2015年12月31日星期四
2015年12月23日星期三
巴东勿刹往返合艾‧泰南短程火车开动
巴东勿刹往返合艾‧泰南短程火车开动
随着明年全面开放东盟自由贸易区措施，马来亚铁道公司与泰国国家铁路局配合，抢先推出往来巴东勿刹及泰南合艾的柴油联车（DRC）短程火车服务。
沙比尼：加强两国推销旅业
马来亚铁道公司主席沙比尼认为，这是东盟十国推动各别旅游业，所跨出的第一步，为游客提供多一项往来两国的公共交通服务，有助于加强马泰两国推销当地旅游。
他笑言，从巴东勿刹开车到合艾去，路经14个交通灯，无形中将会拉长路程时间，再加上无法预料的交通繁忙情况，游客若选择乘搭柴油联车，反而比开车来得方便，也能在安排的时间抵步。
一趟行程只需55分钟
“一趟（火车）行程只需要55分钟，开车预计需要1小时至1小时30分，而且还费神，那么倒不如办理好入境手续后，坐上火车就能好好享受旅程了。”
他今天与泰国国家铁路局局长兀提察，一起在合艾推展通行大马巴东勿刹至泰国合艾的柴油联车（DRC）短程火车后，再乘坐柴油联车到新启用的泰南巴东勿刹火车站，载当地人到大马巴东勿刹火车站，让泰国媒体及居民感受马来亚铁道公司推出的电动火车服务。
沙比尼说，这项服务也有助于促进马泰两国人民的联系，尤其对那些有亲戚在邻国的人，柴油联车将会是他们的另一个选择。
兀提察：每趟可载168人
询及柴油联车的乘客人数目标，兀提察说，当局希望能每趟载送至少100人，而目前这趟列车有2节车厢，可载168人。
首搭这趟柴油联车的泰国乘客指收费比坐客车贵，他解释，车费从50泰铢至100泰铢不等，得视路程远近而定。
跨别逾40年……
暹卜间再设火车站
跨别四十余年之后，泰国巴东勿刹（俗称暹卜间）再设立火车站，挑起当地居民搭火车出门的喜悦。
来自泰国巴东勿刹的泰国华侨吴翊瑛（58岁）说，在她孩童时期，暹卜间有火车站，与大马巴东勿刹火车站毗邻，自从当地火车站拆除之后，就不再有机会在那里搭火车出门。
当她获悉泰国铁道局提供机会，给居民首搭柴油联车到大马，再尝试电动火车，就立刻广邀亲友一同来乘搭。
（星洲日报‧大北马）
随着明年全面开放东盟自由贸易区措施，马来亚铁道公司与泰国国家铁路局配合，抢先推出往来巴东勿刹及泰南合艾的柴油联车（DRC）短程火车服务。
沙比尼：加强两国推销旅业
马来亚铁道公司主席沙比尼认为，这是东盟十国推动各别旅游业，所跨出的第一步，为游客提供多一项往来两国的公共交通服务，有助于加强马泰两国推销当地旅游。
他笑言，从巴东勿刹开车到合艾去，路经14个交通灯，无形中将会拉长路程时间，再加上无法预料的交通繁忙情况，游客若选择乘搭柴油联车，反而比开车来得方便，也能在安排的时间抵步。
一趟行程只需55分钟
“一趟（火车）行程只需要55分钟，开车预计需要1小时至1小时30分，而且还费神，那么倒不如办理好入境手续后，坐上火车就能好好享受旅程了。”
他今天与泰国国家铁路局局长兀提察，一起在合艾推展通行大马巴东勿刹至泰国合艾的柴油联车（DRC）短程火车后，再乘坐柴油联车到新启用的泰南巴东勿刹火车站，载当地人到大马巴东勿刹火车站，让泰国媒体及居民感受马来亚铁道公司推出的电动火车服务。
沙比尼说，这项服务也有助于促进马泰两国人民的联系，尤其对那些有亲戚在邻国的人，柴油联车将会是他们的另一个选择。
兀提察：每趟可载168人
询及柴油联车的乘客人数目标，兀提察说，当局希望能每趟载送至少100人，而目前这趟列车有2节车厢，可载168人。
首搭这趟柴油联车的泰国乘客指收费比坐客车贵，他解释，车费从50泰铢至100泰铢不等，得视路程远近而定。
跨别逾40年……
暹卜间再设火车站
跨别四十余年之后，泰国巴东勿刹（俗称暹卜间）再设立火车站，挑起当地居民搭火车出门的喜悦。
来自泰国巴东勿刹的泰国华侨吴翊瑛（58岁）说，在她孩童时期，暹卜间有火车站，与大马巴东勿刹火车站毗邻，自从当地火车站拆除之后，就不再有机会在那里搭火车出门。
当她获悉泰国铁道局提供机会，给居民首搭柴油联车到大马，再尝试电动火车，就立刻广邀亲友一同来乘搭。
（星洲日报‧大北马）
2015年11月25日星期三
2015年11月3日星期二
Johor should create joint tourism package with Southern Thailand
Johor should create joint tourism package with Southern Thailand, says consul
Johor should create a joint tourism package with Southern Thailand according to Malaysia's consul-general here.
Consul-general II, Mohammad Shaharul Md Osman proposed for the package which could be initiated in the spirit of Asean, to start from Phuket and Hat Yai, Thailand to Johor.
"The tourism industry in Southern Thailand is very robust and has helped to stabilise the national economy; at certain times it is overwhelmed by visitors particularly to Songkhla and Hat Yai.
"In this regard, Johor should capitalise and initiate a cooperation with southern Thailand to persuade its tourists to proceed to Johor," he told a Johor media group that visited the Malaysian consulate here recently.
