The Airports of Thailand (AoT) is poised to embark on the soft launch of Satellite 1 (SAT-1), a cutting-edge terminal situated within Suvarnabhumi International Airport, scheduled for September 28th. This undertaking comes on the heels of an extensive trial period, wherein the operational capabilities of SAT-1 were rigorously tested with the involvement of 180 simulated passengers and their accompanying luggage.
The trial process was conducted in collaboration with Thai Airways, which generously provided its cabin crew and aircraft to facilitate the procedure. Additionally, key authorities such as Immigration Division 2, the Cargo Clearance Customs Bureau, Aeronautical Radio of Thailand, and Bangkok Aviation Fuel Services meticulously observed and scrutinized the trial's various facets, as noted by Mr. Kittipong Kittikachorn, Director of Suvarnabhumi.
It is imperative to underscore that this comprehensive trial encompassed a wide spectrum of activities, including aircraft operations, the seamless flow of arriving and departing passengers, the efficient handling of transfer passengers, the optimization of baggage handling systems, and the coordination of cargo operations.
The upcoming trials, slated for September 20th, will be executed by Thai AirAsia X and Worldwide Flight Services Bangkok Air Ground Handling Co Ltd, followed by a trial on September 20th, spearheaded by Thai Vietjet, specifically tailored to assess the passenger experience for departing flights during nighttime hours, as per Mr. Kittipong's announcements.
During the soft-opening phase, which spans from September 28th to October 28th, SAT-1 will be exclusively accessible to three prominent airlines: Thai AirAsia X, VietJet Air, and Emirates. The overarching objective of this endeavor is to alleviate congestion woes at the primary terminal, with SAT-1 anticipated to achieve full operational status by December of the current year. Notably, SAT-1 is anticipated to accommodate a staggering 15 million passengers annually, thereby enabling Suvarnabhumi Airport to expand its capacity to a remarkable 60 million passengers per annum, reflecting a substantial 33% increase, as emphasized by Mr. Kittipong.
SAT-1, a state-of-the-art terminal, boasts an impressive array of facilities, including 28 contact gates, of which eight have been specifically designed to accommodate Code F aircraft, such as the double-decker A380 superjumbo jets, while the remaining 20 gates are tailored to cater to Code E aircraft, exemplified by Boeing B747s. Furthermore, this four-story edifice encompasses an expansive total floor area of 216,000 square meters, with two subterranean levels housing the Automated People Mover (APM) train system, among other pivotal components.
The APM train system, operating at a maximum speed of 80 kilometers per hour, is poised to seamlessly connect SAT-1 and the existing passenger terminal. Remarkably, each train is capable of accommodating 210 passengers per trip, translating to an impressive throughput of approximately 6,000 passengers per hour, with each journey consuming a mere three minutes.
With the inauguration of SAT-1, international passengers will be relieved of the need to rely on shuttle buses to access their respective gates, marking a significant enhancement in overall airport efficiency and passenger experience.
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is shifting its focus towards promoting Thailand as a "sustainable destination" committed to environmental protection, according to TAT Governor Thapanee Kiatphaiboon.
The agency aims to educate foreign tourists about the country's efforts to align with global sustainability trends. Thapanee stressed that Thailand seeks to become a high-value and sustainable tourism destination while addressing environmental challenges such as wildfires in northern Thailand, which impacted tourism for extended periods.
The TAT's strategy, known as "Sustainably Now," aims to transform the tourism sector by embracing sustainable tourism goals (STGs) aligned with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals. The agency also introduced the Sustainable Tourism Acceleration Rating (STAR) project, awarding stars to operators improving their sustainability practices. The goal is to have at least 85% of participating tourism operators achieve three to five stars by 2025.
Meaningful travel experiences have been identified as a top priority for foreign tourists visiting Thailand, as revealed by a recent survey.
The TAT's efforts extend to partnerships, digital technology adoption, and niche markets, all aimed at enhancing Thailand's tourism industry while prioritizing sustainability. A pilot project in five provinces focuses on encouraging tourism businesses to offer environmentally friendly services.
The New Minister of the Digital Economy and Society Mr. Prasert Chantararuangthong told TPN media this week. "Many Thai people are benefitting from Facebook more than online scammers. There are more than 45 million Facebook users in Thailand. Many run small businesses and use Facebook live to market their products and services. It is the primary communication tool for many businesses as well."
