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News and Views - January 2008
Headlines - January 4, 2008
Above: Khaosod, January 4, 2008 - Open Dusit Palace for people to pay last respect to the late HRH Princess Galyani Vadhana
Left: Matichon, January 4, 2008 - HRH Princess Galyani Vadhana passed away
About Royal cremationsFrom The Nation: ...There were reports that vendors selling pink and yellow T-shirts to commemorate the Royal Family had switched to selling black shirts. Vendors along Sarasin Road started selling black and white outfits for the occasion...
Office of the Prime Minister warns against black shirts bearing Royal Insignia - January 3, 2008
...The Office of the Prime Minister has set out to deal with the situation and has stated that citizens are not to buy or wear the shirts as it would be considered very scandalous...
Blacklist threatened for bars that break request for 'national mourning silence' - Phuket Gazette, January 3, 2008
Muang District Chief Wisit Kurattanavej this afternoon threatened to blacklist entertainment venues that do not follow the government's request to observe the national mourning of HRH Princess Galyani Vadhana, who passed away early yesterday morning...
(Photo: 2Bangkok.com)For the Princess - January 12, 2008
It reads: We respectfully pay homage to the Princess - May you rest in peace in paradise - By people in Din Dang - Din Dang Office and Dr. Aphichart Halamjiak
Bangkok Pills - News Today Online, January 4, 2008
Bangkok Pills are a combination drug marketed for weight reduction which had gained notoriety a few years ago for the various serious complications reported...
From NottheNation.com: Post fires reporter for working too hard - January 4, 2008
...Editors labeled Boonsak’s action “the last straw” in a series of breaches of the Post’s strict policy of complacency. Editors say Boonsak had also taken to calling sources, fact-checking, writing clearly and caring. Each was a violation of Post Publishing editorial guidelines...
Stylized travel posters from the 1950s and 1960s - January 5, 2008
Left: Bangkok Air-India
Discount airlines in Asia: Low cost, high risk? - New York Times, December 30, 2007
Banking on the Sex Trade - Asia Sentinel, January 4, 2008
A unique financial institution helps Indian women break loose from a debilitating and demeaning profession...
Phuket sails upmarket - The Age, January 4, 2008
Thanks to Danny for pointing this out.
Film-festival probe may turn into box-office bomb - Bangkok Post, January 7, 2008
...However, there are growing fears that every effort will be made to thwart the investigation in Thailand. Said one senior official, without elaborating: "Those who are involved will try and prevent the matter from being pursued any further in Thailand.
"Mrs Juthamas has denied everything and threatened to sue the FBI. However, the issue is causing some sleepless nights for several officials, especially those who were known to have been in Mrs Juthamas' camp."
Said one industry executive: "These investigations are problematic for internal morale. There are cliques within the TAT, just like any other large organisation."
...Many in the private sector recalled that they had opposed Mrs Juthamas' appointment as governor in the first place but now say that many things now begin to make sense.
"During the tenure of the Thaksin administration, the TAT enjoyed record budgets," one senior sector executive said. "Thaksin himself had set a target of 20 million tourist arrivals by 2008, even though many in the private sector knew it was totally unrealistic.
"But, by citing the growing competitive nature of the global tourism industry and the marketing budgets of competing countries in Asean, the administration could always find a way to justify the massive budgets.
"And this does not include the huge extra budgets that were sought to justify bounceback campaigns after the various crises, such as Sars in 2003 or the tsunami 2004..."
From Not the Nation: Anonymous Man Flexes Political Muscle - January 7, 2008
...Anonymous people have typically done well in Thai politics. Typically they cannot be criticized—or identified—but they still exert a huge amount of influence.
In 2006, former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra claimed that an anonymous “charismatic individual” was trying to overthrow him. The coup occurred a few months later, cementing the influence of anonymous people in the Thai political sphere.
“If you are an identified Thai politician, the last thing you want to do is to get into a fight with a figure that is nearly infallible whose name cannot be revealed,” said a Thai academic, who spoke on condition of anonymity in the hopes that it would increase his stature in society.
Anonymous politicians are thought to be much smarter than named politicians because they can avoid any type of scrutiny. The local press loves the extremely adored older men and will defend them at all costs against attacks by politicians who can be referred to by their real names...
Military rule more efficient? - Hindu Business Line, January 7, 2008
(Photo: 2Bangkok.com)Elvis film fest - January 8, 2008
The sign reads: Chalermkrung Music House - Elvis’ Movies - Collection of Presley’s famous films on January 13th 2007
Presented by Jeerasak Pinsuwan, Lek Presley
Manuel Presley, Jareuk Wiriyakit, Jib (Wasu) Sangsingkaew
Arthur Husen, Nong Camp, Satawas Tungkarat
Nong Pro, Paponwee Weeraprawad, House Presley
MC Edward Vanso
Schedule 2 pm - Ticket price 700/500 baht - To make reservation call 0-2225-8757-8, 0-2623-8184-9
Police keep guard over Thaksin, wife - Bangkok Post, January 9, 2008
...For quite a while now, Pol Lt-Col Wathunyu has been seen following Mr Thaksin and his wife Khunying Potjaman everywhere they go, including in London. He was with her when she returned to Bangkok from Hong Kong yesterday.
It is not widely realised that Mr Thaksin has had state-paid bodyguards accompanying him over the 15 months of his self-exile...
From Not the Nation: NTN Editorial: An Epic Choice For The Ages
...The conscientious Thai citizen must now ask himself in the mirror harshly these questions:...
