UN Council Adopts Resolution Urging End to Myanmar Violence

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22 December 2022, 11:30

FILE - The Security Council meets at United Nations headquarters, on Nov. 21, 2022. Photo: Seth Wenig / AP File

UNITED NATIONS (AP) — The U.N. Security Council approved its first-ever resolution on Myanmar on Wednesday, demanding an immediate end to violence in the Southeast Asian nation and urging its military rulers to release all “arbitrarily detained” prisoners including ousted leader Aung San Suu Kyi and to restore democratic institutions.

The resolution reiterated the call by the 15-member council for the country’s opposing parties to pursue dialogue and reconciliation and urged all sides “to respect human rights, fundamental freedoms and the rule of law.”

The council vote was 12-0 with three abstentions, China, Russia and India.

Britain’s U.N. Ambassador Barbara Woodward, whose country sponsored the resolution, said it is the first adopted by the U.N.’s most powerful body since the country, formerly known as Burma, joined the United Nations in 1948.

It is the result of the military overturning the results of a democratic election and seizing power on Feb. 1, 2021, plunging the country into a series of cascading crises with “negative consequences for the region and its stability,” she said.

“Today we’ve sent a firm message to the military, that there should be a no doubt we expect this resolution to be implemented in full,” Woodward said. “We stand with the people of Myanmar. It is time for the junta to return the country to them.”

U.S. Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken applauded the adoption of the resolution as an important step but said the Council had more work to do “to advance a just solution” to the crisis.

“The Security Council should leverage this opportunity to seek additional ways to promote a return to the path of democracy, advance accountability for the regime’s actions, and support ASEAN’s efforts to achieve meaningful implementation of the Five Point Consensus,” he said in a statement, referring to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations’ plan to restore peace and stability.

U.N. spokesman Stephane Dujarric said Secretary-General Antonio Guterres remains “extremely concerned” about the deteriorating humanitarian situation and human rights in Myanmar. “We welcome this strong message from the Security Council,” he told AP.

For five decades Myanmar had languished under strict military rule that led to international isolation and sanctions. As the generals loosened their grip, culminating in Suu Kyi’s rise to leadership in 2015 elections and moves toward democracy, the international community responded by lifting most sanctions and pouring investment into the country.

That ended with the military takeover on the day Parliament was to reconvene following November 2020 elections which Suu Kyi’s National League for Democracy party won overwhelmingly — an outcome the military claims without evidence was based on fraud.

The takeover was met with massive public opposition, which has since turned into armed resistance that some U.N. experts have characterized as civil war.

Last month, the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners, a rights monitoring organization, said over 16,000 people had been detained on political charges in Myanmar since the army takeover. Of those arrested, more than 13,000 were still in detention. The association said at least 2,465 civilians had been killed since the 2021 takeover, although the number is thought to be far higher.

Much of the international community, including Myanmar’s fellow ASEAN members, have expressed frustration at the generals’ hard line in resisting reform. Myanmar’s rulers agreed to ASEAN’s plan in April 2021 but have made little effort to implement it.

The plan calls for the immediate cessation of violence, a dialogue among all concerned parties, mediation of the dialogue process by an ASEAN special envoy, provision of humanitarian aid through ASEAN channels and a visit to Myanmar by the association’s special envoy to meet all concerned parties. Current U.N. special envoy Noeleen Heyzer and ASEAN special envoy Prak Sokhonn, a Cambodian minister, have both visited Myanmar but neither was allowed to meet Suu Kyi.

The resolution “acknowledges ASEAN’s central role in helping to find a peaceful solution to the crisis in Myanmar” and encourages the international community to support ASEAN’s efforts, including in implementing the five-point consensus.

Noting that Myanmar’s military committed to supporting the five-point consensus, the U.N. resolution calls for immediate action to implement it and urges all parties in Myanmar to work on starting a dialogue aimed at peacefully resolving the crisis. It also underlines the need “for a peaceful, genuine and inclusive process to de-escalate violence and reach a sustainable political resolution.”

The resolution also expresses “deep concern” at the ongoing state of emergency imposed by the military, the arrest of Suu Kyi and former president Win Myint who should be released immediately, and at “the increasingly large numbers of internally displaced persons and dramatic increase in humanitarian need.” It reiterates the council’s condemnation of the execution of activists in July.

Elaine Pearson, Asia director at Human Rights Watch, said: “The Security Council resolution is a momentous step on behalf of the people of Myanmar, opening the door toward holding Myanmar’s brutal generals to account.”

But Tom Andrews, the independent U.N. special investigator on Myanmar, tweeted that as well-meaning as the resolution is, “without consequences” in the resolution “these important sentiments will not stop the junta from attacking and destroying the lives of the 54 million in Myanmar.”

Since the Security Council won’t authorize action against the military, he said, “those nations who support the people of Myanmar must immediately step forward with coordinated action to end the carnage.”

Britain’s Woodward said the resolution was the result of many weeks of consultations with members of the council and ASEAN and key regional partners. Diplomats said the final negotiations were between Britain and China, Myanmar’s neighbor and ally.

Louis Charbonneau, Human Rights Watch’s U.N. director, said: “China and Russia’s abstentions signal that even the junta’s few friends have lost interest in sticking out their necks to defend its atrocities.”

China’s U.N. Ambassador Zhang Jun said he abstained because the resolution’s “tone still lacks balance.”