"Therefore, any plan to shutdown Facebook in Thailand is very sensitive. We need to be very careful about how we go about to solve online scams and problems. Closing Facebook is not the real solution to get rid of these online scammers. We will discuss the problem further with Facebook executives from Singapore soon for better solutions." Prasert concluded.
Thai Smile slowly winds down operations as THAI resumes domestic flights
Thai Airways International (THAI) will from October 1resume flights to nine domestic destinations previously served by its low-cost subsidiary Thai Smile, a source said on Saturday.
From its home base at Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi International Airport, THAI will fly to Krabi, Khon Kaen, Phuket, Narathiwat, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Hat Yai, Udon Thani and Ubon Ratchathani.
The changes will be effective during the winter flight schedule from October 2023 to March 2024, a THAI source familiar with the matter said.
From October 1, THAI will offer eight flights daily between Bangkok and Phuket. Then from October 29, the national carrier will offer five flights daily between Bangkok and Chiang Mai, and three flights daily between Bangkok and Udon Thani from December 1.
From January 1, THAI will offer two flights daily between Bangkok and Krabi, four flights daily between Bangkok and Khon Kaen, one flight daily between Bangkok and Narathiwat, two flights daily between Bangkok and Chiang Rai, three flights daily between Bangkok and Hat Yai, and two flights daily between Bangkok and Ubon Ratchathani.
All the flights will use Airbus A320 aircraft formerly operated by Thai Smile, except for the Bangkok-Phuket route, which will see an addition of Boeing 777-200 ER, according to the source.
This wide-body, 292-seat jetliner is intended to help THAI cope with the large volume of tourists expected to fly to the island resort during the upcoming high season, the source said.
Thai Smile will continue its flights between Bangkok and Phuket until the end of November before shifting to THAI's airline code TG from December 1, the source added.
Under THAI's business rehabilitation plan, Thai Smile will wind down operations and prepare to merge with its parent airline in early 2024.
In 2022, Thai Smile had a network of 16 destinations in Thailand and 14 destinations in Asia served by A320s. The low-cost airline started flying in July 2012 on domestic and regional routes, leaving THAI to concentrate on long-haul international routes.
Yesterday, Phuketauthorities refutedallegations that the island has been overrun by Russians, including members of the mafia. These claims were sparked by a report in Al Jazeera earlier this week, which highlighted concerns among locals. The locals fear that Russian touristsare snatching jobs usually held by Thais, operating unlawful businesses, and causing a surge in property prices, making it increasingly challenging to rent on the island.
Official data reveals that over 400,000 Russians arrived in Phuket between January and July this year. This figure is double the number of visitors from Russia before the onset of the nation's war against Ukraine in February 2022. Many Russians have fled the after-effects of the war in Ukraine and found a sanctuary in Phuket. This influx has been facilitated by the introduction of Russian visitor bans by many other countries.
Several Russians have initiated businesses on the island, purchased properties, and secured long-term visas. Sergey Lavrov, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation, inaugurated the Consulate General of the Russian Federation in Phuket at the Royal Phuket Marina on July 15.
There has been an upsurge of Russian-only enterprises using exclusively Russian language. Instances of illegal workers have also been discovered, such as the arrest of three Russian women working unlawfully at a beauty salon in Cherng Talay on July 18 by Phuket Immigration.
Prayut Thongmusik, the president of the Phuket van drivers' club, voiced his concern about the situation: "We're affected by these Russians who came to run the whole tourism business," he said. "They drive personal vehicles that have not been registered with the Thai transport department as service vehicles, picking up tourists who book them through a Russian app, offering nearly 20% cheaper fees than us. They make sure all the roubles stay with the Russians."
The number of Russian nationals in Phuket is predicted to rise further, owing to the ongoing war in Ukraine and a recent Phuket tourism roadshow held in Moscow, which attracted representatives from over 80 travel agencies, reported The Phuket News.
However, at an official press conference held yesterday at the Phuket Immigration Office, authorities sought to dispel the report and alleviate concerns. Police Major General Sermphan Sirikong, Commander of the Phuket Provincial Police and Immigration Bureau Police Colonel Thanet Sukchai, along with tourism industry representatives, provided clarification.
General Sermphan stated that over the past five years, there have been only three crimes involving Russian citizens resulting in arrests, and most disputes were business-related with no evidence of mafia involvement detected. He further clarified that the number of long-term Russian tourists is minimal and has not impacted the island's property prices. Regular checks have found no taxis operated illegally by Russians.
