Oscar-Winner Michelle Yeoh Among Eight Elected IOC Members

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19 October 2023, 14:07

ioc yeoh2 — Michelle Yeoh takes the oath as new IOC member during the session. (Xinhua/Cao Can)

Oscar-winning actress Michelle Yeoh was among eight newly elected IOC members during the 141st IOC Session.

MUMBAI — Oscar-winning actress Michelle Yeoh has become an International Olympic Committee (IOC) member after being voted in on the final day of the 141st IOC Session here on Tuesday.

The 61-year-old Malaysian, formerly a junior squash champion, was among eight newly elected members.

Joining her on the Olympic governing body are judoka Yael Arad, who won Israel’s first Olympic medal, Hungarian businessman Balasz Furjes, Cecilia Roxana Tait Villacorta, a former Olympic volleyball medalist of Peru, and German entrepreneur Michael Mronz.
All five had been proposed as individual members by the IOC Executive Board in September.

ioc yeoh1 — International Olympic Committee (IOC) president Thomas Bach (5th L) poses with new IOC members during the 141st IOC Session in Mumbai, India on Oct. 17, 2023. (Xinhua/Cao Can)

Sweden’s Petra Sorling, president of the International Table Tennis Federation, and South Korea’s Kim Jae-youl, president of the International Skating Union, were also elected thanks to their function as heads of international federations.

Mehrez Boussayene, president of the Tunisian Olympic Committee, was elected for a function within a National Olympic Committee (NOC).

These elections bring the total number of IOC members to 107 and the proportion of women in the IOC membership to 41.1 percent.

“This is in keeping with the IOC’s ambition to lead by example and increase female representation in governance structures,” said the IOC.

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Evidence Shows Hamas Militants Likely Used Some North Korean Weapons in Attack on Israel

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Associated Press

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19 October 2023, 13:27

Israel Palestinians North Korea Weapons — Suspected North Korean-made F-7 rocket-propelled grenades, many with a distinctive red stripe on their warhead, are seen at an Israeli military base in southern Israel, Sunday, Oct. 15, 2023. (AP Photo/ Alon Bernstein)

SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — Hamas fighters likely fired North Korean weapons during their Oct. 7 assault on Israel, a militant video and weapons seized by Israel show, despite Pyongyang’s denials that it sells arms to the militant group.

The video was analyzed by two experts on North Korean arms. Along with an Associated Press analysis of weapons captured on the battlefield and South Korean military intelligence, the video indicates that Hamas used the F-7 rocket-propelled grenade, a shoulder-fired weapon that fighters typically use against armored vehicles.

The evidence shines a light on the murky world of the illicit arms shipments that sanction-battered North Korea uses as a way to fund its arms programs.

Rocket-propelled grenade launchers fire a single warhead and can be quickly reloaded, making them valuable weapons for guerrilla forces in running skirmishes with heavy vehicles. The F-7 has been documented in Syria, Iraq, Lebanon and the Gaza Strip, said N.R. Jenzen-Jones, a weapons expert who works as the director of the consultancy Armament Research Services.

“North Korea has long supported Palestinian militant groups, and North Korean arms have previously been documented amongst interdicted supplies,” Jenzen-Jones told The Associated Press.

AP23291286759192 — FILE – North Korean soldiers stand on armored vehicles with rocket launchers as they parade in Pyongyang, North Korea on Oct. 10, 2015. (AP Photo/Wong Maye-E, File)

Hamas has published images of their training that show fighters with a weapon with a rocket-propelled grenade with a distinctive red stripe across its warhead, and other design elements matching the F-7, said Matt Schroeder, a senior researcher with Small Arms Survey who wrote a guide to Pyongyang’s light weapons.

“It is not a surprise to see North Korean weapons with Hamas,” Schroeder said.

The North Korean F-7 resembles the more widely distributed Soviet-era RPG-7 rocket-propelled grenade, with a few noticeable differences.

A militant video examined by the AP shows one fighter carrying the F-7. Weapons seized by the Israeli military and shown to journalists also included that red stripe and other design elements matching the F-7.

