Palestinians look for survivors under the rubble of a destroyed building following an Israeli airstrike in Khan Younis refugee camp, southern Gaza Strip, Monday, Nov. 6, 2023. (AP Photo/Mohammed Dahman)
BANGKOK — Thailand’s government has photographs of Thai workers who are being held hostage in Gaza by Hamas following its October 7 attack on Israel, showing they are alive, the prime minister said Monday.
Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin did not say how many hostages the photos showed. The Thai government’s official number of “abductions” is 24. Thirty-four Thais are known to have been killed and 19 injured.
“There is an update that there are photos of the hostages. So, we understand that at least they are still alive. The negotiation efforts are still ongoing,” Srettha told reporters.
Thailand is pursuing several channels to obtain the release of the hostages, including a trip last week by Foreign Minister Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara to Egypt and Qatar.
Almost 8,000 Thai workers have returned home from Israel out of a pre-attack total of around 30,000. Most are employed as semi-skilled farm laborers who come from poorer regions of Thailand and are able to earn a much better income by working abroad.
Palestinians look for survivors of the Israeli bombardment in the Maghazi refugee camp in the Gaza Strip on Sunday, Nov. 5, 2023. (AP Photo/Hatem Moussa)
DEIR AL-BALAH, Gaza Strip (AP) — Israeli forces severed North Gaza from the rest of the besieged territory and pounded it with intense airstrikes overnight into Monday, setting the stage for an expected push into the dense confines of Gaza City and an even bloodier phase of the month-old war.
Already, the Palestinian death toll passed 10,000, the Health Ministry in Hamas-run Gaza said Monday. The ministry does not distinguish between fighters and civilians. Some 1,400 Israelis have died, mostly civilians killed in the Oct. 7 incursion by Hamas that started the war.
The figures mark a grim milestone in what has quickly become the deadliest round of Israeli-Palestinian violence since Israel’s establishment 75 years ago, with no end in sight as Israel vows to remove Hamas from power and crush its military capabilities.
Fire and smoke rises from buildings following Israeli airstrikes on Gaza City, Sunday, Nov. 5, 2023. (AP Photo/Abed Khaled)
Casualties are only likely to rise as the war turns to close urban combat. Troops are expected to enter Gaza City soon, Israeli media reported, and Palestinian militants who have had years to prepare are likely to fight street by street, launching ambushes from a vast network of tunnels.
“We’re closing in on them,” said Lt. Col. Richard Hecht, an Israeli military spokesman. “We’ve completed our encirclement, separating Hamas strongholds in the north from the south.”
The military said it struck 450 targets overnight and ground troops took over a Hamas compound. A one-way corridor for residents to flee south remains available for the hundreds of thousands of Palestinians who remain in Gaza City and other parts of the north, according to the military.
Some 1.5 million Palestinians, or around 70% of Gaza’s population, have fled their homes since the war began. Food, medicine, fuel and water are running low, and U.N.-run schools-turned-shelters are beyond capacity. Many people are sleeping on the streets outside.
Mobile phone and internet service went down overnight, the third territory-wide outage since the start of the war, but was gradually restored on Monday. Aid workers say the outages make it even harder for civilians to seek safety or call ambulances.
Samir Ayoub, uncle of three children who were killed by an Israeli airstrike, puts flowers on their car in the town of Ainata, a Lebanese border village with Israel in south Lebanon, Monday, Nov. 6, 2023. (AP Photo/Mohammed Zaatari)
Israel has so far rejected U.S. suggestions for a pause in fighting to facilitate humanitarian aid deliveries and the release of some of the estimated 240 hostages seized by Hamas in its raid. Israel has also dismissed calls for a broader cease-fire from increasingly alarmed Arab countries — including Jordan and Egypt, which made peace with it decades ago.
After days of intense diplomacy around the Middle East, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken wrapped up his tour of the region on Monday, saying efforts to secure a humanitarian pause, negotiate the release of hostages and plan for a post-Hamas Gaza were still “a work in progress” without pointing to any concrete achievements.
The war has also stoked wider tensions, with Israel and Lebanon’s Hezbollah militant group trading fire along the border. In another sign of growing unrest, a Palestinian man stabbed and wounded two members of Israel’s paramilitary Border Police in east Jerusalem before being shot dead, according to police and an Associated Press reporter at the scene.
Israel captured east Jerusalem, along with Gaza and the West Bank, in the 1967 Mideast war. The Palestinians want all three territories for a future state. Israel annexed east Jerusalem in a move not recognized by most of the international community and considers the entire city its capital.
In northern Gaza, a Jordanian military cargo plane air-dropped medical aid to a field hospital, King Abdullah II said early Monday. It appeared to be the first such airdrop of the war, raising the possibility of another avenue for aid delivery besides Egypt’s Rafah crossing, which has so far been the only entry point.
