Angkor Wat: Between Mass Tourism and Heritage Conservation
Originally aired on Channel NewsAsia on March 5, 2018
Angkor Wat is considered as one of the greatest cultural heritage sites in Southeast Asia, with millions of tourists visiting the ancient temple ruins each year. But how do officials balance mass tourism with conservation? And could this serve as a role model for other heritage sites in the region? We went there to find the answer.
TRANSCRIPT
A new day over Angkor Wat, one of the largest ancient temples in the world.
Built around 900 years ago, it has seen the rise and fall of the Khmer Empire and now stands as a symbol for modern day Cambodia.
But its popularity as a tourist destination means it's a marvel you won't be able to enjoy in quiet isolation.
About 5 million people visit Angkor Wat and its surrounding grounds every year, and though it may seem over-crowded, park officials disagree.
They say in this area, measuring some 400 square kilometres, there’s still plenty of space to move around.
SOK SANGVAR; Deputy Director General, Authority for the Protection of the Site and Management of the Region of Angkor (APSARA):
"I think we’re very far from the ceiling, from the maximum. I think, once again, it’s really about how you move people around. We’re only 5 million [visitors] and so many space actually in [around] here, so many things you can visit. So we are still full of potential, still! Either you can spend time in the temples, or you can spend time with the villagers in the park."
Tourism plays a key role in Cambodia’s economy. It contributes 12 per cent to the country’s GDP,
and revenue from it amounts to some 4 billion US dollars. Angkor Wat alone pulled in more than a hundred-million in tourist dollars last year.
SAKSITH SAIYASOMBUT; ANGKOR WAT, CAMBODIA:
"It’s been 25 years since and its surrounding areas have been designated as an UNESCO World Heritage site. Now, managing the millions of tourists that are coming here is just one part of the job. The other are the conservation efforts, that is not only much sought after here in Cambodia but also beyond its borders in ASEAN."
LONG KOSAL; Spokesman, Authority for the Protection of the Site and Management of the Region of Angkor (APSARA):
"In ASEAN, we can say proudly that we are leading in stone conservation, as well as brick conservation - because why? Because our temples are made of stone and brick. And we have a lot of Asian friends coming over to request us to share our experience."
Fellow ASEAN members such as Indonesia and Thailand have worked together with Angkor Park officials to restore and maintain the ancient religious sites in their own countries.
One such project is along the Thai-Cambodian border: After their dispute over territory was resolved in 2013, both countries are cooperating on the conservation of temples - such as Preah Vihear - on both sides of the border.
Requests for restoration help have also come from further afield - for example, Syria whose many historic sites have been damaged in the civil war.
As the sun sets another day over Angkor Wat, there’s no let-up in its popularity and importance to Cambodia.
Its people are working hard to ensure that its heritage will remain for future generations to admire - even if you have to share it with others.
Saksith Saiyasombut, Channel NewsAsia, Angkor Wat, Cambodia
Something old, something new at registration for new political parties
Originally aired on Channel NewsAsia on March 2, 2018
The Election Commission of Thailand opened its doors today for the first new political parties to sign up. It marks the first time formal political activities are taking place in Thailand since the 2014 military coup. Among the new parties are some familiar faces. Here's my observation.
TRANSCRIPT
It is the first day where you can register your new political party in Thailand. We’re here at the Election Office of Thailand. What you need is a name - in both Thai and English - a logo and at least 15 members. But that is just the first step.
At least 30 parties have come here to sign up and many familiar faces are among them. One of them is the New Palang Dharma Party, it is the spiritual successor of the old Palang Dharma Party of Chamlong Srimuang. Now their policy platform is a "rule of good virtue and good morals" - a "Dharmacracy" so to speak. But according to the founder that is not a contradiction to the democratic system itself.
RAWEE MACHAMADOL; Founder New Palang Dharma Party:
"The party’s ideology is based on the concept of "Dharmacracy" which does not contradict democratic system. But our policies will based on this ideology and those will be a true and just policies. We disagree with Western democracy, because it’s starting to show its failures in many places like the USA, England and Europe, which were supposed to be the role models of democracy"
Now the big question here is who else is going to sign up in the following days. There have been some rumors and some talk that the group of former protest leader Suthep Thuagsuban is also going to come here to register their political party.
Now if you remember, Suthep Thuagsuban’s protest rallies against the government of Yingluck Shinawatra back in 2013 and ’14 paved the way for the military coup.
