Mr. Khum Sopeak, 20, or Duang, is charged with jointly attempted to kill others using explosives unnecessarily in a city, village, or community.
PATHUM THANI – A shooting that occurred at a football friendly match between Cambodians at the 9 Up Arena, an artificial grass football field, in Khu Khot, Lam Luk Ka district, Pathum Thani province, on Monday caused panic among more than 200 Cambodians who were participating in the match.
Pol. Lt. Gen. Jirasant Kaewsaeng-eak, Commissioner of the Provincial Police Region 1, led a press conference announcing the arrest of two Cambodians: Mr. Khum Sopeak, 20, or Duang, and Mr. Heng Hach, who is in his 20s.
They were charged with possessing firearms and ammunition without a license, carrying firearms in a city, village, or public place without a license, and being a non-Thai national in the Kingdom without permission, or their permission has expired or been revoked.
A shooting that occurred at a football match between Cambodians at the 9 Up Arena, an artificial grass football field, in Khu Khot.
The first suspect, Duang, was also charged with “jointly attempted to kill others using explosives unnecessarily in a city, village, or community.”
Police from Khu Khot Police Station said that they were concerned that the suspects would flee the country, so they notified Immigration Police to block their escape. As a result, Immigration Police in Chanthaburi province arrested Duang at the Ban Laem permanent border crossing in Moo 4, Thep Ni Mitr sub-district, Pong Nam Ron district, Chanthaburi, while he was trying to flee through a natural channel.
At a press conference, Pol. Lt. Gen. Jirasant Kaewsaeng-eak, Commissioner of the Provincial Police Region 1, inspects evidence.
According to the police investigation, during the match, several men wearing football jerseys but not participating in the match ran onto the field with two guns. One of the men then fired several shots at the people around 200 participating in the football activity, causing them to flee in panic. The men then ran back to their motorcycles and drove away.
The police also found that the guns used in the crime were blank guns, which were purchased from the internet for 4,000 baht. They are still investigating the case to identify other suspects.
Police officers cordoned off the area where the shooting occurred in the football field on Dec. 11.
The manager of the stadium, Mr. Thanat Thanasatitporn, 38, filed a complaint demanding compensation for the damage caused by the shooting. Preliminary inspection found damage to the roof and steel beams at least in three places. He will need to discuss with the police about ways to prevent such incidents in the future, especially regarding firearms and other weapons.
PM Srettha Thavisin addresses a debt issue at a press conference on December 12, 2023. (Photo by Sompong Wanjapoh.)
BANGKOK – On Tuesday, December 12, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin addressed how the government plans to tackle the debt crisis that millions of Thais are facing. He classified the debtors into four groups.
1) Debtors who became indebted during the COVID-19 pandemic. Srettha said this group of people who are no longer able to service the debt will be granted temporary debt moratorium so they can eventually start repayment.
The PM added he wants to help these people, numbering around 1.1 million individuals and SME companies, with the help of government savings bank and the government’s bank for agriculture and cooperative.
2) Those with regular income but can no longer able to service the debt. Srettha subdivided the group into two: school teachers and education staff numbering around 900,000 may seek help from Government Savings Bank by transferring the debt to the bank and to have the bank automatically deduct their salary at serviceable amount monthly but with at least 30 percent of their government salary remaining each month.
The second sub group are education staff and teachers who owed credit cards. Srettha said the debt reservice will be extended to 10-year period with interest rates reduced from 16-25 percent per annum to 3-5 percent.
Prime Ministe Srettha Thavisin and Chief Advisor to the Prime Minister Kittiratt Na-Ranong explain in details how the government will tackle debts facing millions of Thais. (Photo by Sompong Wanjapoh.)
3) The third group are those who earn irregular income such as farmers, those who made installation-based loan repayment and unable to honour the agreement and those taken government’s education loans. These people will be offered temporary debt moratorium, reduced interests rates and reduced minimum monthly debt payment so they can resume debt payments.
Srettha stated that 1.5 million farmers are already part of the government’s three-year debt moratorium. Also, 2.3 million people who borrowed money from the government to further their education will also benefit from the relief scheme.
4) The fourth group are those who have bad debt with government financial institutions and private assets management companies. The PM said three million people belonging to the group will be assisted through debt restructuring.
The PM added the Bank of Thailand will remind private financial institutions and banks to restructure the debt of those with persistent debt payment problem so they can start repayment. This, he added, can be done by keeping interest rate no more than 15 percent per year with the aim of clearing the debt within five years.
As for loan sharks, the PM said a crackdown would be launched against them after he announced the plan to solve the loan shark problem and declared that it was a “national agenda.”
“For me, the loan shark is modern-world slavery. This is the ‘new world slavery’ that robs people of their freedom and their dreams. This problem is too big to solve without the government as a middleman. We need to work with many sectors today: government officials, the police, and the Ministry of Finance to prevent people from falling into the same snare again,” he stated on November 28.
CP Foods ranked first in the 2023 DJSI Index, upholding the leading global sustainable company in the food products sector.