The group was in southern Thailand in conjunction with a Johor Media-Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad (KTMB) exploration mission.
Mohammad Shaharul opined that Southern Thailand's tourism players deserved credit for successfully promoting their tourism packages and local products.
"They smartly diversify and come up with other products besides the island destinations, food, shopping and entertainment to attract visitors, for example the Khlong Hae floating market in Hat Yai," he said.
~News courtesy of Bernama~
Johor should create a joint tourism package with Southern Thailand according to Malaysia's consul-general here.
Consul-general II, Mohammad Shaharul Md Osman proposed for the package which could be initiated in the spirit of Asean, to start from Phuket and Hat Yai, Thailand to Johor.
"The tourism industry in Southern Thailand is very robust and has helped to stabilise the national economy; at certain times it is overwhelmed by visitors particularly to Songkhla and Hat Yai.
"In this regard, Johor should capitalise and initiate a cooperation with southern Thailand to persuade its tourists to proceed to Johor," he told a Johor media group that visited the Malaysian consulate here recently.
The group was in southern Thailand in conjunction with a Johor Media-Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad (KTMB) exploration mission.
Mohammad Shaharul opined that Southern Thailand's tourism players deserved credit for successfully promoting their tourism packages and local products.
"They smartly diversify and come up with other products besides the island destinations, food, shopping and entertainment to attract visitors, for example the Khlong Hae floating market in Hat Yai," he said.
~News courtesy of Bernama~
2015年10月22日星期四
M'sia and Thai to expedite bridge works
M'sia and Thai to expedite bridge works
Malaysia and Thailand will work to expedite the completion of the Second Bridge Link at Rantau Panjang-Sungai Golok and the New Bridge Link at Pengkalan Kubor-Tak Bai, said Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Anifah Aman.
During the Fourth Ministerial Meeting of the Joint Development Strategy for Border Areas (JDS) today, both countries agreed to adhere to the stipulated timeline to ensure that groundbreaking ceremonies for the projects can be held next year.
"In order for the JDS to remain relevant, we must also address the areas where improvements can be made and those areas which have been lagging," Anifah said in his opening remarks during the 13th Joint Commission (JCM) for Bilateral Cooperation and Fourth JDS between Malaysia and Thailand at the Grand Hyatt Hotel here today.
