Heavy rain, flash flood warning issued for South, holiday islands on Sunday
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 06, 2022
The Thai Meteorological Department issued a warning of flash floods and runoffs across the South due to heavy rainstorms on Sunday.
The department forecast continuous heavy to very heavy rainfall from the monsoon trough across the lower South and a depression over the lower Andaman Sea.
“People should beware of severe conditions that may cause flash floods and overflows, especially along the waterways near foothills and lowlands,” the department said.
The forecast for upper Thailand is a cool morning with light fog in many parts, though the temperature will rise by 1-2 degrees Celsius.
An easterly wind in the lower Northeast and East will bring isolated rain,” the department said.
It advised people to take health precautions in the variable weather conditions.
24-hour forecast:
North: Morning cool and light fog, temperature lows of 16-19C and highs of 31-34C. Temperature on hilltops likely to drop to 8-14C.
Northeast: Morning cool with light fog and isolated light rain mostly in lower parts. Temperature lows of 16-22C and highs of 31-32C. Temperature on hilltops likely to drop to 10-14C.
Central: Cool morning with light fog. A rise in temperature of 1-2C. Temperature lows of 20-22C and highs of 31-33C.
East: Cool morning with light fog. Temperature rise of 1-2C. Isolated rain mostly in Chonburi, Rayong, Chanthaburi and Trat. Temperature lows of 22-24C, highs of 31-33C; waves about 1 metre high, and higher offshore.
South (east coast): Fairly widespread thundershowers and isolated heavy to very heavy rain in Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumphon, Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phatthalung, Songkhla, Pattani, Yala and Narathiwat. Temperature lows of 21-24C, highs of 28-31C; waves about 1 metre high, rising higher to two metres in thundershowers from Prachuap Khiri Khan to Chumphon.
South (west coast): Fairly widespread thundershowers and isolated heavy to very heavy rain in Ranong, Phang Nga, Phuket, Krabi, Trang and Satun. Temperature lows of 23-24C, highs of 29-32C; waves 1 metre high, higher in thundershowers.
Bangkok and surrounding areas: Cool morning with light fog. A rise in temperature of 1-2C. Isolated light rain. Temperature lows of 22-23C, highs of 31-34C.
Waste not, want not: From corn husks to floating beauties in Korat
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 05, 2022
For a long time, Teflon and plastic floats clogged up waterways during Loy Krathong in Thailand until creative people came up with more eco-friendly versions made from bread and banana leaves.
Now a woman in Nakhon Ratchasima (aka Korat) has gone one step further and come up with krathongs made from a long-overlooked farm waste – corn husks. Nonglak Inthamart, 30, said her village in the Northeast province’s Soeng Sang district grows maize and is left with huge amounts of husks after harvest. So, she decided that maybe this waste can be put to good use and turned into floats. So she looked for DIY tutorials on the net and came up with her first set of corn-husk floats after some trial and error.
For her floats, she cleans and dyes the husks with natural pigment before folding them to look like lotus petals and glueing them together to make krathongs. Nonglak has put her ingenious krathongs on sale at her village shop for the upcoming Loy Krathong. Prices range from 30 baht to 200 baht, depending on the size and intricacy. However, she said, the medium-sized floats going for 100 baht are the most popular. She said she received more than 200 orders for her colourful floats after she posted photos on Facebook. Inquiries can be made by calling Nonglak at (092) 541 4130. This year’s Loy Krathong Festival, or “festival of floating lanterns”, falls on November 8 – the full-moon night of the Thai lunar calendar’s 12th month.
With the world more divided than ever, will Thailand be able to successfully balance world powers at the upcoming Apec Summit? Especially with the Russia-Ukraine war in the background and President Vladimir Putin scheduled to attend.
The last time Thailand hosted Apec nations was in 2003, and it was a successful event. Leaders from across the world had gathered and made agreements on free trade and enhancing security. The Thai government is hoping for a repeat of that success this month, but the conditions are different. This time, Apec members are torn – facing differences and threats.
The biggest threat is the Russia-Ukraine war, which complicates Thailand’s role as summit host in many ways.
Russia – Ukraine War Russia is a key Apec member but is being condemned and sanctioned by many other Apec nations like the US, Australia, Canada, Japan and New Zealand for invading Ukraine. On the other hand, other Apec members like China have rejected calls to condemn Russia for the invasion and have refused to join international sanctions against Moscow.
The question for Thailand as host of the Apec Summit now is: how will it balance these differences and ease tensions? If it makes the right moves, it could help with negotiations and bring peace to Ukraine faster. However, one minor mistake in the meeting with Russia, the US and China on the same table may result in an intensification of the war.
