Thailand News Agency

The Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha confirmed that all government agencies and ministries will stop calling for copies of ID cards from September. Government Spokesman Lt Gen Sansern Kaewkamnerd said the premier urged all ministries to proceed with the policy to stop requiring the general public making contacts with government agencies to produce a photocopy of their ID card or house census paper. Government agencies were instructed to follow such policy by the end of August and to evaluate the new service which may need some refinements. The premier assured each government agency has to deploy an official responsible for the identity verification of people by inserting their ID card into a reader connected to a central database. This process will have to be done with high security measures to protect personal information. Information and Source Reporter : Tanakorn Sangiam Rewriter : tewit kemtong National News Bureau & Public Relations : http://thainews.prd.go.th

Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha called on low-income earners to participate in occupational workshops to land them necessary skills and job opportunities. The premier was briefed on an enhancement program by the Ministry of Education, which allows teachers to join the courses which promote the constant development of the teachers and reduces the costs. He commented that the project reflects national education reforms which the government is pushing forward, but such reforms would require changes in the entire system and some time to proceed on. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Labor promoted measures for low-income earners registered under the state welfare campaign, who can choose to enrol in 58 skills development courses at Job Box. He said the project is a part of the labor reformation which allows the low-income earners to show their capabilities and use their skills to earn more incomes. He also expressed his concerns over the safety at workplaces, and stressed the necessity fo...

 The Cabinet has approved changes to the tax measure aimed at boosting tourism and MICE, or meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibitions, in secondary provinces. After the Cabinet meeting, Mr Natporn Jatusripitak, Advisor to the Prime Minister’s Office Minister, revealed that adjustments have been made to the draft ministerial regulation concerning tax exemptions to promote tourism and MICE activities in secondary cities. For more inclusiveness, the Cabinet agreed to expand the coverage of the term “non-hotel establishments” to accommodations with no more than four rooms and a capacity of no more than 20 guests which serve travelers on a temporary basis and generate supplementary income for the operators. Moreover, the meeting gave a nod to the addition of more secondary tourism sites, as suggested by the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, to a list of places where visitors would be eligible for an income tax exemption on tour guide services. Visitors staying at non-hotel e...

Thailand's Rights and Liberties Protection Department (RLPD) has initiated a program to foster respect for human rights, the rule of law and the justice system in children and youths at schools. Multiple high schools have joined the RLPD program to promote awareness of the law and the justice system, enabling children to protect themselves from social threats, develop self-awareness and discipline, avoid drug abuse, prevent corruption and grow to be upstanding members of society. Under the program, the department has developed an educational card game for 14 participating schools, which teaches players about rights and freedoms, the rule of law and the justice system. Information and Source Reporter : Benjamin Rujopakarn Rewriter : hugh brammar National News Bureau & Public Relations : http://thainews.prd.go.th

The Prime Minister, Gen. Prayut Chan-o-cha, has urged Thai people to apply Her Majesty Queen Sirikit’s principles of developing both themselves and the country. On the occasion of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit's 86th birthday anniversary on August 12th, 2018, Gen. Prayut said Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, as "Mother of the Land", has demonstrated perseverance, commitment, and determination though her royal duties to ensure that the Thai people can make an honest living and Thailand remains stable and united. For instance, Her Majesty Queen Sirikit gives considerable importance to villages, communities, and natural resource development, as they are home to food production and agricultural activities for the whole nation. Her Majesty Queen Sirikit also emphasizes the importance of the mind, as it is the key to happiness, peace, and sustainable development. The Prime Minister emphasized that all Thais are fortunate to be born and live under the benevolence of Her Majesty Qu...

The chief of the Royal Thai Army has traveled to three southern border provinces to offer moral support to officers on duty in the region. Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Army, Gen. Chalermchai Sitthisart traveled to the southern border region on the long weekend and visited the Internal Security Operations Command Region 4 in Pattani to discuss the current situation in the area. Then, Gen. Chalermchai traveled to Sai Buri District to visit the operational base of the village security volunteers and witness the strategic exercises, before traveling to Narathiwat and Yala to meet with many teams of local volunteers. The army chief urged security officers in the area to constantly review practices and strategies with volunteers, in order to ensure all are able to perform their duties as trained officers and to achieve full effectiveness in all operations when needed. Gen. Chalermchai said that he was very satisfied with his weekend visit to the southern border region where h...

