On International Human Rights Day, December 10th, Charoen Pokphand Group launched its third annual human rights report. The report, developed upon the principles of the United Nations Guiding Principles Reporting Framework (UNGPRF), was created to better communicate to the Group’s stakeholders on the Group’s human rights efforts.
By fostering transparency and cooperation with stakeholders, the Group hopes to encourage constructive conversations that will drive improvement in human rights management both within the Group and in the wider industry.
The report covers the Group’s human rights management, including human rights governance and salient issues. The Group’s salient issues this year include forced labor and migrant labor; occupational health and safety; discrimination and harassment; and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I).
The right to a clean, healthy, and sustainable environment, which was enshrined as a human right by the United Nation General Assembly on July 28th, 2022, has also been recognized by the Group as a salient human rights issue as well.
Furthermore, this year’s report puts the spotlight on the importance of technology. New technologies are avenues of both challenges and opportunities for human rights.
Mr. Suphachai Chearavanont, Chief Executive Officer of Charoen Pokphand Group, said in his message within the report that “Charoen Pokphand Group, for the last 100 years and beyond, has always been guided by our “Three-Benefit Principle”, which states that we must consider the benefits of the countries and communities we operate within first and foremost – followed by the company’s own interests.
The conjunction of our “Three-Benefit Principle” with our commitment to technological innovations helps us to take concrete measures and make investments in technological solutions. These technologies will improve the traceability and transparency of our supply chains, to ensure that our growth will benefit the economy, the environment, and society.”
By leveraging technological innovations, the Group has been able to tackle inequality through telemedicine and digitalizing education; mitigate and prevent environmental impacts through satellite imaging and renewable energies; and enhance occupational health and safety through GPS monitoring and cybersecurity.
With the world struggling with the impact from the climate crisis, and ballooning inequality, C.P. Group remains committed to protecting and promoting human rights throughout the Group’s value chain, and beyond.
Siam Paragon Marks 18th Anniversary Celebration with ‘World Class Iconic Events’ that Promises an Enchanting Holiday Season
Siam Paragon, a ‘World-class Destination’ and the top-of-mind destination for local and international shoppers, is collaborating with The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and Kasikorn Bank to deliver a unique and unparalleled experience during this festive season with line-up of ‘World Iconic Events’ all through December 2023.
“SIAM PARAGON THE GLORIOUS STAGE OF THE WORLD FESTIVAL” is staged as part of the “Colorful Bangkok 2023” campaign hosted by Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) which aims to promote art, culture, music, tourism, and economic activity within the Bangkok’s community. This Siam Paragon’s event is also a part of the government’s “Thailand Winter Festival” campaign. Visitors will also be indulged in special promotions of the year from 1-31 December 2023.
Siam Paragon Marks 18th Anniversary Celebration
Mrs. Thanaporn Tantiyanon, Head of Business Unit, Siam Paragon, said that Siam Paragon stands as a significant global destination and a top-of-mind destination for Thais and international visitors from across the globe. With a daily footfall ranging between 120,000 to 150,000 visitors, the establishment attracts more than 50 million people annually.
In celebration of the 18th anniversary of Siam Paragon, we are delighted to offer an exceptional experience by hosting ‘World Class Iconic Events.’ Throughout this December, these world-class events collectively craft an unparalleled experience of magic and joy.”
The 18th-anniversary festivities are marked by a grand celebration, highlighted by ‘The Grand Stage of the World’ showcasing ‘World Class Iconic Events’ across Siam Paragon. The global destination is abuzz with an entertainment extravaganza, featuring rotating shows every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday throughout the month of December. These are as follows:
Siam Paragon Magical Balloon Wonderland: Orchestra of the Skies 8-11 December 2023, 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m, at Parc Paragon
An exciting experience between 8-11 December, 2023, from 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., as Parc Paragon becomes a stage for the ‘Orchestra of the Skies’. Immerse in the ultimate fantasy story presented by the world-renowned giant balloon troupe, Plasticiens Volants from France. This extraordinary performance, featuring over 20 balloons and more than 30 ground performers, unfolds at Parc Paragon. The central character of the tale is the Frog Queen, who extends an invitation to her friends, the Zanimo—a delightful assortment of animals, big and small—to join the enchanting “Mystique Carnival” at Parc Paragon. Prepare for a sensory feast on December 8 at 7:00 p.m. with a full audio and visual spectacle complemented by world-class music from the Kasetsart University Wind Symphony. Adding to the allure of the evening, the renowned R&B diva, Lydia-Sarunrat Deane, will graces the stage with her powerful vocals. Join the mesmerizing performance at Parc Paragon, M Floor, Siam Paragon.