Israeli Iron Dome air defense system fires to intercept a rocket fired from the Gaza Strip, in central Israel, Sunday, Nov. 5, 2023. (AP Photo/Oded Balilty)
Over 450 trucks carrying aid have been allowed to enter Gaza from Egypt since Oct. 21. But humanitarian workers say the aid that has come through the Rafah crossing is insufficient to meet mounting needs in the territory, which is home to some 2.3 million Palestinians.
The crossing was closed on Saturday and Sunday because of a dispute among Israel, Egypt and Hamas. But it reopened Monday for the evacuation of patients and foreign passport holders, according to Wael Abu Omar, a spokesman for the Palestinian Crossings Authority.
Northern Gaza is facing a severe water shortage, as there is no fuel to pump from municipal wells and Israel shut off the region’s main line. The U.N. office for humanitarian affairs said seven water facilities across Gaza were struck over the last two days and sustained “major damage,” raising the risk of sewage flooding. Israel has restored two water pipelines in central and southern Gaza, the U.N. said.
Some 800,000 people have heeded Israeli military orders to flee to southern Gaza. Some 2,000 people, many carrying only what they could hold in their arms, walked down Gaza’s main north-south highway on Sunday. “The children saw tanks for the first time. Oh world, have mercy on us,” said one Palestinian man, who declined to give his name.
But Israeli bombardments have continued across the territory, and strikes in central and southern Gaza — the purported safe zone — killed dozens of people on Sunday. Israel blames civilian casualties on Hamas, accusing the militants of operating in residential neighborhoods.
After another strike Monday, in the southern town of Khan Younis, men dug through the rubble with sledgehammers and their bare hands. A young boy caked in dust screamed as he was rolled onto a stretcher and carried away. At least two people were killed, according to an AP reporter at the scene.
Earlier Monday, Palestinians held a mass funeral for 66 people outside a hospital in the central town of Deir al-Balah. The bodies were wrapped in white sheets on the ground outside the hospital morgue. A man with bandages wrapped around his head placed his hand on a child’s body and wept.
The Health Ministry said that 10,022 people have been killed in Gaza, including over 4,100 children and 2,600 women.
Palestinians inspect the damage of a destroyed house following an Israeli airstrike in Jabaliya refugee camp, on the outskirts of Gaza City, Sunday, Nov. 5, 2023. (AP Photo/Mohammed Alaswad)
Meanwhile, four civilians were killed by an Israeli airstrike on a vehicle in south Lebanon late Sunday, including three children, a local civil defense official and state-run media reported. The Israeli military said it was reviewing the strike, after initially saying it had struck Hezbollah targets following anti-tank fire that killed an Israeli civilian. Hezbollah said it fired Grad rockets into Israel in response.
In the overnight strikes in Gaza, the Israeli military said it had killed a senior Hamas militant, identified as Jamal Mussa, who had allegedly carried out a shooting attack against Israeli soldiers in Gaza in 1993.
It said 30 Israeli troops have been killed since the ground offensive began over a week ago. Hamas and other militants have continued firing rockets into Israel, disrupting daily life even as most are intercepted or fall in open areas. Tens of thousands of Israelis have evacuated from communities near the volatile borders with Gaza and Lebanon.
Thai Smile, a domestic subsidiary of Thai Airways established in 2011, will cease operations and transfer all its activities and staff to an internal company in January 2024.
Chai Eiam-siri, the CEO of Thai Airways, announced the restructuring plan. Currently, 20 Airbus A320s are being taken over from Thai Smile, which were mainly used on domestic and international short-haul routes. There are also plans to bring Thai Smile’s employees under the Thai Airways umbrella. This transition is expected to be completed by January 2024.
So far, 4 aircraft have already been handed over. The process of returning 20 aircraft to Thai Airway begins with the airline notifying the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) and the Ministry of Transport.
Once the 20 aircraft have been returned, the Air Operator’s Licence (AOL) must be cancelled. This measure will lead to the end of the WE Airline Code for Thai Smile. In addition, Thai Smile’s licence will expire in January 2024.
This change will reduce Thai Airways’ average daily aircraft utilisation from 12-13 hours to 11 hours per day, which is still higher than Thai Smile’s average of 9 hours per day. This change is expected to reduce Thai Airways’ hourly operating costs by approximately 20 percent.
Chai Eiam-siri, the CEO of Thai Airways
Mr Chai mentioned that the employees of Thai Smile will have to work under Thai Airways. Thai Smile’s pilots and crew will continue to use Airbus A320 aircraft and operate both domestic and international routes under the airline’s TG code. Thai Airways will expand its service on all routes previously operated by Thai Smile.
As far as the name “Thai Smile Airways” is concerned, it is currently assumed that it will remain registered as an independent company. Thai Airways sees opportunities to utilize Thai Smile for other aviation related businesses.
“You have dreamt for the best, now it’s time to make it yours.”
The Condominium delivers an exceptional experience by seamlessly blending Swiss concepts with Thai elements, with a commitment to enhancing residents’ quality of life through the integration of cutting-edge technology.