So the concern among some people is that this party and other parties are only there to support the current military government and prime minister General Prayuth Chan-ocha in a post-election scenario.
Nevertheless, going forward, there are still some hurdles for political parties new and old alike. Under current rules, they’re not allowed to campaign publicly whatsoever. Public gatherings of more than 5 people are not allowed. So there’s some catch 22 here: even though they are allowed to register, they’re not allowed to campaign.
And another uncertainty is over the next election date. The current military government has delayed democratic elections repeatedly. Prime Minister General Prayuth Chan-ocha has recently said that the next election date will be February 2019, so a year from now on. The question is, will he keep his promise or not?
Saksith Saiyasombut, Channel NewsAsia, Bangkok
Anti-Coal Power Plant Protest Called Off as Govt Scraps Plans
Originally aired on Channel NewsAsia on February 20, 2018
Local environmental activists form the South of Thailand have scored a victory as the Thai Ministry of Energy has signed agreement with them guaranteeing that the plans to build a coal power plant in Krabi have been officially shelved.
TRANSCRIPT
Local environmental activists form the South of Thailand have scored a victory as the Thai government has guaranteed that the plans to build a coal power plant have been officially shelved.
About 100 protesters have camped out in front of Bangkok’s United Nations building, even some of them going on hunger strike until the Thai military government would agree to their demands.
The proposal to build coal powered power plant in the southern provinces of Krabi on the andaman sea, which is a famous tourist spot famed for its beaches and underwater nature. Obviously a coal plant would have not only severely affected the region’s nature, but also the heath of the locals.
The government has previously insisted that additional power plants are necessary to keep up with rising energy demands in the south.
Now, there were plans by to march on government house earlier today but the situation has been ultimately defused as the Ministry of Energy and the protesters have come to an written agreement to ultimately scrap the plans for a coal power plant in the south.
It is a rare display of compromise by the Thai military government, which has outlawed public assemblies and protests ever since they took over powers in a coup. This protest coincides with other small but vocal protests against what could be yet another delay of democratic elections.
Among the protesters here, the mood is evidently jubilant and they are planning disperse and return to their homes in the south of Thailand knowing that the air and nature will be clean and free of a coal plant for the foreseeable future.
Saksith Saiyasombut, Channel NewsAsia, Bangkok
Thailand's Economy Kept Growing in Q4 2017, But Less Than Expected
Originally aired on Channel NewsAsia on February 18, 2018
TRANSCRIPT
Thailand’s economy new by 4.0 per cent in the last quarter of 2017, which is less than expected but still pretty good. Now, the officials and experts have estimated that the economy might have grown by 4.6 per cent in the last quarter of 2017, but in reality it’s less than expected.
Overall, the GDP for the 2017 as a whole year is at 3.9, which is actually the best growth rate since 2012 and definitely the best rate for the Thai military government ever since they have taken over power in a military coup in 2014 - but then again, anything is better when you start at almost zero back in 2014 after months of sustained anti-government protests and political violence.
Now, what are the big portfolios boosting Thailand’s economy? It’s almost a deja vu here, because every time we’ve been talking about Thailand’s economic growth in the past few quarters, it’s always the same winners and losers.
Tourism and export are definitely those portfolios that are sustaining the economic growth. Exports have grown 13 per cent year on year, confirming an upwards trend and also tourism as well. That is the biggest juggernaught, actually.
Last year in 2017, we had a record number of visitors: 34 million people have come here to the Land of Smiles to see the sights and sounds. And just last week during Chinese New Years, it was estimated that 300.000 tourists from China alone would come here. So that already gives you an idea where most of the tourists come from.
Then on the other hand, private investment is still lacking. Public investment, as well, has gone down now that the government has spend all that money in infrastructure - $46 billion, I might add.
And going forward - now, there are still the same problems as well, talking about that deja vu: there’s still few private investment as we mentioned before, and the economic growth is not broad enough, meaning that it doesn’t down to everybody, especially those in the lower-income sector.
For 2018, the question will be for Thailand’s economy is: Is this as good as it gets or is the best still yet to come?
Chinese Opera in Thailand: A Dying Art?
Originally aired on Channel NewsAsia on February 18, 2018
Despite the fact that many in Bangkok still have some form of Chinese heritage (mostly Teochew) in them, many Chinese traditions are at risk of vanishing - one of them being the Chinese opera. But there are still groups out there keeping the performance art alive and adapting to a new generation.