A vice president of the National Legislative Assembly has denied claims that the legislature has been trying to help members of the current government in the next election. Mr. Peerasak Porjit, the Second Vice President of the NLA, went with a number of members of the legislature on Monday to meet over 1,000 farmers, who represent growers from 67 provinces, to collect opinions for the drafting of the Rice Act. The NLA said that the new law is not intended to limit the rights of farmers and merchants but to ensure standard practices and a correct understanding among all. According to the draft law, rice buyers will have to register themselves and sellers will have to produce receipts while a system will be set up to collect information for a rice database. The NLA expects the new law to be ready for submission to the main assembly by August 20 before it goes through a normal process. When asked if the new law might appear to be an attempt to help garner support for the current...

Bangkok officials have inspected Khlong Jikkanda Water Pumping Station and water jets installed along Khlong Chao Khun Singh as part of preparations to prevent flooding in the capital. Deputy Bangkok Governor Chakkaphan Piew-ngam led the inspection, involving agents from the Bureau of Sewage and Drainage, of the water control tower being constructed at Khlong Jikkanda Water Pumping Station, which is situated on Ramkhamhaeng road. The inspection was part of the “Safe Metropolis” strategy in Bangkok, which seeks to ensure the city avoids natural crises through proper management and public involvement. The tower is currently 82 percent complete. The deputy governor also inspected water jets installed in Khlong Chao Khun Singh, a waterway across from Bodindecha (Sing Singhaseni) School. The jets are to increase the efficiency of drainage if flooding occurs due to heavy rains. The canal has been dredged and equipped with machinery to allow for quicker drainage of water. Information an...

Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha advised the agricultural sector to make adjustments in order to sustainably solve the low prices of farm products. Government Spokesman Lt Gen Sansern Kaewkamnerd said the premier adressed the issue of the low prices of farm goods, especially rice, are currently having better prices due to increased demands in the world markets following natural disasters. He said that the excessive production of rice will result in oversupplying, which will bring down the pricing according to the supply demand cycle, while the key issues the agricultural sector is facing are high manufacturing costs and debt issues, both are long-lasting problems which the government has been trying to solve but will require cooperation from all sides. He pointed out the weakness of the individual farming as the farmers will have to bear high manufacturing costs and will have worse negotiation power and marketing opportunities. He has recommended farmers to gather as cooperatives...

The Prime Minister led members of his Cabinet in giving alms to mark the birthday anniversary of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit of the Ninth Reign yesterday, with important individuals and members of the public continuing to sign their well wishes. The Grand Palace has continued to see a stream of dignitaries and members of the public signing well-wishing books set up to celebrate the birthday anniversary of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit of the Ninth Reign with all writing messages of loyalty, and appreciation of her royal works. At Sanam Luang yesterday (August 12), Prime Minister Gen Prayut Chan-ocha chaired an alms giving ceremony devoted to the occasion. The ceremony was attended by Privy Councilors, members of the National Legislative Assembly, the President of the Supreme Court, Cabinet members and their spouses, Bureau of the Royal Household officials, the Bangkok Governor and over 3,000 representatives of the private sector. In the evening, the PM chaired the lighting of ceremonia...

All three elements of the Thai armed forces yesterday performed 21 gun salutes marking the birthday anniversary of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit of the Ninth Reign. At noon on August 12th, the Royal Thai Army, Royal Thai Navy and Royal Thai Air Force each performed a 21 gun salute. The navy performed its salute at its Bangkok headquarters at Wichaiprasit Fort in the Bangkok Yai district of Bangkok. The air force performed its salute at the Navaminda Kasatriyadhiraj Royal Air Force Academy in Sai Mai district of Bangkok, and the army’s 1st Field Artillery Battalion King’s Guard performed the salute at Sanam Luang. A “salute” is a military tradition observed worldwide and is used to honor a flag or individual. The number of shots involved in the salute is determined by the level of honor to be expressed. Thailand performed its first gun salute during the reign of King Narai the Great. Modern salutes are performed with no fewer than four guns with barrels measuring no less than 120 mi...

A prayer service is to be staged this Friday August 17, 2018 at Dusit Palace in tribute to His Majesty the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej, Her Majesty Queen Sirikit of the Ninth Reign on the occasion of her birthday anniversary, and His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn. His Majesty the King has graciously entrusted the Supreme Patriarch with leading 195 monks in performing the prayer while calling for the important Buddhist relic Phra Buddha Norasih to be the central Buddhist image. The prayer ceremony is a continuation of the “Dhamma Rachinee” practice initiated by Her Majesty Queen Sirikit of the Ninth Reign. Participants in the ceremony will receive royally bestowed prayer offerings that they will be able to take home to commemorate the occasion. The prayer book for the event can be downloaded at www.prd.go.th and the event will be broadcast via Radio Thailand, NBT, Thai TV Global Network (TGN) and NBT World. Parking will be provided at Suan Dusit Zoo and the Royal Turf Club f...

