DeeMoney Launches “OWNDEE Movie” Along With Biggest Campaign

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18 July 2023, 17:28

Thailand’s Leading FinTech Company, DeeMoney, Launches “OWNDEE Movie” along with the “DeeMoney OWNDEE Win Tesla” Campaign, Offering Over THB 3.5 Million in Prizes

SawasdeeShop Co Ltd or DeeMoney, the foremost FinTech firm in Thailand, specializing in cross-border payments under the DeeMoney brand, is excited to announce the launch of the first movie advertisement, titled “OWNDEE Movie” as well as the biggest promotion of the year, “DeeMoney OWNDEE Win Tesla” campaign.

DeeMoney, operational since 2017, has achieved an impressive total transaction volume of USD 4 billion. The company has successfully facilitated over 7 million transactions, ensuring settlements to a vast network of over 1 million bank accounts, catering to the diverse needs of our valued customers.

DeeMoney is strategically positioned as a prominent cross-border gateway in Thailand,facilitating seamless processing of both inbound and outbound international payments. With an extensive selection of 26 available currencies, DeeMoney offers a diverse range of options for cross-border transactions. Moreover, the outbound services of DeeMoney extend to an impressive network of more than 43 countries, further enhancing its global reach.

Cross-border transactions and remittances play a vital role in bolstering the economic capacity of a nation. In this context, Thailand stands out, ranking among the top 20 countries worldwide in terms of both sending and receiving cross-border payments and remittances, according to data provided by the World Bank.

This positioning and extensive reach enable DeeMoney to serve as a reliable and efficient platform for individuals and businesses seeking international payment solutions, catering to the growing demands of global transactions and facilitating the smooth flow of funds across borders.

With the steadfast vision of becoming the go-to cross-border money transfer app, DeeMoney is embarking on an exciting mission to captivate its users and solidify its position in the industry. Commencing on today and running until November 30th, 2023, the DeeMoney OWNDEE Win Tesla campaign presents an incredible opportunity for app users to win multiple prizes with every transaction over THB 1,000.

The prize pool includes an impressive lineup featuring a Tesla Model 3, Honda Wave 110i New 2022, iPhone 14 Pro Max, AirPods Pro Gen2, and much more, with prizes worth over 3.5 million baht.

Mr. Aswin Phlaphongphanich, Co-Founder and CEO of DeeMoney, shared his vision for the brand, stating, “Our aim is to establish DeeMoney as the unrivaled leader in cross-border money transfers in Thailand, setting new benchmarks for international excellence. To achieve this ambitious goal, we are allocating a large marketing budget on a game-changing marketing campaign that will captivate the public’s attention and firmly establish our brand, products and services in their hearts and minds. We strive to become the trusted provider for international money transfers, fostering trust, and leaving an unforgettable impression on our valued customers.”

Ms. Rasmegh Srisethi, Co-Founder and Managing Director, added, “We are excited to unveil our strategic plans for strengthening the DeeMoney brand and enhancing the visibility of our exceptional money transfer products and services. By effectively reaching and engaging our target customers, clear communication plays a crucial role, which is why at the core of our approach lies our unique ‘OWNDEE’ strategy, which emphasizes better rate, faster and easier money transfers.

To achieve this, we are launching an engaging online advertising campaign that will effectively convey these key messages to the wider public. Furthermore, we are introducing a fun customer engagement activity and an impactful promotional campaign. We are confident that these initiatives will help customers become more familiar with us and better understand us, while we effectively reach them.”

Mr. Tanit Ruttjananthana, DeeMoney’s Chief Marketing Officer, spearheads this innovative marketing campaign, which will serve as a fundamental stepping stone for DeeMoney‘s debut, impressing customers and enhancing the customer satisfaction experience. This campaign aims to achieve 20% increase in brand recognition and boost total sales volume by 200%.

Noteworthy among the campaign highlights is the release of DeeMoney’s first movie advertisement, titled “OWNDEE Movie EP: Fast Global Money Transfers, Made Easy!” Directed by renowned director Pongsakarn Sonklin, whose impressive resume includes directing well-loved advertisements such as Ngern Tid Lor, Thai Life Insurance, GQ White, Air Asia, and more.

This 1.30 minute dramedy sheds light on consumer pain points regarding ordinary international money transfer services and demonstrates how DeeMoney can solve these problems. It emphasizes better rates, faster transfers, and easier transactions, highlighting DeeMoney‘s brand positioning and value.

Last but not least, to celebrate the campaign launch and engage with customers, DeeMoney invites social media enthusiasts and influencers to participate in the “#DeeMoneyOWNDEEChallenge,” a creative and production-of-movie challenge.