Siam Paragon Grand Celebration Music Fest 2023 8-10 December 2023 at Fashion Hall
From December 8 to 10, 2023, enjoy a concert extravaganza at Fashion Hall, 1st floor, Siam Paragon. Immerse yourself in full-scale entertainment, uniting an impressive lineup of renowned artists to celebrate this festive season. On 8December 2023, from 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., features Hypercollab, Ar3na, THI-O & TUTOR, HASHTAX SUPERNOVA, and the dynamic duo “Min-Ping.” On 9December 9 2023, from 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., catch exciting performance from PUN, TOBII, IRON BOY representing Universal Music Thailand, Yes Indeed, TIGGER, MXFRUIT, and PERSES. Concluding on 10December 10 2023, from 12:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., experience performances by PLAN B, KAONAH, SLAPKISS, ZOLAR, Ice Saranyu, and LIPTA.
Siam Paragon Spectacular International Carnivals 15-17 December, 5:30 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. at Parc Paragon.
From December 15 to 17, 2023, at 5:30 p.m. and 7:00 p.m., Parc Paragon invites visitors to experience the captivating spectacle of “Le Dame e La Serva & Pappagalli” from the Netherlands. Prepare to be enchanted as they transform the Parc Paragon area into a realm of extraordinary imagination. Step onto the dance floor alongside noble madams adorned in elegant skirts and marvel at the lively flock of cheerful and colorful parrots.
Siam Paragon Christmas Celebration 22-25 December 2023, at 5:30 p.m. and 7:00 p.m., Parc Paragon
From December 22 to 25, 2023, at 5:30 p.m. and 7:00 p.m., Parc Paragon is set to amplify the festive joy with a surprise parade featuring “Amorous Ballad,” a spectacular performance hailing from France. Witness the enchanting dance of graceful deer as they partake in a magical performance, bringing to life joyful stories heralding the arrival of Christmas!
As an additional delight, prepare to encounter special surprises from Santa and Santy, who are set to take visitors on a heartwarming journey into the Christmas cheer, three times a day at 2:00 p.m., 4:00 p.m., and 6:00 p.m. on both December 24 and 25, 2023, throughout M floor.
“Siam Paragon x Documentary Club Present Joyous Nights of Movies & Melodies” 25-31 December 2021, 5:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m., at SCBX NEXT TECH Stage
“Siam Paragon x Documentary Club Present Joyous Nights of Movies & Melodies” will take place from December 25 to December 31, 2023, at 5:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. Attendees can partake in various activities, including movies and music, as they celebrate the joyous festival at the year’s end. Attendees can enjoy choir performance and inspirational movies. The lineup includes 7 documentaries spanning 7 topics such as food, fashion, and music. Admission is free and will be hosted at SCBX NEXT STAGE on the 4th floor.
Siam Paragon The Glorious Countdown Celebration 2024 29-31 December 2023, Parc Paragon
From December 29 to 31, 2023, starting from 5:00 p.m. onwards, bid farewell to 2023 with a concert extravaganza packed with entertainment. This non-stop celebration will unite renowned artists, both Thai and international, including Lemonhaze, SLAPKISS, Ice Paris, Tilly Birds, ATLAS, ALLY, PLAMY, Three Man Down, 4EVE, NONT TANONT, Sarah Salola, GEMINI FOURTH NANON, MEAN, URBOYTJ, and BUS Because of you i shine.
Adding an extra layer of excitement, expect a surprise appearance by a special guest who will join in counting down to the new era, spreading happiness and leaving a lasting impression on customers. The festivities will run for three full days at Parc Paragon, M Floor, Siam Paragon. Admission is entirely free.
On New Year’s Eve, a special welcome to the New Year, Siam Paragon will extend its opening hours from 9:30 a.m. to 12:00 a.m. These extended hours will be meticulously organized under strict security measures, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
Special End-of-Year Promotions Await
Siam Paragon is spreading non-stop happiness through its exclusive promotional campaign, “The Grand Shopping Festival.” From 1 December 2023, to 21January 21 2024, all general customers who spend 15,000 baht or more are entitled to enjoy substantial discounts of up to 70%. For Kasikorn credit card users, there’s an extra special offer. Simply shop for just 13,000 baht or more, receive a SIAM GIFT CARD worth 500 baht (limited to 80 prizes per day). Additionally, if you indulge in dining with a bill of 1,000 Baht or more, you will be rewarded with a SIAM GIFT CARD worth 100 baht (limited to 50 prizes per day).
In celebration of Siam Paragon’s 18th anniversary, the “SIAM PARAGON 18th ANNIVERSARY SURPRISE DEAL” awaits. From 8 – 12 December 2023, seize the opportunity to enjoy this exclusive promotion. Spend 18,000 baht or more and be rewarded with a SIAM GIFT CARD worth 1,000 baht*. With a limit of 300 prizes per day (limited to 1 redemption privilege per person per day and 2 redemptions per person throughout the promotion period).
