Category: The Bangkok Post

Nearly six decades after its debut, the Longines Ultra-Chron returns as a timeless emblem of accuracy, innovation, and elegance. First launched in 1967, the Ultra-Chron marked a defining chapter in horological history – the first mass-produced high-frequency wristwatch that forever altered standards of precision. The new Ultra-Chron Classic reimagines this legacy for the modern age, combining over a century of technical expertise with refined aesthetics that honour its mid-century origins.

Drawing direct inspiration from the original 1967 Ultra-Chron and its 1968 Diver sibling – the world’s first high-frequency diver’s watch – the new Classic captures the spirit of both adventure and endurance. Its rebirth reflects Longines’ enduring philosophy: that heritage and progress are not opposites but partners in the pursuit of excellence.

High-Frequency Mastery

Longines’ fascination with high-frequency movements began as early as 1910, when the brand patented a stopwatch capable of measuring to 1/10th of a second. By 1916, it had refined its instruments to 1/100th of a second – a technological leap that revolutionised sports timing and laid the foundation for modern chronometry.

The story continued with the 1959 Calibre 360, developed for observatory competitions, before culminating in the 1967 Ultra-Chron: the first high-frequency calibre to be commercially produced on a large scale. Today, the new Ultra-Chron Classic proudly continues that lineage.

At its heart lies the Longines Calibre L836.6, a self-winding movement oscillating at 36,000 vibrations per hour, or 5 Hz – the very definition of a high-frequency watch. Equipped with a silicon balance spring and anti-magnetic materials offering resistance ten times above the ISO 764 standard, this calibre ensures extraordinary stability and accuracy under real-world conditions. The 52-hour power reserve underscores Longines’ success in marrying endurance with precision.

Certified Excellence

Beyond its technical specifications, the Ultra-Chron Classic distinguishes itself through a full chronometer certification by the Observatoire Chronométrique de Genève, under the authority of the TIMELAB foundation. Unlike conventional testing that examines only the movement, Longines’ certification process evaluates the entire assembled watch for 15 days at varying temperatures and positions – a demanding procedure that guarantees precision across all conditions.

This relentless commitment to accuracy is not mere tradition but a necessity for a brand that has long been synonymous with professional sports timekeeping. From alpine skiing to equestrian events, Longines’ timing technology has measured human achievement with unwavering reliability.

Authenticity in Design

Visually, the Ultra-Chron Classic pays faithful tribute to its 1967 predecessor. The domed silver sunray dial evokes the soft radiance of vintage timepieces, while the applied silver-polished indexes and hands maintain the original’s understated elegance. The trapezoidal date window at 3 o’clock – rendered in a period-correct typeface – provides a nostalgic nod to the past, subtly balanced by enhanced water resistance of 5 bar for modern practicality.

The stainless-steel case, offered in 37 mm and 40 mm, preserves the watch’s graceful proportions, its thickness kept under 11 mm for exceptional comfort. The fine groove pattern of the 1967 bracelet reappears in alternating brushed and polished finishes, culminating in a double-folding clasp with micro-adjustment. Alternatively, a black leather strap with a heritage buckle invites a more classic expression of style.

Heritage Meets Modernity

The rebirth of the Ultra-Chron Classic exemplifies Longines’ vision of progress grounded in authenticity. It is not merely a revival but a refinement – a timepiece that honours the pioneering craftsmanship of its predecessors while embracing today’s technological standards.

In an age defined by fleeting trends, the Ultra-Chron Classic stands as a symbol of enduring precision. Its beating heart – 36,000 vibrations per hour – is more than a technical specification; it is the rhythm of a century-long pursuit of perfection.

As the winged hourglass continues to guide Longines’ journey, the Ultra-Chron Classic reaffirms that true luxury lies in precision, patience, and permanence – values that transcend time itself.

Jemimah Rodrigues hit an unbeaten 127 as India pulled off a record chase of 339 against Australia on Thursday to set up a World Cup final against South Africa.

