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PM instructs ministers to clarify allegations
BANGKOK, 28 November (NNT) - Prime Minister Yingluck
Shinawatra convened a meeting with her cabinet members, instructing them
to clarify any corruption allegations raised during the no-confidence
debate.
Transport Minister Chatchart Sitthipan told the press that the prime
minister instructed all ministers, particularly those targeted in the
censure debate to study the information presented by the opposition and
clarify the allegations to the public via various channels.
According to the minister, Ms Yingluck said that the three-day
no-confidence debate was very constructive, and the government must
learn from it to improve the operation. She also stressed that there
must be no corruption in her administration.
Meanwhile, Opposition Democrat Party leader Abhisit Vejjajiva said he is
satisfied with the performance of the opposition in the censure debate
although the government could survive the no-confidence vote. He hoped
that the society will be benefited from the information presented by the
opposition.
Mr Abhisit also said that the opposition will submit information related
to improprieties in the government to Senate Speaker Nikom Wairachpanich
and have it forwarded to the National Anti Corruption Commission or
other agencies for further investigation accordingly.
By RADIO THAILAND & INSIGHT INFO
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Police swoop nets Iranians with crystal meth in Chonburi
CHONBURI, Nov 30 – Three Iranians with Bt300 million
in methamphetamines were arrested in this eastern Thai seaboard
province, police reported.
Police raided a luxury home in Banglamung district and nabbed two
suspects, identified as Mohammad Mehdi Manaei, 28, and Behtd Gharhyoz,
25, on Thursday.
Information they gave during police investigation led to the arrest of
their companion, Ali Behnam Asadollahi, 20, later in the day.
Police seized two vehicles and 18.5kg of crystal meth (ice), reactant
chemicals including methamphetamine, nail polish liquid, pseudoephedrine
and ‘ice’ producing equipment.
Four days before the swoop, anti-narcotics police apprehended an Iranian
with a large amount of liquid ice, which led to the major arrest of the
three more suspects Thursday.
Police said Mr Asadollahi, a chemist, produced the drugs, while the
others distributed them, mainly to Thai people. Raw materials were
imported from abroad.
It was one of the biggest raids in Thailand, police said. They believed
four other fugitives implicated in the case remain in Thailand.
Later in the day, police searched a warehouse in Nong Prue subdistrict
and found 20 large air pumps and white powder in several ceramic tubes,
believed to be a drug-related reactant.
The warehouse has been rented to a foreigner for nearly a year, police
reported. (MCOT online news)
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Students oppose alcohol near schools
BANGKOK, 29 November (NNT) - A student prohibitionist
group has pressed for the Ministry of Education to draw up and enforce
new measures to ban any sale of alcohol near schools.
About 30 members of the new Juvenile Network for Preventing Young People
from Becoming New Drinkers submitted a letter to Education Minister
Pongthep Thepkanchana yesterday, demanding action be taken quickly on
three issues.
The group wanted the education and public health ministries to work
together to draw up proactive measures to ban or control the sale of
alcohol in areas around schools and universities, and to show tangible
results quickly.
The group suggested that regulations be drawn to ban all forms of
corporate social responsibility (CSR) activities by alcohol-producing
firms in academic institutions and agencies under them, including any
sponsorship of school activities. They further called on academic
institutions to organize campaigns stressing the adverse effects of
alcohol consumption and related laws.
The network did not set any conditions for compliance from the state but
have urged it in the best interests of the public.
By RADIO THAILAND & INSIGHT INFO
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Pattani schools resume classes Monday under tighter security Share on facebook
PATTANI, Nov 30 – Embattled state schools in this
southern province, closed for a week after the murder of a school
principal last Friday, will reopen Monday after an official promise of
heightened security for teachers.
Deputy Education Minister Sermsak Pongpanich, accompanied by senior
military and police officers, met with teachers, school managers and
representatives of the Confederation for Teachers in Southern Border
Provinces at a school here on Thursday after attending the cremation of
Nanthana Kaewchan, principal of Ban Tha Kamcham School in Nong Chik
District.
More than 300 government schools in Pattani have been closed since
Monday.
The one-hour meeting concluded with the authorities’ promising to
provide better protection to teachers and respond to teachers’ demands,
first proposed to the government in 2010, calling for better welfare for
teachers and other education workers.
Pattani Governor Pramook Lamoon said the meeting agreed to encourage
community participation in school activities and to boost security for
teachers’ during their commutes routes.
The deputy education minister also inspected Ban Bang Maruad School in
Panare district, which was burned late Wednesday night. (MCOT online
news)
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International Court: More study needed on Thailand and ICC jurisdiction
BANGKOK, Nov 30 – The Foreign Ministry and other
government agencies did not reach agreement on the ministry’s move to
endorse the jurisdiction of the International Criminal Court (ICC) over
legal disputes in Thailand.
Foreign Minister Surapong Tovijakchaikul discussed the issue on Thursday
with representatives from the Justice Ministry, the Council of State,
the Department of Special Investigation and the Office of the Attorney
General.
The meeting agreed to forward the proposal to the 18-member Statute of
the International Criminal Court Committee (SICCC), set up by the
cabinet in 1999, for further study.
The director general of the Foreign Ministry’s Department of Treaties
and Legal Affairs was assigned to coordinate with the SICCC.
When a resolution is achieved, it will be decided if the Foreign
Ministry or the Justice Ministry is authorised to submit the issue to
the cabinet for approval, said Mr Surapong.
He said the meeting agreed that Thai laws on extradition, criminal
cooperation, prisoner transfer, and privilege and immunity must be
amended to cover the ICC-stipulated offences.
Concerns from different quarters on the ICC jurisdiction will be
discussed by the SICCC, he concluded. (MCOT online news)
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No court ruling on bail for Red Shirt MPs
BANGKOK, Nov 29 – Thailand’s Criminal Court did not
give its ruling today on a petition to revoke bail for five Pheu Thai
MPs on terrorism charges.
The five Red Shirt activists are protected by parliamentary immunity,
but the parliamentary session ended yesterday.
The five include deputy commerce minister Nattawut Saikua, Karun
Hosakul, Weng Tochirakarn, Wiputalang Pattanapumtai and Korkaew
Pikunthong.
Mr Karun’s parliamentary status was disqualified by the Election
Commission, pending a final verdict by the Supreme Court.
A Democrat MP earlier sought the Criminal Court’s order to revoke bail
for the five MPs, charging them with criticising Constitution Court
judges—a violation of their terms of bail.
Mr Nattawut told the Criminal Court that, while he was released on bail,
his political activity was in accord with the democratic system and
rallies of the United Front for Democracy against Dictatorship (UDD)
which he joined were without any weapons. He said he did not go on stage
during the rallies.
Mr Karun admitted that he led a group of people to dismantle anti-flood
big bags during the 2010 floods in Bangkok but it was meant to help
people in getting their rehabilitation payments and he did not violate
conditions set by the court.