Colonel Thanet announced that checks will become more stringent in the coming months to ensure no foreigners are staying illegally on the island, especially after the new Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin confirmed a free-visa travel privilege for Chinese visitors on Monday, as part of efforts to further boost the country's economy.
Colonel Thanet emphasized the importance of the notification of residence under the Immigration Act 1979 to verify the address of people renting properties. Phuket Immigration reported that a total of 401 foreigners were caught overstaying in August, 94 of which were Russian.
Concluding the press conference, General Sermphan assured that they are aware of people's concerns and will continue to work with them to address any significant issues. He also shared that complaints can be directed via the Traffy fondue application or by contacting the Phuket Provincial Immigration hotline number, 087-911-5850. Follow more of The Thaiger's latest stories on our new Facebook page HERE.
A massive fire erupted at the Four Regions Floating Market in Pattaya on Thursday night, quickly engulfing the market due to its primarily wooden structures.
On the evening of September 7, a massive fire erupted at the Four Regions Floating Market in Pattaya, quickly engulfing the market due to its primarily wooden structures. The fire left a path of destruction in its wake, particularly affecting the waterside restaurants and shops, resulting in substantial estimated damages reaching tens of millions of baht.
Firefighting teams from Pattaya, along with more than 20 additional firefighting vehicles from neighboring districts, urgently assembled to battle the blaze. Moderate rainfall provided some relief, aiding in the firefighting efforts. After more than an hour, the fire began to subside but was not completely extinguished. Intensive efforts persisted to contain the fire and prevent it from spreading further. It took four hours to finally bring the blaze under control.
The total area of the Four Regions Floating Market encompasses approximately 19 rai (approximately 7.6 acres), with an estimated one rai (approximately 0.4 acres) affected, primarily within the zone housing restaurants and waterside shops. The exact cause of the fire remains undetermined, pending further investigation. The estimated damage is believed to be tens of millions of baht. Fortunately, there were no reported fatalities, with only one minor injury due to smoke inhalation.
Established in 2008 with an estimated budget of 100 million baht, the Four Regions Floating Market in Pattaya stands as a cultural tourism destination, providing insight into the traditional Thai riverside way of life. It features various attractions, including street food stalls, paddleboats, and cultural exhibitions representing the four regions of Thailand. Currently, it remains a highly popular tourist destination, drawing visitors from around the world.
The fire left a path of destruction in its wake, particularly affecting the waterside restaurants and shops, resulting in substantial estimated damages reaching tens of millions of baht.It took four hours to finally bring the blaze under control. Fortunately, there were no reported fatalities, with only one minor injury due to smoke inhalation.
Tom kha gai takes 1st place among world's best chicken soups
TasteAtlas, a website for traditional dishes, local ingredients, and authentic restaurants, has revealed its 2023 food ranking on the "10 Best Rated Chicken Soups in the World." Tom kha gai from Thailand takes first place in the ranking.
The top ten chicken soups are as follows:
1. Tom kha gai from Thailand;
2. Ciorba radauteana, Romania;
3. Zeama, Moldova;
4. Chorba beïda, Algeria;
5. Supă de pui cu tăieței, Romania;
6. Bela čorba, Serbia;
7. Sopa de gallina india, El Salvador;
8. Inchicapi, Peru;
9. Rosół z kury, Poland;
10. Chikhirtma, Georgia.
Tom kha gai is chicken coconut soup with galangal, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, bird's eye chilies, and mushrooms. This comforting soup has mainly sour and salty flavors, supplied by fish sauce, tamarind juice, and palm sugar.
Cabinet members led by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, seated, ninth from right, pose at Government House before taking their oaths of office in front of Their Majesties the King and Queen at Dusit Palace on Tuesday. (Photo: Chanat Katanyu)
A draft policy statement has been handed out to parliamentarians highlighting the Srettha government's priorities, including the 10,000-baht digital wallet scheme, addressing debt problems, cutting energy costs and revising the charter.
The 52-page document submitted to MPs is for studying before Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin delivers it to parliament on Sept 11. The document divides the government work plans into short-term, mid-term and long-term.
One of the top priorities featured in the short-term plan is to jumpstart the economy through the Pheu Thai Party's 10,000-baht digital wallet scheme, which is expected to be launched early next year.
The government expects an increase in tax revenue from the stimulus programme and touts the scheme as laying a foundation for the country's digital economy and increasing efficiency and transparency in the country's payment system.
