Kanchanburi’s Srinagarind Dam closed after tiger sighting
MONDAY, JANUARY 23, 2023
The Srinagarind Dam in Kanchanaburi province was shut to tourists on Sunday after a tiger was sighted prowling nearby.
Dam director Charnnarong Chanmongkhol also ordered his officials to evacuate the area until the big cat is either captured or moves on.
The tiger was caught on a CCTV camera at around 2am on Sunday morning.
Erawan subdistrict mayor Kitthisit Thummas published the footage on Facebook on Sunday, warning villagers and tourists not to approach the area.
Officials from Salakpra Wildlife Sanctuary in Kanchanaburi said the big cat, thought to be an Indochinese tiger, was seen roaming around the dam wall. The dam wall is connected to an area of forest that will soon be declared as the Si Sawat Wildlife Sanctuary, they added.
Officials contacted Panthera Thailand, an NGO that studies tigers in Kanchanaburi, to help identify and capture the big cat so it can be returned to the safety of its usual habitat.
Over 20 officials scoured the area on Sunday afternoon but failed to locate the tiger, finding only its footprints, which were 20 centimetres in diameter.
There are thought to be no more than 200 tigers left in Thailand. Conservation efforts were hit by the killing of two tigers last January in Kanchanaburi. Poaching is driven mainly by demand from China and Vietnam for tiger parts used in Chinese traditional medicine.
Opened in 1980, Srinagarind Dam stretches 140 metres high and 610 metres long across the River Kwai in Si Sawat District. The hydroelectric dam has capacity to generate 720 megawatts. It also attracts tourists for its scenic lake views, a 30-rai of national park and a giant 32-metre-wide sundial.
Thai films can shine globally but strategic thinking is required, experts say
SUNDAY, JANUARY 22, 2023
Jarupong Krisanaraj
Long-term strategies and goals are required to ensure that Thailand’s film industry shines globally, industry experts told a seminar at the Bangkok Art and Cultural Centre on Saturday.
The seminar was part of the three-day Bangkok Film Festival hosted by the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) as part of its strategy to promote Bangkok as a capital for creativity. The film festival wraps up on Sunday.
Thanwarin Sukpisit, member of the Thai Film Directors Association’s board of directors, said the emergence of video streaming services gave viewers more alternatives for watching films without diminishing the value of films.
Thanwarin Sukpisit
Thailand’s film industry must be developed with long-term thinking, and it should start with raising awareness of the arts among the general public because awareness levels are low, she said.
She used an analogy to explain that there was too much focus on literal interpretation. “For example, a student who draws an orange with durian skin may get zero points in art class without being given the chance to explain why they drew it that way,” she said.
Thanwarin also said that criticism of films was often based on a lack of awareness about the arts.
Censorship should be eliminated from Thailand so that people can think freely, she added.
Thanwarin also urged the government to provide more support for filmmakers, such as setting up a fund to support making films and helping filmmakers get permission to use locations for shooting.
Making films in Thailand is difficult due to complex regulations and it is not a financially lucrative profession, she said, noting that filmmakers have low incomes compared to other jobs.
She advised filmmakers to pay more attention to attracting audiences. Simply using films as tools to promote Thailand’s soft power by focusing on things like food and places risks making the films meaningless, she warned.
“We can set up our target [to promote Thailand among foreigners], but attracting [Thai] audiences must come first,” she said, adding that audiences will eventually be interested in Thailand’s soft power if the content of the films produced here is appealing enough.
Banjong Pisanthanakun
Thai filmmaker Banjong Pisanthanakun and Thai actress Manatsanun Panlertwongskul said they were facing a hard time careerwise due to the Covid-19 crisis and emergence of video streaming services.
“Thailand’s film industry can be developed similar to South Korea’s, but it must be developed carefully,” Banjong said, adding that the government and filmmakers must work together.
Thai films have the potential to shine globally if the industry receives government support, he said.
Manatsanun Panlertwongskul
Manatsanun said most Thai filmmakers decided to work with overseas agencies due to the complexity in filmmaking regulations and insufficient funds in Thailand.