For those with the ONESIAM Kasikorn Credit Card, an additional perk is entitled for every spend of 55,000 baht, allowing customers to exchange for 1,000 VIZ Coins (limited to 500 rewards throughout the promotion period).
Explore exclusive offers on luxury brand products from 8-21 December 2023. Take advantage of special promotions: Spend 50,000 baht or more to receive a SIAM GIFT CARD worth 2,500 baht, with 500 prizes available, or indulge in a shopping spree of 300,000 baht or more to secure a SIAM GIFT CARD worth 10,000 baht, limited to 100 prizes (terms and conditions apply, valid exclusively in luxury fashion stores at Siam Paragon).
Additionally, for credit card holders, an extraordinary benefit awaits as you can opt for 0% installment plans for up to 10 months, subject to the terms and conditions specified by the bank.
Furthermore, Siam Paragon extends its commitment to providing exceptional value during the Boxing Day festival from 23-26 December 23 2023, and on New Year’s Eve from 29 December 202, to 1 January 2024.
Shoppers can enjoy discounts of up to 70% on purchases totaling 20,000 baht or more. For added benefits, Kasikorn credit card users, when making purchases of just 18,000 baht and above, will receive a SIAM GIFT CARD worth 1,200 baht, with this special offer limited to 200 prizes per day.
Get ready to immerse yourself in the most delightful festivities throughout December at Siam Paragon. For further details and information, feel free to contact 02-610-8000 or stay updated by following Facebook: Siam Paragon and ONESIAM SuperApp.
At first, only a child's book bag and sandals were found near the car.
BURIRAM – Five villagers from Tha Muang Subdistrict, Satuk District, Buriram Province, including Wiriya Khadchan, 45, Ms. Nucharin Khadchan, 23, his daughter, and three other children, ages 14 years, 11 years, and 8 years, have gone missing since the morning of December 11.
Mrs. Bang-on, 44, Mr. Viriya’s wife, asked for help from the police at Satuek Police Station, who brought police officials and staff from the Wang Krut Rescue Unit to assist in the search after hearing Mrs. Bang-on say that her husband was going to find sand in the Mun River to repair the house.
There was sand in the vehicle.
The officials then proceeded to the Mun River, where they discovered an E-Tak car or a farm tractor parked in the Mun River at 3 p.m. There was sand in the vehicle, but no one was discovered. Near the car, only a child’s book bag and sandals were discovered. As a result, the Wang Krut rescue squad carried a wetsuit to aid in the search.
After more than 3 hours, officials found the body of Mr. Wiriya underwater before finding the bodies of all the missing family members—a total of 5 bodies—near a sand pit, causing grief to relatives. Mrs. Bang-on said she hadn’t thought that everyone who had gone together would all die.
After searching for more than three hours, officials found the five bodies.
It was initially suspected that one of the kids had drowned while playing in the water. Others then went to assist, and they all drowned. Perhaps one of them was hit by quicksand, and as others tried to help, they were sucked together until they died.
The police will still have to wait for the autopsy results from now on.
Hayao Miyazaki’s “The Boy And The Heron." (Studio Ghibli/GKIDS via AP)
NEW YORK (AP) — For the first time in Hayao Miyazaki’s decades-spanning career, the 82-year-old Japanese anime master is No. 1 at the North American box office. Miyazaki’s latest enchantment, “The Boy and the Heron,” debuted with $12.8 million, according to studio estimates.
“The Boy and the Heron,” the long-awaited animated fantasy from the director of “Spirited Away,” “My Neighbor Totoro” and other cherished anime classics, is only the third anime to ever top the box office in U.S. and Canadian theaters, and the first original anime to do so. The film, which is playing in both subtitled and dubbed versions, is also the first fully foreign production to land atop the domestic box office this year.
Though Miyazaki’s movies have often been enormous hits in Japan and Asia, they’ve traditionally made less of a mark in North American cinemas. The director’s previous best performer was his last movie, 2013’s “The Wind Rises,” which grossed $5.2 million in its entire domestic run.
Himi, voiced by Karen Fukuhara in English and AIMYON in Japanese, left and Mahito Maki, voiced by Luca Padovan in English and Soma Santoki in Japanese, in a scene from Hayao Miyazaki’s “The Boy And The Heron.” (Studio Ghibli/GKIDS via AP)
“It’s really a resounding statement for what animation can be,” said Eric Beckman, founder and chief executive of GKIDS, the North American distributor for Studio Ghibli films. “American audiences have been ready for a lot more than what they’ve been getting, and I think this really points to that direction.”
