Category: The Bangkok Post

The previous government’s soft power initiatives are facing calls to be cancelled on grounds of a lack of clear, measurable outcomes and misinterpretation of the concept entirely.

Senator Alongkot Worakee, chair of the Senate Committee on Budget Oversight, called on the government to drop all soft power initiatives. The committee will summon agencies from nearly 12 ministries every Monday until Oct 30 to clarify their budget allocations under the soft power framework.

“Soft power isn’t just Lisa (Blackpink) eating grilled meatballs and posting about it — that’s marketing. What we’re seeing now is just event planning,” Sen Alongkot said, criticising the current approach as superficial and ineffective.

While procurement processes may be legally sound, the underlying concept is flawed.

“We’re spending hundreds of millions on events without any real evaluation. If you organise an OTOP (One Tambon One Product) fair, how do you measure its success? Why isn’t there a central system to assess impact, like a cashier in a department store?” he asked.

The government, Sen Alongkot said, should redirect the budget to more tangible infrastructure, such as building border fences along the Cambodian frontier.

Last year, the soft power scheme received a five-billion-baht budget and included plans to develop festivals and events, such as the Maha Songkran Water Festival.

Sen Alongkot said the failure lies with the previous administration’s misguided incentives. “The entire soft power budget allocation should be scrapped. It’s a waste of public funds,” he said.

As the global shift towards renewable energy accelerates, Thailand continues to emerge as a key player in the region’s clean energy transformation. Building on this momentum, SKYWORTH, a leading global technology group with more than 37 years of expertise in the electronics industry, has expanded beyond smart home appliances and intelligent systems into the renewable energy sector through the launch of SKYWORTH Photovoltaic (SKYWORTH PV). The company now delivers comprehensive solar energy solutions – from modules and inverters to energy storage systems, mounting structures, and EPC services – serving both residential and commercial customers.

Most recently, SKYWORTH PV announced a strategic partnership with Solve System (Thailand), a provider of innovation-driven energy solutions. The two companies have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for a 120MW solar project and a 30MW Solar Home strategic cooperation, reinforcing renewable energy development across the ASEAN region with Thailand as the central hub of operations. This collaboration reflects not only confidence in Thailand’s potential but also the enduring friendship between Thailand and China as both nations work together towards a cleaner, more sustainable future.

Strengthening Bilateral Energy Cooperation

Ms Wanfei Qu, Chief Investment Officer of SKYWORTH Group, Director and CEO of SKYWORTH PV, and President of SKYWORTH Renewable Energy (Thailand) Co., Ltd., highlighted the significance of the partnership: ‘It is my great honour to be here today at this important moment, as China and Thailand celebrate the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations. Over the past five decades, our two countries have built a deep friendship and robust cooperation. I firmly believe that clean energy will be one of the most promising areas for us to move forward together. This partnership is more than a signing – it is a symbol of trust, shared values, and a shared vision. Together with our Thai partners, we will write a new chapter in clean energy cooperation between China and Thailand.’

Through this partnership, SKYWORTH PV will supply solar products, services, and technical support, while Solve System will drive local operations across the region. The collaboration aims to deliver maximum benefits to Thailand by offering clean, affordable, and reliable energy supported by local expertise and efficient installation. It is also expected to boost brand awareness, encourage wider adoption of solar technology, and empower Thai consumers to embrace sustainable living – reducing reliance on the grid, lowering costs, and promoting energy independence.

Expansion and Future Goals

Looking ahead, Ms Qu outlined SKYWORTH PV’s future plans: ‘Over the next three to five years, we plan to expand into larger-scale commercial and industrial projects, integrating advanced energy storage and digital monitoring systems. We are also seeking to strengthen R and D collaboration and extend our presence into neighbouring ASEAN markets. Within the next one to two years, we will pursue additional strategic partnerships and enhance brand awareness through seminars, workshops, and training, enabling households and businesses to embark on their green energy journey with SKYWORTH solar solutions.’