The Board of Investment of Thailand (BOI) reported that China's tech firm Huawei plans to spend an additional 700 million baht on a cloud service to enhance Thailand's internet network and digital infrastructure. The BOI Deputy Secretary-General, Narit Therdsteerasukdi, said on Tuesday (Aug 14th) that the subcommittee for considering projects has approved an investment promotion for Huawei Technologies (Thailand) Co., Ltd. to operate the cloud service with a total budget of 700 million baht. The enterprises are located in Bangkok and Amata Data Center Park in Chonburi province. The service will be provided to Thai government agencies, Thai and foreign private sectors, and the general public. Huawei Cloud Service Project will be one of the digital infrastructures of Thailand and a tool to enhance the efficiency of public and private sectors. It also allows people to access government electronic services more conveniently. Information and Source Reporter : supawadee wang...

The overall performance of commercial banks has expanded by 5.4 percent during this year's second quarter, according to the Bank of Thailand (BOT). The BOT's Senior Director for Financial Institutions Strategy Department Daranee Saeju revealed the combined operational outcome of the commercial banks in Thailand in the second quarter has expanded to 5.4 percent, compared to 4.7 percent during the same period last year, particularly due to the expansion of loan credits for businesses and SMEs. The personal loan credit for consumption has expanded by eight percent from the continuous growth of automobile loans, while the overall crowdfunding from commercial bank loans and bonds has expanded to 5.6 percent, compared to 5.1 during the corresponding period last year. These data indicate that the quality of credits from commercial banks has been stable and compatible with the economic recovery. The overall Non-Performing Loans (NPL) has accounted to 2.9 percent, with the NPL d...

The Department of Foreign Trade (DFT) has opened workshops to keep tapioca farmers and buyers connected with one another and promote marketing opportunities. DFT Director-General Adul Chotinisakorn said the agency has held the workshops on the connection of tapioca buyers and farmers, allowing them to discuss ways to develop the tapioca industry as well as improve the quality of products to meet demands in the domestic and export markets. The DFT has already held three workshops, including one in Nakhon Ratchasima, Prachin Buri, and Ubon Ratchathani each. Thailand was the world's top tapioca exporter in 2017, with 11 million tons of products worth 27 billion US dollars exported. Information and Source Reporter : Tanakorn Sangiam Rewriter : tewit kemtong National News Bureau & Public Relations : http://thainews.prd.go.th

President of Thailand Post Company Limited, Smorn Terdthumpiboon, said that her agency has incorporated technology and innovations throughout the postal system. Thailand Post has opened parcel drop centers, with its partners in shopping malls and gas stations, to increase access to postal services. It also provides online services via its mobile application to support e-commerce for SMEs and OTOP communities. In addition, Thailand Post has helped to expand distribution channels for agriculturalists. Most recently, it has worked with the Bank for Agriculture and Agricultural Cooperatives to ship fresh and processed agricultural products, reducing farmers’ reliance on intermediaries who cut into profit margins. The state postal service is also working with the Cooperative Promotion Department to conduct a survey of agricultural products nationwide, in order to create a system suitable for shipping agricultural products in cold storage to preserve freshness. The results of the surve...

Tesco Lotus is taking part in the Thai government’s national welfare program by providing coupons worth up to 1,800 baht to welfare cardholders. The coupons are redeemable until September 15th this year. Director of Operations at Tesco Lotus, Salila Sihapan, revealed that the hypermarket chain will provide the coupons to state welfare cardholders who are also members of Tesco’s Clubcard program. She said the program is the company’s way of supporting the government’s policy of reducing the cost of living for low-income citizens by allowing them to purchase household necessities at a discount. Buyers will be able to use the coupons alongside cash or credit. Starting August 14th, welfare cardholders will be able to register for the coupon, which can be redeemed at over 200 major Tesco Lotus branches across the country until September 15th. Existing Clubcard members can pick up a coupon for immediate use. Those who are not yet members of the Clubcard can apply at any Tesco Lotus cus...

Thailand's National Science Technology and Innovation Policy Office (STI) has launched the Talent Mobility (TM) Academy project to promote innovation in Thailand. Permsuk Sutchaphiwat, the Chief Inspector-General of the Ministry of Science and Technology, said the project is a joint effort between the STI, Rajamangala University of Technology Thanyaburi and its network. The project was developed with the aim of increasing the number of trained professionals in the industrial sector and to encourage manufacturers to invest in research and development. Permsuk claimed this would drive Thailand towards becoming an innovation-based economy. Director for Innovative Platform for Workforce Development of the STI, Asst Prof Dr. Poolsak Koseeyaporn, said there is an urgent need to produce skilled professionals in Thailand in order to increase the capability of the industrial sector. Industrial experts from the STI and the university will pass on their knowledge to owners of small an...