“The Boy and the Heron” for years was expected to be Miyazaki’s swan song. But just as it was making its premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival in September, Junichi Nishioka, Studio Ghibli vice president, said the previously retired Miyazaki has begun working toward another film.
“The Boy and the Heron,” has been hailed as one of the best films of the year. The film, featuring an English dub voice cast including Robert Pattinson, Christian Bale, Dave Bautista and Mark Hamill, follows a boy who, after her mother perishes in World War II bombing, is led by a mysterious heron to a portal that takes him to a fantastical realm. In Japan, its title translates to “How Do You Live?”
Poster for renowned Japanese director Hayao Miyazaki’s animation film “Kimitachi wa Do Ikiru ka” (How Do You Live?). (Copyright 2023 Studio Ghibli via Kyodo)
“The Boy and the Heron” earlier collected $56 million in Japan despite zero promotion. Studio Ghibli opted to release the film without production stills, trailers, ads or billboards.
The U.S. and Canadian release included conventional advertising but was similarly handled with the care of something truly special as a Miyazaki movie. Throughout this year, all 10 of Miyazaki’s films with Ghibli were rereleased in theaters by GKIDS, which was founded in 2008 as way to bring ambitious animation to wider audiences.
“Working on a Hayao Miyazaki film is a huge honor but also kind of terrifying,” Beckman said. “We’re really just trying to do justice to the film.”
Last week’s top film, “Renaissance: A Film by Beyoncé,” dropped steeply in its second weekend. The concert film, the second pop star release distributed by AMC Theatres following Taylor Swift’s “The Eras Tour,” collected $5 million in its second weekend, a decline of 76% from its $21 million opening.
That allowed Lionsgate’s still-going-strong “The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes” to take second place, with an estimated $9.4 million in its fourth weekend of release. The “Hunger Games” prequel has a domestic haul of $135.7 million.
“The Boy and the Heron” wasn’t the only Japanese film that ranked among the top movies in theaters over the weekend. “Godzilla Minus One” followed up its stellar debut last weekend with $8.3 million for Toho Studios. Takashi Yamazaki’s acclaimed kaiju movie dipped just 27% in its second weekend of release, bringing its total to $25 million.
This image released by Toho International shows a scene from “Godzilla Minus One.” (Toho via AP)
Several potential awards contenders got off to strong starts in limited release. Yorgos Lanthimos’ warped fantasy “Poor Things,” starring Emma Stone, opened with $644,000 from nine theaters in New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco and Austin, Texas. “Poor Things” expands in more theaters next week.
Ava DuVernay’s “Origin,” played an Oscar-qualifying run in two theaters in New York and Los Angeles with a per screen average of $58,532 for Neon. It stars Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor as the author Isabel Wilkerson while she investigates race and inequality for her book “Caste: The Origins of Our Discontents.” “Origin” opens wide Jan. 19.
“Wonka,” one of the holiday season’s most anticipated releases, kicked off its overseas run with $43.2 million from 37 international markets. The film, starring Timothée Chalamet and directed by “Paddington” filmmaker Paul King, is expected to lead U.S. and Canada ticket sales next weekend.
Estimated ticket sales for Friday through Sunday at U.S. and Canadian theaters, according to Comscore. Final domestic figures will be released Monday.
1. “The Boy and the Heron,” $12.8 million.
2. “The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes,” $9.4 million.
Pol. Lt. Gen. Itthiphon Itthisanronnachai, commander of the Immigration Bureau, examines the auto-departure passport control at Suvarnabhumi airport on December 11, 2023.
BANGKOK – From December 15, the automatic departure passport control lane at Suvarnabhumi Immigration Inspections will be accessible to visitors with foreign passports.
The commander of the Immigration Bureau, Pol. Lt. Gen. Itthiphon Itthisanronnachai, announced on December 11 that the automatic outbound channel system at Suvarnabhumi Airport, which has had 16 machines since 2012 and was first used to check Thai travellers, will be used to check foreign passengers on December 15.
In response to Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s strategy, the Immigration Bureau upgraded the automatic system to accommodate more foreign visitors.
Suvarnabhumi Airport currently has roughly 50,000-60,000 passengers departing each day, which is a high density during the period when more than 20 flights depart each hour at the same time.
Typically, passengers must go through the check-in process, which includes security screening and immigration. If they are delayed, they may miss their flight. As a result, the Immigration Bureau is working to shorten the steps required to accelerate the discharge of a large number of travellers in order to maintain on-time boarding.
Using this method, departure passengers at Suvarnabhumi Airport will be more readily checked, increasing the initial capability of inspecting roughly 5,000 departing passengers per hour to approximately 12,000 per hour. People who have court orders barring them from leaving the Kingdom, people with criminal arrest warrants, and people who overstay their welcome are all still subject to inspection by the officials.