Local Expertise and Long-Term Impact

On behalf of Solve System, Mr Tan Pinthanon, Managing Director of Solve System Group, emphasised the company’s strategic role: ‘Our strength lies in our deep understanding of local and regional markets, supported by well-established distribution channels. With extensive experience in the solar energy sector, we are committed to helping customers access clean energy and achieve true energy independence. Partnering with SKYWORTH – a company with over 37 years of experience, a strong reputation in Asia, and a robust supply chain – creates the perfect synergy to drive Thailand’s solar industry forward.’

Since establishing its Thailand subsidiary earlier this year, SKYWORTH PV has made significant progress in the local market. In July, the company formed strategic partnerships with ICBC (Thailand) and Olympus Capital, supporting cross-border green finance and clean energy investment. The new cooperation with Solve System and Hermis Property marks another milestone in SKYWORTH PV’s efforts to deepen its presence in Thailand and accelerate its localisation and large-scale development strategy – solidifying the company’s continued expansion in the Southeast Asian market.

‘The 120MW project and 30MW Solar Home initiative represent more than just business,’ Mr Tan added. ‘They embody our shared mission to accelerate Thailand’s transition to clean energy. By combining advanced technology with local expertise, we aim to make renewable energy more accessible, reliable, and affordable for all – strengthening energy independence, reducing carbon emissions, and supporting Thailand’s long-term sustainability goals.’

An assistant teacher accused of assaulting a first-grade student with a metal ruler will be reassigned to an inactive post while the investigation continues, authorities said on Sunday.

The transfer was ordered by the director of Lampang Primary Educational Service Area Office 1, following outrage over the incident which left the child with bruises on his face and neck.

Deputy director of Lampang Primary Educational Service Area Office 1, Thanayut Kamphira, along with the principal of Ban Mae Chang School, and social welfare and child protection officials, visited the home of the victim in Mae Mo district to extend their support and gather information about the incident.

The boy, identified as Pot, 7, was struck in the face by the 23-year-old assistant teacher for taking his snacks without permission.

Mr Thanayut said the teacher will be reassigned to Lampang Primary Educational Service Area Office 1, effective on Oct 6. A committee will determine if the teacher’s actions warrant serious administrative sanctions, he added.

“We will be fair to all parties,” he said, acknowledging the emotional toll on the child’s family and pledging stricter oversight to prevent future incidents.

Regarding the assistant teacher’s licence, Mr Thanayut said the matter falls under the Teachers’ Council of Thailand (TCT).

Amonwan Weerathammo, secretary- general of the TCT, said Education Minister Narumon Pinyosinwat expressed concern and instructed the council to act swiftly.

“Violence in schools is unacceptable. Teachers are meant to nurture, not harm,” Ms Narumon said.

The assistant teacher holds a provisional teaching licence issued in May 2023, which is valid until May 2028. The case has been submitted to the Professional Standards Committee for review under the 2025 Code of Ethics.

Ms Amonwan added the committee may suspend the licence pending the results of the investigation. If the school’s administration recommends dismissal, it can proceed without awaiting the committee’s final decision which will follow in due course.

Travel is more than a pastime-it is a way of life for those who see each journey as an opportunity to learn, connect and create lasting memories. This spirit is captured by The 1 to The World, a programme offering members exclusive privileges and seamless convenience worldwide.

Travel is more than a pastime-it is a way of life for those who see each journey as an opportunity to learn, connect and create lasting memories. This spirit is captured by The 1 to The World, a programme offering members exclusive privileges and seamless convenience worldwide.

Among those who embody this global mindset are historian and TV host Dr Wit Sittivaekin, better known as Hia Wit, and his wife, news anchor and foreign affairs expert Veenarat ‘Pei’ Laohapakakul. Together, they are not only partners in life but also ‘partners in thought,’ inspiring others through their shared passion for travel and discovery.

For them, travelling is never just about relaxation-it is a way to create meaningful experiences. Along every journey, The 1 to The World serves as a trusted companion, providing convenience and elevated privileges for members across the globe.