Developed by the founding family of Bangkok Patana School, Park85 Residences is an exquisite ultimate luxury condominium situated in the prime location of Sukhumvit 85, conveniently linked to Bangkok’s CBDs. The property – located at the quiet end of 2 lanes – offers urban connectivity while preserving a tranquil atmosphere and draws inspiration from Swiss ethos to create a living space dedicated to enhancing the quality of life.
Designed by the renowned architectural firm Duangrit Bunnag (DBALP), Park85 Residences is destined to pursue an unparalleled quality of life for its residents. Employing world-class technology, the design aims to provide a distinctive and exclusive experience, catering to the lifestyle needs of those seeking an exceptional and one-of-a-kind way of living.
Fiona Rodel, a member of the third generation of the founding family of Bangkok Patana School and the project manager for Park85 Residences under Fander Helvetic Thai Limited, has disclosed that Park85 Residences is an extraordinary ultimate-luxury low-rise freehold condominium. It comprises two buildings, each rising to a height of seven floors and featuring a total of 47 units. The development is designed to provide residents with matchless privacy and a unique living experience, fostering a community that meets the needs of both small and large families. Park85 Residences is driven by the mission of enhancing the quality of life by seamlessly blending the best of both Western and Eastern cultures. This fusion mirrors the identity of its Thai-Swiss project manager, whose family heritage has embraced Thai culture across generations.
An essential highlight of the property is its prime location, situated at the connecting point of Sukhumvit Soi 85 and 87. This offers exceptional convenience for commuting, with easy access to major expressway entrances and exits, including those on Sukhumvit 50 and Sukhumvit 62. Additionally, it is in close proximity to BTS Bang Chak and BTS On Nut stations. Furthermore, the development is ideally located near prominent educational institutions and renowned international schools such as Wells, Bangkok Prep, St. Andrews and Bangkok Patana. It is also conveniently close to Samitivej, Sukhumvit and Ruamjairak Hospitals and the prestigious golf courses along Bangna Trat Road like Thai Country Club, among others.
Park85 Residence offers MORE for Life through 3 pillars:
More SPACE for Life.
This focus on spaciousness ensures enhanced convenience and superior comfort, catering to the well-being of residents of all ages and accommodating both small and large families. The design of the unit sizes on each floor is thoughtfully crafted to offer a diverse range of room styles, allowing for a mix of characteristics. This design also prioritizes high levels of privacy, providing options ranging from spacious 1-bedroom units to luxurious penthouses. Moreover, every unit features a walkout terrace extending from both the bedroom and living room, connecting residents with the natural surroundings.
Among the array of unique amenities, Park85 Residences offers private underground storage units inspired by the Swiss tradition of having a dedicated storage area in the basement of homes. These storage rooms are equipped with air conditioning and an energy recovery ventilation system to maintain an optimal temperature, making them perfect for storing large sports equipment, luggage, and other items that require a specific storage environment. It can even be used as a hobby room.
Furthermore, another exceptional feature is the wine & whiskey cellar, which adhere to high standards and can accommodate 50 bottles or more per locker. In addition to these features, Park85 Residences also offers convenient bicycle parking with the Velopa AG bicycle parking system imported from Switzerland, as well as a designated car washing area, ensuring that residents’ special vehicles are well taken care of.
Moreover the project offers following features like ample Co-Working Space and a practical Delivery Drop-off Room next to the reception.
More QUALITY for Life.
The second pillar places an emphasis on cultivating a high standard of living and enduring happiness for residents. This commitment is manifest in the thinking and design of every aspect of living within the property, incorporating world-class innovation to respond to the lifestyles of every modern family.
The project has obtained certification from the Thailand Institute of Nuclear Technology (Public Organization), ensuring a very low value of soil radon gas at the property, a major carcinogen that can be present in the air due to its release from ground-level sources. Moreover the project will be offering an advanced built-in air exchange system, which will ensure a constant flow of clean & fresh air for all units.
In addition, the property offers a unique option for residents seeking a peaceful escape in the form of “Digital Detox”, enabling them to enjoy restful sleep without concerns about interference from electromagnetic radiation (electric and magnetic fields or EMF), which can result from portable devices, household appliances, and various electrical equipment within the home.
Moreover the project offers following features like Flood Protection, High-end Kitchen and Luxury European Lavatories.
More LOVE for Life.
The third pillar stems from the unique fusion of Thai and Swiss cultures, resulting in something truly exceptional. At Park85 Residences, there is a strong emphasis on fostering a sense of community that reflects the ambiance of a park. This “Park” concept encourages families and friends to come together, relax, live, and relish the beauty of nature, even within the bustling city environment.
To further support this, the project includes a versatile multi-purpose space designed for pets, allowing both pets and their owners to spend time together. In addition to placing a strong emphasis on extensive green spaces, Park85 has installed solar panels on the roof. These panels harness renewable energy from the sun and channel it into powering the common areas within the property.
