Puntid Tantivangphaisal

Originally from Hong Kong, Puntid moved to Bangkok in 2020 to pursue further studies in translation. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Comparative Literature from the University of Hong Kong. Puntid spent 8 years living in Manchester, UK. Before joining The Thaiger, Puntid has been a freelance translator for 2 years. In her free time, she enjoys swimming and listening to music, as well as writing short fiction and poetry.
  • Thailand NewsThailand’s triumph and tribulations: OECD report urges bold reforms | Thaiger

    Thailand’s triumph and tribulations: OECD report urges bold reforms

    Thailand has made good economic recovery post-pandemic, with tourism as a major boost, however, a recent report from the Organisation for Co-operation and Development (OECD) highlights the need for bold reforms to solidify and extend this triumph. The second OECD Economic Survey of Thailand commends the nation for averting a severe economic downturn during the pandemic, crediting robust fiscal support.…

  • Thailand NewsCovid-19 cases skyrocket after new year holiday | Thaiger

    Covid-19 cases skyrocket after new year holiday

    As the world ushered in the new year with hope, statistics revealed a rapid surge in Covid-19 cases across Thailand, leaving experts scrambling for answers. The Covid wave is intensifying, sending shockwaves through the medical community. According to an epidemiologist from Chulalongkorn University, hospitalisations have soared by 7% compared to last week. Associate Professor Thira Woratanarat warns that respiratory problems linked…

  • Thailand NewsThai PM gives ultimatum on Mor Chit 2 bus terminal | Thaiger

    Thai PM gives ultimatum on Mor Chit 2 bus terminal

    Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin issued a stern warning to a Transport Company chief, threatening dire consequences if the Mor Chit 2 interprovincial bus terminal isn’t swiftly improved. The ultimatum comes on the heels of public outrage and scathing remarks from Move Forward Party (MFP) MP Suphanat Minchaiynunt, who exposed the terminal’s grim conditions. Government spokesman Chai Wacharonke declared yesterday, January…

  • Thailand NewsTying the knot with change: Thailand raises marriage age to 18 in human rights stride | Thaiger

    Tying the knot with change: Thailand raises marriage age to 18 in human rights stride

    The Thailand Cabinet has embraced a proposal to elevate the minimum age of marriage from 17 to 18, aligning with global human rights standards. The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) is spearheading this change, aiming to bring the country in line with international principles. Deputy government spokesperson Rudklao Suwankiri disclosed that amendments to the Civil and Commercial Code, along with…

  • Thailand NewsKo Mai Thon speedboat accident: Captain found drug positive | Thaiger

    Ko Mai Thon speedboat accident: Captain found drug positive

    A speedboat collision off Mai Thon Island near Phuket on New Year’s Eve claimed the life of a five year old Russian girl, with others facing life-threatening injuries. The tragedy took a bizarre turn as reports surfaced, revealing that the 41 year old captain, currently on life support, tested positive for an amphetamine-related substance. Phuket authorities are now under scrutiny,…

  • Thailand NewsBangkok City Pillar Shrine flooded with devotees with new year wishes | Thaiger

    Bangkok City Pillar Shrine flooded with devotees with new year wishes

    Believers swarmed the Bangkok City Pillar Shrine on the occasion of welcoming another new year, seeking celestial blessings for a triumphant start to 2024. The usually tranquil shrine, nestled on Lak Mung Road in the Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang sub-district of Phra Nakhon district, witnessed an unprecedented surge of faithful on New Year’s Eve, extending their spiritual quests well into…

  • Thailand NewsSouth Thailand: Two vehicles used in car bomb attack on the run | Thaiger

    South Thailand: Two vehicles used in car bomb attack on the run

    Yala police warned the public to be on high alert for two vehicles suspected to be primed for a car bomb attack at New Year celebration events in the deep South provinces. The threat is real, and authorities are urging citizens to stay vigilant. Yala Police Station, in a bid to thwart disaster, unveiled images of the potential weaponised vehicles on…

