German Child Prostitution Suspect Apologises to Thailand

By

-

26 January 2024, 14:49

WIESBADEN – Pol. Gen. Surachate Hakparn, deputy commander of the Royal Thai Police, travelled to Wiesbaden, Germany, on January 25, 2024, to meet with the German authorities about the case of a German citizen, Mr. Jens, who is accused of buying sexual services from minors in Pattaya that has become scandalous stories last year.

Pol. Gen. Surachate stated that the allegations from Mr. Jens’ interview with the DW documentary, in which he said the Thai judiciary had accepted one million baht to let him escape to Germany, have been proven to be false.

“The German public prosecutor’s office confirmed to me on talk that Mr. Jens was taken into custody and investigated after his return to Germany. The authorities assured that no payments were made to anyone, except for legal fees for bail, and emphasized the cooperation of Thai officials in the process,” Pol. Gen. Surachate said.

bigjoke berlin2 — Pol. Gen. Surachate Hakparn, deputy commander of the Royal Thai Police, attended a meeting with German authorities at the Serious and Organised Crime (SO) Federal Criminal Police Office in Wiesbaden, Germany, on January 25, 2024.

Jens told the German public prosecutor that he did not know how old the Thai girl was. He explained that he had asked for bail because he had health problems and needed to take care of some business. He was then placed on a travel restriction due to COVID-19, so he could not return to Thailand as ordered by the Thai court.

Jens also wrote a letter clarifying the situation and explicitly pointing out that the information contained in the documentary had been manipulated to damage Thailand’s image. He regretted having participated in an interview without fully understanding the situation and apologized for the damage caused.

The German prosecutor also stated that they are willing to work with the National Police Office in Thailand to combat human trafficking and maintain Thailand’s reputation as a tourist destination.

Pol. Gen. Surachate said that the trip to Germany was a success beyond all expectations. Although they have not met or spoken to Jens directly, they have received a written statement in German. In this document, Mr. Jens clarified the information and alleged distortions in the news report that claimed he paid one million baht as bribe to Thai officials.

The Deputy Commander of the National Police announced that all documents will be brought back for further examination and expansion of the investigation, with a scheduled meeting at the police club upon the delegation’s return to Thailand.

_____

ONYX Hospitality Group Launches Shama Suasana Johor Bahru in Malaysia

By

Contributor

-

26 January 2024, 13:43

ONYX Hospitality Group, the prominent management company in Southeast Asia specialising in hotels & resorts, serviced apartments and luxury residences, has achieved a significant milestone with the launch of Shama Suasana Johor Bahru in Malaysia, marking the opening of the first Shama property in the country.

This achievement is highly significant as it makes Malaysia the first country, outside of Thailand, to host all three ONYX brands: Amari, OZO, and Shama, reaffirming ONYX’s commitment to expanding its presence in Southeast Asia.

The signing ceremony took place on 18th January 2024 at Amari Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia, with Dennis Ng Yew Khim, Group Managing Director, United Malayan Land Bhd, and Mr. Yuthachai Charanachitta, CEO of ONYX Hospitality Group. United Malayan Land (UMLand) is one of Malaysia’s premier property and township development companies. Shama Suasana Johor Bahru marks the second opening in partnership between ONYX Hospitality Group and UMLand, following the five-star Amari Johor Bahru in 2017.

The Shama brand is renowned for its commitment to providing contemporary, stylish, and spacious serviced apartments, where vibrant community thrives in a cosy homely haven. At each Shama property, a true sanctuary of belonging is created – strangers become family, greeted with open arms and a sense of home.

Scheduled to open in Q1, 2024, Shama Suasana Johor Bahru offers a modern living experience in the heart of the city, seamlessly combining the warmth and coziness of home with luxury facilities and services. Nestled next to the Zenith Lifestyle Centre, Johor Bahru’s premier entertainment hub, and within walking distance to malls, department stores, and Johor Bahru’s Heritage Trail, Shama Suasana Johor Bahru promises an unforgettable stay for both leisure and business travellers. Conveniently located just a short drive from Singapore, it provides easy access via the Rapid Transport System, and the CIQ (a customs, immigration and quarantine checkpoint for cars, buses, and the JB Sentral train station) is within walking distance, making travel effortless.

