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.
Halal-Tourism: Drawing Muslim visitors to the Land of Smiles
Originally aired on Channel NewsAsia on November 21, 2017
Muslim-friendly hotels and mall prayer rooms pop up in Thailand as the Buddhist-majority country vies for a slice of the growing halal tourism market.
TRANSCRIPT
At first sight this street could be in Damascus or Beirut, but this busy alley is actually in the heart of Bangkok: Soi Nana 3 is a hub of the local Muslim community and another place in the capital that could see more visitors in the near future.
SAKSITH SAIYASOMBUT; Bangkok, Thailand:
"A record 32 million tourists visited Thailand in 2016 and that number is likely to go up this year. While the majority of visitors still come from China, there’s an emerging group that the tourism industry is trying to woo to come here: Muslim tourists from South-East Asia and the middle east. Many businesses are already gearing up to welcome these guests."
Thailand's tourism authority says 5 million tourists from Muslim majority countries visited Thailand in 2016, with the majority coming from Indonesia, Malaysia and the United Arab Emirates.
Market research agency for halal travel destinations, Crescent Rating, says the halal tourist market is one of the world's fastest growing, thanks to the growth of budget flights and a booming Muslim middle class.
And Thailand’s tourism industry was able to catch the trend early, says the managing director of a publication on Muslim-run businesses in Thailand.
EKKARAT MUKEM; Managing Director "The Alami" Magazine:
"I believe that business owners have increasingly seen the potential, the purchase power, the opportunities in muslim tourists. So the trend for halal tourism has been steadily going up and up in the past 4-5 years."
Some big malls in Bangkok already provide halal-only food options and dedicated prayer rooms for their Muslim customers.
But it's the hotels in this mainly Buddhist country that have taken the lead in providing halal facilities and services.
Located a little off the city center in Bangkok, the Al Meroz is the first Muslim-friendly hotel in the capital.
Its general manager says running a halal hotel goes beyond more than not serving alcohol and pork.
SANYA SAENGBOON, General Manager Al Meroz Hotel:
"Because halal is not just H-A-L-A-L, you know, it’s something to do more than just a word saying that. Because- who supplies the food for us? How [do] they grow [it]? How [did] the animal got slaughtered?"
All the rooms in the Al Meroz are designed for its Muslim guests - a prayer rug, prayer timetables and also an indicator pointing towards Mecca, Islam's holiest city.
There's also a Qur’an at the bedside table.
The focus on the Muslim tourist has surprised some, with Thailand a pre-dominantly Buddhist country. But the travel industry as a whole is trying to cash in on that trend and standards for halal tourism in Thailand are being considered.
ITTIRIT KINGLEK; Tourism Council of Thailand:
"The committee from the tourism ministry has not set any guidelines for halal and muslim-friendly tourism. The ministry is currently coming up with a muslim-friendly tourism strategy by getting scholars on board in order to identify our (industry’s) strengths and weaknesses and our capabilities to welcome these tourists."
With up to six million Muslim tourists expected to arrive each year, the Land of Smiles wants to be sure it's ready to give its visitors a happy experience.
Saksith Saiyasombut, Channel NewsAsia, Bangkok
Thais warming up to e-payment systems after PromptPay launch
Originally published on Channel NewsAsia on November 20, 2018
Early this year, the Thai government launched its national e-payment system ‘PromptPay’, the first step towards a cashless society. Here's my recap for Channel NewsAsi.
TRANSCRIPT
The hassles of modern banking are familiar to many: keeping track of bank account numbers and transfer fees, just to name two of them.
But early this year, a new electronic transactions system for Thailand kicked in, the first step towards a cashless society.
SAKSITH SAIYASOMBUT; Bangkok, Thailand:
“In January this year, the Thai government launched its national e-payment system ‘PromptPay’ to make money transfers much easier. So how does it work? Essentially, people can send money between bank accounts by using only their phone or national ID numbers instead of a bank account number. This can be done via online banking, a smartphone app and also on the ATM machine.