Perfect harmony through global privileges

For Wit and Pei, every trip is a balance of contrasts. ‘Wit loves immersing himself in civilisations and history, while I’m drawn to adventure and nature, though I also enjoy cultural journeys with him. No matter where we go, every trip always ends with shopping, and with The 1 privileges abroad, our experiences become even more special,’ Pei shared.

Wit added: ‘Italy is the perfect example. You can hike in the Dolomites, explore Florence and Venice for culture, and finish in Milan for shopping at Rinascente. What made it even better was the exclusive discounts, earning The 1 points like back home in Thailand, plus extra VIP services. It gave us peace of mind, comfort and made every travel hour truly meaningful.’

Pei recalled their travels in Asia, with Japan as a standout destination: ‘Japan impressed us deeply, with its rich history, breathtaking nature and refined culture. And with The 1 privileges at Daimaru in Osaka, we enjoyed full benefits-discounts, points and VIP services. Whether in Europe or Asia, The 1 makes shopping abroad just as rewarding as at home.’

Shopping as an art of travel

For the couple, shopping is more than a transaction; it is part of the cultural experience. ‘Department stores reflect lifestyles. Rinascente in Milan is stunning with its architecture, KaDeWe in Berlin carries a Northern European flair, and Daimaru in Japan shows meticulous service. Even if they sell similar products, each offers unique experiences and hospitality. As a The 1 Exclusive member, I feel even more taken care of, with extra cashback when spending via Central The 1 Credit Card, plus access to airport lounges worldwide. These privileges make being a The 1 member truly valuable everywhere we go,’ Wit explained.

Pei agreed, highlighting Rinascente’s open ambience and gourmet food floor, as well as Daimaru’s VIP Lounge: ‘Just by showing The 1 Exclusive status, we received discounts, souvenirs and tax refund services without long queues. It was seamless and enjoyable.’

A must-have for every journey

For Wit and Pei, travel is about savouring each moment along the way. Having The 1 to The World privileges has become indispensable, making every trip more convenient, secure and memorable. ‘The first time a staff member abroad asked for my The 1 membership number, it felt like planting the Thai flag overseas,’ Wit recalled with pride. ‘One privilege I never miss is Hotel Delivery-perfect when buying luxury or bulky items. Instead of carrying them, they’re delivered straight to the hotel safely. It saves time and stress.’

Pei added with a smile: ‘The 1 benefits make shopping complete and more enjoyable, from earning points and receiving discounts to special cashback. It adds even more value to every trip.’

Both agree that privileges from The 1, The 1 Exclusive and CENFINITY are not ‘extras’ but essential parts of their international travel.

Dream trips ahead

When asked about dream destinations, Pei said: ‘Italy remains at the top of our list. With its perfect mix of culture, nature and world-class shopping where we can earn points, enjoy benefits and receive VIP treatment, every trip feels rewarding and seamless.’

Wit shared his wish to revisit Germany and Switzerland: ‘The landscapes are breathtaking and the cities unique. I always plan my shopping in advance, whether at KaDeWe, Oberpollinger and Alsterhaus in Germany or Globus in Switzerland. And Hotel Delivery is a must-it makes every journey easier and more special.’

For both, travel is not only about reaching destinations but about treasuring every moment. The 1 to The World is more than a membership; it is a travel companion that brings comfort, confidence and exceptional privileges anywhere in the world.

Elevated Privileges with The 1 to The World

Members of The 1 enjoy exclusive international privileges across Europe and Asia, with point accumulation, discounts and VIP services at world-class department stores such as Rinascente (Italy), KaDeWe (Germany), Globus (Switzerland), Illum (Denmark), Oberpollinger (Germany), Alsterhaus (Germany), de Bijenkorf (Netherlands), Daimaru (Japan), Lotte Duty Free (Korea), The Shilla Duty Free (Korea) and Marina Bay Sands (Singapore).

· The 1 Members: Earn points on every purchase and enjoy 10% discounts on participating items. (e.g., pound 1 = 1 The 1 Point at Rinascente, KaDeWe, Oberpollinger and Alsterhaus; CHF1 = 1 The 1 Point at Globus; DKK8 = 1 The 1 Point at Illum).