The elegantly appointed suites at Shama Suasana Johor Bahru are comfortable and luxurious. Featuring spacious living rooms and separate bedrooms, the latest modern comforts and features, and fully equipped kitchenettes, guests can be certain to have an enchanting and unforgettable stay complete with all the comforts of home.

The Shama foundation is built on community, fostering heartwarming connections. Whether a brief visit or settling in for an extended stay, everyone is embraced as part of the Shama family. Spaces are thoughtfully curated to encourage residents and neighbours to relax and connect, inviting them to uncover hidden charms of the neighbourhood with the freedom to explore. Shama embodies tranquillity, echoed in the brand’s rippling logo representing lively local cultures and daily experiences.

The expansion of the Shama brand into Malaysia forms part of ONYX Hospitality Group’s strategy to drive significant expansion in the hotel, resort, and serviced apartment business in Southeast Asia. As it seeks to achieve the overall vision of establishing itself as “The Best Medium-sized Hospitality Management Company in Southeast Asia”, the company is on track to operate over 50 properties by 2025, up from 44 at present, and an even more ambitious target of 70 by 2028.

ONYX Hospitality Group is a well-established and leading hotel management company with a strong presence and reputation in the global travel market. With more than five decades of experience, ONYX Hospitality Group prides itself on its ability to bridge the best of Asian hospitality practices with global business precision – with the brand promise ‘A Tailored Approach to Hospitality’. ONYX Hospitality Group’s commitment to delivering exceptional guest experiences and providing top-notch services is at the heart of its operations. At the core of ONYX’s business model is a dedication to offering outstanding customer service, a commitment to sustainability and responsible tourism, and a focus on adapting to the ever-evolving dynamics of the global travel industry.

Further planned expansion in the pipeline: OZO Medini (Q2 2024) and Shama Medini (Q1 2025). These properties will again see ONYX partner with UMLand Bhd.

From Left to Right: Mr. Tun Musa Hitam, Chairman Emeritus of UMLand Bhd., Mr. Dennis Ng Yew Khim, Group Managing Director of UMLand Bhd., Mr. Yuthachai Charanachitta, CEO of ONYX Hospitality Group, Mr. Harold Olaya Leon, SVP. Head of Operations of ONYX Hospitality Group

For more information about ONYX Hospitality Group, please visit www.onyx-hospitality.com.

Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/ONYXHospitality

Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/onyxhospitalitygroup/

Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/onyx-hospitality-group/

Man Sentenced To Death Over 2019 Kyoto Animation Arson That Killed 36

By

Kyodo News

-

25 January 2024, 22:48

TOKYO – A Japanese court on Thursday sentenced Shinji Aoba to death for the 2019 arson attack on a Kyoto Animation Co. studio that killed 36 people, finding him mentally competent to be held accountable for his crimes.

Aoba, 45, earlier admitted to setting the blaze at the animation firm’s premises in Kyoto, western Japan, on July 18, 2019. In addition to the deaths, 32 employees were injured in the attack that has gone down as one of Japan’s worst mass murders.

As the defendant confessed to his role in the incident, the focus of the trial at the Kyoto District Court had been on whether he could be declared mentally competent.

Aoba had told the court he was motivated to carry out his crimes under the belief that Kyoto Animation had plagiarized a novel he entered into a contest run by the firm.

While Presiding Judge Keisuke Masuda acknowledged that Aoba did suffer from a delusional disorder, his conduct was little affected by it, and the defendant was “not in a state of mental incompetence or diminished capacity” at the time.

The court concluded there was no reason to avoid the death penalty even after considering circumstances favorable to the defendant, such as showing remorse, ruling his responsibility for taking 36 lives is “extremely heavy.”

The defense team had sought an acquittal or lesser sentence, arguing Aoba was not of sound mind and suffering from delusions. The 45-year-old has said he believed he was fighting back against a “dark figure” who was the architect of his book’s failure in the competition and its alleged theft.

