The PARQ Celebrates Chinese New Year 2024 with the ‘ENDLESS WEALTH’

By

-

8 February 2024, 15:01

The PARQ Celebrates Chinese New Year 2024 with the ‘ENDLESS WEALTH’ concept and welcoming the Auspicious Year of the Dragon

Bangkok – The PARQ is set to welcome the Year of the Dragon through the Chinese NEW YEAR 2024 campaign with a range of activities designed to enhance well-being and prosperity in both mind and body, offering a complete experience of shopping, dining, leisure, and fortune-boosting under the concept “Endless Wealth”, reflects the abundance and richness that symbolize the beginning of the new year, as majestic as the dragon itself, reinforcing The PARQ’s position as the epicenter of a Life Well Balanced in the heart of the city.

To empower individuals throughout the year, The PARQ is hosting a Special Talk featuring the renowned astrologer ToktakA4, sharing insights into career paths, investment directions, money-making tips, and astrological secrets for each zodiac sign. Revealing the top four zodiac signs that are predicted to flourish in the Year 2024, ToktakA4 highlights the ‘Year of the Pig’ as the standout performer, particularly in financial and career aspects.

Following the ‘Year of the Tiger’ brings strength not only in personal influence but also in successful negotiations, especially with international connections.

Another outstanding zodiac sign for this year is the ‘Year of the Monkey’, guaranteeing support and opportunities from patrons. The ‘Year of the Snake’ invites individuals to prepare for advancement and growth in their positions.

Expect Business endeavors to flourish and be successful, and professional reputations will be further enhanced. The direction for investments and wealth creation is promising in the Golden Dragon Year including real estate, rental spaces, houses, and hotels are particularly intriguing businesses for consumers, or businesses catering to the tourism sector. And the auspicious colors for this year—red, gold, and black—will amplify commercial success.

“It is not merely about your zodiac sign; it is about cultivating positive thoughts and deeds. A kind heart is a blessing, and the Chinese New Year is an opportune time to believe in receiving positive outcomes. As we celebrate this festive occasion, I wish everyone a prosperous and joyous year ahead.” ToktakA4, the astrologer, emphasizes this sentiment.

Moreover, there are exciting activities to take part in with our honored astrologer, ToktakA4, offering personalized astrological consultations to five fortunate individuals and a chance for another five to be selected as recipients of auspicious blessings Vessavana. Only those who register and join the event on Thursday, February 1st, 2024, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM.

To elevate the festive experience, visitors can indulge in auspicious products, delectable food, refreshing beverages, and trendy lifestyle items available at marketplace. Spend a minimum of 500 Baht at any shops and restaurants in The PARQ Life from February 1st to February 9th, 2024, between 12:00 PM and 6:00 PM, to join a free astrological reading session.

Begin the new year with a selection of traditional Thai Chinese dishes offered at The PARQ’s leading restaurants:

Sanyod WOK: Indulge in a range of traditional Chinese dishes, such as fried Hokkien Rice Noodles with Roasted Duck, Stir-Fried Noodles with Shrimp Paste, Shrimp Wonton, and the auspicious Boiled Rice with Fish,

Kope Hya Tai Kee: Experience the rich flavors of this time-honored coffee shop, open for 68 years, featuring special Chinese New Year dishes like Baked Pork Rib with Rice, Chinese Steamed Rice Noodle Rolls, Green Curry Chicken with roti and Chinese Salted Black Olive Fried Rice.

Cheat Day by Modish: Enjoy trendy and healthier dishes at this all-day dining restaurant, offering two special Chinese New Year dishes – Sea Bass with Vegetables and Taiwanese Dumplings – designed to bring luck and prosperity.

MX Cakes & Bakery: Savor the legendary flavors of this Hong Kong-based bakery, established since 1960, with traditional delicacies such as Mx Original Egg Rolls, available at a special 20% discount when ordered online during the Chinese New Year 2024 celebrations.

Chongjaroen OSOD: The Lost Chinatown restaurant blends Thai-Chinese fusion cuisine with a touch of bar ambience, presenting special menus tailored for the festive season. Indulge in Vietnamese-style Pizza, Fried Lotus Roots, Pumpkin Fritters with Salted Egg Yolk, Eggplant French Fries, and Vietnamese-style Fried Spring Rolls.