TRANSCRIPT
Nestled in the back alleys and canals of Taling Chan, on the outskirts of Bangkok, is the Jao Mae Tubtim Shrine.
It's been part of the Thai-Chinese community here for more than a century.
Across from the shrine, a group of young women and men are preparing to perform Chinese opera, the same way others before them have done for decades.
Pongsakorn Nanarnkawin is the third generation of his family running a theatre dedicated to Chinese opera.
His parents were performers themselves, when Chinese opera was in its heyday.
PONGSAKORN NANARNKAWIN; Chinese Opera Owner:
"I’m a child of the Chinese opera, I’m sure when my mother was pregnant with me, she was performing Chinese opera. My father was a very skilled instructor from China […] There were no roads here back then so everything came by boat. Even the unloading of the equipment drew in a massive crowd - contrary to today where less and less are watching."
Bangkok has a sizable population of people whose ancestors came from China, and this is reflected in arts such as Chinese opera. But tastes have changed, and theatres like these aren't pulling in the crowds as they used to. Many are now looking at how they can interest the new generation, and keep the heritage alive.
It is estimated that about 70 per cent of Bangkok residents with Chinese heritage are of Teochew descent, but very few speak this dialect today, let alone understand the dialogue in the opera.
So Pongsakorn found ways to get around this.
PONGSAKORN NANARNKAWIN; Chinese Opera Owner:
"When we started to translate it into Thai, people slowly started to come in. After that, I decided to create an original story or adaptations. When we performed for a museum, we retold the story of Mulan, which is pretty popular. So we took bits from it and made a Chinese opera out of it in Thai both in spoken words and singing."
It is hard to say for now, whether Chinese Opera is making a comeback in Thailand, but there is a new generation of performers still passionate about it, and they hope to carry the torch.
PAILIN KAMKAEW; Chinese opera performer:
"I would like to tell people to study Thai-Chinese culture and to keep the tradition alive and so that the Chinese opera can further develop itself."
Thailand's Ministry of Culture has suggested ways to preserve the performing art, but those are still in their infancy -
It could well boil down to succeeding generations to secure a new lease of life for Chinese opera to keep the artform centrestage for more New Years to come.
Saksith Saiyasombut, Channel NewsAsia, Bangkok
British Embassy in Bangkok Sold in Record Deal
Originally aired on Channel NewsAsia on February 1, 2018
The British Embassy in Bangkok has been sold for almost $600 million to a joint-venture that includes the Central Group. Here I explain a little bit of the history of that place and how much more expensive things have gotten around here.
Special thanks to the British Embassy Bangkok for the permission to film in front of their gates.
TRANSCRIPT
Back in 1922, when the British Embassy moved in here for the first time, there was nothing around it but farmlands and water buffaloes.
But a lot has changed in almost a century in what is now considered to be one of the most expensive areas in Bangkok.
How expensive? $12,700 per square meter! There are a lot of luxury condos, hotels and many embassies.
Now, the Foreign Ministry in London has announced that they’re selling the British Embassy here for a whopping $600 million. They’re now moving into a rather nondescript office building, 29 stories high, in the commercial district.
The buyers in what is considered to be a record deal is a joint-venture between Hongkong Land and the Central Group, one of the biggest retail giants in the country. And actually right around here we have one of their luxury malls in the neighborhood right next to the British Embassy.
Now Hongkong Land and the Central Group have not responded to inquiries by Channel NewsAsia. But it is expected that they’re going to make an announcement soon and we’re going to see what’s going to happen with this little piece of Bangkok history.
Saksith Saiyasombut, Channel NewsAsia, Bangkok
Thailand Passes Bill, Causing Yet Another Election Delay
Originally published on Channel NewsAsia on January 26, 2018
Thailand's National Legislative Assembly have passed a bill that will delay elections into 2019. This is not the first time that the can has been kicked down the road under the current military government. Here's my report explaining why and what's next.
TRANSCRIPT
It was a long day and night for Thailand’s National Legislative Assembly as they debated for 14 hours before eventually passing a bill that will very likely delay democratic elections into 2019.
The bill on MP Elections has been passed with 213 to zero votes and four abstentions by the fully-appointed parliament. The crucial amendment that they have included is a delayed enforcement of the bill of 90 days after it has been endorsed by The King, which according to the constitution is supposed to happen by this summer.
