Year: 2024
- Business News
Kia considers setting up electric vehicle factory in Thailand
Premium Korean car manufacturer, Kia, is exploring the possibility of setting up an electric vehicle (EV) factory in Thailand, as per an announcement made by Kia Sales (Thailand). The move comes in response to the rapidly expanding EV market in the country. If approved by Kia Corporation, the parent company which falls under the Hyundai Motor Group, Thailand would become…
Read More » - Automotive
Time-travel on wheels:Classic car craze hits Thailand
Classic car culture isn’t just a hobby; it’s a global phenomenon that captivates enthusiasts everywhere. It’s a journey through time, showcasing the evolution of technology, design, and the dynamic automotive landscape. From its humble beginnings to its current status as a vibrant community, classic car culture has grown into something truly special. The allure of classic cars goes beyond their…
Read More » - Thailand News
Royal Thai Air Force relinquishes golf course for airport expansion
The Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) yesterday made a startling decision to relinquish its longstanding ownership of the Kantarat Golf Course, situated near Don Mueang Airport, to make way for the expansion of the airport, confirmed a spokesman from the Defence Ministry. Jirayu Houngsub, the political affairs spokesperson at the Defence Ministry, disclosed that the intricate details of the handover…
Read More » - Business News
Thailand’s internal trade dept to cut pig production for price stability
The Internal Trade Department is looking to partner with the Department of Livestock Development (DLD) and the Swine Raisers Association of Thailand, with a plan to cut pig production down to an average of 8,000 piglets each day. This action aims to stabilise the price for livestock producers across the country. According to the director-general of the Internal Trade Department,…
Read More » - Thailand News
Loan rejections soar for Thai homes under 3 million baht
The Thai housing market is facing a significant challenge as a growing number of loan applications for homes priced below 3 million baht are being rejected. According to the Housing Finance Association, the rejection rate has spiked to 50%, highlighting the vulnerability of this segment despite its substantial market size. The association’s secretary-general and chairman of the executive board, Alangkot…
Read More » - Thailand News
Over a million Buddhists gather to venerate Buddha’s relics in Bangkok
Sanam Luang in Bangkok recently played host to over 1 million Buddhists who congregated to venerate the relics of the Lord Buddha and his chief disciples, Sariputra and Moggallana. The Ministry of Culture reported this mass gathering took place between February 24 and March 3. The Culture Minister, Sermsak Pongpanich, revealed that roughly 100,000 Buddhists visited each day during the…
Read More » - Business News
Thai economy set for revival amid global uncertainties
The Federation of Thai Capital Market Organizations (FETCO) anticipates a revival of the Thai economy in the latter half of the year, supported by potential interest rate reductions. This optimistic outlook emerges amidst global economic uncertainties, with possible recessions in the UK and Japan, and China grappling with a prolonged property crisis. FETCO chairman Kobsak Pootrakool believes that the global…
Read More » - Thailand News
Mono next to test AI-generated news anchors on digital platform
Mono Next, a publicly traded media and content provider, announced plans to test artificial intelligence (AI)-generated news anchors on its Mono 29 digital TV channel and online platform. The trial run, set to kick off next month, will be used to gauge audience reactions to these AI-generated anchors. Patompong Sirachairat, Mono’s chief executive, clarifies that the move is not aimed…
Read More » - Business News
Foreign currency deposits surge in Thailand
The past year has seen a significant upturn in foreign currency deposits (FCDs), spurred by appealing interest rates due to global rate hikes. According to data from the Deposit Protection Agency (DPA), member financial institutions observed a surge in FCDs to a total value of 812 billion baht (US$22 billion) by November 2023, up from an earlier figure of 640…
Read More » - Automotive
Top do’s and don’ts for safe driving in Thailand
When you’re deciding on having your own car and gearing up to drive in Thailand, understanding the road conditions plays a crucial part in ensuring your safety on the go. Thailand boasts a network of well-maintained main roads and highways, particularly in urban centers and popular tourist destinations. However, venturing into less-developed areas, such as the back roads and islands…
Read More » - Automotive
How Thailand Transformed its transportation
Thailand’s journey with transportation, especially its railways, tells a fascinating tale of progress, pauses, and policy shifts. Since the Paknam Railway’s inception on 11 April 1893, the country has witnessed the evolution of its transport systems, albeit with a slow expansion post-1960s. Only about 360km of railway lines were added from 1960 to 1990, highlighting a period of slowed growth.…
Read More » - Thailand News
Rama II expressway construction issues prompt contractor downgrade considerations