· The 1 Exclusive: Receive enhanced benefits including discounts of up to 20%, fast-track tax refunds, hotel delivery, gift wrapping, personal shopping assistants and access to VIP lounges.

· CENFINITY Members: Experience the highest tier of privileges such as private transfers, welcome drinks, tailoring services and beauty treatments.

· Central The 1 Credit Card Members (Black, Black Plus, Luxe): Enjoy up to 15% cashback at participating department stores and access to more than 1,600 premium airport lounges worldwide.

Former prime minister Gen Chavalit Yongchaiyudh is gravely ill, bedridden and unable to speak, according to a close aide.

Chawalit Wichayasut, deputy leader of the Thai Sang Thai Party and former MP for Nakhon Phanom, disclosed on his Facebook page that the 93-year-old retired general is currently being treated at King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital.

Mr Chawalit said the former premier’s family expressed deep gratitude to His Majesty the King for placing Gen Chavalit under royal patronage.

‘I visited Gen Chavalit last week. He is bedridden, has undergone a tracheotomy, is on dialysis and is being fed through a feeding tube. He remains under the close care of doctors,’ Mr Chawalit wrote.

Gen Chavalit served as the country’s 22nd prime minister from November 1996 to November 1997.

The former MP also addressed reports in the media about internal disputes within Gen Chavalit’s family, describing them as a ‘sensitive matter.’ He did not elaborate.

Mr Chawalit urged all sides to cease legal confrontations.

‘I would like to appeal to everyone to stop the conflict and show compassion,” Mr Chawalit said.

Mr Chawalit further responded to commentary on social and broadcast media portraying Gen Chavalit as the prime minister responsible for the 1997 Asian financial meltdown, widely known as the ‘Tom Yum Kung crisis’.

He argued the crisis did not originate during Gen Chavalit’s administration but had been building over several years under preceding governments due to financial liberalisation policies, particularly the Bangkok International Banking Facility (BIBF), which lacked sufficient regulatory oversight.

Australian Wade Ormsby defeated Scott Vincent from Zimbabwe on the first hole of a sudden-death playoff yesterday to win the Jakarta International Championship following one of the closest finishes seen on the Asian Tour this season.

Ormsby triumphed after making a routine par on the par-four 18th, where Vincent found water with his second shot.

Ormsby trailed the frontrunner and playing partner Vincent all day, with a stacked leaderboard meaning the tournament could have been won by a whole host of players. A crucial eight-footer for par on the 18th by Ormsby in regulation play forced the event into overtime. Vincent had left the door open when he made a bogey on 16 and missed a six-foot birdie putt on 17.

Both Ormsby and Vincent shot one-under-par 69s to finished tied on 12-under.

Vincent’s brother Kieran (67) and Mun Do-Yeob (67) from Korea tied for third along with Thailand’s Pavit Tangkamolprasert (68), Poom Saksansin (69) and Sadom Kaewkanjana (69), missing the playoff by one shot.

Kieran Vincent came agonisingly close to making the playoff but also found water on 18 and made a bogey. It’s Ormsby’s fifth victory on the Asian Tour and second on The International Series. His last win came at the International Series Thailand in 2023.

The victory also made up for being penalised one shot after his round on Saturday when he was judged to have accidentally moved his ball when he addressed it on the fourth. He’s also been enduring a poor season with his best being tied 21st at the International Series India.

“It was a bit of a grind,” said Ormsby, who hung in there by making nine straight pars on the back nine. “Probably didn’t have my best stuff out there today, but I was just hanging in there. Feel bad for Scotty, you know, he kind of let a couple slip at the end there. But I hit a couple of great shots in that playoff hole, so that makes me feel better about the whole thing.”

Ormsby moves into fifth place on the Asian Tour Order of Merit and third on The International Series Rankings. Vincent regained the lead over Kazuki Higa on the Merit list after the Japanese finished in a tie for 33rd this week. He also goes top of The International Series Rankings, leapfrogging Lucas Herbert from Australia.

