On World Children’s Day, Marriott International and UNICEF Expand “Check Out for Children”

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21 November 2023, 17:42

Marriott Relaunches and Expands its Donation Program in the Caribbean, Latin America, Europe, Middle East and Asia Pacific by raising over $50M for UNICEF over the course of nearly three decades, benefiting more than 4.5M children worldwide.

BETHESDA, MD, NOVEMBER 20, 2023 – In recognition of World Children’s Day, Marriott International announced it is working together with UNICEF to relaunch and expand its donation program “Check Out for Children.” The program—which invites guests to make a voluntary donation for each night of their stay—is now live in over 500 properties across 40 countries in Marriott’s Caribbean, Latin America (CALA), Europe, Middle East, Africa (EMEA) and Asia Pacific excluding China (APEC) regions.

Over the course of nearly three decades, hotels in the company’s portfolio have helped Marriott raise over $50M for UNICEF, benefiting more than 4.5M children worldwide, mainly through the Check Out for Children donation program. With the program’s official relaunch in February 2023, Check Out for Children has generated over $250,000 in further support for UNICEF. Additionally, since 2022, Marriott, along with the Marriott Disaster Relief Fund, Marriott Bonvoy and Marriott guests, have contributed over $1.3M to UNICEF.

These contributions have gone toward responding to some of the world’s most severe challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic, natural disasters and humanitarian crises as well as providing ongoing care for the world’s most vulnerable children.

“Marriott is proud to continue its legacy of serving our world in collaboration with UNICEF,” said David Marriott, Chairman of the Board, Marriott International. “Since 1995, we have worked with UNICEF to provide much needed funding for youth health and nutrition, safe water and sanitation, quality education and skill building, and the protection and care of children in the face of natural disaster. The Check Out for Children program is an incredible opportunity for our guests and our hotels to support UNICEF’s relentless pursuit of bettering the lives of children around the world.”

Marriott’s Check Out for Children program helps fund UNICEF’s ongoing efforts to make a better world for every child in over 190 countries and territories. The program invites guests to make a voluntary donation to their bill at check-in, with the option to remove or modify the donation at any time during their stay. Donations will be used to help further UNICEF’s work across the regions through initiatives like creating safe and clean environments for children in CALA; providing access to education in APEC; and helping protect refugees and advocate for children with disabilities in EMEA.

“For nearly 30 years, Check Out for Children has raised funds to support UNICEF’s work to protect the rights of every child. Our partnership with Marriott International is helping UNICEF reach children wherever and whenever the need is greatest,” said Carla Haddad Mardini, Director of Private Fundraising and Partnerships, UNICEF. “We are grateful for the innovative way in which Marriott has invited its guests to learn more about UNICEF and support our work to meet children’s needs throughout every stage of childhood and adolescence, including being there before, during and after emergencies, providing vital assistance.”

As part of Marriott’s Serve 360 sustainability and social impact platform, the Check Out for Children program reflects the company’s larger commitment to Nurture Our World, making the communities where Marriott operates better places to live, work, and visit.

To learn more about the Check Out for Children program visit https://serve360.marriott.com/nurture/unicef-checkout-for-children

Thailand’s Cabinet Approves A Marriage Equality Bill To Grant Same-sex Couples Equal Rights

By

Associated Press

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21 November 2023, 17:18

LGBTQI — FILE - Women kiss while holding a poster to support marriage equality, during a Pride Parade in Bangkok, Thailand, on June 4, 2023. Photo: Sakchai Lalit / AP File

BANGKOK (AP) — Thailand’s Cabinet on Tuesday approved an amendment to its civil code to allow same-sex marriage, with an expectation for the draft to be submitted to Parliament next month.

Karom Polpornklang, a deputy government spokesperson, said the amendment to the Civil and Commercial Code will change the words “men and women” and “husband and wife” to “individuals” and “marriage partners” for same-sex couples to be able to receive the same rights that heterosexual couples receive.

He said the law would guarantee the right to form a family in a relationship between same-sex couples, adding that the next step will be an amendment to the pension fund law to recognize same-sex couples as well.