Although Aoba apologized to the bereaved for the first time during the trial on Dec. 6, he continued to assert that the firm copied his novel.

ani arson2 — A motorcade believed to be carrying Shinji Aoba, who has confessed to a deadly arson attack in July 2019 on a Kyoto Animation Co. studio, heads to the Kyoto District Court in Kyoto, western Japan, on Jan. 25, 2024, for his sentencing hearing. (Kyodo)

On the day of the sentencing, Aoba entered court in a wheelchair pushed by a prison officer, his face and neck showing red scars caused by burns he sustained in the fire. He remained seated when bowing with others present at the start of court proceedings.

When asked if he had anything to say before the court announced his sentence, an emotionless Aoba said he did not. Similarly, he showed little reaction when the court delivered its verdict.

Amid interest in the high-profile trial, 409 members of the public lined up outside the courtroom in snowy conditions in a bid to secure tickets for one of 23 seats made available for observing proceedings.

Kyoto Animation, often referred to as “KyoAni,” is known worldwide for producing hit anime works including “K-On!” and “The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya.”

Smoke billows from a three-story building of Kyoto Animation in a fire in Kyoto, western Japan, Thursday, July 18, 2019. Kyoto prefectural police said the fire broke out Thursday morning after a man burst into it and spread unidentified liquid and put fire. Photo:Kyodo News via AP

The company’s President Hideaki Hatta said in a statement that the court gave an “appropriate response and decision in accordance with the law,” but added, “Even after the ruling, our sorrow has not changed in the slightest.”

He paid tribute to all who took part in the trial and mourned the loss of lives in the attack before pledging that the company will continue to produce work while treasuring its employees.

According to the ruling, Aoba entered the firm’s Studio 1 at around 10:30 a.m. and started the fire using gasoline. There were 70 employees in the building at the time.

The trial began last September, more than four years after the incident, as Aoba sustained life-threatening burns and needed to undergo intense treatment and rehabilitation.

____

Anime Studio Hit by Deadly Fire Is Known for Skill, Fan Base

Two More Lions Appear on the Road in Chonburi

By

Khaosod English

-

25 January 2024, 19:28

CHONBURI – On January 25, 2024, two more lions were spotted in Chonburi province, Thailand, causing concern among locals. The incident occurred after a video went viral showing a foreigner driving a Bentley convertible with a lion cub through a busy street in Pattaya.

Residents in Moo 4, Huay Yai district, found two large lions roaming the streets of Soi Khao Ma Kok 13 before being led home by a caretaker.

Police officers from Huay Yai Police Station, the Tourist Police, and the Department of National Parks, Wildlife, and Plant Conservation (DNP) responded to the incident and found that the two lions were pets at a house in Moo 4, Bang Lamung district. The lions were a male and a female, and there were also two Rottweilers in the house.

Miss Sky, 28, the lions’ owner, said she has had the two lions since they were about 45 days old. They were originally kept at Sattahip, but she brought them to this home six months ago. The lions are now about 10 months old and she keeps them with the dogs. She said the lions have never shown any aggression towards her or anyone else. She added that people can touch the lions when she is around.

She said the lions had escaped because the automatic gate to the property opened by itself. The caretaker quickly brought them back into the house and locked the gate to prevent it from opening again.

Miss Sky then showed the officers documents showing that she had obtained the two lions from a lion breeding farm. She also told the officers that she wanted to sell the lions back to the farm within the next two days.

lion couple2 — The owner said that people can touch the lions when she is around.

The officials said they would carefully consider how to proceed with the case.

Kongkiat Temtamnan, Director of the Office of Conservation Area 2 (Sriracha), announced later the preliminary examination results: Both lions were implanted with microchip numbers, but only one of them matched. The other one does not match the document transferring the lion from the farm to the owner.

Furthermore, the lion was kept without permission, as the lion possession timetable requires anyone who owns a lion before October 18, 2022, to notify National Park Service officials by March 2023.

Since the owner has been in possession of the lions since December 29, 2022, she must have notified them immediately. But in this case, the owner hasn’t been notified. Therefore, it is considered an offence to possess controlled wild animals.

According to the Wildlife Act, officials were required to seize them. Then they’ll be housed in the Bang Lamung Wildlife Breeding Station. The veterinary team must first get the owner’s approval before loading the animal into the car.

lion couple1 — The lion couple has been raised with Rottweilers in the house.