Debt problems in the agriculture and business sectors will be addressed while measures will be rolled out to ease household debt burdens and high operating and financial costs for SMEs, according to the draft statement.
The government will also seek to lower energy costs, including electricity, fuel and cooking gas, revamp energy use and promote the production of clean and renewable energy sources.
The document said the government intends to boost tourist arrivals through a visa-free scheme for target countries and a fast-track visa scheme for Mice (meetings, incentives, conventions, exhibitions) visitors.
The short-term plan also involves a proposed revision of the 2017 charter where the government will explore ways to ensure wide public participation in the process.
For middle-term and long-term plans, the government plans to increase revenue through finding new markets abroad for Thai products and services.
It will also speed up negotiation frameworks on free trade agreements (FTA) with prospective partners and improve the approval process for foreign investment applications.
The document said the government will support restructuring security agencies to prepare them for emerging security threats and challenges. Military reforms will include improving transparency in defence spending, replacing military conscription with a voluntary programme, and cutting back on the number of generals.
The draft also said the government would look to enhance the universal healthcare scheme and carry on with carbon-neutral policies.
Many Russians come to Phuket to escape economic turmoil and the possibility of being conscripted after Russian President Vladimir Putin's full-scale invasion of Ukraine [File: Jorge Silva/Reuters]
Bangkok, Thailand – A huge influx of Russians in Phuket is producing a backlash from locals, amid complaints of a booming Russian-only economy that covers everything from hair salons to taxi firms.
More than 400,000 Russians arrived on the Thai tourist island between January and July this year, according to authorities, double the number of visitors before Russia's war against Ukraine.
Many have secured long stay-visas, buying properties and establishing businesses to escape economic turmoil and the possibility of being conscripted following Russian President Vladimir Putin's full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
In July, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov visited Phuket to inaugurate a new consulate to handle the surging number of citizens seeking work and leisure on the island.
The growing Russian presence is bringing rapid change.
Property prices have surged, which, although a boon to Thai owners and realtors, has made it more difficult for renters to find an affordable place on the island.
Russian-only businesses have sprung up, often run through Russian language apps and staffed by people working illegally.
There have also been reports of Russian sex workers operating along the nightlife epicentre of Bangla Road, mainly for Russian clientele.
'Roubles stay with the Russians'
"We're affected by these Russians who came to run the whole tourism business," Prayut Thongmusik, the president of the Phuket van drivers' club, which represents 200 tourist minibus operators, told Al Jazeera.
"They drive personal vehicles that have not been registered with the Thai transport department as service vehicles, picking up tourists who book them through a Russian app, offering nearly 20 percent cheaper fees than us."
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"They make sure all the roubles stay with the Russians," Thongmusik added.
On local Facebook pages, posts capture the growing anxiety of locals who fear their jobs are under threat and that Thais are becoming the on-paper owners of tourist businesses on behalf of Russian investors.
Some posts include photos of Russian taxi pick-ups and people believed to be Russian workers.
"These guys make it themselves, eat it themselves," said one Facebook user. "Russians are stealing Thai jobs. Things will get out of control if we don't get on top of it."
Amid growing discontent, Phuket's police force last month announced the arrest of a number of illegal workers, some of whom had been pointed out by angry locals.
"We arrested three Russian nationals who opened a hair salon after we got a complaint lodged by a Thai citizen," Lieutenant Colonel Thongchai Matitam told Al Jazeera. "We charged them with breaking the law by doing the jobs reserved for Thais only."
Phuket is one of Thailand's most popular resort islands [File: Jorge Silva/Reuters]
There are also concerns that the influx of Russian money could be accompanied by business rivalries and crime.
On June 8, Phuket immigration authorities arrested a Kazakh man on suspicion of shooting Russian businessman Dmitry Aleynikov, 44, in broad daylight while he was sitting in his car outside a busy cafe.
On Monday, a 31-year-old Russian man was arrested on the resort island of Koh Samui over his alleged links to scammers operating out of Cambodia.
Multiple Russian criminals have been detained while hiding out in other resorts including Pattaya, which in recent years gained a reputation as a base for fugitive Russian mafia figures.
While authorities in Phuket stress that the overwhelming majority of Thailand's Russian population is law-abiding, some Russians in Phuket express concern about their nationality being unfairly singled out.
"Even the criminals people see may not be Russians," Russian expat Sergey Malinin, a tour operator who has lived in Thailand for 25 years, told Al Jazeera.
"To Thai people, all of them are Russians even though they may be Uzbeks, Ukrainians, Georgians".