Moreover, Park85 Residences caters to a multitude of needs by providing spacious community areas, ensuring wheelchair accessibility throughout the development, preserving a historic 150-year-old stone fountain from Switzerland, and offering ample EV charging stations that accommodate cars, motorcycles, and bicycles. Notably, it features probably the largest in-pool tree in Bangkok as well.
Join us in discovering a residence where your health and happiness are not just priorities; they’re the cornerstones of our community. Welcome to a life of elevated living, where your well-being is our unwavering commitment.
Or as Fiona tends to say: “Welcome to the place we call Home. A place where you belong”
Nalinrat Chareonsuphong, managing director of Nexus Property Marketing Company Limited, which serves as the marketing and sales consultant for the Park85 Residences project, shared insights into the development. Nexus has been actively involved in this project for the past four years. Its distinctive quality in attention to detail and the unique blend of Swiss precision and an understanding of the Thai context.
This combination has given rise to an ultimate-luxury development that stands apart, with a clearly defined selling point and target customers in mind. The project is thoughtfully crafted to genuinely meet the needs of this consumer demographic, encompassing technology, functional living spaces, and a range of project amenities. It is firmly believed that Park85 Residences will open a new dimension of luxury, truly setting it apart as an unparalleled living experience.
In the super luxury condominium market in the Sukhumvit area this year, there is a noticeable trend of continuous development by project developers who are consistently introducing new projects to the market.
These developers are competing in terms of project quality and selecting highly attractive locations as their primary selling points. It is also found that the current demand in the super luxury condominium market in the Sukhumvit area primarily stems from buyers who are looking for properties to live in, and this group includes both Thai and foreign individuals. In this segment, the average price per square meter typically exceeds 290,000 baht, with unit prices surpassing 20 million baht.
“The intriguing aspect of the Sukhumvit 85 location is its peaceful and residential-friendly nature. Despite its tranquil atmosphere, it enjoys the convenience of expressway and electric train connections, enabling easy travel to different areas of Bangkok. Additionally, its proximity to educational institutions and nearby residential communities, as well as popular social hubs like Thonglor and Ekkamai, makes it an ideal location,” said Nalinrat.
The initiative of the ‘Zero Starving Sea Turtles’ project persuaded people to take it with two siblings whose hearts are full of desire to save this endangered species.
The key objective of the project is to increase the survival rate of sea turtles and restore the balance of the undersea food web.
In an era when the world is fully equipped with technological advancements in most aspects of daily life, people are becoming increasingly distant and, at times, oblivious to nature, forests, wild animals, and sea creatures.
Furthermore, rapid economic development is causing harm and posing threats to animal lives, resulting in declining populations and the extinction of some species. Younger generations are leaning towards materialism and urbanization, often displaying less awareness of and appreciation for nature and their surroundings.
Presently, numerous environmental campaigns are underway, aiming to rekindle and nurture love for nature. One such initiative is the “Zero Starving Sea Turtles” project led by the siblings of Mr. Arin Thongtang (In) and Miss. Arisa Thongtang (Aim), who are filled with a passion for conserving endangered sea turtles.
Their fundraising project focuses on nurturing sea turtle hatchlings to increase the survival rate of baby sea turtles, raising it from a mere 0.1% when these hatchlings are left in their natural environment to a remarkable 70% if they are nurtured to reach a weight of no less than 2kgs and a minimum length of 1 foot before being returned to the ocean.
Mr. Arin Thongtang (In) and Miss. Arisa Thongtang (Aim) revealed their deep affinity for reptiles. They have raised tortoises and freshwater turtles, even constructing ponds at home to nurture them. In December 2022, they had the opportunity to visit the Koh Man Nai Sea Turtle Conservation Center with their family and friends, gaining invaluable insights into the challenges faced by sea turtles and the center’s commendable efforts.
This sanctuary has nurtured tens of thousands of hatchlings and provided care and rehabilitation for injured turtles, with its initiation dating back to the Queen of the Ninth Reign in 1975. This experience ignited within them the desire to initiate public awareness, fostering change, and enlightening others about these magnificent creatures. Their aim is to transform their personal passion for animal care into a purposeful contribution to society and the environment.
Mr. Arin Thongtang (In) and Miss. Arisa Thongtang (Aim) are fascinated by the fact that sea turtles have been in this world for ages and have managed to adapt and survive until today. They are companions to dinosaurs, which became extinct about 110 million years ago. Additionally, sea turtles play a crucial role in maintaining marine food chains and ecosystems. They are recognized as ecological keystone species that provide habitat for other marine life, thus contributing to biodiversity.
As herbivores, they regulate seagrass and algae, which, in turn, benefits coral reefs. The declining sea turtle populations have far-reaching consequences for the marine environment, including disrupted water flow and increased seagrass blocking sunlight. This, in turn, triggers issues like soil erosion, excessive growth of microorganisms, and imbalanced ecosystems. The absence of sea turtles also poses challenges for both predator and prey populations.
Mr. Arin Thongtang (In) and Miss. Arisa Thongtang (Aim) had the opportunity to meet with Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, Pol. Gen. Patcharawat Wongsuwan, to introduce their project. The Minister praised them for initiating this well-aware project, which reflects their proactive commitment to society and the environment.