Stressing that China’s “policy of friendship towards Myanmar is for all its people,” he said “there is no quick fix” to the current crisis which requires all parties and factions to pursue dialogue and achieve political reconciliation.

“Neither democratic transition nor national reconciliation can be achieved overnight, and both require time, patience, and pragmatism,” Zhang said. He urged the international community to listen to ASEAN’s views and allow time for ASEAN to build consensus.

On another Myanmar issue, the resolution underscored the need to address the crisis in Rakhine state and to create conditions for the return of Rohingya Muslims who were chased out of the Buddhist-majority country and now live as refugees in neighboring Bangladesh and elsewhere.

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Story: Edith M. Lederer.

Zelenskyy Thanks ‘Every American,’ Sees ‘Turning Point’

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Associated Press

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22 December 2022, 11:00

President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden, welcome Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the White House in Washington, Wednesday, Dec. 21, 2022. Photo: Andrew Harnik / AP

WASHINGTON (AP) — Ukraine’s Volodymyr Zelenskyy told cheering U.S. legislators during a defiant wartime visit to the nation’s capital on Wednesday that against all odds his country still stands, thanking Americans for helping to fund the war effort with money that is “not charity,” but an “investment” in global security and democracy.

The whirlwind stop in Washington — his first known trip outside his country since Russia invaded in February — was aimed at reinvigorating support for his country in the U.S. and around the world at a time when there is concern that allies are growing weary of the costly war and its disruption to global food and energy supplies.

Zelenskyy called the tens of billions of dollars in U.S. military and economic assistance provided over the past year vital to Ukraine’s efforts to beat back Russia and appealed for even more in the future.

“Your money is not charity,” he sought to reassure both those in the room and those watching at home. “It’s an investment in the global security and democracy that we handle in the most responsible way.”

Just before his arrival, the U.S. announced a new $1.8 billion military aid package, including for the first time Patriot surface-to-air missiles. And Congress planned to vote this week on a fresh spending package that includes about $45 billion in additional emergency assistance to Ukraine.

The speech to Congress came after President Joe Biden hosted Zelenskyy in the Oval Office for strategy consultations, saying the U.S. and Ukraine would maintain their “united defense” as Russia wages a “brutal assault on Ukraine’s right to exist as a nation.” Biden pledged to help bring about a “just peace.”

Zelenskyy told Biden that he had wanted to visit sooner and his visit now demonstrates that the “situation is under control, because of your support.”

The highly sensitive trip came after 10 months of a brutal war that has seen tens of thousands of casualties on both sides and devastation for Ukrainian civilians.

Zelenskyy traveled to Washington aboard a U.S. Air Force jet. The visit had been long sought by both sides, but the right conditions only came together in the last 10 days, U.S. officials said, after high-level discussions about the security both of Zelenskyy and of his people while he was outside of Ukraine. Zelenskyy spent less than 10 hours in Washington before beginning the journey back to Ukraine.

In his remarks to lawmakers, Zelenskky harked back to U.S. victories in the Battle of the Bulge, a turning point against Nazi Germany in World War II, and the Revolutionary War Battle of Saratoga, an American victory that helped draw France’s aid for U.S. independence. The Ukrainian leader predicted that next year would be a “turning point” in the conflict, “when Ukrainian courage and American resolve must guarantee the future of our common freedom — the freedom of people who stand for their values.”

Zelenskyy received thunderous applause from members of Congress and presented lawmakers with a Ukrainian flag autographed by front-line troops in Bakhmut, in Ukraine’s contested Donetsk province. The flag was displayed behind him on the rostrum by House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Vice President Kamala Harris. Pelosi, in turn, presented Zelenskyy with an American flag that had flown over the Capitol that day, and Zelenskyy pumped it up and down as he exited the chamber.

Declaring in his speech that Ukraine “will never surrender,” Zelenskyy warned that the stakes of the conflict were greater than just the fate of his nation — that democracy worldwide is being tested.

“This battle cannot be ignored, hoping that the ocean or something else will provide protection,” he said, speaking in English for what he had billed as a “speech to Americans.”

Earlier, in a joint news conference with Biden, Zelenskyy was pressed on how Ukraine would try to bring an end to the conflict. He rejected Biden’s framing of finding a “just peace,” saying, “For me as a president, ‘just peace’ is no compromises.” He said the war would end once Ukraine’s sovereignty, freedom and territorial integrity were restored, and Russia had paid back Ukraine for all the damage inflicted by its forces.

“There can’t be any ‘just peace’ in the war that was imposed on us,” he added.

Biden, for his part, said Russia was “trying to use winter as a weapon, but Ukrainian people continue to inspire the world.” During the news conference, he said Russian President Vladimir Putin had “no intention of stopping this cruel war.”

The two leaders appeared to share a warm rapport, laughing at each other’s comments and patting each other on the back throughout the visit, though Zelenskyy made clear he will continue to press Biden and other Western leaders for ever more support.

He said that after the Patriot system was up and running, “we will send another signal to President Biden that we would like to get more Patriots.”

“We are in the war,” Zelenskyy added with a smile, as Biden chuckled at the direct request. “I’m sorry. I’m really sorry.”

Biden told Zelenskyy that it was “important for the American people, and for the world, to hear directly from you, Mr. President, about Ukraine’s fight, and the need to continue to stand together through 2023.”

