“LogiMAT | Intelligent Warehouse 2023”

By

-

16 November 2023, 11:25

“LogiMAT | Intelligent Warehouse 2023” — A Trade Show for the Best Technology and Intelligent Warehousing System. Ends with a Grand Finale, Setting the Stage for “LogiMAT Southeast Asia” 16-18 October 2024

LogiMAT | Intelligent Warehouse 2023 — A Trade Show for the Best Technology and Intelligent Warehousing System, celebrated a highly successful conclusion. This year’s event established itself as the exclusive intralogistics trade show in the ASEAN region and saw a remarkable surge in exhibitor participation, with over 99 world-class companies taking part — more than double the previous year’s count. The trade show exhibited its potential to attract international pavilions, including the China Pavilion and the German Pavilion. Notably, there was a remarkable 55% increase in international professional visitors compared to the 2022 edition, with attendees hailing from China, Singapore, Germany, Malaysia, India, and over 20 other countries.

One success factor is the “Business Matching Programme”, which has invited 130 leading Thai and foreign companies, such as Airports of Thailand PCL, Charoen Pokphand Foods PCL, CP ALL PCL, Sermsuk PCL, Central Department Store Co Ltd, Nikon Corporation, etc. With scheduled management team and welcomed all as our VIP guests to connect with exhibitors to business matching. Align with the concept of “Connecting Smart Networks”.

At LogiMAT | Intelligent Warehouse 2023, we hosted a range of activities to address future trends in the logistics industry. These included LogiMAT Talks, which featured more than 20 seminar sessions, including the Orange Forum discussing perspectives and trends in intralogistics, and the Blue Forum for sharing industry solutions. Additionally, a 400-square-meter Product Demonstration area allowed attendees to gain hands-on experience in efficient warehouse and logistics management processes, including driverless vehicle simulations.

Significantly, this event at Food Logistics Zone marked the inaugural soft launch of “LogiFOOD Southeast Asia”, introducing innovative solutions within the food logistics and cold chain industry in Southeast Asia, showcased cutting-edge food storage equipment, advanced refrigeration systems, streamlined processing techniques, and sustainable packaging solutions. We look ahead to the official launch, co-located with LogiMAT Southeast Asia in 2024.”

Ms. Mattaneeya Sengpanit, Dealer and Business Development Director of Jungheinrich Lift Truck Ltd. said that “LogiMAT | Intelligent Warehouse has been a part of the top-tier global trade fair “LogiMAT”, which serves the logistics industry worldwide, focusing intralogistics, warehouse, and process management. This stature consistently draws Jungheinrich Thailand as an exhibitor. This year’s event featured the noteworthy “Business Matching Programme” and the supporting area “VIP Lounge.” The LogiMAT Team extended invitations to key players from various industries, including agriculture, food & beverage, automotive, machinery & production, chemical-pharmaceutical-cosmetic, and more, while warmly welcoming 100 VIP guests from Jungheinrich Thailand.”

Mr. Sarawut Laoprasert, Country Manager of SSI Schaefer System International Co Ltd said that “As a proud member of the Thai Intralogistics Association (TIA), SSI Schaefer Thailand recognised the significant opportunity presented by the LogiMAT | Intelligent Warehouse 2023 event. It provided a platform to engage with a diverse audience, including professional visitors, buyers, new customer groups, and potential partners from various companies within the intralogistics industry. This year’s event exuded a vibrant crowded atmosphere, fostering connections with existing clients and new customers alike. It also facilitated the exchange of insights and the exploration of emerging technologies through dedicated activities on the LogiMAT Talks stage, encompassing both the Orange Forum and Blue Forum.”

Mr. Wichet Muengchan, Group CEO of Eureka Automation Co Ltd said that “LogiMAT is a platform for showcasing a diverse spectrum of products and solutions. It serves as a stage for both world-class companies and newcomers, including SMEs seeking global market recognition, to exhibit their innovative offerings in hardware and software. Mr. Wichet expressed confidence in the event’s capacity to connect participants with the right industry buyers, customer groups. Aligning with Eureka’s strategic objectives. The event also featured a Product Demonstration, showcasing intelligent warehouse management processes from upstream to downstream, presenting valuable opportunities for Eureka and a substantial customer base.”