AP23325298115004 — FILE – Participants hold a rainbow flag during a Pride Parade in Bangkok, Thailand, on June 4, 2023. Thailand’s Cabinet on Tuesday, Nov. 21, approved an amendment to its civil code to allow same-sex marriage, with an expectation for the draft to be submitted to Parliament next month. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit, File)

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin told reporters that the draft law is expected to be proposed to Parliament on Dec. 12. If it becomes law after Parliament’s approval and King Maha Vajiralongkorn’s endorsement, Thailand will be the third place in Asia, after Taiwan and Nepal, to allow same-sex marriage.

While famous for being an LGBTQ+ friendly country, Thailand has struggled to pass a marriage equality law. Parliament last year debated several legal amendments to allow either marriage equality or civil unions, which do not grant same-sex couples all the same rights as heterosexual couples. All of the bills failed to be passed before the parliamentary session of the previous government ended.

The new government led by the Pheu Thai party, which took office in August, revived the attempt to pass a marriage equality bill, which it had promised during its election campaign.

An Indian Man Kills His Thai Girlfriend in Pattaya Before Jumping off a Bridge

By

Khaosod English

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21 November 2023, 14:39

india kill thai1 — The police officers discover the lifeless body of a Thai woman, aged 25, inside the Pattaya hotel's room before midnight on November 20, 2023.

PATTAYA – Pattaya police received a report that an Indian man had killed his Thai girlfriend at a hotel in Nong Prue sub-district, Bang Lamung district, Chonburi, before midnight on November 20.

Police officers, investigative units, Pattaya Tourist Police and Immigration Police jointly investigated room 313 on the third floor of a building where they discovered the lifeless body of Ms. Jirapha Wongputkham, aged 25, with signs of strangulation with a shoelace around her neck. There was also evidence of a struggle and scattered belongings in the room.

Pol. Col. Thanapong Photi, Superintendent of Pattaya City Police Station, said that the suspect, Mr. Narendra Soni, 36 years old and an Indian national, fled the scene in the direction of Bangkok. Pattaya police coordinated with neighbouring police stations and set up checkpoints to arrest the suspect based on descriptions from witnesses. At the same time, the deceased’s relatives tried to persuade him to turn himself in for trial.

Later, in the early morning of November 21, it was reported that Narendra had informed the relatives that he wanted to jump off a bridge over the Bang Pakong River to end his life, following his Thai girlfriend.

The police were called in to help control the situation. However, when they approached the reported location, the Indian man had already jumped off the bridge. Authorities searched for his body in the Bang Pakong River.

india kill thai3 — Bang Pakong Police Station in Chachoengsao, together with a rescue team, found the body of Narendra in the Bang Pakong River in the morning of November 21, 2023.

Ms. Parawadee Saetern, 47, an aunt of the Thai victim, said her niece had been in a relationship with the Indian man for about a year. Before the incident, they had arranged to meet in the hotel room to discuss their relationship. After that, however, there was no further communication. Concerned relatives went to investigate and discovered the tragic scene.

Subsequently, at 8:00 am, Bang Pakong Police Station in Chachoengsao together with a rescue team found the body of Narendra in the Bang Pakong River, near Ban Bang Pakong, Moo 9, Bang Pakong District. The rescue team recovered the body and confirmed the identity. Pattaya Police have been notified to contact the next of kin for further action.

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ONYX Hospitality Group Shines Bright at ITB Asia 2023, Unveiling Its Potential

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Contributor

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21 November 2023, 10:21

The company is solidifying its role as a leader in the Southeast Asian hospitality industry and is collaborating with partners to advance toward sustainable growth.

Bangkok, Thailand 2023 – ONYX Hospitality Group, a reputable force in Southeast Asia’s hospitality industry, operates a collection of comprehensive yet complementary brands – Amari, OZO, Shama, and Oriental Residence – across Asia Pacific, catering to the distinctive needs of discerning business and leisure travellers in Southeast Asia where their expertise lies, actively participated in the largest travel industry trade show in Asia, ITB Asia 2023, which took place from October 25 to 27 at the Sands Expo and Convention Center in Singapore.

ITB Asia, the premier business-to-business (B2B) travel and tourism trade show in Asia, gathered a multitude of prominent figures within the regional tourism sector. ONYX Hospitality Group’s participation in ITB Asia 2023 presented a valuable opportunity to extend its business network and fortify partnerships. These partnerships aim to collectively stimulate and propel the region’s tourism industry towards steady and sustainable growth.