Zelenskyy had headed to Washington after making a daring and dangerous trip Tuesday to what he called the hottest spot on the 1,300-kilometer (800-mile) front line of the war, the city of Bakhmut.

Poland’s private broadcaster, TVN24, said Zelenskyy crossed into Poland early Wednesday on his way to Washington. The station showed footage of what appeared to be Zelenskyy arriving at a train station and being escorted to a motorcade of American SUVs. TVN24 said the video, partially blurred for security reasons, was shot in Przemysl, a Polish border town that has been the arrival point for many refugees fleeing the war.

Officials, citing security concerns, were cagey about Zelenskyy’s travel plans, but a U.S. official confirmed that Zelenskyy arrived on a U.S. Air Force jet that landed at Joint Base Andrews, just outside the capital, from the Polish city of Rzeszow.

Biden told Zelenskyy, who wore a combat-green sweatshirt and boots, that ”it’s an honor to be by your side.”

U.S. and Ukrainian officials have made clear they do not envision an imminent resolution to the war and are preparing for fighting to continue for some time. The latest infusion of U.S. money would be the biggest yet — and exceed Biden’s $37 billion request.

Biden repeated that while the U.S. will arm and train Ukraine, American forces will not be directly engaged in the war.

The latest U.S. military aid package includes not only a Patriot missile battery but precision guided bombs for fighter jets, U.S. officials said. It represents an expansion in the kinds of advanced weaponry intended to bolster Ukraine’s air defenses against what has been an increasing barrage of Russian missiles.

Russia’s Foreign Ministry has said the delivery of the advanced surface-to-air missile system would be considered a provocative step and that the system and any crews accompanying it would be a legitimate target for Moscow’s military.

“It’s a defensive system,” Biden said of sending the missile system. “It’s not escalatory — it’s defensive.”

The visit comes at an important moment, with the White House bracing for greater resistance when Republicans take control of the House in January and give more scrutiny to aid for Ukraine. GOP leader Kevin McCarthy of California has said his party will not write a “blank check” for Ukraine.

Zelenskky appeared well aware of political divisions in the U.S. over prolonged overseas spending, and called on the House and Senate lawmakers to ensure American leadership remains “bicameral and bipartisan.”

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer opened the chamber’s session on Wednesday by saying that passage of the aid package and confirmation of the new U.S. ambassador to Russia, Lynne M. Tracy, would send a strong signal that Americans stand “unequivocally” with Ukraine. Tracy was confirmed later on a 93-2 vote.

The Senate’s top Republican, Kentucky Sen. Mitch McConnell, said “the most basic reasons for continuing to help Ukraine degrade and defeat the Russian invaders are cold, hard, practical American interests.” He said “defeating Russia’s aggression will help prevent further security crises in Europe.”

Russia’s invasion, which began Feb. 24, has lost momentum. The illegally annexed provinces of Donetsk, Kherson, Luhansk and Zaporizhzhia remain fiercely contested.

With the fighting in the east at a stalemate, Moscow has used missiles and drones to attack Ukraine’s power equipment, hoping to leave people without electricity as freezing weather sets in.

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Story: Zeke Miller, Lisa Mascaro and E. Eduardo Castillo. Castillo reported from Kyiv, Ukraine. Associated Press writers Farnoush Amiri, Lolita C. Baldor, Tara Copp, Kevin Freking, Aamer Madhani, Chris Megerian and Seung Min Kim contributed to this report.

TEN MEANINGFUL EXPERIENCES TO GIFT LOVED ONES THIS CHRISTMAS

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Contributor

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21 December 2022, 17:46

Discover a series of community, wildlife and marine conservation initiatives with Marriott International’s Good Travel with Marriott Bonvoy™ program in Thailand and Vietnam

BANGKOK, THAILAND, December 2022 – Bells a-ringing, tummies a-feasting, but finding that perfect Christmas gift can be pretty overwhelming. This Christmas, let’s ditch the material gifts and get a gift that gives back.

Marriott International’s Good Travel with Marriott Bonvoy™ program offers meaningful travel experiences, enabling guests to create a positive impact as they explore and build deeper connections in local communities and play a part in restoring the environment of the destinations they visit.

Available at close to 100 locations across Asia Pacific, book a holiday at any of the participating hotels to join one of the curated, purpose-driven experiences. In Thailand and Vietnam alone, there are ten Good Travel with Marriott Bonvoy™ experiences. From elephant conservation to coral reef preservation, there’s a purposeful travel experience for everyone from Marriott Bonvoy this holiday season.

For the wildlife lovers – Enrich your travel experience with opportunities to protect wildlife in Hua Hin, Krabi and Phuket.

There are many attractions in Thailand where tourists unknowingly contribute to the suffering of animals. Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailand rescues thousands of animals every year from poor conditions. At Sheraton Hua Hin Resort & Spa, you can visit the wildlife rescue center, wildlife hospital and elephant refuge, and learn how to protect them from exploitation.

Elephants are highly revered animals in Thailand. Join the “Help the Herd” campaign at Phulay Bay, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve, Krabi, to learn about elephant conservation by visiting the Krabi Elephant House Sanctuary, a safe haven which allows these beautiful, sociable and highly intelligent animals to live peacefully.