Banks are aggressively promoting to get customers to sign up for the service, for example, they're waiving fees for inter-bank transfers of up to 5,000 Baht or US $150; or touting that the government can send you tax refunds, pensions or other benefits right away instead of waiting for a cheque in the mailbox.”
These incentives seem to have worked.
By August, individuals and businesses registered 32 million accounts,
and the e-payment system has seen transfers to the tune of more than 30 billion US dollars.
But some users feel the e-payment system should have more options, while others had concerns about safety and privacy.
VOXPOP WOMAN:
“I don’t feel quite comfortable giving my ID or phone number to strangers. I wish there’d be a different reference number, that’d be more safer for me.”
VOXPOP MAN 1:
“I got a few deals here and there and I’m concerned whether or that there’ll be additional taxes coming along when I sign up for it. I heard that from a friend.”
VOXPOP MAN 2:
“They should expand it to more services, for example paying for credit card or other bills, so it can complete the payment cycle. That should be able to be integrated.”
More e-payment options are in the pipeline for PromptPay, and the recently announced link-up with its Singapore counterpart PayNow, carries definite potential, even though not right away.
TANAWAT RUENBANTERNG; Analyst, Maybank Kim Eng Research:
“Because both systems between Thailand’s PromptPay and PayNow from Singapore were built separately. So it needs some time to connect those two systems together and also to educate people to use this kind of service too. It’ll not be easy, it will take some time but sooner or later not only Thailand and ASEAN people, the whole world is moving to that direction.”
While it will might take some time until you can pay for your street food snacks with your phone, more Thais are already seeing the convenient benefits of e-payment systems, even though this is just the beginning.
Saksith Saiyasombut, Channel NewsAsia, Bangkok
Thai PM Asks Another 6 Questions About Political Future
Originally published on Channel NewsAsia on November 13, 2017
Thai Prime Minister General Prayuth Chan-ocha has invited citizens to give their two cents about Thailand's political future again. This time it's six questions about the Thai junta's own governance and what they think about elected politicians. But critics say the questions are suggestive and are an excuse to find a reason to cling onto power.
TRANSCRIPT
Thai Prime Minister General Prayuth Chan-Ocha has invited citizens again give their views on another six questions he posed, concerning the future of Thai politics.
The six questions can be summarized up with whether or not people are satisfied with the performance of the Thai military government, which has been in power since the 2014 coup and what their opinions are of political parties and elected officials.
Now, with any political activity by other political parties still being banned, the government insists that this form of survey are merely to get a sense, to get a feedback of what people are thinking. But it has also sparked a lot of criticism, especially from political parties, saying that the government is trying to find an excuse to cling on to power.
DR. TITIPOL PHAKDEEWANICH, Dean Faculty of Political Science, Ubon Ratchathani University
“I think it’s meant to continue to discredit politicians in Thailand this kind of syncronizes with the previous rhetoric before the coup, because if you look at the protests before the coup, people were attracted by the rhetoric of ‘bad politicians’ and ‘we have a bad system and now we have to remove them’, so we need a kind what they call in Thailand a ‘khon dee’ - a good person - to be in charge, so we can purify the political system. ”
Those interested can come to one of these 'Soon Dhamrongdhamma', which is a sort of a civil complaint center here in Bangkok and all across the country and they can come in here and fill out this form, but they have to do it the old fashioned way with pen and paper, but they also have to identify themselves with their names on the form itself.
This is could be one of the of the reasons why not may people are coming to one of these centers and this could also be the reason why earlier this year there weren’t many people either, when PM Prayuth was posing 4 questions about Thailand’s political future. Now, the results of that public survey have never been publicly disclosed or even mentioned ever since.
In October, PM Prayuth announced that democratic elections will take place in November 2018. That is, after multiple delays, the most concrete date for new polls so far.
Most recently, the government has failed to deny or reject persistent speculation of setting up their own political party to compete in elections, and that’s why these six questions come in at a very peculiar time.
Saksith Saiyasombut, Channel NewsAsia, Bangkok
Thailand approves shopping tax break to spur year-end consumer spending
Originally aired on Channel NewsAsia on November 9, 2017
The Thai military government has approved a tax break incentive just in time for the holiday shopping season, where people can claim taxes back as much as $450. But while Thailand’s economy is slowly recovering, not everyone will profit from this scheme.
