#ศาสตร์เกษตรดินปุ๋ย : ขอบคุณแหล่งข้อมูล : หนังสือพิมพ์ The Nation.

KBTG launches Eatable – a ‘complete’ food-ordering app

Jun 29. 2020KBTG chairman Ruangroj Poonpol, centre, and KBTG’s senior principal visionary architect Dr Charoenchai Boworntummarat, right, along with KBTG’s advanced partnership engineer Dr Surasak Chantasirichot launch the ‘Eatable’ food-ordering platform.

By THE NATION

Kasikorn Business-Technology Group (KBTG) on Monday (June 29) launched Eatable, a food-ordering app that caters to the new normal by providing contactless services for customers who want to either dine at restaurants, order take outs or have their food delivered at home.

While restaurateurs do not need to download the application or pay fees and can manage their back-office system online on a real-time basis, diners can browse menus, order food, and make contactless payment. The platform will be fully rolled out by October.

Ruangroj Poonpol, KBTG chairman, said restaurants are doing their best to adapt to the new normal and according to KResearch, market turnover for restaurants this year is likely to stand at around Bt380 billion, down almost 10 per cent compared to last year because customers are preferring to eat at home due to the Covid-19 outbreak.

Hence, in line with this trend, KBTG has designed and developed “Eatable” – a complete online food ordering service for restaurants and consumers. For instance, those who wish to dine at restaurants can order food by scanning the QR code at their table or by opening a link created by the Eatable platform. This way, diners will not have to wait for the server to take their order.

Customers wanting to pick up their food can place their order via the platform and set a time for pick up. This way, they will not have to wait at the restaurant.

Customers who want their food delivered can place their orders using an online menu and can choose the cheapest delivery option.

Restauranteurs, meanwhile, can use the platform to launch promotions, as well as create or change information and prices. The platform also has a feature that helps restaurants keep track of orders and update customers in real time.

In September, Eatable will be linked to an online payment service, which allows its customers to place orders and make payments through a single channel.

KBTG will also launch “Kai Tai Dian Cai” food ordering programme that caters to Chinese tourists at the end of the year. This app can be used via WeChat.

#ศาสตร์เกษตรดินปุ๋ย : ขอบคุณแหล่งข้อมูล : หนังสือพิมพ์ The Nation.

AirAsia offers ‘Unlimited Pass’

Jun 29. 2020

By THE NATION

In a move to support domestic tourism, AirAsia has introduced its “Unlimited Pass”, offering a limited number of tickets for Bt2,999 for travel on its domestic routes, the airline said.

Tickets are on sale from today until July 5 for travel anytime from July 20 to December 17, 2020.

Under this offer, guests can fly to 23 top domestic destinations, including Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Phuket, Krabi, Hat Yai, Nan, Ubon Ratchathani, Udon Thani, Khon Kaen.

“The Covid-19 situation has significantly impacted the economy and the tourism sector, especially in terms of foreign tourist spending in the country, which has yet to return to normal,” AirAsia Thailand chief executive Santisuk Klongchaiya said.

“To support both the public and private sectors, AirAsia has launched the Unlimited Pass for the first time in Thailand to help stimulate domestic air travel and provide a welcome boost for the economy. AirAsia is looking to offer the best convenience and value to our guests as well as reassure them that their health and safety is our top priority,” Santisuk said.

“We also wish to reassure our passengers that we have stepped up all precautionary measures to do with safety and hygiene, on the ground and in the air, to ensure our guests arrive safely and healthy at their destinations,” he added.

#ศาสตร์เกษตรดินปุ๋ย : ขอบคุณแหล่งข้อมูล : หนังสือพิมพ์ The Nation.

Empire Tower granted MEA’s ‘Energy Saving Building’ award

Jun 26. 2020

By THE NATION

Metropolitan Electricity Authority (MEA) has granted an “Energy Saving Building” badge to Empire Tower as part of its energy saving campaign.

On Thursday (June 25), MEA deputy director-general Santi Namsinwichetchai presided over the ceremony to award the Energy Saving Building badge to Jatuphong Jaturawong, general manager of Empire Tower, at its Sathorn Room.

Located in Bangkok’s Sathorn district on the corner of South Sathorn and Narathiwat roads, Empire Tower won the MEA Energy Saving Building 2019 award for office buildings.