This and three other electoral laws are required to be done before an election can be held, which were originally aimed for November 2018 later this year. However, now that one of the bills comes into effect 90 days later, it means were are going to miss that date.
But the military government’s legal expert, Deputy-PM Wissanu Krea-ngam, has reassured that the delay won’t be long.
WISSANU KREA-NGAM; Thai Deputy Prime Minister:
"90 days doesn’t mean within 90 days. It means that it’s not in effect before 90 days, it is in effect on the 90th day - no sooner, no later. But the elections will take place WITHIN 150 days [after law comes into effect]. So that can be after 1 month, after 2 months, after 3 months, after 4 months, after 5 months - but no longer than that!"
Nevertheless, we are now looking at the possibility of elections in February 2019 at the latest.
Obviously, the political parties that have been sidelined since the military coup of 2014 and prohibited from any activity - they’re not happy about the prospect of yet another election delay.
WATTANA MUANGSOOK; Former MP, Pheu Thai Party:
"Once you’re in the same boat, you owe the captain a favor. But the National Legislative Assembly has a short memory. They forgot that even though the [military government] appointed them, but their salary doesn’t come from the government, it’s from the taxes of the people who want an election."
One of the pressing questions is how does this affect the military government. Some observers think that they are clinging to power, others say they are just stalling and buying themselves more time.
DR. TITIPOL PHAKDEEWANICH; Dean Faculty of Political Science, Ubon Ratchathani University:
"The NCPO are quite certain that they would be able to maintain power after elections. Now I think they are trying to get more space to think through their strategy and also actually to handle the situation or to make deals, perhaps, with different parties or the Pheu Thai [Party].
It is not the first time that elections have been delayed under Thailand’s military government, which has been at the helm for nearly four years - that is ironically longer than some elected governments in recent history.
Saksith Saiyasombut, Channel NewsAsia, Bangkok
All OK with Taxi OK? Bangkok Modernizes Cab Fleet
Originally published on Channel NewsAsia on January 24, 2018
Bangkok's taxis currently don't have the best reputation and are also under pressure by Uber, Grab and Co. That's why Thai officials want to modernize the roughly 100.000 colorful cabs and make them more passenger-friendly. But not every cabbie is happy about the changes.
TRANSCRIPT
Sporting all the colours of the rainbow, taxis once ruled the streets of Bangkok.
But in recent years, locals and tourists alike have been complaining: Overcharging, rejecting customers, reckless driving... it’s pushing many away to use Grab and Uber.
In order to restore the somewhat tarnished reputation of Bangkok’s taxis, Thai officials have introduced a new set of rules, not only to make taxi rides more safe, more transparent, technologically up to date - but also to catch up with private ride-hailing services like Grab and Uber. But not every cabbie in the city is on board with the changes.
Thailand’s Department of Land Transportation is about to launch "Taxi OK", both a smartphone app for customers AND a scheme to upgrade Bangkok taxis.
But to join the programme, taxis have to install new equipment: GPS trackers, security cameras, an emergency button… and so on.
For some drivers though these technical upgrades are too expensive.
SADIS JAITIANG; President Thai Public Taxi Association:
"But for us independent taxi drivers, the new rules don’t work for us! 'Taxi OK' creates a bigger burden for us. We have no problem with the electronic payment system for example - but we have a problem with the additional equipment like the GPS, because of the additional costs."
Costs the taxi association says run up to more than $900, plus monthly service fees.
But Thai officials say no one has to buy such expensive equipment and has also filed a court injunction against the new rules.
CHERDCHAI SANANSRISAKORN; Deputy Director-General Department of Land Transport:
"The Department of Land Transport has not specified what model or brand they should use - we only have set the technological standards. There are many models and brands they can let us approve and over time, price should not be a problem soon."
About 7,000 taxis have joined the upgrade scheme, but every one will eventually have to meet the new rules, no matter what.
And with that, Thai authorities hope to see Bangkok taxis rule the roads once again.
Saksith Saiyasombut, Channel NewsAsia, Bangkok
Explainer: Thailand's Lese Majeste Law and Why Sulak Sivaraksa Was Not Charged
Originally published on Channel NewsAsia on January 18, 2018
84-year scholar and social activist Sulak Sivaraksa escapes prosecution under Thailand's lese majeste law. He was charged for questioning the historical accuracy of an event that took place way back in the 16th century - or not. Here's my explainer about the law, the charge and why Sulak will not face trial.