Participating in this event enabled ONYX Hospitality Group to share its vision of success with fellow industry leaders. This exchange focused on ensuring the quality and standards of hotels, resorts, and serviced apartments within the network, as well as discussing strategies for enhancing and expanding investments in the hospitality business. All these efforts are aimed to solidify its position as “The Best Medium-sized Hospitality Management Company in Southeast Asia.”

Yuthachai Charanachitta, CEO of ONYX Hospitality Group, shared his thoughts on the company’s involvement in ITB Asia 2023, stating, “Our aim is to showcase our unwavering commitment to establishing benchmarks in the hospitality sector and our ongoing expansion within the region.

With over 50 years of experience in the industry, ONYX Hospitality Group is not only dedicated to delivering an exceptional guest experience but is also deeply committed to fostering sustainable growth in terms of business, society, and the environment by employing a diverse range of strategies and activities.

Furthermore, we are in a constant state of development as we strive to establish a leadership position in the MICE market, which encompasses Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions. Simultaneously, in another facet of our operations, we persistently extend our investments to foster growth, even in the face of intense competition within the Southeast Asian hotel industry.”

During this event, Mr. Yuthachai had the privilege of being a distinguished guest on the MICE Leaders’ Panel, where he shared insights and expertise on the topic “The Power of Many – Collaborations for Success in the MICE Ecosystem.” This panel discussion took place on October 25th.

As part of its key strategies, ONYX Hospitality Group has introduced an approach aimed at establishing connections with industry partners, emphasizing a profound commitment to a ‘Tailored Approach to Hospitality.’

This approach has been central to their business development and serves as a guiding principle in their collaborations with partners and alliances over the past period. As a result, the company has gained the trust of esteemed trade partners, both on a domestic and international scale, fostering their successful and sustainable business ventures.

Presently, ONYX Hospitality Group oversees the management of 44 hotels, resorts, and serviced apartments across Thailand, Malaysia, China including Hong Kong, Maldives, Bangladesh, and Laos. These properties fall under the banner of four main brands, namely Amari, OZO, Shama, and Oriental Residence, all of which are renowned regionally and globally.

The company has outlined plans to expand its investments to encompass over 50 properties by 2025, with a further target of reaching 70 properties by 2028. In the forthcoming years, particularly between 2023 and 2024, the focus will be on investment opportunities within Southeast Asia, specifically in key markets like Thailand and Malaysia.

Furthermore, the company is actively exploring prospects in markets such as Hong Kong, while also venturing into new territories like Indonesia and Singapore. This strategic expansion aims to drive consistent and substantial growth throughout the entire region.

Exciting developments are underway for ONYX Hospitality Group in 2023 with the opening of Amari Raaya Maldives, which welcomed its first guests in Q3 2023, and the eagerly anticipated Amari Colombo Sri Lanka set to open its doors in 2024. Additionally, the group has a further 9 properties in the pipeline, encompassing all three core brands: Amari, OZO, and Shama.

The MICE business, comprising Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions, holds a significant place in the strategic priorities of ONYX Hospitality Group. It is recognised as a key pillar for the company’s rapid growth. During ITB Asia 2023, ONYX Hospitality Group made a deliberate effort to showcase services and facilities adhering to international standards. This commitment ensures the seamless and modern organisation of MICE events, ensuring their success as intended.

Mr. Yuthachai highlighted the significance of the MICE business dimension presented at the event, stating, ‘It is widely recognised that the MICE business is gaining considerable momentum in the Asia Pacific region.

At ITB Asia 2023, ONYX Hospitality Group was, therefore, gearing up for a confident entry into the MICE market. We actively showcased our affiliated hotels and resorts, emphasising comprehensive and high-standard services and facilities tailored for MICE activities.

This approach captured the attention of MICE entrepreneurs. We are moving forward with full force to capitalise on this opportunity, aiming to deliver an impressive experience in organising MICE events for organisers and meeting planners throughout Asia.

At ITB Asia 2023, ONYX Hospitality Group showcased a special highlight—the unveiling of the newly renovated and rebranded Amari Bangkok. This launch symbolises the essence of being a hub, akin to the heart of a bustling city that never sleeps, much like the vibrant energy of Bangkok.

Building on a legacy of over 30 years as an iconic landmark in the heart of the business district, the newly renovated Amari Bangkok maintains a commitment to excellence in both location and service. Guided by the concept of ‘Brighten Your World,’ the hotel stands ready to greet visitors with a vibrant display of colour and vitality. This mirrors the brand’s mission to provide guests with life’s joyful moments.