Though Thailand has taken pains to avoid condemning Russia directly, it shares the same hope as others that the war in Ukraine ends quickly. Hence, as Apec host this year, Thailand is not trying to isolate Russia from the rest of the world. The government has extended an invitation to Russia and is hoping Putin will attend. Thailand is hoping to balance negotiations with all sides and find the best solution for this conflict.
https://www.youtube.com/embed/bS69YRT6hC4 It also hopes there is no repeat of the incident at the Apec Ministers Responsible for Trade Meeting on May 21-22 when representatives from five countries walked out. Representatives from Canada, New Zealand, Japan and Australia joined their US counterpart in walking out while Russian Economy Minister Maxim Reshetnikov was delivering remarks.
Of course, Apec leaders are bound to clash over handling relations with Russia. Many members will try to exclude Moscow, but their efforts will most likely be blocked by China. Maintaining a balance between its neutral stance and being a capable host may put Thailand in an awkward situation.
Queen Sirikit National Convention Center (QSNCC) / APEC 2022
Apart from balancing challenges over the war, Thailand also has to tackle potential confrontations between China and the US over trade competition. While the US is doing what it can to protect its interests and supremacy, China is looking for ways to get its hands on the pie. Hence, Thailand will likely find itself in a difficult position – balancing the US and China’s economic concerns and stance.
The world is far more divided this year than it was in 2003 when each Apec country had its own agenda and interests to protect.
Furthermore, this will be the first time Apec leaders come face to face in three years since the pandemic. Anticipation and expectations are high as the world watches to see if Thailand can play a good balancing act and is successful in hosting the Apec Summit again.
Breguet opens new Bangkok boutique marked by new collections unveiling
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 04, 2022
Breguet Thailand invites you to experience precious moments with the luxury and elegant Breguet timepieces at the new boutique situated in the Mandarin Oriental Bangkok Hotel.
The boutique has rolled out the red carpet for enthusiasts of the refinement of the world-class watch brand from Switzerland. The opening was marked by the official unveiling of the new Breguet collections at a warm reception presided over by Ms Yonlaon Watcharapetch, Vice President of Brequet Thailand. Among the distinguished guests were Mr Kris Chatikarat, Ms Tipanat Lenbury, Ms Mayuree Chaipromprasitj, Ms Saranthon Asavet and Mr Yos Watkanai.
The event was highlighted by the debut of the Classique 7337 Calendar, Classique Dame 8068 and Reine de Naples 8918.
The Classique 7337 Calendar features a modern style while retaining the strong codes that have forged the brand’s history.
Available in 18K white or rose gold, this new timepiece is fitted with a strap in midnight blue for the white gold case model and a mysterious brown for the rose gold version.
The Classique Dame 8068 is revealed in a new interpretation of appearance. It stands out with a dial that is full of contemporary flair and a mechanism enabling the wearer to change the strap easily and quickly by oneself as desired. Available in both white gold and rose gold cases, the Classique Dame 8068 represents the first time in the Breguet series to offer three interchangeable straps. The white gold version comes with a leather strap in teal blue and Byzantium purple, while the white gold edition offers peacock blue and raspberry pink.
The Reine de Naples 8918 was inspired by the world’s first wristwatch built in 1812 in tribute to Caroline Murat, Queen of Naples and the sister of Napoleon. It features a black dial with Grand Feu enamel art that uses a blend of silica and oxide to bring out many shades of enamel. Another special feature is the day-night and striking hour functions which were invented especially for it.
Come experiencing the timeless elegance of Breguet watches which have been meticulously crafted as the inventions of beautiful and valuable timepieces at the new boutique Inside the Mandarin Oriental Bangkok Hotel.
Science Film Festival 2022 asks: Why so few women scientists?
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 04, 2022
Vitaya Saeng-Aroon
If asked to name a female scientist, most people will mention Marie Curie – the Polish-French physicist who discovered radium and polonium, and contributed to the treatment of cancer.
But she died some 88 years ago, and since then, hardly any women have become household names in the scientific industry.
Addressing this very problem is the German short film “Mind the Gap – (No) Role Models”, which is among the 34 films being shown at the 18th Science Film Festival, which runs until December 20.
The theme of the festival this year is “Equal Opportunities in Science”, which aims to shed light on the role of women in science.
The Science Film Festival was launched in 2005 by the Institute for the Promotion of Teaching Science and Technology (IPST) in collaboration with the Goethe-Institut of Thailand.
Over the years, the event has won increasing support from partners and organisations and has also been on the radar of teachers, students and parents.
Last year’s event attracted 286,823 viewers and was also shown in other countries in Southeast Asia, Africa and the Middle East, IPST president Assoc Prof Dr Thiradet Jiarasuksakun said.