Dr Weng told the court that his public address during a UDD
demonstration was an exercise of his political right in a democratic
system. He said his disclosure of Constitution Court judges’ telephone
numbers was not made during the demonstration.
Mr Wiputalang said his political views were in line with the democratic
system and that he knew nothing about the disclosure of the Constitution
Court’s information which was made by Red Shirt activist Yossawaris
Chuklom, known for his professional name as a comedian, Jeng Dokjik. He
also denied any knowledge of a statement against the Constitution Court
made by Mr Korkaew.
Mr Korkaew said he had no conflict with the Constitution Court. But the
Criminal Court judge informed Mr Korkaew that the Constitution Court had
submitted a petition and a recording, a VCD, confirming his threat
(against the Constitution Court).
After their testimonies, the court allowed them to leave without any
judgment, saying an additional hearing for Mr Korkaew would be needed.
Meanwhile, the Criminal Court called a hearing of 24 UDD suspects on
terrorism charges today but only 23 of them appeared.
Arisman Pongruangrong, one of the 24 suspects, submitted a request for
his absence through his lawyer, saying he was receiving medical
treatment at a hospital.
The court set Dec 13 for the next hearing. (MCOT online news)
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Press associations urge probe of media violations during protest
BANGKOK, Nov 29 - Thailand's press associations on
Thursday asked the Senate rights committee to probe the alleged police
violations of media rights and liberty in their operations during last
weekend's anti-government rally which injured three cameramen.
Chavarong Limpattamapanee, president of the Thai Journalists
Association, and Visut Komwatcharapong, president of the Thai Broadcast
Journalists Association submitted a letter of complaint to Tuang
Unthachai, chairman of the Senate Committee on Human Rights, Rights and
Liberties and Consumer Protection, urging the committee to investigate
police operations which they claimed had violated the media's rights
while they were on duty to report the rally of the Pitak Siam group last
Saturday.
Three cameramen were injured and detained by police during the
operations, the media association presidents said, adding that the
action is considered as obstructing and threatening the media crew who
are duty-bound to report facts to the public.
Mr Tuang said the committee will invite concerned officials to clarify
the issue.
He also noted that the Internal Security Act should not have been used
to maintain law and order during Saturday’s rally as the Constitution
Court had ruled that the Pitak Siam rally was not aiming to topple the
constitutional monarchy. (MCOT online news)
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Bruda whale carcass found in Chumphon
CHUMPHON, Nov 29 – The carcass of a Bruda whale,
weighing an estimated 20 tonnes, was found on the shoreline of this
southern province near King Mongkut's Institute of Technology (KMIT)
Ladkrabang, Chumphon campus.
Atichart Inthongkam, a fisheries biologist from the Marine and Coastal
Resources Research Centre for Central Gulf of Thailand, inspected the
remains of the whale, which washed ashore in the bay in front of KMIT in
Pathiu district.
Mr Atichart said that the whale was measured at 15 metres long and
weighing around 20 tonnes.
The expert said he could not identify whether it was a male or female
whale because the carcass was decomposing. He believed that it had died
more than 10 days.
Mr Atichart said he has collected samples of its bones, flesh and skin
for further analysis as the cause of death could not yet be identified.
The remains of the whale were buried at the shore to prevent the smell
of the rotten body to annoy local residents. (MCOT online news)
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Pink Line Muang Thong Thani link mulled
BANGKOK, 29 November (NNT) - A proposal has been put
forward to extend the planned Pink Line MRT extension to Muang Thong
Thani on Chaeng Wattana road, and for the establishment of a train
maintenance facility in the area.
The Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand (MRTA) has begun
negotiating with Bangkok Land PLC to implement the plan.
MRTA governor Yongsit Rojsrikul remarked that the plan would benefit the
many commuters living in the area.
The maintenance facility has been slated for construction on a 30-rai
plot with an investment of 1.5 billion baht. The building could
potentially be a joint venture between the MRTA and Bangkok Land, which
holds the deed to the plot.
The linkage to Muang Thong Thani would add an extra 200-thousand
passengers to the estimated daily load of the Pink Line.
By RADIO THAILAND & INSIGHT INFO
The 7th Princess Chulabhorn International Science Congress
The 7th Princess Chulabhorn International Science
Congress, a major gathering of scientists in Thailand, will take place
at the Shangri-La Hotel in Bangkok from November 29 to December 3.
Organized by the Chulabhorn Research Institute, the five-day congress
focuses on the theme “Cancer: From Basic Research to Cure.”
Professor Dr. Her Royal Princess Chulabhorn, the President of the
Chulabhorn Research Institute will preside over the opening ceremony at
4:40 p.m. on Thursday, 29 November. On this occasion, Her Royal Highness
will give a keynote address on the topic "Environmental and life-style
factors contributing to cancer incidence in Asia."
At this congress, Professor John Michael Bishop, one of the Nobel Prize
winning scientists, will give a lecture on “Cancer: The genomic era
arrives.” The congress program also includes plenary lectures, symposia,
and poster presentations.
Realizing that cancer is a global issue that affects everyone, either
directly or indirectly, and that it is now the leading cause of death in
both the developed and developing world, Professor Dr. Her Royal
Highness Princess Chulabhorn has deemed it important to focus on the
issue of cancer at the 7th Princess Chulabhorn International Science
Congress.
The congress serves as a forum for presenting the latest developments in
all areas of cancer research, including cancer etiology and molecular
mechanisms, strategies for cancer prevention, early detection and
diagnosis, as well as therapeutic interventions, all of which are
crucial in the battle to overcome cancer.
It is said that more people die from cancer than AIDS, tuberculosis and
malaria combined, and the death toll is set to rise dramatically over
the coming decades. It has been predicted that over the next 10 years,
as many as 84 million people will die of cancer and more than 70 percent
of them will be in the developing world.
Princess Chulabhorn International Science Congress Program was initiated
by Her Royal Highness Princess Chulabhorn to provide a forum for the
exchange of the latest information and the most recent advances in
research among the international scientific community. Under this
program, international congresses on selected topics in science and
technology are organized every 4 to 5 years.
The seventh congress is being held to pay tribute to His Majesty the
King on the occasion of his 84th birthday anniversary in 2011 and to Her
Majesty the Queen on the occasion of her 80th birthday anniversary in
2012. Professor Dr. Her Royal Highness Princess Chulabhorn, Chairperson
of the National Organizing Committee for the Congress, is the youngest
daughter of Their Majesties King Bhumibol Adulyadej and Queen Sirikit of
Thailand.
By RADIO THAILAND
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Thailand, US sign MoU on trilateral cooperation
BANGKOK, Nov 28 – The Thailand International
Development Cooperation Agency (TICA) and the United States Agency for
International Development/Regional Development Mission for Asia
(USAID/RDMA) on Wednesday signed a Memorandum of Understanding on
Trilateral Cooperation.
The signing ceremony was held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs by TICA
Director General Piroon Laismit and USAID/RDMA Mission Director Michael
Yates.
According to the ministry's statement, Thailand has had a long
collaboration with the US on technical cooperation in various fields
through USAID.