In the Pattaya lion cub case, Prasert Sornsathapornkul, director of the DNP’s Wildlife and Plant Conservation Department, announced on January 25 that officials have charged three people with possessing a controlled wildlife species without a permit.

The three individuals are Miss Pupe, the owner of the lion, Miss Albina, a Ukrainian national, the lion’s keeper and a Sri Lankan businessman who drives the car in the video. The charges carry a maximum penalty of one year in prison, a fine of 100,000 baht (about 2,700 dollars) or both.

The DNP also accused the owner of the farm, Mr. Kitt, of possessing a lion and moving it without permission. The charges carry a maximum penalty of six months in prison, a fine of 50,000 baht (about $1,350) or both.

“The lion cub is still in the house where it was found,” Prasert said. “It is being cared for by someone familiar with it until the investigation is complete. Then it will be returned to the farm.”

According to data from January 23, 2024, there are 38 people statewide who have reported owning 224 lions. There are 14 lions in Chonburi Province, with one owner claiming to own two of them for recreation; the remaining lions live on three farms and one zoo.

The DNP said it will expedite its inspections of all lion owners to ensure the lions are kept in safe and secure conditions.

____

AIS Crowned ASEAN’s Top Corporate Brand 2023 With the Highest Brand Value

By

Contributor

-

25 January 2024, 18:07

AIS, Thailand’s leading telecommunications company, proudly announces its recognition as the ASEAN’s Top Corporate Brand 2023, solidifying its position as the foremost telecommunications organization in the region. This accolade, valued at USD 9.83 billion according to CBS Valuation, marks AIS as the sole Thai company to receive this prestigious award in the Southeast Asia.

AIS has consistently demonstrated excellence in the telecommunications sector, catered to the evolving needs of customers and investors. This award follows AIS previous successes, including five consecutive years of being named Thailand’s Top Corporate Brands in the Information Technology and Communication category, leading to induction into the Thailand’s Top Corporate Brand Hall of Fame in 2016.

Somchai Lertsutiwong, Chief Executive Officer of AIS, underscored the company’s commitment to digital infrastructure development, customer satisfaction, and responsible corporate management for the past 34 years.

He declared, “Our core philosophy revolves around advancing digital infrastructure for the nation’s benefits and delivering unparalleled the digital communication and services. We remain dedicated to responsible benefit management, encompassing fairness, investment, revenue generation, and sustainable returns, all in alignment with our vision and commitment to fostering a strong and sustainable brand.””

The CBS Valuation, a trusted brand valuation tool developed by the Faculty of Commerce and Accountancy at Chulalongkorn University, played a crucial role in determining AIS’s brand value. This tool, designed by Prof. Emeritus Dr. Guntalee Ruenrom and Asst. Prof. Dr. Aek Pattaratanakun, received recognition as an outstanding research project in economics from the National Research Council in 2014. It has been actively contributing to brand research for 15 years.

Mr. Somchai concluded by expressing his immense pride in receiving the ASEAN’s Top Corporate Brand 2023 award, considering it a significant honor and a powerful testament to AIS’s unwavering dedication to build organizational strength. he reaffirmed the continued commitment of AIS employees to prioritizing customer satisfaction, pursuing ongoing development, and embracing the integration of future technologies.

These efforts, he emphasized, would contribute not only to the company’s sustainable growth but also to the thriving digital economy of Thailand. The award, he emphasized, is not just a recognition for AIS but also a landmark achievement for Thailand, It served as a shining example of the private sector’s capability to play a pivotal role in supporting the country’s continued growth and advancement on the ASEAN stage.

Siam Paragon Celebrates Chinese New Year 2024 With 8 Wonders of the Year of the Dragon

By

Contributor

-

25 January 2024, 17:23

To celebrate the Chinese New Year 2024, Siam Paragon, which solidifies its positioning as a top-of-mind ‘global destination’ for Thais and international visitors, collaborates with KASIKORNBANK to proudly present a spectacular celebration to usher in the Year of the Dragon titled “Siam Paragon Golden Prosperous Chinese New Year 2024: The Greatest Year of the Dragon.”

The festivities will take place from February 8–11, 2024, at Siam Paragon, Bangkok.