"Unless we can complete these two key projects, it would be difficult for us to transition from the current JDS Action Plan to the Second JDS Action Plan," Anifah said.
Anifah and his Thai counterpart Don Pramudwinai also exchanged views on cooperation in rubber including the establishment of the rubber cities and urged the officials to deliberate on a plan to link the two rubber cities to ensure that they could complement each other.
"As we move into the Asean Economic Community, it is increasingly important to see our common border areas in the context of how best we can take advantage of the increasing connectivity and trade investment flows in our border zones.
"In this regard, I propose that the JDS develop a vision for the next ten years on how we would like to see the common border areas developed," Anifah said.
The designated location for the rubber city in Thailand is Chalung Industrial Estate in Songkhla province while the proposed site in Malaysia is Ladang Bukit Ketapang in Kedah.
Both countries also reiterated their commitment to further expand trade and investment with a view to achieve the target of US$30 billion (RM128.6 billion) of bilateral trade by 2018.
The JCM and JDS are held alternately by both countries. The last ministerial meetings were held in Phuket, Thailand, on Dec 14 and 15, 2013.
~News courtesy of The Sun~
Malaysia and Thailand will work to expedite the completion of the Second Bridge Link at Rantau Panjang-Sungai Golok and the New Bridge Link at Pengkalan Kubor-Tak Bai, said Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Anifah Aman.
During the Fourth Ministerial Meeting of the Joint Development Strategy for Border Areas (JDS) today, both countries agreed to adhere to the stipulated timeline to ensure that groundbreaking ceremonies for the projects can be held next year.
"In order for the JDS to remain relevant, we must also address the areas where improvements can be made and those areas which have been lagging," Anifah said in his opening remarks during the 13th Joint Commission (JCM) for Bilateral Cooperation and Fourth JDS between Malaysia and Thailand at the Grand Hyatt Hotel here today.
"Unless we can complete these two key projects, it would be difficult for us to transition from the current JDS Action Plan to the Second JDS Action Plan," Anifah said.
Anifah and his Thai counterpart Don Pramudwinai also exchanged views on cooperation in rubber including the establishment of the rubber cities and urged the officials to deliberate on a plan to link the two rubber cities to ensure that they could complement each other.
"As we move into the Asean Economic Community, it is increasingly important to see our common border areas in the context of how best we can take advantage of the increasing connectivity and trade investment flows in our border zones.
"In this regard, I propose that the JDS develop a vision for the next ten years on how we would like to see the common border areas developed," Anifah said.
The designated location for the rubber city in Thailand is Chalung Industrial Estate in Songkhla province while the proposed site in Malaysia is Ladang Bukit Ketapang in Kedah.
Both countries also reiterated their commitment to further expand trade and investment with a view to achieve the target of US$30 billion (RM128.6 billion) of bilateral trade by 2018.
The JCM and JDS are held alternately by both countries. The last ministerial meetings were held in Phuket, Thailand, on Dec 14 and 15, 2013.