-- Do I wish to have the next government’s corruption managed by a belligerent thug married to a financial advisor for the CP Group, or an elusive gentleman who used to be on the board of the CP Group?
-- Is it better to have the free press abused by a foul-mouth pig, or completely ignored by a mute elitist?
-- Do I prefer my extrajudicial, constitution-violating actions to be the domain of the police or the army?...
Russian woman, detained in Thailand, returns home - Itar-Tass, January 9, 2008
Qantas jet 'lucky' after power loss - The Age, January 9, 2008
Thanks to Danny for pointing this out.
Street smarts in Bangkok - New York Times, January 7, 2008
Patriotic Thai boss not interested in Vietnam switch - ESPN, January 10, 2008
Thailand coach Charnwit Polcheewin says he has no interest in coaching Vietnam's national team because he loves his country too much...
Thai cop on duty despite charge of killing Canadian - Reuters, January 10, 2008
Siam or Thailand: What's in a name? - Bangkok Post, January 10, 2008
...Contemporary observers also pointed out that the change of name was not simply a rejection of a name that had been imposed by foreigners, it was at the same time a preparation for the Thai to assume a leading role among all Thai peoples.
The former British ambassador Sir Josiah Crosby also clearly identified the underlying reason why Phibun's government decided to change the word Siam to Thailand. Crosby stated: ''The fact that the official change of nomenclature should have been made in coincidence with the launching of the Pan-Thai movement may be interpreted not unfairly as the indication of a desire to familiarise outsiders with the claim of Siam to be regarded as the mother-country of all peoples of Thai race.''
Typical for the thinking of the 1930s and early '40s, it did not occur to the proponents of a larger united land of all Thai peoples to ask themselves whether or not the peoples speaking related languages were interested in joining such a new venture, nor whether they were willing to accept Bangkok's rule.
Nevertheless, a growing number of Thais could be forgiven for dreaming of a much larger country, one including northern Burma, parts of southern China, Laos, large parts of Indochina and major extensions on the Malay Peninsula.
The dream of more than doubling their territory, at first a murmur with the weakening of the colonial powers and China, became a distinct possibility, a scenario whereby a subtle, clever leadership should be quick to act when opportunity would present itself.
Premier Phibun was just the man for this difficult task, a master at playing off _ telling the British the Thais would remain neutral at all costs while at the same time secretly manoeuvring towards a pact with the Japanese.
...Should a Thai government ever wish to indicate the beginning of a new era, it could hardly find a more effective symbol than a re-investiture of the old name.
95% of Songkhla small, medium-sized fishing operators out of business - The Nation, January 10, 2008
Minor damage at Cyber World - Bangkok Post, January 10, 2008
...The executive said the fire damaged foil covering the aluminium sheeting on the building's exterior, as well as damaging some sheeting and windows, but there was no damage to the interior or any structure...
New requirements for marriage visas - January 10, 2008
Don reports: (We) paid our annual visit to Immigration this morning, to renew my annual visa. There is a new requirement now: We must submit four (4) photos of our residence, with both of us in all four photos. One photo must be of us standing outside the building, with it in the background. The other three must be of us in different locations inside the residence. No mention was made of photo size, but the samples on the desk were rather large. Today is Thursday; I have four days, until next Monday, to submit the photos or else the visa-extension request will be canceled. We saw several people coming in dropping off photos with the officials and wondered what that was all about until the officer explained it to us. So be warned... Also, we had to draw a map to out place. I believe that was another first.
Princess: Outsiders' views useful - Bangkok Post, January 10, 2008
Earlier: On the forum: More on the Thammasat Thai Studies discussion on the Monarchy
Earlier: In the program of talks, the link to the abstract to the Paul Handley book discussion does not work, but the abstract is at the bottom of this document on the conference site.
Earlier:Groundbreaking monarchy debate defies traditional Thai deference - DPA, January 8, 2008
Earlier: And here's the program of talks
More details: Officer says shooting victims attacked him - Calgary Herald, January 10, 2008
A thread on this is here.
Black Saturday in Karenni refugee camp - Mizzima, January 11, 2008
(Photo: 2Bangkok.com)"Because I love..." - January 12, 2008
It reads: Because I love, may I check for alcohol first, please? Please think before you start.
(Photo: 2Bangkok.com)Stature of Liberty and Mickey - January 12, 2008
An odd display in Central World in Bangkok.
Burma's long-neck women struggle to break out of Thailand's 'human zoo' - The Age, January 11, 2008
[Thanks to Stuart for pointing this out.]
...Now 23, her neck is bare, the rings stripped off in anger after provincial authorities in Mae Hong Son, in northern Thailand, refused to let her emigrate to New Zealand, concerned about the negative impact on tourism of an exodus of long-neck women...
Thailand urges India to reopen Stilwell road - Livemint, January, 2008
Thailand has urged India to reopen the historic Stilwell Road, which links north-east India to South East Asia, to enhance connectivity...
Police watch Thai Studies Conference - FACT, January 13, 2008
Barrow child porn suspect vows Thai return - ic Newcastle, January 13, 2008
(Photo: Graham)Bangkok Haze: Fog? Smog? - January 15, 2008
Above: Graham's photo of rice fields burning in Nakon Sawan.