The Coffee Club: A renowned all-day dining coffeehouse originating from Australia. Join us in commemorating this joyous festival with our exquisite Rice Sets, offering a variety of 3 side dishes to complement your choices, such as Stir-Fried Water Spinach, Stir-Fried Chinese Salted Black Olives, and our signature Spicy Salted Egg Yolk Salad. Alternatively, indulge in the richness of uniquely crafted Pork Congee, in The Coffee Club style.

To celebrate Chinese New Year with full of happiness, prosperity, and richness through our “ENDLESS WEALTH“, there is a selection of auspicious dishes, both savory and sweet, for you to savor. Accompanied by exclusive promotions from shops, restaurants and services. Join us in the CHINESE NEW YEAR 2024 celebration at The PARQ Life (MRT Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre, Exit 2) from February 1st to 9th, 2024.

For updates and more information on ‘Chinese New Year 2024,’ please visit

Facebook: The PARQ Instagram: @THEPARQBKK Website: www.theparq.com Tel. 02-080-5700
#CHINESENEWYEAR2024 #ThePARQ #LifeWellBalanced

For more information, please contact

Frasers Property Thailand

Kanokpong Amnart

Phone: 0-86979-1916

Email: [email protected]

Branded The Agency Sutadta Lertsanongboon Anchalee Chuakhamhod
Phone: 0-82941-6141 Phone: 0-99735-9614
Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]

Prince Harry’s Visit To See King Charles III Didn’t Bring Reconciliation With William

By

Associated Press

-

8 February 2024, 14:48

LONDON (AP) — Prince Harry flew more than 5,000 miles (8,000 kilometers) to see his father after King Charles III was diagnosed with cancer. But Harry did not see his estranged brother, William, during a visit that lasted scarcely 24 hours.

The royal brothers remain emotionally and physically an ocean apart.

British media published photos of Harry at Heathrow Airport on Wednesday afternoon, just a day after he arrived at the same airport on a flight from Los Angeles.

He appeared headed back to life in California after a U.K. visit in which he spent less than an hour with his father at Clarence House, the king’s London home. Any meeting between the brothers would typically be confirmed by palace officials.

AP24037537743894 — A convoy of cars believed to be carrying Prince Harry arrive at Clarence House following the announcement of King Charles III’s cancer diagnosis, in London, Tuesday, Feb. 6, 2024. (AP Photo/Kin Cheung)

William, meanwhile, returned to public duties for the first time since his wife, Kate, was admitted to a London hospital on Jan. 16 for abdominal surgery. She spent almost two weeks at the private London Clinic and is recovering at home. William handed out medals to notables and local heroes at a Windsor Castle ceremony in the morning and was due to attend a charity dinner on Wednesday evening for London’s air ambulance service.

Images from the day are more grist for the popular British media tropes: dutiful William, flyaway Harry.

Behind that simplistic summary are two royal brothers — bonded in bereavement by the death of their mother, Princess Diana, when William was 15 and Harry was 12 — whose paths have diverged dramatically.

While William, the heir, was destined from birth to be king, Harry, who is fifth in line to the throne behind his brother and William’s three children, has often appeared to struggle with the more ambiguous role of “spare.”

He chose “Spare” as the title of his 2023 memoir, which recounted a lifetime of sibling grievances — from William getting the bigger bedroom at Balmoral Castle to a ferocious argument in which Harry claims William ripped his necklace and knocked him down onto a dog bowl.

AP24037691689815 — FILE – Britain’s Prince Harry, left, and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, arrive for a visit at the town hall in Duesseldorf, Germany on Sept. 6, 2022. (AP Photo/Martin Meissner, File)

In the book, Harry alleged that the British media treated him and his wife, Meghan — also known as the Duke and Duchess of Sussex — as villains compared with virtuous William and Kate, and accused palace officials of lying to protect his elder brother.

The Sussexes cited the media’s racist treatment of Meghan, who is biracial, and a lack of support from the palace as reasons for their decision in 2020 to quit royal duties and move to the U.S.

In an explosive interview with Oprah Winfrey in 2021, the couple portrayed the royal family as indifferent to Meghan’s mental health struggles, and suggested an unnamed family member had made a racist comment to Harry before the birth of their son, Archie. Harry described his relationship with William as “space at the moment.”