The Asian Tour has a week off now before the Macao Open.

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul is set to preside over the inaugural meeting of the National Disaster Management and Relief Committee (NDMRC) on Monday, as floods continue to threaten many parts of the country.

The committee, which was formed last Tuesday, along with the National Disaster Relief Operations Centre (NDROC), has the job of coordinating, supervising, and integrating disaster relief efforts nationwide.

The move followed Mr Anutin’s visit to flood-hit Bang Ban district in Ayutthaya on Sept 27, where he observed recurring flood problems and inadequate relief efforts.

Following the visit, he ordered the creation of a central mechanism to deliver more effective assistance to citizens affected by floods.

The NDMRC, chaired by Mr Anutin himself, will oversee all phases of disaster management from preparedness, prevention to emergency response and post-crisis rehabilitation.

It also has the authority to direct government agencies, state enterprises, and other organisations in disaster relief operations, and appoint special working groups or experts as needed.

Meanwhile, the NDROC, led by Deputy Prime Minister Sophon Zarum, will serve as the main command and coordination centre for relief operations, covering evacuations, safety measures, essential supplies, and temporary shelters.

The DDPM on Sunday issued a warning about flash floods in several central and northeastern provinces, including Phitsanulok, Ubon Ratchathani, and Ayutthaya, as well as coastal flooding from high tides in 23 coastal provinces, including Bangkok.

The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD), meanwhile, said Typhoon Matmo was gaining strength over the upper South China Sea. The typhoon was expected to make landfall in China’s Guangdong province on Sunday.

While the storm will not enter Thailand, it is strengthening the southwest monsoon, bringing heavier rain and flash flood risks to the North, Northeast, East and South until Tuesday.

Residents in at-risk areas are urged to be on alert for floods.

A book in hand, a cosy corner and the gentle hum of community all around — this is the spirit of “The Commons Reading Party 2025”, which is welcoming readers every third Sunday until Nov 16 at The Commons, Thong Lor.

Designed for anyone who craves both solitude and togetherness, the event reimagines the joy of reading in a communal space where silence feels social and companionship comes without obligation.

Inspired by theWHOLESOME Book Club yet distinctly its own, “The Commons Reading Party 2025” strips away the formality of deadlines, assigned books or structured discussions.

Instead, it celebrates the pure act of reading — your book, your pace, your way. Guests are invited to bring their own book or borrow one from the venue’s selection, find a seat in one of the designated reading zones and simply lose themselves in the pages. Whether you reserve ahead or decide to drop in spontaneously, the experience remains refreshingly easy-going and open to all.

Deeply absorb in a novel, a magazine, or even a digital read on your tablet, while sipping a perfectly brewed Roots coffee while around you, others are equally immersed in their chosen texts. There are no expectations to speak, no interruptions — just a quiet, shared energy that makes the simple act of reading feel surprisingly communal. When was the last time silence felt this social or so inviting?

To launch this new chapter in their cultural programming, The Commons has partnered with Biblio and BKK Lit Fest, ensuring each gathering balances tranquillity with just a hint of conversation.

After 90 minutes of personal reading time, participants are invited to come together on the Top Yard for an optional chat. It’s a lighthearted, organic way to exchange impressions, discover new titles and connect with fellow book lovers without the pressure of a formal book club. Everyone is welcome — whether you’re a lifelong bibliophile or someone who simply wants to carve out time to read in good company.

Joining is effortless. Upon arrival, check in at The Commons booth near the main entrance at the top of the stairs. Each ticket includes a discount card for Roots, making that cup of coffee or tea taste even better as you settle into your reading session. Tickets are priced at 150 baht for early birds and 200 baht for walk-ins and come with a free coaster, bookmark and 40 baht off a Roots drink — small tokens that make the experience feel even more special.