This initiative aims to create awareness among individuals in Thailand seeking reliable international money transfer and payment services, fostering a vibrant community.

Unleash your creativity and confidence by crafting your unique movie style, drawing inspiration from the “OWNDEE Movie.” By participating, you stand a chance to win incredible prizes worth over 150,000 THB. What’s more, seize the opportunity to showcase your exceptional movie on DeeMoney’s social media platforms.

Visit DeeMoney’s Facebook page and www.deemoney.com for more information about the DeeMoney OWNDEE Win Tesla campaign and the “#DeeMoneyOWNDEEChallenge“. Join us in revolutionizing the way people transfer money across borders. Together, let’s celebrate, build a strong community, and make history with DeeMoney.

Watch “OWNDEE” movie here:

Facebook Fanpage: https://fb.watch/lRMGTGXx0U/
YouTube: https://youtu.be/1bR3m898f5Y

It’s Official: Taylor Swift Has More No. 1 Albums Than Any Woman in History

By

Associated Press

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18 July 2023, 15:13

Music Taylor Swift Number 1 — FILE - Taylor Swift performs during "The Eras Tour," May 5, 2023, at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/George Walker IV, File)

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Congratulations are in order for Taylor Swift and her loyal fans, known as Swifties. The pop star officially has more No. 1 albums than any woman in history.

“Speak Now (Taylor’s Version)”, released earlier this month, is the third in her endeavor to re-record her first six albums, instigated by music manager Scooter Braun’s sale of her early catalog. It has officially debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200, becoming her 12th album to reach the top spot.

Previously, Barbra Streisand held the record, with 11 No. 1 albums.

AP23198726847086 — FILE – Taylor Swift arrives at the 65th annual Grammy Awards, Feb. 5, 2023, in Los Angeles. (Photo by Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP, File)

Swift ties Drake’s record of 12 No. 1 records, but sits just behind Jay-Z, who has 14 No. 1 albums to his name, and the Beatles, who have 19.

In addition to hitting this incredible milestone, Swift has 2023’s biggest album release to date, with 716,000 equivalent album units, according to Luminate. An impressive 506,600 are in traditional album sales (a combination of 410,000 physical and 96,600 digital sales.)

With those figures, Swift has dethroned country singer Morgan Wallen, whose album “One Thing at a Time” sold 501,000 units in its first week.

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MARIA SHERMAN reported from LOS ANGELES.

Digital Gambling Craze: Over 3 Million Thai Young Players Hooked!

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Khaosod English

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18 July 2023, 14:53

Police arrest online gambling suspects on an almost daily basis, including recent cases in which three influencers encouraged others to gamble.

The celebrities involved are Ms. Ladapa Ratchataarmornchote, also known as Cherry Samkok and her manager Mr. Kritsada Chanakhan, Ms. Papawi Chaimongkol or Oi the Kiss, Mr. Nipon Chitkla, an owner of the popular song Time Machine, and Ms. Jiranan Thongklaing, Nipon’s girlfriend.

The four suspects admitted their wrongdoing. The court in Nonthaburi Sub-District commuted half of the prison sentence, reducing it to 2 months for all four defendants. As the defendants have no previous convictions, it is considered appropriate to replace the prison sentence with a suspended sentence.

This decision will take effect immediately on July 17, 2023, as the defendant’s actions, according to an analysis of the circumstances of the case, could easily lead others, especially minors, to engage in gambling.

This case coincides with the findings of the Gambling Problem Education Center, which recently studied online gambling behavior among young people in 2023. The study found that within the last 12 months, about 32.3 percent, or nearly 3 million young people, participated in online gambling.

Associate Professor Dr. Nualnoi Trita, Director of the Gambling Problem Education Center, stated that the top 5 warning signs of problematic gambling behavior are:
1. Increasing the amount of money wagered to experience excitement, thrill, or the illusion of a chance to win.
2. Chasing losses by repeatedly returning to gambling in an attempt to recover lost money.
3. Gambling with larger amounts of money than one can afford to pay.
4. Feeling guilty about gambling or experiencing negative consequences resulting from gambling.
5. Recognizing that there may be a problem related to gambling.

In addition, it was found that around 23 per cent of young individuals engaging in online gambling fall into the category of problematic gamblers, requiring counseling and assistance from mental health experts. Within this group, there are approximately 112,000 adolescents aged 15-18 and 577,000 young adults aged 19-25 who are affected.