Thailand’s investment drive will focus on three aspects of the country’s agenda – national competitiveness, a reduction in income disparity, and sustainability, says Deputy Prime Minister Somkid Jatusripitak. Speaking after the annual meeting of Thailand's Board of Investment (BOI), with the heads of the 14 overseas offices, the Deputy Prime Minister said that investments are a significant part of the national agenda. “In recent years, our investment promotion activities tended to attract investment in targeted types of business activities,” Dr. Somkid said. “We must not forget that investments are crucial to support a national transformation. “From now on, we have to make sure that investment promotion activities can also effectively address the three major national issues - increasing national competitiveness, reducing income and social disparity, and promoting sustainability.” He cited the development of the bioeconomy as an example. In promoting investment in the bioeco...

Prime Minister Gen Prayut Chan-o-cha has presided over the opening ceremony of the 7th Silapacheep Prateep Thai OTOP which is being held to promote Thai goods. The 7th Silapacheep Prateep Thai OTOP was also organized to honor Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, the queen consort of His Majesty the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej, for her support in helping local residents make a living through the Queen’s Silapacheep Foundation. Gen Prayut said during the opening ceremony that the government has placed particular emphasis on promoting the grassroots economy, social equality and income distribution. He added that many OTOP products have also been sold on Thai Airways flights as a way to increase their popularity among foreigners. The premier and his retinue later toured the event where he spoke to OTOP producers and admired their goods. High ranking officials and foreign ambassadors were also among those visiting the 7th Silapacheep Prateep Thai OTOP at Impact Arena Muang Thong Thani. The e...

A large number of people flocked to worship the Jao Mae Nang Non shrine at the Tham Luang - Khun Nam Nang Non forest park in Chiang Rai province during the three-day holiday. The forest park welcomed more than 4,000 visitors between August 11th and 13th, 2018, as the holiday marks Her Majesty Queen Sirikit's 68th birthday anniversary and Mother's Day on August 12th, 2018. The Tham Luang cave, which is located in this forest park is still closed to all visitors, following the succesful rescue of 12 young footballers and their coach who were trapped in the cave complex for more than two weeks since June 23rd, 2018. However, people can still worship the Jao Mae Nang Non shrine in front of the cave. The Director of the Conservation Area 15 Management Office, Kamolchai Kotcha, said the area in front of the cave needs major restoration, as it has been damaged from the rescue operation. He said the authorities are using heavy machines to restore the area's conditions and wat...

The government has opened a new outlet as part of its Pracharat initiative in eastern Trat Province to allow people upcountry the opportunity to enjoy economically-priced and quality products. The new Pracharat shop is located on Tha Rua Jaang Road in Muang Trat District and offers a variety of reasonably-priced consumer products, which come with a government guarantee of quality to ensure consumer satisfaction. The new shop accepts the government-issued welfare cards for eligible holders, who may choose to visit and shop for their preferred items from 7.30 a.m. to 9 a.m. daily. ?The latest Pracharat shop in Trat is funded by the government’s economy strengthening project of the Pracharat initiative and a government project to boost the potential of villages and communities. The government hopes that its continued efforts and this new shop will help lower people’s cost of living and enable many to save on essential purchases. Information and Source Reporter : Kitti Cheevasit...

Many Thai and foreign visitors to Prachuap Khiri Khan province have shopped for Pa La-ou durian during a festival in Hua Hin, causing a shortage of supply from the local farmers. Pa La-ou Durian Festival held at Hua Hin Market Village in Prachuap Khiri Khan has welcomed many Thai and foreign tourists over the long Mother's Day weekend. Many have come to select and purchase Pa La-ou durian, a Geographical Indication (GI) product from Prachuap Khiri Khan which can only be produced by the local farms. This genus of durian is known for its delicate flesh and small seeds. Seven sales booths at the festival which is held until 19 August sell the local durian directly for 250 baht per kilogram. The fruit has raised high demands from customers, causing a shortage on the part of the farmers. Genuine Pa La-ou durian will have a certifying sticker to prevent the mix with any other genus. Information and Source Reporter : Tanakorn Sangiam Rewriter : tewit kemtong National News Bur...