~News courtesy of The Sun~
2015年9月7日星期一
自由出入境取消近40%商贩关门‧旺吉辇不旺了
自由出入境取消近40%商贩关门‧旺吉辇不旺了
自从内政部于4月1日发出指示，取消自由出入境（Free-flow）措施，马泰边境旺吉辇(Wang Kelian)商贩的生意严重萧条，昔日热闹的人头钻动情景不复返。
大马关税局于4月1日发出文告，取消旺吉辇关卡自由出入境措施。 （图：星洲日报）
旺吉辇商业市集商贩吁请中央政府能再作进一步商讨，即便不恢复原本全天候自由出入境措施，也能网开一面，允许周六日2天采取自由出入境措施，否则当地的商贸将无法恢复昔日的兴旺。
周末市集游客寥寥无几
《大北马》社区报记者前天（6日）到旺吉辇商业市集实地采访时，看到原本每逢周末、周日满是游客熙攘的旺吉辇，却是人烟稀少，只有三三两两的游客在大马旺吉辇市集闲逛。
开门做生意的商贩面对门可罗雀的小店，只能苦等顾客上门，其他有约40%商铺则大门深锁，当中有者已决定关门大吉，暂时结束营业，避免继续面对亏损。
商贩：营业额扣除成本……
“生意可能白做了”
有些商贩还苦哈哈地对记者说：“每个月的营业额，扣除成本后，要缴付110令吉租金，就可能等于生意白做了。”
就连往常靠近旺吉辇关卡的路旁，在周六日会停满车子，如今却空无一车，情况冷清。
李达妹：生意严重受挫
只好忍痛结束生意
马泰边境旺吉辇商业市集有个特殊情况，大马人喜欢过境到泰国那边的市集购物，泰国人则会选择到本地旺吉辇来扫货。
来自巴东勿刹的李达妹（62岁）在旺吉辇商业市集营业7年，从早期在通往马泰边境关卡的路边摆摊，直至搬迁到旺吉辇一天市集中心后面摆摊，每天招待来自泰国的顾客，应接不暇。
本地游客多只看不买
她语带哽咽地说，在自由出入境措施取消后，加上实行消费税，生意严重受挫，只好在5个月前忍痛结束在旺吉辇的生意，转战每个周六日的巴东勿刹商业市集。
“自由出入境措施取消初期，还有一些无法自由通关的本地游客进来闲逛，可是这些商品毕竟不是本地游客的目标，一般都只看不买，我附近有一家卖饼干的商贩，早前还因饼干过期，被迫全部丢掉，然后就关门大吉了。”
朱秀丽：盈利少得可怜
Metro Jaya贸易业者朱秀丽（45岁）说，现在平均一个月才做约500至1千令吉的生意额，扣除杂费、租金和成本，所赚的钱少得可怜。
询及假期是否会有所改善，她摇头说，她的顾客以泰国人占大多数，除非有带上过境证件，要不然根本不可能过来像她购物。
新闻背景
自由出入境4月1起取消
大马关税局于4月1日发出文告，取消旺吉辇关卡自由出入境措施，所有大马公民及外国游客都需以合法证件，即边境准证（Border Pass）及护照出入旺吉辇移民关卡。
须持准证或护照出入这项自由出入境措施是于1993年，马泰政府签署协议，允许马泰公民每逢周六、日，无须合法证件，可自由出入马泰边境旺吉辇关卡，惟只可在距离关卡1公里的限制范围以内活动。
不过，此措施曾于2008年2月取消，却引起当地居民及商家不满，最终在同年12月5日重新恢复自由出入境措施，并扩大至一周7天都可采取此措施通关。
（星洲日报‧大北马）
自从内政部于4月1日发出指示，取消自由出入境（Free-flow）措施，马泰边境旺吉辇(Wang Kelian)商贩的生意严重萧条，昔日热闹的人头钻动情景不复返。
大马关税局于4月1日发出文告，取消旺吉辇关卡自由出入境措施。 （图：星洲日报）
旺吉辇商业市集商贩吁请中央政府能再作进一步商讨，即便不恢复原本全天候自由出入境措施，也能网开一面，允许周六日2天采取自由出入境措施，否则当地的商贸将无法恢复昔日的兴旺。
