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Lisa Tops Thailand’s 2024 Soft Power Poll

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Lalisa Manobal Recognized as Leading Soft Power Figure

Lalisa “Lisa” Manobal, the internationally acclaimed Thai K-pop star, has secured the top position in Thailand’s 2024 soft power poll. Conducted by the North Bangkok Poll Centre, the survey highlights influential figures and themes that contribute to Thailand’s cultural impact on the global stage.

Poll Results and Rankings

The poll, which surveyed 1,500 participants between December 24 and 28, revealed that 25.4% of respondents voted for Lisa as the most influential soft power figure of the year. Following her are:

  1. Moo Deng, the celebrity pygmy hippo from Khao Kieow Zoo, with 15.2% of the votes.
  2. Butter Bear, the mascot of a bakery shop, with 12.7%.
  3. Danupa “Milli” Kanatheerakul, a popular singer, at 10.3%.
  4. Buakhao Bunchamek, a renowned Muay Thai boxer, with 8.5%.

These results underscore the diverse range of personalities that resonate with the Thai public and contribute to the country’s soft power narrative.

Lisa’s Influence on Thailand’s Cultural Landscape

Spotlight on “Rockstar” Music Video

Lisa’s influence has been amplified through her recent projects, particularly her music video for “Rockstar,” which was filmed in Yaowarat, Bangkok’s vibrant Chinatown. The video not only showcases her talent but also highlights Thailand’s rich culture and culinary scene, further enhancing her status as a cultural ambassador.

The Role of Soft Power in Thailand

The concept of soft power refers to a country’s ability to influence others through attraction rather than coercion. Thailand has increasingly recognized the importance of soft power in promoting its culture and boosting its economy. The government has initiated various strategies to leverage cultural icons like Lisa to enhance its global image.

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Celebrating Thailand’s Cultural Festivals

In addition to influential figures, the poll also assessed Thailand’s most impactful festivals for soft power promotion. The results indicated that:

  • Songkran was viewed as the most influential festival (30.5%).
  • Loy Krathong followed with 18.3%.
  • New Year’s Day garnered 14%, while other events such as the Wai Khru Muay Thai ceremony (9.5%) and long-tail boat races (7.7%) also received recognition.

These festivals play a crucial role in showcasing Thai traditions and attracting international tourists.

Key Themes in Soft Power Promotion

Successful Themes Identified by Participants

When asked about successful soft power themes, participants highlighted several areas:

  • Tourism, Festivals, and Culture (24.7%)
  • Thai Fashion and Clothes (20.3%)
  • Thai Food (15.2%)
  • Sports such as Muay Thai (15.2%)
  • Traditional Thai Medicine and Massage (10.1%)

These themes reflect Thailand’s diverse cultural offerings that contribute to its soft power strategy.

The Future of Thailand’s Soft Power

Lisa’s recognition as a leading figure in Thailand’s soft power landscape exemplifies the country’s commitment to promoting its culture on a global scale. As Thailand continues to leverage its rich traditions and vibrant personalities, it is poised to enhance its influence and attract more international attention. The ongoing efforts to celebrate cultural icons and festivals will play a vital role in shaping Thailand’s identity in the years to come.

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Affordable Housing Initiative in Thailand Sees Overwhelming Response

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The “Home for Thais” project, launched by the Thai government on January 17, 2025, has garnered significant interest, with approximately 270,000 people registering for the program. This initiative aims to provide affordable housing options for low-income individuals and recent graduates.

Registration Success

Impressive Turnout

Since its launch, the project’s website has received a staggering 75 million visits. Out of the 270,000 registrants, more than half (140,000) have successfully passed the preliminary screening for loans with the Government Housing Bank.

High-Demand Areas

The most sought-after location for the housing project is on Vibhavadi Road in Bangkok. Other popular areas include Thon Buri in Bangkok, Muang district in Pathum Thani, and Muang district in Chiang Mai.

Project Details

Affordable Options

The initiative offers various housing options, including condominiums and single houses. For instance, the Bang Sue Km 11 project will feature 1,232 condominium units with prices starting at 1.76 million baht for 30 square meters.

Eligibility Criteria

Who Can Apply

To be eligible for the program, applicants must be Thai nationals of legal age, first-time homeowners, earn less than 50,000 baht per month, and not be blacklisted by the National Credit Bureau.

