Author: Wadi

Thailand is facing a severe air pollution crisis as Bangkok and 57 out of 76 provinces are blanketed in dangerous levels of fine particulate matter. The Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (Gistda) reported alarming concentrations of PM2.5 particles across the country, raising serious health concerns for millions of residents. Widespread Red-Level Air Pollution Northern and Northeastern Regions Hit Hardest The air quality situation is particularly dire in the northern and northeastern regions of Thailand. Bueng Kan province recorded the highest PM2.5 level at 146.2 micrograms per cubic meter, followed closely by Nong Khai and Loei. These readings far exceed…

Thai Education Council Disputes Low Ranking OEC Questions Methodology and Data Sources The Office of the Education Council (OEC) in Thailand has rejected a recent report that places the country’s education system below most other ASEAN nations. The 2025 education ranking by World Population Review positioned Thailand 107th globally out of 203 countries, trailing behind seven of the nine other ASEAN countries. Conflicting Data and Rankings Discrepancies Between Different Reports The OEC points out that the ranking conflicts with data from other reputable sources. The annual Best Countries Report, which covers 73 countries, shows Thailand in 48th place globally and…

Global Warming Accelerates Iceberg Melting Iceberg A23a and Its Alarming Impact The world’s largest iceberg, A23a, covering approximately 3,500 square kilometers—over twice the size of Greater Bangkok—has become a major environmental concern. This massive iceberg, which broke away from Antarctica in 1986, is now melting rapidly near South Georgia Island due to increasing global temperatures. Experts warn that this melting process could significantly accelerate sea level rise, threatening coastal areas globally, including Thailand. Rising Temperatures Beyond Paris Agreement Threshold As global temperatures exceed the 1.5°C limit set by the Paris Agreement, the iceberg risks breaking into smaller fragments. These fragments…

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…