportunities, as well as strategies for climate change mitigation and achieving net-zero emissions.

CP Foods’ sustainability reporting also highlights achievements in reducing water withdrawal for production units through efficient water management measures, adhering the 3Rs approach (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle), and increasing green spaces both domestically and internationally. So far, the company has planted over 5.4 million trees worldwide, contributing to the absorption of over 39,000 tons of carbon dioxide per year.

The Asia Sustainability Reporting Awards (ASRA), organized by CSR Works International Pte. Ltd., recognize excellence in sustainable development practices through the reporting and disclosure of outcomes. CP Foods has been honored with these awards for the fifth consecutive year, underscoring its commitment to sustainability and transparency.

More Foreigners Caught Running Phangan’s Illegal Childcare

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Khaosod English

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15 March 2024, 15:27

The police discovered an unlicensed international childcare facility in Moo 3, Koh Phangan sub-district, Surat Thani province.

KOH PHANGAN – Several departments of Surat Thani province, including Immigration Department officials, Koh Phangan Police Station Tourist Police and Social Development and Human Security Department officials, jointly inspected foreigners’ businesses on Koh Phangan. They discovered an unlicensed international childcare facility in Moo 3, Koh Phangan sub-district, Surat Thani province.

Inside the house, the space was converted into a classroom, complete with tables, chairs, and teaching materials and discovered 70 foreign children aged 3-5 years old. There are three teachers: one Israeli, one South African, and one of British nationality. There was also one Myanmar worker employed as a housekeeper.

So the police ordered a passport and work permit check and worked with the parents of foreign children to take them home.

Pol. Col. Panya Niratimanon, superintendent of Koh Phangan Police Station, confirmed that the nursery had been operational unlawfully for approximately a year. Foreigners living or working on Koh Phangan brought their children to this daycare, which earned an average monthly salary of 1 million baht.

phangan childcare1 — Police officers charged five nationals who work at the childcare.

They arrested and charged five foreign nationals as follows:

1. Ms. Suli, 56, from Israel, was charged with “Establishing or operating a childcare facility for foreigners without permission, working without a work permit, employing foreign workers without work permits, and failing to notify the registrar of employing foreign workers within 15 days of hiring.”

2. Mr. Alon, 50, from Israel, was charged with “Working without a work permit as a foreign national.”

3. Mr. Daniel, 38, from Britain, was charged with “Working without a work permit as a foreign national.”

4. Ms. Louise, 42, from South Africa, was charged with “Working without a work permit as a foreign national and failing to notify the employer, workplace, and nature of work to the registrar within 15 days of starting work.”

5. Ms.Win, 28, from Myanmar, was charged with “Working without a work permit as a foreign national and failing to notify the employer, workplace, and nature of work to the registrar within 15 days of starting work.”

phangan childcare3 — The house was converted into an international childcare facility in Moo 3, Koh Phangan sub-district, Surat Thani province.

Records of the arrest were subsequently made and the individuals were taken into custody along with the evidence for further investigation by the Koh Phangan Police Station. Legal action will be pursued accordingly.

On March 6, immigration authorities discovered another daycare centre with 20 foreign children aged 3-5 years old that was unlawfully operated and employed by illegal foreign tourists and workers in a residence in Moo 3, Tambon Koh Phangan on Koh Phangan.

The daycare’s director, a 40-year-old American, was arrested together with three foreign tourists, one from Ukraine and two from Israel, who were working illegally as caretakers and teachers. Four Burmese migrant workers were also discovered working as housemaids.

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Related coverage:

American Woman Caught Running Unlicensed Daycare on Koh Phangan

Srettha Visit Paves the Way to a Thai-German Strategic Partnership

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Khaosod English

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15 March 2024, 13:08

Srettha German — German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, right, and Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin hold a press conference at the Federal Chancellery in Berlin, Germany, Wednesday March 13, 2024. (Hannes P. Albert/dpa via AP)

BANGKOK – On March 15, the Foreign Ministry published a summary of Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s official visit to the Federal Republic of Germany on March 12–13, 2024, as a guest of the German government.