TRANSCRIPT
It doesn’t happen very often that a case involving allegations of insulting Thailand’s monarchy is being dropped, but that is exactly what happened to Sulak Sivaraksa. A Thai military court decided not to prosecute the 84-year-old veteran scholar due to lack of evidence.
The case stems from a university seminar in 2014 about a historic event in 1593, where Siamese King Naresuan defeated the Burmese Crown Prince Mingyi Swa in a formal duel on elephants - that is the prevailing Thai historic account that is still being taught today.
But there are no other accounts that confirm this has actually taken place like this, so that’s why Mr. Sulak - like many other historians before him - are questioning this what is now considered a highly-celebrated Thai legend, commemorated by the Thai army on their Armed Forces Day.
Thailand’s lese majeste law states "whoever defames, insults, or threatens the king, queen, heir-apparent, or regent" can be punished with up to 15 years in prison, so it doesn’t cover past and deceased kings. But it the law has been often more loosely interpreted to defend the royal establishment.
Rights groups have criticized this law as harsh and draconian and the number of lese majeste cases skyrocketed in the past decade, estimated in the 1000s, with a very high conviction rate.
This is not the first time Sulak Sivaraksa has faced such a charge before - it is actually his forth. But the reason why he has not been prosecuted is not only that he proclaims himself to be a royalist, but he also enjoys wide respect and support not only here in Thailand, but also around the world. So basically he’s too well-known, too famous. A trial would have sparked huge public outcry and condemnation.
That is a privilege that other defendants do not have.
Since the military coup of 2014, it is estimated that at least 94 people have been prosecuted and 43 sentenced. Just earlier this month, a blind woman was jailed for reposting an article critical of the monarchy on Facebook.
Saksith Saiyasombut, Channel NewsAsia, Bangkok
Former PM Yingluck in UK on business visa: party sources
Originally published on Channel NewsAsia on January 9, 2018
According to Pheu Thai Party sources, former and now fugitive Thai Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra is currently in the UK on a business visa. What this means for her and how - or rather if - the current Thai military government is intensifying their "hunt" to bring her back? Here's my explainer.
TRANSCRIPT
The confirmation by the Thai Foreign Minister Don Pramudwinai is so far the most concrete indication of the whereabouts of former Thai Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra - at least from the Thai official side.
The comment comes after photos of the former, now fugitive Prime Minister have been widely shared online, showing her to be supposedly in the British capital of London.
The photos cannot be independently verified.
The Foreign Minister didn’t say what Thai authorities would do next and whether or not they will seek Yingluck’s extradition, but he said that they have been in touch with their British colleagues. Thailand and the United Kingdom do have an extradition treaty.
It is rumored that Miss Yingluck is seeking a political asylum in the UK, ever since she has failed to show up before a court verdict here in Bangkok last August.
The former PM, who was toppled in a military coup in 2014, was charged with criminal negligence for her government’s mismanagement in a popular, but highly-expensive rice subsidy scheme that cost the country billions of dollars.
She was sentenced later in abstentia to 5 years in prison.
Miss Yingluck herself has yet to make any public comment or statement since she fled Thailand, so until then it looks like that she will remain silent in the UK.
Saksith Saiyasombut, Channel NewsAsia, Bangkok
Puppies and watches put pressure on Thai PM, Deputy PM
Originally aired on Channel NewsAsia on January 4, 2018
Puppies and watches - that's not only are those common items people wish for Christmas - these two things are also putting some pressure on both Thai PM Gen. Prayuth Chan-ocha and his number two, Dep-PM and Defense Minister Gen. Prawit Wongsuwan. Here are some details.
TRANSCRIPT
It is a ruff start to the new year for the Thai government as both its Prime Minister and one of his deputies are under watch for possible violation of anti-corruption laws.
Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha was forced to clarify himself why he spent $215 more than the usual market price for three puppies he bought during an official trip to Sukhothai province late last year.
Initially he said that the extra cash was "moral support" given to the breeder. But since Thai officials are prohibited by law to give out or receive gifts of more than $90, watchdogs have indicated that this is a possible violation of anti-corruption rules.
Now the PM states that these extra costs were for the vaccination of the puppies and he’s willing to re-sell them.