Fascinating experience awaits with the unveiling of ‘8 Wonders of the Year of the Dragon,’ that showcase captivating Chinese art and culture. In addition, indulge in full entertainment with renowned stars from China and Thailand. Admission is free. Siam Paragon also offers enticing promotions to delight shoppers, ensuring an unapparelled shopping experience to welcome the Year of the Dragon.

The ‘8 Wonders of the Year of the Dragon,’ will commence with Wonder No. 1: The presence of one of the renowned Chinese actor, Lin Yi, who will extend Chinese New Year wishes to Thai fans on 8 February 2024 at a special event and the opening ceremony.

On 10 February 2024, Thai celebrities Mai-Davika Hoorne will be joined by Kanawut ‘Gulf’ Traipipattanapong, both will be adorned with Bulgari’s high jewelry collection ‘Serpenti.’ Also, meet 10 trainees from Chuang Asia, a captivating idol survival show that brings together exceptional young talents from across Asia.

Furthermore, from 8 -11 February 2024, at Parc Paragon, Siam Paragon, immerse in the fascinating ambiance of the Dragon kingdom with Miracle No. 2: ‘Tranquil Serenity Dragon.’ Experience the awe-inspiring art installation of a colossal 6-meter-high pastel dragon crafted by the leading American artist Ken Kelleher, also known as Anchorball.

An expert in creating giant art installations, Kelleher has showcased his works in numerous cities and countries such as New York, Qatar, China, and Indonesia. Specifically designed for this event, the dragon represents the balance between energy and peace of mind.

Miracle No. 3 Capture the spirit of Chinese New Year at the “Tunnel of Prosperity,” featuring a 72-meter-long dragon at Parc Paragon, as well as an auspicious golden dragon located at The Jewel on the M floor.

Miracle No. 4: Pay respects to the 5-meter-tall replica god Che Kung Miu through from the renowned Che Kung Miu temple in Hong Kong. Visitors will get a change to receive a gold card from Che Kung Temple to enhance good fortune. Katha Chinnabanchorn, a renowned Thai fortune-teller and brand ambassador for the Hong Kong Tourism Board, has traveled to Hong Kong to respectfully conduct an invitation ceremony so that the replica may be present in Bangkok for worshipers to pay tribute and pray for blessings

Miracle No. 5: An exquisite orchestral performance featuring timeless Chinese songs harmonized with the charming melodies of the guzheng instrument. The Thammasat University Symphony Orchestra will captivate the audience with compositions that accompany novels written by the celebrated Chinese author Jin Yong (Louis Cha). Jin Yong is renowned for crafting legendary Chinese martial arts novels such as “The Book and the Sword,” “The Legend of the Condor Heroes,” “The Demi-Gods and Semi-Devils,” and “The Smiling, Proud Wanderer.”

The performance will also showcase classic Chinese songs like “Justice Pao” (Bao Qingtian), “Shanghai Grand,” and more.

Miracle No. 6: The captivating Chinese cultural performance including an auspicious Golden Dragon Dance, a graceful acrobatics from China in a performance titled “Jewel of the Land of the Dragon” by the Chinese Acrobatic Troupe from Shanghai and a swirling “Top Dance”.

Miracle No. 7: Have your fortune read by renowned fortune tellers at the charitable fortune-telling event “Siriwattana Fortune-Telling for the Disabled” taking place from 16-23 February 2024, at the Living Gallery on the 3rd floor.

Miracle No. 8: Enjoy special Chinese New Year promotions that will delight shoppers plus exclusive privileges for ONESIAM KBank cardholders. “Siam Paragon Golden Prosperous Chinese New Year 2024” promotion campaign runs from 26 January 2024 – 26 February 2024.

Indulge in the discounts of up to 50% at participating stores and restaurants. For the spending of 1,000 baht or more, receive a 100-baht Siam Gift Card, with a limit of 50 prizes per day. Additionally, those spending 15,000 baht or more, or exclusively for ONESIAM KBank credit card holders with only 13,000-baht spending, will be eligible to receive a 500-baht Siam Gift Card, with a limit of 80 prizes per day.