It is noted that Germany is one of the Prime Minister’s first visit to Europe region that opened new avenues to advance cooperation in areas of mutual interests, based on shared values and principles, as well as to enhance Thailand’s competitiveness through strategic cooperation with a key partner country.

AP24073626905607 — German Chancellor Olaf Schol, right, welcomes Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin in front of the Chancellery in Berlin, Germany, Wednesday March 13, 2024. (Hannes P. Albert/dpa via AP)

On this occasion, Mr. Jakkapong Sangmanee, Deputy Foreign Minister, also attended the program. The visit, which closely followed the recent official visit of Dr. Frank-Walter Steinmeier, President of the Federal Republic of Germany, to the Kingdom of Thailand in January, reaffirmed Germany’s confidence in Thailand’s post-election political stability as well as economic potential that are crucial for the investment from German businesses.

On March 13, Prime Minister Srettha had a bilateral meeting with Mr. Olaf Scholz, Chancellor of the Federal Republic of Germany. The Prime Minister and the Chancellor agreed that both sides, through the Joint Economic Commission (JEC) and the bilateral Political Consultations, will further discuss the Joint Roadmap in order to elevate the Thai-German partnership to a strategic level.

Srettha Germany — German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, right, and Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin shake hands during a press conference at the Federal Chancellery in Berlin, Germany, Wednesday March 13, 2024. (Hannes P. Albert/dpa via AP)

The two leaders also discussed ways to enhance cooperation based on mutual interests such as cooperation on political and economic areas, especially exchange of high-level visits, cooperation on clean energy and green transition, EVs and battery industry in order to enhance Thailand’s potential as EVs production hub.

There is also a topic of transfer of knowledge and technology on sustainable agriculture, development of infrastructure and connectivities through Thailand’s Landbridge project, people-to-people relations, human resource and vocational education, support for the Thai – EU FTA negotiations and on the negotiation of the Schengen visa exemption for Thai ordinary passport holders, as well as cooperation on regional and global issues such as climate change and global security.

Also, on March 13, Prime Minister Srettha delivered a keynote speech at the Annual Reception of the German Association for Small and Medium-Sized Businesses (BVMW) under the theme “Future Day for SMEs”.

Prime Minister shared his “Ignite Thailand” vision to respond to current global challenges, climate change and geopolitics, as well as reassured the German business sector that they have vast potential to further advance trade and investment cooperation with Thailand.

On this occasion, Prime Minister Srettha invited BVMW to set up its regional office in Thailand to promote and facilitate German SMEs’ investment in Thailand and the region.

Prime Minister Srettha met one-on-one with leading German companies, aiming to attract more German investments in Thailand. The business representatives are from (1) automobile sector, namely Volkswagen (Germany’s largest automobile company), BMW, and Mercedes Benz (premium automobile brands); (2) heavy industry’s parts producer, namely Schaeffler; (3) producers of automobile parts, namely Fritz Draexlmaier and Mahle; and (4) semi-conductor producer, namely Infineon.

Outcome of the official visit to Germany
- Both leaders agreed to the Roadmap to elevate relations to a strategic partnership.
- Both sides discussed ways to enhance cooperation based on mutual interests, especially on the exchanges of high-level visits, cooperation on clean energy and green transition, the EV and battery industries, sustainable agriculture, development of infrastructure and connectivity through Thailand’s Landbridge project, Thai – EU FTA negotiations and Schengen visa exemption for ordinary Thai passport holders, as well as cooperation on regional and global issues, including climate change and global security.
- The Prime Minister also met with leading German companies to attract more German investments to Thailand, especially in the automotive and semiconductor sectors.