The brothers’ interactions since then have been formal, and brief. They were seen temporarily putting their fraught relationship aside to attend the funeral of their grandfather Prince Philip at Windsor Castle in 2021. The pair did not walk side-by-side behind Philip’s coffin, but were pictured chatting and walking together after the service.

In September 2022 the brothers walked side-by-side behind the coffin of their grandmother Queen Elizabeth II before she lay in state. William later said it had evoked memories of doing the same at Princess Diana’s funeral in 1997.

AP23118618212502 — FILE – King Charles III and other members of Royal family follow the coffin of Queen Elizabeth II, during a procession from Buckingham Palace to Westminster Hall in London, Wednesday, Sept. 14, 2022. (AP Photo/Markus Schreiber, File)

Harry traveled to the U.K. for his father’s coronation ceremony at Westminster Abbey in May. He was assigned to sit two rows behind his brother, arrived at the abbey alone and left alone. The brothers were not seen speaking or even acknowledging each other.

Harry’s campaign to tame Britain’s tabloid press has also placed him at odds with his relatives. He broke from the royal family tradition of not engaging in litigation by filing several lawsuits against the news media for hacking his phone and other privacy violations.

Harry claimed in court filings that Charles had directed palace staff to order him to drop his litigation because it was bad for the family. He also said William had secretly settled his own hacking claims against Rupert Murdoch’s publications for a “huge sum of money” in 2020.

In “Spare,” Harry claims that their father implored them after Philip’s funeral: “Please, boys — don’t make my final years a misery.”

Royal biographer Sally Bedell Smith said rifts within the royal family would take more than a single visit to heal.

“I don’t think we should engage in too much magical thinking about this,” said Bedell Smith, author of “Prince Charles: Passions and Paradoxes of an Improbable Life.”

“There are some very, very deep, hurts (Harry) has inflicted on the family,” she said. But, she added: “King Charles, by nature, he wants to heal not only the world, but I think his impulse would be to try and heal the family.”

___

Prince Harry Arrives in London After His Father, King Charles III, Is Diagnosed With Cancer

TRUMPF Celebrates 100 Years Unveiling the First Customer Center in Thailand

By

Contributor

-

8 February 2024, 14:28

“TRUMPF” Celebrates 100 Years, Pioneering Technological Advancements into the Future: Unveiling the First Customer Center in Thailand and Introducing a 24kW Laser Cutting Machine

Bangkok, February 2, 2024 – TRUMPF, the innovative leader offering high-tech solutions for metal sheet processing machinery, laser technology, and electronics from Germany, celebrates its 100th anniversary and takes a forward step in driving technology towards the future. The company unveiled groundbreaking innovations – a 24kW Laser Cutting Machine and inaugurated a Customer Center, the hub for TRUMPF’s machinery and technology in Southeast Asia.

Mr. Philip Meyer, Head of Country Management Asia & JFY International, emphasized the continuous growth in Thailand’s metalworking industry. With a focus on efficient machinery and technology development to support manufacturing, TRUMPF stands proud as an innovative leader offering advanced solutions for metal sheet processing machinery, laser technology, electronics, and Industry 4.0.

The company takes pride in being at the forefront of innovations that propel technology into the future, contributing to the global industrial landscape, particularly in Thailand. Emerging technologies like AI, quantum technology, human-connected technology, and sustainable smart factory solutions play a pivotal role in driving industries worldwide, including Thailand.

On the occasion of TRUMPF’s 100th anniversary, the company reiterates its commitment to developing technologies and solutions that meet the current and future needs of customers. TRUMPF is dedicated to upholding its values and adhering to the highest standards, ensuring long-term success for the organization. The company positions itself as a driving force behind innovations, collaborating with technologies that shape the future of industries.

Looking ahead, TRUMPF aims to promote technology that supports industries in adapting to diversified product lines and meeting consumer demands. The “You Win” campaign concept emphasizes that your success is our success. In 2023, TRUMPF achieved historic global revenues exceeding 5 billion euros and over 400 million baht in Thailand, showcasing its sustained growth.

Mr. Decha Lertvilaisak, General Manager TRUMPF Thailand & Philippines, revealed the establishment of the first Customer Center in Southeast Asia, located in Thailand, recognizing its potential as a vital hub for machinery and technology in the region. Spanning 700 square meters, the center exhibits machinery innovations catering to diverse customer needs, including metal sheet cutting, bending, drilling, welding machines, and Smart Factory solutions.