The construction of the Rama II Road expressway, currently plagued by delays, substandard work and safety concerns, has prompted Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin to consider downgrading contractors responsible for the project. The state budget office was instructed to investigate possible penalties for the contractors involved. Patricia Mongkhonvanit, director-general of the Comptroller General’s Department, was called to meet with the prime…
Read More » - Phuket News
Swiss national’s visa status under review following Phuket assault
The visa status of a Swiss national, embroiled in an assault case in Phuket, is set to undergo review by the immigration police, according to Deputy Phuket Governor, Adul Chuthong. The Swiss national, known as Urs Fehr or David, whose visa is due to expire on March 13, is the operator of several Thai businesses and has a registered foundation…
Read More » - Thailand News
Violent clash between Thai and Filipina trans groups rocks Bangkok
Chaos erupted early this morning outside a hotel on Sukhumvit Soi 11 when a violent confrontation broke out between Thai and Filipina ladyboys. The Thai group assembled in response to an incident today, March 5, where a Thai ladyboy was assaulted and robbed by a group of about 20 Filipina ladyboys. Tensions heightened as the Thai group demanded justice, leading…
Read More » - Thailand News
Unexpected roadside delivery: Thai woman helps stranger give birth
A sudden roadside birth turned a routine day into an unforgettable experience for a Thai woman on her way to a temple, as a pregnant stranger delivered a healthy baby boy in her car. On March 3, Thitiwan Keardpum shared an extraordinary encounter on Facebook, detailing how a heavily pregnant woman unexpectedly gave birth in her vehicle. The post, accompanied…
Read More » - Pattaya News
Pattaya woman injured by glass thrown in dog-caused dispute
A 37 year old local woman named Amawalee Tongfark, found herself in an unfortunate altercation when a glass, thrown by a foreign man, left her with an arm injury in Pattaya. The incident, which was sparked by an agitated response to a barking dog, occurred at a cafe near Jomtien Beach where Amawalee and a friend were spending time. The…
Read More » - Pattaya News
Drunken altercation in Pattaya ends in injuries and property damage
In Pattaya, a heated altercation escalated into a violent incident in a rented room in the Nongprue sub-district, Banglamung district, Chon Buri province. The incident, which occurred at around 2am yesterday, ended in multiple injuries and a considerable amount of property damage. The police were first alerted to the situation when they received a call from the Nongprue Police Station…
Read More » - Pattaya News
Suspect surrenders in Pattaya Bolt rider murder case
Pattaya experienced a shocking turn of events when a man suspected of a brutal murder yesterday voluntarily handed himself over to the police. Piriyapong Nampetcharoenphon, known locally as U, presented himself at the Nongprue Police Station at 12.30pm on Monday, March 4, following an arrest warrant issued by the Pattaya Provincial Court. The warrant was connected to the fatal shooting…
Read More » - Automotive
EV expectations vs reality: The truth behind electric cars
When you’re in the market for an electric vehicle (EV), the allure of cutting-edge technology and the promise of a greener future are hard to resist. Manufacturers tout impressive ranges and revolutionary designs, painting a picture of the seamless transition from traditional petrol cars to electric marvels. Yet, once you dive into the world of EVs, you might find a…
Read More » - Automotive
How Thai weather affects driving in Thailand
Driving in Thailand presents unique challenges, not least of which is the unpredictable weather. Whether you’re navigating the bustling streets of Bangkok or the scenic routes of Chiang Mai, the impact of weather conditions on your driving ability can’t be overstated. From torrential rains to sudden hail, the Thai climate demands your full attention behind the wheel. The adverse weather,…
Read More » - World News
British man dies from vitamin D overdose, spurs health warning
An 89 year old British man tragically passed away after nine months of consuming excessive amounts of vitamin D supplements, leading to a fatal case of hypervitaminosis D. This is characterised by elevated blood calcium levels, which ultimately caused heart failure. The incident has sparked medical professionals to raise alarms over the potential dangers of overconsumption of dietary supplements. David…
Read More » - Thailand News
Thai call center scam mastermind nabbed at border
The Thai authorities arrested a Thai national, on charges related to operating a call centre scam that duped victims into installing fake electricity utility apps and draining bank accounts of up to 1 million baht. The suspect, 24 year old Supharit, who received a 10-20% commission per scam, totalling over 500 million baht, is also linked to a case where…
Read More » - Business News
Thailand intensifies crackdown on illegal short selling
The Chairman of the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET), Pichai Chunhavajira, announced plans to intensify the country’s crackdown on illegal short selling as shares continue to underperform. Currently, the law permits penalisation of only the securities companies that initiate the short-selling order. However, the market authorities are contemplating amending the law to allow the prosecution of both individuals and companies…