  • Thailand NewsBritish tourist drugged and raped on Koh Tao | Thaiger

    British tourist drugged and raped on Koh Tao

    A 30 year old British tourist has broken her silence about a harrowing incident on Thailand‘s infamous Koh Tao, dubbed Death Island for its dark history. The tourist, named Marijke, was drugged, raped, and abandoned in the middle of nowhere. Marijke recounted the traumatic experience. “I remember taking a sip from a bucket, and a moment later, I woke up…

  • Thailand NewsThailand and China unveil game-changing cargo link | Thaiger

    Thailand and China unveil game-changing cargo link

    Thailand and China have launched a direct cargo rail link, whisking farm-fresh delights straight from Nong Khai to the bustling metropolis of Chongqing via Laos. Agriculture and Cooperatives Minister Thamanat Prompow, a key player in this historic venture, flagged off the inaugural Thai train loaded with the jewel of Thai agriculture – dried longan. This marks the commencement of the…

  • Thailand NewsSuvarnabhumi Airport braces for record-breaking new year influx | Thaiger

    Suvarnabhumi Airport braces for record-breaking new year influx

    Dr Keerati Kitmanawat, the president of Airports of Thailand Co Ltd. (AOT) led a thorough inspection on December 28, of Suvarnabhumi Airport‘s preparedness for the impending new year celebrations. Sources reveal that Dr Keerati is gearing up for an aviation onslaught from December 29 to January 4, with a staggering 6,777 flights scheduled at Suvarnabhumi Airport. This sky-high number includes…

  • Thailand NewsThai PM’s billion-baht lifestyle unveiled | Thaiger

    Thai PM’s billion-baht lifestyle unveiled

    Thailand Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin opens up about his staggering wealth, leaving the public astonished at the opulence hidden behind the political curtain. Once a high-flying business magnate, 61 year old Srettha acknowledged his affluence. The PM attributed his riches to years of relentless work and astute investments. “I can’t deny that I am wealthy.” The National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) disclosed…

  • Thailand NewsSouth Korean YouTube channel explores national parks in Thailand | Thaiger

    South Korean YouTube channel explores national parks in Thailand

    South Korean YouTubers behind the hugely popular Cullen Hateberry channel are teaming up with Thailand’s national parks for an exciting venture to boost tourism. Atthaphon Charoenchansa, the director general of the National Parks, Wildlife, and Plant Conservation Department (DNP), revealed the intriguing collaboration that is set to unfold in the coming year. “We’ve reached out to the Cullen Hateberry channel,…

  • Thailand NewsThailand tourism: 10 provinces elevated to first tier attractions | Thaiger

    Thailand tourism: 10 provinces elevated to first tier attractions

    Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has handpicked 10 second-tier provinces to be promoted as first-tier tourist hotspots on December 26. This strategic initiative, concocted in collaboration with the Thai Chamber of Commerce and the Board of Trade of Thailand, is set to revolutionise the tourism landscape. The chosen provinces, brimming with untapped potential, include Phrae, Lampang, Nakhon Sawan, Nakhon Phanom,…

  • Thailand NewsThai PM in talks at Mekong-Lancang video conference | Thaiger

    Thai PM in talks at Mekong-Lancang video conference

    Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin catapulted Thailand into the heart of Mekong-Lancang Cooperation (MLC) during the 4th Leaders’ Meeting on December 25, seizing the virtual stage with an unprecedented proposal for a shared future of peace and prosperity. Government Spokesperson Chai Wacharonke set the tone, declaring the event under the theme, Join Hands on the Building of a Community of Shared…

  • Thailand NewsBOI unleashes green revolution to fight PM2.5 | Thaiger

    BOI unleashes green revolution to fight PM2.5

    The Board of Investment’s (BOI) board of directors has given the green light to a comprehensive plan to combat PM2.5 particulate pollution. According to BOI Secretary-General Narit Therdsteerasukdi, a slew of measures has been approved to incentivise investments and drive positive change. The BOI’s strategy involves an expansive approach, extending support for community and social development through investment promotion. This…

