Aminta Permpoonwiwat: A Rising Star in Climate Activism

Aminta Permpoonwiwat, Thailand’s young climate leader, is making significant strides as a UN climate activist dedicated to unleashing the potential of Thai girls and women. Her journey into climate activism began in her school’s debating club, where she initially focused on researching global warming.

Transition from Debate to Action

Realizing the limited impact of debate on real-world issues, Aminta sought a more effective way to drive change. She joined Saturday School, an organization that sends volunteers to teach in schools across Thailand. However, she quickly recognized that climate education was often overlooked.

• Founding a Youth Mentorship Organization: To address this gap, Aminta established her own youth mentorship organization, recruiting high school students to teach children in rural areas about climate resilience and sustainability.

Representation at the United Nations

Joining the UN Youth for Climate Programme

In 2021, Aminta received an invitation to join the United Nations Youth for Climate programme. She represented Thailand at the UN in both 2021 and 2022, collaborating with young leaders worldwide to draft a youth manifesto presented to world leaders at the Pre-COP 26 climate summit.

Barriers to Female Empowerment

Facing Institutionalized Inequality

When discussing barriers to female empowerment, Aminta highlights the institutionalized inequality prevalent in Thailand. As a public school student, she experienced firsthand how girls are often deprived of opportunities within the education system.

• Cultural Norms and Financial Priorities: Aminta notes that cultural norms frequently prioritize boys’ education over girls’, especially when family finances are tight. In rural areas, girls often drop out of school to support their families during tough times.

Promoting Education as a Pathway to Success

Encouraging Girls to Aspire for Higher Education

Believing that education is the foundation for success, Aminta launched a project aimed at inspiring girls to pursue college or university. She emphasizes that education can help them discover their passions and achieve their goals.

• Impact of Volunteer Teaching: Through her experiences as a volunteer teacher, Aminta witnessed how education significantly improved the livelihoods of underprivileged students. Many of her students came from impoverished farming families who struggled during droughts or floods.

Empowering Girls Through Education

The Spark of Realization

Aminta strives to remind her students of the long-term benefits of staying in school. She encourages them by highlighting that investing in education can lead to success and improved social standing.

• Inspiring Change: “When they realize the value of education and see it as an investment in their future, I can see a sparkle in their eyes,” she shares. This realization motivates them to continue their studies.

Advice for Young Women

Believing in Themselves

Aminta offers valuable advice for Thai girls aspiring for success: have faith in themselves and their abilities.

• Resilience and Power: “As women, we are incredibly resilient and possess immense power; if we know what we want, we can work towards it,” she asserts.

A Role Model for Future Generations

Aminta Permpoonwiwat stands as a powerful example of how one individual can make a difference through climate activism and female empowerment. By focusing on education and mentorship, she is not only addressing climate issues but also inspiring young girls across Thailand to believe in themselves and strive for success. Her work continues to pave the way for future generations of empowered women ready to tackle global challenges.

Special Activities at National Museums and Historical Sites

In celebration of the New Year, the Fine Arts Department of Thailand is offering a variety of special activities at national museums, historical parks, and archaeological sites. This initiative allows both Thai citizens and foreign visitors to enjoy these cultural attractions without admission fees from December 30 to January 1, excluding the Silpa Bhirasri Memorial National Museum and Thai Farmers National Museum.

Showcasing Buddha Statues Nationwide

National museums across the country will feature exhibitions of Buddha statues, providing an opportunity for devotees to pay their respects and seek prosperity during this festive period.

• Bangkok National Museum Exhibit: From December 25 to January 5, the Bangkok National Museum in Phra Nakhon district will showcase a collection of ten Buddha images that are between 300 and 800 years old.

Evening Visits to Cultural Attractions

Nighttime Access to Historical Sites

Visitors are invited to explore the National Museum of Royal Barges, Chankasem National Museum, and Ayutthaya Historical Park during the evening hours, where numerous cultural antiques will be on display.