“MEA has organised the MEA Energy Saving Building campaign every year since 2012 to reward buildings in MEA’s jurisdiction [Bangkok, Nonthaburi and Samut Prakan] for demonstrating effective usage and conservation of energy,” said Santi. “The winner of each category can display the badge on their building as proof of their efforts and to assure customers of efficient energy management within the facilities.”

“Empire Tower passes the MEA Index standards in terms of energy usage, lighting quality and air quality,” he added.

Since the start of the campaign, 366 buildings have entered the competition and 203 have met MEA Index standards.

“The campaign has helped reduce energy usage by 39.46 million units or Bt154 million, as well as reducing emissions of carbon dioxide by over 23,000 tonnes,” he added.

Next year MEA is planning to add another tier of awards to the campaign, called MEA Energy Saving Building Plus, in which winners must demonstrate both efficient energy usage and efforts to reduce PM2.5 dust particles within the building.

More information is available at www.meaenergysavingbuilding.net and Facebook: MEAaward.

#ศาสตร์เกษตรดินปุ๋ย : ขอบคุณแหล่งข้อมูล : หนังสือพิมพ์ The Nation.

Siriraj Hospital trials 5G driverless vehicle for new medical era

Jun 25. 2020Takorn Tantasith, third left, secretary-general of the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission, together with Abel Deng, fourth left, CEO of Huawei Technologies (Thailand), hand over a 5G unmanned vehicle to Siriraj Hospital under the “Unmanned Vehicle Pilot Project Driving Thai Healthcare to 5G Era” project. Receiving the donation on behalf of the hospital are Prof Dr Prasit Watanapa, second left, Dean of Faculty of Medicine, and Assoc Prof Visit Vamvanij, first left, hospital director of Siriraj Hospital.

By THE NATION

The National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) today (June 25) announced it had joined with Siriraj Hospital and Huawei Technologies (Thailand) to pioneer the use of 5G-powered unmanned vehicles in Thai healthcare.

NBTC secretary-general Takorn Tantasith said the self-driving vehicle takes advantage of Huawei’s 5G technology to offer contactless delivery of medical supplies.

The “Unmanned Vehicle Pilot Project Driving Thai Healthcare to the 5G Era” will enable the NBTC to evaluate the benefits and efficiency of the vehicle before putting it to different uses in other hospitals across Thailand.

The pilot project is designed to push the Thai medical system into the 5G era by applying world-class technology and innovation to drive medical services and the healthcare industry.

Such technology can replace manpower in logistics since it operates in complex environments within Siriraj Hospital. The autonomous car offers safe, convenient and cost-effective solutions while reducing the workload of healthcare workers and improving patient safety. 5G technology will be progressively applied in the national health system to boost the transition to “smart hospitals” in the near future.

“The NBTC has been utilising 5G technology at community hospitals and large local hospitals to pilot remote treatment of four health conditions – eye diseases, skin diseases, blood pressure abnormalities and diabetes,” Takorn added.

“Moreover, remote medical care has also expanded to local prisons, namely Khao Bin Central Prison and Ratchaburi Central Prison in Ratchaburi province, to give easier medical access to people and prisoners in remote areas. The ongoing NBTC projects aim to drive greater benefits from 5G innovation into different aspects of life across the country.

“Thailand has the advantages of a successful 5G auction and of being a 5G leader in Asean. The NBTC recognises these competitive advantages and is promoting integration of 5G technology in different sectors to close the digital divide in the country. This will prepare Thailand for a digital transformation that drives our daily life, work and manufacturing forward,” said Takorn.

Prof Dr Prasit Watanapa, dean of Siriraj Hospital’s Faculty of Medicine, Mahidol University, said: “As a result of the Covid-19 situation, the safety of patients and medical workers must be prioritised, including effective use of resources.

“Siriraj Hospital places importance on taking full advantage of digital technology in order to holistically increase the efficiency of medical services and operations. The 5G vehicle pilot project will enhance the central logistics system within the hospital.

“At the initial stage, it will be used to transport and distribute medicines for contactless delivery which will help reduce workload and infection risks of frontline workers. This is another important step to improve the quality of healthcare services for long-term development and sustainability.”