Nakhon Sri Thammarat province is pushing forward the development of its tourism, given positive results in terms of visitors and revenues. Nakhon Sri Thammarat Provincial Governor Chamroen Tipayapongtada said all sectors in the southern province, including government agencies, private firms, local administrations, and communities, are working on the promotion of community based tourism by promoting unique local identities which can generate more income to the province and communities. Nakhon Sri Thammarat has seen the biggest tourism growth among other 'secondary city' provinces in the national tourism promotion campaign. The province last year welcomed some 3 million visitors, with the number increasing by 10 percent this year. Revenue from tourism this year so far has already reached 3 billion baht, with more 3-4 stars hotel opened and local shops improving their products and services to better attract customers. The province is now working on the decoding of 4DNA to fi...

The Ministry of the Interior has organized a fair featuring OTOP products as well as handicrafts from the royal projects of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit of the Ninth Reign. The event is expected to generate over 900 million baht in revenue for local businesses. The fair commemorates Her Majesty the Queen’s initiatives to create local jobs and revenue, which led to the establishment of the Foundation for the Promotion of Supplementary Occupations and Related Techniques (SUPPORT). The fair aims to exhibit and sell SUPPORT handicrafts and OTOP products to distribute wealth among local economies, reduce income inequality, and stimulate the country's overall economy. The fair features over 2,000 booths from across the country showcasing unique OTOP products and handicrafts from their respective provinces. Popular items include personal accessories, silk-based products, and food. Apichart Todilokwet, Director-General of the Ministry of the Interior’s Community Development Department, ...

Growing demand for Thai rice abroad has prompted an export estimate of 11 million tons this year with the Ministry of Commerce reporting 6.7 million tons already exported as of August 8. Department of Foreign Trade (DFT) Director-General Adul Chotinisakorn reported that Thai rice sales are up in almost all foreign markets this year, especially in Indonesia where sales have increased 679 percent, Malaysia where sales are up 53 percent and the Philippines, where sales are up 25 percent. From the start of the year to August 8, Thailand has exported 6.7 million tons of rice, 1.82 percent more compared to the same period last year and worth 3.425 billion USD, 9.85 percent up on-year. The upward trajectory of demand is predicted to continue through the latter half of the year. A delegation from China formed under a farm goods trade deal with Thailand is scheduled to travel to the Kingdom at the end of this month to negotiate the purchase of a second batch of 1 million tons of rice. A six...

The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) will organize a workshop to study lessons learned from the Tham Luang cave rescue operation. The DDPM Director-General, Chayapol Thitisak, said on Tuesday (Aug 14th) that the government and the National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO) had assigned his department to hold the workshop to study lessons learned from the Tham Luang cave rescue operation at Tham Luang - Khun Nam Nang Non Forest Park in Chiang Rai province. During the workshop, participants will discuss topics, such as rescue operation management, mapping the cave's geometry, excavation, and water pumping methods. The workshop will be held on August 15th and 16th, 2018, at S.D. Avenue Hotel, Bangkok, to determine the national disaster management guidelines. The Tham Luang cave is still closed to all visitors, following the successful rescue of 12 young footballers and their coach who were trapped in the cave complex for more than two weeks since June 2...

The local authorities on Thailand's Ko Kham Yai island in Chon Buri province have offered a cash reward, worth 20,000 baht, for information on illegal dumping. The island's waste problem has started adversely to affect its tourism. On Tuesday, public health officials in the municipality of Tambon Ko Sichang inspected the Sapparot Bay on Ko Kham Yai after they were told that more than 30 bags of waste had been dumped at the bay on 12 August. The waste bags were later found burnt. A list of products with the name of a shipping company were found near the burnt waste. Mayor of the Tambon Ko Sichang municipality, Damrong Phetra, said it was the second time this month that waste was dumped illegally at the bay. The first time was when more than 100 waste bags with overseas labels were found. The waste dumped at the same place this time also included products from foreign countries, said the mayor. Those who give information on illegal dumping can send evidence to the municipal...