TRUMPF introduces New Entry Level Machines tailored for medium-sized businesses looking to incorporate advanced technology into their industries.

Mr. Decha highlighted the latest innovation, the 24kW Laser cutting machine, as a remarkable advancement in laser technology. This machine, boasting three times the efficiency and speed compared to a 6kW laser, is suitable for efficiently cutting metals with a maximum thickness of 50mm. The 24kW Laser promises high-performance, rapid, precise, and convenient metal cutting.

“With the introduction of the 24kW Laser cutting machine and the establishment of the Customer Center in Thailand, TRUMPF is confident in receiving positive responses from the industry. We anticipate substantial sales for the 24kW Laser technology and the New Entry Level Machines group in Thailand,” stated Mr. Decha.

King Power Chinese New Year 2024 Celebrates the ‘Kingdom of Dragons’

By

Contributor

-

8 February 2024, 14:14

King Power marks the beginning of the new year with festivities heralding a fresh start. The travel-retail giant unveils a spectacle commemorating the grandeur of the Chinese New Year, ushering in the auspicious Year of the Dragon, and bringing everyone into a joyous celebration of new beginnings through the event:

“King Power Chinese New Year 2024. Power Your Luck, Power Your Life.”

Embarking on a journey towards good fortunes as part of the celebration for the Year of the Dragon through the ‘Kingdom of Dragons’ concept centered around the theme of ‘Luck, Health, Wealth, Love.’ Embrace the potent energy of the dragon that radiates only positive vibes of good fortune, prosperity, happiness, auspiciousness, and fulfillment for both Thai and international visitors.

This event serves as a unifying platform for everyone to gather together to take delight in delectable feasts, seek blessings, enhance personal fortunes, and revel in live concerts featuring renowned artists, along with selected special promotions.

The press conference and opening ceremony took place on 6-February 2024, at 5:00 p.m., right at Fountain Square within King Power Rangnam. Attendees were treated to an extraordinary experience as they witnessed the first grand dragon dance procession along Rangnam Road.

The event was graced by the presence of Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt, who presided over the opening ceremony. Joining him in this occasion was Thapanee Kiatphaibool, the Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT).

Aiyawatt Srivaddhanaprabha, Chief Executive Officer of King Power, stated, “This year’s Chinese New Year celebration event marks our glorious return to hosting a grand celebration. It further solidifies King Power’s role as a vital destination, extending a warm welcome to customers and tourists, both Thai and international. Our vision is to collaboratively promote Thai tourism and transform the Rangnam area into a new tourist destination within Bangkok.

Therefore, King Power seized the opportunity to commemorate the Chinese New Year Festival, with the aim of inspiring both Thai and foreign tourists to immerse themselves in the Thai-Chinese culture and traditions while savoring the delectable offerings of Thai cuisine. This initiative is geared towards establishing a new travel destination, ensuring Thailand remains ‘top of mind’ for tourists from around the world.

The activity we witness today represents just the beginning of King Power’s efforts to foster growth in the Rangnam area, with ongoing plans to foster community development and bolster tourism for Bangkok in the years ahead.”

The 18-day event kicked off with a series of activities dedicated to worshipping the gods, witness the grandeur of five dragon parades, elegantly striding along the entire Rangnam Road. Leading the procession will be admired artists, including PP-Krit Amnuaydechkorn, Win-Metawin Opas-iamkajorn, JJ-Kritsanapoom Pibulsonggram,Daneng-Kanyawee Songmuang, Daou-Pittaya Saechua, and Offroad-Kantapon Jindataweephol.

On 10 February 2024, be captivated by the show led by Yin-Anan Wong, accompanied by a special performance by Chamook-Suchanan Mahaphromwan. On 11 February 2024, immerse in the excitement with Nont-Tanont Chumroen and indulge in the most spectacular live shows, featuring musical performances and a myriad of captivating acts from China.