Mr. Bill Lim, Senior Sales Manager of Hai Robotics Singapore Pte Ltd said that “We are extremely excited to be back at LogiMAT | Intelligent Warehouse in Thailand this year to showcase what we have achieved in the warehouse space. We attended last year and experienced significant success, which is the main reason for our return as an exhibitor. It was a wonderful experience, and this year’s event is noticeably larger in terms of size and scale compared to last year. This enhances the value of the exhibition and provides us with more business opportunities. The Southeast Asia market has emerged as a significant player in the global intralogistics industry, and we aim to continue, present, and further build our reputation locally, regionally, and internationally as pioneers in Asia’s Warehouse & Automation Solutions.”

Mr. Marcus Kaczmarek, Head of International Sales of AMI Förder- und Lagertechnik GmbH said that “At LogiMAT | Intelligent Warehouse, we’ve discovered an exceptional platform that not only allows us to showcase our products and solutions but also to maximise the spotlight on us. This event has enabled us to establish new connections and dive headfirst into the dynamic Thailand and Southeast Asia market. It’s our first time participating, and we’re thrilled with the experience. We’ve had the opportunity to connect with new companies, engage in meaningful discussions, and forge valuable connections that have already borne fruit in the form of promising leads. This event has exceeded our expectations, and we’re excited about the future possibilities it holds for us in this vibrant market.”

Ready to meet end-to-end logistics innovations, LogiMAT Southeast Asia – LogiFOOD Southeast Asia, in October 2024 next year. Follow more information and details at

LogiMAT Southeast Asia

www.logimat-sea.com | www.facebook.com/logimatsea | www.linkedin.com/showcase/logimatsea

LogiFOOD Southeast Asia

www.logifood-sea.com | www.facebook.com/logifoodsea | www.linkedin.com/showcase/logifoodsea

India Contacts Thai Experts From “The Cave” To Help 40 Workers Trapped In The Tunnel

By

Associated Press

-

16 November 2023, 00:08

India Tunnel Collapse — People watch rescue and relief operations at the site of an under-construction road tunnel that collapsed in mountainous Uttarakhand state, India, Wednesday, Nov. 15, 2023. (AP Photo)

LUCKNOW, India (AP) — Some of the 40 workers trapped for days in a collapsed road tunnel in northern India were falling sick Wednesday as falling debris and technical glitches delayed work to free them, officials said.

Rescuers have been trying to drill through the rubble and insert wide steel pipes to free the construction workers who have been trapped since Sunday when a portion of the tunnel they were working on collapsed in the mountainous Uttarakhand state.

AP23318437003643 — This photo provided by Uttarakhand State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) shows rescue work inside a collapsed road tunnel where 40 workers were trapped in northern in Uttarakhand state, India, Tuesday, Nov.14, 2023. ( SDRF via AP)

Progress has been slow because of debris falling in the channel excavated so far and glitches with the rescuers’ drilling machine, but a more powerful machine has been airlifted there and was being assembled for use, the National Highway Authority said.

The group of 40 construction workers, most of them migrant laborers from across India, have confirmed receiving food and water sent via narrow channels in the debris, the authority said.

However, some of them are expressing concern because they have started suffering from fever and body aches, said Abhishek Ruhela, a magistrate and the top government official in the town of Uttarkashi near where the collapse happened. Medicine also has been sent through the pipes, he said.

AP23318406231027 — This photo provided by Uttarakhand State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) shows rescuers and others inside a collapsed road tunnel where 40 workers were trapped in northern in Uttarakhand state, India, Tuesday, Nov.14, 2023. ( SDRF via AP)

“Essential eatables such as chickpeas and almonds are being sent through the same channels,” Ruhela said.

Relatives and friends of the trapped workers have gathered outside the tunnel, and were growing frustrated and angry.

The state government has been conferring with the Indian army as well as with foreign experts for suggestions that might help in the rescue.

State officials have contacted Thai experts who helped rescue a junior association football team that was trapped in a cave system in northern Thailand in 2018, state government administrator Gaurav Singh said. They also have approached the Norwegian Geotechnical Institute for possible help, Singh said.

AP23319321429694 — People watch rescue and relief operations at the site of an under-construction road tunnel that collapsed in mountainous Uttarakhand state, India, Wednesday, Nov. 15, 2023. (AP Photo)

About 200 disaster relief personnel have been at the site using drilling equipment and excavators in the rescue operation, with the plan to push 75-centimeter-wide (2.5-foot-wide) steel pipes through an opening of excavated debris.