Even more under fire is his number two, Deputy-PM and Defense Minister General Prawit Wongsuwan. He remains completely silent on why he failed to declare over dozen luxury watches in his list of assets that every minister has to submit when entering office.
Over the past few weeks, cyber sleuths have to this point discovered at least 15 expensive watches worn by him, some of them costing as much as $100,000.
The National Anti-Corruption Commission is looking into this matter, but has not provided an update so far.
Both cases come at a somewhat inopportune time for the military rulers who are almost four years at the helm now since the 2014 coup and are risking overstaying their welcome and democratic elections still an uncertainty, despite being announced for November later this year.
Bangkok Bike-Sharing Business Rolls On - But Where Are The Lanes?
Originally published on Channel NewsAsia on January 4, 2018
Mobike, ofo, oBike - more bike-sharing companies are offering their services in Bangkok - a city which roads were not designed for cyclists in mind. So what will the city be doing?
TRANSCRIPT
Of late, more Bangkokians have been seen cycling in the capital…yup,traffic and all.
And this trend seemed to have not gone unnoticed by bike sharing companies – making Bangkok the latest capital in Southeast Asia set to become a battleground for bike sharing service.
The latest contender to enter the market is 'Mobike', starting with a limited soft launch on the grounds of an university campus in Bangkok.
But for the Chinese company, the Thai capital is just the beginning, with plans to expand to other cities in the country as well.
MARK LIN; Head of International City Operations; Mobike:
"We’re quite bullish on the Thailand market in general. Because it’s a very vibrant economy and [has] young demographics. And people are tech-savvy, are willing to try novel, new things. So I think this all fits the criteria of the users we’re looking for."
Like its competitors oBike and Ofo, Mobike is offering bicycles that don’t need to be docked at certain stations and can be simply unlocked via a smartphone app for a small fee.
But is that really enough to get people riding?
SAKSITH SAIYASOMBUT; Bangkok, Thailand:
"Bike-sharing services are one way to get more people riding – and of course, there are the obvious benefits for health and the environment. But while it makes great sense to ride in wide open areas like this university campus here; in downtown Bangkok, the reality is going to be very different."
Bangkok’s roads were not built with cyclists in mind.
Nevertheless, city officials have been pushing for more bike usage in recent years.
More than 300 kilometers of bike lanes have been built in and around the city.
The city administration also have their own bike sharing service – set up since 2013.
So far, it has about 9,700 registered users.
While the city doesn’t mind private bike sharing companies opening up shop in Bangkok, it is concerned about the many implications it has on the traffic.
THANACHAI MEKPRASERTWANICH; Director of Policy and Planning Division, Department of Traffic and Transport Bangkok Metropolitan Authority: "It will benefit the people. But what concerns the city are issues on safety that will come up and the impact of increased number of bikes. In other countries, for example, we’ve seen some problems there ranging from infrastructure, traffic, the understanding of bike sharing, sharing the roads. So when there are more bikes, there’ll be initial impacts."
Something that both the city administration and private bike sharing companies do agree on is the opportunity to offer - in combination with public transport system - a feasible transport alternative in order to combat the notorious traffic jams of Thailand’s capital.
And Thais and tourists alike can discover a whole different perspective of Bangkok - on two wheels.
Don’t forget helmet and perhaps face mask.
Saksith Saiyasombut, Channel NewsAsia, Bangkok
Bangkok residents bundle up as cold spell hits
Originally aired on Channel NewsAsia on December 21, 2018
Bangkok is currently experiencing a cold spell and people in the Thai capital are enjoying mild temperatures in the mid-20s during the day and as low as 15°C in the mornings.
Thai PM considering to lift ban on political activity
Originally aired on Channel NewsAsia on December 20, 2017
Thai Prime Minister Gen. Prayuth Chan-ocha is considering to lift the ban on political activity before eventual democratic elections announced for November 2018. However, there's a catch or two, one of them the proposed usage of Article 44. Here's my explainer.
European Union to re-engage with Thai military government
Originally aired on Channel NewsAsia on December 12, 2017
The European Union's Foreign Affair's Council has decided to re-engage with the Thai military government "on all levels" for the first time since the military coup of 2014. Here's my quick take and analysis by Dr. Titipol Phakdeewanich from Ubon Ratchathani University.
TRANSCRIPT
The EU’s Foreign Affairs Council, consisting of the foreign ministers from all its member states, have decided to re-engage "on all levels" with the Thailand, marking a pivotal change. The EU has suspended high-ranking contacts with the Thai military government since they launched the coup of 2014.