In a background briefing with journalists Tuesday, South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff specifically identified the F-7 as one of the North Korean weapons it believed Hamas used in the attack. The Israeli military declined to answer questions from the AP about the origin and the manufacturer of those rocket-propelled grenades, saying the ongoing war with Hamas prevented it from responding.

North Korea’s mission to the United Nations did not immediately respond to a request for comment from the AP. However, Pyongyang last week through its state-run KCNA news agency dismissed claims that Hamas used its weapons as “a groundless and false rumor” orchestrated by the United States.

AP23291636518706 — Smoke rises following an Israeli airstrike in the Gaza Strip, as seen from southern Israel, Wednesday, Oct. 18, 2023. (AP Photo/Francisco Seco)

Hamas propaganda videos and photos previously have shown its fighters with North Korea’s Bulsae guided anti-tank missile. Jenzen-Jones said he believed, based on imagery of the weapons wielded by Hamas fighters, they also used North Korea’s Type 58 self-loading rifle, a variant of the Kalashnikov assault rifle.

Iran also has modeled some of its ballistic missiles after North Korean variants.

Iran’s mission to the United Nations did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Officials in Iran long have supported Hamas and have praised their assault on Israel.

In December 2009, Thai authorities grounded a North Korean cargo plane reportedly carrying 35 tons of conventional arms, including rockets and rocket-propelled grenades, as it made a refueling stop at a Bangkok airport. Thai officials then said the weapons were headed to Iran. The United States later said in 2012 the shipments interdicted by the Thais had been bound for Hamas.

North Korea also faces Western suspicions that it supplies ammunition, artillery shells and rockets to Russia to support of its war on Ukraine. The White House said last week that North Korea recently delivered more than 1,000 containers of military equipment and munitions to Russia.

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Srettha Thavisin delivers the “Green Silk Road” speech at BRF

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Khaosod English

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18 October 2023, 22:32

Thailand’s Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin made a speech at the High-Level Forum “Green Silk Road for Harmony with Nature” during the 3rd Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation (BRF), which took place on October 18, 2023, at the China National Convention Centre (CNCC) in Beijing.

The government released his statement as follows:

On the 10th anniversary of the Belt and Road Initiative, I commend China for the achievements made under the BRI. This globe-spanning infrastructure project, which is still in its early stage, has already brought prosperity to millions of people around the world. Therefore, I am honored to attend this 3rd Belt and Road Forum and forge closer partnerships with our friends and allies.

More than ever, our countries need to connect as the world is facing challenges, from pandemic to economic recession, climate change and loss of biodiversity. These result from the decline of harmony between human and nature.

In this spirit, I aim to contribute to the conversations at this High-Level Forum because Thailand is a firm believer in the sustainability agenda. We believe that a “greener” development is necessary to advance the BRI towards a “High-Quality Belt and Road Cooperation” for “Common Development and Prosperity”. Since BRI is so monumental in both scope and span, we hope that this will help spread and accelerate actions towards sustainability.

Thailand, despite being a small nation, aims to take lessons from this project and implement it within our nation. Just recently, the Thai Cabinet affirmed the study and implementation plan for the Land Bridge project.

This project will connect the Andaman Sea and the Indian Ocean to the Gulf of Thailand and the Pacific Ocean, improving connectivity in the southern Andaman region.

This will reduce the commute time going through the Strait of Malacca under the logistic operation idea of “one port, two sides” across a land distance of 90 kilometers in Southern Thailand.

We hope that this will work in harmony with BRI infrastructure and help connect the world.

Thailand has also long promoted sustainable development in the international arena. Since 2016, Thailand has served as the ASEAN Coordinator on Sustainable Development Cooperation. In this role, Thailand has promoted collaboration not only within ASEAN but also served as a bridge with external partners.

