Showing 1 - 10 of 390
Rein in Gun's influence
Oped, Editorial, Published on 03/04/2026
» Influencer Guntouch "Gun" Pongpaiboonwet needs little introduction. Rising from being a noodle seller, he built his reputation through philanthropic activities -- fundraising, providing aid, and rescuing victims -- roles that also highlight systemic flaws in Thailand's bureaucracy.
A plaintive song for the taxman
Roger Crutchley, Published on 29/03/2026
» I've just got back from filing my income tax and must thank the staff at the branch of the Revenue Department for their helpfulness and efficiency. It must be a thankless job knowing that nearly everyone they deal with would probably rather be somewhere else.
Trump shows China how to handle Taiwan
News, Brahma Chellaney, Published on 17/03/2026
» Since returning to office last year, US President Donald Trump has ordered military strikes from the Caribbean and eastern Pacific to Africa and the Middle East, targeting alleged drug-smuggling boats and suspected terrorist groups. He has attacked Venezuela and kidnapped its leader. And he has joined Israel in a large-scale assault on Iran. Meanwhile, he is tightening a noose around Cuba, in the hope that the resulting humanitarian crisis will open the way for a "friendly takeover" of the island by the United States.
A good time to hail Caesar Salad
Roger Crutchley, Published on 15/03/2026
» For anyone planning on doing something important today and who might be just a little superstitious, it may be a good idea to stay at home and play with the dog. It is the 15th day of the month, perhaps better known in Roman times as the "Ides of March" which marks the anniversary of the assassination of Julius Caesar in 44 BC.
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.
Shoddy massages
Oped, Postbag, Published on 06/03/2026
» Re: "Thai massage industry set for overhaul", (BP, March 4). I'm looking forward to the day the Thais will finally upgrade and greatly improve the massage industry in this country. It is indeed in a dire state. I'm a fully qualified masseur with three diplomas from the world-renowned Wat Po school, two of them specialist courses. Very proud of it.
Elephant dies for no good reason
Editorial, Published on 01/03/2026
» A wild bull elephant known as Hu Pab died from over-sedation. The tragedy was not an accident, but a failure of a wildlife policy that demands urgent reform.
Fix Thailand's data confusion
Oped, Jompon Pitaksantayothin, Published on 20/02/2026
» Thailand has made significant strides in building a data governance framework, most notably through the Personal Data Protection Act (PDPA) 2019. Data now underpins how citizens exercise their rights, how governments deliver services, how businesses innovate, and ultimately, how democracy is sustained.
AI 'partners' reshaping hospitals
News, Watcharin Ariyaprakai, Published on 17/02/2026
» Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer a distant innovation confined to technology firms. It is quietly entering hospitals, medical schools and administrative offices. What appears today as a productivity tool may in fact represent a structural shift in how healthcare operates.
Corruption keeps getting worse
Editorial, Published on 15/02/2026
» Everyone knows corruption in Thailand is bad, but few realise how bad. By global standards, Thailand is slipping into the bottom tier.