Below: Pascal notes: ...the entire Bangkok area was covered by thick ugly fog this Monday morning. Attached is a photo, taken from the Ekkamai BTS station, down Sukhumvit Soi 42, which is one way, coming from Klong Toey (Rama IV). On the right is the nearly completed condo project from Nassiri (I think, not sure about the spelling). Taken at around 8:00am.
(Photo: Pascal)
Four global giants vie to supply nuclear plants to Thailand - Bangkok Post, January 11, 2008
...Toshiba and Mitsubishi from Japan, Areva from France and General Electric from the US have each contacted the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (Egat) about submitting proposals to build a new nuclear plant.
Thailand hopes to have four nuclear plants, each costing at least $1 billion, in operation by 2020-21. Vietnam and Indonesia are expected to have nuclear plants operational by the same time...
Vietnam has 7 universities in Southeast Asia's top 100 - Xinhua, January 11, 2008
Vietnam has seven universities in the top 100 in Southeast Asia, as ranked by Webometrics, a Spanish ranking system of world universities...
Here's the full list for Asia. Top in Thailand is Kasetsart University which ranks just above Chulalongkorn University.
Thai Satellite Company Stops Carrying Hizbullah TV - The Media Line, January 13, 2008
..."Al-Manar is Hizbullah's main communication tool, through which it spreads anti-Israeli, anti-Semitic, and anti-American incitement," said Dr. Reuven Erlich, who heads the Intelligence and Terrorism Information Center (ITIC) in Herzliya, Israel.
Erlich called their carrying of these broadcasts "an outrage," adding that the Thai satellite significantly boosted the resonance of Al-Manar's propaganda messages around the world, since the satellite covers Asia, Australia, Africa, the Middle East, and most of Europe...
(Photo: 2Bangkok.com)"Family is safe if they wear a helmet while driving a motorcycle" - January 16, 2008
Shanghai protests over maglev line - CNN, January, 2008
[Thanks to Don for pointing this out.]
..."City planning and environmental departments are very cautious and take very seriously these concerns," the statement said, urging the public not to "disrupt social stability."
It was the second time in two years that the high-profile, costly German-made maglev has generated protests in Shanghai, China's commercial capital. And the government's response underscores how delicately authorities must tread in the face of Chinese who want a say in protecting the homes, jobs and other goods their rising living standards have afforded.
In June, thousands of protesters massed on the streets of another prosperous Chinese port city, Xiamen, forcing the government to delay construction of a $1.4 billion chemical plant. Like the Shanghai protesters this weekend, the Xiamen demonstrators organized by mobile phone text messages and put photos and video of the marches on the Internet...
From Not the Nation: Rich Hi-So Girl Overcomes Advantages To Open Unprofitable Business - January 15, 2008
Shipping baron daughter Yinlak "Pip" Chinthammit defies the odds and inspires others with her incredible spirit and determination to run her own décor boutique...
Movie poster - January 16, 2008
(Photo: 2Bangkok.com)
It reads something like: If you have a chance, what you will do for this land, Simaya people.
This is an advertisement a film that will premiere on January 31. Does anyone know anything more about this film?
A dramatic royal transformation happening in Asia - The Nation, January 14, 2008
...Last year, Thai authorities completely lost their minds trying to stop the proliferation of anti-royal video clips on the video-sharing website YouTube. Indeed, they could learn a thing or two from Queen Elizabeth of England. She understands the ubiquity of the Internet and launched her own channel on YouTube to promote the British monarchy to a global audience. It was a smart move...
'War on Drugs' probe draws a blank - The Nation, January 16, 2008
An independent committee probing drug-related killings during the first Thaksin Shinawatra government has found no concrete evidence linking senior figures with the murders, a Justice Ministry source said yesterday...
Also on this thread
In Bangkok, it's a tough life for elephants - IHT, January 14, 2008
Thanks to Danny for pointing this out.
Protecting good people - translated and summarized from Thai Rath, January 11, 2008
The public is becoming highly-critical of the sad fact that most government officials currently appear to be in ‘neutral gear’, and not eager to complete many of their allotted tasks - but rather to await the arrival in office of the next government. There is, however, one government official who is still devoted to his job.
Kasem Wattanatham is the person thus described, and he is currently wearing two ‘hats’: One as the Deputy Governor of Buriram Province, and the other as the President of the Buriram Provincial Electoral Commission.
As the Deputy Governor, Kasem plays a significant role in the investigation of the illegal possession of public land in the province. It’s a job that few relish, as it involves the interrogation of powerful individuals who are widely-feared.
As President of the Buriram Electoral Commission, Kasem was involved in the investigation of corrupt practices in the recent general election - in which the National Electoral Commission awarded ‘red’ cards to three People Power Party parliamentary candidates standing for constituencies in the province.
A normal man would probably not be prepared to undertake such onerous tasks, for fear that the consequences of his actions might impact on his career path.
Kasem has said, however, that the realization that he is working for HRH the King has made him far more daring in his pursuit of the ‘right action’ than might normally be the case. He has also posed the question as to how ordinary people can survive with integrity if government administrators are too cowardly to tackle such criminality.
Kasem is devoted to his job, and fears nothing. Indeed, he is that rare phenomenon today: a highly-respectable individual. It is only right that Thai people should support and protect such a good person.
The friendliest country, and the unfriendliest skies - NYT, December 14, 2007
[Thanks to Danny for pointing this out.]
...Is it because of the pains taken by the employing airlines not to discriminate against the old, the weighty and the rude — though every other nation’s carrier still opts for the fresh, the courteous and the well-groomed? Is democracy, in short, showing its shadow side by reminding us that that frazzled, grandfatherly brute with a headache has rights the same as yours, even though he’s there (purportedly) to make you feel comfortable and you only to “sit back and enjoy the flight”?...