Although the project may seem relatively small in size, it serves as a crucial stepping stone for the youth to take a lead, take action, and conscientiously care for the world around them. The younger generation will play an important role in the restoration of the environment and its resources.
These wholehearted siblings would like the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment to take charge of increasing awareness, understanding, and knowledge about how to care for sea turtles. Many people mistakenly believe that releasing baby sea turtles, as small as 10-baht coins, into the sea is a good deed.
However, in reality, these tiny sea turtles are unlikely to survive, as they will be overwhelmed by their natural predators. Therefore, the objective of the “Zero Starving Sea Turtles” project is to seek funding to nurture sea turtle hatchlings until they reach a weight of at least 2kg and a minimum length of 1 foot, which takes approximately around 200 days of nurturing before releasing them back into the wild.
The target fundraising for this project is set at 600,000 baht, assuming a minimum expense associated with nurturing sea turtle hatchlings is 6,000 baht each, which equates to 30 baht per day. Over the course of a day, the dietary regimen includes breakfast, featuring fresh or pellet-based nutrition, amounting to approximately 10 baht per serving. For the midday meal, a selection of fresh vegetables like Chinese kale is provided.
These items are both easily procurable and capable of prolonged storage, collectively incurring an average cost of about 10 baht, with an additional 10 baht for medical expenses, culminating in a total of 30 baht per day. Their intention is to set an objective aimed at collaboratively raising funds to cover the expenses associated with nurturing food for 100 sea turtle hatchlings.
The event of the year was set to celebrate the release of the ‘H! LIST 2023’ magazine and honor celebrities who are devoted to serving society.
HELLO! Magazine Thailand hosts the grandest charity dinner of the year, titled “H! LIST 2023: ‘The Glamor of Nature’ Charity Dinner,” in celebration of the release of the special edition magazine ‘H! LIST 2023,’ which features the names of over 600 prominent figures in social circles.
The dinner also featured the presentation of the HELLO! Sustainability Awards and art auctions aimed at raising funds for The Mae Fah Luang Foundation under Royal Patronage, all within a joyous atmosphere filled with the beaming smiles of numerous distinguished guests in attendance.
During the event that took place in the Magnolia Ballroom at the Waldorf Astoria Bangkok on the evening of October 27, Björn Rettig, Chief Executive Officer of BurdaLuxury Asia and India, Kessuda Marawichai, Editor-in-Chief of HELLO! Magazine Thailand, and Ploydee Chantarasomboon, the magazine’s Social Director, extended a warm welcome to the esteemed guests.
Kessuda Marawichai, Editor-in-Chief of HELLO! Magazine Thailand, expressed, “HELLO! Magazine is dedicated to featuring individuals within the social sphere. As a result, we gather information about a wide range of people, creating a ‘People Community’ under one platform. This is the essence of H! LIST, which is now celebrating its 5th year.”
She continued, “Furthermore, over the years, HELLO! Magazine has remained committed to sustainability, emphasizing that regardless of the industry or business sector one belongs to, it is vital to prioritize, support, dedicate efforts, and generate lasting, sustainable benefits for society in every domain, including the luxury industry. As a result, we organized an event with the theme ‘The Glamor of Nature’ and presented the HELLO! Sustainability Awards to individuals who have wholeheartedly committed themselves to fostering, advocating, and extending benefits to the public through sustainable practices. The recipients of this award are individuals who serve as inspirational figures, continuously sharing goodwill and contributing to society.”
The HELLO! Sustainability Awards is a prestigious recognition bestowed upon individuals who have demonstrated unwavering dedication to society by consistently delivering benefits to the public within the three key sustainability frameworks: the environment, society, and the economy.
The recipients of this award include esteemed individuals such as Buntoeng Vongkusolkit, Chairman of Mitr Phol Group, Thiraphong Chansiri, President and Chief Executive Officer Thai Union Group Public Company Limited, Wallapa Traisorat, Chief Executive Officer and President of Asset World Corp Public Company Limited, Piti Bhirombhakdi, Senior Executive Vice President at Boon Rawd Brewery Company Limited and Chairman of the Board at Boon Rawd Supply Chain Company Limited, Dr. Usanee Mahagitsiri Leoneo, President of KFU Company Limited, and Pimpan Diskul Na Ayudhya, Vice President of Sustainability Education at The Stock Exchange of Thailand.
Additionally, the other distinguished recipients of this award comprise Pipatchara Kaeojinda, co-founder and creative director of the brand ‘PIPATCHARA’, Pipat Apiruktanakorn, the founder of KidKid Company Limited, Phanuphon Bulsuwan, also known as Chef Black and the founder of Blackitch Artisan Kitchen, Thanyarat Jirathitikeat, Chief Executive Officer of C Drink Company Limited, and Amata Chittasenee, better known as Pearypie, a social culture maker.