Abel Deng, CEO of Huawei Technologies (Thailand), added: “As a global leading company in technology, Huawei is honoured and delighted to continuously take part in assisting Thai medical staff. The pilot project … will operate under Huawei’s 5G technology to help transport medical supplies within the hospital.”

It exemplifies the accelerated digitalisation of Thailand’s medical services, as 5G will play a key role in the next generation of healthcare, he added.

5G applications in the domain of public health could also inspire businesses in other sectors to leverage 5G’s popularity and explore new applications of the technology, he said.

Most significantly, 5G technology will be the key driving force in the Thai economy’s recovery and power new economic and societal growth for the country in every aspect, he added.

#ศาสตร์เกษตรดินปุ๋ย : ขอบคุณแหล่งข้อมูล : หนังสือพิมพ์ The Nation.

AIS taps 5G tech to boost economic recovery

Jun 25. 2020AIS chief executive officer Somchai Lertsutiwong

By THE NATION

Advanced Info Service (AIS) is joining forces with partners in various industries to use its 5G network and solutions to enhance their competitiveness and revive the virus-battered economy.

The Covid-19 pandemic had caused greater impact worldwide than almost any other crisis, noted AIS chief executive officer Somchai Lertsutiwong. He identified three phases of the pandemic phenomenon: the fall into crisis, the fight to overcome the crisis, and struggle to create a sustainable future.

“We need digital infrastructure as a strong foundation to support and enhance our capabilities, especially technology like AIS 5G, which acts like a new vessel infusing the country with lifeblood for the journey ahead.”

Related story: 5G subscriptions to hit 190 million this year

AIS has invested more than Bt1.1 trillion in rolling out telecom infrastructure over the past 30 years and has set aside a budget of Bt35 billion-Bt45 billion to develop digital infrastructure this year.

AIS 5G technology was capable of boosting all major industrial sectors to help the country’s economic engines recover, said Somchai.

In the public health sector, AIS 5G solutions are supporting medics and helping them handle the pandemic.

In the industries of the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC), AIS has provided 5G network service and solutions to leading firms to enhance their operations.

In the retail sector, AIS is developing 5G Smart Retail with Central Retail Group.

On February 21 this year, AIS became the first operator to launch 5G services in Thailand, before expanding the network to all 77 provinces in last May.

Related Story: Krabi Airport to get 5G facility through Huawei in pilot project

#ศาสตร์เกษตรดินปุ๋ย : ขอบคุณแหล่งข้อมูล : หนังสือพิมพ์ The Nation.

Airbnb hosts in Thailand given new safety standards to follow

Jun 25. 2020

By THE NATION

In line with the lifting of lockdown measures under conditions of safety, Airbnb announced the launch of its “enhanced clean” programme in Thailand on Thursday (June 25), offering a standardised protocol for cleaning and sanitisation in the home-sharing industry.

Before launching the protocol, Airbnb sought guidance from the Public Health Ministry’s Department of Health, which provided recommendations in line with the country’s standards when it comes to sanitisation materials and cleaning methods.

Following guidelines from the World Health Organisation, the enhanced clean programme was developed in consultation with experts in the hospitality and medical hygiene sector, including Prof Dr Vip Viprakasit, the professor of Paediatrics and Haematology at the Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University.

Airbnb also collaborated with the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) to support guidelines for the short-term rental industry, and its standards have earned the WTTC Safe Travels seal.

The enhanced clean programme will be progressively rolled out in the coming weeks, providing local hosts step-by-step guidance on how to clean and sanitise their homes to prevent the spread of Covid-19.

Hosts who follow the programme will receive a special badge on their listing, making it easy for guests to identify and book listings that are safe.

“Airbnb hosts in Thailand pride themselves on offering a great guest experience and cleanliness is a key part of that. This new protocol will empower hosts and guests with the information they need to keep themselves safe and restore traveller confidence. We believe these standards set the bar for short-term rental accommodation and could form the foundation for a new industry-wide standard in Thailand,” said Mich Goh, chief of Airbnb’s public policy department for Southeast Asia.

#ศาสตร์เกษตรดินปุ๋ย : ขอบคุณแหล่งข้อมูล : หนังสือพิมพ์ The Nation.

Watsons distribution centre coming up in Frasers’ Khon Kaen logistics park

Jun 25. 2020

By THE NATION

Frasers Property (Thailand) Pcl and Central Watson Co Ltd (“Central Watson”) have joined hands to open Watsons first modern distribution centre in Khon Kaen province.