“This year’s festival focuses on sharing opportunities in the exploration of science, technology, engineering and mathematics [STEM] subjects, so people have better opportunities and can keep up with the rapidly changing world,” he said.
“STEM focuses on the real-life application of integrated knowledge to cope with the changes and challenges in the modern world. It helps us build the ability of learning, working, solving problems as well as searching and analysing new findings to be able to handle every situation that may arise.”
As per the 2021 Unesco Science Report, one in three researchers globally is a woman. In Africa, 30% of science professionals are women and more women are enrolling to study STEM courses.
Yet, women and girls are still under-represented in this industry. Globally, only 12% of science students are women, and they comprise slightly over a quarter (28%) of tertiary graduates in engineering and 40% of computer science graduates.
“When we talk about gender diversity and inclusion, it should start at school. A society that does not allow inclusion will end up overlooking people’s potential. Also, we can’t achieve sustainability, if women are excluded,” German Ambassador Georg Schmidt said in his opening remarks.
“If you don’t include women, you will miss half of the picture.”
This year’s festival offers films under the categories of Family Edutainment; Natural Science, Life Science and Technology; Non-Verbal and Science Shorts; and Ecology and Environment.
The offerings come from India, Australia, Germany, Ireland, Angola, Switzerland, Belgium, Japan, Croatia, Malawi, the United States and the United Kingdom.
The films will be shown for free from November 1 to December 20. Venues include the NSTDA Thailand Science Park, the Thai Film Archive, the National Science Museum, City Learning Park Nakhon Si Thammarat and Science Centres in other provinces such as Ubon Ratchathani, Lampang, Roi Et, Kanchanaburi, Yala, Sa Kaew, Trang, Nakhon Sawan, Khon Kaen, Ayutthaya, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Nakhon Phanom, Phitsanulok, Narathiwat, Pattani and Nakhon Ratchasima.
The films can also be watched online via a streaming system, which requires viewers to register first. To ease accessibility, all films are dubbed in Thai and have subtitles.
“Building a local group of youngsters with talent in science and engineering will be critical in supporting Thailand’s continued economic success in moving towards a sustainable future,” said Dr Bicky Bhangu, president ofRolls-Royce – Southeast Asia, Pacific and South Korea, which is sponsoring the festival.
He added that Rolls-Royce has been in Thailand for more than three decades now and has invested extensively in STEM projects and aims to expand access to 25 million people worldwide by 2030.
The event was opened by German Ambassador Schmidt and the Education Ministry’s special adviser to the Office of the Permanent Secretary Duriya Amatavivat. Also present were IPST president Assoc Prof Dr Thiradet Jiarasuksakun, director of the Goethe-Institut Thailand Johannes Hossfeld, president of the National Museum Thailand Asst Prof Dr Rawin Raviwongse and Dr Bhangu from Rolls-Royce among others.
Also contributing to the film festival are the National Science Museum Thailand in cooperation with the SEAMEO Regional Centre for Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics Education (SEAMEO STEM-ED) and Rolls-Royce Southeast Asia as a key partner.
Ratchanok bares teeth – and muscles – ahead of badminton World Tour Finals
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 05, 2022
Thai No 1 Ratchanok Intanon has shown off her toned muscles as she prepares for battle in the World Tour Finals.
Sports fans were wowed by the firm abs on display in photos posted by the badminton star on Friday. Ratchanok’s impressive core strength is usually concealed by the sports attire she wears on the court. But the photos posted on Instagram showed her wearing a crop top that revealed the work she puts in at the gym.
She qualified for the season-ending finale after winning the Super 750 Malaysia Open and securing the runners-up spot at the Super 500 Indonesia Masters.
She also won a bronze medal with the Thailand national team at the Uber Cup.
8 in 10 Thais to follow World Cup, England named as favourite team: Survey
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 05, 2022
More than three-quarters of Thais say they will follow the 2022 FIFA World Cup, with England ranking as their favourite team, according to a KBU Sport Poll survey.
KBU Sport surveyed 1,381 people from November 1-3 for its “World Cup Phenomenon and Thai Society” poll from November 1 to 3.
The tournament kicks off in Qatar on November 20.
Asked whether they were interested in the World Cup, respondents replied as follows:
78.66% were interested
17.03% were undecided
4.31% were not interested
Asked how they would follow the tournament:
46.33% said social media
38.87% said television
8.05% said radio
4.63% said newspapers
1.05% said in Qatar
1.07% – said other methods
Asked which team they will support:
39.57% said England
24.88% said Germany
21.09% said Brazil
9.61% said Argentina
2.74% said Spain
2.11% said other teams
Asked which team would win the tournament:
29.02% said Brazil
27.35% said France
21.68% said England
12.90% said Argentina
6.77% said Spain
2.28% said other teams
Asked how the World Cup phenomenon would affect everyday life in Thailand:
34.60% said more gambling problems
28.11% said more crime
23.88% said stress and anxiety problems
7.33 % said health problems and sleep deprivation
4.00% said career and study-related problems
2.08% said other problems
Japan is the favourite Asian team among Thai fans, who were disappointed when the Thailand national team failed to qualify for the World Cup.