The relaunch of Amari Bangkok Hotel brings a refreshed aesthetic to its rooms, featuring contemporary decor and upgraded amenities. Additionally, to accommodate diverse guest preferences, the hotel has introduced a range of new restaurants.

An exciting addition to the offerings is ‘maai spa,’ a premium spa with a unique concept inspired by Thai silk, set to commence services at Amari Bangkok Hotel in 2024. This transformation is driven by the goal of establishing Amari Bangkok Hotel as a premier destination for travellers, catering to those seeking a tranquil retreat, embarking on business travel, or engaging in MICE-related activities.

Amari Bangkok Hotel goes beyond providing complete convenience. Offering 19 versatile spaces for meetings, seminars, and MICE events, including the well-decorated, spacious grand ballroom, it stands out as one of the top choices for hosting such gatherings in the heart of Bangkok.

In addition to Amari Bangkok Hotel, ONYX Hospitality Group offers an array of exceptional projects in MICE organizing services and leisure travel. Notable mentions include Amari Don Muang Hotel, Amari Pattaya, Amari SPICE Penang, Amari Kuala Lumpur, and more. These offerings were showcased at ITB Asia 2023, emphasising the group’s commitment to delivering a wonderful guest experience and driving sustainable, positive growth in a dynamically competitive market.

EKKALUCK Unveils A Festive Season Filled With Creative Cuisine At Madi Paidi Bangkok

By

Contributor

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21 November 2023, 10:19

Chef Wuttisak “Wut” Wuttiamporn to surprise and delight diners
with a trio of exciting epicurean experiences for Christmas and New Year

Bangkok, Thailand – EKKALUCK, the innovative dining destination at Madi Paidi Bangkok, Autograph Collection, is inviting discerning local diners and international explorers to come together and enjoy a highly creative and cosmopolitan festive season, with a trio of culinary experiences that will immerse every guest in the magic of the holidays.

Chef Wuttisak “Wut” Wuttiamporn, whose avant-garde style is reimagining traditional Thai cuisine with a cosmopolitan touch, is now ready to help couples, families and friends elevate their Christmas and New Year to new heights at EKKALUCK.

On 24th December from 18:00 – 22:00 hrs, the “Christmas Eve Semi-buffet” will see Chef Wuttisak put his own unique, contemporary twist on a classic Christmas dinner. All ages can savor an extensive array of delicacies, including handcrafted Thai appetizers and salads, imported cold cuts and cheeses, succulent seafood on ice, soups, a live Bagel Station, and a Christmas Carving Station featuring turkey breast, honey-glazed ham with cloves, roasted lamb leg and more, plus a series of side dishes.

Guests can also choose two main courses from a selection that includes roasted pork tenderloin with cranberry glaze, Chef Wut’s signature shepherd’s pie, slow-cooked beef short ribs with vegetables & mashed potatoes, and many more. And of course, every meal ends on a sweet note with handcrafted desserts, such as Christmas pudding, stollen and yule log. All diners will be treated to a welcome drink and entertainment from a live saxophonist.

Then on 31st December from 18:00 – 22:00 hrs, couples and friends are invited to celebrate the last day of the year in style at EKKALUCK’s “New Year’s Eve 7-Course Set Dinner.” This sophisticated evening will transport guests on a gastronomic journey that showcases the finest local and imported ingredients.

Following a French Gillardeau oyster with caviar, diners can savor Carabineros carpaccio (Spanish red prawns) with Kumquat-shoyu vinaigrette, Korean chili & yuzu oil, and fresh Phuket lobster with orange & avocado salad. A sublime soup using Thai mushrooms from Mahrarakram and coconut milk from Chumphon will then be followed by a palate cleanser of Phetchaburi tamarind and longan honey from Chiang Mai.

Two mouth-watering main courses will highlight the finest produce from land and sea: pan-seared turbot with Ceylon spinach, seaweed caviar & tom kha beurre blanc or tenderloin wagyu beef with crispy cowslip creeper, foie gras and a red wine & truffle jus. Finally, this culinary journey concludes with a raspberry yoghurt panna cotta, made with milk from Chiang Mai. With a welcome glass of Champagne and live music from a saxophone and traditional Thai musical instruments, this enchanting evening will live long in the memory.