Charoen Pokphand Foods Public Company Limited (CP Foods) reaffirms its status as a global leader in sustainability, securing the top rank in the food products sector of the Dow Jones Sustainability Index (DJSI). Endorsed by S&P Global, the DJSI is acclaimed as the global standard for corporate sustainability performance benchmarks.
CP Foods celebrates its ninth consecutive year in the Emerging Markets category, reflecting its unwavering commitment to sustainable practices. The company is steadfast in its dedication to food security and the protection of human rights, operating with a rigorous adherence to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles.
Prasit Boondoungprasert, CEO of CP Foods, highlighted the company’s commitment to sustainability, which is manifested in it adherence to human rights across its entire value chain. This commitment extends from farmers and business partners to shareholders, investors, employees, and local communities.
CP Foods serves as a beacon of innovation, continually advancing the development of nutritious and healthy food products through integration of advanced technologies and efficient resource utilization. Embracing a circular economy model, the company operates business under the strategic ‘Climate People and Food Security’ framework, ensuring food security during both stable times and crises.
“CP Foods envisions being recognized as the “Sustainable Kitchen of the World,” stated Mr. Prasit. The company embraces the sufficiency economy philosophy and is guided by the CP Group’s “3 benefits” principle, inspired by Dhanin Chearavanont, CP Group’s Senior Chairman. This approach focuses on the benefits of the country, people, and the company itself, propelling CP Foods in its mission to supply high-quality, safe, nutritious, and flavorful food to consumers globally.
The company is also committed to elevating food safety standards by innovating and integrating advanced technologies throughout its production chain, from animal feed and farming to food processing. CP Foods has launched the pioneering ‘Thai Food: Mission to Space’ project, aiming to achieve space-level food safety standards, marking a significant first for Thai food products.
Additionally, CP Foods is well-equipped to navigate transitions across all facets of its operations in response to the rapidly evolving landscape and forthcoming challenges. This preparation encompasses thorough organizational risk management, adherence to regulations, cybersecurity, responsible procurement practices, and the promotion of biodiversity.
The company’s human resources strategies are designed to cultivate a culture of engagement, expertise, and adaptability among its workforce, with a steadfast commitment to fairness, equality, and embracing diversity and inclusion.
CP Foods operates in 17 countries and exports food to over 40 countries, reaching more than 4,000 million people. The company’s goal is to achieve Net-Zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, being the first food producer to have its emission reduction targets, both short-term and long-term, scientifically validated and aligned with the Forest, Land, and Agriculture Guidance (FLAG) from The Science-Based Targets Initiative (SBTi).
As a Dow Jones Sustainability Index member for nine consecutive years, CP Foods has demonstrated its effectiveness in sustainable business practices, excelling in corporate governance, economic performance, environmental stewardship, and social responsibility.
The company aspires to create sustainable value for the long term, growing steadily alongside all stakeholders, guided by its vision of being the sustainable “Kitchen of the World.”
The three orangutans will be transported on December 21 from Suvarnabhumi Airport to Indonesia.
BANGKOK – A baby orangutan couple named after two Japanese Doraemon characters has been living in Thailand since 2016 after getting help from cops in Bangkok. Nobita and Shizuka will now be sent back to Indonesia, where they are from.
On December 12, 2023, Narin Pratuanchai, Deputy Director General from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, announced the return of three Sumatran orangutans, including Nobita and Shisuka, involved in an international wildlife trafficking case, to Indonesia.
The decision follows discussions between Thai and Indonesian authorities. The orangutans will be transported on Garuda Indonesia Airline flight GA867 on December 21 from Suvarnabhumi Airport. Indonesia will bear the expenses, including health checks.
The two orangutans made headlines just before Christmas 2016, when they were found clinging to each other in a box in the back of a taxi.
Freeland, an animal rescue group, told police about it by pretending to be a buyer on Facebook with a $US3,000 deposit.
The cab driver was detained but soon freed. There have been no charges filed.
“This is a well-oiled, well-organized criminal gang.” “It’s mafia behind it,” claimed Edwin Wiek, founder of Thailand’s Wildlife Friends Foundation.
Nobita and Shisuka were found clinging to each other in a box in the back of a taxi in 2006.FILE – Nobita and Shizuka were still at the Thai government facility in 2019, three years after their seizure. (Photo courtesy of Edwin Wiek)
According to Prasert Sornsathapornkul, Division of Wild Fauna and Flora Protection Director, Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, Nobita and Shizuka are now 7 years old. Nobita, a male, weighs 26 kg and Shizuka, a female, weighs 20 kg.
The two have been under the care of the Khao Pratap Chang Wildlife Breeding Centre in Ratchaburi since 2016. Another orangutan who will be sent to Indonesia is named Brian, a 4-year-old male weighing 23 kg. He has also been in charge of this location since 2019.
Brian
The Central Institute of Forensic Science has analyzed the DNA of all three orangutans, confirming that they belong to the Sumatran orangutan species (Pongo abelii). Additionally, health registrations and samples have been collected to test for diseases, with all results coming back negative. This ensures their readiness for the return journey.