Thais are interested in the tournament because it is the world’s premier showcase of national footballing talent, commented Rattapong Boonyanuwat., director of Kasem Bundit University’s Centre of Innovation for Human Capital Development.
This year, interest in the tournament has risen from the 72.09% of respondents who said they would follow the 2018 World Cup, he added.
However, he said their expectations of tournament-related gambling problems increased significantly.
Respondents also wanted the tournament’s matches to be broadcast live for free, he added. No Thai broadcaster has bought the rights to air World Cup matches with just two weeks remaining before the tournament kicks off.
Guardiola praises Pique after retirement announcement
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 05, 2022
Reuters
Manchester City coach Pep Guardiola praised Gerard Pique after the Barcelona defender announced he will retire from football when LaLiga breaks for the World Cup this month.
Pique, 35, won two Champions League titles under Guardiola at Barcelona.
Pique said in a video posted on social media that Saturday’s league clash with Almeria will be his last at Barcelona’s Camp Nou after 14 years with the Catalan giants following his return from Manchester United in 2008.
Barcelona will travel to Osasuna on Tuesday for their final fixture before the Nov. 20-Dec. 18 World Cup.
“Surprise news. I know his mum and dad, he is an incredible human being, huge personality,” Guardiola said on Friday (November 4). “A player for the big games, never not in the highest level. All the big clubs need these kind of players.
“He won everything for Barcelona and Spain. The time arrives, the future will be bright, he’s a smart guy. An honour to be his manager, we spent an incredible four years together.
Turning to domestic matters Guardiola added that Premier League top goalscorer Erling Haaland is “much better” and could return to action against Fulham on Saturday.
Guardiola did not risk Haaland for City’s Champions League clash with Sevilla in midweek, given they had already sealed top spot in their group, after the Norwegian picked up a knock against former club Borussia Dortmund the previous week.
Haaland, who has taken to the Premier League like a duck to water following his close season move to Manchester, scoring 22 goals across all competitions already, could be given the chance to add to his incredible tally on Saturday.
“He’s much better, we’ll decide today,” Guardiola told a news conference on Friday. “A good step, he starts training today. We see this afternoon. We consider his opinion, the doctor’s opinion, (if he will play) 90 minutes or less minutes, we’ll see.”
The City boss, whose side are two points behind leaders Arsenal ahead of the weekend’s games, said England internationals Kalvin Phillips and Kyle Walker are still not fit to make the matchday squad.
Tottenham Hotspur head coach Antonio Conte questioned on Friday the quality of player welfare and said soccer’s world governing bodies are mainly interested in the notion of “the show must go on”.
Conte called the fixture schedule “crazy”, with the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar sandwiched in the middle of clubs’ seasons during the months of November and December.
“We are seeing that this situation is impossible. It is impossible for the future, and it will be important for the future to understand, because many times I hear about the welfare of the players.” said Conte
“Yeah, but it is only a ‘polite’ way to show that you are really interested in the welfare of the players, because they (the soccer authorities) are not really worried about the welfare of the players if the (soccer) schedule is this and, in every moment, you show that the most important thing is the show must go on.”
“We knew about this situation. I knew that it was crazy to put (hold) the World Cup during the league (seasons) or during the Champions League, during the (club) fixtures. And this type of schedule is really, really crazy. And, honestly, also it is really strange that, in England, we start to play (again just) three days after the final of the World Cup.”
The Italian was also guarded on whether Son Heung-min would be fit for the World Cup, as the South Korea international undergoes surgery to stabilise a fracture around his left eye.
Conte, whose Tottenham side face Liverpool in the English Premier League on Sunday, said the work which his opposite number Jurgen Klopp has done at Anfield “could be a good example for us.”
“I think Jurgen (Klopp) shows that through the work, through the patience, through the transfer market, he improved a lot Liverpool and brought Liverpool at the top of the world. And, for sure, yeah I can only speak well about Liverpool, about Jurgen, about the players of Liverpool. They could be a good example for us.” said about their next opponents Liverpool and their manager Jurgen Klopp
Shuttle buses to be arranged for Queen Sirikit MRT commuters
Russia – Ukraine War
Queen Sirikit National Convention Center (QSNCC) / APEC 2022
APEC 2022 THAILAND