Rodrigues and skipper Harmanpreet Kaur, who hit 89, put on 167 runs for the third wicket as India won with nine balls and five wickets to spare at DY Patil Stadium, on the outskirts of Mumbai.

The hosts finished on a total of 341-5 in reply to Australia’s impressive 338 and ensured there will be a new name on the 50-over trophy on Sunday.

Amanjot Kaur hit the winning boundary to trigger wild celebrations in the Indian camp, with smiles and tears of joy in the dugout.

“Firstly, I want to thank Jesus, because I couldn’t do this on my own. I know he carried me through today,” said player-of-the-match Rodrigues, a Christian born in Mumbai.

“It was really hard these last four months, but it just feels like a dream and it’s not sunk in yet.

“Towards the end, I was just quoting a scripture from the Bible — to just stand still and that God will fight for me. I just stood there and he fought for me.”

India have twice been World Cup runners-up, in 2005 and 2017.

The hosts topped Australia’s 331-7 against India earlier in the current tournament — which was itself a new record chase for a women’s one-day international.

It meant seven-time champions Australia suffered their first defeat in the ODI World Cup since 2017, when India beat them in the semi-final.

India appeared to be in deep trouble at 59-2 in the 10th over with Shafali Verma (10) and star batter Smriti Mandhana (24) dismissed.

But Rodrigues and Kaur rode out the storm and then took the attack to the opposition in front of a sizeable, partisan crowd.

Dropped chances

A key moment in the game came when Australia captain and wicketkeeper Alyssa Healy dropped Rodrigues when she was on 82.

Annabel Sutherland broke through to dismiss Kaur for 89, with India needing another 113 for victory.

Rodrigues had another reprieve when she was put down by Tahila McGrath on 106 and stayed cool despite Deepti Sharma’s run out for 24 and then Richa Ghosh’s dismissal for 26.

Kaur said she did not “have words to express myself”.

“Feeling great, we’ve been working for so many years,” she said. “It’s an amazing feeling.

Healy said her team had let themselves down.

“Did not finish with the bat well, did not bowl that great, dropped chances in the field,” she said. “But ultimately, outdone in the end.”

Australia earlier elected to bat in overcast conditions and Phoebe Litchfield smashed 119 off 93 balls.

India struck regular blows after a second-wicket partnership of 155 between Litchfield and Ellyse Perry, who made 77 after overturning an early lbw decision.

But Ashleigh Gardner ensured that Australia’s good start did not go to waste, contributing a brisk 63 before a clatter of wickets in the final over.

Spinners Shree Charani and Deepti took two wickets each.

Both teams wore black armbands in memory of 17-year-old Australian cricketer Ben Austin, who died Thursday after being struck with a ball while training in Melbourne.

Consumer Protection Police Division (CPPD) officers and Food and Drug Administration (FDA) personnel have raided four unlicensed herbal inhaler factories producing the popular ‘Hong Thai’ brand and seized over 2.3 million items worth more than 100 million baht.

A combined team of CPPD police and FDA officials searched four locations on Thursday allegedly used for manufacturing and storing herbal inhalers. The team was led by Pol Lt Gen Natthasak Chaowanasai, commissioner of the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB), and Pol Maj Gen Khongkrit Lertsitthikul, CPPD commander.

The operation targeted one house in Bangkok’s Bang Khae district and three factory sites in Krathum Baen district, Samut Sakhon province. The team seized 2,350,000 items of ‘Hong Thai’ brand herbal inhalers and menthol balm products, worth more than 100 million baht, from the four venues for further examination.

The raid followed an investigation into reports of microbial contamination found in herbal inhaler products under the same brand, posing potential health risks to consumers.

CPPD police gathered information and found evidence suggesting that the products might have been secretly manufactured at unauthorised locations, separate from the site registered with the FDA.

