Puntid Tantivangphaisal

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 NewsThai MICE boom faces hurdles next year

    Thai MICE boom faces hurdles next year

    Thailand‘s MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conventions, and Exhibitions) industry, once on the brink, surged back to 80% of its 2019 glory this year, however, a looming slowdown in 2024 raises eyebrows. Thailand’s MICE industry is poised for a remarkable recovery, reaching 80% of its pre-pandemic revenue in 2019. President of Thailand Incentive and Convention Association (TICA), Sumate Sudasna, highlights Thailand’s allure as…

  • Thailand News340 tonnes of seized narcotics to be burnt, says government

    340 tonnes of seized narcotics to be burnt, says government

    In an unprecedented move to combat the soaring drug crisis, 340 tonnes of seized narcotics are set to go up in flames at the Bang Pu Industrial Estate in Samut Prakan over a two-week operation commencing today, December 26. Led by Justice Minister Police Colonel Tawee Sodsong and Public Health Minister Cholnan Srikaew, the ceremonious drug incineration aims to create…

  • Thailand NewsAIS unleashes 5G marvel in epic sea expansion

    AIS unleashes 5G marvel in epic sea expansion

    Thai telecom giant AIS is set to expand its 5G smart network across the vast expanse of the Gulf and Andaman Seas. This audacious move aims to establish comprehensive Sea Coverage, reaching the widest, farthest, highest, and deepest corners of the country. AIS showcased its groundbreaking Sea Coverage initiative along the picturesque coastal areas of the Gulf of Thailand and…

  • Thailand NewsThe world’s busiest air routes this year revealed: Asia airlines dominate the skies

    The world’s busiest air routes this year revealed: Asia airlines dominate the skies

    OAG, the top-tier data platform for global travel, has revealed the most travelled routes and destinations this year in its latest report. The report, fuelled by OAG’s mighty Global Airline Schedules Data, doesn’t just disclose the stats but unveils a panoramic snapshot of route performances and trends, be it soaring internationally or navigating domestic skies. Once again, the Asia-Pacific region…

  • Thailand NewsDiving boat carrying tourists sinks near Surin Islands, two missing

    Diving boat carrying tourists sinks near Surin Islands, two missing

    The Heaven Tour diving boat sank in the sea around 4 miles away from the Surin Islands, following a trip with tourists for diving. The incident led to the disappearance of two individuals, with 14 being rescued. The search operation kicked off at 9am today, December 23. The Third Region Maritime Interests Promotion Center (SRP.3) revealed that they were informed…

  • Thailand NewsThai BOI reveals game-changing green plan with 150 billion baht EV investment

    Thai BOI reveals game-changing green plan with 150 billion baht EV investment

    The Board of Investment (BOI) of Thailand has declared its strategic vision for the next four years, placing a robust emphasis on the burgeoning sectors of bio, circular, and green (BCG) industries. Speaking passionately at the Go Thailand: Green Economy-Land Bridge forum in Bangkok, BOI secretary-general Narit Therdsteerasukdi highlighted the global trend towards sustainability in business operations. “From BOI’s roadshow…

  • Thailand NewsPattaya floating market: Loss of Chinese tourists amidst safety concerns

    Pattaya floating market: Loss of Chinese tourists amidst safety concerns

    In a bid to revive Pattaya‘s reputation, the operator of the iconic Pattaya Floating Market is sounding the alarm, urging authorities to dispel safety concerns that have plagued Thailand. Amidst the ongoing struggle for a tourism comeback, Sumaporn Srimuang, the market’s general manager, reveals shocking statistics and pleads for a shift in perception. “China remains the linchpin of Pattaya’s tourism,…

  • Thailand NewsFormer Buddhist chief and executives charged with embezzling 30 million baht

    Former Buddhist chief and executives charged with embezzling 30 million baht

    The National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) is set to charge a former head of the National Office of Buddhism (NOB) and two high-ranking executives with embezzling millions from temple budgets. The NACC, after green-lighting resolutions on two alleged temple embezzlement cases, is now preparing to unleash a legal storm upon the accused trio, led by ex-NOB chief Nopparat Benjawattananan. NACC Secretary-General…

  • Thailand NewsMalaysia’s economic miracle: 2024 boom predicted with a twist

    Malaysia’s economic miracle: 2024 boom predicted with a twist

    RAM Rating Services Berhad reveals Malaysia‘s economic future, promising significant growth next year. RAM Rating Services Berhad said in its Economic Outlook 2024 report to get ready for an economic renaissance. The tantalising revelations point towards a potential external demand turnaround, setting the stage for a dazzling economic performance. The domestic front is gearing up for a resilience revolution, riding…

  • Thailand NewsSiriraj Hospital to upgrade elderly healthcare

    Siriraj Hospital to upgrade elderly healthcare

    Siriraj Hospital is set to unveil its Academic Centre of Geriatric Medicine, a game-changer for Thai elders’ healthcare. With Thailand hurtling towards a super-aged society, this initiative, in collaboration with Minor Food Group, promises to reshape the future of healthcare. At a press conference yesterday, December 21, Wisit Vamvanij, Siriraj’s deputy dean, revealed the hospital’s ambitious plan. “Thailand is on…