The formal USAID programme ended in 1995. However, there are a number of
targeted assistance programmes which continue in areas of mutually
defined importance, including: health and HIV/AIDS programme; refugee
assistance; and trafficking in persons through USAID’s regional
development programme.
Currently both countries will expand their cooperation to the joint
partnership for sustainable development for developing countries in the
Southeast Asian region, which is reflected in the depth and diversity of
cooperation of the pact.
Thai Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra and US President Barack Obama
met on November 18 at Government House in Bangkok, on the eve of the
anniversary of 180 years of diplomatic relations between Thailand and
the United States, when the two leaders welcomed the signing of the MoU
on Trilateral Cooperation between TICA and USAID/RDMA to support human
resources development in the region.
This collaboration will support the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs)
and Busan Declaration, based on mutual interest such as health,
environment, agriculture and food security, trade, policy reforms and
capacity building, made through TICA, USAID/RDMA and Thai authorities
concerned. (MCOT online news)
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Watchdog group seeks removal of PM, cabinet members
BANGKOK, Nov 29 – The National Anti-Corruption
Network (NACN) today launched a fresh attempt to remove Prime Minister
Yingluck Shinawatra and prominent cabinet members from the country’s
administration for allegedly facilitating irregularities in the rice
pledging scheme.
Mongkolkit Suksintharanon, secretary-general of the National
Anti-Corruption Network (NACN), petitioned the National Anti-Corruption
Commission (NACC), charging widespread corruption in the implementation
of the highly-criticised scheme.
Deputy Prime Minister/Finance Minister Kittiratt Na-Ranong and Commerce
Minister Boonsong Teriyapirom were included in the removal list.
Mr Mongkolkit said the NACN has sufficient evidence that implicated
politicians’ associates in the irregularities. He asked the NACC to
investigate transparency in the rice pledging scheme and the unusual
monetary movement of senior civil servants involved in the scheme.
He also asked the graft-busting agency to forward the petition to the
Supreme Court Criminal Division for Political Position Holders and the
Senate for consideration whether there are grounds to launch an
impeachment against the premier and her two key ministers. (MCOT online
news)
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Senate says ICC jurisdiction will harm Thailand
BANGKOK, Nov 29 – The Senate’s committee on foreign
affairs has strongly opposed a move by the Thai Foreign Ministry to
endorse the jurisdiction of the International Criminal Court (ICC) over
legal disputes in Thailand.
The Foreign Ministry is scheduled to bring up the issue for discussion
today.
Committee chairman Pikulkaew Krairiksh, a senator from Phitsanulok, said
the ICC jurisdiction will subject Thailand to ICC intervention on legal
cases.
Prior to an endorsement, related Thai laws must be amended and approved
by the government as stipulated in Section 190 of the constitution, she
said, adding that Thailand will be bound by the jurisdiction even though
the endorsement is unilaterally done by the Foreign Ministry.
All quarters in Thailand including the head of state will have to bow to
the ICC jurisdiction and verdict if the Foreign Ministry decides to
endorse it, she explained.
She added that the Senate’s committee on foreign affairs was concerned
that the move, if approved, will jeopardise the country’s security and
judicial system, and may contribute to conflicts in the country.
Senator Somchai Sawangkarn said he will seek the Constitution Court’s
verdict on the controversy if the government fails to submit it to
Parliament for deliberations as required by Section 190 of the
constitution. (MCOT online news)
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Space Krenovation Park launched for geo-informatics, space technology development
CHONBURI, Nov 29 – Thailand’s Geo-Informatics and
Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA) has launched a Space
Krenovation Park (SKP) at the Thaichote Satellite Control Station in
Sriracha district to further develop the country’s geo-informatics and
space technology.
GISTDA director Dr Anond Snidvongs said the opening ceremony of Space
Krenovation Park included an agreement signing to forge alliances with
Thai and foreign geo-informatics and space technology entrepreneurs.
He said SKP was set up to also support related research, develop
innovation, and add value to products in related businesses such as
spare parts for space missions, batteries, mapping, high resolution
satellite images, as well as developing the potential of geo-informatics
and space technology under the Association of Southeast Asian Nations
(ASEAN).
The Space Krenovation Park comprises seven main parts including
satellite control unit, geo-informatics centre at ASEAN level, giving
knowledge to prospective entrepreneurs keen to join the business, and
renting space to private sector agencies wishing to do research on
product development. (MCOT online news)
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Free underground ride for fathers on King’s birthday
BANGKOK, Nov 29 - The Bangkok Metro Company Limited
(BMCL), the underground train operator, is offering a free ride for
fathers on His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej’s birthday, which
Thailand celebrates also as Father’s Day.
Chartchai Praditpong, BMCL corporate relations director, said the
company will offer a free ride for fathers on Father’s Day to celebrate
His Majesty the King’s birthday on December 5.
The free ride campaign is to pay homage to the King and his great
contributions to the country as well as to foster family relationships,
he added.
To receive free ride coupons at all ticket counters, a father and son or
daughter are required to travel together from and to the same stations.
Children who are less than 90 centimetres tall are eligible for a free
ride as well. (MCOT online news)
Chaing Mai sees lively Loy Krathong festival
CHIANG MAI, Nov 28 - The Loy Krathong festival in this northern province
is distinctive due to Lanna northern-style lantern contests and other
activities to be held in the evening.
Chiang Mai mayor Tassanai Buranupakorn joined the ceremony to worship at
a spirit house asking forgiveness from the River Goddess, part of the
annual Loy Krathong and Yipeng celebrations.
Giant lantern contests were held this morning at many temples in the
province as well as in Chiang Mai municipality.
Lanterns in many shapes were submitted by competing organizations and
agencies to contest the festive event.
Some lanterns are as high as the three-story building.
The lantern launching time was given to the Chiang Mai Air Traffic
Control Centre and Chiang Mai Airport to maintain flight security so
that there would be no floating objects wandering into aircraft flight
paths.
Tonight a contest of small loy krathong vessels will be held along with
a fireworks display and other activities. (MCOT online news)
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Floods hit Samui
SURAT THANI, 27 November 2012 (NNT) - Authorities on
Koh Samui of Surat Thani province have been ordered to stay alert around
the clock after a downpour flooded many parts of the island yesterday.
Samui district chief Prasert Jitmung, urged officials to remain vigilant
and be prepared to help people escape rising waters. Many areas on the
island were inundated, some of them by up to 30 centimeters, after rains
hit the island early yesterday. Officials prevented floods on key roads
in popular tourist areas but most of the island has succumbed to
flooding.
The Meteorological Department has warned of continued heavy rain
throughout the Eastern and Southern region until tomorrow. Prasert said
ferry services between Samui and the mainland have not been disrupted
but urged operators to closely monitor weather forecasts as reports have
warned of surges as high as 2 meters.
Troubled southern schools to reopen Friday
PATTANI, Nov 28 - More than 300 schools in this
violence-plagued province in Thailand's deep South, closed since Monday
following the murder of a school principal, will reopen Friday.