Preliminary findings indicated that the herbal inhalers were originally licensed for production at a facility in Bang Phai area of Bang Khae district. However, the manufacturer had since expanded operations to additional sites without FDA approval.

Police said the operators may face charges of producing and selling counterfeit herbal products and manufacturing herbal products without a licence.

All items have been confiscated as evidence, while investigators from the CPPD’s sub-division 4 would proceed with legal action against all those involved.

Singapore and Thailand praised the strength of their partnership while feting the 60th anniversary of the island state’s independence as well as the 60th year of bilateral ties.

At the ‘SG60 Gala Dinner’, hosted by the Singapore-Thai Chamber of Commerce (STCC) on Thursday night, business and diplomatic leaders from both sides stressed how their relationship was based on a solid foundation.

‘Indeed, our relationship is one of enduring friendship and a model of regional cooperation,’ said Singapore’s Robin Loh, STCC chairman.

The STCC has long been supporting investors and entrepreneurs in fostering collaborations under the mission of promoting growth through integrity, inclusivity, and respect, he said.

For example, United Overseas Bank (UOB), a leading Singaporean bank that first established its presence in Thailand in 1999, had been a major contributor to the Thai economy by assisting businesses of both nations to navigate various opportunities, Mr Loh noted.

He explained that through its foreign direct investment advisory and regional network, UOB has channeled over 50 billion baht in investments and supported more than 300 enterprises in high-tech, EV, renewable, and other advanced sectors aligned with Thailand’s priority industries.

Ambassador to Thailand Catherine Wong said the theme of this commemorative year is ‘Singapore-Thailand: Realising Opportunities for New Growth’ or ‘Strong at 60′ which reflects their complementary strength while calling for a future-oriented partnership.

Ms Wong said the relationship has only strengthened over time with Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong paying an official visit in November 2024, just a few month after he took office.

Bilateral trade has now hit US$44.5 billion (1.44 trillion baht), up 6.4% year-on-year.

They have also pioneered the world’s first real-time digital payment link between Singapore’s PayNow and Thailand’s Promptpay to promote cross-border e-commerce.

Comprising over 250 members from various sectors, the STCC has played an important role in promoting opportunities in both markets, broadened members’ networks, and kept businesses abreast of key regulatory and industry developments, Ms Wong said.

“As we look ahead to the next 60 years and beyond of Singapore-Thailand relations, let us continue to work with partners to deliver outcomes that benefit our peoples,,” she added.

Sasirit Tangulrat, deputy permanent secretary of the Thai Foreign Affairs Ministry, highlighted their close cooperation in a number of fields.

Singapore has consistently been one of Thailand’s top trading partners in terms of trade volume and is among the largest sources of foreign direct investment.

‘As we embrace the future, Thailand and Singapore are well positioned to realise new opportunities for growth in various areas, especially green technologies, digital trade, and innovation ecosystem, as trusted partners and as fellow members of our Asean family,’ she said.

Spinal cord injury (SCI) remains one of the most devastating medical conditions, with no definitive cure to alleviate its lifelong consequences. For many patients, a split-second accident leads to permanent paralysis and a lifetime of physical limitation, medical dependence and emotional struggle.

In 2019, Grégoire Courtine received a Rolex Award for his idea to create a spinal implant that could connect to the wearer’s brain via a “Digital Bridge”. This technology enabled an individual with chronic tetraplegia to stand and walk naturally for the first time.

The breakthrough has placed neuroscience pioneers Courtine and Jocelyne Bloch at the centre of global attention as they continue their mission to transform the lives of people living with paralysis. Courtine even received a Rolex Award for his idea.

The Laureate of Precision

Courtine, the sole Laureate of the Rolex Awards in neuroscience, has dedicated more than two decades to understanding and repairing the injured spinal cord. Recognised for his unwavering perseverance in groundbreaking science, he and Bloch have advanced therapies once thought impossible.