Australian Man and His Dog Rescued by Mexican Tuna Boat After Drifting 3 Months in the Pacific Ocean

By

Associated Press

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18 July 2023, 14:18

Mexico Lost at Sea — Australian Tim Shaddock and his dog Bella were aboard his incapacitated catamaran Aloha Toa some 1,200 miles from land when they were rescued. (Grupomar/Atun Tuny via AP)

MANZANILLO, Mexico (AP) — An Australian sailor who had been adrift at sea with his dog for three months has been rescued by a Mexican tuna boat in international waters, the fishing vessel’s owner said Monday.

Timothy Lyndsay Shaddock, 54, was aboard his incapacitated catamaran Aloha Toa in the Pacific about 1200 miles (1900 kilometers) from land when the crew of the boat from the Grupomar fleet spotted them, the company said in a statement.

The company said Shaddock and his dog Bella were in a “precarious” state when found, lacking provisions and shelter. The tuna boat’s crew gave them medical attention, food and hydration, it said.

AP23199083618106 — Bella the dog belonging to Australian Tim Shaddock rolls on the deck after both were rescued by a Mexican tuna boat in international waters. (Grupomar/Atun Tuny via AP)

Grupomar did not provide specific details on what day Shaddock was rescued or when he had started his voyage.

The tuna boat, captained by Oscar Meza Oregón, was expected to arrive in the Pacific coast port of Manzanillo on Tuesday with Shaddock and Bella.

Antonio Suárez Gutiérrez, Grupomar’s founder and president, said he was proud of his crew, praising them for their humanity in saving the life of someone in trouble.

AP23199104793275 — Australian Tim Shaddock sits with his dog Bella after being rescued by a Mexican tuna boat in international waters. (Grupomar/Atun Tuny via AP)

Shaddock told Australia’s Nine News television that he and his dog had survived on raw fish and rain water after a storm damaged his vessel and wiped out its electronics.

“I’ve been through a very difficult ordeal at sea and I’m just needing rest and good food because I’ve been alone at sea a long time,” a thin and bearded Shaddock said in video broadcast by Nine on Sunday night Australian time.

“Otherwise, I’m in very good health,” Shaddock added.

The Sydney resident and his dog had sailed from the Mexican city of La Paz for French Polynesia in April, but the voyage ended within weeks, Sydney’s The Daily Telegraph newspaper reported.

In photographs of the rescue provided by Grupomar to the AP, a smiling, bearded and thin Shaddock is seen with a blood pressure cuff around his arm, holding a box of pain medication inside the fishing boat’s cabin. In others, Bella is stretched out on the deck. The catamaran floated nearby without a visible sail.

AP23199106867412 — Australian Tim Shaddock (Grupomar/Atun Tuny via AP)

“I would try and find the happiness inside myself, and I found a lot of that alone at sea,” Shaddock said.

Part of that encounter with sailors from the María Delia was captured on video. They circle Shaddock’s bobbing catamaran, a flock of white seabirds perched on its double hulls as Shaddock scrambles to his feet in the stern. Bella wags her tail.

A crew member asks Shaddock if he speaks English, if he’s okay, and if he has any drugs or weapons on board. Shaddock initially just hoarsely repeats, “Thank you, thank you.”

But he’s coherent, welcomes them to inspect the boat, and hands over the knife dangling from his neck.

Grupomar, the company that owns the tuna boat, said its crew gave Shaddock and Bella food and medical attention.

Shaddock said the María Delia became his “land” and the crew his family.

He said a lesson he took from the experience was a feeling that “your family is everyone, and your family is all of nature.”

Bella was an immediate hit with the crew. Shaddock said he met the dog in Mexico, and even though he tried to find her a home on land she kept following him back to sea. “She’s a lot braver than I am, that’s for sure,” he said.

AP23199607898824 — The crew of the Mexican tuna boat “Maria Delia” pose for photos with Bella, the dog of Australian Timothy Lyndsay Shaddock, both of whom they rescued from a incapacitated catamaran in the Pacific Ocean, as they bring the pair to port in Manzanillo, Mexico, Tuesday, July. 18, 2023. (AP Photo/Fernando Llano)

Maybe that was why Bella wasn’t allowed to disembark Tuesday until Shaddock had driven away. The Australian had chosen Genaro Rosales, a fisherman from Mazatlan on the María Delia’s crew, to adopt Bella on condition that he took good care of her.

Shaddock planned to return to Australia to spend time with family and friends, but said that he enjoyed solitude. Still, he said, it might be a while before he goes back to sea.

People adrift at sea have occasionally survived much longer, but maritime accidents often do not end happily.

In 2014, a Salvadoran fisherman washed ashore on the tiny Pacific atoll of Ebon in the Marshall Islands after drifting at sea for 13 months. Jose Salvador Alvarenga left Mexico for a day of shark fishing in December 2012 and got lost during bad weather. He said he survived on fish, birds and turtles until his boat washed ashore 5,500 miles (8,850 kilometers) away.