Phuket is home to many beautiful beaches. However, plastic pollution is harming local wildlife, including fish and birds. Join us on a guided beach tour, help the clean-up and promote ocean conservation at Phuket Marriott Resort and Spa, Nai Yang Beach. Learn how you can repurpose plastic debris collected into a bracelet as a reminder of your meaningful participation.

Butterflies are essential to a healthy ecosystem, but sadly the native butterfly population is declining in Phuket. With Phuket Marriott Resort & Spa, Merlin Beach, you can visit a Butterfly Sanctuary to learn about butterfly life cycles, classifications, and conservation, and see the butterflies in their natural environment.

For the ocean warriors – Help restore and preserve the tropical marine ecosystems of Phuket and Koh Samui in Thailand and Phu Quoc in Vietnam.

The blue swimming crab has been depleted due to overfishing and other pressures, affecting food security and the livelihoods of local fishing communities in Koh Samui. At Sheraton Samui Resort, you can explore the Crab Bank project to learn more about the lifecycle of the blue swimming crab and support crab rehabilitation and sustainable consumption.

Nestled on Mai Khao Beach next to Sirinat National Park where leatherback turtles come to nest and lay eggs, the Mao Khao Turtle Shelter provides a safe place for injured and disabled turtles, eggs and newborns to recover, hatch and gain strength before returning to the ocean. Guests at JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa can visit this vital turtle conservation center and learn about marine turtles’ lifecycles, diets and threats.

Phu Quoc is a tropical paradise and home to over a thousand coral reefs. Climate change however, has caused significant coral bleaching, wiping out entire ecosystems as marine life loses its source of food. At JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay, you can learn about coral conservation and help to replant the in-house coral farm.

For the community advocates – Give back to the local community through social and educational programs in Hua Hin, Chiang Rai and Khao Lak.

Road accidents are the second leading cause of death for children in Thailand, with a significant number of young people losing their lives simply because they lack helmets. Guests at Hua Hin Marriott Resort & Spa can participate in a helmet painting workshop to understand how they can improve road safety for children in rural Thailand. The painted helmets are then donated to local children.

Chiang Rai is known as the cultural city of Thailand, with pottery being a treasured local traditional artform that is slowly disappearing. At Le Méridien Chiang Rai Resort, you can take part in a hands-on workshop guided by local potters at Doy Din Dang Pottery to learn about its cultural heritage, while supporting local artists.

The use of chemical pesticides around the world is harming natural pollinators such as bees and butterflies. At Le Méridien Khao Lak Resort & Spa, you can visit Le Ka Tak Sustainable Farm for a hands-on experience with the local community to learn how compost is made, feed the chickens with food scrap, and observe the impact on nature around you.

To learn more about Marriott Bonvoy, please visit https://www.marriott.com/loyalty.mi.

Indulge in a Yuletide Feast with TWG Tea Festive Set Menu this Holiday Season

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21 December 2022, 17:45

Bangkok, December 2022 – With the cheers of merriment and chime of sleigh bells echoing around the fireplace, tea lovers and gourmands can indulge in a decadent TWG Tea’s festive set menu this holiday season.

A Taste of Christmas

Enjoy a tantalising Roasted Rack of Lamb with a Noel! Noel! Tea infused Saffron Couscous, carefully seasoned and infused to bring out its natural flavour.

Make merry and whet your appetite with a Grilled Seabass with Purple Potato and Grain Mustard Beurre Blanc. Grilled to perfection, the seabass is served with purple potato, aromatic dill and grain mustard beurre blanc infused with Lemon Bush Tea.

Round off the festivities on a sweet note with a Yuzu Cream Cheese Velvet Cake, carefully layered with a Yuzu Cherry Jelly. Enjoy the dessert with a scoop of Red Christmas Tea infused milk ice cream, almond mousse panna cotta sprinkled with almond cookies, a delightful addition to your festive table.

Refresh the palate with a refreshing TWG Tea Mocktail of Red Chai, raspberry puree and lemon juice, perfect to make merry this festive season.

TWG Tea Festive Set Menu, 1,890 baht for Full Set ; 1,090 baht for Meat Set and tea; 690 baht, for Seafood Set and tea and 590 baht Dessert tea and dessert. Available at TWG Tea Salon and Boutique at The Emporium (G Level) Tel. 080-976-3502 and 087-045-6850 and Siam Paragon (G Level) Tel. 082-026-9673 and 097-370-9947 and Icon Siam (G Level) (Exclusive Dessert set) Tel.095-890-2697 from 1 December 2022 to 15 January 2023.

Perfect Gifts for Your Loved Ones

For this season of celebration and gifting, TWG Tea recommends Forever Noel Tea, a festive blend that brings warmth to heart and home this holiday season. Toast the joy of Christmas with this sparkling
TWG Tea green tea blended with a festival of flavours and warm winter spices, as this tea infuses into an aromatic cup with soft lingering notes of hibiscus, cinnamon, clove buds and orange peel.

For those cosy holiday evenings, Red Christmas Tea is a theine-free South Africa red tea, blended with a festival of flavours and spices, the perfect tea to reminisce and celebrate all year long.

Forever Noel Tea from the Grand Mode Tea Collection, 1,560 THB (100g) and Red Christmas Teabag Gift Box, 890 THB (contains 15 cotton teabags) are available from 1 December 2022 at all TWG Tea Salons and Boutiques in Thailand.