Malinin said some Russians work illegally due to Thailand's restrictive laws on foreign workers, but the big picture is growing cultural and economic ties between the countries.
"Some Russians become criminals because they don't have legal work in Thailand. They can't get any more visas… they have money but they can't find jobs, the only way to stay is to break the law," he said.
Russians' substantial contribution to the local economy is especially significant given the sluggish post-pandemic rebound of tourism from China, which is grappling with a slowing economy.
More than 400,000 Russians visited Phuket between January and July [File: Jorge Silva/Reuters]
Luxury boat seller Simpsonmarine Phuket said its biggest customers are Russians buying yachts worth many millions of dollars, with the number of Russian buyers rising by 10-20 percent since the war.
On August 15, the Phuket Tourist Association sent a delegation to St Petersburg for a roadshow aimed at pulling in revenue of about $1.7bn from its number-one market, Thai state media reported.
Meanwhile, real estate prices are surging as Russians seek homes away from a conflict with no end in sight.
"Phuket has a limited amount of land, so real estate on the paradise island will only go up in price," Sofia Malygaeva, a Russian property agent based in Phuket told Al Jazeera, adding that many customers are buying off-plan for 20-30 million baht ($565-$850,000).
"Customers are from Moscow to Siberia, they still have businesses in Russia or work remotely, but they want their family to live in Phuket with kids," she added.
THE CONFIDENCE of the Pheu Thai-led government under Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin will be adversely affected if de facto party boss Thaksin Shinawatra continues to literally keep himself as a convicted inmate out of jail for longer than appropriate, according to a noted academic.
Thammasat University law lecturer Prinya Thaewanarumitkul has posted on his Facebook page to say the Pheu Thai-led government will almost certainly be taken to task by members of society for allegedly applying double standards in favour of the former prime minister who might possibly be allowed to literally keep himself outside of Bangkok Remand Prison after he has recovered from "illnesses" at Police Hospital or any other hospital.
Prinya commented that the Srettha government's integrity and stability will be more or less affected if the de facto Pheu Thai boss manages to literally keep himself out of jail, given a contentious excuse of "illnesses" such as a cardiac disease.
In the mid-morning of Aug.22, Thaksin was brought from Don Mueang airport to the Supreme Court and then to Bangkok Remand Prison where he stayed barely a half day before he was transferred in the middle of the night to Police Hospital where he has been admitted for "illnesses" since.
The de facto Pheu Thai boss who had returned from 17 years in self-exile abroad since he was ousted in the 2006 coup has allegedly taken part in power play allocating portfolios of a Pheu Thai-led cabinet among coalition partners literally from his hospital bed, giving instructions via a cellphone to his right-hand man/Pheu Thai wheeler-dealer Bhumtham Wechayachai.
Nevertheless, Thaksin has already been granted royal pardon to the extent that his earlier-convicted, eight-year jail sentence due to separate cases of convicted misconduct be curtailed to only one year.
Former deputy prime minister Wissanu Krea-ngam has earlier said the former prime minister might probably be released on parole after he has served at least one-third of his one-year term behind bars.
Nevertheless, an anti-Thaksin activist group has earlier charged that the deposed prime minister had feigned his way to hospital and accused the Ministry of Justice in charge of the Department of Corrections of using double standards to satisfy such a "privileged" convicted inmate who had globetrotted for many years and never been reported of any serious illnesses other than Covid-19 whilst living in Dubai.
According to the Thammasat law lecturer, Thaksin may continue to stay outside of the prison for longer than 30 days if he is given a written approval from a doctor who has been specifically treating him at the hospital as well as the director-general of the Department of Corrections.
In case that the de facto Pheu Thai boss may physically keep himself out of jail for longer than 60 days, he will need a written approval from the undersecretary of justice and in case of longer than 120 days, he will need one from the minister of justice, Prinya pointed out.
The academic said the Pheu Thai-led government will almost certainly get in a precarious state if other convicted inmates are not entitled to the same privileges as granted to the de facto boss of the party.
BANGKOK (NNT) – The Department of Tourism has said it fully supports the government's initiative to potentially extend visa-free arrivals to more nationalities. The move is expected to boost Thailand's tourism sector.
Director-General Chaturon Phakdeewanich said a well-executed visa waiver policy could heighten Thailand's competitive edge, especially considering the lower tour package costs in the country.