Most recently, we reached 2 key milestones at the APEC Summit: First, the Bangkok Goals on Bio-Circular-Green Economy were adopted as APEC’s first comprehensive framework to advance the sustainability agenda in a transformative manner. Second, the APEC BCG Awards, initiated by Thailand and financially supported by China, were launched to raise public awareness and inclusivity among member economies.

To realize the vision of a Green Silk Road for Harmony with Nature, I propose a few priorities for our actions:

First, we must implement green transition across sectors, and promote sustainable production and consumption through all economic activities. This includes transportation, energy, and infrastructure. New technologies and digital transformation can greatly help green transition, although responsible use and equitable access must be ensured.

On our part, Thailand is actively implementing our Long-term Low Greenhouse Gas Emission Development Strategy. We have realigned our National Energy Plan in shifting consumption to clean energy, and promote energy efficiency. We aim to increase the production of Zero Emission Vehicles to 30 per cent by 2030, while encouraging foreign investment in the Electric Vehicle sector. We also plan to scale up sustainable agronomy to reduce climate change vulnerability and improve farmers’ well-being.

I am optimistic that these policies will help us reach our national targets to reduce 40 per cent of greenhouse gas emission by 2030, to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050, and net-zero emission by 2065.

Second, we must recognize the importance of environment and ecosystem conservation. Thailand aims to expand green areas up to 55 per cent of the country’s total area. As for marine and coastal biodiversity, Thailand is committed to the “30 by 30 Target” for protected areas, per our pledge during COP CBD in December 2022. We believe that sustainable blue economy will be crucial to achieve a Green Maritime Silk Road.

Third, Green Finance Mechanism is an indispensable tool for a green transition. So far, we have raised 12.5 billion US dollars through the issuance of Sustainability Bond to fund multiple sustainable projects. Soon, we will introduce Sustainability Linked Bonds to stimulate the growth of green bonds market. This will incentivize all entities as well as support the private sector and MSMEs to engage in eco-friendly businesses.

My fourth and final point is that we need to foster our cooperation and commitment to multilateralism. Multilateral frameworks provide opportunities for collaboration, building partnerships, sharing knowledge and stimulating innovations for the welfare of the people.

Therefore, let us continue working together under the BRI and create partnerships that generate sustainable, inclusive, and equitable growth for all.

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How to Choose the Perfect Family Resort in Phuket, Thailand

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Contributor

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18 October 2023, 18:57

Nestled amidst the shimmering waters of the Andaman Sea is the island of Phuket in Southern Thailand, filled with natural attractions to explore and cultural experiences waiting to be had. With an abundance of resorts sprawled across its pristine shores, how does one pick the perfect place for a memorable family getaway? Here are handy tips to consider when choosing a family resort in Phuket, Thailand.

1. Rooms Designed with Families in Mind
Space is a luxury when vacationing with family. Seek out accommodations that offer spacious family rooms or interconnected options. Picture ocean-view suites where you can watch the sunset together or rooms that open up to lush gardens where kids can play freely.

2. Child-Friendly Amenities Take Center Stage
First and foremost, a resort that caters to their young guests sets the foundation for a hassle-free vacation. Seek out resorts with dedicated kids’ clubs, where a plethora of fun-filled activities await. Think along the lines of arts and craft sessions, water sports, or even Thai cultural classes tailored for children.

3. Dining Delights for All Ages
A resort that offers an array of dining options ensures that everyone in the family, including picky eaters, is catered to. Picture scrumptious breakfast buffets, beachside barbecues, Thai cuisine menus, and kid-friendly menus crafted by talented culinary teams.

4. Engaging Activities for All
While the little ones immerse themselves in games, adults should have their share of leisure and adventure. From rejuvenating spa sessions to exhilarating water sports or cultural excursions, the perfect resort offers a balanced mix of activities, ensuring every family member finds their slice of paradise.

5. Safety and Convenience
When traveling with family, safety should never be a compromise. Opt for resorts that prioritize guest safety, from supervised kids’ areas to lifeguard-patrolled pools. Moreover, a prime location nearby popular beach destinations like Karon Beach, allows families easy access to explore Phuket’s myriad attractions while providing a tranquil retreat away from the bustling crowds.