Falling debris lightly injured two rescue workers, and delayed operations on Tuesday and Wednesday.

“These are challenges in such rescue operations, but we will overcome them,” disaster management official Ranjit Sinha said.

AP23318437018953 — This photo provided by Uttarakhand State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) shows rescue work inside a collapsed road tunnel where 40 workers were trapped in northern in Uttarakhand state, India, Tuesday, Nov.14, 2023. ( SDRF via AP)

A landslide during road construction Sunday caused a portion of the 4.5-kilometer (2.7-mile) tunnel to collapse about 200 meters (500 feet) from the entrance. It is a hilly tract of land, prone to landslide and subsidence.

Uttarakhand is a mountainous state dotted with Hindu temples that attract many pilgrims and tourists and construction of highways and buildings has been constant to accommodate the influx.

The tunnel is part of the busy Chardham all-weather road, a flagship federal project connecting various Hindu pilgrimage sites.

______

Israeli Forces Raid Gaza’s Largest Hospital, Where Hundreds Of Patients Are Stranded By Fighting

By

Associated Press

-

15 November 2023, 20:33

Israel Palestinians — Palestinians look at destruction after Israeli strikes on Rafah, Gaza Strip, Wednesday, Nov. 14, 2023. (AP Photo/Hatem Ali)

KHAN YOUNIS, Gaza Strip (AP) — Israeli forces on Wednesday raided Gaza’s largest hospital, a beleaguered facility filled with hundreds of patients, including newborns, that is at the heart of clashing narratives around the war and a potent symbol of Palestinian suffering.

Israel viewed Shifa Hospital as a key target in a conflict that has killed thousands of Palestinians and unleashed widespread destruction in Gaza. The war between Israel and Hamas erupted after the militant group killed some 1,200 people and seized around 240 captives in a surprise Oct. 7 attack.

Israel says Shifa is a Hamas command post nestled under civilians, without providing visual evidence — part of its broader accusation that the militants use Palestinians as human shields. Hamas and Gaza health officials deny militants operate in Shifa, and Palestinians and rights groups say Israel has recklessly endangered civilians as it seeks to eradicate Hamas.

A worsening fuel shortage, meanwhile, threatened to paralyze the delivery of humanitarian services across Gaza and shut down the mobile phone and internet network.

ISRAELI RAID INTO SHIFA

Munir al-Boursh, a senior official with Gaza’s Health Ministry, said Israeli forces had ransacked the basement and other buildings at Shifa, including those housing the emergency and surgery departments.

“They are still here,” he said by phone from inside the hospital, hours after the raid began. “Patients, women and children are terrified.”

AP23318685737332 — In this image taken from video, sparks rise from an explosion in the Gaza Strip in this view from southern Israel around dusk, Tuesday, Nov. 14, 2023. (AP Photo)

The Israeli military said it was carrying out a “precise and targeted operation against Hamas in a specified area in the hospital,” adding that it was separate from where patients and medical staff are located.

It was not possible to independently assess the situation inside.

The military said the soldiers were accompanied by medical teams and bringing in incubators. It shared footage of them unloading equipment — as well as a couple dozen boxes labeled “medical supplies” and “baby food” in English — inside the hospital compound.

It added that forces are searching for hostages. The plight of the captives, who include men, women and children, has galvanized Israeli support for the war, and families and supporters of the hostages are holding a protest march from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem.

The raid drew condemnation from Jordan and the internationally recognized Palestinian Authority, which called it a violation of international law. U.N. aid chief Martin Griffiths said he was “appalled” by the raid, saying the protection of civilians “must override all other concerns.”

At one point, tens of thousands of Palestinians seeking safety from Israeli bombardment were sheltering at the hospital, but most left in recent days as the fighting drew closer. A few thousand remain behind, along with patients, including premature babies, whose fate has drawn particular concern.

The Health Ministry said 40 patients, including three babies, have died since Shifa’s emergency generator ran out of fuel Saturday. Another 36 babies are at risk of dying because there is no power for incubators, according to the ministry.

Hours before Israel’s raid, the United States said its own intelligence indicated militants have used Shifa and other hospitals — and tunnels beneath them — to support military operations and hold hostages.