Pattani Governor Pramuk Lamun said classes in the 332 state-run schools
will resume one day after the royally-sponsored cremation of Nanthana
Kaewchan, principal of Ban Tha Kamcham School in Nong Chik district of
Pattani. The teachers earlier announced their decision to boycott
teaching unless the government improves security for them.
The Confederation of Teachers of Southern Region said teachers will
return to classes on Friday to avoid pressure and criticism by parents,
but the members called for sympathy to teachers who have been targets of
repeated attacks.
Mr Pramook said the authorities have identified the suspects involved in
Ms Nanthana’s death and they are collecting further evidence in order to
issue an arrest warrant.
The shell casings are similar to those found in a shootout in Pattani's
Kok Pho and Nong Chik districts, he said. (MCOT online news)
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PM, 3 ministers, sail through censure debate
BANGKOK, Nov 28 - Thailand's House of Representatives
today upheld Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra and three cabinet
members after a heated no-confidence debate, which started Sunday and
ended late last night, spearheaded by the opposition Democrat Party.
While the prime minister was sustained, her subordinates received less
support from Parliament.
Ms Yingluck received 308 votes in support of her performance, against
159 votes to censure, while her deputy, Chalerm Yubumrung, passed with a
vote of 287 to 157, with 25 abstentions and 11 MPs expressed no
decision.
Defence Minister Sukumpol Suwanatat and Deputy Interior Minister Chat
Kuladilok were each given 284 votes of confidence.
ACM Sukumpol received 160 no confidence votes, 25 abstentions and 11
remained silent, while Pol Lt-Gen Chat was given 182 no confidence
votes, five abstentions and 10 remained silent.
The Thai Parliament’s electronic voting system has three categories with
buttons for ‘Yea’, ‘Nay’ and ‘Abstention’. In practice there is a fourth
category in which members of parliament are present in the house but do
not press any of the three buttons, and express no verbal statement,
sometimes described as ‘silent’ votes.
The constitution stipulates that the opposition needs at least half of
the total 500 MPs to unseat a cabinet member. Currently, there are 493
MPs attending the House.
Supachai Jaisamut, deputy secretary general of the opposition
Bhumjaithai Party, said the party’s 24 MPs voted in favour of the prime
minister as they viewed that the Opposition's allegations against the
premier had no substantial grounds.
The party MPs abstained from voting for deputy prime minister Chalerm
and defence minister Sukumpol, Mr Supachai said, adding that the
decision was to allow the country to move forward. The MPs however cast
no-confidence votes for deputy interior minister Chat believing that the
Democrats had strong evidence against the minister.
Mr Supachai stated that the party's vote should not be interpreted as a
desire to join the Pheu Thai-led government.
House Speaker Somsak Kiatsuranont later announced that all four cabinet
ministers received sufficient votes of confidence from the Lower House.
(MCOT online news)
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The 7th Princess Chulabhorn International Science Congress
The 7th Princess Chulabhorn International Science
Congress, a major gathering of scientists in Thailand, will take place
at the Shangri-La Hotel in Bangkok from November 29 to December 3.
Organized by the Chulabhorn Research Institute, the five-day congress
focuses on the theme “Cancer: From Basic Research to Cure.”
Professor Dr. Her Royal Princess Chulabhorn, the President of the
Chulabhorn Research Institute will preside over the opening ceremony at
4:40 p.m. on Thursday, 29 November. On this occasion, Her Royal Highness
will give a keynote address on the topic "Environmental and life-style
factors contributing to cancer incidence in Asia."
At this congress, Professor John Michael Bishop, one of the Nobel Prize
winning scientists, will give a lecture on “Cancer: The genomic era
arrives.” The congress program also includes plenary lectures, symposia,
and poster presentations.
Realizing that cancer is a global issue that affects everyone, either
directly or indirectly, and that it is now the leading cause of death in
both the developed and developing world, Professor Dr. Her Royal
Highness Princess Chulabhorn has deemed it important to focus on the
issue of cancer at the 7th Princess Chulabhorn International Science
Congress.
The congress serves as a forum for presenting the latest developments in
all areas of cancer research, including cancer etiology and molecular
mechanisms, strategies for cancer prevention, early detection and
diagnosis, as well as therapeutic interventions, all of which are
crucial in the battle to overcome cancer.
It is said that more people die from cancer than AIDS, tuberculosis and
malaria combined, and the death toll is set to rise dramatically over
the coming decades. It has been predicted that over the next 10 years,
as many as 84 million people will die of cancer and more than 70 percent
of them will be in the developing world.
Princess Chulabhorn International Science Congress Program was initiated
by Her Royal Highness Princess Chulabhorn to provide a forum for the
exchange of the latest information and the most recent advances in
research among the international scientific community. Under this
program, international congresses on selected topics in science and
technology are organized every 4 to 5 years.
The seventh congress is being held to pay tribute to His Majesty the
King on the occasion of his 84th birthday anniversary in 2011 and to Her
Majesty the Queen on the occasion of her 80th birthday anniversary in
2012. Professor Dr. Her Royal Highness Princess Chulabhorn, Chairperson
of the National Organizing Committee for the Congress, is the youngest
daughter of Their Majesties King Bhumibol Adulyadej and Queen Sirikit of
Thailand.
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BMA to delay service for 2 new skytrain stations
BANGKOK, 27 November 2012 (NNT) - The Bangkok
Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has announced that it has halted the
opening of two new Bangkok Transit System (BTS) stations, following
safety concerns from the stations’ own engineering company.
Bangkok Deputy Governor Teerachon Manomaipibul said the latest safety
inspection of the Ponimit and Talad Plu stations, initially scheduled to
be opened for trial service on December 5th by ICE engineering, has
prompted further review of the stops.
Mr. Teerachon stated that in the name of commuter safety, the BMA
decided to postpone the two stations’ opening until May of next year.
Construction at two other stations, Wutakard and Bangwa, is also
expected to be completed by August of next year.
BMA alters work schedule
BANGKOK, 27 November 2012 (NNT) - The Bangkok
Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has instructed its offices to alter
their work schedules in order to alleviate traffic congestion in the
capital.
The Office of the BMA Permanent-Secretary yesterday circulated a memo to
BMA agencies to acknowledge a cabinet resolution on means to resolve
traffic jams in Bangkok during heavy rainfall. Agencies with water
retention capacities have been asked to hold off on releasing water into
ditches and public waterways near roads during heavy rain.
Agencies such as the Department of Drainage and Sewerage have also been
instructed to re-arrange work schedules and personnel commutes in order
to alleviate rush hour traffic during days of heavy rainfall.
Providing Disabled People with Greater Job Opportunities
The Ministry of Social Development and Human Security
has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to provide employment
opportunities for disabled persons, as part of the celebration of the
United Nations International Day of Persons with Disabilities.
Minister of Social Development and Human Security, Santi Promphat,
signed the MOU with Big C Supercenter, which agreed to hire disabled
persons to work at its store and food outlets.