During the event, everyone will have the opportunity to savor “Auspicious Cuisine from over 50 Renowned Restaurants.” Discover delectable dishes from more than 50 legendary and Michelin Guide-endorsed eateries, including Tang Jai Yoo Restaurant, Tang Jai Yang Michelin Red Pork, Cross BKK, Mott32, Khao Kha Moo Trok Sung, Chaffeine Bubble Milk Tea, Gui Chai Saphan Han, Hong Tae Crispy Fried Chive Pancake, Charm Noodle, Ba Bin Gusto, and many more. from 1-18 February, 2024

Throughout the event, King Power remains committed to spreading happiness and offers everyone a chance to win through the “Shop & Prosper: Get Lucky & Wealthy” promotion. This promotion is designed to bring threefold of good fortunes, promising a wealth of endless happiness to all participants. Lucky 1 grants 2 red discount envelopes worth a total of 8,000 Baht.

Lucky 2 provides a chance to explore the mystical land of dragons, including the World Heritage City of Lijiang and Shangri-La, with the added adventure of conquering the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. Shoppers receive a coupon for immediate prize potential with every 8,000 Baht spent. Lucky 3 offers the possibility of winning a 1-Baht golden dragon through the Dragon Hunter collection activity.

There’s an exclusive deal for the newly enrolled King Power SCARLET members. Upon signing up, you’ll receive a complimentary salung of gold when you make a purchase of 80,000 Baht on the same day.

Suvarnabhumi Immigration Braces For Chinese New Year Travel Rush

By

Khaosod English

-

8 February 2024, 09:00

Immigration officials inspect the immigration checkpoint at Suvarnabhumi Airport on Feb. 6, 2024.

BANGKOK — The Immigration Bureau on Tuesday said they are ready to handle a large influx of visitors during the Chinese New Year holidays.

Up to 150,000 visitors are expected to arrive at Suvarnabhumi Airport each day to celebrate the Year of the Dragon, according to a forecast by the bureau. Pol. Maj. Gen. Choengron Rimphadee, commander of Immigration Division 2, which oversees airport border controls, said his unit has implemented several measures to handle the increased flow of passengers at Bangkok’s main international airport.

Sixty additional immigration officers were mobilized from other units to man the counters and the existing officers were instructed not to take leave, Choengron said.

Technicians would also be on standby for an event of system failure, which happened last month when the biometric system that validates passenger’s identification and the automatic gates at Suvarnabhumi Airport failed for more than nine hours, causing chaos for travelers as long queues built up at the border control.

The glitch meant passengers had to have their passport checked manually rather than by computers, which took up to more than one minute per person for the process that normally took 45 seconds.

The event prompted PM Srettha Thavisin to make an unannounced visit to the airport on Monday, where he told officials that passengers should not take more than 30 minutes to go through the immigration. He also instructed the bureau to improve its IT systems and recruit more officers to speed up the process.

“I want to provide convenience to visitors since they get off the plane,” Srettha said. “They should have the opportunity to spend their time sightseeing and spending money instead of wasting their time at the airport.”

Long lines at Bangkok’s airports are common, evidenced by photos of overflowing arrival halls and accounts of passengers waiting for hours to have their passport stamped.

In December, a video showing travelers queuing up in droves at Suvarnabhumi Airport’s arrival hall went viral, which the Immigration Bureau later said that it was due to the unusual flow of passengers which happened to arrive at the same time, compounded with flight delay issues on that day.

Qatar Advances To the Asian Cup Final By Beating Iran 3-2

By

Associated Press

-

8 February 2024, 00:39

DOHA, Qatar (AP) — Almoez Ali fired Qatar into the Asian Cup final with a 3-2 win over Iran on Wednesday.

The forward struck the decisive goal in the 82nd minute at Al Thumama Stadium to settle a thrilling semifinal.

Host and defending champion Qatar will play Jordan in Saturday’s final at Lusail Stadium, where Lionel Messi lifted the World Cup for Argentina in 2022.

Ali was the leading scorer when Qatar won the Asian Cup in 2019 but has been overshadowed by strike-partner Akram Afif this time around.

AP24038627742807 — Qatar supporters celebrate at full time of the Asian Cup semifinal soccer match between Iran and Qatar at Al Thumama Stadium in Doha, Qatar, Wednesday, Feb. 7, 2024. Qatar won 3-2. (AP Photo/Aijaz Rahi)

Ali came up with a crucial finish to preserve his country’s hopes for back-to-back titles after a game that saw both teams give up winning positions.

Sardar Azmoun fired Iran into the lead with an overhead kick in the fourth minute. Qatar responded with a deflected equalizer from Jassem Gaber in the 17th and Afif scored his fifth goal of the tournament with a brilliant individual effort in the 43rd — cutting into the box and lashing a shot beyond Iran goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand.