The Council has noted a number of recent steps taken by the Thai military, including the announcement to hold democratic elections in November 2018, despite the fact that the military government has repeatedly postponed and delayed it in the past.
Other countries have gradually relaxed their stance towards Thailand in the past, most recently the United States when President Trump welcomed Thai Prime Minister General Prayuth Chan-ocha to the White House in Washington DC last October. And there’s one reason that many countries are trying to re-engage with Thailand.
DR. TITIPOL PHAKDEEWANICH; Dean Faculty of Political Science, Ubon Ratchathani University:
"But I think that is not only one reason. But it is also about the balance of power between Thailand and China as well and how the European Union want to be part of the region in Southeast Asia. If you can see after the coup, the military government have been trying to open more space for China to move in. This also raised concern for the US and the European Union and - it has been three years."
The move does signal that the EU has realized that the military is staying in power much longer than they have anticipated and will remain an influence in Thai politics even after the elections and thus the complete diplomatic downgrade has proven to be ineffective.
That’s why the EU now wants directly engage with them in order to keep the military government honest on issues such as human rights, personal freedom and the eventual return to democracy.
The Council has also signaled that it is possible to resume talks about a Free Trade Agreement between the European Union and Thailand. It is said that the negotiations were already at an advanced state, but then suspended in the aftermath of the military coup.
The European Union is one of the largest trading partners to Thailand, with bilateral trading worth almost 34 million Euros or 40 million US Dollars.
Saksith Saiyasombut, Channel NewsAsia, Bangkok
First Michelin Guide for Bangkok Revealed
Originally aired on Channel NewsAsia on December 6, 2017
It is probably the worst kept secret in the world that Thailand and its capital Bangkok are renowned by millions and millions for the local cuisine and for the local restaurant scene.
And now they are finally getting honored with their own Michelin Guide. in the first edition for 2018, 98 restaurant and eateries are listed among them: 14 with a one-star Michelin rating, and just three restaurants with a two star rating.
But also among them - it wouldn’t be Bangkok without its street food scene - 28 vendors are mentioned in that and even one of them got one Michelin star: a restaurant that is served by a 72 year old lady that is preparing stir fry dishes and seafood dishes that is well-known amongst locals and tourists alike.
SUPINYA CHANSUTA, Owner & Chef "Jay Fai":
"When it comers to cooking, you have to be serious, and be in control of everything at all times, you can’t trust others, I’m in control of everything - even if it’s difficult for the staff sometimes. THAT’S cooking."
There is no restaurant with a 3 star rating, but that might be for the next year for the Michelin Guide of 2019.
Saksith Saiyasombut, Channel NewsAsia, Bangkok
Michelin Launches First Edition of Famed Restaurant Guide in Bangkok
Originally aired on Channel NewsAsia on December 6, 2018
Millions of tourists travel to Thailand and many of them solely for its famed cuisine. From street food to high-end restaurants, Bangkok has something offer for every palette. Now the Michelin Guide is about to reveal its list of the top spots for the city and Channel NewsAsia’s Thailand Correspondent Saksith Saiyasombut has sampled the appetite for the upcoming reviews.
TRANSCRIPT
It’s no secret that good food can be found in Bangkok almost anywhere, at almost any time, and for any budget.
Whether it's from a street vendor or from a fine dining restaurant.
But that hasn’t always been the case: Chef Norbert Kostner came to the city 50 years ago, when the restaurant scene was just beginning...
NOBERT KOSTNER; Former Executive Chef Mandarin Oriental Hotel Bangkok:
"They got nothing imported, it was already difficult to find a potato. It’s already difficult to find some cream for cooking. And nothing, there was…I think a Wiener Schnitzel was a specialty these times, because it was really the beginning. When I came here, it was the beginning of the tourism coming."
But now the city, known for its culinary diversity, has caught the attention of the inspectors of the Michelin Guide.
SAKSITH SAIYASOMBUT; Bangkok, Thailand:
“The Michelin Guide didn’t actually start out as a guide to fine dining. At the beginning of the 20th century, two French brothers, Édouard and André Michelin published a guide for car owners in France, giving useful information about petrol stations, mechanics, hotels and restaurants. The idea was simple - they owned a tyre company and they wanted car owners to leave home and drive more around France. Today, the Michelin Guide has become a yardstick for high-quality cuisine, and chefs in the foodie metropolis of Bangkok are eagerly waiting to see which restaurants have made it into the prestigious list.”
