Showing 11 - 19 of 19
Farmers hope for fair shake with paper plant
Spectrum, Tunya Sukpanich, Published on 14/10/2012
» Sa paper items are ubiquitous in northern handicraft shops, where the rough parchment is used in everything from the region's distinctive paper umbrellas to paintings, calligraphy and other hand-crafted decorative items.
In imperfect harmony
Spectrum, Tunya Sukpanich, Published on 26/08/2012
» Buddhism has a long history of forest meditation. The setting provides a tranquil and fitting environment for the contemplation of dhamma and man's relationship with nature.
New trawler rules leave angry wake
Spectrum, Tunya Sukpanich, Published on 05/08/2012
» Three years ago the European Union's drive to bring more accountability to the Thai fishing industry seemed like a sensible solution to curtailing illegal fishing and ensuring viable fish stocks. But today, the situation is mired in controversy with thousands of small-scale fishermen in Thailand lining up against new regulations proposed by the Fisheries Department that are intended to bring the trawlers under control.
Clean needles mean less damage done
Spectrum, Tunya Sukpanich, Published on 08/07/2012
» Providing clean needles and syringes to intravenous drug users is a proven way to slow the spread of HIV infection. It's the cornerstone of an approach known as harm reduction that has had success around the world.
Women's fund will result in more debt than development, say critics
Spectrum, Tunya Sukpanich, Published on 01/04/2012
» It was one of the Pheu Thai Party's flagship policies _ a massive 7.7 billion baht National Development Fund for Women, ostensibly to redress gender inequality. In practice, however, the fund has become a lightning rod for controversy with critics contending that its aims are too vague, its management not transparent, registration requirements too onerous and that it is more likely to result in crippling debt for women than greater opportunities. They also question whether the move is merely a Pheu Thai tactic to reward and bolster support in rural areas.
Regional unity 'lies in sharing languages'
Spectrum, Tunya Sukpanich, Published on 11/03/2012
» There has been a great deal said about the need to improve English-language skills ahead of the formation of the Asean Economic Community in 2015, but much less emphasis is put on communication between members in their native languages. While English is indispensable as a common international language, a multilingual approach also has clear advantages for building regional understanding and relations.
Are zoos cashing in on tiger trade?
Spectrum, Tunya Sukpanich, Published on 26/02/2012
» Trade and trafficking in tigers and tiger parts in Thailand drew international attention following the seizure of 400kg of tiger meat and carcasses in Bangkok's Khlong Sam Wa district earlier this month. It's remained a thorny issue in Thailand despite global efforts to save the animals from extinction.
Salvaging a Buddhist sanctuary
Spectrum, Tunya Sukpanich, Published on 05/02/2012
» A mong the major casualties of the recent floods was the 2,500-rai Buddhamonthon ("Buddhist park") religious park in Nakhon Pathom province. Today the park scarcely resembles the former green spiritual and recreational sanctuary in the shadow of Bangkok. The meticulously landscaped lawns are now covered with a thick layer of dried brown leaves and dead branches from trees and shrubs killed or severely shocked by the floodwaters that covered the park grounds for weeks. Many big trees were uprooted and still lie where they fell.
Living over troubled waters
Spectrum, Tunya Sukpanich, Published on 01/01/2012
» Obstructions along canals in Bangkok and nearby provinces are commonly cited as a major factor behind this year's flood disaster. However, clearing them has proved a thorny issue for authorities as it means not only removing debris and sediment, but also tearing down people's makeshift homes.