In other cases, disabled boats are found without survivors, or are lost entirely.

AP23199642866266 — Australian Timothy Lyndsay Shaddock smiles as he speaks during a welcoming ceremony by Grupo Mar after being rescued from sea and arriving to port in Manzanillo, Mexico, Tuesday, July 18, 2023. (AP Photo/Fernando Llano)

Antonio Suárez, Grupomar’s president, said Tuesday that the voyage during which the María Delia rescued Shaddock may have been its final trip, because he is modernizing the company’s fleet and the boat is its smallest and more than 50 years old.

If so, it would be a “marvelous farewell, saving human lives,” Suárez said.

Shaddock hugged Suárez in gratitude, and Suárez invited him to go for a meal in celebration.

When asked what he would like to eat back on land, Shaddock, smiling and jovial as he slid into a waiting car, said “tuna sushi.”

Pheu Thai Will Nominate Srettha If Pita Fails to Get More Votes

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Khaosod English

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18 July 2023, 12:08

srettha-17july-1 — Pheu Thai Party PM candidate Srettha Thavisin

Move Forward Party leader Pita Limjaroenrat has insisted after eight party meeting Monday evening, July 17, 2023 that he would make way for a political ally, Pheu Thai Party to nominate new prime minister candidate if he cannot attract substantially more support for a second round of the bicameral votes on July 19. He said the new amount of support should be 344-345 votes.

If Pita is unable to do so, the opportunity will be given to Pheu Thai, which has the second most seats in the House of Representatives. It was assumed that Srettha Thavisin, a 60-year-old businessman, would be a new candidate.

pita pheuthai2 — Move Forward Party leader Pita Limjaroenrat talks to reporter after meeting in Bangkok, Thailand, Monday, July 17, 2023. / Khaosod Photo

Pheu Thai Party PM candidate Paetongtarn Shinawatra confirmed on Tuesday, July 18, that if Pita fails to become PM, Srettha Thavisin’s name will be nominated instead.

Paethongthan stated that she completely backs Srettha. He is a person who, if possible, can solve problems in a timely manner. It is useful for her to continue learning and developing herself.

Srettha said Monday he is ready to be nominated for the post of Thailand’s 30th prime minister, but that depends on the decision of the party’s executive committee. He stated it was necessary to form a new government soon to address economic problems and people’s living conditions.

However Pheu Thai Party members were worried the upcoming vote on the candidate for prime minister. It could lead to a situation of uncertainty within the Palang Pracharat Party, the opposition party, which could propose the name of Gen. Prawit Wongsuwan to run against Pita.

This could split the votes of senators, most of whom were appointed by the military junta, in favor of Gen. Prawit, which could reduce the Pheu Thai Party’s chances of leading the formation of a government.

Deputy Pheu Thai Party leader Phumtham Wechayachai state the pro-junta parties are trying to poach MPs from both Pheu Thai and Move Forward. He said 20 Pheu Thai MPs and 30 Move Forward MPs have been offered to switch side and one must be wary of an attempt to form an alternate government.

pita pheuthai1 — Move Forward Party leader Pita Limjaroenrat walks with another seven party leaders after meeting at the Pheu Thai Party in Bangkok, on Monday, July 17, 2023. / Khaosod Photo

The results of the first vote for Pita a 42-year-old Harvard-educated party leader, came out with 324 approvals, 182 disapprovals, and 199 abstentions. Only 13 junta-appointed senators out of 250 voted for Pita, while 43 did not show up.

However, since Pita did not secure enough 376 votes from the total of 750 seats in the two chambers, the Stock Exchange of Thailand index (SET Index) has continuously surged. The investors expected that Pheu Thai would lead the new government instead.

It was different when the Move Forward Party (MFP) defeated Pheu Thai in an unexpected win. Many investors were concerned that the MFP’s policies would be unfriendly to large corporations, given its pledge to free up business monopolies and reform the monarchy and military.

set — Set Index rose on Monday July 17, 2023

Pita himself has insisted on amending Section 112, despite the fact that a large number of representatives and senators did not support him.

“Everyone knew that this was an excuse. Even if this story disappears, other stories will come in another way,” Pita said. “I want to keep my word. It’s not that I want to come to power by any means.”

It seems the “other stories” that he mentioned have been coming.

pheuthai 17july 1 — The leaders of eight parties meet at the Pheu Thai Party on July 17, 2023.

At 9:30 a.m. on July 19, the Constitutional Court Judiciary will convene to consider whether to accept the Election Commission’s request to consider whether Pita’s membership in the House of Representatives and as the leader of the Move Forward party ends according to the constitution or not.