Iran leveled the game again six minutes into the second half from the penalty spot as Alireza Jahanbakhsh converted after a handball from Ahmed Fathy.

AP24038595822390 — Iran’s Ramin Rezaeiansemeskandi, left, tries to score past the Qatar defense during the Asian Cup semifinal soccer match between Qatar and Iran at Al Thumama Stadium in Doha, Qatar, Wednesday, Feb. 7, 2024. (AP Photo/Thanassis Stavrakis)

But Ali, who scored nine goals in the 2019 tournament, grabbed his second of this campaign when he fired low from inside the box late on.

Iran was reduced to 10 men when Shoja Khalilzadeh was sent off for a foul on Afif, but Jahanbakhsh still came close to forcing extra time by hitting the post in the 14th minute of stoppage time.

AP24038613181980 — Iran’s Mehdi Taremi, centre, argues with the referee after he showed a red card to Iran’s Shojae Khalilzadeh, not seen, during the Asian Cup semifinal soccer match between Iran and Qatar at Al Thumama Stadium in Doha, Qatar, Wednesday, Feb. 7, 2024. (AP Photo/Aijaz Rahi)

Qatar keeper Meshaal Barsham also had to produce a last-gasp save to deny Reza Asadi before the final whistle blew.

“Today was one of the worst days I’ve had in my life,” Iran coach Amir Ghalenoei said. “Our second-half performance was one of the best performances we’ve had. We missed a lot of opportunities.

“This is football. When you don’t get what you want from your chances you are going to be punished and this is what happened today.”

____

Kerry Express Thailand Taken Over by Chinese S.F. Holding

By

Khaosod English

-

7 February 2024, 23:46

BANGKOK – Kerry Express (Thailand) Public Company Limited (KEX) is the most recent big Thai logistics business bought by a Chinese company. However, this will allow the Kerry company to continue operating under a parent corporation that has strong transportation capabilities in all “land, sea and air” modes” in the Asia-Pacific region and an e-commerce network.

KEX informed the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET) on February 6 that SF International Holding (Thailand) Co., Ltd. (“SFTH”) performed a tender offer for all securities of the company.

S.F. International Holding (Thailand) is a subsidiary of S.F. Holding Co., Ltd., a company listed on the Shenzhen Stock Exchange. It announced a tender offer to acquire 73.18 percent of KEX’s outstanding shares.

The performance of Kerry Express (Thailand) Public Company Limited, the latest 9-month report of 2023 shows a total revenue of 8.99 billion baht but a net loss of 2.72 billion baht. In 2022, the company had a total revenue of 17.14 billion baht and a net loss of 2.82 billion baht.

According to CredenData, Kerry Express (Thailand) Public Company Limited had a turnover of 19 billion baht and a net profit of 1.33 billion baht in 2020. However, in 2021, revenue was 19.2 billion baht and net profit was only 31 million baht, representing a significant drop in profit.

In 2022, total revenue amounted to 17.16 billion baht, with an operating loss of 4 billion baht. The net loss amounted to 3.08 billion baht.

The performance of Kerry Express (Thailand) Public Company Limited in the latest 9-month report of 2023

According to Prachachat Business, Kerry’s situation is similar to that of other logistics companies such as Flash Express, Ninja Van and Thailand Post, whose logistics performance is still hanging in the balance. This is in stark contrast to logistics companies with their own e-commerce platform ecosystem, which have started to make steady profits after the end of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Lazada Express, for example, has turned from a loss of 200 million in 2021 to a profit of 2.7 billion baht in 2022 and ended 2023 with a profit of 2.9 billion baht. Shopee’s SPX Express (SPX Express (Thailand) Company Limited) went from a loss of 289 million baht in 2021 to a profit of 932 million baht in 2022.

It is therefore interesting to see what changes the takeover of Kerry by S.F. Holding will bring logistics competition in Thailand. Almost all logistics companies in Thailand have capital sources from Chinese and Singaporean giants, as well as solutions and ecosystems that strengthen their parent companies for both e-commerce platforms, management data and international shipping services.

Holding has a complete ecosystem. First, it is involved in popular e-commerce platforms in China such as Taobao and has an express delivery service to support this platform. It has its own network of lockers in Hong Kong and its own stores Heike in China. The company also focuses on supplying stores of e-commerce giants Alibaba and JD.com.