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US Commerce Secretary Hails Progress at Year’s First Meeting of Indo-Pacific Trade Grouping

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Associated Press

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15 March 2024, 08:42

GRANT PECK, BANGKOK — U.S. Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo on Thursday praised the progress made by the 14 countries in the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity after the group held a ministerial meeting Thursday to discuss proposed guidelines for regional commerce.

Raimondo was in the Thai capital Bangkok to take part in the virtual meeting, the year’s first for the grouping. She is on an Asia tour that also took her to the Philippines this week with a private sector delegation to promote trade, investment and the diversification of global supply chains, especially for semiconductors.

Washington launched the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework, or IPEF, in May 2022 to establish a zone of economic cooperation in a region that is estimated to account for 40% of global GDP.

Its members are Australia, Brunei, Fiji, India, Indonesia, Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, New Zealand, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, the United States, and Vietnam.

The group is supposed to uphold four pillars: trade, supply chains, clean economy and fair economy. The goal is to advance resilience, sustainability, inclusiveness, economic growth, fairness and competitiveness for those economies involved, according to the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative.

Raimondo commended progress on documents setting guidelines for the latter three pillars — supply chain, clean economy and fair economy, according to a statement issued by the U.S. Commerce Department.

But the statement notably made no mention of the first pillar, trade, which has not been substantially addressed by the group.

AP24074263654414 — Thai Foreign Minister Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara, left, talks with U.S. Secretary of Commerce, Gina Raimondo, second right, at Foreign Ministry in Bangkok, Thailand, Thursday, March 14, 2024. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit)

Open market access would benefit most Asian members, but could be politically unfeasible for U.S. President Joe Biden, who must rely heavily on support from voters in swing states where industries would likely suffer from expanded free trade policies.

For their part, many Asian members see little benefit in implementing tighter labor and environmental standards that could effect their export prospects.

The supply chain challenges to be addressed by the group include shortages of essential products caused by crises, such as the coronavirus pandemic and the war in Ukraine. Clean economy measures promote effort on climate action, such as net-zero emissions and sustainable growth. Fair economy measures aim “to create a more transparent, predictable trade and investment environment” by combating corruption and enforcing labor laws, among other actions.

Raimondo sounded optimistic despite the lack of movement on the trade pillar.

“I continue to be amazed by the energy and collaborative spirit that each of our IPEF partners brings to the table and by how much we have accomplished together in such a short amount time. This framework did not exist less than two years ago,” she said, according to the Commerce Department statement.

“It’s clear that the next phase of IPEF will continue to deliver concrete results for each of our economies,” she said.

The group’s next top-level meeting is scheduled to see the ministers involved meet in person in Singapore on June 6.

Varawut Unveils Plans To Address the Thai Population Crisis

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Khaosod English

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14 March 2024, 23:10

waravuth2 — Varawut Silpa-archa, Minister of Social Development and Human Security held a press conference on March 8, 2024, to declare measures to solve the crisis of the Thai population at the MSDHS, Saphan Khao, Bangkok.

BANGKOK – The Ministry of Social Development and Human Security (MSDHS) in collaboration with the Institute for Population and Social Research, Chulalongkorn University, Chula Art Project, and the World Bank conducted a workshop that resulted in the white paper “Family Stability on Top, Stop Demographic Crises.”

Varawut Silpa-archa, Minister of Social Development and Human Security stated that the MSDHS will submit the white paper which contains key solutions to sort out the demographic crises derived from the discussions of executives and representatives from public and private sectors, international organizations, experts, academia, and the media through the World Café conversational session.

Significant and urgent measures to strengthen Thai family institutions regarding five subgroup discussions are

1) Working-age populations – aim at empowering people of working age to stand their ground, take care of their own families, and be ready to be aged gracefully. This should be implemented through measures on skill and potential development (reskill/upskill), creation of job opportunities in communities, promotion of compulsory savings, and support for a healthy work-life balance through providing day-time nursery, child care, and elderly care service or center, offering parental leaves, flexible work arrangements, and promoting equal sharing of domestic and care responsibilities in a family etc.

waravuth1 — Varawut Silpa-archa, Minister of Social Development and Human Security held a press conference on March 8, 2024, to declare measures to solve the crisis of the Thai population at the MSDHS, Saphan Khao, Bangkok.