With its troops inside Shifa, the burden will shift to Israel to prove its claim that the facility was being used by militants and that it was a big enough military target to justify the battle that isolated its patients for days and a fuel embargo that eventually shut down incubators and other life-saving equipment.

Hospitals can lose their protected status if combatants use them for military purposes, but civilians must be given ample time to flee, and any attack must be proportional to the military objective.

A TRICKLE OF FUEL FOR AID WORKERS

The deteriorating conditions at Shifa reflect the broader deprivations across the besieged territory.

Hardly any aid has been delivered to the the north, which has been without power or running water for weeks. About two thirds of the territory’s 2.3 million people have fled their homes — and most are now squeezed into the southern part of the narrow coastal strip, where conditions are also deteriorating as bombardment there continues.

After refusing to allow fuel into Gaza for weeks, Israeli defense officials changed course early Wednesday to let in some 24,000 liters (6,340 gallons), but the fuel will only allow the U.N. agency for Palestinian refugees, known as UNRWA, to continue bringing limited supplies of food and medicine from Egypt.

The agency is providing basic services to the more than 600,000 people sheltering in severely overcrowded U.N.-run schools and other facilities in the south.

Thomas White, director of UNRWA in Gaza, said that under Israeli restrictions the fuel would only be used for transporting aid from Egypt. “No fuel for water or hospitals,” he said, adding that the amount is equivalent of “only 9% of what we need daily to sustain lifesaving activities.”

AP23319307522310 — Palestinians mourn their relatives killed in the Israeli bombardment of the Gaza Strip, in the hospital in Khan Younis, Wednesday, Nov. 15, 2023. ( AP Photo/Fatima Shbair)

COGAT, the Israeli defense body responsible for Palestinian civilian affairs, said the decision to allow the fuel came at the request of the U.S. Israel has barred all fuel imports since the start of the war, saying Hamas would use it for military purposes.

The Palestinian telecom company Paltel, meanwhile, said it was relying on batteries to keep Gaza’ mobile and internet network running, and that it expected services to halt later Wednesday. Gaza has experienced three previous mass communication outages since the ground invasion.

More than 11,200 people, two-thirds of them women and minors, have been killed in Gaza, according to the Palestinian Health Ministry in Ramallah. About 2,700 people have been reported missing, with most believed to be buried under the rubble. The ministry’s count does not differentiate between civilian and militant deaths.

BATTLE IN GAZA CITY

Israeli troops, meanwhile, have extended their control across northern Gaza, capturing the territory’s legislature building and police headquarters. The military says Israeli forces have completed the takeover of Shati refugee camp, a densely built district, and are moving about freely in the city as a whole.

The military says its forces have found weapons and eliminated fighters in government buildings, schools and residential buildings. Israel says it has killed several thousand fighters, including important mid-level commanders, while 46 of its own soldiers have been killed in Gaza.

Inside some of the newly captured buildings, soldiers held up the Israeli flag and military flags in celebration.

Defense Minister Yoav Gallant said Tuesday that Hamas had “lost control” of northern Gaza and that Israel made significant gains in Gaza City. But when asked about the timeframe for the war, he said: “We’re talking about long months, not a day or two.”

___

IT Giants And Walmart Are Dealing With Thailand, Said The PM

By

Khaosod English

-

15 November 2023, 17:18

During his APEC Summit visit to San Francisco, Srettha Thavisin, Prime Minister and Minister of Finance met with executives of large global American firms, particularly IT giants, at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel. He said there’s no better moment to invest in Thailand and get tax benefits, clean energy, and good living conditions.

He discussed working with Walmart, the world’s largest retail chain, to introduce local Thai products, including halal food, into Walmart shops, while Walmart wants to open more markets in Thailand.

In addition, plans for increased investment and the relocation of production from the Philippines to Thailand were announced in discussions with Western Digital’s executives, Thailand’s largest digital hardware manufacturer.

In addition, agreements were signed with AWS, a subsidiary of Amazon, to set up a data center, which represents a significant investment.

One positive development is that talks with Google have led to a signed memorandum of understanding on the establishment of a data centre in Thailand.

Srettha also stated the MOU between Microsoft Company and the Thai government shows that Thailand is willing to improve public services with digital technologies. This cooperation should boost Thailand’s digital competitiveness.