Then on 1st January 2024 from 11:00 – 15:00 hrs, diners can step into 2024 together at EKKALUCK with the “New Year Brunch.” This fantastic feast will be a celebration of family, friendship and flavors with an extensive array of succulent seafood on ice, a salad bar, cheeses and cold cuts.

Diners can choose from two main courses, freshly cooked on EKKALUCK’s charcoal grill, including wagyu flank steak, chicken breast, Australian lamb chops, river prawns, sea bass, grilled snow fish, or roasted cauliflower, all accompanied with sides and sauces. And of course, the Dessert Station will feature sumptuous sweets, organic ice creams and smooth sorbets.

The “Christmas Eve Buffet” is priced at THB 4,453++ per person, with an optional free-flow beverage package for THB 1,350++. The “New Year’s Eve 7-Course Set Dinner” is also available for THB 4,453++ per person, including one glass of Champagne and an optional wine-paring package for THB 1,500++, and the “New Year Brunch” is priced at THB 1,753++ per person, with free-flow Prosecco and Bloody Mary cocktails.

A 15% early bird discount is available for bookings made before 15th December (for the Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve events) or 20th December (for the New Year Brunch), and Marriott Bonvoy members get 10% off!

For more information and to book your table, call +66 (0) 2 127 5999, email [email protected] , or follow us on LINE @ekkaluckbangkok.

To learn more and to reserve an urban escape at Madi Paidi Bangkok, Autograph Collection, please visit http://www.madipaidibangkok.com/

Celebrate a Heartwarming Festive Season with Christmas & New Year Feasts at Reap Factory

By

Contributor

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21 November 2023, 10:12

BANGKOK, THAILAND – Courtyard by Marriott Bangkok Sukhumvit 20 is inviting guests and local residents to celebrate a heavenly holiday season with a choice of festive farmhouse buffets at Reap Factory, the international culinary marketplace. Enjoy stylish and highly social gastronomic experiences on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve, and an energizing New Year’s Day breakfast!

On Sunday 24th December 2023 (18:00-22:00 hrs), the “Christmas Eve Buffet” is a fun-filled family feast that will highlight the flavors of the festive season in an enchanting atmosphere. Loved ones can come together and tuck into a sumptuous selection of carved meats, such as roasted turkey, beef Wellington and honey-roasted ham, accompanied with plenty of side dishes and all the trimmings. Priced at THB 1,600++ per person, including soft drinks, tea and coffee.

This Christmas dinner will also showcase succulent seafood on ice, smoked salmon, soups and salads, and all ages will love the freshly-cooked pasta station and pizza corner. And of course, every meal can end on a sweet note with traditional desserts including Christmas cake, yule log, chocolate fondue and many more! With festive decorations, live music and a welcome glass of glühwein for every adult, this is a wonderful way to mark an enchanting time of year.

Then, on Sunday 31st December 2023 (18:00-22:00 hrs), the “New Year’s Eve Buffet” invites friends, families and couples to celebrate the end of 2023 in style. This immersive evening will transport diners on a global voyage with dishes from all around the world, served in a cozy farmhouse kitchen ambiance. Priced at THB 1,600++ per person, including soft drinks, tea and coffee.

Discover a vibrant salad bar, premium antipasti and home-baked breads, seafood on ice, sublime soups, Japanese delicacies, Italian treats, Thai flavors and more! Discerning diners can savor carved wagyu beef, crispy pork belly and leg of lamb, plus fresh seafood and prime meats cooked à la minute, and a live Thai noodle station.

As the clock ticks down to 2024 and a live DJ spins upbeat tunes, guests can end their meal with an extended spread of Thai and international desserts, including a live station with toasted bread and lava stuffing.

Finally, on Monday 1st January 2024, the “Lazy Breakfast Buffet” (06:00-12:00 hrs) will let guests step into an exciting new year together at Reap Factory. A special extended selection of morning delights, including energizing power dishes, will be accompanied by a welcome glass of sparkling wine and free-flow Bloody Mary cocktails. Priced at only THB 600++per person.

So, don’t miss the chance to celebrate a heartwarming holiday season with the most important people in your life – kids aged 6-11 years enjoy 50% off and children aged 5 and under dine for free!

Exclusive Early Bird and Club Marriott members get a special price at only THB 1,224++ per person. Exclusive discount is also offered for KTC VISA Card holders.

