Showing 1 - 7 of 7
Heatwave boon for beverage makers
Business, Nareerat Wiriyapong, Published on 18/04/2026
» Hotter and drier weather than usual, as the global climate shifts towards El Niño, is benefiting Thai beverage makers, even as they face cost pressures from prolonged geopolitical conflicts in the Middle East, analysts say.
Safe, healthy travel a priority
Asia focus, Nareerat Wiriyapong, Published on 11/04/2022
» The hearts of all Thais are blessed and looking forward to Wednesday when the five-day Songkran holiday begins. It will be the first time in three years for us to celebrate the traditional New Year known for joyous water splashing at the hottest time of the year.
Tourism revival in doubt again
Asia focus, Nareerat Wiriyapong, Published on 19/04/2021
» Most of Thailand's famous holiday destinations were nearly empty last week during the long Songkran holiday. The latest Covid-19 wave -- with daily infections climbing all week and hitting a record 1,582 on Friday -- scared tourists away from popular beach resorts close to Bangkok such as Pattaya, Cha-am and Hua Hin, which has also become a coronavirus hotspot following a superspreader event at a local pub.
Our unhealthy holiday
Asia focus, Nareerat Wiriyapong, Published on 12/04/2021
» Many Thais have hit the road to enjoy the long Songkran holidays this week, but I can't help feeling that this Thai New Year will be a weird one. Normally, people enjoy the water festival that comes at the peak of the hot summer in April by splashing each other with enthusiasm, along with more subdued observances such as pouring water on elders' hands, asking for blessings and making merit.
Creative approaches to ageing
Asia focus, Nareerat Wiriyapong, Published on 18/11/2019
» Across Asia, countries are coming to grips with demographic changes and seeking to improve the lives of their growing elderly populations. Japan, where the proportion of people aged 65 years and older is projected to rise from 28% now to 38% by 2050, is providing support to companies that retain older employees, as well as health, housing and mobility investments in response to emerging needs.
Choose safety over selfies
Asia focus, Nareerat Wiriyapong, Published on 21/10/2019
» During my most recent visit to Ho Chi Minh City, I was captivated by the sight of an old apartment building that had been converted into a fantastic collection of restaurants, coffee shops, co-working spaces and a bookshop.
Infrastructure setback in Indonesia
Asia focus, Nareerat Wiriyapong, Published on 26/02/2018
» Indonesian President Joko Widodo is facing a major setback after suspending construction of elevated toll roads and railway tracks following a string of recent construction accidents.