Microsoft has three key business segments: productivity and business processes, cloud (Azure) (public, private, and hybrid), and personal computing (computers, laptops, tablets). The corporation is studying data investment plans at at a large centre in Thailand. The government ensures that foreign investors in Thailand receive full support.

The PM stressed the importance of working with global giants AWS, Google and Microsoft and expressed optimism that such investments would improve Thailand’s industrial standing.

During his visit to the United States, he expressed satisfaction with the collaboration with key private sector players. International investors emphasized factors such as world-class schools and hospitals that contribute to Thailand’s attractiveness.

Srettha mentioned that he has assigned a team to put together a three-month plan for attracting foreign investors, focusing on who has already invested, potential investors and their contributions. He emphasized that the public should judge the results of the investments, while his responsibility is to carry out his duties diligently.

______

UOB Thailand Increases Access to Personal Loan Services Refresh UOB Xpress Centres Nationwide

By

Contributor

-

15 November 2023, 16:01

Bangkok – United Overseas Bank (UOB) Thailand has refreshed its personal loan centre “UOB Xpress”, making them accessible nationwide. This move is a key element of the Bank’s omni-channel approach aimed at enhancing access to its lending services with plans to renovate 46 loan centres by the close of this year.

The brand refreshed follows UOB’s acquisition of Citigroup’s consumer banking businesses in early 2022 when Citicorp Leasing (Thailand) Co., Ltd. transferred the ownership of its business in Thailand to UOB Capital Services Co., Ltd., a subsidiary of UOB Thailand.

Mr Tearavath Trirutdilokkul, Head of Card Payment & Unsecured Products, UOB Thailand said “In a rapidly evolving financial landscape, our revamped of 46 UOB Xpress centres signifies our commitment to broadening financial accessibility for our customers nationwide. We aim to offer financial solutions tailored to their individual needs, empowering our customers to seamlessly navigate their financial journeys with a trust-worth partner by their side.”

Customers can access a range of financial solutions offered at UOB Xpress including consulting services tailored to their specific financial needs and personal loans with a credit limit up to two million baht to the interest rates as low as 9.99 per cent p.a., flexible loan repayment plan from 12 to 60 months and expedited approval within 30 minutes for customers who apply for the personal loan at the centre.

Currently, there are 18 UOB Xpress centres located in Bangkok and 27 centres in other key provinces. with another centre at EmSphere set to open in January 2024.

10 Laotian Women Arrested for Illegal Karaoke Work in Khon Kaen

By

Khaosod English

-

15 November 2023, 15:38

khonkaen laos1 — Police raided a well-known karaoke shop in Kranuan district, Khon Kaen province, on November 15.

Pol. Lt. Col. Soraj Wichayasut, head of the Khon Kaen Immigration Department, reported the arrest of 10 Laotian women, seven of whom had entered Thailand on tourist visas, while the remaining three entered illegally, via Nong Khai and Bueng Kan provinces. These women were caught serving food and drinks to customers at a karaoke establishment without the required work permit.

He joined the Tourist Police, the Labour Department, and Khon Kaen provincial labour agents to announce a raid on a well-known karaoke shop in Kranuan district, Khon Kaen province, on November 15.

khonkaen laos3 — A well-known karaoke shop in Kranuan district, Khon Kaen province

The authorities accused them of working without the required permits and the individuals were detained by the police at Kranuan Police Station for further investigation. Legal proceedings were initiated and they were fined between 10,000 and 100,000 baht. The women were to be sent back to Laos.

At the same time, vigilance and strict inspections were ordered at large factories in the Nam Phong, Kranuan, Ubonrat and Tha Phra areas of Khon Kaen. The authorities wanted to check, investigate and arrest all foreign workers who violate the law while monitoring both Thai and foreign nationals with arrest warrants, especially those involved in cross-border criminal activities within Thailand.

_____

AIS Supports Online Merchants, Growing Stronger With Worldwide Partners

By

Contributor

-

15 November 2023, 14:34

AIS supports online merchants, growing stronger through a global network and solutions from worldwide partners, seizing sales opportunities from a customer base within the AIS group of over 49 million, consolidated in the Online Seller package.