The highlight of this special evening was the auction of these four remarkable works of art, each created by artists who poured their heart and soul into their craft. These masterpieces included “Metamorphosis A Tale in Textile” (2019) by Ploenchan Vinyaratn, a piece crafted from fabric scraps, various fibers, and yarns, showcasing her dedication as an artist of over two decades. “Cocoon Earth” by Somnuek Klangnok, also known as Kru Parn, demonstrated the use of acrylics on canvas as a unique artistic technique.
The third work, “MookmooK” by Teerapoj Teeropas, was a creative transformation of the iconic “Peacock chair,” affectionately known as the “Beauty Queen Chair,” using environmentally friendly materials like recycled plastic and coffee chaff.
Lastly, the “Infinitude Lyra Fringe” bag, featured in the latest PIPATCHARA brand’s runway collection, was designed by Pipatchara Kaeojinda, using recycled plastic bottle caps and clear plastic cutlery.
After experiencing the joy of contributing to the Mae Fah Luang Foundation and indulging in delectable food and beverages, the esteemed guests were treated to a captivating performance by talented celebrity artists. The evening featured Finnegan Sukosol serenading the audience with “Fly Me to The Moon,” followed by a delightful duet by Finnegan Sukosol and Jay Veerayano with “What a Wonderful World”.
Ardhawadee Jiramaneekul also graced the stage with a rendition of “Reason.” The night concluded with a lively party, featuring the artist beloved by young women, Popetorn Soonthornyanakij.
This event received strong support from valued partners, including Lamborghini Bangkok by Renazzo Motor, Skinology No.5, UOB Privilege Banking, Smeg Thailand, and C2 drinking water.
It was an extraordinary evening, with distinguished guests coming together to actively participate in supporting, dedicating themselves, and contributing to the creation of sustainable benefits for society.
The AIDS ACCESS Foundation informed the public to allay concerns after a Thai woman who has been living with the HIV virus since birth told the public that since her heartbreak, she had been engaging in risky behaviors, including alcohol consumption and frequent one-night stands, for the past 7 months, starting in April.
Despite her HIV status, she continues to take her medication regularly. Recently, however, she has urged her sexual partners to get tested.
The foundation clarified that this case may not be as serious as it sounds, as the woman has been consistently taking HIV medication. If an individual has sex while on effective HIV treatment, there is minimal to no risk of transmitting the virus.
Nimit Tienudom, an advisor to the foundation, explained that if a person is on continuous treatment, their viral load is undetectable (meaning the virus is nearly absent from their bloodstream, with less than 50 copies per 1 ml of blood).
The foundation has been trying to spread information that “Undetectable = Untransmittable” or U = U. In this case, having sex with such an individual does not result in transmission of the virus.
“From a legal standpoint, there is no basis for criminal charges in this situation. The notion that alcohol consumption can render the virus resistant to medication is not accurate because alcohol does not affect the virus or the efficacy of antiretroviral drugs,” said Nimit.
The foundation emphasized the importance of getting tested and promoted the use of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for those at risk of HIV infection. Continuous treatment with HIV medication can result in an undetectable viral load, allowing those affected to lead a normal life similar to that of people without the virus, with no risk of transmission, especially when combined with condom use.
The police in Ubon Ratchathani Province suspected a little green snake might be the cause of a fire at the branch of the Bank for Agriculture and Agricultural Cooperatives in Samrong district.
The police received the report of a fire at a two-story building around 08:40 on November 5. Initial efforts to extinguish the fire were unsuccessful. So the authorities called for a water truck from the Samrong Municipal and Ubon Ratchathani Provincial Administrative Organisations to help. It took almost an hour to bring the fire under control.
The investigation revealed that the fire had broken out in the bank manager’s and deputy manager’s offices and in the customer service area. The bank’s cash storage area was not damaged.
Mr Amporn Boonsingh, a 59-year-old bank security employee, informed the police that there had been a loud explosion at around 8.20 am. He checked the electrical fuse box and found a blown fuse, which he reported to the bank employees on duty. About 20 minutes later, he smelled an odour of burning and saw the fire at the back of the bank. He then called the police for help.
When inspecting the fuse box, the police discovered the remains of a green snake about 30 centimetres long under the electricity pylon. The snake had burn marks on its head, which led them to suspect that the snake had caused a short circuit that led to the fire.
The authorities have collected evidence for further investigations to determine the exact cause of the fire.
“Nop Narongdej” reveals important facts to prove his innocence; the court decided in favour of him
The family’s case was overturned, “Nop Narongdej” reveals important facts to prove his innocence; the court decided in favour of him as the defendant continuously throughout the 6-year period.
As for Khunying Korkaew Boonyachinda, the court has dismissed all cases, confirming her innocence in the case of forging signatures and forging documents.
Nop Narongdej, along with Weerawong Chittmittrapap, his legal advisor, and Khunying Korkaew Boonyachinda, with Apiwut Thongkam, her legal advisor, provided critical information on November 2 to refute every accusation, family lawsuit, and Wind Energy Holding (WEH) stock case.