One Bangkok Prevails at PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards Grand Final 2022, Sweeps Asia’s Best Landmark Mixed-Use Development award and Thailand’s Best Office Development award

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Contributor

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21 December 2022, 17:20

One Bangkok, the largest holistically integrated district in the heart of Bangkok has been awarded Asia’s first Best Landmark Mixed-Use Development and Best Office Development (Thailand) for its office Tower 4 at the prestigious PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards Grand Final 2022. These awards recognise the excellence demonstrated by One Bangkok through its outstanding quality, unique design concept, location, quality of amenities, construction, success in the marketplace, the accomplishment of overall development goals, sustainable function, and innovation.

The PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards Grand Final 2022 is one of the region’s most renowned real estate awards where top country winners vie to be recognised as ‘Best in Asia’. One Bangkok had earlier won ‘Best Mega Mixed-Use Development’ and ‘Best Office Development’ at the 17th PropertyGuru Thailand Property Awards.

Mr. Lim Hua Tiong, Chief Executive Officer, One Bangkok, said, “Recognition from PropertyGuru is a testament to the confidence of industry leaders in One Bangkok. Our vision and ambition for One Bangkok goes beyond real estate. The design principle of One Bangkok focuses on sustainability, people centric and smart city. We want to make impactful changes to the city, and to be part of Bangkok city evolving into one of the world’s greatest metropolises.”

“The offices at One Bangkok emphasize health, well-being, sustainability, and quality in every detail as an affirmation to create the ultimate workplace ecosystem of the future. For office Tower 4, we engaged world-renowned consultants to deliver beautifully designed, high-performance environments with flexibility and efficiency for the best occupant experience. It is also the first office tower in Thailand underpinned by future-ready smart technology, targeting WiredScore and SmartScore certifications, and is designed for WELL Platinum certification, ensuring the physical and social environments will benefit the health, well-being, and performance of occupants.” he added.

One Bangkok, a joint venture between TCC Assets Co Ltd and Frasers Property Holdings (Thailand) Co., Ltd. is located at the corner of Wireless and Rama 4 roads with direct linkages to the city’s burgeoning mass transit systems. One Bangkok comprises workplaces of the future, a new retail loop, superlative residences, hotels with the finest five-star hospitality, a world-class live entertainment arena, the presence of art and culture, and a vast, welcoming public realm that covers 50 rai (8 hectares) of the district. As a well-equipped smart city with sustainable infrastructure, One Bangkok aims to be the first project in Thailand to be awarded LEED for Neighborhood Development Platinum certification and WELL Building Standard to support human health and wellness.

MHESI and TISTR Attended a Meeting with Australian Leading Organizations, to Create International Network and Drive Area-based Economy Using Innovation.

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21 December 2022, 15:54

Thailand Institute of Scientific and Technological Research (TISTR) under Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI) created an international collaboration network of innovative agriculture. The delegations of TISTR and MHESI attended a meeting with Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (CSIRO) and Plant Breeding Institute—an organization under the University of Sydney, Australia to exchange and learn the research and development for technology including the Supplementary Diet Product, the operation on Plastic Product in line with BCG Model, the agricultural and ornamental planting technology. The discussion also included the approach to the collaboration between organizations in the future for the sustainable community development.

The executives of MHESI and TISTR have recently attended a meeting with leading organizations in Australia. The Thai delegations were leaded by Prof. Sirirurg Songsivilai M.D., Ph.D., Permanent Secretary of Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI) as the chairman of the Board of Thailand Institute of Scientific and Technological Research, together with Dr. Chutima Eamchotchawalit—Governor of Thailand Institute of Scientific and Technological Research (TISTR), Dr. Rochana Tangkoonboribun—Director of Expert Centre of Innovative Agriculture (InnoAg), Dr. Boonnanida Sodha—Director of International Relationship Department, Office of the Governor (OGV), and Dr. Anan PiriyaPhattarakit—Senior Researcher of InnoAg.

During the trip, the delegations attended a meeting with Prof. Grant Brinkworth—Principal Research Scientist, CSIRO Health and Biosecurity and visited the laboratory at Westmead Innovation Quarter, Westmead Research Hub. The Governor of TISTR presented the overall operation of TISTR and the BCG Model—the economic driving policy, and discussed over the collaboration in Clinical Trial Development for the Supplementary Dietary Food as well as the future cooperation on Plant-based Protein Development which contributes the specializes of TISTR in Herbal Extraction and Natural Product.

Furthermore, the delegations met Ms. Andrea Sosa-Pintos—IPPIN Senior Program Manager, together with representatives from the Artificial Intelligence Team, the New Generation Agriculture Team, and the Plastic Team of Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (CSIRO) in the topic of the New Generation Agriculture and Collaboration on Plastic.

The team of CSIRO is going to launch the Indo-Pacific Plastics Network Project (IPPN) in the Mae-khong Region in the early of 2023. TISTR has an interest in joining the project. The possible collaboration is a technical support from CSIRO in terms of Business Model Development of Full-cycled Waste Management in Thailand and Expert Exchange between organizations.

