Author: Wadi

Senate Panel Investigates Uyghur Refugee Detentions Uyghur Refugees Held Since 2013 Under Scrutiny The Senate Rights Committee, led by Senator Angkhana Neelapaijit, has raised urgent concerns about the prolonged detention of 48 Uyghur refugees. These individuals, held since 2013, are reportedly on a hunger strike to protest their conditions and lack of resolution regarding their status. The committee is seeking detailed explanations regarding the circumstances of their detention and the measures being taken to address their plight. Hunger Strike Highlights Dire Conditions Uyghur Refugees Protest Inhumane Treatment The hunger strike by the detained Uyghurs has brought international attention to their…

Wat Phra Mahathat Woramahawihan Proposed for UNESCO Status A Historic Buddhist Landmark in Southern Thailand Wat Phra Mahathat Woramahawihan, located in Nakhon Si Thammarat, is a significant Buddhist temple with roots tracing back to the early 13th century CE. The temple’s centerpiece, the Phra Borommathat Chedi, is a bell-shaped stupa believed to house sacred relics of the Buddha. This architectural marvel reflects Sri Lankan Buddhist art and symbolizes the spread of Theravada Buddhism in the region. Architectural and Cultural Significance The Phra Borommathat Chedi stands out with its gold-leaf-covered spire, weighing approximately 600 kilograms and adorned with precious stones. Surrounded…

Police Crackdown on Illegal Institutions in Koh Phangan Burmese Language School Raided by Authorities On January 29, 2025, police raided an illegal Burmese language school operating on Koh Phangan, a popular tourist destination in Surat Thani province. Four Myanmar nationals were arrested for running the unlicensed institution, which had been providing language courses without proper authorization. Arrests Made Amid Immigration Bureau Crackdown Myanmar Nationals Detained for Operating Without Permits The raid was part of a broader initiative by the Immigration Bureau to address illegal business activities run by foreign nationals in Thailand. The individuals arrested were found to lack the…

PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra Calls for Accelerated Budget Disbursement Investment Budget Spending Falls Behind Expectations Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has urged state agencies to expedite the disbursement of Thailand’s investment budget, as only 18% of the allocated funds have been spent since the fiscal year began on October 1. During a meeting with senior officials, including permanent secretaries, she expressed concern over the slow pace of budget utilization, emphasizing its importance in stimulating economic recovery. Economic Stimulus Through Timely Spending The Prime Minister highlighted that faster disbursement would complement ongoing economic measures, such as the second phase of the 10,000-baht cash…

Nestled in the Andaman Sea, Koh Lanta offers visitors a tranquil escape from the bustling tourist hotspots of Thailand. This island paradise, known for its pristine beaches and laid-back atmosphere, has managed to preserve its natural beauty and cultural heritage. Unspoiled Coastal Beauty A Beach Lover’s Haven Koh Lanta boasts a stunning coastline with nine golden sand beaches stretching along its 30-kilometer length. From the secluded Nui Bay to the popular Kantiang Bay, each beach offers its own unique charm. Visitors can spend their days relaxing on the pure white sand, swimming in the jade green ocean, or exploring the island’s diverse…

Hat Yai, the largest city in southern Thailand, offers a unique blend of culture, nature, and urban experiences. Here are five compelling reasons why you should add this vibrant destination to your travel itinerary: 1. Breathtaking Natural Beauty Hat Yai Municipal Park: A Green Oasis Hat Yai Municipal Park, spanning 200 acres, is a must-visit attraction. Take a cable car ride to the hilltop for panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains. The park features a 65-foot standing Buddha statue, serene botanical gardens, and various religious sites, including a Buddhist temple, Hindu temple, and Chinese shrine. 2. Rich Cultural Heritage…

Bangkok’s public transport system experienced a remarkable boost in ridership following the implementation of a free transit initiative aimed at combating air pollution. The Department of Rail Transport (DRT) reported a significant increase in train usage across Greater Bangkok. Dramatic Increase in Train Usage Sunday Ridership Soars On the second day of the government’s week-long free public transport offer, train ridership surged by an impressive 60.90% compared to the average of the three previous Sundays in January. The total number of trips reached 1,549,622, marking a substantial increase from the 45.29% growth observed on Saturday, the first day of the…

Thailand’s plan to raise the daily minimum wage to 400 baht nationwide has hit a snag, with the government opting for a phased implementation instead of a blanket increase. This decision comes after extensive deliberations by the Tripartite Wage Committee, balancing the needs of workers with economic realities. Regional Rollout Economic Considerations Drive Wage Decisions The wage hike will initially target specific regions, with Chachoengsao, Phuket, Rayong, and Koh Samui district of Surat Thani set to implement the 400 baht daily minimum wage starting January 1, 2025. These areas were chosen due to their high cost of living or strategic economic importance.…

The Thai government continues its diplomatic efforts to secure the release of four Thai fishermen detained in Myanmar since November 2024. Despite challenges, officials remain committed to ensuring the crew members’ well-being and eventual return home. Diplomatic Negotiations Underway Foreign Minister’s Assurances Foreign Affairs Minister Maris Sangiampongsa has affirmed that the ministry has not abandoned the detained crew members. The Thai authorities have made at least three attempts to visit the fishermen, demonstrating ongoing commitment to their welfare. Detention Background Incident Off Ranong Coast The four Thai crew members were detained following a gun attack by Myanmar patrol boats on…

Investigation Results on Gym Procurement Allegations No Evidence of Corruption in Bangkok Gym Equipment Procurement An investigation into the procurement of exercise equipment for seven recreation and sports centers in Bangkok has concluded with no evidence of graft. The inquiry, announced by Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt on January 14, focused on allegations involving 29 Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) officials. The project, valued at 77.22 million baht, aimed to provide public exercise equipment at facilities like the On Nut Sports Centre and the 72nd Anniversary Stadium. Allegations Stemmed from Procurement Terms The controversy began when the Anti-Corruption Organisation of Thailand (ACT)…