周末市集游客寥寥无几
《大北马》社区报记者前天（6日）到旺吉辇商业市集实地采访时，看到原本每逢周末、周日满是游客熙攘的旺吉辇，却是人烟稀少，只有三三两两的游客在大马旺吉辇市集闲逛。
开门做生意的商贩面对门可罗雀的小店，只能苦等顾客上门，其他有约40%商铺则大门深锁，当中有者已决定关门大吉，暂时结束营业，避免继续面对亏损。
商贩：营业额扣除成本……
“生意可能白做了”
有些商贩还苦哈哈地对记者说：“每个月的营业额，扣除成本后，要缴付110令吉租金，就可能等于生意白做了。”
就连往常靠近旺吉辇关卡的路旁，在周六日会停满车子，如今却空无一车，情况冷清。
李达妹：生意严重受挫
只好忍痛结束生意
马泰边境旺吉辇商业市集有个特殊情况，大马人喜欢过境到泰国那边的市集购物，泰国人则会选择到本地旺吉辇来扫货。
来自巴东勿刹的李达妹（62岁）在旺吉辇商业市集营业7年，从早期在通往马泰边境关卡的路边摆摊，直至搬迁到旺吉辇一天市集中心后面摆摊，每天招待来自泰国的顾客，应接不暇。
本地游客多只看不买
她语带哽咽地说，在自由出入境措施取消后，加上实行消费税，生意严重受挫，只好在5个月前忍痛结束在旺吉辇的生意，转战每个周六日的巴东勿刹商业市集。
“自由出入境措施取消初期，还有一些无法自由通关的本地游客进来闲逛，可是这些商品毕竟不是本地游客的目标，一般都只看不买，我附近有一家卖饼干的商贩，早前还因饼干过期，被迫全部丢掉，然后就关门大吉了。”
朱秀丽：盈利少得可怜
Metro Jaya贸易业者朱秀丽（45岁）说，现在平均一个月才做约500至1千令吉的生意额，扣除杂费、租金和成本，所赚的钱少得可怜。
询及假期是否会有所改善，她摇头说，她的顾客以泰国人占大多数，除非有带上过境证件，要不然根本不可能过来像她购物。
新闻背景
自由出入境4月1起取消
大马关税局于4月1日发出文告，取消旺吉辇关卡自由出入境措施，所有大马公民及外国游客都需以合法证件，即边境准证（Border Pass）及护照出入旺吉辇移民关卡。
须持准证或护照出入这项自由出入境措施是于1993年，马泰政府签署协议，允许马泰公民每逢周六、日，无须合法证件，可自由出入马泰边境旺吉辇关卡，惟只可在距离关卡1公里的限制范围以内活动。
不过，此措施曾于2008年2月取消，却引起当地居民及商家不满，最终在同年12月5日重新恢复自由出入境措施，并扩大至一周7天都可采取此措施通关。
（星洲日报‧大北马）
2015年9月6日星期日
柬埔寨卜省接泰国沙缴府‧铁路带动跨境贸易
卜省接泰国沙缴府‧铁路带动跨境贸易
从卜迭棉芷省(Banteay Meanchey)是士分市(Sisophon)连接波比市(Poi Pet)的铁路工程已竣工，而波比市至泰国沙缴府(Sa Kaew)也將兴建，將进一步带动柬泰跨境贸易。
公共工程和运输部铁路局局长李波文指出，由卜省是士分市至波比市全长42公里的铁路已竣工，而该局也將於今年杪举行招標会，以兴建剩余从波比市至泰国沙缴府阿蓝巴贴Aranyaprathet路段（6公里）。
“我们將动用国家资金，以完成卜迭棉芷省铁路路段。”李波文说，柬泰铁路將为货品运输提供便利，使货品可以直接从泰国进入柬埔寨，或是从柬运入泰国。
他说，因卡车超载问题，导致公路损坏不堪，令政府必须花费大量资金以修建。泰国首相巴育上週向泰国媒体透露，一旦柬泰铁路重新接通，將对两地边境经济特区的建立带来好处，同时也將惠及泰国的土瓦深水码头（Dawei）。