In addition, the delegations talked to Prof. Richard Trethowan—Director of Plant Breeding Institute, an organization under the University of Sydney. Joined with meeting, Prof. Robert Park—Head of the Research Team of the Rust Program took the delegations to visit the Rust Research Program and the Institute Research Program of Agriculture and Crop Cultivation. There are Missions to promote the research regarding Plant Breeding Development for benefits, profits, and sustainable production with the best technology. The research focuses on the Genetic Development of Cereal, and Crops, the Development of Food Quality and Farming System, the Agricultural Digitalization, and the Adjustment for Climate and Natural Change. The operation of the Plant Breeding Institute of the University of Sydney has a very close direction with the Missions in Agricultural Research of TISTR; then, the delegations of TISTR wish to seek for a collaboration or a co-research project among institutes in the future.

Before returning, the delegations visited the Sydney Flower Market—the biggest flowers and ornamental plants market in Australia where there are 50 percent of flowers in Australia selling. According to the survey of the market and information, there are flowers and ornamental plants growing and selling in Australia whole year, the best production period of which is in February – May. The popular flowers are Rose, Carnation, Gerbera, Lily, etc. Most products are distributed and consumed domestically. Australia imports cutting flowers from some partner countries such as Kenya, Malaysia, and China. Referred to information in 2019, Thailand exported Orchids to Australia for 95 percent of the export cutting flowers to Australia. Since 2020 that Thailand started exporting Roses to Australia, there have been positive trends on expanding export market of cutting flowers to Australia.

The visit of MHESI and TISTR to Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (CSIRO) and Plant Breeding Institute, the University of Sydney, Australia was to exchange and learn the operation of the technological and agricultural research and development. It was a significant beginning of an international collaboration and networking in Innovative Agriculture in order to align an approach of cooperation in the future and create an international market opportunity for Thai SMEs.

Wellington College International School Bangkok: A role model for a strong school community

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21 December 2022, 14:11

When we talk about the best international schools in Thailand, Wellington College International School Bangkok (WCIB) ranks highly in every respect. Under the management of Dr. Praew – Darika Lathapipat, the school provides a British curriculum with inspiring activities for children, complemented by a learning-friendly environment designed to support their journey of self-discovery. In addition to the strengths of its academic programme and exceptional facilities, WCIB embraces a culture of parent-school engagement that creates a strong community to benefit all members

Mr. Christopher Nicholls, Master of WCIB, believes that the Friends of Wellington (FoW), an association of parents, is truly integral to Wellington’s identity. “It is an organisation that brings parents, teachers, and other members of the school community together to share, learn and celebrate. The purpose of regular events, and of the FoW itself, is to support all members of the school as they get more involved, make new friends, develop their networking in our community and much more. Without doubt, a positive, constructive school community is a good school community. “

Dr. Darika Lathapipat, President of Dhurakij Pundit University and Chairman of the Board of Governors of WCIB, said that besides the focus on British education, along with inspirational activities and cosy learning spaces, WCIB also encourages parental involvement in students’ learning and social activities inside and outside campus. This enhances their skills and knowledge, as well as their mental and physical development.

“Schools learned a lot from the pandemic, when – for long periods – we had to work from home. What was most challenging about that time was not the study itself but the lack of human contact. Once we returned to real-life study, everyone saw afresh how vital community really is. It’s not just about the chat with other parents at the school gates in the morning, but the networks that develop when children make new friends, and their families become friends, and when they talk to their friends whose children are at another school and recommend them to visit and see for themselves.

If the community is strong and comfortable and has trust, it is much easier for members to communicate openly and honestly. That way, when difficulties emerge, we can address and resolve them with confidence and assurance,” adds Dr. Darika.

Mr. Notachard Chintakanond, Executive Director of the International Affairs Bureau, The National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC), and Chairman of FoW, said that taking the adults in the FoW as role models, children should understand how vital it is to be a part of society. Working together is essential – when we are united, we can overcome challenges. They will recognise and appreciate the value of their community. It is fundamental that WCIB emphasises how we nurture our children and encourage them to grow up and become good global citizens.”

Mrs. Cindy Sirinya Bishop, Vice Chairman and Head of the CSR Department of FoW, maintains that the parent community plays a significant role in modern education. At school, rigorous educational standards are essential, but above all, it is important to build a strong parent community to encourage parental involvement and foster relations among community members, including the school, parents, and children.

“Regardless of our differences and backgrounds, we get together, join hands, and create many good things to benefit all. FoW has organised many activities which support children and their development. Although some events were suspended during the pandemic, we are back on track and continue to arrange activities to support our children and the school. At WCIB, children enjoy their time in a good learning environment. We can see their happiness, and, more importantly, they are excited to share stories about their school life with us. We notice their development both mentally and physically.

For this festive season, we are back together for the first time in three years to arrange the Christmas Fayre. Kids have so much fun, and we recognise that the school can be a space for children’s happiness. Beyond the classroom, the school can be a children’s playground or a place to celebrate festivities. This way, it helps children connect and create a good relationship with the school as they can see that their campus is where they can share a good time with everyone.”

Mrs. Becky Russell, Friends of Wellington member, said that the biological system of the children is very important. “Kids have a safety zone here at WCIB. From my experience, when my child comes across problems, she talks to her teacher or counsellor. It is vital that our kids feel safe and comfortable in their community. So, I believe they will grow to their fullest potential with the Wellington education here.”