Indians hit the road amid elephants - NYT, January 11, 2008
Thanks to Danny for pointing this out.
Ayutthaya under threat of delisting by Unesco - Bangkok Post, January 16, 2008
...Untidiness around the historical site and poor city planning has triggered concern among relevant agencies that the site would no longer meet the standards set for it to retain its status.
Tharapong Sirsuchart, Unesco's secretary for the International Council on Monuments and Sites (Icomos) in Thailand, played down the concern, saying that the overall condition of the site was still good.
But, he said, the Unesco experts might issue a ''warning'' to the government over poor management of the heritage site's surrounding area...
(Photo: Sadortu for 2Bangkok.com)Protesting the dam - January 14, 2008
Sadortu reports: This is Ban Thataphang Thambon Maeyuam, Amphur Maesarieng, Mae Hong Son province. As we heard, this village located at the place where it will be built Salawin Dam in the future.
Above: If there is a flood, where will we be? Below: We will stay here forever.
(Photo: Sadortu for 2Bangkok.com)
Tesla Downunder - January 17, 2008
Nothing to do with Thailand, but interesting...
Bangkok Thai resident goes on Ya-E rampage - Pattaya Daily News, January, 2008
Threadworms living in human eyes discovered in Vietnam - Vietnam Net, January 16, 2008
Ha Noi Medical University's Parasitology Department yesterday said they identified a new threadworm parasite present in human eyes in Vietnam...
On the forum: Fah Diew Kan is back online
Yesterday: Fah Diew Kan webboard still accessible?
It seems the webboard of Fah Diew Kan website is still working.
Earlier: Fah Diew Kan website shut down
Thailand "Party Free"? - January 17, 2008
Tony was one of many readers who reported: According to the headline, Thailand is now "party free". Thank goodness!: Thailand changed from "Not Free" to "Party Free" : US Freedom House
Fractious Politics Dampen Thai Business - Oxford Analytica, January 15, 2008
...Conditions for foreign investors have deteriorated since the 2006 coup that ousted former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra; an increase in nationalism has coincided with a slowdown in growth. The Japan External Trade Organization warned last month that an increasing number of Japanese companies were relocating to Vietnam due to political uncertainties, as well as rising production costs caused by output constraints. Electronics and automotive industries--Japan's two leading manufacturing segments--have led the exodus. New restrictions on foreign investors have caused particular concern, as well as the extent to which the state is maintaining a role in the economy...
(Photo: Graham)Man with a lizard and monkey on a motorbike in Krabi Province - January 18, 2008
Sulak Sivaraksa to sue police commander and Gen Surayud for banning his book - Prachatai, January 16, 2008
...On Oct 1, 2007, Pol Maj Gen Sombat Suphajiva acting as printing authority issued Order 5/2007 banning Sulak's book that criticizes Thailand's democracy, alleging that the material 'may cause unrest and degrade good morals' in Thai society. Copies of the book have been confiscated by the police since.
Sulak appealed to Interior Minister Gen Surayud Chulanont on Oct 8, 2007, and never received a response. So he decided to ask the Administrative Court to lift the ban order and have the defendants pay him damages of 1,094,000 baht with an annual interest rate of 7.5% starting from the date of prosecution...
Download Sulak's banned book (in Thai)
(Photo: Graham)Tsunami warning sign in Phuket - January 17, 2008
Brutal killing of (citizen journalist) Wei Wenhua underscores the evils of China’s “urban management” system - CMP, January, 2008
(Photo: 2Bangkok.com)Airport link bridge span reaching across the expressway - January 18, 2008
Electoral corruption must be considered without bias - translated and summarized from Thai Rath, January 12, 2008
The Chairman of the Election Commission has for the first time expressed his concerns over the issue of whether the Deputy Leader of the People Power Party - Yongyut Tiyapairat (a party-list parliamentary candidate) - should receive a ‘red card’ for electoral infringements.
The Constitution and its associated laws both fail to spell out what should be done if a party-list parliamentary candidate receives a ‘red’ card. Even the Electoral Commission itself does not know what should be done in this case.
The conundrum is as to whether a political party should be disbanded if a ‘red’ card is awarded to its deputy leader. But electoral law does apparently stipulate that a party should be disbanded if one of its members is involved in corrupt electoral practice.The Election Commission must consider this matter very carefully, with strict regard to the Constitution, if it is to avoid being blamed over this vital decision.
No more "Hard Talk" - January 19, 2008
One of many readers who reported: You've probably heard that Thepchai Yong took early retirement from "The Nation" so he could take up temporary duties with the new Thai Public Broadcasting Service without a conflict of interest. ...I'm guessing that means there will be no more Hard Talk; that's probably why there was not one this week.
"Dubai is nuts!!!" - January 19, 2008
Really amazing! Thanks to Carleton for pointing this out.
And the main page of the site. More on Al Burj and Burj Dubai. And a thread on this subject is here.
Kanchanaburi's Baan Unrak orphanage: A place to call home - The Nation, January 13, 2007
Pioneering Thai stars not paid by City - The Nation, January 18, 2008
[Interesting indications of what things cost in this article.]
...Fullback Suree admitted he had signed the City contract without knowing any of the details.