He emphasized that the government must weigh its options between a full visa waiver and merely waiving the visa application fee. Additionally, he stressed the need for alternative revenue streams to offset lost visa application revenues.
Chaturon assured that the department is ready to spearhead this policy, but emphasized the need for a thorough vetting process to safeguard national interests.
Thai authorities are projecting the number of international visitors to reach as high as 27.4 million by the end of the year, followed by further growth next year due to various tourism-promoting campaigns and policies.
Bangkok, 1 September 2023 – Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaiboon today began her role as the new Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT).
Having been with the TAT in 1999 after earning a master's degree in science from the University of Surrey in the UK, Ms. Thapanee has held various positions within the organisation, including Deputy Governor for Tourism Products and Business, and most recently Deputy Governor for Domestic Marketing.
In her most recent role as TAT Deputy Governor for Domestic Marketing, Ms. Thapanee initiated various tourism initiatives to help drive Thailand's economy. Among them included the workation in Thailand, faith and religious tourism routes, and solo travels – which helped stimulate 151.45 million domestic trips in 2022 – about 88% of the record year in 2019 – and generated 641.5 billion Baht.
In her role as Deputy Governor for Tourism Products and Business, Ms. Thapanee was recognised for her leadership in initiating the Amazing Thailand Safety and Health Administration (SHA) certification programme that enabled hotels and services to meet specific health and safety standards. The programme became a mandatory requirement for hotels seeking to register as quarantine facilities during the period of strict COVID-19 control measures and also received global recognition in alignment with the WTTC SafeTravels protocols.
She also initiated the Special Tourist Visa (STV) scheme to promote the reopening of Thailand, which led to subsequent entry schemes, including Villa Quarantine, Yacht Quarantine and Golf Quarantine, as well as the Phuket Sandbox, which has been recognised internationally as the model for the country's reopening.
Recognised as a social media and technology savvy individual, Ms. Thapanee has played a key role in utilising technology and social media in the promotion and development of Thailand's tourism. Some of her outstanding achievements in this area have included the Google Street View project in cooperation with Google Thailand, and the 'Amazing Thailand' social media platforms.
As an advocate of Thailand's tourism, Ms. Thapanee has been instrumental in the development of various special interest tourism products, including health and wellness tourism, yacht and cruise tourism, and community tourism, as well as the "King's Wisdom for Sustainable Tourism" project, which won the PATA Grand Awards 2018 in the category of Education and Training.
In her earlier years with the TAT, Ms. Thapanee was widely recognised for her contribution towards the promotion and development of intra-regional travel within the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS).
🏍️ 181 people died on motorcycles in Thailand last week. Many deaths and serious injuries could be avoided if the Thai government ran road safety campaigns and the police enforced the law.
🇹🇭 THAI NEWS REPORTS: #RoadSafety summary for 27 August - 2 September:
📌 214 killed (30/day) and 15,267 injured in road accidents
📌 14 children and 9 foreigners killed
📌 84% of fatalities were motorcyclists
📌 9,624 people have been killed and 537,104 injured this year
Experience the thrill of Thailand's famous long-boat racing this September-November 2023
Full of colour, culture, merit-making, fun and fast-paced boat races, there are events held in all four regions of the country to celebrate the Buddhist Lent.
TAT Newsroom
Long Boat Racing Festival, Nan
Bangkok, 1 September 2023 – The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) would like to invite tourists to enjoy this year's annual long-boat racing festival, an exciting time of colour, culture, merit-making and fast-paced on-the-water races, which is celebrated in various locations around Thailand to mark the Buddhist Lent or Khao Phansa period.
The thrilling long-boat races are an exhilarating sight to behold. Each year, they draw crowds of enthusiastic locals and tourists to cheer on the racers. The following races are listed region-by-region.
CENTRAL REGION
Nonthaburi Long-boat Racing Festival 2023 9-10 September 2023, Nonthaburi Pier (Tha Nam Non)
Along with long-boat racing featuring 30 and 55 oarsmen competitions, there will be a Royal Cup procession, traditional Thai long drum procession, and a focus on promoting awareness of conservation of the Chao Phraya River.
Phichit Long-boat Racing Festival 2023 September 2023, Phichit
These races feature five categories – large boats with 55 oarsmen, medium-sized boats with 40 oarsmen, small-sized boats with 30 oarsmen, general boats, and boat race teams within Phichit.
Racing schedules: 25 August-3 September: Nan River, Wat Tha Luang 20-22 September: Yom River (night races), Wat Tha Bua Thong 23-24 September (the winner's boat race): Yom River, Wat Tha Bua Thong.