从是士分连接泰国阿蓝巴贴的铁路是於1970年因柬埔寨內战而中断。据商业部报告指出，去年，柬泰双方贸易金额约51亿美元，相比2013年46亿美元，增加11%。其中，今年首三个月，柬埔寨对泰国出口“翻倍”，达到2亿6100万美元，相比2013年同期，增加1亿3400万美元。
（柬埔寨星洲日报）
从卜迭棉芷省(Banteay Meanchey)是士分市(Sisophon)连接波比市(Poi Pet)的铁路工程已竣工，而波比市至泰国沙缴府(Sa Kaew)也將兴建，將进一步带动柬泰跨境贸易。
公共工程和运输部铁路局局长李波文指出，由卜省是士分市至波比市全长42公里的铁路已竣工，而该局也將於今年杪举行招標会，以兴建剩余从波比市至泰国沙缴府阿蓝巴贴Aranyaprathet路段（6公里）。
“我们將动用国家资金，以完成卜迭棉芷省铁路路段。”李波文说，柬泰铁路將为货品运输提供便利，使货品可以直接从泰国进入柬埔寨，或是从柬运入泰国。
他说，因卡车超载问题，导致公路损坏不堪，令政府必须花费大量资金以修建。泰国首相巴育上週向泰国媒体透露，一旦柬泰铁路重新接通，將对两地边境经济特区的建立带来好处，同时也將惠及泰国的土瓦深水码头（Dawei）。
从是士分连接泰国阿蓝巴贴的铁路是於1970年因柬埔寨內战而中断。据商业部报告指出，去年，柬泰双方贸易金额约51亿美元，相比2013年46亿美元，增加11%。其中，今年首三个月，柬埔寨对泰国出口“翻倍”，达到2亿6100万美元，相比2013年同期，增加1亿3400万美元。
（柬埔寨星洲日报）
2015年8月31日星期一
印尼烟霾入侵 普吉岛空气变差
印尼烟霾入侵 普吉岛空气变差
印尼烟霾入侵泰国普吉岛，导致当地空气质量、能见度均有不同程度的下降，部分时段空气中灰尘含量超标，但该情况尚未影响到普吉机场航班的正常起降。普吉环保机构呼吁当地民众，早晨尽量不要外出锻炼，或进行长时间的户外活动。
普吉府南部地区第15环保办事处昨天（27日）证实，受印尼山火影响，普吉岛出现轻微烟霾，上午7时测量到空气中灰尘含量达到145微克，超出120微克的标准数据。不久之后，空气质量出现好转。即便如此，还是提醒当地民众早晨不要到户外锻炼身体，或长时间呆在户外，以免引起呼吸系统不适。
普吉府卡玛拉区、巴东区、卡图县、卡伦区、察隆区和市区，均出现不同程度的烟霾，部分民众外出一段时间后，眼睛和鼻子出现不适症状，尤其是卡玛拉、巴东、卡塔和卡伦区情况更加严重，烟雾浓度更大。
普吉机场工作人员指出，目前的烟霾情况对机场航班起降没有造成影响，所有的进出港航班都正常起降。如果空气质量持续恶化，机场当局将根据实际情况及时通报航班变化。
~以上新闻转自世界日报~
印尼烟霾入侵泰国普吉岛，导致当地空气质量、能见度均有不同程度的下降，部分时段空气中灰尘含量超标，但该情况尚未影响到普吉机场航班的正常起降。普吉环保机构呼吁当地民众，早晨尽量不要外出锻炼，或进行长时间的户外活动。
普吉府南部地区第15环保办事处昨天（27日）证实，受印尼山火影响，普吉岛出现轻微烟霾，上午7时测量到空气中灰尘含量达到145微克，超出120微克的标准数据。不久之后，空气质量出现好转。即便如此，还是提醒当地民众早晨不要到户外锻炼身体，或长时间呆在户外，以免引起呼吸系统不适。
普吉府卡玛拉区、巴东区、卡图县、卡伦区、察隆区和市区，均出现不同程度的烟霾，部分民众外出一段时间后，眼睛和鼻子出现不适症状，尤其是卡玛拉、巴东、卡塔和卡伦区情况更加严重，烟雾浓度更大。