6. Genuine Reviews and Recommendations
Last but certainly not least, delve into genuine guest reviews. When families rave about their unforgettable experiences, you’re on the right track. For instance, Thavorn Palm Beach Resort’s guest testimonials often highlight our warm hospitality, making the resort a trusted choice for many vacationers.

While Phuket’s beauty is undeniable, the essence of a memorable family vacation lies in the heart of the resort you choose. Choose the perfect blend of luxury, fun, and culture, ensuring your Phuket trip is nothing short of magical.

A Thai Undertaker Film, “Sup Pa Rer,” Is Thrilling Before Halloween

By

Khaosod English

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18 October 2023, 18:43

undertaker5 — "Sup Pa Rer," or The Undertaker 2023, celebrates earning more than 300 million baht.

It’s rare for Thai films to gross up to 300 million baht ($8.26 million) in their second week of release.

“Sup Pa Rer” or The Undertaker 2023 directed by Thiti Srinuan is a spin-off of the 2017 series “Thibaan The Series”, which was the talk of the town at the time for using the dialect of the northeastern region, Isan, throughout the film.

The success of “Sup Pa Rer” follows a similar path, driven by word-of-mouth recommendations from audiences. The movie reached 300 million baht in revenue on October 18, 2023.

undertaker3 — “Sup Pa Rer” or The Undertaker 2023

“Sup Pa Rer” was released in October, a typical month when Hollywood horror or ghost films dominate the cinemas. However, “Sup Pa Rer” offered a different atmosphere with a light-hearted and comedic style that did not focus on horror.

The film tells the story of Seang, a young Isan man who works as an undertaker and has a romantic relationship with Bai Khao. But their love story ends in sadness.

The success of the film raised the question of whether it was due to quality or simply luck.

Director Thiti Srinuan, known as “Tong Tae“,” said he could not change the view of those who see the success of the film as pure luck, but he believed that some aspects were expected while others exceeded expectations.

undertaker1 — Director Thiti Srinuan, known as “Tong Tae”

“Social media, word of mouth, all the trends together. There is some luck involved. I never expected this kind of feedback, because this film represents myself too much.”

He further explained that he wanted to use this film to talk about Isan beliefs, culture and traditions. He has tried to select these stories to tell to a wider audience. He said that sometimes they like it and sometimes they don’t. But he researched all the information himself and tried to understand it.

“I felt like, wow, there is so much more to share from Isan. Now Isan has reached the mass media. In the past, Isan films were made for Isan. But now it’s about films that bring people closer to what it’s like to be Isan. People from other regions understand Isan better”.

undertaker2 — “Sup Pa Rer” seems like a ghost film, but it offers a different atmosphere with a lighthearted and comedic style that does not focus on horror.

He analyzed the popularity of the film and suggested that many factors played a role, including the timing of the film’s release. The film came out at a time when people were facing uncertainty, dealing with challenges and experiencing the crisis COVID -19. It seemed to offer people a way to reflect on life, death and the losses that everyone inevitably experiences.

The director concluded by saying, “The movie made me think of people I’ve lost. It might make others miss someone who has departed or feel that they’re tired, that they’re lost. But they might also remember someone and want to fight for that person. I miss, I yearn for this person. I want to fight for this person.”

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FarmInno (Thailand) Unveils Cutting-Edge Agricultural Solutions Revolutionizing Thai Agriculture for Smarter Future

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Contributor

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18 October 2023, 17:47

Bangkok – Having successfully established its brand and market presence across various regions in Thailand, FarmInno (Thailand), the pioneering agricultural technology business brand by Chia Tai Group, Thailand’s leading innovative agricultural company, has recently hosted FarmInno (Thailand) Exclusive Press Trip 2023.

This exclusive event, themed “Empowering Smart Agriculture through Innovative Solutions with FarmInno (Thailand),” offers distinguished press and media members a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the cutting-edge world of smart agricultural technology in which they have a chance to closely experience the operation of autonomous agricultural drones in Suphanburi Province. These experiences stand as a testament to Chia Tai’s unwavering commitment to spearheading the transformation of Thai cultivation towards smart agriculture.