If the court accepts the petition for review, Pita will be prohibited from performing his duties as a representative until the court reaches a decision.

This meeting’s date and time coincide with the assembling of parliament, which will vote for the prime minister for the second time.

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She Zhijiang Proves Dedication to Charity Amidst Challenging Times

By

Contributor

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18 July 2023, 10:31

In light of recent charges brought against She Zhijiang by the Chinese government, he wishes to shed light on his unwavering dedication to charitable causes that have positively impacted numerous lives in Myanmar and other countries in the region. Despite the public perception generated by these allegations, Mr. Zhijiang remains committed to his philanthropic efforts.

She Zhijiang’s charitable initiatives have been instrumental in addressing critical societal issues, such as poverty alleviation, education, and healthcare. Throughout his illustrious career, he has consistently championed causes aimed at uplifting underprivileged communities and providing opportunities for marginalized individuals.

These donations include:

In September 2017, as a member of the 14th World Chinese Entrepreneurs Conference. She donated to the Myanmar government’s Rakhine State refugees 20 million Myanmar Kyats.

In November 2017, he donated 20 million Myanmar Kyats to the victims of the flood in Racine State.

In December 2017, he invested 150 million Myanmar Kyats to aid in the construction of SMRU Hospital in Myanmar.

In January 2018, She donated 20 million pesos to the University of the Philippines Manila.

In January 2018, the Huaxia Charity Foundation was established and the Asia Pacific Hotel opened. Chairman She promised that guests will donate ten pesos to the Huaxia Charity Foundation for every purchase made at the Asia Pacific Hotel to help poor college students complete their studies. At the same time, 50 million pesos were raised for charity.

In January 2018, in response to the initiative of the Presidential Palace of the Philippines, he donated a special car to deliver meals to impoverished children in the Philippines.

In March 2018, She donated 20,000 baht to the construction of a pagoda in Shwe Kokko, Kayin State.

In April 2018, 200 elderly people in Shwe Kokko, Kayin State, Myanmar were selected for support to help the poor.

In June 2018, She donated 20 million Philippine peso bursaries to the Confucius Institute at Ateneo de Manila University in Philippines.

In August 2018, Sh donated 10 million Myanmar Kyats to the birthday of the elder Myaing Gyi Ngu, and also donated 600,000 Myanmar Kyats to the Myaing Gyi Ngu monk temple inscription.

In August 2018, in addition, he donated 50 million kyats to flood-stricken areas such as Hpa-an, Gogli, and Myawaddy in Kayin State.

In October 2018, he donated 50 million Myanmar Kyats to the death ceremony of the Buddhist elder Myaing Gyi Ngu in Kayin State, Myanmar.

In January 2019, She donated 200,000 Myanmar Kyats to charity activities for orphans in difficult areas of Myanmar.

In January 2019, 50 million Myanmar Kyats were donated by She to the Karen ethnic group in Myanmar for the 79th Revolution Festival.

In April 2019, 3 million baht was provided by She to the management committee of Shwe Kokko, Kayin State, Myanmar to build an office.

On April 10, 2019, She made charitable donations of daily necessities and school supplies to an orphanage.

On April 17, 2019, a charity event was held by She, with daily necessities and red envelopes for the elderly in Shwe Kokko.

On August 19, 2019, She made a donation of 40 million Myanmar Kyats was handed over to the Governor of Kayin State to aid the victims of floods in Myanmar this year.

On October 5, 2019, he made a donation of 10 million Myanmar Kyats to Shwe Kokko High School to support Saw Htoo L Mu and Saw Chit Chit, the two sons of General Saw Chit Thu and alumni of the school, to hold an International Teachers’ Day event.

On November 8, 2019, at the 72nd anniversary celebration of Ratwittaya School, a famous Chinese school in Thailand, he donated 100,000 baht to be used for the construction of the school auditorium and the popularization of Chinese culture.

In February 2020, the China Charity Foundation Myanmar Asia-Pacific City Branch was established, and more than 2 million baht and more than 300,000 yuan of donations were donated to the domestic frontline to fight against the Coronavirus disease epidemic. As chairman, She donated 100,000 RMB, 1,226 N95 masks, 200 sets of protective clothing, and 100 goggles for Hainan People’s Hospital. The total amount of anti-epidemic medical supplies and freight was 568,335 baht.

Annually, She:

Funds the Philippine “Marathon” public welfare project.

Provides annual support to the Myanmar Water Festival.