“Thailand’s film industry needs more assistance in order to move ahead,” she said. The film industry can help promote tourist attractions and culture, as well as create jobs, she added.
Sanon Wangsrangboon
Deputy Bangkok Governor Sanon Wangsrangboon said promoting Thailand’s film industry was part of the BMA’s plan to promote the capital as a city for everyone.
Sanon also vowed to cooperate with relevant agencies to promote Thailand’s film industry.
He said the BMA would set up a one-stop service to facilitate requests from filmmakers to shoot in specific locations and create a network to attract students to enter the film industry.
The BMA needs to talk with the Interior Ministry to set up a fund to support Thailand’s film industry, Sanon said.
PM Office minister denies ordering ‘siren service’ for Chinese TikTok influencer
SUNDAY, JANUARY 22, 2023
A Cabinet member and the government spokesman denied on Sunday that they told police to provide VIP service to a Chinese TikTok influencer, including a police escort from Suvarnabhumi International Airport to her hotel in Pattaya during which a police vehicle used its siren to ensure swift transport.
The pair – PM’s Office Minister Thanakorn Wangboonkongchana and government spokesman Anucha Burapachaisri – were responding to a media report that quoted Tourist Police spokesman Maj Gen Apichart Suriboonya implicating a PM’s Office minister.
Apichart was quoted in a report broadcast by Channel 7 saying that one of the policemen involved in the scandal claimed he had been contacted by the driver of a PM’s Office minister and told to escort a Chinese woman and her mother from the airport to their Pattaya hotel.
Apichart, however, said on Sunday that he had never told any media outlet that the policemen in the viral clip implicated a driver of a PM’s Office minister.
The scandal erupted after a video clip of the incident went viral on Chinese social media. The video was posted by an attractive young woman who boasted about receiving special service from the Thai police.
Money can buy anything from the Thai police, she says in the viral video clip.
She arrived at Suvarnabhumi International Airport at about 10.00pm on January 19 on a Hong Kong Airlines flight.
She said a team of Thai policemen escorted her and her mother from the plane, whisked them through Immigration and Customs, carried their luggage to a taxi, and even opened the vehicle’s door for them.
They behaved like hotel bellboys rather than police officers.
The young woman claimed a police motorcycle subsequently drove in front of her taxi and used its siren to ensure swift travel to Pattaya.
A motorcycle escort costs 6,000 baht, while a police car costs 7,000 baht, she told her Chinese viewers. The service allowed her to avoid traffic and arrive at her hotel in record time, she noted.
When she bought her tour service, its operator asked her if she wanted to use a police escort service or not, she claimed.
Thanakorn said he had checked with his driver and aides and they knew nothing of the VIP service given to the Chinese tourist and her mother.
He said he would fully cooperate with any investigation. Thanakorn said he has also checked with Anucha and the spokesman said no one on his team was involved in the scandal.
Apichart said the incident was still under investigation and the three policemen in the video clip had yet to give their official testimony.
“We have not yet summoned them to testify because we are still in the process of forming a fact-finding panel,” Apichart said.
Apichart said the three policemen in the clip were Capt Sompol, a deputy inspector of Tourist Police Division 3 in charge of the Suvarnabhumi Airport, and two traffic policemen of the Metropolitan Police Bureau: Sgt Thanakorn and Gen Thanawat.
Apichart said a preliminary probe found that the motorcycle used to escort the influencer was not an official police vehicle. It was too big to be a police bike, so it had to be a personal motorcycle, he said.
Apichart said the three policemen might not face criminal charges but would face a disciplinary probe for alleged improper behaviour.
Police have to take care of all tourists equally and should not provide special care to particular ones, he explained.
On Saturday, Maj Gen Archayon Kraithong, Royal Thai Police spokesman, said national police chief Gen Damrongsak Kittiprapas had learned of the video clip and ordered a probe as it had severely damaged the image of Thailand’s finest.
Archayon said a Cabinet resolution dated September 25, 2001 allowed police motorcades to be provided only for national VIPs, politicians or guests of the government.
In other cases, traffic police have to request permission from the traffic police chief and this can be given on a case by case basis, the spokesman added.