FarmInno (Thailand) aims to transform the Thai agricultural industry through innovative technology and knowledge, paving the way for smart agriculture solutions with a mission to equip farmers with the essential tools and expertise to effectively overcome current challenges.

During the event, the participating press and media members gain insights on agricultural vision outlined by Chia Tai executives. They also have the opportunity to delve into the first-hand experiences of greenhouse farmers, drone pilots, and smart farmers.

Additionally, the event showcases the exceptional capabilities of agricultural drones from industry leaders, which are XAG and DJI, offering a hands-on experience in controlling these drones. Ultimately, this exclusive press trip concludes with a visit to the thriving greenhouses of successful farmers who have embraced the agricultural solutions presented by FarmInno (Thailand).

Ms. Rata Suttimantanakul, General Manager, Agricultural Technology Business, said, “FarmInno (Thailand) made its debut as a brand just last year under the management of Chia Tai Co., Ltd. Our primary focus lies in elevating the standards of the Thai agriculture, with a strong emphasis on fostering the transition towards smart agriculture. We are committed to providing agricultural solutions that empower farmers to effectively tackle the diverse challenges in modern farming.

To illustrate, we now find ourselves confronted by the pressing issue of climate change. In fact, the unpredictable patterns of rainfall have a direct and adverse impact on the livelihoods of our fellow farmers. An equally critical challenge also lies in the ongoing trend of an aging population in Thailand, resulting in a continuous increase in the average age of Thai farmers and posing a potential threat to the future workforce in the agricultural sector.

Therefore, Chia Tai and FarmInno (Thailand) are exploring ways to address these challenges through the integration of digital solutions in agriculture. This includes the adoption of digital farming techniques aimed at improving both the quality and quantity of agricultural produce.

These efforts contribute to the advancement of FarmInno (Thailand) products and services, encompassing high-performance agricultural drones, smart agricultural greenhouses, and agricultural community platforms, all of which collectively drive the transformation of Thai agriculture into a smarter, more convenient, and highly efficient system.”

Mr. Thawin Inthakhan, General Manager, Commercial Department, added, “To enhance smart agriculture, FarmInno (Thailand) divides our products and services into two major categories. The first one is our innovative smart agricultural greenhouses. Beyond offering valuable knowledge on their operation, we also provide a comprehensive range of equipment, including structural materials, along with a suite of services encompassing consultation, design, cost estimation, and the complete construction and installation of the greenhouses, ensuring that farmers are well-prepared for their successful cultivation. The second category, which is our flagship offering, is our high-performance agricultural drones which open up opportunities for individuals of all backgrounds to engage in agriculture more easily, reducing the need for extensive labor while enhancing precision.

Designed for users of all groups, including men, women, and the elderly, our agricultural drones are user-friendly and ensure efficient operations. Essentially, our commitment goes beyond providing training on drone operation and maintenance as we also have a dedicated team of experts to offer diverse cultivation solutions. We have researched and tested the use of fertilizers and plant protection products in conjunction with drones, tailoring them to the specific growth phases and types of plants for optimal results. Besides, we will introduce several other agricultural solutions next year.”

This exclusive event not only serves as a rich source of information and knowledge about smart agriculture, but also presents a significant step in showcasing the firm commitment of Chia Tai and FarmInno (Thailand) towards the transformation of Thai agriculture into a smart and sustainable system. For those exploring further information about agricultural technology and updates on FarmInno (Thailand)’s agricultural activities, please visit www.facebook.com/FarmInnoThailand and www.chiataigroup.com.

Thai Youth: 17-Year-Old Launches Financial Literacy, Super Satang

By

Contributor

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18 October 2023, 17:46

Empowering Thailand’s Youth: 17-Year-Old Launches Super Satang, a Revolutionary Financial Literacy Platform

The crisis of financial literacy in Thailand has reached crisis proportions, with startling statistics revealing a perilous landscape. Alarmingly, household debt has risen to 85% of the nation’s GDP, and an astounding 76% of the population plays the lottery, frequently at the expense of their financial stability.