On the “Respect for the Elderly Day” in Myanmar, donates rice, cooking oil and other daily necessities and distribute red envelopes to the elderly in Shwe Kokko, Kayin State.

Donates daily necessities such as rice and cooking oil, and school supplies such as school bags and school utensils to the “Canadian Tire Orphanage” in Shwe Kokko, Kayin State.

Is responsible for assisting the construction of roads for villagers in Shwe Kokko in Kayin State all the year round.

In acknowledgment of his efforts:

The Deputy Prime Minister of Cambodia presented a certificate of honor to She.

In 2018, he was featured on the cover of China Overseas Chinese Entrepreneur Magazine.

She’s foundation The Asia Pacific Group has a total of more than 1,500 employees. The project has driven the overall economy of the local region and solved the employment problem of nearly 80,000 Burmese people, supporting more than 100,000 families.

It is important to emphasize that She’s charitable activities and their profound impact should not be overshadowed by the recent charges leveled against him. We strongly urge the public and the media to consider the immense contributions She has made towards making the world a better place.

Courtyard by Marriott Bangkok Sukhumvit 20 Launches Bountiful Harvest Buffet & Brunch at Reap Factory

By

Contributor

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18 July 2023, 09:48

BANGKOK, THAILAND – Courtyard by Marriott Bangkok Sukhumvit 20, the stylish new hotel in the commercial heart of the Thai capital, has announced the launch of an exciting new dining experience at Reap Factory, the all-day restaurant that celebrates the bounty of a successful harvest.

Commencing on 19th July 2023, the new Harvest Buffet Dinner will be staged every Wednesday, Thursday and Friday evening (18:30 to 21:30 hrs), a lively Harvest Saturday Brunch on the first and third Saturdays of the month (12:00 to 16:00 hrs) and Harvest Sunday Brunch on the last Sunday of the month (12:00 to 16:00 hrs). All of these culinary occasions will showcase an appetizing selection of healthy Thai and international cuisine, crafted using local and seasonal produce including responsibly-raised meats, sustainable seafood and organic fruit, vegetables and herbs, and presented in a rustic, farmhouse style.

Executive Chef Teerathep Tishabhiromya and his highly skilled culinary team will present a series of interactive live stations, starting with a Salad Bar of crisp and colorful vegetables, dressings and ready-made Thai salads, tempting Thai Appetizers (Harvest Buffet Dinner only), sublime Soups and enticing Antipasti & Breads with prime cold cuts, premium cheeses and other accompaniments.

Succulent Seafood on Ice is a key element of the Harvest Buffet Dinner and Brunch, and guests will be able to savor delicacies such as freshly-shucked oysters, white shrimps, black mussels, rock lobsters and blue swimming crabs from the Andaman Sea, and mud crabs from the Gulf of Thailand. A dedicated Japanese Station will also feature handcrafted sushi, sashimi, maki rolls, tempura and more.

Fresh seafood and premium meats can also be grilled À La Minute by the talented chefs, including river prawns, rock lobsters, fresh fish, squid, blue crabs, clams, Babylon whelks, Australian striploin beef, chicken, pork tenderloin and lamb loin, plus marinated shrimps and other special dishes. A Carving Station will feature salt-crusted Andaman sea bass and barbecued ham at the Harvest Buffet Dinner and baked salmon, Thai wagyu beef and crispy pork belly at the Harvest Saturday & Sunday Brunch, all served with plenty of sides and sauces, and a Pasta Station will let every diner choose their ultimate Italian dish.

No Bangkok buffet dinner would be complete without a choice of tempting Thai Hot Dishes, and guests can savor local wok-fried classics, spicy curries, stunning stir-fries and vegetarian options, all served with organic jasmine rice. The Harvest Brunch will also include a special Indian Corner with chicken tikka masala, aloo gobi, samosas and more, plus a Thai Live Noodle Station specializing in traditional Thai boat noodle soup.

And of course, every meal can end on a sweet note with an array of Thai and international Desserts, from banoffee pie and blueberry cheesecake to mango sticky rice and carved tropical fruits. An interactive Thai Dessert Live Station will add an extra dash of culinary theater to the Harvest Brunch.

The Harvest Sunday Brunch will be a fun-filled affair and a great way to spend the weekend with loved ones. Adults can unwind with two hours of free-flow beverages, while children will love the kids’ activities at the Kids’ Corner such as face painting, balloon art and a DIY corner, and all ages will love the live music.

To celebrate the opening of the Harvest Buffet Dinner, diners can enjoy a special price of just THB 999++ per person. The Harvest Saturday & Sunday Brunch is priced at THB 1,488++ including soft drinks, tea and coffee. As an opening promotion, the free-flow beverage package (beer, wine, sparkling wine and three cocktails) is priced at just THB 599++ (from THB 799++).