Wellington College International School Bangkok is a co-educational school that provides outstanding international education based on the British curriculum. All courses are in English and tailored to suit learners with Thai and diverse cultural backgrounds. It is one of the best private schools in Thailand, recognised for its excellent academic programme, guiding students to be inspired by everything they do, both inside and outside the classroom. The school develops critical thinking skills and encourages students to become truly independent learners. Moreover, the campus is equipped with world-class facilities designed to the highest specifications – all to improve the quality of learning. Taking a holistic approach, a Wellington education gives importance to its community. This strong and positive teamwork grows future game-changers with a burning desire to go out and do good in the world.

Survivor Found From Thai Navy Ship That Sank Sunday

By

Associated Press

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21 December 2022, 11:00

In this photo provided by the Royal Thai Navy, the HTMS Sukhothai corvette warship lists off the coast of Prachuap Khiri Khan province, Thailand, Sunday, Dec. 18, 2022. Photo: Royal Thai Navy via AP

BANGKOK (AP) — Rescuers found a survivor and recovered five bodies from a Thai warship that sank over the weekend in the Gulf of Thailand, navy officials said Tuesday, as hopes faded for two dozen people still missing. Officials acknowledged there were not enough life jackets for all those aboard.

The HTMS Sukhothai, a corvette in service for 35 years, sank Sunday night in rough seas with 105 people aboard. The navy said an earlier tally of 106 people on board was incorrect because one sailor failed to join the journey.

Navy commander Adm. Cherngchai Chomcherngpat said initially at a news conference in Bangkok that two people had been rescued on Tuesday, but later said he had received updated information that only one person was alive and that five bodies had been recovered. According to those figures, 76 people have now been rescued, five have been found dead and 24 are still unaccounted for.

Navy Chief of Staff Adm. Chonlathis Navanugraha said the survivor and the bodies, along with some debris, were found about 60 kilometers (37 miles) from where the ship sank. He said the United States, Britain and Malaysia have offered to help in the search.

The survivor, identified as Chananyu Kansriya, was found floating in the sea at about 3 p.m. and was picked up by a passing cargo ship, Chonlathis said. A navy frigate was bringing him back to shore.

Vice Adm. Pichai Lorchusakul, commander of the 1st Naval Area Command, told reporters that Chananyu was in weak condition and would receive medical treatment on the frigate, which has facilities akin to a mobile hospital.

He was quoted by the Thai Rath newspaper as saying search efforts had been accelerated, but the missing could not be expected to survive in the sea for longer than two days.

Chonlathis was slightly more optimistic. “We still have hope,” he said. “Judging from the direction of the water and the wind, it is blowing toward the beach. That is good luck. We continue to search with hope.”

The navy has deployed four large ships, two maritime patrol aircraft, two helicopters and a drone, and the air force has contributed one plane and one helicopter. Small boats could not be used because the sea remained extremely choppy, navy officers said.

The search is gradually moving south to take into account the currents, Capt. Kraipich Korawee-Paparwit, commander of one of the rescue ships, told Thai PBS television.

Strong winds and high waves caused seawater to enter the ship on Sunday evening, knocking out its electrical system and making control of the ship virtually impossible. Other naval vessels rushed to the scene, about 20 miles (32 kilometers) offshore, to try to assist the stricken vessel but could not do much because of the poor sea conditions. Because the ship could not be controlled, more water entered, causing it to list and sink.

Thailand’s Meteorological Department had issued a weather advisory for the general area just a few hours before the accident, saying that waves in the Gulf of Thailand were expected to be 2-4 meters (7-14 feet) high. It suggested that all ships “proceed with caution” and warned small craft not to go to sea until Tuesday.

Survivors interviewed by Thai television said there were not enough life jackets because the ship was carrying guests in addition to its normal crew, which the navy website said was 87 sailors and officers.

Navy Commander Cherngchai said about 30 people from the Marine Corps and Air and Coastal Defense Command were aboard the ship, resulting in the shortage of life jackets. He said 18 people without life jackets had been rescued.

Cherngchai said all aspects of the sinking and the provision of life jackets will be investigated.

Earlier Tuesday, Vice Admiral Pichai was confronted at one of the rescue centers by a woman who said she was the mother of one of the missing sailors.

“My son called me with his friend’s phone when the ship started to sink,” the woman said in an exchange captured on video. “He said he did not get a life jacket and only a life buoy. As a parent, when I heard this, my heart was broken. If there were not enough life jackets, how much hope can you give me?”

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Story: Tassanee Vejpongsa and Chalida Ekvitthayavechnukul.

Musk Says He’ll Be Twitter CEO Until a Replacement Is Found

By

Associated Press

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21 December 2022, 10:30

FILE - Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk arrives on the red carpet for the Axel Springer media award in Berlin on Dec. 1, 2020. Photo: Hannibal Hanschke / Pool Photo via AP File

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — Elon Musk said Tuesday that he plans on remaining as Twitter’s CEO until he can find someone willing to replace him in the job.

Musk’s announcement came after millions of Twitter users asked him to step down in an unscientific poll the billionaire himself created and promised to abide by.

“I will resign as CEO as soon as I find someone foolish enough to take the job!” Musk tweeted. “After that, I will just run the software & servers teams.”

Since taking over San Francisco-based Twitter in late October, Musk’s run as CEO has been marked by quickly issued rules and policies that have often been withdrawn or changed soon after being made public.

He has also alienated some investors in his electric vehicle company Tesla who are concerned that Twitter is taking too much of his attention.