• National Museum of Royal Barges: Located in Bangkok Noi district, this museum will exhibit eight royal barges and components used in royal processions from December 27 to 29. Notable barges include Suphannahong, Anantanakkharat, and Narai Song Suban HM Rama IX.

Exploring Ayutthaya’s Rich History

Chankasem Palace and Ancient Temples

Chankasem National Museum in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya district invites visitors to explore Chankasem Palace, which dates back to the Ayutthaya Kingdom in 1577. The museum is open Fridays through Sundays.

• Ayutthaya Historical Park: Visitors can explore four ancient temples—Wat Phra Ram, Wat Mahathat, Wat Ratchaburana, and Wat Chaiwatthanaram—every Friday through Sunday until February 28.

Additional Attractions for Book Lovers

Extended Library Hours

The National Library will extend its services until dusk from January 1 to March 31, providing a haven for book enthusiasts.

• Discounts at FineArts Bookshop: The FineArts Bookshop located in Bangkok’s Dusit district is offering discounts of up to 20% on books published by the Fine Arts Department both in-store and online until January 15.

Embrace Cultural Experiences This New Year

The Fine Arts Department’s initiative provides a unique opportunity for both locals and tourists to engage with Thailand’s rich cultural heritage during the New Year celebrations. With free access to museums and historical sites, along with special exhibitions and activities, visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty and history that Thailand has to offer.

Upcoming Elections Following Resignations of Local Leaders

The Election Commission (EC) of Thailand has announced that Provincial Administrative Organisation (PAO) elections will take place nationwide on February 1, 2025. This decision comes in response to several PAO presidents resigning before the completion of their terms, necessitating elections to fill these vacant positions.

Context of the Elections

The recent resignations occurred before the term end date of December 19, 2024, requiring the EC to conduct elections within 60 days. For officials completing their terms, elections must be held within 45 days.

• Historical Background: The first PAO elections under the 2017 Constitution and local election laws were held on December 20, 2020, following the military-led coup in 2014.

Registration Period for Candidates

Key Dates for Candidate Registration

The registration period for candidates vying for positions in the PAO Council and governors is set from December 23 to December 27.

• Provinces Involved: A total of 47 provinces will register PAO presidential candidates, while 76 provinces will register council members for the upcoming elections.

Provinces Participating in the Elections

List of Provinces Holding PAO Presidential Elections

The elections will feature PAO president candidates from various provinces, including:

• Krabi
• Chanthaburi
• Chachoengsao
• Chonburi
• Chiang Rai
• Chiang Mai
• Trang
• Trat
• Nakhon Nayok
• Nakhon Pathom
• Nakhon Phanom
• Nakhon Ratchasima
• Nonthaburi
• Narathiwat
• Nan
• Bueng Kan
• Buri Ram
• Prachuap Khiri Khan
• Prachinburi
• Pattani
• Phang Nga
• Phatthalung
• Phichit
• Phrae
• Phuket
• Maha Sarakham
• Mukdahan
• Mae Hong Son
• Yala
• Rayong
• Lopburi
• Lampang
• Lamphun
• Si Sa Ket
• Sakon Nakhon
• Songkhla
• Satun
• Samut Prakan
• Samut Songkhram
• Samut Sakhon
• Saraburi
• Singburi
• Suphanburi
• Surat Thani
• Nong Khai
• Nong Bua Lamphu
• Amnat Charoen

Exclusions from the Upcoming Elections

Provinces Not Participating

Certain provinces will not participate in the upcoming elections due to previous by-elections caused by resignations or election fraud.

Recent Election Trends and Political Landscape

Overview of Recent By-Elections

Recent by-elections have seen significant political shifts, with various parties gaining leadership in different provinces. The most recent election on December 22 resulted in Pheu Thai candidates winning in Uttaradit and Ubon Ratchathani.

Significance of Upcoming Elections

The upcoming PAO elections on February 1 will play a crucial role in shaping Thailand’s political landscape. With multiple provinces participating and significant implications for local governance, these elections are expected to influence future political dynamics in the country.