FDA warns against improper use of liquid nitrogen in sweets and snacks
SUNDAY, JANUARY 22, 2023
The Food and Drug Administration on Sunday warned Thai food shops and bakeries to be extremely cautious when using liquid nitrogen to decorate their treats.
The FDA made the warning after the Jakarta Times reported that more than 20 children in Indonesia suffered stomach burns after eating “chiki ngebul”, a street snack doused with frozen liquid nitrogen.
The children ate the snacks, also known as “dragon’s breath”, while participating in a viral TikTok trend.
Withit Saritdeechayakul, deputy FDA secretary-general, said owners of food shops or bakeries that used excessive amounts of liquid nitrogen that harmed consumers would face two years in jail and a fine of up to 20,000 baht.
Withit also advised consumers to avoid directly touching or inhaling liquid nitrogen because their skin or tissue could be damaged by it.
If they want to eat snacks or sweets topped with liquid nitrogen, they must wait for the substance to vaporise entirely before consuming the snack.
Bakery and food shops must strictly comply with the FDA directive No 418 of 2020 and the Public Health Ministry’s directive No 281 of 2004 on food additives when they use liquid nitrogen in their menus, Withit said.
Confidence in police plunges amidst policing scandals, survey finds
SUNDAY, JANUARY 22, 2023
Most Thais lack confidence in the police, and less than 10% say they have plenty of confidence in them, according to a survey published on Sunday.
The survey was conducted by the National Institute of Development Administration from January 18 to 20 – amidst high-profile scandals involving Thai police.
The institute said 1,310 people aged 18 and above responded to the survey nationwide. They represent a range of income and educational backgrounds, the institute said. It released the following summary of the survey:
Do you have confidence in the police?
39.01% Little
26.72% None
25.34% Some
8.93% Plenty
How frightened of crime are you?
35.65% Moderately frightened
33.51% Very frightened
17.63% Not very frightened
13.21% Not frightened
What crimes are you most frightened of?
40.46% Cyber crimes
24.66% Narcotics
15.27% Murders
9.00% Scams
5.42% Sexual assault
5.19% Robberies
Have you used police services over the past year?
80.23% No
19.77% Yes
The 259 respondents who used police services over the past year were asked: Were you satisfied with the services?
34.75% Moderately satisfied
22.78% Strongly satisfied
22.01% Moderately unsatisfied
20.46% Unsatisfied
What is your favourite police division?
29.08% Crime investigation
27.02% Traffic management
22.06% Crime prevention and suppression
12.83% None
9.01% General inquiries
What characteristics should a good police officer have?
37.18% Ethics and transparency
25.73% Fast action without discrimination
17.86% Good behaviour
11.53% Strict law enforcement
3.74% Control their emotions and deal effectively with situations
German jumps off Krabi cliff to death after first suicide attempt was prevented
SUNDAY, JANUARY 22, 2023
A German tourist jumped to his death from a cliff in a national park in Krabi while park officers were escorting him down a trail from a mountaintop where an hour earlier they had prevented him from attempting suicide, police said on Sunday.
They said the tourist, identified as “Loo”, had been suffering from depression and that he jumped from a cliff at 6.30pm while being escorted down Khao Ngon Nak mountain.
The mountain is in Hat Noppharat Thara-Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park in Krabi’s Muang district.
Park officers were alerted by the man’s mother earlier on Saturday that he was suicidal.
Tikawut Sriburin, chief of the park, said Loo’s mother called the park office at 1.30pm on Saturday to inform officers that her son was suffering from depression and had called her to say he intended to commit suicide.
Park officers then checked the registry of entrants to the park and found that Loo entered at 11.12am. They requested a photo of the man from his mother and then began searching for him, Tikawut said.
Park officers located Loo at 5.30pm on the mountaintop. They spoke to him until he appeared calm and then agreed to follow the officers down a trail from the mountain, Tikawut said.
While descending the trail Loo answered a call on his mobile phone at 6.30pm. He then finished the call and apologised to the park officers, Tikawut said.
After apologising to the officers, Loo then sprinted to the edge of a cliff nearby and jumped, Tikawut said.