In an interview with the Bangkok Post, Courtine reflected on his journey: “My commitment to SCI patients began when I was 27. I realised that after an accident lasting just a few seconds, you may never walk again. That moment shaped my life’s work.”

Bloch added: “Every innovation is a step forward. The goal is to restore natural movement and independence for patients who have lost so much.”

From Laboratory to Human Application

The digital bridge builds on earlier research into Epidural Electrical Stimulation (EES) — an implant that delivers electrical pulses to the spinal cord below the site of injury, stimulating dormant neural circuits.

Courtine and his research team first tested the therapy in animal models in 2012. In one landmark experiment, they enabled a paralysed rat to walk voluntarily by combining drug therapy, targeted electrical stimulation of the lower spinal cord, robotic-assisted support and even a small chocolate reward as motivation.

Bloch later took the decisive step of transferring the technology from the laboratory to clinical use.

“It took us four years to achieve the first therapy in a patient,” she explained. “There was no precedent, no existing technology to follow. Every stage presented new challenges.”

In 2017, Bloch implanted the technology in a Dutch patient, Gert-Jan Oskam, who had been paralysed in a cycling accident in 2011. Initially fitted with EES alone, Oskam regained partial movement. The next leap came with the introduction of the “Digital Bridge” — two implants, one in the brain region controlling leg movement and the other in the spinal cord, linked through artificial intelligence.

The system detects brain signals when a patient intends to move, translating them into spinal stimulation that triggers natural motion.

“He has made extraordinary progress,” Bloch noted. “The brain-spine interface has given him greater independence, and today we have three other patients working on walking, and two focused on upper limb movement.”

Building Momentum and Overcoming Barriers

The journey from a laboratory concept to human therapy has required collaboration, resilience and substantial resources. Grégoire Courtine and Jocelyne Bloch partnered with Medtronic, a global leader in healthcare technology, and later co-founded NeuroRestore, a Swiss research and innovation centre.

Even with these milestones, significant obstacles remain.

“We face regulatory scrutiny, ethical considerations and the need to convince stakeholders,” Courtine said. “Another key challenge is finding patients willing to participate and building teams that share our vision.”

The Rolex Award, he added, has been pivotal: “It confirmed that our work aligns with precision — Swiss precision and high technology. The visibility helps attract support and inspires new collaborations.”

Beyond Walking: Expanding Possibilities

The potential of the “Digital Bridge” extends far beyond walking. Current trials are exploring its use in regulating blood pressure, a critical issue for tetraplegic patients vulnerable to hypotension and fainting.

“We have 16 participants implanted so far, including 11 in blood pressure regulation studies,” Bloch said.

The research also shows promise for patients with Parkinson’s disease, with four individuals implanted to improve their stability and mobility. Among them is 62-year-old Frenchman Marc Gautier, whose Parkinson’s disease had prevented him from walking. Through targeted epidural stimulation of the spinal cord, his motor function and balance have improved significantly.

Bloch and Courtine were able to correct movement problems associated with the condition — including gait disturbances, balance issues and freezing episodes while walking. Gautier, from Bordeaux, can now climb stairs, use a lift, stand up unaided and walk independently in a shop after living with Parkinson’s for 30 years. Bloch and Courtine launched a start-up company called ONWARD, dedicated to making this therapy widely accessible for treating mobility problems in people with Parkinson’s.

“We are beginning to apply the concept to upper limbs, hands and bladder control — functions vital for daily independence,” Bloch added.

The Human Dimension

Behind the science lies a deeply human motivation. SCI patients often endure more than physical loss — facing diminished quality of life, financial hardship and long-term dependence on medical care.

“A spinal cord injury leads to greater health loss, more limitations and higher medical costs,” Courtine explained. “It impacts the ability to work and to live fully.”

For patients such as Oskam, every regained movement symbolises freedom.

“Having the possibility to change this paradigm was very exciting,” Bloch said. “Every step shows us it is possible to transform failure into success.”