Foreigners using the automatic channel system must have an e-passport in accordance with ICAO requirements, which include around 70 member nations. It is estimated to have a daily departure volume of approximately 30,000 people.
Furthermore, Airports of Thailand Public Company Limited will purchase an automatic channel system in July 2024 to replace the old system that has been in use for more than 12 years at the Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang airport immigration checkpoints, both inbound and outbound, in the international outbound section.
At Suvarnabhumi, about 80 machines will be installed, up from the original 16 machines, and 16 machines will be placed as replacements at international arrivals.
In terms of Don Mueang Airport, eight machines will be installed to replace the original four international departures and four international arrivals. There will be a more current, accurate, and efficient system than previously. This can bring in extra police to enhance the inbound passport control checks, allowing for more passenger inspections on congested flights.
BANGKOK – The recent minimum wage adjustment by the Tripartite Committee of employers, workers, and the government has sparked widespread controversy. Even Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin explicitly stated his disagreement. Particularly in the southern border provinces, where the wage was increased by only 2 baht, he emphasized that this amount is not even enough to buy a single egg, prompting a need for a reevaluation.
“One cannot even buy one egg with two baht, it needs to be reviewed,” Srettha said the ruling Pheu Thai Party pledge is to significantly increase minimum wage and the ministry’s announcement for all the provinces must be reconsidered.
The PM disagrees with the minimum daily wage hike of just two baht in the three southernmost provinces of Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwat, from 328 to 330 baht, as one cannot even buy one egg for two baht.
Pipat Ratchakitprakarn, Minister of Labour, stated on Monday, Dec. 11, that it is his responsibility as Minister of Labour to bring the unanimous resolution at the Ministry of Labour Tripartite Meeting on December 8 to present to the Cabinet meeting on December 12 to acknowledge and what the Cabinet’s opinion will be; it must be discussed further within the tripartite.
The Labour Ministry on December 8 announces new minimum wages effective January 1, 2024. Phuket saw the highest increase of 16 baht to 370 baht per day, followed by Bangkok and the surrounding provinces of Nonthaburi, Pathum Thani, Samut Prakarn, Samut Sakorn and Nakhon Pathom with a 10 baht increase, or around three percent increase, to 363 baht per day. The three provinces in the deep south, Yala, Narathiwat and Pattani see the lowest increase as well as lowest minimum wage, and increase of just two baht to 330 baht daily.
The new minimum wages effective January 1, 2024
Weerasak Kaewboonpun, the representative of the workers on the wage committee, also argued with the PM that the government do not have the authority to reconsider this arrangement.
“The Prime Minister has the right to criticize and express opinions, but this matter is related to labor protection laws that stipulate, ‘The Tripartite Committee independently considers wages,’ and should be free from interference or influence from other parties,” he said.
“It would be better if the Prime Minister discusses wages, he should take the time to think about how to reduce the prices of goods, water, electricity, and the cost of living, so that people with this income can live, and entrepreneurs can sustain their businesses,’ he added.
Weerasak states that as a worker, whether satisfaction is achieved with these numbers is still debatable. However, earning 400 baht per day would be quite good in the current economic situation. Despite the economic challenges faced by workers, it is important to consider the difficulties faced by employers as well.
Weerasak Kaewboonpun (center)
“Those who will benefit from the announced minimum wage adjustment, how many percent of them are genuine Thai workers? Currently, there are approximately 500,000 Thai workers, while more than 5 million are legal foreign workers entitled to these benefits. Meanwhile, the prices of various goods will increase in line with the rising wage rates, and more than 70 million Thais will bear this burden,”
The representative of the workers also said eariler that if employee demand a wage higher than what is reasonable, it will lead employers to replace human labor with machines. The impact will fall on the workers themselves. Let’s not forget that machines don’t demand holidays, sick leave, or salary increases.
“Therefore, we are in a situation where we can coexist well,” he said.
Attayudh Leeyawanich, the employers’ representative in the wage committee, explained that the current wage adjustment is aimed at providing entry-level workers with a living that is in line with the standard of living, current economic and social conditions and the capabilities of businesses in each local area.
“The 2 baht increase may seem small, especially in the southern border provinces where most provinces have seen an increase between 9-10 baht and a maximum of 16 baht, but employers themselves have to accept this to ensure the livelihood of their employees,” said Attayudh.
He emphasized that this minimum wage only applies to entry-level skilled workers. The specific figures for the minimum wage are the result of negotiations that employers in each province can accept.
A Chinese woman is being questioned at the Immigration Bureau headquarters in Bangkok on Dec. 8, 2023.