Against this bleak backdrop, Bangkok Patana School senior Krishaan Phlaphongphanich, age 17, has emerged as a catalyst for change by launching Super Satang, a revolutionary financial literacy platform.

Thailand’s Financial Literacy in Crisis: The Numbers Don’t Lie

According to the Bank of Thailand, a staggering 85 percent of Thailand’s GDP is attributed to household debt.
76% of the population plays the lottery, which contributes to the depletion of their financial resources.

Bridging the Financial Literacy Gap with Super Satang

Krishaan Phlaphongphanich embarked on a remarkable journey to establish Super Satang after recognizing the dire need for financial education in Thailand. He conducts weekly workshops for adolescents between the ages of 12 and 17 with the goal of equipping them with vital financial knowledge and skills.

Krishaan Phlaphongphanich organized a compelling half-day seminar titled “Cracking the Money Code” for college students and young professionals in collaboration with the National Innovation Association of Thailand. The event garnered an impressive turnout of nearly a hundred attendees, each driven by a resolute commitment to taking command of their financial futures.

Krishaan Phlaphongphanich states, “My passion for financial literacy stems from my unwavering conviction that anyone can realize their ambitions by mastering the art of making money work for them. This highlights the long-lasting effects of the pandemic on the workforce, emphasizing the significance of financial preparedness as an integral component of financial literacy by challenging societal norms that prevent minors from discussing money. He envisions a world in which financial literacy includes both psychological and economic aspects of money”.

“Growing up during the pandemic, I witnessed firsthand the devastation a lack of a financial safety net can have on people’s lives. Being prepared for the unexpected is a crucial aspect of financial literacy, but too many of us go through life without preserving for adversity.” – Krishaan Phlaphongphanich quotes

“Money is not merely a matter of numbers; it is profoundly personal and connected to our emotions. My approach to teaching financial literacy involves examining both the emotional and economic aspects of money in order to make it less intimidating and more relatable.” – Krishaan Phlaphongphanich quotes

The Power of Knowledge: A Novel of Financial Literacy

Krishaan Phlaphongphanich’s commitment to financial education has reached new heights with the publication of “Follow the Coin,” a groundbreaking financial literacy adventure novel aimed at readers aged 12 and older. The novel has been praised not only by its intended audience, but also by adults who have gained profound insights into financial management.

Krishaan’s ultimate goal is for his novel to be required reading in school curricula, thereby elevating financial literacy to a pillar of education. While not everyone needs to understand complex subjects such as geography or calculus, he insists that everyone must learn how to effectively manage their finances.

Through Super Satang, Krishaan Phlaphongphanich is igniting a financial education revolution that promises to empower and transform the financial destinies of Thailand’s youth. His unwavering commitment to this cause serves as an example for youthful leaders everywhere.

Jirayut (Topp) Srupsrisopa, Founder and Group CEO of Bitkub Capital Group Holdings Co., Ltd., has endorsed this initiative.

Featuring a heartfelt foreword by K. Topp Jirayut Srupsrisopa, who unreservedly endorses the influence of ‘Follow the Coin.’ He aptly observes, ‘From the curious minds of the young to the seasoned wisdom of the experienced, the lessons within these pages resonate profoundly,” he states; “”In a world where money wields its power, financial literacy stands as an elusive beacon of knowledge, guiding individuals towards prosperity and stability.

At its core, this book is a profound testament to the power of knowledge and the strength that emanates from embracing the wisdom of financial literacy. It reminds us that the ability to make informed choices with our resources can unlock boundless opportunities, enabling us to shape our lives according to our aspirations and dreams.