Accompanied by a large marketing campaign with Thai tourism authorities, the French tyre company hopes to put its mark on the city’s restaurant scene with its famed star ratings and a spot on its Bib Gourmand list.
But not every chef believes a Michelin star - or two or three - will make a big impact on established eateries.
DANIEL BUCHER; Senior Executive Sous Chef, Marriott Marquis Hotel Bangkok:
"Bangkok is already a city with lots of food travelers, Bangkok is already a city with heavy food traffic. But at the same time, I do think the trend effect and the fast pace of Bangkok will kind of wear off the effect of a Michelin star pretty quickly. And if the places that everyone regards as the top places in town have a star or not - I don’t think that makes a huge difference!"
Not everyone will agree. Some say the guide will motivate chefs and restaurants to aim higher... but Michelin stars or not, Bangkok will no doubt continue to draw in foodies to the table.
Saksith Saiyasombut, Channel NewsAsia, Bangkok
Former ASEAN secretary-general Surin Pitsuwan dies aged 68
Originally aired on Channel NewsAsia on November 30, 2017
Former ASEAN secretary-general Surin Pitsuwan died aged 68 on Thursday (Nov 30). Dr Surin, who was also a former Thai foreign minister, died of an acute heart attack, Thailand's Democrat Party said. He collapsed before giving a speech in Bangkok and was rushed to Ramkhamhaeng Hospital, where he was pronounced dead on Thursday afternoon.
Thai PM Prayuth's 5th Cabinet To Be Sworn In
Originally published on Channel NewsAsia on November 30, 2017
We look at the latest cabinet reshuffle of Thai Prime Minister Gen. Prayuth Chan-ocha, who earlier announced that there'll be more civilians and less military officers at the table. So how many are there really and who's new, who's out?
TRANSCRIPT
Ever since the takeover in the coup of 2014, Thailand’s military has posted itself here at Bangkok’s Government House and has been ruling the country for three-and-a-half years and that has been very much reflected in the cabinet line-up.
Until very recently, 12 out of 36 cabinet members, including deputy ministers, have been from the armed forces.
Earlier this month in November, Prime Minister General Prayuth Chan-ocha, who is also the head of the military junta, has announced he would nominate more civilians in the next reshuffle and after many speculations, rumors and constant nagging by reporters, the 5th cabinet of the Prayuth administration has been endorsed by King Maha Vajiralongkorn last Friday.
Yes, there are now 13 civilians among the 18 ministers. But in the whole cabinet line-up there are still 11 military members, which is just one less than the previous one.
And contrary to earlier, many of the government’s senior heavyweights are still staying where they are, that includes Deputy Prime Minister Gen. Prawit Wongsuwan - who also remains as Defense Minister - as well as Interior Minister Gen. Anupong Paochinda and Deputy Prime Minister Somkid Jatusripitak.
In total there are 10 new faces at the table - most prominently at the Ministries of Agriculture and Energy - while at the same time 9 have to leave their jobs entirely, most notably Tourism Minister Korbkarn Wattanavrangkul.
A spokesman for Prime Minister says the reshuffle is aimed to improve the efficiency of the government’s work, but experts say that they’re already preparing for the next year.
THITINAN PONGSUDHIRAK, Director Institute of Security and International Studies, Chulalongkorn University:
"The public perceptions of the military junta and the military government have shift a little bit. I think that this junta was in power, was accepted in power in order to oversee this very sensitive, moving, profound event - the cremation of the late King. But now that it has passed I think that the sell-by date has gone by as well. I think this latest reshuffle was very clear, it is a reshuffle to maintain performance in order to pave the way for the continuity of power after the election."
In October, Prime Minister Prayuth announced that democratic elections will be held in November 2018, so far the most concrete date we heard after may postponements and delays.
The new cabinet will be sworn in by taking an oath in front of King Maha Vajiralongkorn on Thursday evening.
Saksith Saiyasombut, Channel NewsAsia, Bangkok
Excessive pesticides found in popular fruits and vegetables in Thailand
Originally aired on Channel NewsAsia on November 27, 2017
Health authorities are on high alert after a non-governmental organisation found excessive levels of pesticides in samples of 13 fruits and vegetables sold in major supermarkets in Bangkok and four other provinces.