A deputy director-general of the Public Relations Department (PRD) observed the operations at Khao Pok Yo radio station in Yala province. Deputy PRD Director-General Charoon Chaisorn traveled to the southern province to visit the radio station of Radio Thailand and NBT at Khao Pok Yo mountain in Bannang Sata district, located 1,096 meters above the sea level. He met with the PRD staff and to follow up on the broadcasting operations of Radio Thailand and NBT Yala, as well as delivering operational guidelines to enhance the operations of the PRD's media in the southern border provinces. The deputy PRD chief traveled to the PRD District 6 office at Ban Lang dam in Bannang Sata district to join a mobile executive meeting. Information and Source Reporter : Tanakorn Sangiam Rewriter : tewit kemtong National News Bureau & Public Relations : http://thainews.prd.go.th

The Sheikhul Islam of Thailand has arrived in Saudi Arabia to oversee facilitation and assistance for Thai pilgrims to the Hajj in Medina and Mecca. Sheikhul Islam of Thailand Aziz Phitakkumpon arrived in Medina, Saudia Arabia, along with Thai officials on Hajj affairs, on a mission to oversee facilitation and assistance for Thai pilgrims to the Hajj in both Medina and Mecca. The Sheikhul Islam of Thailand traveled from the airport to Medina city, facilitated by Saudi Arabian officials. He has observed the religious rites at Masjid al-Nabawi, and visited the tomb of prophet Muhammad. He expressed his moral support to all Thai pilgrims and advised them to take care of their health, and learn about the Hajj, in order to observe the holy rights in keeping with the Islamic principles. Information and Source Reporter : Tanakorn Sangiam Rewriter : tewit kemtong National News Bureau & Public Relations : http://thainews.prd.go.th

The National Broadcasting Services of Thailand (NBT) in Trang province has held a youth program to discourage smoking. NBT Trang Director, Wassana Winothai, said her office has collaborated with the Action and Smoking Health Foundation of Thailand and the Thai Health Promotion Foundation to hold a youth volunteer program for seven high schools. Wassana said NBT Trang recognizes the importance and necessity of addressing the issue of smoking and therefore wishes to encourage youths to participate in the effort to reduce smoking. The volunteer program is meant to educate students on the 2017 Tobacco Products Control Act, the dangers of e-cigarettes, traditional cigarettes and the marketing tactics of tobacco companies geared towards the younger demographic. Talks were give by Ponthip Sun-Eu, a nurse from Trang Hospital, and Natanapa Tinakorn, former head of the Narathiwat Public Relations Office. Information and Source Reporter : Benjamin Rujopakarn Rewriter : hugh brammar Natio...

The Foundation for Women and anti-smoking organizations in Thailand have jointly launched a campaign urging smokers to stop smoking for the sake of their families. The Foundation for Women as well as the Thai Health Promotion Foundation and a network of anti-smoking organizations announced today during a joint conference in Sonkhla province, the launch of the campaign and the newly established network of anti-smoking housewives. The campaign was established to mark the birthday celebration of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, the queen consort of His Majesty the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej, and to gain support from the government to improve the lives of women in Thailand and their families. These organizations see the need for action to be taken to help the growing numbers of women and children suffering from second-hand smoke inhalation at homes in Thailand. Smokers are urged to stop smoking to improve their own health and that of the people around them especially their family members...

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) has held a seminar for Thai consular officials worldwide to streamline consular services for Thai and foreign nationals. MFA Deputy Permanent Secretary Thani Thongphakdi presented a policy to the consular officers during the seminar where he cited the need to adopt a person-based approach to make their services more efficient for both Thai and foreign nationals. More than 37 million foreigners visit Thailand each year, while 7 million Thais travel overseas each year. The Deputy Permanent Secretary wants the consular officers to be more proactive in their role and adaptable to change now that the country is moving towards a digital era. The Department of Consular Affairs has also made consular services more convenient for the public. People are now required to use only their identification cards when using any consular service. Those planning to travel overseas can also apply for an e-Visa online and seek assistance from a Thai embassy in case...

Flash floods have been reported in several areas of Ranong province, prompting local authorities to be on standby to provide assistance to those in need. A mudslide near the Pun Ya Ban waterfall has temporarily closed Phet Kasem Road. Local authorities are removing debris and large rocks that are blocking the road. More rain could potentially worsen the situation. Several communities and roads in Ranong Municipality remain inundated as heavy rains make it difficult to drain flood waters away. Survival items have already been distributed among those affected. Ranong Governor Jatupoj Piyamputara has instructed local authorities to closely monitor the situation and advised people to stay updated on the weather forecast. In Phetchaburi province, 20 navy boats have been deployed to push floodwaters into the sea to prevent inundation of residential areas. Information and Source Reporter : Nuppol Suvansombut Rewriter : Thammarat Thadaphrom National News Bureau & Public Relati...