The centre will be located in Frasers’ Khon Kaen logistics park project, situated on Mitrapap Highway No. 2 close to the Muang district of Khon Kaen province.

The establishment of this regional distribution centre would allow Central Watson, a global health and beauty products retailer, to strengthen its supply chain and logistics management efficiency while minimising the cost of operation in the focused markets of the Northeast region, they said.

In addition to Central Watson’s existing distribution centre in Frasers’ Bangplee cluster, this centre will increase Central Watson’s operational capabilities with faster delivery to online shoppers. Upon completion of this centre, the total area leased to Central Watson by Frasers will be over 21,000 square metres.

The total built area covers 9,000sqm and the new warehouse is expected to facilitate future expansion.

The Central Watson’s distribution centre is expected to be completed by the first half of 2021.

#ศาสตร์เกษตรดินปุ๋ย : ขอบคุณแหล่งข้อมูล : หนังสือพิมพ์ The Nation.

Line Thailand launches campaign to ‘Debut’ new influencers

Jun 24. 2020

By THE NATION

Line Thailand is launching the “Debut” campaign to find new influencers in the local social media industry and offering up to Bt5 million in awards.

Contestants, aged between 15 and 28, are required to submit photographs and videos. 

Photographs must comprise a portrait, a mugshot and a full-body shot, while videos must include an introduction clip and one displaying the contestant’s talent. Clips can be no longer than three minutes. 

Winners will not only get awards but will also get a chance to attend the “Line Debut Camp”, where they will be trained in the art of influencing by five professional influencers. 

Winners will also get to appear in Line TV dramas as well as participate in content produced by content provider, Good Day Official.

Those interested have until July 8 to register via @lineidolth. Additional details can also be found in the official account.

#ศาสตร์เกษตรดินปุ๋ย : ขอบคุณแหล่งข้อมูล : หนังสือพิมพ์ The Nation.

Grand Mercure hotel prepares to reopen under new normal

Jun 24. 2020

By The Nation

Bangkok’s Grand Mercure Fortune hotel is launching several promotions as it prepares to reopen on July 1 under the “new normal”.

The promotions include:

• Deluxe rooms at Bt2,499 net per night including breakfast from July 1 to September 30.

• Late check-out at 2pm based on room availability.

• Early check-in from 8am based on room availability.

• Welcome drink.

• Free upgrade to Grand Deluxe (without benefits) for patrons staying for a minimum of two nights.

• 50 per cent discount on buffet lunch and dinner at the One Ratchada Restaurant (food only).

• 30 per cent discount at the SilpArt Wellness and Spa.

Call (02) 641 1500, email H5931-SM7@accor.com, or visit official website for more information.

#ศาสตร์เกษตรดินปุ๋ย : ขอบคุณแหล่งข้อมูล : หนังสือพิมพ์ The Nation.

Electricity authority warns of bill collection, services scam

Jun 24. 2020

By THE NATION

The Metropolitan Electricity Authority (MEA) has warned customers to beware of individuals claiming to be MEA staff and offering to collect money due on their power bill, change their meter or clean their air conditioner.

Phasuk Sampunnachote, MEA public relations director, on Tuesday (June 23) said there had been reports of individuals pretending to be MEA staff and providing services for a fee.

“MEA has no policy of dispatching staff to provide services at houses of customers who haven’t booked a service with us in advance,” she said.

“Our annual aircon cleaning campaign started in March, but users must register via the MEA Smart Life application to receive the professional service, which costs only Bt300.” However, she added that this year’s campaign had ended after the service limit was reached, while registration for next year’s campaign hasn’t started yet.

“MEA is not offering meter-changing or maintenance services at the moment,” she said. “Furthermore, customers can conveniently pay their power bills via credit card, internet banking, ATMs, mobile banking, the MEA Smart Life app or at MEA branch offices.”

For the latest updates on MEA’s campaign activities, contact the call centre at 1130, or see twitter: @MEA_news, Line: @meathailand, Facebook: @Metropolitan.Electricity.Authority or download the “MEA Smart Life” mobile app, available for both Android and iOS users.

“If you witness or have information about individuals pretending to be MEA agents, please alert local police or contact MEA via the above-mentioned channels,” said Phasuk.