S.F. Express is strong in logistics, including shipping services, which is the starting point of the company, and air express services, which is the highlight of the S.F. empire. S.F. has purchased its own aircraft and manages air transportation, making it the second largest delivery company in China with a wide customer base. The company has 69 cargo aircraft, the largest in Asia.

____

Killer Whales Trapped in Drift Ice off Hokkaido Gone in Likely Escape

By

Kyodo News

-

7 February 2024, 20:22

SAPPORO – Around 10 killer whales found trapped in drift ice off Japan’s northernmost main island of Hokkaido likely escaped as they appear to no longer be there, local officials said Wednesday.

“As the gap in the drift ice started to open, it’s likely they escaped,” said an official of the town of Rausu after the animals could not be spotted through binoculars Wednesday morning.

On Tuesday, a pod of killer whales that included calves was seen from a small gap in the water’s surface around 1 kilometer from the coast, according to the town.

The town could not carry out a rescue operation as its vessels were unable to get to the animals, it said, after the space between the drift ice may have been frozen and blocked by low temperatures.

Hokkaido whale — a pod of killer whales trapped in drift ice in waters off Rausu, Hokkaido, on Feb. 6, 2024. (Copyright Wildlife Pro LLC)(Kyodo)

In a similar case in Rausu in February 2005, a number of killer whales died after around 10 of them became trapped in drift ice.

The town of Rausu is located on the Shiretoko Peninsula in eastern Hokkaido. Shiretoko is recognized as a World Natural Heritage Site by the U.N. Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization.

According to Associated Press, the officials returned to the coast Tuesday evening and saw the pod had moved to the north, and it was gone when they returned again Wednesday morning, Rausu official Masataka Shirayanagi said.

Officials said they believe the killer whales were able to free themselves from the drift ice as gaps between them grew.

“We believe they were able to escape safely,” Shirayanagi said.

AP24038283357371 — A pod of killer whales bobbing up and down in a small gap surrounded by drift ice in Rausu, Hokkaido, northern Japan, Feb. 6, 2024. Japanese officials say a pod of killer whales that was trapped in drift ice off the northern main island of Hokkaido, prompting concern from environmental groups, has apparently safely escaped. (NTV-NNN via AP)

The footage, captured by a drone flown by a conservationist group and shown on NHK national television and on social media, prompted concern in and outside Japan about the whales’ conditions and pleas for the Japanese government to help. One group submitted a request to the Defense Ministry to mobilize an ice breaker to help free them.

Although the trapped whales were in Japanese waters, they were not far from an island that is disputed by Japan and Russia. Japan marked the annual Northern Territory Day on Wednesday to renew its demand for the return of the Russian-held islands.

The dispute over the islands, which the former Soviet Union seized from Japan at the end of World War II, has prevented the two countries from signing a peace treaty formally ending their war hostilities. Moscow announced it was cutting off negotiations with Tokyo over Japanese sanctions following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi told reporters on Wednesday that killer whales are not designated as an endangered species in Japan and that officials were monitoring the situation while Japan and Russia communicated over the issue.

Thailand and Muslim Separatist Rebels Agree on Roadmap to Peace, Malaysian Facilitator Says

By

Associated Press

-

7 February 2024, 19:41

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia (AP) — Malaysia’s facilitator said Wednesday that the Thai government and Muslim separatist rebels in southern Thailand have agreed in principle on a roadmap to try to end a decades-long Muslim insurgency.

The sides held two days of talks in the Malaysian capital, Kuala Lumpur, and will meet again over the next two months to iron out details of the peace plan, said Malaysian facilitator Zulkifli Zainal Abidin.

“It is a major breakthrough after the dialogue was stalled the past year due to the Thai election,” he told a news conference.

AP24038297821933 — Zulkifli Zainal Abidin, Malaysia’s facilitator of peace talks for southern Thailand, center, speaks during a press conference as Chatchai Bangchaud, from Southern Border Provinces of Thailand (PEDP), left, and Ustaz Anas Abdul Rahman from Barisan Revolution Nasional Melayu Patani (BRN), listen at a hotel in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Wednesday, Feb. 7, 2024. (AP Photo/Vincent Thian)

“The (peace plan), if the technical teams agree, will be signed as soon as possible. … There is light at the end of the tunnel. Both parties are willing to put pen on paper. Previously there was no talk of signing any documents.”