  • Thailand NewsStaggering investment of 150 billion baht in AOT airports

    Staggering investment of 150 billion baht in AOT airports

    In a move set to revolutionise Thailand‘s air travel scene, Airports of Thailand (AOT) has unveiled ambitious plans for the construction of two new airports and a staggering investment of 150 billion baht. Speaking exclusively at the Section II: Next Step seminar on December 20, AOT’s dynamic CEO, Kirati Kitmanawat revealed plans for the Lanna and Andaman airports. These megastructures,…

  • Thailand NewsThailand surges towards marriage equality for same-sex couples

    Thailand surges towards marriage equality for same-sex couples

    In a landmark moment for equality, Thailand‘s lawmakers have taken a giant leap towards embracing same-sex unions, passing not one but four groundbreaking bills on marriage equality in their initial reading. With an overwhelming 360 to 10 majority and one abstention, the House of Representatives paved the way for Thailand to potentially become the first ASEAN nation to legally recognise…

  • Thailand NewsBangkok BTS accepts WeChat Pay

    Bangkok BTS accepts WeChat Pay

    In a move set to revolutionise the travel experience for Chinese tourists in Bangkok, the city’s iconic BTS Skytrain has opened its gates to the Chinese WeChat Pay. Tourists will be able to enjoy a seamless journey across the vibrant city as this alternative payment option takes centre stage at every ticket vending machine across all 68 stations on the…

  • Thailand NewsClimate crisis: Thailand promises to cut carbon emissions by 40%

    Climate crisis: Thailand promises to cut carbon emissions by 40%

    Thailand has pledged a whopping 40% cut in carbon emissions, up from its initial 30%, following the resounding success of the 2023 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP28) in Dubai. At a riveting COP28 debriefing event yesterday, December 20, Phirun Saiyasitpanich, Chief of the Department of Climate Change and Environment, declared that a serious study based on social, environmental, and…

  • Thailand NewsPattaya: Traffic chaos at Bali Hai Pier

    Pattaya: Traffic chaos at Bali Hai Pier

    The picturesque road from Walking Street to Bali Hai Pier in Pattaya has transformed into a bustling bazaar, causing mayhem for both locals and tourists alike. The 1.5-kilometre stretch, once a serene link between nightlife and island getaways, is now a traffic-ridden nightmare. The situation has escalated to the point where motorcycles are haphazardly strewn across the road, leaving no…

  • Thailand NewsThai PM and Interior Minister slam brakes on gun licences until December 2024

    Thai PM and Interior Minister slam brakes on gun licences until December 2024

    In a bid to quell the rising tide of shooting tragedies, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul have issued a joint directive, temporarily halting the issuance of gun licences until December 19, 2024. The move, effective yesterday, December 20, was officially announced by Traisulee Traisoranakul, deputy government spokesperson, who revealed that the directive had been published in…

  • Thailand NewsBattle of the butter cookies: Arsenal vs Imperial – the red tin rivalry

    Battle of the butter cookies: Arsenal vs Imperial – the red tin rivalry

    It’s a cookie clash between two heavyweights, Arsenal and Imperial, with packaging so alike that many mistake them for siblings in the snack world. But surprise, surprise – they’re the brainchildren of different culinary maestros. Crafted by KCG Group, Imperial cookies boast Tong Theeranusornkij as their creator since 1985. Meanwhile, Arsenal cookies emerge from the ovens of the Siam Ruammit…

  • Thailand NewsForeigners defrauded by Thai woman with their passports leads to arrest

    Foreigners defrauded by Thai woman with their passports leads to arrest

    More than 30 foreigners turned the tables on a 33 year old woman, dragging her to the Pattaya City Police Station with a trove of 40 passports. The former language school teacher, Supawadee Thongnoi, stands accused of a cunning visa renewal scam that left expats high and dry in Thailand. Previously, victims had lodged complaints at the Pattaya City Police…

  • Thailand NewsThailand Winter Festival fuels tourism boom

    Thailand Winter Festival fuels tourism boom

    Thailand‘s vibrant cultural tapestry, woven with ancient traditions and modern spectacles, is driving a tourism surge, with the Thailand Winter Festival taking the spotlight as the grand finale of 2023. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) wrapped up the year with a dazzling Thailand Winter Festival, featuring five cultural extravaganzas, including a Colorful Canals promotion for the mesmerising Loy Krathong…

  • Thailand NewsKBank to create digital currency system

    KBank to create digital currency system

    As mainstream lenders remain cautious about digital assets, Kasikornbank (KBank) is on a mission to create a digital-asset ecosystem, providing a groundbreaking funding route for companies. KBank acquired the licenced digital-asset exchange Satang Corp in October. Notably, this acquisition marks a rare instance of an established lender stepping into the crypto trading platform domain. The rebranded Satang Pro platform, now…

  • Thailand NewsThai government ditches 300-baht fee for tourists: Massive insurance plan