A boatman was injured in a blaze that engulfed a speedboat in Phang Nga province yesterday. Head of the Phang Nga Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Office, Sayan Kijmano received a call at 10:30am on August 13 reporting a tourist speedboat completely engulfed in flames in the area of Ao Mhan Beach in Takua Tung district of Phang Nga. The office head rushed to the scene with Khlong Kian Sub-District Chief Uthit Majchaves and Assistant Head of Phang Nga Bay National Park Pramote Kaeonam. The officials found a dual engine fiber speedboat named BBC Lion 9 ablaze off shore. The fire resulted in one person on board being injured while all the passengers were already off the boat. The boat’s captain Wanchat Un-kaow explained that the vessel had been traveling from Laem Sai Dock in Phuket with 20 tourists from the Middle East. The boat had parked off Ao Mhan Beach to allow its passengers to swim in the ocean. The captain left his engineer to watch the boat so he could have b...

Thai students have been awarded three gold and two silver medals at China’s Robot Challenge 2018, returning home to a hero’s welcome. Teachers, parents and fellow students staged a welcome back ceremony at Suvarnabhumi Airport for Thai students dispatched by the Office of the Basic Education Commission (OBEC) to take part in Robot Challenge 2018 in Beijing, China. The team won medals in 10 categories and showcased Thailand’s skills in science and technology. OBEC Director for Special Programs Thanyanan Kaeokerd explained that this year was Thailand’s first opportunity to attend the Robot Challenge and that all participants were well prepared before being sent to compete, so that they would be prime examples of Thailand’s international science and technology standards. Lalita Deelert from Potisarnpittayakorn School Bangkok remarked that the competition provided her with two opportunities; the first was to practice her Mandarin communication skills while the second was to engage in...

The Department of Labor Protection and Welfare has approved a loan of 10 million baht from the Labor Fund to assist people with informal debt at Lad Krabang Industrial Estate in Bangkok. The Director-General of the Department of Labor Protection and Welfare, Ananchai Uthaipattanacheep, said on Monday (Aug 13th) that the loan program will help ease the financial burden of 236 people who are members of Lad Krabang Industrial Estate's savings cooperative. Mr. Ananchai said the loan program will benefit workers who earn less than 35,000 baht a month to pay off their informal loans and credit card bills, allowing them to have a better quality of life in accordance with His Majesty the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej's teachings. Interested savings cooperatives can ask for more information about this loan program from all provincial labour protection and welfare offices, or call 0 2245 6774 or 0 2246 0383. Information and Source Reporter : supawadee wangsri Rewriter : Praphorn...

Rajjaprabha dam will discharge more water from the reservoir to make room for more rainwater throughout rainy season, with the discharging volume closely monitored to minimize the adverse effects to villagers downstream. Rajjaprabha dam director Chaiwat Manapanwong revealed the dam will discharge water from its reservoir after the discharge had previously been suspended due to high water levels in nearby areas. The discharge will now be continued as the water level in Khlong Sok canal has returned to normal, while the water volume held in the reservoir is reaching the upper control range as the reservoir continues to receive water at the rate mote than 60 million cubic meter daily. The discharge of water from the reservoir will assure that it will have enough capacity to hold more water during the next two months of rainy season. The volume of water discharged will be closely controlled to minimized the effect to residents downstream. The dam's regular structural integrity ha...

Many people have made use of the long holiday to volunteer for public service activities in the spirit of Mother’s Day. People have traveled to a volunteer project of the royal initiative at the Bureau of the Royal Household headquarters at Sanam Suea Pa. The project has been admitting volunteers since July 12th this year and has received over 130,000 applications, bringing the total number of volunteers nationwide to 4.3 million. Mon Tansang and his family said they were glad to have participated in the program and contribute to society. People of all ages can apply with their national ID cards. Children under seven, who have yet to apply for a card, can apply with their birth certificate or house registration. The Sanam Suea Pa location will take applications from 8:00am to 4:00pm at Building 606 of the Bureau of the Royal Household. For more information, contact the hotlines 1510 or 1511 from 8:00am to 4:00pm. Information and Source Reporter : Benjamin Rujopakarn Rewriter ...

Many families living in Bangkok visited Dusit Zoo over the weekend, on the occasion of National Mother’s Day. Zoo authorities say that the zoo has been bustling with visitors since August 11th for the Mother’s Day weekend. Many have also come to visit the zoo for the last time before it closes its doors permanently on August 31st. Popular attractions included white tigers, crocodiles, hippopotamuses and giraffes. Traffic in front of the zoo was particularly congested, but officials were able to keep vehicles moving. Jamnongjit Chaisanit, one of the visitors, said she was glad to have brought her family to the zoo during the long weekend and was impressed by the various animals she saw. She added that it was unfortunate that the zoo is closing down on this city site. Her daughter, Kamonwan Chaisanit, said she had enjoyed the giraffes most of all. For Mother’s Day, she said she conveyed her love to her mother and promised to be a good citizen for society. Information and Source Re...