Malaysia has hosted and facilitated talks between the separatist groups and the Thai government since 2013, but little progress has been made.

Almost 7,000 people have died in the insurgency in Thailand’s three southernmost provinces, the only ones with Muslim majorities, since 2004. The fighting is intermittent but brutal, with the separatists carrying out drive-by shootings and bombings, and the government accused of torturing suspects and other abuses.

AP24038298006771 — Ustaz Anas Abdul Rahman from Barisan Revolution Nasional Melayu Patani (BRN), center, speaks during a press conference at a hotel in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Wednesday, Feb. 7, 2024. (AP Photo/Vincent Thian)

Southern Thai Muslims — whose ethnicity, culture and language differ from the Buddhist majority — believe they are treated as second-class citizens and have the sympathy of many Malaysians, about 60% of whom are Muslim.

Anas Abdulrahman, the head of the Barisan Revolusi Nasional -– the largest of the insurgents groups in southern Thai — told reporters that he has high hopes for a lasting solution under the new Thai government led by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. The Thai government last year appointed Chatchai Bangchuad, the first civilian to head the talks.

Chatchai said that any signing of the peace plan will have to depend on the outcome of the technical discussions.

Srettha Government Challenges Both Bank of Thailand and the NACC

By

Khaosod English

-

7 February 2024, 17:58

srettha bot-nacc1 — Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin answers the questions about BoT and the NACC to the media on February 7, 2024.

BANGKOK – The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) of the Bank of Thailand (BoT) voted 5 to 2 to keep the policy interest rate at 2.50 percent in the meeting on February 7, 2024, while the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) held a press conference to present the suggestions that appear to oppose the government’s 10,000 baht digital wallet scheme.

Both are not good signs for the government.

Throughout the 5-month work of the government led by the Pheu Thai Party cannot drive the digital wallet policy to stimulate the economy after facing clear objections from the independent organisations.

Prime Minister Srettha, who is also the finance minister, has been at odds with the central bank over the path of monetary policy, claiming that the economy required support and that inflation was not a threat.

Previously he suggested the MPC should consider cutting interest rates by 0.25% because interest is a serious issue affecting people’s spending and should be addressed as soon as possible to avoid deflation.

The result of constant interest rates at 2.50 instead of 2.25 on Wednesday, therefore, shows the BoT does not work as a team with the government.

“As I mentioned yesterday, we want to see monetary and fiscal policy operate together. And now we’ve had minus inflation for four months. When asked if I agree with the MPC, I must respond that I disagree. But I do not have the authority to interfere. The MPC can enact monetary policy independently,” said the prime minister.

However, he has not mentioned BoT Governor Sethaput Suthiwartnarueput, whose Pheu Thai Party supporters called for his removal.

interest rate — Bank of Thailand governor Setthaput Suthiwartnarueput has a talk with PM Srettha Thavisin at the Government House on December 10, 2024.

At the same time, Srettha stated that he listened to the NACC’s advice and observations regarding corruption. The NACC’s duty is to investigate corruption and misbehaviour, while the government is responsible for implementing policies.

“As I discussed about the vulnerable category of individuals, if you earned 20,000 baht but have a lot of debt, would you claim that you are also fragile and want the same stimulation? “This is also a sensitive matter,” the Prime Minister stated after the NACC had announced its suggestion.

The NACC secretary general, Niwatchai Kasemmongkol, stated during the press conference that the NACC has no mandate to stop the government from going ahead with the 10,000 baht digital wallet handout scheme but warns that the government could be breaking the law, unduly benefiting certain groups, and that the nation is not in an economic crisis to be in need of such a scheme.

Among the eight suggestions presented at the press conference were for the Srettha administration to thoroughly analyse and analyse if certain groups of politicians, political parties, or individuals will unfairly gain from the system. The NACC proposed that the government only assist vulnerable groups.

Niwatchai also asks the Election Commission to look into whether the Pheu Thai Party’s campaign promises on the issue actually matched the government’s policy announcement or not. He adds that the government could focus on helping those who are truly needy instead.

“The laws doesn’t give the NACC the power to stop the scheme unless there’s corruption,” Niwatchai said.

___

Hot News

LATEST NEWS