2) Children and youth – aim to improve the quality and productivity of children and youth guided by the goal “fewer children, overfill quality”. Urgent measures in response to this are strengthening family institutions and educational institutions; taking care of the physical and mental health of children and mothers since pregnancy; establishing an early-childhood care center with support from the community; developing life- and professional skills according to age; and promoting the use of technology and innovation for lifelong learning.

3) The elderly – Focus on turning population ageing into an opportunity by empowering older persons to be active citizens. This could be done by measures on ‘health prevention better than cure’, providing employment opportunities, extending the retirement age, building necessary digital literacy among the older population, and creating an ageing-friendly infrastructure and environment in daily life.

4) Persons with Disabilities – aim to create opportunities for and raise awareness of the rights of persons with disabilities (PwDs). Significant and immediate actions must be implemented, such as expanding educational opportunities, increasing employment of PwDs in all sectors; empowering individuals with disabilities; providing them with full, equitable, and fair access to services and benefits; preventing birth defects and disabilities in all age groups; improving rehabilitation; and fostering a universal-design environment that encourages independent living

waravuth3 — Varawut Silpa-archa, Minister of Social Development and Human Security held a press conference on March 8, 2024, to declare measures to solve the crisis of the Thai population at the MSDHS, Saphan Khao, Bangkok.

5) Ecosystem for family stability – aim at creating an appropriate environment for family stability through significant and immediate actions, such as providing family support services and an inclusive and appropriate welfare system; creating a livable community for all; housing for all; promoting the household economy; and replenishing the natural world by encouraging the Green Economy and ceasing to damage the environment.

The minister concluded that the white paper called “Developing Thai Family Security to Strengthen Human Security” prepared by the MSDHS will be presented to the cabinet for approval by April 2567 (2024).

It will further be announced at the 57th Session of the Commission on Population and Development (CPD57) at the United Nations Headquarters in New York City, USA, from April 29 to May 3, 2567 (2024).

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Nara Group Expands Food Delivery with Grab; Aims for 23% Growth

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Contributor

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14 March 2024, 20:03

BANGKOK – Nara Group, a renowned premium restaurant group in Thailand, celebrates its 20th anniversary by partnering with GrabFood, Thailand’s No.1 food delivery platform, to enter the food delivery market for the first time.

The collaboration aims to expand a broader customer base, particularly appealing to the digitally inclined younger generation through promotional campaigns and discounts, as well as expatriates and international travelers with a fondness for Thai cuisine. The group anticipates a significant 23% growth in revenue, with a targeted increase in online channel sales contribution by 10-15% within this year.

Yumi Kiengsiri, Chief Marketing Officer of Nara Group, stated, “Following the tremendous success of our flagship brand, ‘Nara Thai Cuisine,’ consistently awarded the Thai Select certification by the Ministry of Commerce for over 5 years and the Michelin Guide recognition for our Erawan branch since 2018, we are committed to bringing premium-quality Thai cuisine to an even larger audience, especially the younger generation.

Our strategy involves expanding our presence in the delivery market, capitalizing on the success of brands within our portfolio, such as CO LIMITED, a Thai street food restaurant with bold flavors, and Ang Morr, our new modern-style Chinese restaurant. Through collaboration with GrabFood, a dominant player in Thailand’s food delivery, we aim to capture the hearts of young consumers.

This partnership is poised to increase our sales revenue by 23%, equivalent to approximately THB 50 – 80 million, and elevate the online sales contribution from a mere 2% to a targeted 10-15%.”