Park officers were shocked, he said, adding that the man ran so suddenly and quickly that they were unable to stop him.
Park officers did not say who Loo was speaking to on his final phone call or what he said.
Rescue officials took about two hours to reach the bottom of the rocky ravine Loo had jumped into. It was about 50 metres below the edge of the cliff he had jumped from.
It took rescue officials several hours to recover the man’s body.
Tikawut said the man’s body had been sent to Surat Thani Hospital. The German Embassy was informed of the man’s death and asked to contact his relatives.
Documentary makers offer survival tips in the era of social media
SUNDAY, JANUARY 22, 2023
Jarupong Krisanaraj
The prevalence of social media has changed filmmakers’ concept when it comes to attracting audiences, a winner of the Bangkok Film Festival’s short documentary contest said.
The film festival at the Bangkok Art and Cultural Centre is being hosted by the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) in a bid to promote Bangkok as a capital for creativity. The festival wraps up on Sunday.
Freelance content creator and filmmaker Anuwat Duangbunma said social media was easy to access and had become very popular, especially among young people.
Anuwat Duangbunma
“Teenagers love watching short films on social media,” he said, adding that he has been making full use of Facebook, TikTok and YouTube to publish content.
Anuwat’s short film “Bangkok and Generation” won the first prize in the contest titled “Connecting Bangkok 2030”. The second and third prizes were won by Rajamangala University of Technology Thanyaburi students Burinpon Yenjit and Natthawut Thinsuwan’s “Dreams of a Green City” and Wittaya Dokklang’s “Hallo Bangkok”, respectively.
From left, Natthawut Thinsuwan and Burinpon Yenjit
Burinpon and Natthawut explained that short entertaining clips are far more popular than documentaries.
“Documentaries can be boring,” Natthawut said, adding that content creators need to make an extra effort to attract audiences. Both students said they have been working hard on honing their skills to create attractive content.
Wittaya Dokklang
Wittaya said before social media, documentaries were out of people’s reach.
“But documentaries have changed nowadays,” he said, adding that many media outlets are making shorter documentary films to keep the audience engaged.
He also advised content creators to improve their production methods, such as adjusting video lengths and selecting interesting subjects to attract a wider audience.
Last year, the government launched its so-called “5 Fs soft power” campaign, which aims to promote five key attractions – food, film, fashion, fighting and festivals – internationally.
Ministries, government agencies and the BMA have been taking steps – some big, some small – to promote Thailand’s soft power around the world.
2023: What’s in the Rabbit’s hat for you this year?
SUNDAY, JANUARY 22, 2023
Ramona Varma
The Rabbit has hopped into our lives for 2023, and with its Water element it brings “hope” for a peaceful and prosperous year.
According to the Chinese zodiac, the luckiest signs this year will be the Ox, Tiger and Snake, followed by Dogs, Horses, Sheep and Pigs. Poor Roosters and Monkeys will need to work really hard to make headway in 2023, while the fortunes of the Rabbit and Rat may face turmoil from Tai Sui, or the “Grand Duke of Jupiter”.
Here’s a quick look at how the gentle Water Rabbit may affect you this year, according to your birth sign:
RAT (born 1924, 1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008) The Rats are crushed by Tai Sui this year, meaning they could find things difficult financially. They should keep a low profile and not trust others easily. Career-wise, they should think twice before making decisions. However, the Rat’s love life is generally lucky this year, with affairs of the heart in abundance. Those who do hook up will enjoy stable relationships, and the longer they stay single, the more likely they will encounter Mr/Ms Right. Their health may also be quite good all year.
OX (1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009) Rabbit year is mainly positive for the Ox, especially in terms of career. They can expect good opportunities and may even make headway towards becoming wealthy. However, they should learn to be patient, pay attention to their finances and be thrifty in their spending habits. Oxen who are single are likely to meet someone promising, while those in couples can look forward to stability. Healthwise, it is important to pay attention to what you eat and follow the “prevention is better than cure” principle.