"Nobody told me about the contents of the contract. Some said the deal would take effect from January 1. Worawi [Makudi, the president of Football Association of Thailand] told me we would each receive around Bt300,000 a month.
"Almost two months after the contract signing, we still haven't been paid. I survive each day with just the training wage from the national team, which is Bt1,000 a day. That only gets me through the day. I wanted to know the details of the contract but I dared not ask the seniors...
Reclaiming eyesores - Bangkok Post, January 18, 2008
Areas under expressways to be developed and put to better use under a plan by Bangkok authorities...
US movie exec charged over Thai festival bribes - Guardian Unlimited, January 18, 2008
New airport runway on the Portuguese island of Madeira - madeira-web.com, January, 2008
Nothing to do with Thailand, but interesting.
(Photo: Graham)Elephant in a truck 30km north of Supan Buri - January 19, 2008
(Photo: Graham)
(Photo: 2Bangkok.com)"BKK": Mural wall at Chulalongkorn University - January 19, 2008
A handicapped democracy - translated and summarized from Krungthep Turakit, January 14, 2008
[Yongyut has since been approved...]
The Electoral Commission (EC) has not yet approved the selection of the party-list candidate Yongyut Tiyapairat - the Deputy Leader of the People Power Party (PPP) - to sit in Parliament. An investigation by the Special Branch of the Royal Thai Police has already concluded that Yongyut broke electoral law in the recent general election.
This sensitive case has been protracted by the fact that Yongyut is an executive of the PPP. Added to which, if his guilt is proven, the entire party could be disbanded.
This case demonstrates the inadequacies of the Thai system of democracy when confronted with a contentious electoral result. It also shows that the EC is incapable of efficiently carrying out its official responsibilities. It is known, for example, that some EC members are also supporters of powerful politicians.
The current inadequacy of the Thai system of democracy is also partly the fault of our numerous ambitious politicians - who will stop at nothing to be elected.
In pictures: Eating insects in Thailand - BBC, January, 2008
Thanks to Don for pointing this out.
Chinese internet users up to 210 million - AP, January 18, 2008
Thanks to Nils for pointing this out.
(Photo: Graham)Provinces burning - January 19, 2008
Graham reports: Saturday night, about 9pm, 40 km south of Nakon Sawan
Concern over those who are weary of politics - translated and summarized from Thai Rath, January 15, 2008
A Dusit Rajabhat University Opinion Poll, conducted on those aged between 8 and 15 years old in the Bangkok metropolitan area, has revealed that many young people are increasingly bored with politics and the sleaze that surrounds it. Many juveniles are reported to believe that national politics is very corrupt and involves numerous conflicts between political groupings. Such opinions are essentially no different from those of our grown-ups, who are also apt to say that they are fed-up with politics. They, too, express dissatisfaction with the kind of politicians who they say will stop at nothing to win an election and gain a position of power in government.
I wish to comment that this is a serious problem for this country, as our youth will one day be eligible to vote. The enthusiastic participation of young people, in the electoral process, will be essential for the further development of our system of democracy.
Worrying about those who have become bored of politics - translated and summarized from Thai Rath, January 15, 2008
Most Thais will not be particularly surprised by the results of a recent Dusit Opinion Poll. This poll shows that many young Bangkok people - aged between eight and fifteen - are highly aware that this country has numerous political problems. The problems, this social group thus describe, include ‘disunity’, ‘corruption’ and ‘selfishness’. Most young people say that they do not wish to grow up to be politicians, as they consider such a career to be very stressful.
It is not just kids who have a negative image of Thai politicians and the local political system, as their seniors also appear to have become increasingly disillusioned with the two. Adults are often reported as saying that no matter how many coups occur, most politicians are incapable of changing their power-hungry ways.
The results of this poll are very worrisome. If kids express a hate of politics - not wishing to vote or participate in it - and adults have a similarly negative view, how is the Thai system of democracy ever likely to improve? In this way, our political system would continue to be largely the domain of professional politicians - with the public opting not to intervene in any form that could force change for the better.
Still life with Apple knockoffs: Thailand - January, 2008
CASBAA Releases “Thailand in View” - January, 2008
...According to the report, Thailand’s pay-TV penetration remains relatively low compared with other Asian markets, with just 14.3% of 18.7 million Thai TV households.
...There is also room for significant pay-TV advertising growth. As of now, the Thai government has only given tacit approval for pass-through, non domestic pay-TV advertising, while privately owned pay-TV operators at this time cannot carry any domestic advertising at all, which has suppressed the willingness of industry players to further invest in this sector. The industry hopes that recently-passed broadcasting legislation will unambiguously pave the way for lifting the advertising ban...
(Photo: Graham)"Dead end Road" - January 23, 2008
Tollway linking ring roads still awaits nod - Bangkok Post, January 21, 2008
...If approved, the elevated tollway, stretching 31km, would start from the western part of the eastern ring road at Kasetsart-Nawamin road in Khan Na Yao district, overlap the third-stage expressway, head to Kasetsart University and then the Tiwanond intersection, from where it will connect the Rattanatibet road, cross the Chao Phraya river and link with the western ring road in Bang Yai district, Nonthaburi...
Subway to profit by 2011 - Passenger numbers still well below target - Bangkok Post, January 21, 2008
...The subway, which runs from Hua Lamphong to Bang Sue with a total distance of 20 kilometres, currently carries 195,000 passengers daily. BMCL hopes for 210,000 daily passengers by the end of the year...