Also enjoy a maximum of 17 percent cashback from participating credit cards or enjoy 0% ten-month installation offer with the purchase of 10,000-baht Siam Gift Card via ONESIAM KBank Credit Cards or six-month installation plan via Kasikorn Credit Card.

Furthermore, “Luck with Love” promotion that runs from 8-14 February 2024, for purchases of 20,000 baht or more at participating stores, or ONESIAM KBank cardholders spend only 18,000 baht, get a reward of a Siam Gift Card worth 1,200 baht, with a limit of 200 prizes per day and ONESIAM KBank credit cardholders can also receiving ONESIAM COINS, with a total of 11,000 COINS available.

Saruntorn Asaves, the First Executive Vice President and Division Head of the Shopping Center Business at Siam Piwat Group, expressed, “The Year of the Dragon holds immense significance as it marks the 12th year, signifying the zodiac’s anniversary. The dragon, revered as a symbol of auspiciousness, greatness, and righteousness, holds special importance in Chinese beliefs.

Siam Paragon, as a top-of-mind global destination for both locals and international visitors, has been recognized as one of Thailand’s leading destinations for celebrating the vibrant Chinese New Year for more than 18 years. This year, we are gearing up for an extravagant celebration of the Chinese New Year, the Year of the Dragon, extending a warm welcome to both Thais and international visitors from across the globe.

Our Chinese New Year celebration, ‘Siam Paragon the Golden Prosperous Chinese New Year 2024: The Greatest Year of the Dragon,’ is set to showcase ‘8 Wonders of the Year of the Dragon‘ to offer extraordinary experiences in the rich dimensions of Chinese art and culture, auspiciousness, and full entertainment, a remarkable welcome to the Chinese New Year. Additionally, as part of our commitment to promote tourism and boost the shopping economy, we are also offering promotions of the year to delight shoppers.”

Experience the spirit of the Chinese New Year, the Year of the Dragon at “Siam Paragon Golden Prosperous Chinese New Year 2024,” taking place from 8-11 February 2024, at Siam Paragon.

For further details, please follow Facebook: Siam Paragon or contact 02-610-8000.

#SiamParagon #SiamParagonChineseNewYear2024 #SiamParagonxLINYI #SiamParagonxChuangAsia

Thailand Welcomes the German President for Strategic Partnership

By

Khaosod English

-

25 January 2024, 14:58

BANGKOK – The first German president to pay an official visit to Thailand since 2002 said on Thursday, during his visit on January 24-26, that the country is an attractive investment opportunity.

It also marked the first official visit to Thailand by the Head of a foreign Government under Thailand’s current administration.

At a joint press conference held by Prime Minister and Finance Minister Srettha Thavisin and German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, the two heads of state announced their intention to develop their relations into a strategic partnership.

German President Steinmeier said that Vietnam and Thailand are both attractive investment destinations for German companies. He pointed out that Thailand has a number of advantages over other countries, including a strong interest in supporting trade cooperation with the European Union and Germany. He also pointed out Thailand’s favorable trade policies and regulations.

frank srettha2 — Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, German first lady Elke B’denbender and Thai first lady Pakpilai Thavisin review an honor guard during a welcome ceremony at the government house in Bangkok, Thailand, Thursday, Jan. 25, 2024. Steinmeier is on a three-day visit to Thailand. (Khaosod Photo/ Sompong Wanjapoh)

Steinmeier added Germany and Thailand enjoy 160 years of friendship, its bilateral trade is worth 14 billion euros last year, and there are 600 Germany companies operating in Thailand.

President of Germany told a press conference he would like to congratulates Thailand for the return of democracy and freedom after the May 2023 election. He also wishes PM Sretta success during his term and welcomed the Constitutional Court’s ruling on Pita Limjaroenrat yesterday. This is a good sign of moving in a good direction for Thailand.

PM Srettha said the two leaders discussed clean energy, which is a key factor in attracting big businesses to invest in Thailand. He also highlighted the role of the Board of Investment of Thailand (BOI), which offers a number of incentives for foreign investors.

german srettha2 — PM Srettha Thavisin hosts lunch to the German President and his wife at the Government House on January 25, 2024.

The Thai prime minister also pointed out that Thailand has a skilled workforce and a range of amenities that make the country attractive for foreigners to live and work in, including a world-class healthcare system.

