Author: Wadi

The Birth of Thai Journalism Unveiling the Roots of Thai Publishing The Thai Press Museum, nestled in the Press Association of Thailand building on Ratchasima Road, Dusit district, offers a fascinating journey through the evolution of journalism in Thailand. Established over two decades ago, this hidden gem showcases the rich history of Thai publishing and newspapers. From Religious Booklets to Modern Newspapers Dr. Dan Beach Bradley’s Pioneering Efforts The museum’s exhibits reveal that the first Thai publications were religious booklets, printed in June 1836 by American missionary Dr. Dan Beach Bradley. His publishing house, established at the Bangkok Yai Canal,…

Opposition Launches Scathing Attack Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra Under Fire In a heated censure debate that unfolded in Bangkok’s parliament on Monday, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra found herself at the center of a political maelstrom. The opposition, led by the People’s Party, launched a barrage of accusations, ranging from tax evasion to prioritizing family interests over national welfare. Tax Evasion Allegations Controversial Share Acquisition Raises Eyebrows The opposition’s primary focus was on Paetongtarn’s acquisition of shares valued at 4.43 billion baht. They alleged that this move was a calculated attempt to circumvent a substantial inheritance tax of 218.7 million baht.…

Prime Minister Rejects Opposition’s Claims Paetongtarn Shinawatra Addresses Censure Debate Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra firmly dismissed allegations of tax evasion during the first day of a censure debate. She asserted that her financial transactions, particularly the use of promissory notes (PNs), were standard business practices that have undergone constant scrutiny. Controversial Promissory Notes Opposition Questions Share Transactions The People’s Party MP, Wiroj Lakkhanaadisorn, alleged that the prime minister had engaged in questionable legal tactics. He claimed that Paetongtarn had disguised share transfers from family members as purchases to avoid paying gift tax on assets received as part of her family’s…

The Scourge of Land Grabbing Defining a Global Issue Land grabbing is the large-scale acquisition of land through buying or leasing by companies, governments, and individuals. This practice often targets agricultural land, forests, and areas rich in natural resources, particularly in developing countries. The phenomenon gained prominence following the 2007-08 world food price crisis, sparking concerns about food security and economic opportunities. Impact on Local Communities Disrupting Traditional Ways of Life While investors and some economists hail land grabbing as a pathway to agricultural development, it often has devastating consequences for local communities. Indigenous peoples and small-scale farmers are frequently…

OEC Dismisses World Population Review Report Ranking Controversy Sparks Debate The Office of the Education Council (OEC) in Thailand has rejected a recent report by World Population Review that placed the country’s education system below most of its ASEAN neighbors. The OEC argues that the findings lack clear evidence and fail to reflect Thailand’s current educational landscape. Thailand’s Position in Global Education Contested Rankings and Regional Comparisons According to the disputed report, Thailand ranked 107th globally out of 203 countries in the 2025 education rankings. This position placed Thailand behind seven of the nine other ASEAN nations, with only Myanmar…

Thailand’s Land Bridge Project: A Visionary Initiative A Strategic Infrastructure Plan The Thai government is advancing a transformative $28 billion Land Bridge project to connect Ranong and Chumphon provinces. This ambitious initiative includes deep-water ports, motorways, and railways, designed to enhance logistics efficiency and reduce congestion in the Strait of Malacca. Economic and Global Significance Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin emphasized the project’s importance in linking the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea. This corridor, which facilitates 60% of global oil transit, is expected to attract foreign investment and boost Thailand’s economic development. Key Phases of the Land Bridge Project…

A Tranquil Oasis in the Heart of Thailand’s Capital Escape the Urban Hustle Nestled in the bustling metropolis of Bangkok, Seri Thai Garden offers a serene retreat from the city’s frenetic energy. This lush green space provides visitors with a chance to reconnect with nature and experience a moment of tranquility amidst the urban landscape. Historical Significance and Natural Beauty A Legacy of Thai Culture Seri Thai Garden boasts a rich history, serving as a living testament to Thailand’s cultural heritage. The garden’s design incorporates traditional Thai elements, showcasing the country’s architectural and horticultural prowess. Diverse Flora and Fauna A…

Health Concerns Rise as Air Pollution Blankets Bangkok Air Quality Information Centre Reports Alarming PM2.5 Levels Bangkok’s air quality has deteriorated significantly, with all 50 districts reaching the ‘orange’ level, indicating a potential health impact. The Air Quality Information Centre of the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) reported that the average PM2.5 levels throughout the city rose to 59.5 micrograms per cubic metre (μg/m3) on Sunday morning, far exceeding the country’s standard of 37.5 μg/m3. Most Affected Areas in Bangkok Five Districts Record Highest PM2.5 Concentrations The districts experiencing the most severe air pollution include Nong Khaem, Thawi Watthana, Bang Khun…

Chaos Erupts at Popular Bangkok Mall MBK Centre Addresses Recent Incident A recent violent altercation between students at the popular MBK Centre in Bangkok has caused concern among shoppers and netizens alike. The incident, which occurred on Saturday evening, involved approximately 20 students from two different institutions and resulted in injuries to five students and one security officer. Gunshot Sound Clarified Mall Management Explains Loud Noise Contrary to initial reports, the loud sound heard during the brawl was not a gunshot. MBK Centre management has clarified that the noise was caused by a metal advertisement panel falling and impacting the…

Doctor Challenges Minister’s Claims Defending the Decision to Resign Dr. Nuttagarn Chuenchom, an infectious disease specialist at Mae Sot Hospital, has defended her decision to resign after 21 years of public service. The doctor’s resignation came in response to what she described as excessive workloads and lack of support in the Mae Sot district of Tak. Dispute Over Doctor-to-Patient Ratio Conflicting Numbers Spark Debate The controversy centers around the doctor-to-patient ratio in Mae Sot. Dr. Nuttagarn initially reported a ratio of 1:8,000, citing the hospital’s responsibility to care for both Thai patients and Myanmar refugees. However, Public Health Minister Somsak…