    Thai government ditches 300-baht fee for tourists: Massive insurance plan

    In a bold move to restore tourist trust, Thailand‘s Tourism and Sports Ministry has abandoned the long-delayed 300-baht tourism fee and is now looking for another type of insurance for tourists. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin is spearheading a grand plan to offer a whopping 500,000 baht coverage for injuries and a jaw-dropping 1 million baht in the event of a…

  • Thailand NewsEco-friendly e-pedicabs revolutionise Vientiane’s transport scene

    Eco-friendly e-pedicabs revolutionise Vientiane’s transport scene

    In a groundbreaking move towards a greener, quieter Vientiane, the Laos-Vientiane Sustainable Urban Transport Project has unveiled an innovative non-motorised initiative set to transform the city centre. Spearheaded by the Ministry of Public Works and Transport’s Department of Transport, the project aims to combat air and noise pollution. Introducing a novel addition to the bustling streets of Vientiane, the project…

  • Thailand NewsThai AirAsia X sets sights on Kazakhstan: New route sparks tourism frenzy

    Thai AirAsia X sets sights on Kazakhstan: New route sparks tourism frenzy

    In a bold move set to revolutionise travel, Thai AirAsia X is gearing up to launch direct flights between Bangkok and Almaty, the thriving heart of Kazakhstan. Riding high on the unprecedented influx of tourists from Kazakhstan this year, the airline, under the visionary leadership of Tassapon Bijleveld, the executive chairman of Asia Aviation, the holding company of Thai AirAsia,…

  • Thailand NewsChina’s deadliest earthquake in years leaves 127 dead in Gansu (video)

    China’s deadliest earthquake in years leaves 127 dead in Gansu (video)

    Northwest China is reeling from the aftermath of a monstrous 6.2 magnitude earthquake that struck Gansu province, marking the country’s deadliest seismic event since 2014. The toll stands at 127 lives lost, with fears that the numbers may surge as icy conditions and treacherous terrains impede rescue efforts. As President Xi Jinping mobilises thousands of rescue crews to the impoverished…

  • Thailand NewsHalal holidays: Malaysia lifts ban, allowing Christmas greetings on Muslim cakes

    Halal holidays: Malaysia lifts ban, allowing Christmas greetings on Muslim cakes

    Malaysia‘s halal-certified bakeries are breaking free from a three-year ban on Christmas greetings. The Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (Jakim) declared yesterday, December 18, that businesses can now sprinkle some Yuletide joy on their cakes. The change came after a viral uproar over a leaked internal memo from Berry’s, a popular bakery chain, instructing staff to steer clear of Merry…

  • Thailand NewsWest Thailand: Tiger cubs spotted in secret jungle hideout

    West Thailand: Tiger cubs spotted in secret jungle hideout

    Hidden cameras deep within Kanchanaburi‘s Salakpra Wildlife Sanctuary have snapped jaw-dropping photos of two tiger cubs. Trail cameras, strategically placed by the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, recently struck gold, capturing never-before-seen snapshots of the tiger cubs on August 3. These heart-melting images reveal the untamed beauty of nature’s fiercest felines. Officials from the Department collaborated with…

  • Thailand NewsThai prime minister’s holiday escape revelation sparks controversy

    Thai prime minister’s holiday escape revelation sparks controversy

    Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai has stepped up to shield Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin amid a storm of criticism over his unannounced four-day holiday break to be with family. Phumtham, doubling as the commerce minister, staunchly defended the PM’s right to take a breather, asserting that a holiday is perfectly normal. Striking back at detractors, he revealed that the 61…

  • Thailand NewsMalaysia’s Health Minister reveals bold move: Not returning to Covid lockdowns

    Malaysia’s Health Minister reveals bold move: Not returning to Covid lockdowns

    Malaysia‘s Health Minister, Dzulkefly Ahmad, declared yesterday, December 18, that the country has no plans to reinstate the dreaded Covid-19 Movement Control Order (MCO). “For the time being, we are not considering reinstating the MCO, although a lot of people are talking about it on X.” The minister assured the public that despite a surge in infections, the situation is…

  • Thailand NewsFreedom fighter or foe? Trial of Hong Kong media mogul Jimmy Lai

    Freedom fighter or foe? Trial of Hong Kong media mogul Jimmy Lai

    Media tycoon Jimmy Lai, the fearless founder of the now-shuttered Apple Daily, is set to face the music in a high-stakes trial that could see him behind bars for life. The United States and British governments are sounding the alarm, calling for Lai’s release as he stands accused of collusion with foreign forces under Beijing’s controversial national security law. Lai,…

  • Thailand NewsSingapore hotel receptionist allegedly aids sex workers

    Singapore hotel receptionist allegedly aids sex workers

    A 36 year old Vietnamese hotel receptionist stands accused of not only harbouring sex workers but also pilfering a share of their earnings. The scandal unfolded at the Lion Peak Hotel Bugis on Beach Road, Singapore, as Michael Tay Fook Meng, the 51 year old hotel manager, now dubbed a hotel keeper, faces charges for violating Hotel Licensing Regulations. According…