Looking Ahead

The technology has not yet been commercialised, and continued financial support remains essential to scale access globally.

“That is our goal,” Courtine stressed. “To make sure dozens, and eventually thousands, of people can benefit.”

The work continues with renewed urgency. Oskam was scheduled to undergo further surgery last month to test an updated version of the technology.

“We are halfway,” Bloch reflected. “But each step forward confirms the path.”

Rolex, for more than four decades through the Rolex Awards, has supported exceptional individuals who have the courage and conviction to take on major challenges and initiate extraordinary projects that make the world a better place.

The support given to 160 Rolex Award winners since 1976 has had a catalytic impact and in many cases transformed lives and communities. It has also stimulated new ways of thinking about common problems in areas as diverse as creating technologies that improve lives, saving endangered ecosystems, protecting the oceans, exploring new frontiers on the planet, or pioneering advances in science and health.

For Courtine and Bloch, this support fuels their determination to transform lives. Their neuroscience discovery is opening new pathways and encouraging a shift in spinal cord injury treatment — from focusing solely on surgical interventions to integrating neuroscience-based approaches that harness the brain’s innate capacity to modulate pain.

There is a growing emphasis on therapies that activate the brain’s intrinsic pain-regulating mechanisms. Approaches such as brain stimulation, cognitive behavioural therapy and other neuromodulatory techniques are increasingly integrated into treatment plans worldwide to deliver comprehensive pain management and improve patient outcomes.

“Science takes time, but progress is inevitable,” Courtine concluded. “With collaboration and perseverance, we are building bridges — digital bridges — to restore dignity and independence to people living with paralysis.”

Thailand is securing long-term public health resilience and vaccine security while fostering partnerships in South Korea’s biomedical sector, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul says.

The premier yesterday held talks with Ahn Jaeyong, CEO of SK bioscience Co Ltd, and Chey Tae-won, chairman of SK Group, at the Commodore Gyeongju Hotel, South Korea, said government spokesman Siripong Angkasakulkiat.

During the meeting, Mr Anutin recalled that during his tenure as public health minister in 2022, he had begun discussing a collaboration between the Government Pharmaceutical Organisation (GPO), the National Vaccine Institute (NVI) and SK bioscience, Mr Siripong said.

Thailand is looking to reinforce vaccine security and reduce dependence on foreign suppliers by promoting the country’s self-sufficiency in vaccine production, particularly elevating the GPO’s manufacturing capacity and ensuring that locally produced vaccines are affordable and widely accessible, he said.

To prepare for future public health crises, Thailand is looking to develop key vaccines, he said.

The prime minister anticipated that the collaboration between the GPO and SK bioscience would allow Thailand to produce vaccines within 100 days of a disease outbreak, the government spokesman said.

This would help lower vaccine costs and give people, especially elderly people, those with underlying diseases and pregnant women, timely access to critical medicine, he said.

SK bioscience’s CEO, meanwhile, expressed confidence that a joint venture with the GPO would facilitate technology transfer and vaccine production knowledge, Mr Siripong said.

Mr Ahn said he believed it would help Thailand achieve its production goals, Mr Siripong added.

He also thanked Mr Anutin for his suggestion in expanding vaccine development to strengthen both national and regional vaccine security, Mr Siripong noted.

Founded in 2005, SK bioscience is headquartered in Seongnam-si city of Gyeonggi-do and operates two main facilities: the Pangyo R and D Centre and the Andong L-HOUSE vaccine plant, which meets EU-GMP international standards, Mr Siripong said.

The company produces key vaccines, certified by the World Health Organization, for influenza, chickenpox, shingles and typhoid, he said.

SK bioscience also serves as a contract development and manufacturing organisation and contract manufacturing organisation for other companies, he noted.

Julapun Amornvivat, a former deputy finance minister, has been elected as the new Pheu Thai Party leader, securing 354 out of 369 votes, with 15 abstentions.