AIS reaffirms its dedication to strengthening the digital economy by aligning with online business groups. It delivers products and services that cater to personalized business needs, showcasing intelligence in the latest Online Seller package designed specifically for online merchants.

AIS, the digital leader, enhances the online selling experience with seamless live streaming on the 5G network, fiber-optic internet, and marketing tools from global and national partners like TikTok Shop, Canva, Microsoft 365, LINE MAN MESSENGER, MyOrder, Tung Ngern, and FlowAccount. Together, they empower online merchants to thrive, boost sales, and become AIS’s Point partners.

Mr. Pratthana Leelapanang, Chief Consumer Business Officer at AIS noted, “We are ready to stand by the Residential SMEs, online merchants, who have experienced significant growth since the COVID situation. We support them with our three key strengths, including a robust communication network for both mobile and home internet, partnerships with global providers of solutions and applications, and opportunities to deliver products and services to a customer base within the AIS group of over 49 million. This is in our role as partners with AIS.”

“We have now discovered that current trading methods involve a storefront, which is the segment of younger operators who see trading opportunities, and who are committed to become online sellers, despite not having registered as a juristic entity. Each of them has a unique need for tools, which are a telecom network with services that are clear to understand and not too complicated. For instance, they need a stable network connecting to online live-streaming selling platforms, with software solutions to manage back office systems automatically.

This is how we came to design a package exclusively for online sellers. Telecom services on the 5G network and the fastest Internet service for the store ensure that every live stream or chat to confirm delivery is smooth and glitch-free.

We are also working with leading partners to enable additional professionally managed sales channels for customers through TikTok Shop. Canva is a flexible tool enabling users to create graphics easily on apps to promote their products, while there is a premium Microsoft service of document management with storage space of up to 1TB.

There are helpers in the matter of rapid delivery such as LINE MAN MESSENGER. MyOrder provides a major upgrade to professional business systems for online sellers, by reducing procedure. Meanwhile, the exceptional functionality of the Tung Ngern application is utilized by over 1.8 million businesses nationwide, addressing accounting system challenges through FlowAccount solutions, catering to the needs of modern online merchants.

Each of these features together supply solutions that cover every angle of doing business, and have been brought together in 4 online seller packages which understand the requirements of online sellers the best.”

AIS All in One Package is a new definition of Internet for retail stores, with a strong signal in every corner and fully-featured functions. On top of the speed required for business, the package also includes an AI Router with SIM Net 20 GB. Most exclusively, Microsoft 365 Family offers up to 6 user accounts and storage on One Drive of 1 TB per account. AIS Postpaid Customer with a monthly service fee of 349 Baht minimum can receive this package exclusively for 1,199 THB/month (All Customer 1,499 THB/month), which covers every aspect of online trading * AIS Postpaid Customer with a monthly service fee of 349 Baht minimum will receive 20GB On-Top internet at the AIS Postpaid number used for the privilege only.
AIS 5G Seller Package: This offers ultra high-speed internet and sales tools for customers to design posters or other artwork on Canva for a free trial of 45 days. There are also programs to help with back office management such as MyOrder, which is free for 6 months. Transportation is handled with LINE MAN MESSENGER offering amazing discounts worth over 3,100 THB. While prices for the package start at only 699 THB / month, customers migrating from another network receive an extra discount of 25%, for a price of only 974 THB.

AIS 5G TikTok Shop Package: This enables online sellers to conduct uninterrupted live streams on full speed 5G, cheap calls to any network and free advertising on TikTok worth 300 THB, as well as customer care programs from FlowAccount, for only 699 THB/month.
AIS 5G Tung Ngern Social Package: This provides unlimited access to social media through 4 applications which are Tung Ngern stores, LINE, Instagram and Facebook. There is also unlimited internet with a top speed of 30 GB, all for the low price of only 499 THB/month.

For AIS customers, whether you’re getting a new number, switching carriers, topping up, or going for a monthly plan, you can subscribe to up to 2 packages that suit your needs. Options include the Microsoft package, yearly, with Personal package for user 1 account or the Microsoft 365 Family package for up to 6 accounts at a special price and ready to apply in this December 2023. Content enthusiasts can also grab the TikTok 5G monthly package for just 199 Baht, offering up to 100 GB of high-speed internet for a boundless TikTok experience.