“Germany is Thailand’s largest trading partner in the European Union, and Thailand is Germany’s third largest trading partner in ASEAN. The two countries have been mutually beneficial partners for many years. Today we have agreed to develop our relations into a strategic partnership,” said the Thai head of government.

Srettha said that both sides are committed to promoting cooperation in the areas of sustainability, climate protection and energy transition and that Germany is willing to support Thailand in developing renewable energy technologies to increase the share of renewable energy in electricity generation to 50 percent by 2040.

frank srettha3 — Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin and Thai first lady Pakpilai Thavisin welcome German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier and German first lady Elke B’denbender at the Thai Government House on January 25, 2024.

Germany has also committed to expand its investment in Thailand’s electric vehicle industry, which would help Thailand become a regional center for electric vehicle production.

In addition, Germany will promote sustainable agriculture in Thailand to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and cooperate in combating PM2.5 air pollution.

“I am very pleased that the Federal President has brought a delegation from German business with him on this trip. I informed about Thailand’s economic potential and the new opportunities for German companies that will arise after the conclusion of negotiations on a free trade agreement between Thailand and the European Union, which we want to achieve by 2025,” said the PM.

“I have also provided information about Thailand’s policies to promote the circular economy, as well as the Land Bridge project, the upgrade of Thailand’s rail transportation and logistics system, the promotion of Ease of Doing Business, and the enhancement of human resources through the expansion of cooperation in vocational education.”

German companies have expressed their interest in investing in Thailand in the areas of international trade, recycling and production of plastic pellets from waste. They have also provided information on their needs for investment in Thailand. The government will take this information into account in its efforts to attract investment from Germany.

PM Srettha also revealed that he has asked the President of Germany to kindly convince his peers in the Schengen zone to allow Thai passport holders to enter the Schengen zone without the need for a visa. German passport holders can currently visit Thailand for 30 days without the need for a visa. The PM added that about 700,000 Germans visited Thailand in 2023.

Infinity Real Estate Holdings Joins Hands with Bluebell Group

By

Contributor

-

25 January 2024, 13:54

Infinity Real Estate Holdings Co., Ltd. (IREH) has retained the services of Bluebell Group effective 15th December 2023 in order to help Infinity Real Estate Holdings navigate through strategic investment opportunities in the region and, importantly, to provide advice and support in preparation for IPO in 2026.

Infinity Real Estate Holdings (IREH) was incorporated in Thailand with a core focus on luxury property development, entertainment, and other investment activities. IREH operates as a hybrid investment model, essentially a real estate investment company backed by a private equity fund. IREH was founded to spearhead its unique expansion into Thailand’s luxury real estate market.

The company has established a reputation in the luxury real estate industry across the Asia-Pacific countries, with award-winning sister properties in Japan, Malaysia, and Australia. With solid fundamentals and an innovative approach, IREH aims to redefine real estate investments in what is a traditional market segment, especially in Thailand.

Jonathan Cheng, group CEO for Infinity Real Estate Holdings, says “our solid track record has cemented our reputation as a leading developer of strategic, opulent properties, known for our discernment of lucrative opportunities, incisive business acumen and delivering consistently high returns.”

“Retaining Bluebell marks a major step forward for our company as we take IREH to the next level. We are confident that given Bluebell’s stellar track record and professional knowledge, we will be able to achieve our IPO in the next 24 months”, adds Mr. Cheng.

Bluebell Group was established by a group of well-seasoned professionals who have years of experience in capital markets and the investment banking industry, helping individual investors and corporate companies pave the road to success. The company has advised UHNW individuals with the right investment opportunities and has also helped steer large corporations with their investment portfolios and through their IPO journey.

“Our reputation of maintaining consistently high standards in the selection of investment products, instilling a high level of confidence and trust amongst our investors, and maintaining a strong track record, delivering best-in-market services for our corporate clients, allows us to be one of the forefront players in the industry. We are proud and confident of working with Infinity Real Estate Holdings and being their partner in achieving their IPO goal”, comments Mr. Amarit Sukhavanij, chief strategy officer of Bluebell Group.