The meeting, chaired by acting party leader Chusak Sirinil, was convened on Friday at Pheu Thai’s headquarters in Bangkok to elect a new executive committee and a candidate selection committee for future general elections.

Mr Julapun, a Chiang Mai MP, becomes the ninth leader of Pheu Thai, receiving 354 votes in his favour, with 15 abstentions.

He replaces former prime minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, Thaksin Shinawatra’s youngest daughter, who recently stepped down to pave the way for a major party shake-up aimed at restoring public confidence and boosting the party’s popularity ahead of the upcoming general election scheduled for March 29 next year.

Ms Paetongtarn also attended the party’s general assembly.

Mr Julapun, 50, thanked his party members for entrusting him and the new 29-member executive committee with the responsibility of steering the party forward. He described the appointment as the greatest honour of his political career.

‘I have been with Pheu Thai since the Thai Rak Thai era, and over the past 25 years, I’ve worked alongside this political movement through both triumphs and challenges,” Mr Julapun said. “It has never been a path paved with roses, but we have endured.’

He pledged to overhaul the party, starting with improving communication with the public and ensuring swift, transparent messaging. He also emphasised the importance of selecting high-quality MP candidates who reflect the needs and aspirations of the people.

‘Our policies must directly address the concerns of the public. It is not an easy task, but I believe that with the support of our members and the tens of millions of people who stand behind us, Pheu Thai can win the next election and return to government,’ said the new party leader.

Mr Julapun holds a bachelor’s degree in economics from Chulalongkorn University and a master’s degree in business administration (MBA) from Boston College, USA.

He previously served as deputy finance minister under the Srettha Thavisin and Paetongtarn administrations between 2023 and 2025. From 2021 to 2025, he also served as Pheu Thai deputy leader.

The new Pheu Thai leader, who is the son of veteran politician Sompong Amornvivat, has been elected as an MP for Chiang Mai for five consecutive terms since 2005, initially under the now-defunct Thai Rak Thai Party, then the People Power Party and later Pheu Thai.

During the general assembly, veteran politician Prasert Jantararuangtong was appointed party secretary-general, while Suksit Srichomkwan was named party spokesperson.

On Nov 1, some 1000 activists from around the world will gather in Bangkok for “International Civil Society Week 2025 (ICSW)”, which will be held until Nov 5.

The world’s largest civil society gathering begins Saturday 1 November in Bangkok, Thailand, co-hosted by global civil society alliance Civicus and the Asia Democracy Network (ADN). The five-day event includes more than 120 sessions and cultural events led by more than 75 organisations from around the world.

ICSW 2025 takes place at a time when civic freedoms are being curtailed in most countries, with civil society under severe attack in 116 of 198 countries and territories and significant attacks on freedoms of expression, association and assembly. Under the theme “Celebrating citizen action: reimagining democracy, rights and inclusion for today’s world”, ICSW 2025 will provide an open space for civil society organisations, activists, human rights defenders, journalists, academics, labour organisers and allies for discussion, collaboration, innovation and action.

Participants in the week’s events include some of the world’s largest international civil society organisations like Oxfam and Amnesty International, as well as many grassroots organisations from across the globe. Topics for discussion range from climate justice to disability rights to artificial intelligence to protecting democracy, protest and freedom of expression.

This year’s events are the first to take place in Thailand. Sessions will take place at Thammasat University’s Tha Prachan Campus, while Bangkok’s Mahidol University will host the Youth Assembly. To highlight the vital role of free, independent journalism in safeguarding civic space, this year, Civicus and ADN have launched a new Journalism Fellowship bringing journalists from 16 countries to Bangkok.

Political activist Sonthiya Sawasdee is pressing for a money-laundering investigation into the Gun Jompalang Chuai Su Foundation and its alleged involvement with a government lottery quota of 200,000 tickets.