The operation to return these orangutans marks the fifth time, with a total of 71 individuals sent back since 2006. The most recent prior case involved sending two orangutans, Unga-Inga and Natateli, back to Indonesia on December 17, 2020.
C.P. Group and Toyota/Commercial Japan Partnership Technologies achieved new milestones towards decarbonization with multi-faceted solutions across energy, data and mobility
A joint partnership by Charoen Pokphand Group (C.P. Group), Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) and Commercial Japan Partnership Technologies (CJPT) announced the successful pilot project for biogas-derived hydrogen production in Thailand.
C.P. Group plans to use such biogas-derived hydrogen for their truck fleet for long-haul logistics for its supply chains, further accelerating Thailand’s decarbonization process.
Successful test of new drone technology designed for agriculture use at scale
Adoption of smart logistics and date to drive efficiencies in fleet management
During the COP28 UN Climate Change Conference hosted in Dubai, UAE, Charoen Pokphand Group Co., Ltd. (C.P. Group), along with Toyota Motor Corporation (Toyota), and Commercial Japan Partnership Technologies (CJPT) announced progress in their pilot project to produce one of Thailand’s first bio-hydrogen supply of an initial volume of 2kg/day. The Thai-Japanese partnership announced that they have completed their first trial of using poultry waste to produce bio-hydrogen, marking an important milestone in their journey towards decarbonizing the transportation sector.
Backed by state-of-the-art equipment, biogas derived from poultry waste provided by C.P. Group’s farms is used to produce the bio-hydrogen. This collaborative effort demonstrates C.P. Group and Toyota/CJPT’s commitment to innovation and dedication to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. As part of this initiative, Toyota has also established Thailand’s first Biogas-Derived Hydrogen Production Equipment at its Asia headquarters in Samut Prakan province, south of Bangkok.
To showcase the potential of bio-hydrogen as a clean energy source, the team will now embark on its next phase to trial the fuel for long-haul transportation. This trial will test the viability and performance of bio-hydrogen as an alternative energy source for the transportation sector. Together, the companies hope to eventually adopt bio-hydrogen for C.P. Group’s long-haul logistics, including the powering of delivery trucks for parts of its operations in Thailand.
Speaking at the Thailand Pavilion at the COP28 UN Climate Change Conference in Dubai, C.P. Group Chairman Soopakij Chearavanont shared, “We are all in a race against climate change. COP28 presents a great opportunity for us all to come together, share ideas, and find innovative solutions. It is a privilege to unite with Toyota and Commercial Japan Partnership Technologies Corporation to find revolutionary renewable energy solutions and pioneering approaches. Together, we aspire to create a world where sustainability becomes a way of life.”
Bio-hydrogen has the potential to play a significant role in Thailand’s decarbonization journey, and in addition to poultry waste to biogas, the partnership is also exploring broader mobility solutions, and is pleased to announce the successful completion of a second test project into the role that drones can play in supporting agriculture in Thailand. Toyota created a fuel cell powered drone that has successfully been used across a number of CP farms in support of seeding, the fertilization of crops as well as other agricultural tasks.
Masahiko Maeda, CEO of Asia Region of Toyota Motor Corporation noted, “I am excited to see actual implementation progress with C.P. Group. We are achieving good results for CO2 reduction and considering how we can contribute further to the happiness of the 67 million Thai citizens under the concept of “doing what can be done now”, together with partners who share the same view. With the country’s agriculture resources combined with the extensive and strong value chain of C.P. Group along with Toyota/CJPT’s mobility business expertise, Thailand’s first trial for producing hydrogen from poultry farm’s biogas can be utilized for greener logistics. We would like to expand the scope of our collaboration to promote initiatives for carbon neutrality suited to Thailand in the three areas of energy, data and mobility.”
C.P. Group, through its subsidiaries, operates a large fleet of commercial vehicles. The partnership is actively exploring how different types of electric vehicles, including HEVs (hybrid electric), BEVs (battery electric) and FCEVs (fuel cell electric), can be optimized for both urban logistics and agricultural transportation, as well as how data can be effectively used to optimize loading processes and route planning to minimize fuel consumption and emissions associated with transportation.
C.P. Group Member of Executive Committee, Kachorn Chiaravanont said, “C.P. Group and Toyota have shared a common interest since the start of our relationship 25 years ago to support decarbonisation. We are excited about investing in new technologies and are ambitious in our combined ambition to find new ways to support the energy transition, for Thailand. Our aim is to explore the potential of producing, transporting and using bio-gas hydrogen across C.P. Group’s business, starting with trials in some of Thailand’s special economic zones and then deploying at scale in due time. We invite more partners and communities to join us in our mission and journey.”
By combining their expertise and resources, Charoen Pokphand Group, Toyota Motor Corporation, and Commercial Japan Partnership Technologies are committed to driving positive change and contributing to a more sustainable future.
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.