For more information about IREH’s real estate private equity fund and its recent luxury property development projects, please contact [email protected] or +66 2115 8688.

‘Hino We Care’ Drives the Solar Powering Sustainable Project

By

Contributor

-

25 January 2024, 13:20

“Hino We Care” continues “Hino Solar Powering a Sustainable Tomorrow” project by installing the solar cell panel device and the solar cell electricity system at the fourth location: San Kamphaeng Kanta Anusorn School in Chiang Mai Province, by Hino Motors Sales (Thailand) Ltd.

Mr. Ken Iwamoto, the president, together with executives and Chairatchakarn (Bangkok) Co., Ltd. attended the event under the Hino We Care Project and the concept of “Hino Solar Powering a Sustainable Tomorrow” at San Kamphaeng Kanta Anusorn School on January 12, 2024. was installed

Hino perceives the importance of clean energy, which plays an important role in the education sector of Thailand, and environmental sustainability creation; this highlights the effort and commitment of Hino in creating social values along with sustainable business operations.

The “Hino Solar Powering a Sustainable Tomorrow” project and the solar cell, which is considered an option of clean energy will reduce the expenses from the school’ s electricity bills, at an estimated cost of 36,000 baht per year.

As a result, the school will be able to use this budget to improve additional schoolwork and affairs. Acting Second Lieutenant Sayan Oun-ruen, Director of San Kamphaeng Kanta Anusorn school said “I am thankful to Hino Motors Sales (Thailand) Ltd. that has provided supports in terms of solar cell devices.

Apart from direct benefits that the school received, advantages also cause positive impacts on neighboring communities since the school has established the Community Digital Center to open opportunities for children and youths to use and benefit from this Center. Thank Hino for perceiving the importance of children who would grow up to become good adults in the future.

The Hino We Care project : the donation activity of solar cells that emit lights generated by environmentally-friendly and clean energy, has been continuing since Hino has been committed to its business operations under the concept of corporate social responsibility and sustainability, together with creating values among stakeholders, such as customers, business partners and allies, nearby communities, and society.

Hino is committed to setting up environmental goals, and to improving sustainability so that this world can become a better place to live. Follow us via the Hino We Care project, which can bring happiness and smiles to people in Thai society and this world, today and forever.

For more information, good activities, and the latest updates, please visit www.hinothailand.com, Facebook: Hino Thailand Fan Club, Line: @hinoth, YouTube: Hino Thailand Official, and TikTok: @hinoth.

A Fire In China’s Jiangxi Province Kills 39 People Caused by Improper Renovation

By

Associated Press

-

25 January 2024, 12:57

China Fire — Firefighters work at the site of a building fire in Xinyu City, east China's Jiangxi Province, Wednesday, Jan. 24, 2024. (Zhou Mi, Xinhua via AP)

BEIJING (AP) — A fire broke out in a commercial building in China’s southeastern Jiangxi province on Wednesday, killing at least 39 people and injuring nine others, state media said.

Officials for the Yushui district of Jiangxi province said that the fire broke out in the basement of a shopping area in the afternoon. In addition to rescue workers, firefighters and police, local government officials were deployed to the scene.

State broadcaster CCTV later reported that rescue operations were complete and that no people remained trapped in the building, which it said housed an internet cafe in the basement and tutoring centers on upper floors.

Chinese President Xi Jinping issued a statement about the blaze, noting that it was yet another safety tragedy. He called on the government and Communist Party to “resolutely curb the frequent occurrence of various safety accidents, and ensure the safety of people’s lives and property and overall social stability.”

The statement included orders for the State Council’s Work Safety Committee to close any gaps in safety measures.

AP24024547069470 — Firefighters work at the site of a building fire in Xinyu City, east China’s Jiangxi Province, Wednesday, Jan. 24, 2024. (Zhou Mi, Xinhua via AP)

A preliminary investigation found the blaze was caused during an improper renovation of a cold storage facility in the basement, state-run news agency Xinhua reported. Twelve people have been detained, the agency said.

The tragedy came days after another fire broke out in the dormitory of a boarding school in the central province of Henan late on Friday night, killing 13 children in third grade. Authorities have not disclosed the cause of that blaze.

Hot News

LATEST NEWS