In a petition filed on Friday with the Anti-Money Laundering Office (Amlo), Mr Sonthiya argued that the arrangement may constitute money laundering and unfairly benefit the wealthy at the expense of ordinary citizens.

He said the foundation was registered on Feb 5, and the public has been led to believe that social activist Guntouch ‘Gun Jompalang’ Pongpaiboonwet, who has more than 9 million followers on Facebook, holds an executive role in it.

Though his name has been used for fundraising and promotional activities, Mr Guntouch has admitted he was not a chairman or board member of the foundation.

Mr Sonthiya also pointed to Article 39 of the foundation’s charter, which stated that if it is dissolved, its assets would be transferred to the Thamanat Prompow Foundation, run by Agriculture Minister Thamanat Prompow.

Thamanat and Mr Guntouch have collaborated frequently on relief projects and the activist even had access to a government helicopter used by the ministry.

Mr Guntouch and members of his foundation last week held a news conference to clarify its status, saying the decision to name the Thamanat foundation as a beneficiary was made in haste and had been rescinded. A new foundation has been named as a beneficiary but its name was not disclosed.

The activist also pledged to ensure more transparency in the accounting of the foundation, which has taken in more than 200 million baht in public donations.

Mr Sonthiya urged the Amlo to find out if donations from citizens are transparently managed.

He further questioned reports that the foundation receives a special lottery quota of 200,000 tickets per draw, a privilege far exceeding the allocations given to small vendors and disabled individuals.

Many poor and disabled sellers cannot even access quotas of 2,000 tickets, he said, while some wealthy influential figures make profits by reselling tickets at inflated prices.

He demanded that the Amlo summon both the director of the Government Lottery Office (GLO) and the chairperson of the Thamanat Prompow Foundation for questioning.

Mr Sonthiya said he would also ask the police Central Investigation Bureau to conduct a parallel criminal investigation.

As financial literacy becomes an increasingly vital life skill for Thailand’s younger generations, a new collaboration is setting out to make learning about money both engaging and accessible. The Money Coach, led by renowned financial educator Mr Jakkapong Mespan, also known as ‘Coach Noom’, has partnered with Sea (Thailand)-a leading internet platform provider encompassing Shopee, Garena, and Monee-to launch Money for Teen, a free online financial course designed for secondary-level students and above. Tailored to today’s digital-native learners, the programme features eight practical and comprehensive modules that help students, parents, and educators nationwide build essential money management skills while laying the groundwork for integration into Thailand’s compulsory education system.

The Money for Teen was conceptualised and developed by The Money Coach with the support of Sea (Thailand). The course is designed for students, parents, and teachers to learn and use as a practical tool for teaching financial literacy in a structured way, helping learners understand key concepts in money management and financial planning for the future. The course covers eight core financial concepts, namely, Money Mindsets, Money Spending, Money Budgeting, Money Earning, Money Saving, Money Investing, Money Protection, and Money Goals.

Mr Jakkapong Mespan, also known as ‘Coach Noom’ or The Money Coach, said, ‘Through years of providing financial advice to Thai people, we found the main challenges still revolve around cash flow problems and debt burdens. This reflects a ‘repairing’ approach, which focuses on fixing issues only after they arise but doesn’t lead to lasting solutions. That insight inspired us to shift toward a ‘building’ approach instead, which focuses on creating sustainable financial immunity for Thais from the start. This led to the development of the ‘Money for Teen’ online course, designed to instil financial literacy among secondary school students who begin to form their own perspectives and are ready to learn practical money management skills. The Money for Teen course is also designed to connect with real-life experiences and to help learners set clear financial goals through a 3C learning process: Case, Content, and Challenge – starting with real-life case studies, leading into key learning materials, and concluding with activities or quizzes that encourage learners to think, analyse, and make their own financial decisions, which are considered the foundation of financial literacy.’