Read More » - Thailand News
Bangkok hosts Lim Ko Niao spiritual event for devotees
Bangkok’s Po Teck Tung Foundation currently hosts a revered spiritual event, inviting devotees to venerate the goddess Lim Ko Niao from Hat Yai. The event at the foundation’s headquarters in Plabplachai is a collaborative effort with the Samakkhi Mitrapap Foundation (Thung Siang Tung) from Hat Yai. It runs from March 10 to 13 corresponding to the Western calendar. On Sunday,…
Read More » - Thailand News
Game over: Thai businessman loses millions to virtual love affair
A Thai businessman lost around 4 million baht to a woman he met through an online game and dated online for more than five years. The victim, 40 year old A, sought help from non-profit organisation Saimai Survive after discovering that the woman he had been dating online for five years cheated him out of around 4 million baht by…
Read More » - Crime News
Thai cop spills beans on bid to hush British backpacker’s drugs dealing bust (video)
An unnamed Thai police officer revealed that his superiors attempted to suppress a story about the arrest of a British backpacker for selling Category 1 drugs on a notorious island in Thailand. Andrew Brett was arrested on Thursday, February 29, for allegedly selling ecstasy and LSD to other foreign tourists at the Ecco Bar on Koh Tao island in the…
Read More » - Automotive
Types of driving licenses in Thailand
Navigating the roads in Thailand requires more than just a sense of buying a car or adventure; it demands the right kind of driving license. Whether you’re a resident or a foreigner looking to explore the Kingdom on wheels, understanding the different types of driving licenses is crucial. Thailand offers various licenses, catering to different vehicles and drivers’ needs. From…
Read More » - Thailand News
Thai minister ready to battle over funding for Russian helicopter
Thai Interior Minister, Anutin Charnvirakul, is set to challenge the parliamentary subcommittee’s refusal to approve funding for a new Russian-made helicopter. The helicopter is intended to augment the capabilities of the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM), particularly in dealing with the country’s increasing wildfires and haze pollution. The subcommittee, tasked with scrutinising the fiscal budget for 2024, had…
Read More » - Thailand News
Thai racing champion faces backlash after gym altercation
A well-known Thai racing driver is currently facing scrutiny after a video surfaced online showing the athlete assaulting a Mahidol University student in a condominium gym. The incident, which occurred on February 27, stemmed from a dispute over the use of gym equipment. The altercation took place in the late afternoon at 5.45pm when Non, a 21 year old student…
Read More » - Automotive
Tesla in Thailand: The future of green mobility and autonomous vehicles
Following its debut in Thailand at the end of 2022, US-based automobile giant Tesla continues to expand its influence in the Thai market and it is also exciting to purchase a new car in Thailand. With a test centre open in Ramkhamhaeng, customers can try driving various Tesla models as they wish, buy Tesla products, and pick up their ordered…
Read More » - Thailand News
Thai woman exposes half-naked motorbike rider (video)
A Thai woman shared a video of a half naked motorcycle rider from a ride-hailing application on social media to warn other users. The 20 year old victim shared a video of her ride on Facebook and Instagram. The video showed the indecent motorcycle rider wearing a black jacket without any underwear. The woman stated in the video caption… “Do…
Read More » - Automotive
Thailand’s top e-bikes for sustainable commuting
E-bikes are gaining popularity in Thailand as people seek convenient and eco-friendly transportation options. This trend aims to ease traffic congestion, reduce pollution, and meet the growing demand for greener mobility. To help you find the perfect fit for your needs, we’ve compiled a list of the top 5 e-bikes in Thailand, catering to daily commuters, casual riders, and adventure…
Read More » - Automotive
The motorist’s essentials: Top car parts stores in Bangkok
Quality car parts are the key to a more efficient and smoothly working car. Whether you are a casual driver or an enthusiast, the functioning and longevity of your car are something that takes priority. Bangkok is a bustling city that is known for its grand aura but it boasts some of the widest selection of quality car parts that…
Read More » - Thailand News
Surin school head arrested for drug trade, 2.4 million pills seized
The Thai Ministry of Education is currently carrying out a stringent investigation following the shocking arrest of a school director in Surin province for his involvement in a drug trafficking operation. The director was caught with a staggering 2.4 million methamphetamine tablets and has been promptly dismissed from his position to face the full force of the law. On March…
Read More » - Press Room
Bangkok’s Rama followed the deer as far as Paris
Khon Ramayana episode: “Phra Ram Tam Kwang” (Rama Followed the Deer) is one of the Thai performances that the Thai Arts and Culture Group from the Culture, Sports and Tourism Department performed at the activity area on the rooftop of the Galeries Lafayette department store, located in a major shopping area in the middle of Paris. It attracted a lot…
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