“In commemoration of our group’s 20th anniversary, we are expanding our business this year with a heightened focus on online channels and food delivery platforms. Our goal is to make premium Thai cuisine more accessible to a broader audience, including young generations, working professionals, and international travelers. We aim to provide them with a convenient way to savor the delightful flavors of Nara Group’s restaurants at their fingertips,” added Yumi.

Chantsuda Thananitayaudom, Senior Director – Commercial and Marketing at Grab Thailand, stated, “This strategic collaboration between GrabFood and Nara Group underscores our commitment to offering our users delectable and high-quality food choices. Nara Group brings together its well-established brands like Nara Thai Cuisine, CO LIMITED, and the newly introduced Ang Morr, with their delightful flavors guaranteed by our #GrabThumbsUp, on our platform.

Beyond targeting the younger generation, both brands will play a vital role in promoting Thai cuisine among expatriates and foreign tourists. This initiative mirrors the Thai government’s push to promote ‘Soft Power’ through Thai cuisine and truly represents a synergistic partnership that leverages the strengths of both parties.”

To celebrate the partnership, Nara Group and Grab are launching limited-time promotions starting on March 15th onwards. This includes providing a free 185ml can of Coca-Cola with food orders from Nara Group’s restaurants via GrabFood (limited to 10,000 cans in total).

Additionally, customers can enjoy a 20% discount (up to 80 Baht) by entering the code “THUMBSUP” when ordering food from all Nara Group restaurants on GrabFood.

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Two Accidents Caused by Drowsy Drivers Leave Foreign Visitors Injured

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Khaosod English

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14 March 2024, 18:08

CHACHOEUNGSAO – There have been two incidents involving drivers falling asleep at the wheel and causing accidents resulting in injuries to foreign tourists on March 13, 2024.

The first incident occurred on highway 41 towards Bangkok at kilometer 10 in Bang Wua sub-district, Bang Pakong district, Chachoengsao province. A Toyota Fortuner SUV with Bangkok license plates collided with the rear of a 10-wheeler truck, causing severe damage to the front of the SUV.

Two Danish tourists, Mr. Peter, 46 years old, and Ms. Sandra, 25 years old, suffered injuries. They received medical treatment at the scene of the accident before being taken to Chularat 11 Hospital.

denmark chachaeng — Two Danish tourists suffered injuries.

denmark chachaeng2 — A Toyota Fortuner SUV with Bangkok license plates collided with the rear of a 10-wheeler truck, causing severe damage to the front of the SUV.

Mr. Rittichai Arya, 34 years old, the driver, admitted to falling asleep while driving the tourists to Suvarnabhumi Airport, leading to the collision with the truck. On March 14, the two visitors are still unable to return to their country while recovering.

In another incident, police in Bang Pakong district, Chachoengsao province, were called at 13:00 to an accident on the expressway at kilometer 45+900 towards Chonburi, in Bang Pakong sub-district. When they arrived, they found a blue Scania bus with Bangkok license plate 32-3241 parked in the middle lane and badly damaged.

The driver, Mr. Nawapol Dokphrom, 34 years old, was injured, as were 29 Chinese tourists. The emergency services provided first medical aid before taking the 30 injured to Chularat 11 Hospital (18 patients) and Bang Pakong Hospital (12 patients).

chinese cha — The driver, Mr. Nawapol Dokphrom, 34 years old, was injured, as were 29 Chinese tourists.

Nearby, a trailer truck with 22 wheels was also rear-ended on the right side, causing significant damage. Mr. Nawapol, the bus driver, confessed to falling asleep while driving the Chinese tourists to Pattaya, resulting in the collision with the trailer truck in the left lane.

According to the Ministry of Transport, there are an average of around 40 road deaths per day in Thailand, and many more suffer minor to serious injuries. According to the Road Safety Master Plan 2022-2033, the target is to reduce the number of road deaths to 12 per 100,000 population by 2033, in line with the goals of the UN Decade of Action for Road Safety.

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