Thailand joins the United Nations in observing the United Nations
International Day of Persons with Disabilities on December 3 each year.
The designated theme for the observance of the 2012 International Day of
Persons with Disabilities is “Removing barriers to create an inclusive
and accessible society for all." The day aims to promote an
understanding of disability issues and mobilize support for the dignity,
rights, and well-being of persons with disabilities. It also seeks to
increase awareness of gains to be derived from the inclusion of persons
with disabilities in every aspect of life.
Minister Santi said that the Ministry of Social Development and Human
Security and the Disabilities Thailand are joining hands in organizing
an event to mark the 2012 International Day of Persons with Disabilities
at Challenger Hall, IMPACT, Muang Thong Thani, Nonthaburi province on
December 3.
He said that the Government is well aware of the importance of disabled
persons and intends to develop and promote their rights and
opportunities. For instance, he said, disabled persons have the right to
have access to free medical care and education.
The Government has offered a monthly allowance of 500 baht to people
with disabilities across Thailand. Various workplaces have been urged to
provide facilities and services for disabled persons. A commitment has
also been made to make public transport more accessible for disabled
persons.
Thailand has enforced the Regulation on the Employment of Persons with
Disabilities, which mandates public and private organizations to hire
persons with disabilities in a ratio of one disabled person to every 100
regular employees. The Regulation on the Sign Language Service has also
been enforced, which enables deaf people to ask for the service 24 hours
a day for medical and health services, job applications, lodging
complaints or other services.
Thailand has also benefited from the active leadership of persons with
disabilities, such as Senator Monthian Buntan, who has been elected to
the United Nations Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities
for the term 2013-2016.
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Censure debate zeroes in on corruption in flood spending
BANGKOK, Nov 27 – The Thai Parliament’s no-confidence debate, which
entered its third day today, is expected to end by midnight as agreed by
the government and the opposition.
Democrat MP Jurin Laksanavisit, chairman of the opposition coordination
committee (and opposition whip), said today’s debate will concentrate on
corruption in the Bt120 billion flood relief budget.
He said the opposition has, during the past two days, pinpointed the
government’s failure in its administration of the country, particularly
in the rice pledging scheme, and the government admitted the
opposition’s allegations.
Udomdej Ratanasathien, chairman of the government coordination committee
(who is also government whip), said the censure debate must end by
midnight today.
“The opposition has 15 hours and the government seven hours for the
debate. Both sides will have to talk less in order to end the three-day
debate as earlier scheduled,” he said. (MCOT online news)
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127 anti-government protesters released on bail
BANGKOK, Nov 27 – A total of 127 persons arrested Saturday at the
protest against the government and charged with breaching the Internal
Security Act (ISA) have been released on bail until Friday at the order
of the Dusit District Court.
Crime Suppression police said the suspects, led by Kanes Homthaunlom,
tried to break police barricades to join the anti-government rally led
by retired Gen Boonlert Kaewprasit, leader of the Pitak Siam group, at
the Royal Plaza.
The 127 suspects were released earlier on a temporary basis after police
interrogations. They did not appear in court on Monday.
Police testified that the government had enforced the ISA in Dusit, Phra
Nakhon and Pomprab Satrupai districts—the areas where the rally was
expected to occupy—since last Thursday but the 127 suspects defied
police order and attempted to enter the demonstration site.
Police also charged Somsamai Nitaji of ramming a six-wheel truck into
police and resisted the authorities’ arrest. (MCOT online news)
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300,000 meth pills seized in Nakhon Phanom
NAKHON PHANOM, Nov 27 -- Nearly 300,000 meth pills were seized in baggage left
on the banks of the Mekong River in this northeastern Thai province.
Border patrol police and Nakhon Phanom provincial police, in a joint operation,
inspected the targeted routes of a drug trafficking ring after receiving
information that a major lot of illicit drug would be delivered into the
province.
During the operation, they have found a baggage filled with meth pills hidden on
the Mekong River bank in the provincial seat. No one claimed ownership of the
baggage.
The authorities searched the baggage and found 49 packages containing 294,000
meth pills.
This was the second time in three days that police seized meth pills in the same
location. The police earlier found 305,600 meth pills at the site. The
authorities believe that the same location had been used for drug deliveries
repeatedly by the drug trafficking ring. (MCOT online news)
Gangnam Style’ carries Thai inmates to stage
BANGKOK, Nov 27 – Thai people laughed their heads off when a video clip of Thai
sailors performing the globally-viral Gangnam Style dance went online a few
months ago.
Before their tears of laughter dried up, the K-pop amusement craze encored to
entertain Thai netizens—this time by the Thai police force.
Thailand’s sailors and police may have been quietly reprimanded for their
inappropriate sense of humour, but the Corrections Department does not see it
that way. It fully embraces the Korean hip-hop and introduces Gangnam dance
style behind the prison walls.
Suchart Wong-ananchai, director general of the Corrections Department, smiled
broadly as he presented awards to jail winners of the ‘Gangnam Style’ dance
contest at the Bangkok Special Prison today.
Prisoners from seven zones under the supervision of the prison were invited to
join the contest aimed at relieving prisoners’ stress and anxiety which
frequently led to brawls behind bars.
Prisoners have been encouraged to exercise to enhance their physical fitness, he
said, adding that the popular Gangnam Style dance is one of the most effective
forms of physical exercise.
Mr Suchart will definitely be overjoyed if the South Korean music artist PSY can
spare some time to train the contestants. Now that PSY is too busy preaching his
pop music cult, Thailand’s prison warders are good enough at the new style to
take over the training job. (MCOT online news)
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Providing Disabled People with Greater Job Opportunities
The Ministry of Social Development and Human Security has signed a memorandum of
understanding (MOU) to provide employment opportunities for disabled persons, as
part of the celebration of the United Nations International Day of Persons with
Disabilities.
Minister of Social Development and Human Security, Santi Promphat, signed the
MOU with Big C Supercenter, which agreed to hire disabled persons to work at its
store and food outlets.
Thailand joins the United Nations in observing the United Nations International
Day of Persons with Disabilities on December 3 each year. The designated theme
for the observance of the 2012 International Day of Persons with Disabilities is
“Removing barriers to create an inclusive and accessible society for all." The
day aims to promote an understanding of disability issues and mobilize support
for the dignity, rights, and well-being of persons with disabilities. It also
seeks to increase awareness of gains to be derived from the inclusion of persons
with disabilities in every aspect of life.
Minister Santi said that the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security
and the Disabilities Thailand are joining hands in organizing an event to mark
the 2012 International Day of Persons with Disabilities at Challenger Hall,
IMPACT, Muang Thong Thani, Nonthaburi province on December 3.
He said that the Government is well aware of the importance of disabled persons
and intends to develop and promote their rights and opportunities. For instance,
he said, disabled persons have the right to have access to free medical care and
education.
The Government has offered a monthly allowance of 500 baht to people with
disabilities across Thailand. Various workplaces have been urged to provide
facilities and services for disabled persons. A commitment has also been made to
make public transport more accessible for disabled persons.