...'It's not until we reach 300,000 daily passengers, which will hopefully happen in the next two to three years, that we would be able to make a profit from the operations,'' he said.
...BMCL and Bangkok Mass Transit System (BTS), which operates two Skytrain elevated rail lines, can carry a combined 600,000 passengers a day...
Lessons of democracy from Sikkim - The Nation, January 22, 2008
Thailand – Ladies' Choice - TAT News, January, 2008
Thailand needs public media - translated and summarized from Krungtep Turakit, January 16, 2008
The Information Technology (IT) Revolution - over the past twenty years - has not only greatly changed the general public’s access to information, but has also significantly changed this country’s economy and society.
In this complex, fiercely-competitive and rapidly-changing world, most citizens are interested in public media that provide advantageous data to abet their daily struggle for survival.
The Thai government has made a good beginning with its decision to convert the TiTV television station into the country’s first public TV channel. The resulting organization will be renamed as the Thai Public Broadcasting Service (TPBS-TV). It will be necessary for the government to quickly explain to the general public the necessity of such a station, as most Thais are currently rather parochial - and rather prone to only look for the short-term advantage in any new situation.
The new public station will present a significant challenge to both the Thai government and its citizens.
(Photo: Graham)Ice cream vendor - January 23, 2008
Thai army council cedes power to Thaksin - Financial Times, January 22, 2008
[We are not sure, but it seems that "cedes power to Thaksin" headline was quickly changed (although it still appears on some regional feeds this morning). In any case, it is probably truer than the author realizes.]
Condoning rape in Thai TV dramas - Bangkok Post, January 23, 2008
...The most serious concern is the depiction of rape in drama, which somehow appears to be a new trend for this industry. At least three productions - one has gone off the air and one is currently being broadcast - involve male lead characters resorting to rape as a means of revenge or punishment.
The storyline of the three romances is much the same: the lead character is so angry and frustrated with the woman he wrongly takes to be "bad" and so rapes her in order to "punish" her.
Only when he finds out that the victim is actually good and innocent (a virgin, too) does he fall in love with her and tries to win her heart through many travails. It's also typical that the female loves him back, disregarding the man's anger management problem. Then it's a happy ending.
Another similarity is that these productions are likely to be smash hits. Likhit Kamathep, which has just ended, enjoyed huge ratings. Popular actress Ann Thongprasom starred as the lead, who carries the child of her lawful husband's son after she is raped...
Poet arrested after coded protest - The Irrawaddy, January, 2008
Burmese poet Saw Wai has been arrested after authorities deciphered a piece of his work that contained a hidden message criticizing junta leader Than Shwe, according to sources within Rangoon’s literary circle...
Viet Nam's road project to ease traffic woes choking economic expansion - ADB, January 23, 2008
Faced with an inefficient and costly transport system and the growing needs of a rapidly expanding economy, Viet Nam plans to complete a major road project that will help decongest its largest city and economic hub...
Muhammadiyah: Thai govt should use soft power in dealing with the South - Antara News, January 23, 2008
...Din said, the soft power approach can be made by sending propagators who can convey enlightenment in their propagation.
The propagators, he said, will deliver sermons to emphasize that Islam is a religion of peace, justice and development...
Nation Group to sell office buildings - The Nation, January 25, 2008
The Nation Multimedia Group (NMG) is selling both its head-office building and the Nation Tower on Bang Na-Trat Road, valued at a combined Bt1.38 billion...
Strange fruit in Kalasin - Prachatai, January 23, 2008
RIGHTS-THAILAND: War on Drugs Massacre - Officials Scot-Free - IPS, January 24, 2008
BTS likely to miss 2008 targets - Bangkok Post, January 24, 2008
...Anat Arbhabhirama, an adviser to the BTS board, said this year would be the first since the skytrain opened almost eight years ago that daily passenger totals would rise by less than 10%.
At present, roughly 420,000 passengers use the two Skytrain lines on weekdays and 300,000 to 350,000 on weekends, he said...
"We are a good partner" - Tesco public relations campaign - January 25, 2008
Thailand Collapses into Democracy - ShortNews.com, January, 2008
Apparently this "article" was removed from the news summary site, ShortNews.com because it included comedic editorializing. Here is the version from Goggle cached: Without any US invasion, carpet bombing or even massive sanctions, Thailand’s rulers have for some unknown reason ended 16 months of military junta and restored parliamentary rule to its citizens.
Billionaire businessman, Thaksin Shinawatra, the former leader of Thailand, was exiled to Britain in a coup after extensive accusations of corruption. His party, the People Power Party (PPP), won almost half the seats in the lower house.
Current PPP leader Samak Sundaravej will most likely be his successor as Prime Minister. Pundits in Washington are still baffled as to how democracy could take root without their permission and without outside intervention.
(Photo: 2Bangkok.com)"Please dress in a formal manner" - January 26, 2008
Left: Sign in the Immigration One-Stop Shop.
CB was one of many to point out: Regarding the lovely sign in the One Stop Shop, you missed the obvious point that what they really objecting to is low class dark skinned people. It's correct to be a yellow Chinese Thai guy.
Lust or gluttony: Which sin brought you to Bangkok? - Vancouver Westender, January 25, 2008
...It’s a shame that Bangkok’s reputation is often framed by the prominence of its notorious clubs and bars. In a perfect world, Bangkok would be most famous for something else you can pick up on the street — the best variety of wonderful, cheap food anywhere in the world. It’s almost miraculous...