Some of Musk’s actions have unnerved Twitter advertisers and turned off users. They include laying off half of Twitter’s workforce, letting go contract content moderators and disbanding a council of trust and safety advisors that the company formed in 2016 to address hate speech, child exploitation, suicide, self-harm and other problems on the platform.

Musk, who also helms the SpaceX rocket company, has previously acknowledged how difficult it will be to find someone to take over as Twitter CEO.

Bantering with Twitter followers last Sunday, he said that the person replacing him “must like pain a lot” to run a company that he said has been “in the fast lane to bankruptcy.”

“No one wants the job who can actually keep Twitter alive. There is no successor,” Musk tweeted.

As things stand, Musk would still retain overwhelming influence over platform as its owner. He fired the company’s board of directors soon after taking control.

Cortina Watch’s Golden Jubilee Culminates Amid the Splendour of Love and Joy

By

Contributor

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21 December 2022, 10:01

2022 marks a monumental year for Cortina Watch as it commemorates its 50th year of becoming one of Asia Pacific’s foremost luxury watch retailers and distributors. The gala traced the growth and transformation of Cortina Watch over the past half a century, from its humble beginning as a family-run retail store that debuted amid the quartz crisis and subsequently growing from strength to strength to becoming a publicly listed company with over 40 boutiques region, including Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Australia. Throughout the years, Cortina Watch has stayed true to the vision of its founder, Mr Anthony Lim, by putting the core values of trust, loyalty, and reliability at the heart of the business.

This year, Cortina Watch also marked this epic milestone with a series of commemorative events. Some of them include Patek Philippe’s travelling exhibition showcasing some of Cortina Watch’s collection of unique dome clocks and both past and present anniversary editions from the Swiss watchmaker, the Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Bathyscape exhibition, “Happy Sport – Tale of an Icon” exhibition with Chopard, followed by a Franck Muller exhibition in September. Furthermore, Singapore Heart Foundation’s (SHF) third wellness facility – the SHF-Cortina Watch Heart Wellness Centre, was officially unveiled in August. Cortina Watch also collaborated with eight brand partners to launch exclusive celebratory edition timepieces. Together with Patek Philippe, Blancpain, Cartier, Chopard, Corum, Franck Muller, H. Moser & Cie., and Tag Heuer, a total of 16 limited edition models were presented as part of the golden jubilee festivities. Key management personnel of Cortina Watch’s longstanding brand partners also sent in personal congratulatory messages. Some even flew to convene for Cortina Watch’s monumental celebratory gala dinner at the Ritz-Carlton Millennia Singapore on 19 November.

During the gala dinner, Jeremy Lim, CEO of Cortina Watch & COO of Cortina Holdings, attributed the success of Cortina Watch to the strong foundation laid down by its founder, as well as the passion and steadfastness of its staff. “Had it not for our chairman Mr Anthony Lim, who made a bold decision to start Cortina Watch 50 years ago, we probably would not be here

today celebrating our golden jubilee. In our business, trust and passion are always key to our success. And it is the trust that has enabled us to build longstanding relationships with all our brand partners and business associates. Cortina has gone through many ups and downs over the past 50 years, including many recessions and adverse economic situations, not forgetting a pandemic that has made everything even more challenging. However, we have steered through these challenges because of our dedicated and passionate team of employees.”

Since launching its first boutique at the Colombo Court in 1972, Cortina Watch has served customers for half a century. Thanks to close bonds fostered between sales staff and their customers, many of these loyal customers have been with Cortina Watch since the beginning. Some have even progressed to building multi-generational relationships with the watch retailer.

Mr Sunny Lau, Senior Boutique Manager of Cortina Watch Singapore, has even worked at the company since the beginning and gave his best throughout the past five decades. He beams with pride as he looks back on his days starting out, “I started with Cortina Watch in 1972 and personally witnessed our growth from a humble store in Colombo Court to an international corporation. It was definitely not a bed of roses all the way, but as we grew from strength to strength together, I was rewarded with the most wonderful experiences, and I would not have traded them with anything else.”

Cortina Watch’s founder and Chairman, Mr Anthony Lim, also expressed his heartfelt gratitude towards these dedicated staff. He says with great appreciation, “Our employees are a part of our family. We cherish them and their efforts in lifting the company up. Our success is theirs. Loyalty is a two-way street — we need to be as devoted to our staff, partners and customers as much as they are supportive of us.”

In addition, Cortina Watch has always been committed to giving back to the community and championing social responsibility. Donations in the form of cheques totalling S$1.62 million were also presented to several organisations, including the Community Chest (for AWWA), Singapore Heart Foundation, Ren Ci Hospital, Kwong Wai Shiu Hospital, and the Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS). S$1 million was channelled through Community Chest to AWWA Ltd. AWWA provides early intervention for pre-schoolers, education and integration support for children and adults with additional needs, social assistance for vulnerable families, and care services for seniors. AWWA’s mission is to empower the disadvantaged to maximise their potential to lead independent and dignified lives.

Mr Raymond Lim, CEO of Cortina Holdings says, “I think the role of the retailer today, at least from my perspective, is to have an active role in helping brands develop their presence in our markets. This effort entails a lot of trust on all sides: the brands, our customers and ourselves. Trust is what has shaped our work and success, from 1972 till today.”

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