Thailand has enforced the Regulation on the Employment of Persons with
Disabilities, which mandates public and private organizations to hire persons
with disabilities in a ratio of one disabled person to every 100 regular
employees. The Regulation on the Sign Language Service has also been enforced,
which enables deaf people to ask for the service 24 hours a day for medical and
health services, job applications, lodging complaints or other services.
Thailand has also benefited from the active leadership of persons with
disabilities, such as Senator Monthian Buntan, who has been elected to the
United Nations Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities for the term
2013-2016.
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Youth forgetting how to communicate
BANGKOK, 25 November 2012 (NNT) -The Office of Higher Education Commission
(Ohec) revealed that young people are having problems with interpersonal skills
because instead of having face-to-face conversations, they are talking more via
digital means.
Ohec deputy secretary general Arporn Kaenwong last week voiced concerns about
the problem at the third National Student Higher Education Conference in
Bangkok. She said that if students had started spending more time in
extracurricular activities, then their interpersonal communication skills would
have become more effective.
She also highlighted the need for young people to become more fluent in the
English language to prepare for an increasingly globalized world and the
upcoming Asean Economic Community (AEC).
At the same time, teachers should use a key performance indicator to take care
of students in terms of study, extracurricular activities as well as morality.
This would widen the vista for young people and prepare them for globalization.
BY RADIO THAILAND
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King reviews royal projects progress at Chitrlada Palace
BANGKOK, Nov 27 -- His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej visited Chitralada Palace
Monday to review progress of the projects he initiated as well as to visit the
Royal Elephant Museum inside the compound.
His Majesty the King left Siriraj Hospital’s Chalermprakiat Building Monday
afternoon at 3pm where he has been receiving nourishment to regain his strength
since September 2009 when he was admitted with fever, fatigue and a lung
inflammation.
The monarch appeared before the public with a happy face, sitting on a
wheelchair and passing a large assemblage of well-wishers lining the way at
Siriraj to catch a glimpse of him. They raised his portraits and chanted “Long
Live the King.”
His Majesty the King spent the afternoon visiting his dairy farm and other
places within the palace compound.
The dairy farm is one of his royally-initiated projects, and was set up in 1962
to select and improve dairy cattle breeds for Thailand as well as to promote
dairy farming in the country.
After inspecting activities at the farm, he went to the Chitralada UHT milk
processing plant which was set up in 2003 to make use of the oversupply of raw
milk.
His Majesty the King visited the solar cell house where solar cells are
installed on the rooftop to generate electricity.
After that he visited the Royal Elephant Museum, located in the palace compound.
The King viewed statues of royal elephants and spent time studying the history
of the royal elephants that belonged to each previous king of the Chakri
dynasty.
His Majesty the King was at Chitralada Palace for about two and one half hours
before returning to Siriraj Hospital at 5.20pm. (MCOT online news)
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Southeastern Thailand on alert for downpours
SONGKHLA, Nov 27 – Residents of the southern coastal provinces along the Gulf of
Thailand from Prachuab Khiri Khan to Nakhon Si Thammarat have been warned of
heavy rainfall and flashfloods through Wednesday.
Wanchai Udomchai, director of Thailand’s Southeastern Meteorological Centre,
also advised fishermen to keep their fishing boats ashore as waves in the Gulf
of Thailand could be as high as two metres.
Heavy downpours will hit many areas in Prachuab Khiri Khan, Chumphon, Surat
Thani and Nakhon Si Thammarat, he said.
Chumphon Governor Pirasak Hinmuangkao has ordered a 24-hour alert and careful
watch of the situation after receiving reports of a strong high pressure from
China moving towards the Gulf of Thailand and the South.
It has rained in the southeastern coast since Monday and fishing boats have
stayed idly near the shore. (MCOT online news)
Minister admits rice pledging scheme financial burden to government
BANGKOK, Nov 27 – Commerce Minister Boonsong Teriyapirom
brushed aside an allegation that the rice pledging scheme has incurred a Bt20
billion loss to the government, but vowed to stop creating financial burdens for
the state in the future.
In his clarification during the censure debate in the House of Representatives
on Monday, he said he was unaware of a politician’s ownership of rice mills
which joined the rice scheme.
He promised to investigate the opposition’s allegation and admitted that random
checks at rice mills found cheating on weight and humidity measurements.
Mr Boonsong claimed that the government has given more transparency and clearer
information on rice deals than the previous government.
Deputy Prime Minister Chalern Yubumrung, in his capacity as chairman of a
committee investigating corruption in rice pledging, told lawmakers that the
authorities found 81 corruption cases in which 123 people have been implicated.
Legal actions have been taken against 98 suspects while 25 are still at large,
he said, adding that two cases are in court trials and 55 others remain under
investigation.
Opposition Democrat MP Arkom Engchuan said some government agencies including
the Anti-Corruption Commission have warned the government of malfeasance in the
rice pledging scheme but the government chose to ignore them.
In Angthong province, he said, the Commerce Ministry assigned three rice mill
operators to transport rice from Roi Et province and each rice mill was
subjected to pay Bt2 million in exchange for the deal. (MCOT online news)
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PM revokes Internal Security Act
BANGKOK, Nov 26 - Thai Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra today signed an order
revoking the Internal Security Act (ISA) imposed in three districts of Bangkok
to maintain law and order during the anti-government protest of Pitak Siam group
over the weekend.
Government spokesperson Tossaporn Serirak said the premier signed the order to
end the imposition of the ISA in Phra Nakhon, Dusit and Pomprap Sattruephai
districts beginning last Thursday through this Friday after the Pitak Siam
staged the protest at the Royal Plaza last Saturday.
The rally ended within one day after police fired tear gas to disperse hundreds
of anti-government protesters who attempted to break a line of riot police
officers blocking a street near the rally site.
The Public Health Ministry said 82 people were injured in the clashes, including
52 civilians.
The Pitak Siam leader Gen Boonlert Kaewprasit stood down as the protest’s leader
immediately after taking the stage at Royal Plaza on Saturday evening to
instruct demonstrators to disperse to avoid casualties. He said that the turnout
was lower than he had expected.
Mr Tossaporn said that as concerned agencies could maintain order and the
situation has returned to normal, the prime minister decided to revoke the
special law, resulting in the ending of other related orders issued under the
ISA and by the premier as well as the Centre for the Administration of Peace and
Order.
The ISA revocation takes effect today, according to the government spokesperson.
(MCOT online news)
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Thai PM compliments self on administrative performance
BANGKOK, Nov 26 – Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra said today that Thailand’s
economy has continued to revive despite internal conflicts which have hampered a
number of national development projects.
She said that the waters of a number of dams and reservoirs almost overflowed
when she took office in August last year while at the same time there was a
shortage of equipment for fighting floods, compelling the government to allocate
a Bt120 billion budget on an emergency basis to address the flood emergency.
Ms Yingluck was referring to last year’s massive floods which wreaked havoc on
the country only a few months after she assumed premiership.