About Krishaan Phlaphongphanich

Krishaan Phlaphongphanich is a 17-year-old student at Bangkok Patana School who is passionate about financial literacy. Recognizing the need for improved financial education in Thailand, he founded Super Satang to empower young people with the knowledge and skills to make informed financial decisions. Krishaan believes that everyone can achieve their dreams by understanding how to make money work for them, and he is committed to making financial literacy a core part of education in Thailand.

“Blue Tree Phuket” Achieves 5-Star STGs Recognition from TAT and Continues to Strive for Net Zero Tourism by Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions

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Contributor

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18 October 2023, 17:26

Due to the impacts of the greenhouse effect, which have led to increasingly severe climate changes worldwide, the global population has shifted its focus towards reducing greenhouse gas emissions by adopting alternative energy sources such as solar energy, wind energy, and hydropower.

These measures also include finding and promoting the use of alternative materials instead of wood, recycling paper and other packaging materials and increasing green areas by planting trees to replace deforested forests.

A comprehensive Entertainment Hub, “Blue Tree Phuket,” is one of the organizations that is highly committed to raising awareness and taking action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the future with the aim of becoming a truly sustainable tourism destination. Most recently, Blue Tree Phuket has received a 5-star certificate from the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) through its Sustainable Tourism Acceleration Rating (STAR) program. This program, conducted by TAT to elevate businesses to sustainable tourism standards, recognizes the entertainment hub for its commitment to 12 out of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (STGs).

Mr. Johan Wallen, the General Manager of Blue Tree Phuket, said: “Blue Tree Phuket has policies and work practices that are environmentally friendly throughout. Whether it’s waste management, the use of clean energy, water management with technology, the selection of biodegradable products, or community education about plastic management, these practices have enabled us to meet the criteria for the Sustainable Tourism Acceleration Rating (STAR) program, earning a ‘5-STAR symbol of sustainability.’ This assessment is based on the 17 Sustainable Tourism Goals (STGs) covering four dimensions: economic, social, environmental, and good governance. This time, we have achieved 12 out of 17 goals, demonstrating our readiness and determination to become a sustainable Entertainment Hub for tourism, both now and in the future.

The STGs is the strategy that has developed from the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) which consists of 17 goals that adapted for the context of Thai tourism. Blue Tree Phuket has managed to achieve 12 of these goals, which include:

STGs2: Promoting sustainable food systems in the tourism industry: transitioning from local sourcing to waste management.
STGs3: Promoting tourism that supports health, well-being, and quality of life at all ages.
STGs4: Promoting and enhancing education in sustainable tourism: necessary understanding and skills to drive sustainable tourism.
STGs5: Promoting gender equality in every business of tourism industry.
STGs6: Ensuring sustainable access to clean water, water management and sustainable sanitation in tourism destinations.
STG7: Expanding access to and improving the efficiency of clean energy use in the tourism sector.
STGs10: Reducing inequalities in employment for people with disabilities and considering equality of all tourist groups.
STGs12: Promoting sustainable tourism in all its dimensions.
STGs13: Focusing on reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the tourism sector and promoting adaptation to climate change.
STGs14: Promoting and safeguarding marine and coastal ecosystems.
STGs16: Ensuring safety in the tourism sector.
STGs 17: Achieving STGs through multi-sectoral collaboration.

Moreover, Blue Tree Phuket has participated in the Less Emission Support Scheme (LESS) project initiated by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment where the Office of Natural Resources and Environmental Policy and Planning (ONEP) evaluates the reduced greenhouse gas emissions. In 2022, Blue Tree Phuket achieved a reduction of 38,315 carbon dioxide equivalent tons from waste separation and recycling activities. In 2023, it reached a reduction of 55,721 carbon dioxide equivalent tons from waste separation and recycling activities and from the production of electricity from renewable energy for self-consumption.

“Under this environmentally-focused dedication, we believe we are part of driving the strategy to promote Thai tourism toward the Net Zero Tourism goal, thus elevating efforts to combat global warming. This is expected to play a crucial role in the decision-making of future visitors in choosing our services,” concluded Mr. Wallen.