What is more dangerous than being an unaccompanied young Chinese woman and not feeling safe in the Nana nightlife district of Bangkok at 11.30pm? Answer: Doing a video clip to make such a remark and post it on TikTok, only to have Thai immigration police “inviting” you for a talk, declaring you are persona non grata, and blacklisting you.
This is what happened to Miss Wang (given name withheld), a twenty-something Chinese lady on Friday after she posted such video on Tuesday which went viral, partly due to the fact that the Thai press and most news commentators were outraged and politicians accused the woman of deliberately portraying Nana area on Sukhumvit Road, also known as Soi Nana by many Thais, to be a dangerous place where a single Asian woman could be dragged away (and possibly sexually assaulted) by foreign sex tourists or sexpats in the area.
These nationalistic Thais feel it was a deliberate attempt to undermine the “reputation” of tourism of Soi Nana. Please note that there is a less-popular, but more sober drinking hole near Chinatown called Soi Nana as well, while the one we are talking about here is Nana, or Soi Nana, on both sides of Sukhumvit Road, filled with scantily-clad Thai girls serving drinks at the bars and independent sex workers standing and waiting for foreign clients. Hooters, the American Restaurant and Sports Bar, also has a branch there.
They rightly argue that given the way Miss Wang (provocatively) dressed, she was bound to be mistaken as a sex worker looking for a customer. In the short video clip, the foreign men, including old white men, looked at her and they walked past. One asked her how she is “doing today,” although it was clearly late at night before Miss Wang waved her hands and said “sorry.”
Miss Wang then quickly passed a moral judgment that this street is very dangerous for young single Chinese women to come alone and “ninety nine percent of people walking on this street are not good people.”
As much as I understand that this is a cheap video clip meant to exaggerate and attract as many Chinese eyeballs as possible, I think how the Thai authorities reacted was disproportionate. Mind you, they blacklisted Miss Wang after they discovered she is not a tourist, but based in Thailand and was selling goods online from Bangkok.
Still, without that viral video clip, it is inconceivable that the Thai immigration police would even bother to find out who is Miss Wang.
It also reflects a belief by some Thais, including the authorities, that some foreigners, including Chinese, are bent on destroying Thai tourism reputation. (Miss Wang insisted on Friday that she had no intention of destroying the good name of Soi Nana.)
Let’s face it, Soi Nana, is largely a nightlife and sex district (which I have no problem with, BTW). Thus, it ia understandable if a young good-looking girl intentionally dressed as if she might be a sex worker and standing alone at 11.30pm would be attracting the interests of western and non-western sexpats, sex tourists, or just drunk tourists, or those who had a stick of weed.
This is what the authorities should be saying. They must come to term with the fact that you cannot stop people from not feeling safe or talking badly about Bangkok or Thailand. We do not need travel guidebooks and websites to warn that foreigners should not speak badly about Soi Nana as many have already warned foreign tourists to not speak badly about the Thai king.
Instead, more tourist police should patrol the area to make unaccompanied foreign women who dress like Miss Wang feel safe at 11.30pm. BTW, I’m not really aware of any recent, or not recent, reported sexual assault on Soi Nana.
As for Miss Wang’s quick judgement on TikTok that 99 percent of those walking around her are no good people, I will leave it for you to ponder as to how credible, or ludicrous, Miss Wang is.
But please, please, Thailand does not need to blacklist her.
A Chinese Coast Guard ship, left, uses its water cannons on a Philippine Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) vessel as it approaches Scarborough Shoal in the disputed South China Sea on Saturday Dec. 9, 2023. (Philippine Coast Guard via AP)
MANILA, Philippines (AP) — The Chinese coast guard targeted Philippine vessels with water cannon blasts Sunday and rammed one of them, causing damage and endangering Filipino crew members off a disputed shoal in the South China Sea, just a day after similar hostilities at another contested shoal, Philippine officials said.
The Philippines and its treaty ally, the United States, immediately condemned the latest confrontation near the Second Thomas Shoal, where two Philippine navy-operated supply boats and two Philippine coast guard escort ships had sailed to deliver food and other supplies to Filipino forces in a long-marooned navy ship that serves as a territorial outpost.
A Chinese Coast Guard ship uses water cannons on Philippine navy-operated supply boat M/L Kalayaan as it approaches Second Thomas Shoal, locally known as Ayungin Shoal, in the disputed South China Sea on Sunday Dec. 10, 2023. (Philippine Coast Guard via AP)
“We condemn, once again, China’s latest unprovoked acts of coercion and dangerous maneuvers against a legitimate and routine Philippine rotation and resupply mission to Ayungin Shoal that has put the lives of our people at risk,” a Philippine government task force that deals with the territorial disputes said in a statement, using the Filipino name for the shoal.