Nestled in the beating heart of Bangkok, just a few minutes’ walk from Asoke BTS skytrain and Sukhumvit MRT subway stations, Reap Factory is an outstanding option for hotel guests and local residents seeking a stylish spot to dine and unwind.

For more information and to book your place at the Harvest Buffet Dinner or Harvest Brunch, please call 02 127 5920 or visit www.sevenrooms.com/reservations/reapfactory.

For more information about Reap Factory at Courtyard by Marriott Bangkok Sukhumvit 20, please click here.

CP Foods Joins Hands with Alliance to Combat Slavery in FLEC Center for 8 Consecutive Years

By

Contributor

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18 July 2023, 09:37

CP Foods Joins Hands with Alliance to Combat Slavery in FLEC Center for 8 Consecutive Years, Ensuring the Well-being of Migrant Workers in Songkhla

Charoen Pokphand Foods Public Company Limited (CP Foods) and six alliances have partnered for eight consecutive years, starting in 2016, to establish the Fishermen Life Enhancement Center (FLEC Center) in Songkhla province. Through collaborative efforts have made significant strides in eradicating illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing practices in Songkhla and nearby areas. Their united efforts have resulted in tangible improvements in the living conditions of migrant workers on fishing boats and their families, while simultaneously promoting a sustainable seafood supply chain in Thailand.

As the project continues this year, the focus remains steadfast on safeguarding the rights of children and women, combatting human trafficking and child labor, and ensuring the long-term sustainability of the seafood industry.

Over the past eight years, the FLEC Center in Songkhla has successfully integrated the expertise and knowledge of CP Foods and six organizations, including the Fish Marketing Organization Thailand, the Stella Maris Centre for Seafarers Songkhla (Baan Suksan), the Department of Labor Protection and Welfare, the Family Planning Association of Thailand under the Royal Patronage of Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, GEPP Sa-Ard (a Thai startup focusing on waste management), and PTT Global Chemical (GC).

This alliance project specifically addresses human trafficking, illegal labor, and child labor exploitation in the seafood industry. Through their collaborative efforts, they aim to establish a model that promotes equality and enhances the quality of life for migrant workers in the seafood supply chain across various provinces.

Nattaya Petcharat, a member of the FLEC Center’s committee, highlighted this year’s focus on promoting the rights of migrant women and children in the seafood supply chain, specifically those living in Songkhla province. The objective is to improve their well-being and self-reliance by reducing medical expenses and household costs for migrant families, while actively combating human trafficking.

The center has also increased their awareness and knowledge in workplace safety, healthcare, and career development, following the principles of the Sufficiency Economy Philosophy. This initiative aligns with the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, and it adopts the circular economy principle to support migrant workers’ self-reliance and encourage their participation in marine and coastal waste management (Ocean Stewardship).

One of the key missions of the FLEC Center is to promote lifelong learning. The Learning Quarter for Neighboring Migrant Children and Families at the FLEC Center focuses on providing education to migrant children and offering career skills training to women in migrant workers’ families.

The center equips migrant children, primarily from Cambodia, with fundamental knowledge in subjects like mathematics, Thai, English, and Cambodian languages, preparing them for basic education in elementary schools alongside Thai students. Additionally, the center provides life skills training, such as growing garden vegetables for household consumption, with the aim of fostering quality, self-reliance, and sustainable development in the lives of migrant children.

Since 2016, more than 268 migrant children living near Songkhla port areas have enrolled in the Thai education system. Currently, there are 34 students studying at Municipal School 1 (Nakhon Nok Road), Muang District, Songkhla Province.

The FLEC Center collaborates with partner organizations to implement the “Waste to Value” project, a crucial component of the “Restore the Ocean” initiative. This innovative project aims to tackle the issue of garbage pollution by promoting effective garbage sorting and providing incentives for the exchange of recyclable waste for essential household items. By doing so, it alleviates the financial burden on migrant families while promoting environmental sustainability.

Furthermore, the center actively participates in the collection of marine debris on International Ocean Clean Up Day, adhering to the guidelines set by Ocean Conservancy. As a result, the Restore the Ocean project has achieved remarkable success, with over 13,000 kilograms of debris collected last year. This significant contribution to the conservation of marine resources is a testament to the center’s dedication and commitment to preserving the health of our oceans.

An American Who Abused His Daughter Is Arrested in Thailand

By

Khaosod English

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18 July 2023, 08:58

A 30-year-old American who committed sexual abuse of his 9-year-old daughter and fled to Thailand, was arrested in Phuket.