Huge airport sculpture to be moved for fire safety reasons - Bangkok Post, January 25, 2008
Army warns dispute could have repercussions - Bangkok Post, January 25, 2008
The Defence Ministry is concerned about Cambodia's tough stance on seeking World Heritage listing of Preah Vihear, the ancient Khmer ruins on the Thai-Cambodian border. Defence Ministry spokesman Pichasanu Putchakarn said Cambodia has ignored the government's suggestion the two countries jointly propose the historical site for Unesco listing.
If Cambodia does it alone, it is feared that Thailand may lose its land around the ancient sanctuary, which has yet to be demarcated, he said...
(Photo: Narut)Grief trucks - January 26, 2008
Narut sends this interesting photo of a fleet of trucks parked off a Bangkok side street.
Raids new blow to American museums - AP, January, 2008
...Federal agents raided several Southern California museums on Thursday, mostly in search of artifacts allegedly taken from Thailand's Ban Chiang archeological site, one of the most important prehistoric settlements ever discovered in Southeast Asia. Authorities believe they were smuggled into the U.S. and donated at inflated prices so collectors could claim fraudulent tax deductions.
Court documents say a 79-year-old smuggler involved in the scheme boasted to an undercover agent that he had more items from Ban Chiang than Thailand itself did. He said he was being sent the items as they were being dug up, in violation of Thai and international law...
Nigerian scam - January 26, 2008
New take on the Nigerian scam - Refunds for victims:
FIDELITYBANK/ UNITED NATIONS 2008 SCAM VICTIMS COMPENSATIONS PAYMENTS.
FRAUD VICTIMS/$800,000 BENEFICIARIES.
REF/PAYMENTS CODE:FCB/06654 $800,000 USD.
Attention,
I write to bring to your notice as a delegate from the Nigerian Government Reimbursement Committee under the strict supervision of the United Nations
to pay 230 Nigerian 419 scam victims the sum of $800,000 USD (Eight Hundred Thounsand Dollars) each.You are however listed as one of the beneficiaries for these payments.You are expected to get back to us for your immediate reimbursement...
Ministry of Public Health to issue complete smoking ban on February 11th - PRD, January 25, 2008
...The new stipulation will completely ban smoking in pubs, bars, restaurants, all types of markets both indoor and outdoor including Chatuchak market, flea markets and all publicly accessed area’s both air conditioned and non-air conditioned. The clause will take effect on February 11th...
(Photo: 2Bangkok.com)Logo? - January 26, 2008
Incredibly phallic logo on a company banner in the Din Daeng area.
'I Little Slave': An Interview With Bounsang Khamkeo - World Press Review, January 24, 2008
Bounsang Khamkeo survived seven years in the secret jungle prisons of the Communist Pathet Lao with the idea that one day he would survive to bear witness...
New mother's death preventable: coroner - The Age, January 25, 2008
[Thanks to Stuart for pointing this out.]
...The Siriwans decided to have their child in Melbourne rather than Thailand, where Ms Siriwan was a Thai Airways air hostess, to get the best possible care.
But after the natural birth of her daughter Nerissa, Mrs Siriwan bled heavily, and when her condition deteriorated, her obstetrician Maurice Lichter ordered her transfer to another hospital for a hysterectomy.
But this was delayed by about 20 minutes when Dr Lichter realised the Siriwans did not have private health insurance.
He switched the transfer to Monash Medical Centre, despite Mr Siriwan telling Dr Lichter he would pay for whatever treatment his wife needed, Ms Spanos said in her findings.
Despite having a hysterectomy once arriving at Monash Medical Centre, Mrs Siriwan died there at 2.15pm...
Minister Hails Burmese Medicines ‘Best in Southeast Asia’ - The Irrawaddy, January, 2008
Burma is producing the best pharmaceuticals in all Southeast Asia, according to Minister of Industry-1 Aung Thaung...
Thailand claims to be enforcing copyrights - UPI, January 26, 2008
The head of the Thai intellectual property department said Saturday she hopes to convince the United States that Thailand has improved its record on piracy...Thailand optimistic US will improve intellectual property status - TNA, January 26, 2008
Armed with substantial confidence that Thailand had sufficiency suppressed the piracy of US intellectual property during 2007, the chief of the Intellectual Property Department said she hoped Washington would upgrade Thailand from the current priority watch list later this year...
Thailand bans book criticising 2006 coup - Reuters, January 28, 2008
..."A Coup for the Rich", by political scientist Giles Ungphakorn, was ordered off the shelves at Thammasat University's bookstore last week, the only shop in Thailand that sold the 144-page book.
"The book has been banned and is under investigation concerning charges of lese majeste," police lieutenant Santi Piwtongkam told Reuters.
..."The first inkling I received was when Thammasat returned the unsold copies today," he told Reuters. "Given that the print run was almost sold out, it's a bit late to be cracking down".
And DD points out the book is available for download here: A Coup for the Rich (pdf)
2,000 lights out at Suvarnabhumi - Visibility at night a problem, say pilots - Bangkok Post, January 28, 2008
...The delay in fixing the broken lights occurred because AoT placed an order for many lightbulbs at one time, he said.
Mr Chaisak said he had once suggested AoT change its buying method.
Instead of ordering a large number of lightbulbs at the same time, he said, AoT should buy smaller numbers of replacement stock periodically, when only some bulbs were not functioning...
EU takes 'erratic' Thai tariffs to WTO - Bangkok Post, January 28, 2008
...European spirits exporters welcomed the EU's call on the WTO to pressure Thailand to change its ''arbitrary'' tariff system imposed since the 2006 coup.