TIGER (1938, 1950, 1962,1974, 1986, 1998, 2010, 2022) For Tigers, the Rabbit heralds a year of prosperity, luck and abundance. Tigers may do well both in career and business, provided they keep their feet firmly planted on the ground. Though they will generally do well with work, Tigers should keep an eye out for rogues who may harm them. Single Tigers will easily be able to charm themselves into a relationship, though they still need to guard against bad romances. Things are likely to go smoothly for big cats in relationships, though they may need to devote more time to their loved ones. While this is a strong year for Tigers’ health, they should watch out for minor ailments.
RABBIT (1963, 1975, 1987, 1999, 2011, 2023) Rabbits may find this year a little challenging, especially since they are likely to clash with the “Grand Duke”. Finances could be a problem, especially if they are not cautious. However, hard work and attention to detail will help in the long run – though Rabbits should keep an eye out for jealous colleagues. Love-wise, single Rabbits are advised against hooking up just for the sake of it, while those already committed may have trouble with their partner. Rabbits may be bad-tempered or moody this year and are advised against making impulsive decisions.
DRAGON (1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012) This is a year of ups and downs for the fiery Dragon, with outcomes uncertain. Professionally, they are advised to keep their head down and work hard, as dedication will pay in the long run. Financial life may be a bit difficult, so be prepared. On the relationship front, single Dragons are advised to be careful who they choose, while couples should take care of their partners as things may get turbulent. To keep problems at bay, pay attention to your health, exercise, and keep a cool head.
SNAKE (1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013) This year promises to be fairly good for Snakes, especially their finances. Snakes who have been working hard could find that their diligence starts paying off. Those in business will encounter more opportunities, though those working for others may suffer jealousy from co-workers if they don’t keep their heads down. In terms of love, Snakes will be generally lucky and make excellent friendships that may grow into more. Those already paired off can expect the relationship to last, provided both partners make time for each other. Snakes are advised not to neglect their health this year and seek medical advice if they have any problems.
HORSE (1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, 2014) Horses are urged to remain positive this year despite the setbacks. Those running a business are advised to be careful with their investments, especially if they are planning to expand. Career-wise, they may face difficulties initially, but eventually things will fall into place. Single Horses may not be very lucky in love this year, while those in couples may suffer quarrels – though handled properly, they should not cause long-term damage. Horses will be generally healthy this year but should be on guard for liver and stomach complaints.
SHEEP (1943, 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003, 2015) The Year of the Rabbit will be generally lucky for the Sheep – especially when it comes to work. They will encounter good financial fortune, though they are still advised to keep a check on their spending. Building a network will be beneficial for those in business, while employees can expect a promotion or raise. When it comes to love, though, the grass may lose its shine if Sheep become too possessive. To keep peace, couples are advised to give each other space, while singles are urged to look (and look again) before hooking up. Health is generally good for the Sheep this year provided they don’t get too stressed out at work.
MONKEY (1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004, 2016) The Water Rabbit may bring a year of peace, blessings and happiness for Monkeys. Their hard work and perseverance should finally pay off, though they should be wary of get-rich-quick schemes. Those in business should be cautious before expanding, while those working for others may just make a breakthrough. This year shines very bright for Monkey’s love prospects, but if they prefer singledom, they should not push themselves into a relationship. Those already in love are expected to strengthen their bonds. Healthwise, they may face some minor problems.
ROOSTER (1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1992, 2005, 2017) This year will be financially average for Roosters, and they are advised against making rash decisions. Those in business should think twice before investing, while employees may have to make some adjustments. Roosters in a relationship may suffer some turbulence and must pay attention learn to work-life balance. Single Roosters, however, may have to work very hard to find the right one. On the health front, Roosters can expect a year of flourishing and stability provided they adopt good habits.
DOG (1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006, 2018) The Water Rabbit year brings luck and fortune for the Dog, both financially and in relationships. Dogs can make good returns on investments and breakthroughs in their jobs. Those in government jobs will do particularly well, provided they seize opportunities at the right time. Dogs are also very lucky in love this year, especially single pooches, who can expect to enjoy many romantic encounters. Those already in a relationship, however, should work hard at being faithful if they want to maintain harmony at home. Dogs are advised to adopt healthy habits to avoid physical problems.