Since its launch on 22 August 2025, more than 5,700 learners have enrolled in the Money for Teen course via www.moneycoach.co.th, reflecting the growing demand for financial education among Thailand’s younger generations. The course will also be available on www.SeaAcademy.co to further expand accessibility.

Mrs Puttawan Suphataranant, Corporate Communications Director, Sea (Thailand) emphasised, ‘Financial literacy is a vital life skill that should be nurtured from an early age, forming a crucial foundation for future financial stability. Sea (Thailand) remains committed to promoting financial literacy through accessible and engaging learning tools. Previously, the company introduced the Wishlist Financial Board Game to help young people explore personal finance in a creative and effective way. Building on that success, Sea has collaborated with The Money Coach to launch Money for Teen – a course that makes financial education fun, easy to understand, and practical, with applications both in classrooms and at home. The programme also encourages financial conversations within families while equipping young people with critical thinking, decision-making skills, and a strong financial foundation essential for thriving in a resilient society.’

Money for Teen is not only designed as a learning tool for teenagers but also serves as a vital bridge connecting young people with parents and teachers. It can be effectively utilised for instruction both at home and in schools, helping to instil essential financial literacy and life skills in the next generation. At the same time, it creates valuable opportunities for families to learn and discuss money matters openly, while providing schools with a safe and constructive space for creative and sustainable financial education.”

The launch event of Money for Teen also featured a panel discussion titled ‘Financial Lessons Start Young’, which brought together experts from various sectors to exchange insights on promoting financial literacy within families and expanding the course’s reach to educational institutions nationwide. The panel included Mr Jakkapong Mespan, ‘Coach Noom’; Mrs Puttawan Suphataranant, Corporate Communications Director at Sea (Thailand); Dr Ketthip Suphavanich, Director-General of the Department of Learning Encouragement; Miss Jaroonsri Jabthaisong, Deputy Director of the Bureau of Academic Affairs and Educational Standards, Office of the Basic Education Commission; and special guest influencer Belle – Yupaporn Littiyarn (popularly known as Chujai’s mother), who shared her personal experiences in teaching children about financial concepts.

Dr Ketthip Suphavanich, Director-General of the Department of Learning Encouragement, said, ‘Learning personal financial management from a young age forms a crucial foundation for a quality life. Children who understand the value of money will grow into responsible adults capable of planning and making sound financial decisions. Promoting the Money for Teen course therefore goes beyond simply teaching children about saving and spending; it is about developing financial intelligence as a lifelong skill, enabling them to thrive confidently in the modern world and live happily within a society grounded in moral principles.’

Miss Jaroonsri Jabthaisong, Deputy Director of the Bureau of Academic Affairs and Educational Standards, Office of the Basic Education Commission (OBEC), added, ‘Financial skills not only empower young people to manage their lives effectively but also contribute to long-term economic stability. The Money for Teen course serves as a seed of financial knowledge, helping students learn about money from an early age and build a stable, sustainable financial plan for the future. OBEC plans to expand this course to schools nationwide, encouraging teachers to integrate it into existing subjects or develop it as part of life skills activities, depending on each school’s focus and interests. This approach aims to help students think critically, analyse situations, and apply their knowledge in real life. We believe that instilling financial literacy from an early age is key to building sustainable financial immunity and laying the foundation for a financially disciplined Thai society in the future.’

Sea (Thailand) and The Money Coach also plan to collaborate with the government sector to expand the Money for Teen curriculum nationwide, beginning with a pilot programme in 10 schools under the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration. Discussions are currently under way with the Office of the Basic Education Commission (OBEC) to extend the programme to schools across all regions of Thailand. Furthermore, an advanced financial course is set to launch in March 2026 for high school students, covering five key topics – credit and loans, investment fundamentals, entrepreneurship, income tax, and risk management – to further deepen their financial knowledge.

Money for Teen not only strengthens the financial capabilities of the next generation but also plays a vital role in building a stable foundation for the future, contributing positively to Thailand’s long-term economic resilience.