Khunying Korkaew Boonyachinda, with Apiwut Thongkam, her legal advisor,
They are ready to reveal the truth and confirm their innocence after a long period of silence. The court has ruled in their favor for the sixth consecutive time, explaining that “there is no reason to fake the signature because the Narongdej family had no involvement in investing in WEH shares.” The court also clarified the financial path and Khunying Korkaew Boonyachinda’s investment.
Over the past six years, Nop Narongdej chose not to respond, waiting for the court to resolve all cases. He has now come forward to explain the facts and make it clear, ready to prove the truth and address all accusations that have been misconstrued due to incomplete information, which resulted in misunderstandings.
Regarding the investment in WEH stocks, it is Nop’s personal investment and not related to the family. Unfortunately, the saddest thing for Nop in these past 6 years was the involvement of his father, Dr. Kasem Narongdej, being involved in this unfortunate situation as certain individuals wanted to benefit from the WEH shares acquired by Nop.
Additionally, Nop Narongdej and his children have not had the opportunity to meet their father/grandad throughout these past years due to the ongoing conflicts between siblings. As a result of this, despite several attempts to meet their father/grandad which were met with intervention. Nop and his sons still long to meet their father/grandad again.
Nop Narongdej, along with Weerawong Chittmittrapap, his legal advisor
Family Business Issues
Currently, the remaining company with Kris, Nop, and Korn as joint shareholders is KPN Land Co., Ltd. with each sibling holding 1/3 of the shares. However, once the conflict arose between the siblings in regards to the shares of Wind Energy Holding Co., Ltd. this led to Nop being excluded from participating in any management or decision-making within the family’s company. This conflict also affected KPN Land Co., Ltd. as it became a shareholder of Raimon Land Public Co., Ltd.
In terms of his own personal business, Nop Narongdej owns KPN Music Institute, which he founded in accordance with his mother’s wishes (Khunying Pornthip Narongdej) and successfully led it to a point where it has established franchises around the country.
In addition to this, Nop also has a healthcare business having invested in the creation of a new international hospital alongside two other partner companies.
Unveiling the Truth! Summaries of Verdicts and Winning Lawsuits Spanning Six Years
Case 1 – Hong Kong Case HCA 1525/2018
Kasem Narongdej acted as the plaintiff in this case, filing a lawsuit against Golden Music Limited, the 1st defendant, Nop Narongdej, the 2nd defendant, and Khunying Korkaew Boonyachinda, the 3rd defendant, in 2018. The lawsuit pertained to the allegation that Dr. Kasem owns the shares in Golden Music Limited with the attempt to revoke the share transfer between Dr. Kasem and Khunying Korkaew Boonyachinda and seek an emergency injunction order freezing the shares in Golden Music Limited.
Khunying Korkaew Boonyachinda
Nevertheless, after the defendant defended and proved with evidence to the court, Dr. Kasem suddenly and groundlessly withdrew this case. The court finds that Dr. Kasem’s reasons for withdrawing the case is groundless and that Dr. Kasem did not act in good faith in pursuing this case so the court ordered him to make the payment of expenses incurred during this case at the highest rate allowed by the court to the defendants.
Case 2 – Case of using forged documents, A. 2497/2018 (Ratchada Criminal Court) The plaintiff, Kasem Narongdej, asserted in this case that he was a significant shareholder of Golden Music Limited and filed a lawsuit against Khunying Korkaew Boonyachinda, the 1st defendant, Nop Narongdej, the 2nd defendant, and Surat Chiracharasporn, the 3rd defendant accusing them for the usage of the forged documents in relation to Golden Music.. The court dismissed the plaintiff’s case due to expert witnesses not being able to readily distinguish if they were forged or not.
Additionally, the family’s financial support was also determined by the court to be a loan which Nop was solely responsible and liable for. Therefore, in the eyes of the law this does not constitute a join investment and there is no motive for the defendants to forge the alleged documents. Furthermore, the prosecutions witnesses were unable to be considered by the court as the 3 documents were forgeries.
Case 3 – Property Recovery Case P.1031/2019 (Southern Bangkok Civil Court)
Kasem Narongdej was the plaintiff who initiated this lawsuit against 14 defendants and 31 co-defendants to recover assets (Wind Energy Holding Co., Ltd. shares) in 2019. The plaintiff sought an injunction order and the defendants filed the appeal. The Court of Appeal revoked the said injunction order regarding the seizure of the dividends from Wind Energy Holding and determined that the plaintiff had no legal standing to bring about this case to begin with.
Following the Court of Appeal’s decision, the plaintiff groundlessly requested to withdraw the case on the 20th of July, 2023. . Finally, even though the plaintiff claims to have given the shares to Nop and at a later dated requested for it to be returned it must be determined that Nop had acted ungratefully. However, the there was no reason to believe that Nop acted ungratefully.