To book your place at these unmissable events, please click or email [email protected] or call +66 (0) 2127 5920.

B.Grimm Joins Forces with PETRONAS Lubricants International

By

Contributor

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21 November 2023, 10:07

B.Grimm joins forces with PETRONAS Lubricants International to explore and develop potential opportunities in Thailand and South East Asia Energy Market

Bangkok – B.Grimm Technologies and PETRONAS Lubricants International entered into a partnership to leverage mutual business strengths and capitalize opportunities to develop the lubricants market in Thailand. This partnership is a first step to future collaborations between B.Grimm and the PETRONAS Group on multiple avenues including new energy solutions in Thailand and the South East Asia market.

B.Grimm is a multinational conglomerate active in energy, industrial businesses, healthcare, digital solutions, lifestyle and capital investment. Its subsidiary, B.Grimm Power, provides power generation and renewable power supply to industrial estates in Thailand.

Meanwhile, PETRONAS Lubricants International (PLI) is the global lubricants manufacturing and marketing arm of PETRONAS, Malaysia’s global energy group. PLI manufactures and markets a full range of high-quality automotive and industrial lubricant products in over 100 markets internationally.

The partnership between B.Grimm and PLI marks a significant step towards embracing the energy transition and seizing growth opportunities in Thailand and South East Asia, by the two major energy players, headquartered in the East.

Mr. Kitti Pattanaleenakul, President of B.Grimm Industrial Businesses, emphasized that B.Grimm currently provides high-quality energy supplies and industrial solutions to various industrial estates across Thailand. These industrial customers require a substantial volume of lubricants for applications including manufacturing, construction, electricity generation, and more.

“B.Grimm recognizes the opportunity to collaborate with PETRONAS Lubricants International, a global expert in lubricants, to offer a comprehensive one-stop solution, covering lubricant supply and related services,” he said.

Mr. Khalid Latiff, Regional Managing Director Asia, PETRONAS Lubricants International commented, PETRONAS Lubricants International is proud to partner with B.Grimm as we continue to deliver innovative products and offerings to the Thailand market. For PETRONAS Lubricants, Thailand is a key strategic growth market as we expand our Fluid Technology Solutions™ offerings that will benefit our customers in the country.

“Being a renowned international brand, our cutting-edge high-performance products and service solutions have been very well received by Thai consumers over the years and we are excited with this strategic partnership with B.Grimm to further elevate our brand presence to the next level in the market.”

Mr. Udaya Kumar Kanapady, Group Industrial Managing Director, PETRONAS Lubricants International said, “Together with our partner, B.Grimm, we can understand specific market challenges, tailor right portfolio and service offerings for customers to serve the Thailand market better. Our focus is to help our customers build more resilient businesses through a deep understanding of our customers’ needs, delivering ever-increasing efficiency and long-term value through service improvements and constant technological innovation, for which B.Grimm Group, undoubtedly, is a capable partner to execute our vision.”

This strategic collaboration represents an important effort by the two companies to provide the best to the Thailand market for lubricants and industrial solutions. It serves as motivation and healthy competition for others to participate in responsible energy transition, ultimately benefiting both the industry and the environment.

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Thailand Bans Green Iguanas’ Import; Don’t Confuse with “Takong”

By

Khaosod English

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21 November 2023, 02:28

BANGKOK – Attaphon Charoenchansa, acting Director-General of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife, and Plant Conservation, announced on November 20 that due to the recent discovery of a large number of green iguanas roaming in natural areas in Lopburi province and causing damage to agricultural crops, there has been a rapid increase in their population, affecting the environment and ecosystems.

The iguanas found belong to several native species not originally from Thailand, and the cause of their occurrence in the wild is not yet clear.

The Department of National Parks has therefore announced that, with immediate effect, it will not consider licences for the import of wild animals protected by international treaties on endangered species. This applies in particular to the family of iguanas (family Iguanidae), order number 640, including all species of iguanas (Iguana spp.). This measure will be implemented as a control measure until further notice.

So far, 244 owners of green iguanas with a total of 3,419 animals have been reported, with the province of Chonburi having the highest number with 982 animals.

However, specialists claim that Thailand possesses native chameleons with green skin that resembles the green iguana. It is known as the “Takong,” or Chinese water dragon, and it is a protected wild animal in reptile category 41. It cannot be hunted or bred.