TRANSCRIPT
Christmas comes early in shopping malls, and while this special day is not originally part of Thai tradition, one aspect certainly has been adopted quickly here: the year-end shopping spree.
For the third year in a row, Thailand’s military government is introducing a shopping tax break just in time for the holiday season.
Dubbed "Shop to Help the Nation", it is a bid to boost the nation’s economy before the end of the year.
SAKSITH SAIYASOMBUT; Bangkok, Thailand:
"This is not the first time the military government has introduced such a measure, but never this early in the holiday shopping season. The tax-break incentive usually starts mid-December but this year, it’s starting this Saturday, and it’s only November.
So how does it work? Well, basically during this period, you can go shopping for many things, almost anywhere, and simply file a tax refund claim later. Depending on how much you buy, you’ll be able to get a deduction of up to 15,000 Baht or about 450 US dollars in taxes.
But since you need the receipts to claim for this, shopping in traditional markets, or any place that doesn’t issue receipts, is off-limits. Also, the claims process can be fairly tedious, and the additional paperwork you have to go through might be enough to scare some people off from even taking part. The other thing that might be a deterrent is that there's no tax break for items such as alcohol, tobacco, vehicles, and fuel."
Thailand’s economy may be slowly growing again - with an expected GDP of up to 4 per cent for this year, mostly bolstered by tourism - but public consumption and consumer confidence is still relatively low.
So, to get people spending, the government's taken to giving tax breaks on shopping, but experts say the policy is losing steam.
AMONTHEP CHAWLA; Senior Vice President, CIMB Thai Bank Public Company Limited:
"We see effectiveness of the policy has been diminishing. Because people tend to delay their consumption until the end of the year."
Another problem is that not everyone is benefiting from this.
AMONTHEP CHAWLA; Senior Vice President, CIMB Thai Bank Public Company Limited:
"Those who would benefit from this tax break would be middle class, this who pay taxes - which are not that much in Thailand, there are only 3-4 million people. But those who really need this programme would be a lot more: 20 million people in the labour force who are in the informal sector, in the SMEs, in the agriculture sector - and they don’t have the policies to stimulate their purchasing power to stimulate their income. So the point is, we would rather see pro-income distribution rather than a pro-growth policy."
The government estimates this year's tax break will cost it 60 million US dollars, and although it expects consumer spending to the tune of 300 million dollars, it's going to take more than a year-end shopping spree to help the economy.
Saksith Saiyasombut, Channel NewsAsia, Bangkok
Thais bid final goodbye to beloved King Bhumibol
Originally aired on Channel NewsAsia on October 27, 2017
Thailand bade farewell to late King Bhumibol Adulyadej Thursday in an elaborate, ritual-soaked funeral in Bangkok's historic quarter that gripped a nation mourning the loss of its chief unifying figure.
TRANSCRIPT
It is the end of a long reign as the worldly remains of Thailand’s King Bhumibol Adulyadej is cremated inside the Royal Funeral Pyre, thus releasing his spirits into celestial heaven, according to Thai Buddhist-Hindu mythology.
The Royal Funeral Procession began in the early morning, as the symbolic urn has been transported out of the Grand Palace, where his body has lain for the past year ever since his passing on Oct 13, 2016 at the age of 88.
It was then carried on the Great Victory Chariot, carved out of wood and draped in gold leaf and accompanied by procession of over 2,400, including the late King’s children, Princess Sirindhorn and current King Maha Vajoralongkorn.
Its final destination: the Royal Funeral Pyre, purpose-built over eight months as a grand tribute to His Majesty.
Thousands of Thais were witnessing the proceedings from the sidewalks, many of them having queued up for days just to get a last glimpse of their beloved monarch. And for many, it is an emotional farewell.
For those that couldn’t be near the procession, officials have set up replicas of the pyre or portraits of the late King across the country where citizens could lay sandalwood flowers, a common ritual in Thai funerals.