BMA requests all districts to cancel entertaining activities during Valentine’s - PRD, January 28, 2008
Thailand praises Suharto's contributions to ASEAN - Earthtimes, January 28, 2008
..."Thailand deeply appreciates the enormous contributions His Excellency General Suharto rendered to the causes of peace and security in the region, to our efforts to strengthen regional cooperation as well as the expansion of the relationship between the Kingdom of Thailand and the Republic of Indonesia," said Surayud...
Steam Trains in Thailand - Thai Blogs, January 24, 2008
Thanks to Lance for pointing this out.
Property in Thailand: Beach huts for the billionaire backpacker - Telegraph, January, 2008
Top Aiba official slams Thailand boxing organizers - Inquirer, January, 2008
The highest ranking international amateur boxing official present here spent official time Friday berating the messy opening of the Asia Olympic Boxing Qualifying tournament, short of announcing that Thailand has no business hosting the prestigious regional event...
Celebrity chef is elected as Prime Minister of Thailand - Independent, January 28, 2008
[As noted last week, the foreign press seems to be having fun characterizing the new PM.]
Thailand's parliament has chosen as its new prime minister a pugnacious celebrity chef and self-confessed "front man" for his ousted predecessor Thaksin Shinawatra...
Earlier: Thailand's tough talking TV cook - AP, January 22, 2008
Samak Sundaravej -- the man likely to become Thailand's next prime minister -- is known for his sharp tongue and short temper...Burmese generals probably happy with Thailand’s new government - The Irrawaddy, January 29, 2008
The junta no doubt views the new prime minister, Samak Sundaravej, as a proxy for deposed Prime Minister Thaksin Sinawatra, as does most of the Thai public. Thus, they probably anticipate much smoother—and more supportive—relations with Thailand’s new government...
Myanmar migrants fear worst from new Thai government - Reuters, January 29, 2008
...However, the prospects of positive change were slim, with many Thai officials deliberately hampering alien worker registration to keep wages low, he said.
"The worse the situation for the migrants, the cheaper the labour for the Thai businessmen," Ko Htwe said. "The new government will not change things..."
And another classic from NottheNation: NTN Editorial: It's Time For Samak To Resign
...Yes, PPP may have won the election, but it’s clear to us that all journalists hate Samak with a passion. And if society’s gatekeepers of the truth and democracy don’t like Samak, how good can he really be?...
Follow Thailand in exporting food culture: council - Taipei Times, January 28, 2008
Taiwan should emulate Thailand by marketing its traditional foods internationally, officials from the Council for Economic Planning and Development said...
Protecting good people - translated and summarized from Thai Rath, January 11, 2008
The public is becoming highly critical of the sad fact that most government officials currently appear to be in ‘neutral gear’, and not eager to complete many of their allotted tasks - but rather to await the arrival in office of the next government. There is, however, one government official who is still devoted to his job.
Kasem Wattanatham is the person thus described, and he is currently wearing two hats: one as the Deputy Governor of Buriram Province and the other as the President of the Buriram Provincial Electoral Commission.
As the Deputy Governor, Kasem plays a significant role in the investigation of the illegal possession of public land in the province. It is a job that few relish, as it involves the interrogation of powerful individuals who are widely-feared.
As President of the Buriram Electoral Commission, Kasem was involved in the investigation of corrupt practices in the recent general election in which the National Electoral Commission awarded ‘red’ cards to three People Power Party parliamentary candidates standing for constituencies in the province.
A normal man would probably not be prepared to undertake such onerous tasks, for fear that the consequences of his actions might impact on his career path.
Kasem has said, however, that the realization that he is working for HRH the King has made him far more daring in his pursuit of the ‘right action’ than might normally be the case. He has also posed the question as to how ordinary people can survive with integrity if government administrators are too cowardly to tackle such criminality.
Kasem is devoted to his job and fears nothing. Indeed, he is that rare phenomenon today: a highly-respectable individual. It is only right that Thai people should support and protect such a good person.
Choir complaining about Singapore goes online - The Nation, January, 2008
Monitor lizards crawling around in abundance in Bangkok - Bangkok Post, January 30, 2008
For those who believe an old adage that a monitor lizard, or hia, brings bad luck, this might be bad news _ the hia population in the city has increased. Water monitors are still crawling around in abundance in Bangkok and in the provinces, according to Alongkorn Mahannop, a veterinarian at Chitralada Palace. Last year's survey showed there were about 200 water monitors in each district of Bangkok, he said...
Train tests Eurasian Landbridge - Railway Gazette, January 29, 2008
Thanks to Danny pointing this out.
Popular blogger arrested in Myanmar: opposition - AFP, January 29, 2008
A popular Myanmar blogger who belongs to Aung San Suu Kyi's pro-democracy party has been arrested in Yangon, apparently for violating the nation's tough Internet controls, a party spokesman said Wednesday...
Thailand finances Cambodian power grid to electrify Angkor Wat - EARTHtimes, January 29, 2008
The Export-Import Bank of Thailand and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) have agreed to provide 14 million dollars to finance the construction of transmission lines across the Thai-Cambodian border, EXIM Thailand announced Wednesday...
Could Thailand use a magazine like this? - Ajarn MC, January, 2008
...IHT has a good article on Tehelka, a weekly magazine in India that investigates corruption. Maybe Thailand could use a magazine like this...