Case 4 –Breach of Contact Case, Property Recovery P.978/2022 (Southern Bangkok Civil Court)
Kris and Korn Narongdej as co-plaintiffs sued Nop Narongdej, the 1st defendant, Wind Energy Holding Co., Ltd, as the 2nd defendant, Golden Music Limited, as the 3rd and Khunying Korkaew Boonyachinda as the fourth defendant in this 2022 legal dispute regarding a contract revocation and property recovery. The judgement in this case was the dismissal of the case.
Both of the plaintiffs had failed to challenge the legal presumption that the documents related to the transfer of shares were not genuine or were inadmissible as evidence for any reason. The various claims by both plaintiffs were unsubstantiated and carried no weight to counter the legal presumptions.
As a result of the plaintiff being unable to establish their case, the judge was compelled to believe that the transfer and purchase of the disputed shares were valid according to the law. The shares had indeed been transferred and acquired in accordance with legal procedures, and as such were not been deemed invalid.
As for the claims of ownership by the plaintiffs, it became evident that the funds used to purchase the disputed shares did not belong to either plaintiff and the documents they alleged to have been fraudulent were genuine and transfer of shares done in accordance with legal procedures. Therefore, it cannot be asserted that the two plaintiffs are the rightful owners of the disputed shares, and there is no requirement to return shares to them.
Nop Narongdej
Case 5 – Signature Forgery Case A.1708/2021 (Southern Bangkok Criminal Court)
In this case, the plaintiff was the Office of the Attorney General (Special Prosecutor’s Office, Southern Bangkok Criminal Division 1). They filed a lawsuit in 2021 against Nop Narongdej and 3 other individuals for the offenses of jointly forging rights documents.
The court in this case exercised its discretion and dismissed the case. Concluding that all 5 documents in question were indeed falsified, although proof and evidence including statements were presented including the testimony of Kasem they were unable to provide any evidence linking Khunying Korkaew and Ms.Supaporn to the forgeries or that they were involved in the registration.
Kris also stated that he had no knowledge of who signed the counterfeit signature. Whilst Korn testified that he was not present at the time of signing. Consequently, it is evident that the accused were not involved in the fabrication or use of the forged documents.
Security officers patrol on Nov. 11, 2019, in Pattani province.
Beyond whether you are for Israel or Palestine in the latest war, some Thai-Malay Muslims see the latest conflict in the middle east through a different prism. Soon after Hamas’ inhumane attack against Israel on Oct. 7 and Israel’s counterattack, a Thai Malay-Muslim Facebook friend said he feels as if Palestine is Pattani and Thailand is Israel.
This reflects the long-simmering views that the deep south, or the four-southernmost provinces of Thailand today, namely Pattani, Yala, Narathiwat, and Songkhla, have been an internal colony of Thailand for over a century now and some local people still aspire for an independent homeland.
This is not something most Thais want to hear, however. Majority of the Thai press routinely refer to separatists (or freedom fighters, depending on your views) as “southern bandits” or “joen tai” (โจรใต้) in order to degrade and delegitimize the struggles of these people in the deep south.
Writing for Prachatai English, Japanese scholar Hara Shintaro, a resident of Pattani who married a Thai-Malay Muslim, recently penned an article on the impact of “Palestine-Israel crisis on Patani/the southern border provinces of Thailand” and noted, “the reactions of the local Muslims are most visible in Facebook activism, such as posting political messages or changing profile pictures to include symbols displaying sympathetic support for the Palestinians.”
Shintaro also quoted a statement by BRN (Barisan Revolusi Nasional), the prominent Malay separatist group, saying “BRN and Patani Malay Muslims stand by the Muslim brothers and sisters in Palestine because we are both colonized, and our fight against the colonizers (the Siamese in Patani and the Israelis in Palestine) is legitimate.” Shintaro then noted the new Srettha Thavisin administration has yet to resume the “peace dialogue” which has been suspended for eight months now.
I have heard some Thais saying in the past only a tiny number of radicals in the deep south want to see an independent Pattani homeland, or Patani (with one “t”), as those for its independence prefer to call it. Others said we can talk about independent Pattani after Americans leave America to the native Americans, Canadians leave Canada to the First Nations, and Australians leave Australia to the aboriginal people.
While there may be some basis of uncomfortable truth in that, what we can and should do is to devolve power, or at least decentralize the deep south and make local Thai-Malay Muslims feel less like second class citizens and more like a truly equal partner of Thailand.
It is clear at this stage that most non-Muslim Thais would ‘naturally’ be against an independent Pattani, but it should not mean we need to continue to treat Thai-Malay Muslims like second class citizens. For example, Move Forward Party made the right move recently when its MPs, including Rangsiman Rome, who chairs the House Committee on Security Affairs, met with Defense Minister Suthin Klangsaeng earlier this week in a bid to convince him and the government to lift the prolonged emergency decree in many parts of the deep south sooner than later.
We need to reduce the restrictive security measures in the deep south that alienate and repress people there, and more, and hopefully sometime in the future we can perhaps calmly and collectively decide about the future course of the deep south.
