Prominent Thai scientist faces backlash for threatening behaviour

A prominent figure in the world of science in Thailand came under fire for his threatening behaviour. The renowned Thai scientist Ajarn Pong Pang, however, denied any sexual misconduct, admitting to offensive language usage that caused the harm.

The controversy began when a woman posted about an idol-level scientist’s threatening behaviour, both physically and mentally, affecting several individuals. Following this, The Standard Company, known for its news outlet The Standard, issued a statement suspending the broadcast of Anything in the World is Physics.

The company emphasized its commitment to human dignity and its disapproval of actions that negatively impact individuals both physically and mentally.

Ajarn, the science communicator and host of Anything in the World Is Physics, addressed the incident on Facebook, reported Sanook.

“Due to the recent call-out, a woman spoke of my inappropriate behaviour, creating a ripple effect throughout the online and offline community. I want everyone to understand, whether they love or hate me, I am just a person with strengths and weaknesses.

“My words have hurt others significantly. My language is harsh, especially when I am emotional or cursing someone. I may have realized that it makes the listener feel bad, but I didn’t realize it could dehumanise them, eroding their identity and self-worth.

“People who still care about me are trying to comfort me, claiming it’s not that serious. However, I am aware that my harmful actions have caused real damage to others and I have to accept the consequences.

“I know that an apology may not alleviate the mental harm I’ve caused to many, but I hope they realise that I am facing the consequences of my actions. I am genuinely sorry for my behaviour, intended or not, towards the people I hurt. I apologise to my current and former colleagues whose lives I disrupted, to the woman and many others who were severely affected by my words. I also apologise to society for shattering the expectations they had of me. I am truly sorry for all of this.

“One allegation I cannot ignore, as suggested by many, is sexual harassment, molestation, or assault. I assert that I have never engaged in such behaviour with anyone. However, I accept that in the past, I used inappropriate language or behaved in a way that might have led some to believe I was flirting. As I matured, this stopped.

“I understand that it doesn’t erase my past mistakes. I want to apologise to everyone sincerely. And I assure you that it won’t happen again. I have genuinely realized the impact of my actions. Even though I’ve lost the job I love, many close people, and many opportunities in life, I understand it pales in comparison to the loss experienced by those affected by my words. At least it made me realize my mistake.

“Today, I understand that no matter how much I realize or feel guilty, it might not make anything better. The only thing I can do now may not be an apology but improving my words and mindset, to prevent anyone from being mentally harmed by my words. This will be my goal in life. Regardless of my past mistakes, I sincerely apologize from the bottom of my heart.”