  • Thailand NewsONWR invests 390 billion in water supply management in 2025 | Thaiger

    ONWR invests 390 billion in water supply management in 2025

    Deputy Prime Minister Somsak Thepsuthin revealed after chairing a meeting of the National Water Resources Committee that the meeting approved a water resource action plan for fiscal year 2025. More than 50,000 items from 24 agencies, eight ministries, 76 provinces, and more than 2,000 local government organisations from Bangkok and Pattaya, were discussed. An amount of 392,510 million baht is expected…

  • Thailand NewsInflux of Chinese tourists set to boost hotel earnings in 2024 | Thaiger

    Influx of Chinese tourists set to boost hotel earnings in 2024

    Chinese tourist arrivals are staging a phenomenal comeback, promising a lucrative windfall for local hotels just in time for the high season. Analysts predict this tourist surge to continue its upward trajectory, creating an economic boom for the hotel industry. Chinese tourist arrivals are making an astonishing recovery this month, igniting hopes for a booming hospitality sector that analysts believe…

  • Thailand NewsThailand and Malaysia join forces to boost economy | Thaiger

    Thailand and Malaysia join forces to boost economy

    Thailand and Malaysia have forged an alliance to supercharge development in the southern Thai region and the northern Malaysian peninsula. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim reveals this game-changing commitment after a late-night summit with Thai counterpart Srettha Thavisin in Phuket. Anwar took to Facebook to reveal the details. “A special joint committee at the highest level between the two countries will…

  • Thailand NewsNeos Air takes off on Milan-Brno-Phuket route: Thai welcome extravaganza marks grand inauguration | Thaiger

    Neos Air takes off on Milan-Brno-Phuket route: Thai welcome extravaganza marks grand inauguration

    Neos Air‘s maiden flight on the Milan-Brno-Phuket route was greeted with a vibrant Thai traditional welcome dance and personalised greetings, organised by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT). The spectacular event aimed to immerse passengers in the richness of local culture, enhancing their travel experience. Italy’s Neos Air, with Flight NO216, officially launched its operations on this exciting route, landing…

  • Thailand NewsNortheast Thailand: Pickup truck driver charged for death of 13 year old schoolboy in road accident | Thaiger

    Northeast Thailand: Pickup truck driver charged for death of 13 year old schoolboy in road accident

    An accident occurred at a zebra crossing yesterday, December 26, where a 13 year old schoolboy got hit by a speeding pickup truck while crossing the road on his way home. A soldier with the rank of sergeant was driving a pickup truck, when the vehicle hit the boy, the impact causing his body to be thrown off the road. The…

  • Thailand NewsMental health crisis: NHSO petitions Thai health minister for urgent treatment reforms | Thaiger

    Mental health crisis: NHSO petitions Thai health minister for urgent treatment reforms

    Thailand‘s National Health Security Office (NHSO) has taken a bold step by submitting a compelling petition to Public Health Minister Cholnan Srikaew. Faced with an alarming surge in patients struggling to access timely treatment and medication, the NHSO is demanding a radical policy change to save lives. The petition implores Thai Health Minister Cholnan to address the dire shortage of…

  • Thailand NewsChristmas exodus: Hong Kongers flock abroad, but tourists stay home | Thaiger

    Christmas exodus: Hong Kongers flock abroad, but tourists stay home

    ‘Tis the season for Hong Kongers to fly out, with a staggering 1.32 million jetting off for the Christmas holidays over the past three days. However, the city’s tourist hotspots are left feeling a bit like a Christmas pudding without the sauce, as inbound visitors lag behind. The numbers tell a tale of two cities: Hong Kong residents embraced the…

  • Thailand NewsKorean actor Lee Sun-kyun from ‘Parasite’ passes away | Thaiger

    Korean actor Lee Sun-kyun from ‘Parasite’ passes away

    Acclaimed South Korean actor Lee Sun-kyun, renowned for his role in the Oscar-winning film Parasite, has been discovered lifeless in a car at a prominent Seoul park. The 48 year old actor was found unconscious today, December 27, and while it remains unclear whether he took his own life, reports suggest he left a note before departing his home. Lee…