More on STGs is available at https://www.tatstar.org/about/

For more information, call 076-602435 or visit www.bluetree.fun/

#บลูทรี #ภูเก็ต #บลูทรีภูเก็ต #BlueTree #Phuket #BlueTreePhuket

#Entertainmenthub #ThrillandChill #DayandNight

#NetZeroTourism #SustainableTourismAccelerationRating

#ททท #ท่องเที่ยวลดโลกร้อน #STGs #STAR #Sustainable

Police Investigate a Student’s Death After Being Scammed Into Buying iPhone

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Khaosod English

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18 October 2023, 16:38

A funeral of a student who took her own life after she was scammed into transferring money worth nearly 20,000 baht online to buy an iPhone 13

Cybercrime police are investigating the case of a student who took her own life after she was tricked into transferring money of nearly 20,000 baht online to buy an iPhone 13.

Pol. Lt. Gen. Torsak Sukwimol, commissioner-general of the Royal Thai Police, has ordered that the case be referred from Nakhon Si Thammarat province to the police’s central cybercrime division for investigation.

Ploy, 19 years old, a grade 12 student at Pak Phanang School in Pak Phanang district, Nakhon Si Thammarat province, wrote a suicide note to her mother saying “I was being stupid” for being scammed and apologized for the trouble she had caused by asking her to help her get back some of the money she had borrowed from a friend.

Pol. Lt. Gen. Worrawat Watnakornbancha, Superintendent of the Cybercrime Department, said that this case is very disturbing. The Cybercrime Police, together with the local police in Ko Tohd District, have set up a war room to identify the culprit.

They have collected all information on financial transactions, including data from Facebook and phone network information, to establish the true identity of the account holder.

The investigation is proceeding rapidly, and the police aim to locate and arrest the suspect within the next two days.

According to the inquiry, the student contacted the company through the Facebook page Hannah Shop Mobile, which claims to be situated in Mae Sai District, Chiang Rai Province, to buy an iPhone 13. This page uses a photo of a phone shop in Nakhon Sawan province and edits it into a photo of their shop in Chiang Rai in order to defraud the student.

The scammer gang duped the student into transferring the down payment four times on October 15: once at 11:48 a.m. for 5,500 baht, once at 12:10 a.m. for 5,500 baht, once at 1:20 p.m. for 5,500 baht, and once at 2:07 p.m. for 2,200 baht, totaling 18,500 baht.

The scammers exploited four mule accounts, the first of which belonged to Miss Dokkaew, 22, of Chaiyaphum province. She’s being held for questioning. The other three individuals are in Chiang Rai province: two females ages 18 and 20, and a man, age 19. They are wanted for questioning.

“I would like to advise our youth that if you have been scammed and are feeling stress or sadness, feel trapped and see no way out, please contact the cybercrime police to work together to find a solution. The police will assist you to the best of their ability,” Pol. Lt. Gen. Worrawat said.

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‘Daniel Caesar’ to Bring Back His R&B Beats to Bangkok This December

By

Khaosod English

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18 October 2023, 16:00

BANGKOK — Will it be the “Best Part” of December? Canadian R&B singer Daniel Caesar will perform in Bangkok this December.

As part of his Superpowers World Tour, Caesar’s gig will take place at Impact Muang Thong Thani on December 9. Pre-sale tickets will go on sale online from 10am on October 29 and will cost between 1,500 to 3,500 baht. General ticket sales will begin the next day.

Caesar will kick-start the third leg of his ongoing tour in Australia this November, before heading to Asia and Hawaii in December. This leg followed his previous shows in North America in October. The concert will be the second time he performs in Bangkok after his first live show in the capital in 2019.

Born Ashton Simmonds, the 28-year-old Grammy Awards winner released his first studio album “Freudian” in 2017, which was nominated for the Best R&B Album at the Grammy in 2018. At the 61st Annual Grammy Awards in the year after, he eventually won Best R&B Performance for his single “Best Part.”

The ongoing tour follows his latest studio album “Never Enough,” released in April, which include hits such as “Always” and “Do You Like Me?”

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