Future Plans

Expansion and Development

The government plans to utilize over 38,000 rai of unused land owned by the State Railway of Thailand for this housing program. The pilot project areas are expected to be handed over for development by the end of the year.

Selection Process

Ensuring Fairness

Due to the high number of eligible applicants, the Government Lottery Office will conduct a lottery draw for the first phase to ensure maximum transparency in the selection process.

See also  Bangkok Extends Public Transport Hours for New Year Festivities
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Thailand’s Unexpected Chill: Bangkok Wakes to Cool Mornings as Winter Lingers

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Thailand’s unusual cold spell continues to surprise residents and tourists alike, with Bangkok experiencing refreshingly cool mornings. The Thai Meteorological Department predicts this weather pattern will persist until mid-February, offering a rare respite from the capital’s typically tropical climate.

Bangkok’s Brisk Awakening

Capital City Experiences Rare Cool Temperatures

Bangkok, known for its sweltering heat, has been waking up to unexpectedly cool mornings. Temperatures have dropped as low as 59.3°F (15.2°C), a shocking departure from the usual January range of 73°F to 91°F (23°C to 33°C). Residents and tourists are embracing this temporary winter, with many donning sweaters and jackets to combat the chill.

Nationwide Weather Shift

Cool Conditions Sweep Across Thailand

The cool weather isn’t limited to Bangkok. Northern Thailand is experiencing even lower temperatures, with nighttime lows ranging from 9°C to 15°C. The central region is also feeling the effects, with cool to cold mornings and the occasional light fog blanketing the landscape.

Meteorological Explanation

High-Pressure System and La Niña Phenomenon

This unusual weather pattern is attributed to a strong high-pressure system moving in from China. Additionally, Thailand has entered a La Niña phase, which is expected to bring lower temperatures and increased humidity throughout the first half of the year.

Impact on Daily Life

Residents and Businesses Adapt to the Cool Weather

The cooler temperatures are affecting daily life in Bangkok. Street vendors are hoping for increased foot traffic as people enjoy the pleasant weather for outdoor activities. However, authorities are also cautioning residents about potential fire hazards in dry areas and the risk of forest run-off in southern regions.

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Looking Ahead

Forecasts and Expectations for the Coming Months

While temperatures are expected to gradually rise, the Thai Meteorological Department predicts that cooler-than-usual weather will persist across the country until at least mid-February. This extended period of mild weather offers a unique opportunity for both locals and tourists to experience Thailand in a different light.

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Thailand and China Strengthen Ties: Visa-Free Travel Boosts Tourism and Cultural Exchange

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The implementation of a mutual visa exemption agreement between Thailand and China has led to a significant increase in tourism and cultural exchanges between the two nations. This policy, which took effect on March 1, 2025, has already shown promising results in boosting visitor numbers and strengthening bilateral relations.

Economic Impact

Tourism Surge

The visa-free policy has sparked a notable surge in travel between Thailand and China. Chinese tour guides report fully booked schedules from early March through April, indicating a shift in peak travel seasons. This increase in tourism is expected to have a positive impact on both countries’ economies, with Thailand aiming to attract 8 million Chinese visitors in 2025.

Cultural Exchange

Deepening Connections

The visa waiver has facilitated greater cultural exchange between Thai and Chinese citizens. More Thai tourists are now considering China as a travel destination, exploring various aspects of Chinese culture, from historical sites to modern attractions. This mutual exploration is fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of each other’s heritage.

Diplomatic Relations

Strengthening Ties

The visa exemption policy marks a significant milestone in the diplomatic relations between Thailand and China. As 2025 commemorates the 50th anniversary of their diplomatic ties, this agreement serves as a testament to the strong bond between the two nations. It reflects a commitment to mutual trust, respect, and a shared vision for prosperity.

Economic Cooperation

New Opportunities

Beyond tourism, the visa-free agreement is expected to catalyze broader economic cooperation. Experts suggest that future collaboration will focus on high-tech industries, renewable energy, and the digital economy. This shift towards innovation and high-value-added industries presents new growth opportunities for both countries.

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Future Prospects

Sustainable Growth

As Thailand and China continue to strengthen their partnership, the visa-free policy is anticipated to have long-lasting positive effects. It not only promotes tourism but also encourages business exchanges and investment opportunities. This mutual arrangement sets the stage for sustained collaboration and economic growth in the years to come.

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