  • Thailand NewsThailand’s export surge signals global economic boom | Thaiger

    Thailand’s export surge signals global economic boom

    Thailand‘s exports have skyrocketed for the fourth month in a row, unleashing economic fireworks just in time for the festive season. Thailand’s exports are on a jaw-dropping winning streak, marking a fourth consecutive monthly surge in November. Ministry of Commerce Permanent Secretary Keerati Rushchano explains this economic rollercoaster. “Exports of goods showed a remarkable expansion across the board, with agricultural…

  • Thailand NewsThai workers fleeing conflict zones for lucrative jobs in South Korea: 7,000 positions up for grabs | Thaiger

    Thai workers fleeing conflict zones for lucrative jobs in South Korea: 7,000 positions up for grabs

    The Korean-Thai Chamber of Commerce (KTCC) is set to revolutionise the South Korean job market, offering a glimmer of hope for thousands of Thai workers escaping the turmoil in Israel. The KTCC, having sealed the deal with the Thai government, is now gearing up to negotiate with South Korean local government officials, aiming to open the doors to Thai workers…

  • Thailand NewsBangkok free water refill plan to reduce plastic use | Thaiger

    Bangkok free water refill plan to reduce plastic use

    Central Pattana, alongside influential partners, spearheads the Bottle Free Seas campaign, urging Bangkokians to swap the bottle for reusable options. With a staggering 70 million plastic bottles drowning Bangkok monthly, the initiative aims to flood the city with free water dispensers, starting with the iconic Central World shopping mall. The campaign, a collaborative effort between Central Pattana, the Bangkok Metropolitan…

  • Thailand News3.48 trillion budget approved by Cabinet for next year | Thaiger

    3.48 trillion budget approved by Cabinet for next year

    Prime Minister Srettha, in a post-Cabinet meeting press conference declared that the budget bill, meticulously scrutinised by the Office of Council of State, will be delivered for approval. Typically, budget bills are sealed and delivered before the fiscal year kicks off in October. However, this year’s extravaganza faced a dramatic delay, thanks to the intricate dance of forming a coalition…

  • Thailand NewsThai elderly seek help from ThaiHealth for palliative care | Thaiger

    Thai elderly seek help from ThaiHealth for palliative care

    Speaking at a pivotal seminar on palliative care, Dr Pongthep Wongwatcharapaiboon, the director of ThaiHealth’s healthcare development division, laid bare the heartbreaking reality. “The statistics for 2021 are staggering – 12.5 million elderly people in Thailand, with nearly 47,000 bedridden and suffering. We need your assistance to provide the specialised care they deserve.” These vulnerable patients are at risk of…

  • Thailand NewsNew Year gift baskets examined to ensure safety | Thaiger

    New Year gift baskets examined to ensure safety

    The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA), alongside the Consumer Protection Board and other state agencies, was on a mission to expose potential dangers lurking in New Year gift baskets. Their crackdown involved a meticulous inspection of major shopping hubs, supermarkets, online retailers, and even alms-giving sets to ensure compliance with stringent Thai food safety regulations. BMA’s Permanent Secretary, Dr Wantanee Wattana,…

  • Thailand NewsErawan Shrine: The bombing and astonishing comeback | Thaiger

    Erawan Shrine: The bombing and astonishing comeback

    Towering over the vibrant Ratchaprasong Square, Erawan Shrine, haven to the Hindu god Brahma outshines seven other shrines dedicated to deities like Ganesha, Trimurti, Uma, Lakshmi, Chatumaharajika, Indra, and Narayana. But amidst the spiritual serenity, tragedy struck in 2015, when the Erawan Shrine became the unexpected target of a bombing, claiming 20 lives and injuring 125. Shockingly, an ethnic Uighur…