PIG (1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007, 2019) This year may bring Pigs everything they have been waiting for. Their overall financial fortunes will be fairly good this year, with great opportunities for expansion and promotion. Pigs in the sales and finance industry will do particularly well, while those running businesses will find lots of support from friends. The Pig will also be very lucky in love this year, so singles should seek the “right one” for that romantic fairy-tale. Homelife for those with partners will be harmonious and loving. Health for Pigs will be average, though, and the advice is to avoid overindulgence and too many sleepless nights.
Kenyans set new records as 7th Buriram Marathon draws over 30,000 runners
SUNDAY, JANUARY 22, 2023
Runners from Kenya set new records at the Buriram Marathon in both the male and female categories on Saturday.
More than 30,000 participants, including 1,063 foreign runners from 46 countries, joined the races on a course that passes by the major attractions in the Northeast province’s Muang district.
Tourism and Sports Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn presided over the opening ceremony of the marathon promoting Buriram as a “runners’ paradise”.
The event featured four races – a marathon (42.195 kilometres), a half marathon (21.1km), a mini marathon (10km), and a fun run (4.554km) – with start times staggered from late afternoon to late evening.
Kenyan Titus Kipkoskai, 30, set a new record in the men’s marathon with a time of 2.08.57, shaving almost three seconds off the previous record of 2.11.46. Kenyan Agnes Kaino set a record in the women’s marathon with a time of 2.28.08. The previous record was 2.32.41.
Thai male and female runners, Sanchai Namkhet and Linda Intachit, finished their marathons just seconds behind, at 2.30.00 and 2.51.51, respectively.
Sanchai said he was satisfied because his time was faster than the previous year. He also thanked his fans for cheering him on.
Kenyan runner James Caranja took first place in the men’s half marathon with a time of 1.09.29. Thai runner Onanong Wongsorn won the women’s half marathon with a time of 1.24.29.
Thai runner Nattawut Innum, who won third place in the men’s half marathon – with a time of 1.06.05 – said he was satisfied with the result because he broke the record for the 18 to 29 years old age group of 1.07.58.
Thai runners Nattawat Innum and Khemjira Chua-in won first place in the men’s and women’s mini marathons, with times of 32.10 and 39.20 minutes to complete the distance, respectively. Nattawat is Nattawut’s younger brother.
Kunlavut, Supanida carry Thai hopes in Indian Open semi-finals
SUNDAY, JANUARY 22, 2023
Thailand’s world No. 8 Kunlavut Vitidsarn booked his second straight semi-final appearance on the BWF World Tour after he stamped his authority over former world champion Lo Kean Yew of Singapore in the Yonex Sunrise India Open badminton on Friday.
Seven days after reaching the Malaysian Open last four, the in-form Thai No. 1 utilised his signature defensive game to upset the Singaporean third seed 21-12 21-17 in the quarter-finals. It was Kunlavut’s fourth straight win over the 2021 BWF world champion.
After a sluggish start that saw him trail Lo 7-11 at the first intermission, the 21-year-old Thai tightened his defensive strategy while his opponent made a string of unforced errors. Kunlavut reeled off 12 straight points to surge ahead at 19-11, allowing just one more point to his rival before landing the opener with ease.
World No. 7 Lo raised his game and pushed his Thai rival to the limit in the second game. But at 17-all, Kunlavut surged ahead, taking four successive points to close the deal. It was the first time that Kunlavut had beaten Lo in straight games. Last week, he prevailed over the Singaporean in three games in Malaysia.
In Saturday’s semi-finals, the Thai ace will face world No. 3 Anthony Sinisuka Ginting of Indonesia.
On the women’s side, Thailand’s world No. 30 Supanida Katehong got a walk-over into the semi-finals after Olympic gold medalist Chen Yufei of China pulled out due to illness.
Supanida will take on world No. 1 Akane Yamaguchi of Japan, the title winner in Malaysia last week. However, Pornpawee Chochuwong, the other Thai in the quarter-finals, was sent packing by second-seeded An Se Young of South Korea 21-14 21-14.