The premier was responding to an earlier statement by Abhisit Vejjajiva, leader
of the opposition Democrat Party, in a censure debate against her and three
cabinet members in the House of Representatives which entered its second day
today.
Mr Abhisit said the premier failed in three areas --to control the prices of
consumer goods, by increasing the prices of agricultural produce and solving the
chronic problem in Thailand’s deep South.
He said the government’s rice-pledging scheme has caused severe damage to the
country—an issue the prime minister could not ignore in her capacity as chair of
the National Rice Policy Committee of Thailand.
The Democrat leader said the government’s buy-dear-sell-cheap rice scheme has
caused Thailand an annual loss of up to Bt 244 billion and the country’s public
debt will accumulate to 60 per cent of the country's gross domestic product
(GDP) if the scheme continues for seven years.
Explaining that the scheme was aimed at creating financial stability for
farmers, the prime minister said Thailand’s rank as the world’s rice exporter
has dropped to third place but the total revenue from rice export remains the
highest in the world. (MCOT online news)
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Pitak Siam leader absolutely abandons political activity
BANGKOK, Nov 26 – Retired Gen Boonlert Kaewprasit, self-deposed leader of the
Pitak Siam group, stood firm today that his decision to totally call it quits
from political activity was his own choice.
He ruled out an allegation that he was paid by former premier Thaksin
Shinawatra, now in exile abroad, to call off the anti-government rally in
Bangkok on Saturday.
Gen Boonlert stood down as Pitak Siam leader immediately after he went on stage
at the Royal Plaza on Saturday evening to instruct the demonstrators to disperse
to avoid casualties. He admitted that the turnout was lower than expected while
many were blocked by police from entering the rally site.
His disappointment was intensified by two rounds of tear gas attacks on
protesters during the day.
He also announced his resignation as president of the Military Cadet Alumni
Foundation, saying he was disillusioned with some army officers who earlier
promised to support the rally but did nothing.
Looking back to the Saturday’s failed protest, Gen Boonlert said he made the
crucial decision after learning that the demonstrators were numbered by
policemen and they (demonstrators) could be killed or injured if they insisted
on breaking the police barricade.
He said the Pitak Siam group will remain its existence to fight pending legal
cases.
As for a report that Prasong Soonsiri, former secretary general of the National
Security Council and anti-government activist, will assume the Pitak Siam
leadership in organising a rally after Dec 10, Gen Boonlert told reporters to
directly ask Sq Ldr Prasong.
“Gen Boonlert is dead. I don’t know what to do when the country is in the
present state and laws are siding evils. I will absolute not join any rally,” he
declared. (MCOT online news)
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Opposition starts second day of grilling
BANGKOK, Nov 26 -- The opposition led by the Democrat party opened the second
day of its censure debate on Monday after the first day of grilling ended at
about 11pm last night.
On the second day, the focus is expected to be on Prime Minister Yingluck
Shinawatra for alleged mismanagement of administration, the Bt300 minimum daily
wage policy and the rice pledging scheme.
Under the no confidence motion, filed earlier by the opposition party, Ms
Yingluck, her deputy Chalerm Yubumrung, Defence Minister Sukumpol Suwanatat and
Deputy Interior Minister Chat Kuldilok, also former deputy transport minister,
were under scrutiny for mismanagement leading to corruption.
The motion also calls for the premier to be questioned for her failure to
deliver results in accord with her policy statement earlier pledged to
parliament.
The opposition started grilling the Yingluck administration Sunday in a
three-day timeframe for the censure debate, and the no-confidence vote is set
for Wednesday.
Ms Yingluck’s six-party ruling coalition holds about three-fifths of the seats
in the lower house. (MCOT online news)
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300 schools in Pattani close temporarily
PATTANI, Nov 26 - More than 300 schools in Pattani have closed temporarily since
Thursday’s gunning down of a school director while similar moves have been urged
in Yala and Narathiwat to pressure security agencies to beef up protection for
teachers.
Boonsom Thongsriplai, chairman of the Teachers Confederation of the Three
Southern Border Provinces, met representatives of primary school teachers in
Pattani's Education Zone 1 today following the killing of Ms Nantana Kaewchan,
51, director of Tha Kamcham School in this southern border province last
Thursday.
He said the teachers resolved to temporarily close 332 schools in the province.
The teachers will urge their peers in Yala and Narathiwat to take similar action
to demand that security agencies improve teacher protection plan to prevent a
repeat of deadly attack against teachers.
In November alone, two teachers were killed and another two were injured in
insurgent attacks.
Pattani has seen 66 teachers killed and 46 wounded since the insurgency flared
up eight years ago. (MCOT online news)
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Myanmar migrant workers to receive Bt300 minimum wage: Thai Labour Ministry
BANGKOK, Nov 26 -- Myanmar migrant workers who have already passed the
nationality verification process are entitled to receive Thailand’s Bt300
minimum wage, the same rate as Thai workers under Thai law, according to Vice
Minister of Labour and Social Welfare Anusorn Kraiwatnussorn.
Mr Anusorn said after meeting with visiting Myanmar Deputy Minister for Labour
Myint Thein that he told Myint Thein to inform the Myanmar workers who wanted to
work legally in Thailand that they would definitely receive Bt300 minimum wage,
the same rate as Thai workers.
He also asked the Myanmar deputy minister to consider opening additional border
crossing points from the existing three ones to facilitate the return of Myanmar
migrant workers who could not make it through the nationality verification
process before the deadline on December 14.
Mr Myint Thein replied that, according to the information, there are some 2
million Myanmar migrant workers in Thailand. Among those, 1.2 million are legal
workers whose status has been verified while there are some 300,000 workers who
have not yet verified their nationality.
The minister said he believed the workers who were waiting for the verification
process could not make it in time as the December 14 deadline nears, and they
have to return to Myanmar.
According to ministry's figures, more that 565,000 Myanmar migrant workers have
registered for nationality verification, more than 473,000 have been verified
while nearly 92,000 are waiting to go through the procedure. (MCOT online news)
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Drug smuggling suspects apprehended; 1 million meth pills seized
BANGKOK, Nov 26 - Three drug smuggling suspects were arrested
today with one million of the gang’s stock of meth pills seized.
Narcotics Supression Bureau deputy commander in chief Pol Maj-Gen Surapol
Tuantong announced at a news conference that the first suspect was identified as
Worawut Chaihanij, 25, an alleged member of a drug ring in Bangkok's Klongprem
Central Prison with one million meth pills seized. Mr Worawut was arrested at
the Navanakorn Industrial Estate in Pathum Thani province while transporting the
pills to Bangkok from Ratchaburi.
The second suspect was an Iranian identified as Mahmoud Pourjavadi, 56
apprehended in the capital with crystal meth pills (also called ice) contained
in two wine bottles, weighing 1,300 grammes. The Thai police operation was in
collaboration with the US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) in Thailand.
The third suspect was Saitarn Sae-lim, 39. Ms Saitarn was apprehended at
Suvarnabhumi International Airport while she travelling to Thailand from India.