Mr. Pratthana concluded, “Most importantly, online merchants who choose to adopt this package will step into becoming instant partners with AIS, presenting opportunities to sell products and services to a customer base of over 49 million AIS users. Therefore, the launch of this package not only strengthens our digital economy but also supports the growth of the grassroots economy, reinforcing the ECOSYSTEM ECONOMY concept aimed at sustainable growth in all sectors.

Additionally, it provides special benefits to all AIS customers, reducing financial burdens and offering convenient options for purchasing products and services online.”

Thai and Chinese Unite in ‘Star For You Tour’ Concert

By

Contributor

-

15 November 2023, 12:24

The Thai government, in collaboration with the private sector, including Thai and Chinese partners, has launched the “Star For You Tour,” a campaign aimed at enhancing Thai-Chinese relations and promoting tourism.

Set to boost Thailand’s economy by year-end, this initiative capitalizes on Thailand’s soft power, featuring beloved Thai artists and unique travel experiences.

The “Star For You Tour” campaign is designed to promote tourism among Chinese tourists through Thailand’s soft power, in line with government policies. The event employs influencer marketing strategies to target Chinese tourists who are fans of Thai artists, offering them a unique travel experience to various Thai tourist destinations and a chance to attend a special concert.

This is a collaborative effort involving TAT, the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB), the Thai-Chinese Tourism Business Association, the Immigration Bureau, the Tourist Police, Thai Airways International Public Co., Ltd., OTOP Trader, Thai Sports, Exact Scenario Co., Ltd., and Propoliz products.

Scheduled for December 2, 2023, the highlight of the campaign is the “Star For You Meeting Concert” at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center. This exclusive gathering is expected to draw fans to a first-of-its-kind gathering of four popular artists from a popular series.

The concert features two beloved pairs: Film Thanapat and Jam Rachata, stars from the series “Khun Chai” and “Law Of Attraction,” and Daou Pittaya and Offroad Kantapon from the boy band Laz 1, also known for their roles in “Love In Translation” on Channel One 31. This is the first time these artists will share the stage, offering a unique performance exclusive to this event.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) reports that from January 1 to November 10, 2023, Thailand welcomed 2,876,426 Chinese tourists. The “Star For You Tour” is anticipated to attract at least an additional 5,000 tourists from China, potentially generating upwards of 300 million baht. This influx is seen as a vital contribution to the Thai economy, particularly during the festive year-end period, and is expected to reinforce the amicable ties between Thailand and China.

The organizers, Nee Krung Connect Co., Ltd. and Siam Casa Trading Co., Ltd., ensure an unforgettable show, emphasizing that it will be unlike any performance previously seen in other countries.

Don’t miss this unique cultural rendezvous on December 2 at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center in Bangkok.

Thai Police Arrest Indonesian Man for Embezzling “G20” Car

By

Khaosod English

-

15 November 2023, 03:07

indo man2 — An Indonesian man was apprehended in a condominium in Bangkok's Phayathai district.

After receiving coordinated information from the Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia in Thailand, Immigration Bureau police held a press conference on November 14 to arrest an Indonesian man with a Red Notice arrest warrant for embezzling a luxury car worth over 5 million baht.

Mr. Christopher, or Chris, has been on the run in Thailand since July. The officer then revoked his permission to stay in the Kingdom because he was the subject of an arrest warrant, before apprehending him in a condominium in Bangkok’s Phayathai district.

An Indonesian man claimed during the investigation that he worked for a luxury car rental company in Indonesia. He duped the victim into bringing him a Toyota Alphard automobile, claiming it would be used at the G-20 summit in Bali, Indonesia. Rent will be the type of payment.

After believing Chris, the victim gave him the car and documents. Chris requested more of the car’s certificate to fix the licence plate. He then departed with the automobile to resell it. This cost the victim his car and rent. The value exceeds 5 million baht.

After this, Thai officials will send Chris back to Indonesia for further prosecution.

A police officer prepares an ATV for patrol ahead of the G20 Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Nusa Dua, Bali, Indonesia, Thursday, July 7, 2022. Photo: Dita Alangkara / AP — A police officer prepares an ATV for patrol ahead of the G20 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Nusa Dua, Bali, Indonesia, Thursday, July 7, 2022. Photo: Dita Alangkara / AP

______

Two Suicides Have Shaken The Japanese Entertainment Industry

By

Kyodo News

-

15 November 2023, 02:12

johnny suicide — Johnny & Associates Inc.