For more information, contact the TAT Nakhon Sawan Office on Tel. +66 (0) 5622 1811-2 or via E-mail: tatsawan@tat.or.th / tatsawan69@gmail.com.
Nan Long-boat Racing Festival 2023 16 September – 26 November 2023, Nan
Along with entertainment and product sales, these races feature five categories – large boats with 48-55 oarsmen, medium-sized boats with 35-40 oarsmen, small-sized boats with 25-30 oarsmen, antique boats, and boat race contest.
Racing schedules: 9-10 September: Tha Wang Pha Racing Festival at Tha Wang Pha Phatthana Bridge 14 September: 'Slak Hor Khao Tum Din' long-boat racing at Tha Wang Pha District 16-17 September: traditional long-boat racing at Northern Phatthana Bridge 23-24 September: 'Slakphat' charity long-boat racing (Wat Phra That Chang Kham Worawihan) at Northern Phatthana Bridge 7 October: Nan Long-boat Racing Festival at the Ngaeng Boat Racecourse, Pua District 14-15 October: Nan Long-boat Racing Festival at the Nam Pua Boat Racecourse, Wiang Sa District 23 October: traditional long-boat racing Festival at Ban Tha Lo, Phu Phiang District 28-29 October: End of Buddhist Lent or Ok Phansa Tan Kuai Salak Wat Bun Yuen, at Ban Pa Kluai Boat Racecourse, Wiang Sa District 30 October: Tak Bat Devorohana Long-boat Race, Wat Sila Mongkhon, at Ban Tha Wang Pha Boat Racecourse, Tha Wang Pha District 11-12 November: Nan Long-boat Racing Festival to celebrate the Royal Kathin Ceremony at Northern Phatthana Bridge 25-26 November: Nan Long-boat Racing Festival at Khwang Klong Saui Nam Sai Racecourse, Pua District;
For more information, contact the TAT Nan Office on Tel. +66 (0) 5471 1217-8 or via E-mail: tatnan@tat.or.th, tatnan2561@gmail.com.
NORTHEASTERN REGION
Bueng Kan Long-boat Racing Festival 2023 1-10 September 2023, Mekong River, Bueng Kan
These races feature five categories – large boats with 50-55 oarsmen (general boats, and boat race team within Bueng Kan), medium-sized boats with 25-30 oarsmen (general boats, and boat race team within Bueng Kan), and small-sized boats with 10-15 oarsmen.
Since 1967, local boats and boats from neighbouring provinces as well as from Lao PDR. and Vietnam have been invited to compete in these races in the spirit of furthering connections with neighbouring countries that share the Mekong River. As well as the races, there will be fairs and trade shows and OTOP products from around Thailand on sale.
Racing schedules: 1-3 September: large boats with 55 oarsmen, medium-sized boats with 30 oarsmen, general boats, small-sized boats with 10 oarsmen, and boat race teams within Bueng Kan. Race venue: Mekong River, Ho Kham municipality. 15-17 September: medium-sized boats with 25-30 oarsmen (general boats, and boat race team within Bueng Kan), small-sized boats with 12 oarsmen, and housewife boat with 10 oarsmen. Race venue: Wat Purima Pradit, Bung Khla District.
For more information, contact the TAT Udon Thani Office on Tel. +66 (0) 4232 5406-7 or via E-mail: tatudon@tat.or.th.
Kalasin Long-boat Racing Festival 2023 21-25 September 2023, Pao River, Kamalasai District
These races feature four categories – large boats with 55 oarsmen, medium-sized boats with 40 oarsmen, medium-sized local boats with 40 oarsmen, and general boats with 40 oarsmen.
For more information, contact the TAT Khon Kaen Office on Tel. +66 (0) 4322 7714-5 or via E-mail: tatkhkn@tat.or.th.
Sakhon Nakhon Tao Ngoi Worship Tradition 2023 23-29 September 2023, Pung River, Tao Ngoi District
The annual ritual and dance performances to worship Phaya Tao Ngoi (turtle lord) – the symbol of Tao Ngoi district in the Northeastern Thai province of Sakon Nakhon. The tradition is held alongside illuminated long-boat processions and long-boat races, as well as many other forms of entertainment and consumer fair.