Three kilos of ice, hidden in her baggage, were seized.
Gen Surapol said drug smuggling takes place regularly in the country. Drug rings
have tried to modify their equipment to carry drugs as well as to develop more
sophisticated drug-hiding methods to trick officials. (MCOT online news)
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Three–day censure debate starts Sunday
BANGKOK, Nov 25 - The opposition started grilling the
Yingluck Shinawatra administration Sunday in a three-day timeframe of the
censure debate, as the no-confidence vote is set for Wednesday.
Ms Yingluck’s six-party ruling coalition holds about three-fifths of the seats
in the lower house.
The opposition earlier lodged a no-confidence motion against Prime Minister
Yingluck Shinawatra, her deputy Chalerm Yubumrung, Defence Minister Sukumpol
Suwanatat and Deputy Interior Minister Chat Kuldilok, also former deputy
transport minister, for mismanagement leading to corruption.
Out of the whole 45 hours, the opposition has been given 30 hours to
cross-examine the prime minister and three cabinet members, while the premier
and the three ministers have altogether twelve hours to defend themselves. Three
hours is set aside for possible lawmakers' protests during the debate.
Signed by 155 Democrats and two Rak Prathet Thai Party MPs, the motion calls for
the premier to be questioned for mismanagement and for her failure to deliver
results in accord with her policy statement earlier pledged to parliament. (MCOT
online news)
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Govt ready to revoke Internal Security Act
BANGKOK, Nov 25 - Thai Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra has
security agencies considering lifting the Internal Security Act (ISA), saying
the government is ready to revoke it if the situation has returned to normal.
The ISA has been imposed from Nov 22-30 to cope with the rally of the
anti-government Pitak Siam group which ended Saturday.
The law has been enforced in three capital districts -- Dusit, Phra Nakhon and
Pom Prap Sattru Phai.
Meanwhile, Pol Gen Adul Saengsingkaew, the National Police chief said he would
propose to the prime minister Sunday to revoke the ISA.
Royal Thai Police spokesman Pol Maj Gen Piya Uthayo said 138 protesters were
detained yesterday following the clash between the protesters and the police.
One was charged with insulting officials and three others were charged with
carrying knifes and one used a combination radio without permission.
Out of the total number, 133 have been charged with breaching the ISA. After
questioning, 137 people were released, the police spokesman said.
Regarding the injured in the Saturday’s skirmish, Dr Narong Sahamethapat,
Permanent Secretary for Public Health said that the total number of the injured
was 82, comprising 58 civilians, 23 police officers and one soldier.
The prime minister ordered the public health ministry to take care of the
injured, as 66 people remain hospitalised. (MCOT online news)
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Most anti-government protesters in police custody released
BANGKOK, Nov 25 – Most Pitak Siam protesters have been released from custody
after 138 of them were detained in violation of the Internal Security Act during
Saturday’s rally.
Only two protesters remain in the police custody at the Border Patrol Police
Division, Region 1 in Pathum Thani, adjacent to the capital, while 136 were
released.
The detention came after a clash between a group of protesters and the police as
the protesters were trying to break to a concrete barricade and the police
decided to use tear gas to control the crowd.
The total number of those injured was 68, including seven police officers in the
skirmish during the Saturday’s rally, said Dr Phetchphong Kamthornkitjakarn from
the Erawan Emergency Centre.
Most of them felt burning irritation in the eyes and face caused by tear gas as
well as sustaining head injuries.
National police chief Adul Saengsingkaew, as director of the Centre for the
Administration of Peace and Order concluded the situation via Thailand
Television Pool after anti-government Pitak Siam group leader Gen Boonlert
Kaewprasit called off the rally at the Royal Plaza around 5 pm yesterday.
The national police chief said the police had implemented international
practices in handling the situation.
Tear gas was used as a group of protesters were trying to break through a
concrete barrier erected on a road leading to the rally center at the Royal
Plaza.
The barrier was set up to control access to a restricted area under the
invocation of the Internal Security Act (ISA) while two other roads leading to
the Royal Plaza were open to protesters.
Pol Gen Adul thanked the protest leader’s announcement to end the protest after
around 50,000 protesters joined the rally, falling far short of the targeted
attendance of one million protesters.
Gen Boonlert also said he decided to call off the rally in order to save
protesters' lives. (MCOT online news)
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National Blood Centre thanks blood donors; blood supplies now sufficient
BANGKOK, Nov 25 - The Thai Red Cross Society's National Blood Centre thanked all
blood donors for their donations, as blood supplies are now sufficient for
patients nationwide.
The Thai Red Cross Society had earlier announced that its National Blood Centre
lacked supplies in all blood groups for patients, and asked the public for
urgent blood donations. The volume of blood donated previously had declined to
1,200 units since early November, while the number of blood requests for
patients in hospitals nationwide was as high as 5,000 units.
According to the National Blood Centre, 2,500 units of blood have been donated
recently as targeted, resulting in 3,000 units of blood at the centre's blood
reserve.
The centre encourages donors to donate blood once every three months for
sufficient blood supplies for patients.
Those in good health without underlying diseases can increase the frequency of
their donation from once to twice a year, or twice to three times a year.
Prospective donors can visit the centre directly in Bangkok's Henri Dunant Road
on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays from 8 am to 4.30pm, Tuesdays and Thursdays from
7.30am to 7pm, and on weekends and public holidays from 8.30am to 3.30pm, or
call 0 2256 4300, 0 2263 9600-99 ext. 1101 for more information. (MCOT online
news)
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Public Health to set up more One Stop Crisis Centres to help fight violence against children, women
BANGKOK, Nov 25 - The Ministry of Public Health is planning
to set up more One Stop Crisis Centres (OSCC) in all communities' hospitals
nationwide by next year to help assist children and women victimised by
violence.
Public Health officials and volunteers are to monitor situations for those
likely to become victims of violence such as young girls and mentally or
physically handicapped women.
The United Nations has designated November 25 as International Day for the
Elimination of Violence against Women.
Public Health Secretary-General Narong Sahametapat said Thailand has set up over
600 One Stop Crisis Centers (OSCC) nationwide to help deal with violence against
children and women in the country.
The tendency for violence has clearly increased since 2006 where over 15,000
children and women were hurt or 43 persons/day.
In 2010, the figure rose to over 25,000 victims, or 70 persons/day and 3
persons/hour, of whom 51 percent were children and 49 percent women. Nine out of
ten children victimised were female aged 10-15, followed by youth of 15-18 years
old.
Sexual harassment came first at more than 9,300 people, followed by assaults at
almost 3,000 persons, mostly committed by those in the same family or known and
trusted by them.
According to the statistics, lovers mostly caused violence among couples,
followed by friends. Reasons of violence came from circumstantial factors such
as pornography and unexpected opportunities at home.
Meanwhile, violence against women was found mostly in those aged 25-45, followed
by those aged 18-25. Physical violence occurred in more than 9,400 women while
sexual assault happened to around 2,200 women, mainly due to jealousy. (MCOT
online news)
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