Japan’s Kyodo News Agency reported on the same day about two suicide cases in the Japanese entertainment industry. The first involved a former male member of Johnny’s company, while the second case included a female member of Takarazuka Revue, a theatre group.

Johnny’s Sex Abuse Victim Dies In Possible Suicide In Japan

OSAKA – A man who belonged to an association for victims of sexual abuse by Johnny Kitagawa, the late founder of Japan’s top male talent agency previously known as Johnny & Associates Inc., has died in a possible case of suicide, sources familiar with the matter said Tuesday.

The man in his 40s was found dead in the western Japan prefecture of Osaka in mid-October, the sources said. His death comes amid a barrage of online slander against the group, with some former members of the agency having filed complaints with police in response.

The man, a resident of Osaka city, was found in the mountains in Minoo alongside what is believed to be a suicide note. He had claimed to have been sexually abused by Kitagawa.

Junya Hiramoto, a representative for the association, previously said that the group had received torrents of online abuse since it was formed, amounting to “no less than tens of thousands” of cases. He filed a complaint with the police in October.

Also among those who have filed complaints to the police in recent months include Kyohei Iida, a former member of idol group Kis-My-Ft2, and Akimasa Nihongi, one of two people who first proposed establishing the group.

Since publicly speaking out earlier this year, Nihongi has since received around 100 abusive messages online, calling him a “liar” or framing his actions as a “publicity stunt.”

Kitagawa was one of the Japanese entertainment industry’s most powerful figures, propelling numerous groups such as SMAP and Arashi to stardom before his death in 2019.

After a BBC documentary aired in March featuring interviews with multiple people who claimed to have been sexually abused by the pop mogul, several former agency members came forward with additional accusations of abuse inflicted upon them during their teenage years.

An external probe set up by the company that concluded in August found Kitagawa had sexually abused teens aspiring to become pop singers for decades.

In September, the agency admitted to decades of sexual abuse by Kitagawa.

Over 300 people have since sought compensation from the firm, which was renamed Smile-Up Inc. in October to distance itself from its namesake.’

_____

Takarazuka Group Head To Quit Over Actress’ Death But Denies Bullying

OSAKA – The chairman of Japan’s all-female musical theater company Takarazuka Revue said Tuesday he will step down over the recent death of one of its actresses, who a lawyer said committed suicide due to overwork and bullying within her troupe.

Kenshi Koba apologized to the bereaved family of the 25-year-old actress at a press conference “for not being able to protect the life of your precious loved one,” but said an external probe team set up to investigate her death has found no evidence of bullying.

But the team acknowledged the possibility that the actress was under a “strong psychological burden” just prior to her death, the company told the press conference held in its base of Takarazuka, Hyogo Prefecture and presented a series of proposed measures to improve working conditions.

Kenshi Koba, chairman of the musical theater group Takarazuka Revue, is pictured at a press conference in Takarazuka, Hyogo Prefecture, on Nov. 14, 2023. (Kyodo)

Koba said he will resign on Dec. 1 to take responsibility for the oversight in the group’s duty of care.

The findings come as a lawyer representing the family said last week that the actress’ suicide had been caused by overworking and bullying by senior members of the group, demanding an apology and compensation from the company and its operator, Hankyu Corp.

The lawyer, Hiroshi Kawahito, called for a reassessment of the report that claimed no bullying occurred, citing its “inappropriate recognition of facts and evaluation.”

He also criticized the report for viewing the harsh scolding by senior members toward the actress as being within the scope of guidance, saying that it reflected “thinking based on outdated values” such as hierarchical relationships.

The actress was found dead on the premises of her condominium on the morning of Sept. 30 in what police called a suspected suicide.

The company’s outside probe team, comprising mainly lawyers, has been investigating the circumstances surrounding her death, including conducting interviews with other members of the Cosmos troupe to which she belonged.

It found that the group’s tight performance schedule had led to a situation where the mental and physical well-being of the actresses was being compromised amid a lack of oversight.

But Kawahito said the report had underestimated the overtime the actress had clocked in the last month before her death at 118 hours.

Her family asserts that excessive overtime of 277 hours per month and bullying had compromised her health and led to her suicide.

______

Hot News

LATEST NEWS