The National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) is organizing an auction for concessions in the government's Net Pracharat program. NBTC Secretary-General Takorn Tantasith has revealed that the commission will use electronic bidding to select companies for the eight concessions in Zone C of the Net Pracharat program. The concessions are worth a combined 19.6 billion baht. He said that eligible bidders must either hold a third-tier networking telecommunications license or a first-tier license for the operators who do not have their own network. The bidders must also provide evidence that they have earnt a profit from their telecommunications business over the past year, as a way of ensuring the viability of their operations. Bidders that have operated in the sector for over three years must provide income statements indicating they have earnt an average revenue of over 10 percent of the value of their desired concession. Those awarded the concessions will be...

Thai students have honored the Kingdom, in collecting several medals in the ‘ROBOT CHALLENGE 2018’ event in Beijing China. The Office of the Basic Education Commission (OBAC) invited students from eight schools to participate in the event, which began on August 9th and concluded today (August 13th). The annual international competition draws attention from young robotics enthusiasts all over the world, many of whom compete in the creative and inventive contest. The participants have to use their knowledge of science and technology to solve a set of tough puzzles. Entering 10 categories, the Thai students were able to secure first place in four categories, along with first runner up in one category, second runner up in three categories and third runner up in another category. This competition requires participants to program and customize their robots or drones to complete a specific set of tasks such as collecting a puck, following a line, overcoming obstacles in the terrain, o...

Thailand's Industry Ministry and its supporting agencies have prepared rehabilitation measures for flood-affected manufacturing plants, including maintenance services and fee waivers. According to Permanent Secretary of the Industry Ministry, Pasu Loharjun, the ministry and its associates will offer maintenance services to businesses suffering from the recent flooding. These services include cleaning of machinery and electrical safety checkups. Furthermore, a team of food safety experts will be formed to give advice to factories about maintaining production standards. Pasu said flood afflicted business operators would be exempted from machinery registration fees, and a quality control inspection fee among others. The permanent secretary also mentioned the possibility of postponing payments on financial loans and the provision of additional loan services to SME Bank customers. He elaborated that eligible debtors can pause their payments for up to six months or request an emerg...

Thais from all walks of life have attended events celebrating the 86th birthday anniversary of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit of the Ninth Reign. Residents of Wiang sub-district of the capital district of Phayao province gave alms to 87 monks at Wat Si Khom Kham, marking the auspicious occasion of Her Majesty’s birthday. In Uthai Thani province, residents gathered to give offerings to monks in the early hours of August 12th. Donning blue, the color of Her Majesty’s birthday, a number of residents also made merit in dedication to Her Majesty the Queen by releasing fish into the Sakae Krang river basin. Similarly in Chaiyaphum Province, residents took part in an almsgiving ceremony for 87 monks and novices. The provincial administrative organization also set up a booth for people to write well-wishes to Her Majesty. The office later held an event recognizing exemplary mothers. Meanwhile, the Chiang Rai Red Cross Chapter and Chiangraiprachanukroh have jointly organized a blood drive an...

The final day of the Thailand Research Expo 2018 saw a parade of researchers, academics and members of the public viewing the various research projects on display, especially a piece of technology designed to alert caretakers when those under their care fall out of bed. The technology has been dubbed “Never Ever Fall” and is the work of Ph.D. students at King Mongkut's University of Technology, Thonburi. The innovation is a bed equipped with censors that instantly alert caretakers when patients are not detected. When patients are in bed a green signal is displayed while a yellow signal will appear if it seems the patient is about to fall out of bed. A red signal is set off if the patient is completely absent from the bed. The technology is expected to be available for practical use by the end of this year. Another interesting invention was a three dimensional microscope developed by Suranaree University of Technology. The high speed infrared microscope is being developed for us...

The National Research Council of Thailand (NRCT), and the Department of National Parks, Wildlife, and Plant Conservations (DNP), have signed an agreement to upgrade the country's research sector towards the Thailand 4.0 model. The NRCT has today signed an agreement with the DNP on the utilization of inventions and innovations to support the making of 3D maps for natural resources. The signing ceremony was presided over by the Minister attached to the Prime Minister's Office, Kobsak Pootrakool. In this ceremony, the PMO Minister delivered a speech on challenges for research and innovations as a driving power for Thailand, where he stressed the importance of innovations and technology for the country which is being in a transforming stage. He said it is now the golden opportunities for researchers to come up with new inventions and innovations which will help push forward the country towards stability, prosperity, and sustainability. The government has been given high prior...