Blackpink’s upcoming ‘Deadline’ concerts in Bangkok are expected to drive full occupancy at hotels near Rajamangala National Stadium, in line with Thailand’s growing ‘gig tripping’ trend, where up to 40% of the crowds attending music events can consist of foreign attendees.

Piti Kuakiatngam, general manager of Alexander Hotel Bangkok, said his 300-room hotel had already gained a 90% occupancy rate during Blackpink World Tour concerts on Oct 24-26, reflecting strong demand among concertgoers.

During periods when large events are held at Rajamangala, hotels located near the venue are able to maintain high room rates without discounting, he said.

Alexander Hotel has also been able to sell its rooms during periods when such events are held at a higher rate than during regular weekdays and weekends. It also reserves a number of rooms for walk-in guests on concert days.

Most of its bookings during the Blackpink concerts derived from foreign markets, such as China, Japan and South Korea.

Mr Piti said concerts and festivals typically benefit hotels located near the location of such events, just as Alexander Hotel had attracted additional bookings from those attending events at Rajamanagala and the Mall Bangkapi.

As a complimentary service for guests, the hotel also provides free shuttle bus services to the stadium before and after the concerts.

Mr Piti said hotels that still have to discount their room rates during Blackpink’s three concerts in Bangkok are those located in the city and downtown, as they are having to offset the sluggish Chinese inbound market.

However, Alexander Hotel still has to maintain diversified segments, including business meetings, weddings and leisure tourists, as the large events that lure an influx of guests do not occur every week.

Gig tripping

Pattaraanong Na Chiangmai, deputy governor of international marketing for Asia and South Pacific at the Tourism Authority of Thailand, said the agency has been supporting various events across the year to boost tourism.

This strategy is meant to respond with the emerging ‘Gig Tripping’ trend, which refers to those travelling to other cities or countries to attend music events and artist meetings.

Mega festivals and concerts are able to attract foreign tourists, which typically account for 30-40% of total attendees, Ms Pattaraanong.

While large events were likely held a few times a year due to the requirement to plan in advance, artist fan meetings can be held several times across the year and generate an economic benefit, despite being at a smaller scale, she said.

She said those joining fan meetings have strong loyalty and high spending power. A total of 10-20% of fan meeting audiences in Thailand consisted of foreigners, she noted.

Apart from purchasing tickets, which are priced relatively high, they also spend on other services during their trips, including hotels, transport, food, souvenirs, and sightseeing at nearby destinations.

The ‘Choo Young Woo Asia Fanmeeting Tour in Bangkok’ last month lured fans from South Korea, Japan, Singapore, Taiwan, Malaysia and China, accounting for 15% of the total audience.

‘Artists and their fans visiting Thailand help reinforce the nation’s image as a preferred destination for regional and global events,’ said Ms Pattaraanong.

Adith Chairattananon, honorary secretary-general of the Association of Thai Travel Agents, said concert and festival tourism is now a global trend with the potential to attract young and niche markets to the host country.

He said that Thai travel agents rarely operate tour groups dedicated for concerts.

Over 90% of travellers in this segment were independent tourists who opt for online travel agents that offer all-inclusive services, such as transportation and hotel rooms.

Direct flights between Thailand and the United States will resume on Oct 26 after being terminated a decade ago over US aviation regulator’s safety concerns.

United Airlines has announced the return of daily flights between Bangkok and Los Angeles from Oct 26 – making it the first carrier from either country to offer a direct connection since 2015.

The downgrade of Thailand’s aviation safety from Category 1 to Category 2 in 2015 by the US Federal Aviation Administration banned direct flights. Hopes for a resumption grew after the US aviation regulator reinstated Thailand in the top category in April this year.

United said direct flights between the Thai capital and the US west coast will stop over in Hong Kong. The airline will operate a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner on the route.

Thai Airways International has no direct flights to US destinations, partly due to strong competition on the cross-Pacific routes.

Former transport minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit said in June he was keen to see the national carrier return to US cities, to boost Suvarnabhumi airport as a hub with a network to all major destinations. However, CEO Chai Eamsiri said the route was not on the Thai airline’s additional destination list.