The Chinese coast guard’s high-pressure water cannon blasts disabled and severely damaged the engines of the Philippine supply boat M/L Kalayaan, which had to be towed back to the western Philippine province of Palawan, Philippine officials said, adding the action seriously endangered the lives of the crew.
One of two Philippine coast guard escort ships, the BRP Cabra, sustained damage to its mast due to the water cannon blast. Another supply boat was rammed by a Chinese coast guard ship but still managed to maneuver away and deliver supplies to Filipino marines at Second Thomas Shoal, they said.
The Chinese coast guard targeted Philippine vessels with water cannon blasts Sunday and rammed one of them, causing damage and endangering Filipino crew members off a disputed shoal in the South China Sea, just a day after similar hostilities at another contested shoal, Philippine officials said. (Philippine Coast Guard via AP)
Drone video footage and photographs issued by the Philippine coast guard show two Chinese coast guard ships separately blasting water cannons at close range at BRP Cabra and a smaller supply boat.
“The systematic and consistent manner in which the People’s Republic of China carries out these illegal and irresponsible actions puts into question and significant doubt the sincerity of its calls for peaceful dialogue,” it said. “We demand that China demonstrate that it is a responsible and trustworthy member of the international community.”
A Chinese Coast Guard ship, bottom, uses water cannon Philippine coast guard patrol ship, BRP Cabra in the disputed South China Sea on Sunday Dec. 10, 2023. (Philippine Coast Guard via AP)
The Chinese coast guard said it had “implemented controls in accordance with laws and regulations.” The statement gave no details about the measures taken but said the Philippines action “seriously infringed on China’s sovereignty.”
It also claimed a Philippine vessel ignored warnings and in violation of international navigation regulations made a sharp turn in an “unprofessional and dangerous manner” and intentionally collided with a Chinese coast guard ship, causing “scratching.”
“The responsibility lies entirely with the Philippine side,” the coast guard said.
Coast guard spokesperson Gan Yu described China’s actions as “reasonable, legal and professional,” and said such operations would continue unabated.
“We sternly warn the Philippines to immediately cease its infringing actions … and strictly control its provocations on the front line so as not to drop a stone on its own foot,” Gan was quoted as saying on the coast guard’s website.
China’s actions were strongly condemned by foreign diplomats in the Philippines, including the ambassadors from treaty partner the U.S., the European Union and Japan.
“The U.S. stands with the Philippines and partners in vehemently condemning the PRC’s repeated illegal and dangerous actions against vessels,” U.S. Ambassador MaryKay L. Carlson posted on X, formerly known as Twitter.
A Chinese Coast Guard ship, right, uses its water cannons on a Philippine Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) vessel as it approaches Scarborough Shoal in the disputed South China Sea on Saturday Dec. 9, 2023. (Philippine Coast Guard via AP)
China’s ships, which have surrounded the Philippine-occupied Second Thomas Shoal for years, have blocked Philippine coast guard and supply boats in a yearslong effort to take control of the hotly disputed atoll claimed by both nations.
China has rejected all international condemnation and attempts at legal intervention, including a 2016 ruling by a U.N.-backed arbitration tribunal that invalidated China’s claims, leaving them without any legal basis. China insists it has a legal right to “defend its sovereignty” in keeping with its claim to virtually the entire South China Sea, one of the world’s most crucial waterways for shipping and other maritime activities.
On Saturday, the Chinese coast guard and accompanying ships also trained water cannons at three Philippine fisheries vessels to prevent them from approaching Scarborough Shoal in the disputed waters off the northwestern Philippines.
That caused “significant damage” to the communication and navigation equipment of one of the three Philippine Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources vessel, Philippine officials said. They added that suspected militia vessels accompanying Chinese coast guard ships used a long-range acoustic device that could impair hearing, causing “severe temporary discomfort and incapacitation to some Filipino crew.”
In other high seas clashes this year, Chinese coast guard ships used a military-grade laser that caused Filipino crewmen temporary blindness and engaged in dangerous blocking and shadowing maneuvers that caused minor collisions, Philippines officials say.
More tensions loom.
“The Philippines will not be deterred from exercising our legal rights over our maritime zones,” the Philippine government task force said.
A flotilla of 40 civilian fishing boats, backed by Philippine coast guard escort ships, initially was en route Sunday to Second Thomas Shoal but decided to proceed first to two Philippine-occupied islets in the South China Sea to deliver Christmas food packs.
From there, organizers will reassess before the flotilla proceeds with a plan to sail along the vicinity of the Second Thomas Shoal, said one of the organizers, Rafaela David, who denounced the latest Chinese action.
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Associated Press reporter Christopher Bodeen in Taipei, Taiwan, contributed to this report.
