Showing 1 - 10 of 50
Reinvent Thailand to revive growth
Oped, Boonwara Sumano, Published on 11/02/2026
» In the 1990s, Thailand ranked second in Asean for state performance, behind only Singapore. Today, we trail several neighbours. This decline has unfolded gradually over three decades -- through repeated economic crises, institutional stagnation, and reforms that never quite went far enough. What is different today is that the cost of inaction has become far more dangerous.
'Land bridge' will harm nature
Oped, Kitichate Sridith, Published on 31/12/2025
» The end of 2025 brought Thais the good news that one of the world's most endangered felines -- the flat-headed cat -- has not gone extinct in our nation, as had long been feared. But our natural heritage is under relentless pressure. We need to treat our habitats, flora and fauna as assets that demand science-led protection.
Keeping universal healthcare strong
Oped, Amanee Hamu, Thongchai Napim, Manatchaya Chuyingsakultip & Kullaporn Unnanon, Published on 24/09/2025
» For 23 years, Thailand's universal healthcare scheme, better known as the "gold card", has protected millions from financial ruin, a remarkable achievement that has earned worldwide praise. Yet, the system is not perfect.
Floods 'a recurring nightmare'
Oped, George G van der Meulen & Chamniern Vorratnchaiphan, Published on 16/09/2025
» Thailand has faced floods for more than a century. Some years are worse than others, but the pattern is consistent. The catastrophic 2011 floods remain the most painful reminder: according to the World Bank, they caused US$46.5 billion (1.5 trillion baht) in economic losses, displaced 13 million people, and claimed approximately 800 lives. Much of the country's industrial heartland was submerged for months, severely impacting global supply chains.
Early-onset cancer shift
News, Editorial, Published on 26/07/2025
» The death of 29-year-old Chiang Mai doctor Krittai Tanasombatkul from lung cancer at the end of 2023 was a wake-up call for Thailand's healthcare community.
Spend plan looks rushed
News, Editorial, Published on 16/06/2025
» The government's 157-billion-baht economic stimulus plan is drawing mass attention and its share of critics. The government is to blame for the unwanted criticism because it has failed to convince the public that the huge budget will be spent wisely and transparently.
Mitigating the climate costs of AI
Oped, Sherif Elsayed-Ali, Published on 14/02/2025
» The escalating climate crisis and the rapid rise of artificial intelligence are set to reshape our world, transforming our political systems, economies, and daily lives. What is often overlooked, however, is the myriad ways climate change and AI overlap and influence one another.
Provincial Administration Organisation polls a gamechanger for Thais?
Oped, Peerasit Kamnuansilpa, Published on 16/01/2025
» On Feb 1, Provincial Administration Organisation (PAO) elections will be held in 47 out of 77 provinces. Late last year, there were elections in 29 provinces, where the PAO presidents resigned before their terms ended.
Lanna Buddhist legend merits revival
Oped, Suddan Wisudthiluck, Published on 19/12/2024
» When religious pilgrims trek to sacred sites, they reaffirm not only their faith but also their own culture and communities. One example is Spain's ancient route of Santiago de Compostela, which leads to the tomb of St James the Greater, one of the apostles who spread Christianity. It was established more than a thousand years ago, yet this route attracts millions of pilgrims and tourists today. Unesco recognised it as a World Heritage Site in 1985.
Our broken system fuels flood crisis
News, Saowaruj Rattanakhamfu & Nuthasid Rukkiatwong, Published on 18/12/2024
» In just a few months, floods devastated both northern and southern Thailand, revealing a troubling truth: the country's disaster response system is failing, and climate change is making it worse.