Pol. Lt. Gen. Pakphoomphiphat Sajaphan, Commissioner of the Immigration Bureau, and Ms. Jessica L. Cuy, Special Agent/Attaché, Diplomatic Security Office, jointly held a press conference on July 17 for the arrest of Mr. Mayes, a 30-year-old American citizen who committed sexual abuse of his 9-year-old daughter and fled to Thailand.

Following notification from the International Criminal Investigation Unit at the US Embassy in Thailand, Thai police directed officers from the Immigration Service and the Phuket Provincial Immigration Office to conduct a joint investigation and arrest of Mayes, who entered Thailand on June 29, 2022, with a 30-day tourist visa and is currently allowed to stay in the category of non-residents (NON-ED).

On July 16, 2023, the investigation team learned that Mayes was residing at a residence in the Rawai Subdistrict, Muang District, Phuket Province, so they went there until he showed up. It was discovered that he was the same person on arrest warrants issued by foreign government officials. The police then withdrew his authorization to stay in the kingdom, arrested him, and sent him to the Phuket Immigration Office for legal proceedings.

Leader Of Winning Thai Party, Rebuffed Last Week, To Try Once More To Become Prime Minister

By

Associated Press

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18 July 2023, 00:07

Thailand Politics — Pita Limjaroenrat, the leader of Move Forward Party, left, and Leader of Pheu Thai party Chonlanan Srikaew shakes hands after meeting in Bangkok, Thailand, Monday, July 17, 2023. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit)

JINTAMAS SAKSORNCHAI — The leader of the progressive party that won a surprise victory in Thailand’s May elections said Monday he will make a second bid to become prime minister after being blocked last week by the country’s royalist and military establishment. But Pita Limjaroenrat, leader of the Move Forward Party, said he will make way for a political ally if he is unable to attract more support.

Parliament failed last Thursday to confirm Pita as prime minister even though his party captured the most seats in the 500-member House of Representatives. After the polls, Move Forward assembled an eight-party coalition with a combined 312 seats, a clear majority in the lower house, giving it the right to nominate a new prime minister.

However, selection of a new prime minister requires a majority of votes from both the lower house and the 250-seat Senate, which was appointed by the previous military government. Only 13 senators voted for Pita, giving him 324 votes, significantly short of the 376 needed for confirmation.

AP23198476440651 — Pita Limjaroenrat, the leader of Move Forward Party talks to reporter after meeting in Bangkok, Thailand, Monday, July 17, 2023. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit)

Many in the Senate, which represents the country’s traditional conservative ruling class, oppose Move Forward’s goal of reforming powerful institutions including the monarchy, military and business monopolies.

Pita, a 42-year-old Harvard-educated businessman, declared after meeting with his coalition partners on Monday that when Parliament votes again on Wednesday, “the candidate for prime minister will still be me, for the second time.”

There are doubts that he can secure much more support, and some of his coalition partners have hinted they would like to see him step aside sooner rather than later.

Pita said that “If there is no improvement, no substantial improvement” in the vote, he would let the second-largest party in the coalition take a try at winning the prime minister’s post.

That would mean the Pheu Thai party, the latest in a string of parties linked to former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, who was ousted by a military coup in 2006 and has long been a target of royalist power holders.

Pita faces another threat to taking power, aside from the defiant senators.

AP23198478217193 — Pita Limjaroenrat, the leader of Move Forward Party, center. and Leader of Pheu Thai party Chonlanan Srikaew, left , wave to supporters after meeting in Bangkok, Thailand, Monday, July 17, 2023 (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit)

Thai media report that the Constitutional Court will meet Wednesday morning to consider whether to accept a referral from the Election Commission alleging that Pita violated the constitution and should immediately be suspended from Parliament. It accuses him of violating a prohibition on politicians holding shares in a media company. The media company is no longer operating, and Pita says the shares are part of his father’s estate and don’t belong to him.

His supporters see this as the kind of dirty trick that has been used before by the ruling establishment against its challengers. For more than a decade, the ruling elite have repeatedly utilized the courts and nominally independent state agencies such as the Election Commission to issue rulings to cripple or oust political opponents.

Some senators have expressed outrage at the condemnation they have received for blocking Pita’s selection. Shortly after his bid fell through, two trending hashtags on Twitter urged the boycott of businesses associated with those senators and the exposure of their mistresses.

Several senators said they are launching criminal and civil suits to stop actions they said damaged the country and the good values of Thai people.

“It’s time to clearly show that senators will no longer tolerate this,” said Seree Suwanpanont, one of the most vocal opponents of Move Forward and Pita. He vowed to take action against all “those barbarians who just want to say anything they want, defame anyone they want.”

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