Showing 1 - 10 of 219
Phuket stands at a tourism crossroads
Oped, Ajaree Tavornmas, Published on 12/03/2026
» Phuket has long stood as one of Asia's most celebrated destinations. Framed by the Andaman Sea, its turquoise waters, rich cultural fabric and globally recognised hospitality have attracted millions of visitors for decades. Tourism accounts for approximately 95% of the province's economy, generating more than 500 billion baht annually from over 14 million Thai and international travellers. With around 1,500 registered hotels and more than 100,000 rooms, the island is undeniably a cornerstone of Thailand's tourism industry.
Poor timing
Oped, Postbag, Published on 12/03/2026
» I was stunned by the airing of American Psycho (unedited version, sic) at 12.15pm on True Visions Channel 228. This movie is only suitable for late-night viewing (parents note) at best, given its horrific and lewd content, although we are assured by film critics that it is a satire of contemporary society. Given ongoing developments, this seems to be true. It's going to get a remake too, God help us.
Bus industry loses 'Jeh Kiew', its leading voice
Oped, Saritdet Marukatat, Published on 24/12/2025
» 2025 was a big loss for all interprovincial bus operators as it was the end of the road for a woman who staunchly protected their business.
Hun Sen's war is his last gasps
News, Patee Sarasin, Published on 22/12/2025
» The artillery shells raining down along the Thai-Cambodian border are not the result of a territorial dispute. Rather, they are the desperate thunder of a dynasty trying to drown out the noise of its own collapse.
Navigating the new realities of global travel
Oped, Anna Kofoed, Published on 12/12/2025
» In our increasingly turbulent world, travelling for many no longer unfolds as a straightforward endeavour.
Thai-Sino ties take new steps
Oped, Zhang Jianwei, Published on 13/11/2025
» In China's diplomacy with neighbouring countries, the friendly relations between China and Thailand have always sparkled. The many "firsts" created in this relationship have vividly demonstrated the special bond of "China and Thailand are as close as one family" as well as a firm belief of the two countries in working hand in hand for common development, bringing great benefits to the people, and setting a shining example of regional cooperation.
Why is North Korea courting Russian tourists?
Oped, Saahil Menon, Published on 13/08/2025
» Hoping to replenish state coffers with much-needed foreign exchange reserves and offset the sharp post-Covid decline in Chinese tour groups, the Hermit Kingdom has set its sights on inquisitive holiday-makers from an ideologically aligned Russia.
Singapore turns 60 with much to show
Oped, Thitinan Pongsudhirak, Published on 08/08/2025
» No country turns 60 like Singapore. In a neighbourhood of political dynasties and varying shades of autocracies and flawed democracies, the little island state of six million got lucky with its strongman rule. When he died in 2015, Singapore's patriarchal founder Lee Kuan Yew left a great country behind. This weekend, Singaporeans can take stock of what's gone by and rightly celebrate its milestone with much to show for.
Thai SMEs are in need of a lifeline
Oped, Dai Kadomae, Published on 07/08/2025
» Thailand's small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are quietly suffering through a credit crunch with far-reaching implications. Despite accounting for over 90% of registered businesses, SMEs are finding it harder than ever to access capital. The economic recovery has been uneven, and traditional lenders -- still cautious after the pandemic -- are reducing risk exposure. But the core issue is not merely liquidity; it is the absence of a national system for reviving viable but stressed firms.
Will Indonesia regret its trade deal with Trump?
Oped, Lili Yan Ing, Published on 23/07/2025
» Be careful what you wish for, lest it come true. That ancient proverb comes to mind when considering the eagerness of America's trade partners around the world to negotiate deals with US President Donald Trump's administration. Four countries already have, with Indonesia the latest to do so -- and possibly the first to regret it.