Nong Khai Boat Race 2023 13-16 and 22-23 September 2023, Kong Nang Municipality, Tha Bo District
Along with the long-boat racing featuring 55 oarsmen boats on 13-16 September and the night long-boat racing featuring 12 oarsmen on 22-23 September, and there will be music concerts, folk performances, and other entertainment shows, as well as local product sales.
Racing schedules: 14 September: traditional 'Hor Khao Pradab Din' (Hor Khao Noi) long-boat racing featuring 55 oarsmen at Wat Pho Si Pier and Wat That Pier, Mueang Nong Khai district 23 September: traditional 'Klang Phansa' long-boat racing at Wat Pho Si Pier and Wat That Pier, Mueang Nong Khai district 29 September: traditional Tan Kuai Salak Pat long-boat racing at Wat Pho Si Pier and Wat That Pier, Mueang Nong Khai district 6-8 October: boat racing featuring 12 and 55 oarsmen at Sri Chiang Mai district 14 October: boat racing featuring 12 oarsmen at Sri Chiang Mai district 29-31 October: End of Buddhist Lent or Ok Phansa Tan Kuai Salak Pat at Wat Pho Si Pier and Wat That Pier, Mueang Nong Khai district
For more information, contact the TAT Udon Thani Office on Tel. +66 (0) 4232 5406-7 or via E-mail: tatudon@tat.or.th.
SOUTHERN REGION
Narathiwat Ko Lae Boat & Long-boat Racing 2023 22-24 September 2023, Chaloem Phrakiat Park and Tha Prayasai Dam
The much-anticipated Ko Lae Boat and long-boat races exclusive to Narathiwat is held alongside the annual Narathiwat's Specialty Fair. As well as different categories of boat races, there are exhibitions and showcases of Ko Lae boat replicas and other arts and crafts.
Chumphon Long-boat Racing Festival 2023 21-24 September 2023, Khlong Hua Wang-Phanangtak, Chumphon
The annual traditional long-boat racing is held alongside Chomphon's specialty food fair, featuring over 200 shops and eateries plus fly board show and light-and-sound presentation.
A royal pardon application for Thaksin Shinawatra, former Prime Minister of Thailand, has been received, as confirmed by the outgoing Deputy Prime Minister Wissanu Krea-ngam.
Acting as the justice minister, Wissanu announced a press event at the Government House, though he refrained from disclosing whether the appeal was penned by Thaksin or his relatives. He clarified that the request was made for an individual pardon, not as part of the standard group pardons and sentence reductions usually accorded on specific special occasions.
The deputy prime minister decided against revealing if the application encompasses all three cases that necessitated a total of eight years imprisonment for Thaksin.
"We have received (the request), the rest will be according to the procedure."
Under existing legislation, prisoners can submit a request for a royal pardon that is forwarded from the justice minister, via the prime minister, to the Privy Council, and ultimately to His Majesty the King. The entire process, given all the paperwork, is in place, typically stretches over one to two months.
The current interim government is nearing its end with only a few days remaining before the new administration headed by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin and the Pheu Thai Party takes the reins. However, Wissanu assured that the processing of the application wouldn't require a long time.
"It is purely based on royal grace. The procedure from the government is not lengthy, but it depends on the length of (the king's) consideration."
Wissanu also confirmed that Thaksin is currently lodged at the PoliceGeneral Hospital. He was admitted shortly after being incarcerated on August 22 to begin his sentence, reported Bangkok Post.
The deputy prime minister defended the decisions made by the correction officials regarding the medical care for Thaksin, who is 74 years old and a billionaire.
"Thaksin was ill. His blood pressure had almost reached 200. He had clot-busting medicine and allergies. He was also depressed and disheartened. So, his condition had worsened."
Thaksin returned to Thailand on August 22 after spending 15 years in self-imposed exile. Merely hours after his arrival, the Supreme Court passed a verdict on the three final legal cases related to corruption and abuse of power during his tenure before 2006.
On his initial night at the Bangkok Remand Prison, doctors found Thaksin too unwell to stay at the Department of Corrections hospital, which has limited facilities. The management of the Police General Hospital has since denied any special treatment given to Thaksin by the authorities.
Under hösten tas ytterligare steg i arbetet med att ändra namn på gateområden i Terminal 5. Pirerna ska få bokstäver och gaterna ska få namn som kombinerar bokstäver med befintliga gatenummer.
Syftet är att göra det enklare, tydligare och mer logiskt att hitta i terminalsystemet. Flygplatsens resenärer och anställda får målpunkter som gör det enklare att både orientera sig och hänvisa andra.