According to Dr. Jessada Denduangboriphan, lecturer at the Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, this may lead to the misunderstanding that “Takong” is a “green iguana” and so capture or injure it.

The following are some signs to tell the difference between two types of animals:

On the Takong’s both cheeks, the button will be white. The iguana, on the other hand, is likely to have a circle near its chin.

compare iguana — On the Takong’s both cheeks, the button will be white. The iguana, on the other hand, is likely to have a circle near its chin. (photo from @aorwiki)

2. The takong will be brushed down to the chest under the chin. Iguanas, on the other hand, have eye bags.

3. The Takong body’s back panel is dark green to black. Iguanas are green, and the panel’s end will be pink.

4. The Takong will eat tiny creatures such as crickets, grasshoppers, and occasionally worms as nourishment. Iguanas eat mostly fruits and vegetables.

In Thailand, Chinese water dragons are protected wild animals that are on the verge of extinction, but iguanas are controlled animals. As a result, people should be cautious and thoroughly check.

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A Gang Skinning Pythons for Export Is Arrested in Phichit

By

Khaosod English

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20 November 2023, 19:38

python skin1 — Five sheets of dried python skin

PHICHIT – Pythons can be found in general in Thailand. They help balance the ecosystem and are considered protected wild animals.

On November 20, police officers from the Natural Resources and Environmental Crime Suppression Division, or Greencop, and officials from Conservation Area Administration Office 12 (Nakhon Sawan), conducted a search in the area of Dong Pa Kham Subdistrict, Mueang District, Phichit Province, after receiving information about an illegal network dissecting pythons by skinning and selling them outside the country.

According to the search, Mrs. Sommai owns the target house. They found live pythons beneath the house. They were wrapped in blankets and tied in bags; 12 of them weighed between 11 and 15 kilogrammes each. In addition, the sacks included five sheets of dried python skin and the remains of four python bones. Mrs. Sommai was promptly arrested.

Mrs. Sommai claims that all the seized items belonged to her son-in-law and were prepared for for selling to international traffickers. But she has no idea who they are. She was transported to the Dong Pa Kham Police Station and charged with unlawful possession of protected wild animals and carcasses of protected species.

Pythons can be found in Thailand’s nature beside rivers. It is considered a protected wild animal because it benefits the ecosystem. They help in the control of mammalian populations such as rats. Officials warn that if there are no pythons in the area, the ecosystem will become unbalanced.

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Taiwanese Man’s Murder May Be Linked to Black Money Gang

By

Khaosod English

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20 November 2023, 18:33

taiwan safe2 — The police found counterfeit banknotes inside the safe of the Taiwanese man slain in Bangkok.

BANGKOK – The police noted that the features of counterfeit banknotes found inside the safe of the Taiwanese man slain in Bangkok matched those of the black money gang.

On November 20, police officers inspected two safes from the room of Chu Chiang Shen, 48, a Taiwanese man who was murdered at a hotel in Soi Udomsuk 17, Sukhumvit 103, Bang Na Subdistrict and District, Bangkok, on Nov. 16.

taiwan safe4 — The police brought two safes from the room of a Taiwanese man who was murdered at a hotel in Soi Udomsuk 17, Bangkok, on Nov. 16.

Inside a safe, counterfeit US dollar notes were discovered, as well as green and black paper cut to the size of a banknote and other equipment thought to be a device for counterfeiting banknotes. The other safe had been blanked.

The authorities observed similarities between the properties of counterfeit banknotes and the technology used to counterfeit banknotes and those of the black money gang.

Mr. Chu’s relatives witnessed the safe’s opening at Bangna Police Station and provided additional statements to investigators while contacting them to request that the Chu’s remains be taken to Bang Na Nok Temple for a religious ceremony before returning the ashes to Taiwan.

In this case, police arrested two foreign suspects, one from Myanmar and one from Cameroon. There are still two people who are being sought. Ms. Naphatsarada, a 31-year-old Thai woman from Ratchaburi Province, is one of them. Another person is a foreigner with dual nationalities from Vanuatu and Iran. He has fled Thailand since November 16, following the murder.

Mr. Chu’s sister informed detectives that she had no idea how so many counterfeit bills ended up in his brother’s a safe. She wants the authorities to find and apprehend all of the criminals, as well as locate Chu’s missing phone and tablet.

taiwan safe3 — The counterfeit banknotes

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