And here too Thais did not want to pass the opportunity to pay their last respects to their revered monarch, as they came in droves, often waiting hours in line.
VOX POP THAI 1:
“I’m very moved and feel very sad deep inside...it’s like our father isn’t here anymore!”
VOX POP THAI 2:
“I’m glad to attend the funeral, but I’m also very feel sorrowful that His Majesty has passed. I’m very sad about this.”
VOX POP THAI 3:
“I’m very touched by (the funeral ceremony) and by seeing so many people from everywhere paying their last respects to His Majesty.”
SAKSITH SAIYASOMBUT, Bangkok, Thailand:
"The cremation of King Bhumibol Adulyadej marks the end of an era of the most popular monarch in modern Thai history. In 70 years of reign, he built up a legacy in which the royal institution is highly revered, powerful and seemingly untouchable.
For Thailand, this is a watershed moment, as its people have to come to terms with the passing of the only King they know and the dawn of a new era of his son, King Maja Vajiralongkorn."
Saksith Saiyasombut, Channel NewsAsia, Bangkok
Thailand prepares for once-in-a-lifetime Royal Funeral
Originally aired on Channel NewsAsia on October 24, 2017
Today is the beginning of a five day ritual of Thailand's late King Bhumibol royal funeral. The cremation of the body will take place on Thursday, October 26th. In my report for Channel NewsAsia, we look at how Thais are preparing for the once-in-a-lifetime event and how they will remember their late monarch.
TRANSCRIPT
A funeral for a king cannot be left to chance.
That’s why since the beginning of this month, thousands of people have gone tirelessly through their paces to ensure the Royal Cremation Ceremony for Thailand’s late King Bhumibol Adulyadej goes off without a hitch.
At the final dress rehearsal on Saturday, tens of thousands of spectators were at the Grand Palace to witness the procession.
Most Thais will be witnessing a King’s funeral for the first time in their lives.
Just the rehearsal alone left many grappling with their emotions, including the normally stern Thai Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha.
An army of volunteers is training for the big day to manage the quarter of a million mourners expected to enter the grounds of the Grand Palace.
The volunteers say by helping out here, it’s their way to pay back the sacrifices King Bhumibol made for his subjects during his long reign.
"I think that everyone want to come into this area but its space is quite limited. As a volunteer, I will show my respects through my work,” says one volunteer.
"I’ve been doing volunteer works since the beginning. I’m glad that I can re-pay my gratitude for father (the King Bhumibol)," expresses another one.
“I want to do a good deeds for the king. The late king Bhumibol was a great role model for tirelessly doing good deeds,” proclaims a female volunteer.
SAKSITH SAIYASOMBUT; Bangkok, Thailand:
"Tributes to the late monarch have sprung up everywhere across the country, like this elaborate display at the Pak Khlong Talad, Bangkok's biggest flower market.
The passing of King Bhumibol Adulyadej and the royal transition marks a watershed moment for the Thai people. The late king was on the throne for 70 years, long enough for people to remember only this one king and long enough to have built a legacy, which will last long into the future."
The people of Thailand revere their late king.
"I remember him all my life and I’ve seen that His Majesty has been caring about every citizen," remembers one older woman.
"His Majesty has made sacrfices all his life. All his 70 years on the throne, he pledged to look after the country," says a man.
"Deep inside, I’m sad that he is gone. But on the other hand, every Thai is willing to do (good deeds) for His Majesty and to follow his example," says a woman.
King Bhumibol Adulyadej will be cremated in a grand, purpose-built funeral pyre in front of the Grand Palace on Thursday.
His ashes will be enshrined at two nearby Buddhist temples, marking the end of a year-long mourning period.
Saksith Saiyasombut, Channel NewsAsia, Bangkok
Thailand Rehearses Royal Funeral Ceremony
Originally aired on Channel NewsAsia on October 21, 2017
Today was the final big rehearsal before the Royal Funeral of Thailand's late King Bhumibol and already tens of thousands have been waiting around the Grand Palace to see the proceedings, many of them overnight. Here's my short report for Channel NewsAsia.