BANGKOK – Jay Chou Carnival World Tour dives into a joyful carnival theme with well-designed visual effects that had fans embark on an auditory and visual fantasy journey.
In a momentous performance on December 8-9 at the Rajamangala National Stadium, Jay Chou, widely recognized as the King of Mandopop, shared his musical brilliance, marking a significant milestone as the first Mandopop artiste to take the stage at Thailand’s National Stadium.
The occasion transformed the renowned venue into a harmonious musical space, creating an unparalleled “carnival” of music that left fans deeply moved.
Returning to Thailand after an impressive 20-year hiatus, Jay Chou stirred excitement throughout the entire arena from the very beginning. The concert featured a captivating blend of new songs and choreography from his latest albums, complemented by thoughtfully designed program variations that maintained a cheerful atmosphere throughout.
The performance also included several less-frequented songs, adding an extra layer of charm to the concert’s brilliance. Jay Chou’s mastery of instruments such as the piano, guitar, and guzheng coupled with his charismatic dance moves contributed to the overall spectacle, infusing fresh energy into the “carnival” concert.
Jay Chou’s diverse musical repertoire, celebrated for its variety, was further enriched with the inclusion of several new songs from his latest album, “Greatest Works Of Art,” which was released last year. One notable addition was “Red Face Like Frost”, a Chinese-style composition where Jay Chou and his dancers presented a modern and harmonious dance style, offering a revitalizing interpretation of traditional Chinese elements.
Jay Chou’s dance expertise also extended beyond “Red Face Like Frost” to the new addition, “Bullfight”, where the fusion of basketball and dance captivated the audience. Jay Chou, adorned in specially designed cowboy athletic attire, executed skilful basketball moves and synchronized dance routines resulting in an enjoyable and visually stunning experience.
Throughout his illustrious career, Jay Chou has not only been a successful performer but also a prolific songwriter for other artistes. A dedicated segment of the concert celebrated these compositions, with Jay Chou’s interpretation breathing new life into each beloved song, bringing joy to pleasantly surprised fans.
The concert seamlessly blended classic songs with the latest tracks, and the meticulous visual effects left the more than 70,000-strong audience gently immersed in a top-notch audio-visual music “carnival.”
BANGKOK – The announcement of the results of the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA), which measures literacy in students every three years among the 81 member countries/economies, poses a significant challenge for the Thai government. The recent results indicate a decline in Thai students’ scores in reading, mathematics, and science.
PISA 2022 assessment involved approximately 690,000 students, considered representative of the 29 million 15-year-olds, and aims to provide information to guide education policy. The focus is on assessing students’ competencies in applying knowledge and skills in real-life situations rather than just following curriculum-based learning.
In Thailand, the Institute for the Promotion of Teaching Science and Technology (IPST) served as the national center, conducting exams in August 2022 with students from 279 schools, totaling 8,495 participants. The assessment included computer-based testing and online surveys for school administrators.
Thai students’ performance in all areas hit the lowest scores in the past 20 years since Thailand joined PISA in the early 2000s. Reports indicate that 43 percent of Thai students feel the impact of inadequate teaching due to insufficient teachers, and approximately 16 percent report low-quality teaching.
Internationally, Singaporean students outperformed others in mathematics, science, and reading in the PISA 2022 assessment. Thai students ranked fifth among ASEAN countries, trailing behind Singapore, Vietnam, Brunei, and Malaysia. Thailand’s average scores in mathematics, science, and reading (394, 409, and 379, respectively) were below the OECD average scores (472, 485, and 476).
In addition to the latest EF English Proficiency Index (EF EPI) survey, Thailand ranked 101 out of 113 non-native English-speaking countries and fell into the “very low proficiency” category with a score of only 416. The global average score is 502. In Asia, Thailand ranks 21 of 23, and in ASEAN, Thailand ranks 8 of 10.
These surveys and measurements indicate that Thai education is in a serious situation.
Surasak Pancharoenworrakul, Deputy Minister of Education, stated that global education systems faced challenges from the ongoing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic but for Thailand, the country also faced persistent inequalities and limited access to technology.
Surasak mentioned that Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin is concerned about the PISA results and has directed the Ministry of Education to address the issues. A National PISA Committee was established in October to improve results in the 2025 assessment, aiming for better performance than the 2018 ranking of 59th.
Suphattra Patiwisan, the Deputy Director-General of IPST, emphasized the need to promote analytical thinking in classrooms for the 2025 exam, focusing on scientific knowledge and global environmental issues. Efforts to enhance learning should begin in primary education.
Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt spoke about the education challenges, acknowledging that many Bangkok schools primarily cater to primary education, influencing the quality of students entering secondary education. He stressed the importance of addressing these issues to attract both domestic and international investments, as the quality of people is a significant factor.