普吉机场工作人员指出，目前的烟霾情况对机场航班起降没有造成影响，所有的进出港航班都正常起降。如果空气质量持续恶化，机场当局将根据实际情况及时通报航班变化。
~以上新闻转自世界日报~
美食街走进12府 边玩边吃大过瘾
美食街走进12府 边玩边吃大过瘾
卫生部、观光与体育部于昨天（27日）联合召开新闻发布会，宣布携手通过举办美食街和果蔬市场活动促进国家旅游业发展，向游客展示泰国特色美食，计画在全国12个府治、17条主道路、13个果蔬市场展开。卫生部长比亚萨功、观光与体育部长果甘女士共同出席新闻发布会。
比亚萨功表示，政府给今年的旅游主题定为「泰式旅游年」，卫生部、观光与体育部合作筹办美食街和果蔬市场促旅游活动，通过泰式美食文化吸引游客，打造美食街，提高路边摊食品卫生等级，让游客吃到既卫生又美味的泰式料理。
这项活动将在全国12个府治推出，包括喃邦Lampang、难府Nan、碧差汶Petchabun、黎府Loei、武里喃Buriram、尖竹汶Chantaburi、哒叻Trat、叻丕Ratchaburi、夜功Samut Songkhram、春蓬Chumporn、呵叻Korat以及董里府Trang。
比亚萨功说，目前已经达到食品卫生标准、获得卫生许可证的餐饮店和街边摊，不包括曼谷市的有超过13万家，占总数的87%。而卫生达标的果蔬市场有1000多个，占总数的86%。而加入美食街计画的餐饮店和街边摊，至少连续3年达到食品卫生标准5颗星或3颗星。
果甘女士指出，独具特色的泰国美食有着很大的魅力，外国人对泰国美食也十分喜爱，这次的计画能让外国游客走进泰国本土市场，品尝街边美食，真正感受到泰国的风土人情。
~以上新闻转自世界日报~
卫生部、观光与体育部于昨天（27日）联合召开新闻发布会，宣布携手通过举办美食街和果蔬市场活动促进国家旅游业发展，向游客展示泰国特色美食，计画在全国12个府治、17条主道路、13个果蔬市场展开。卫生部长比亚萨功、观光与体育部长果甘女士共同出席新闻发布会。
比亚萨功表示，政府给今年的旅游主题定为「泰式旅游年」，卫生部、观光与体育部合作筹办美食街和果蔬市场促旅游活动，通过泰式美食文化吸引游客，打造美食街，提高路边摊食品卫生等级，让游客吃到既卫生又美味的泰式料理。
这项活动将在全国12个府治推出，包括喃邦Lampang、难府Nan、碧差汶Petchabun、黎府Loei、武里喃Buriram、尖竹汶Chantaburi、哒叻Trat、叻丕Ratchaburi、夜功Samut Songkhram、春蓬Chumporn、呵叻Korat以及董里府Trang。
比亚萨功说，目前已经达到食品卫生标准、获得卫生许可证的餐饮店和街边摊，不包括曼谷市的有超过13万家，占总数的87%。而卫生达标的果蔬市场有1000多个，占总数的86%。而加入美食街计画的餐饮店和街边摊，至少连续3年达到食品卫生标准5颗星或3颗星。
果甘女士指出，独具特色的泰国美食有着很大的魅力，外国人对泰国美食也十分喜爱，这次的计画能让外国游客走进泰国本土市场，品尝街边美食，真正感受到泰国的风土人情。
~以上新闻转自世界日报~
游客涌入巴蜀 一睹七王圣像
游客涌入巴蜀 一睹七王圣像
巴蜀府(Prachuab Khiri Khan)华欣县(Hua Hin)叻察帕国家公园昨天（30日）吸引大量游客利用周末假期前往游玩，多条道路都出现不同程度的塞车，公园内所有纪念品销售一空。
总理巴育上将于本月19日为巴蜀府华欣县叻察帕公园内的7位先皇巨大圣像雕塑揭幕，成为近期最受泰国民众欢迎的旅游新景点。周六、周日大量泰国民众自驾车前往观光，附近多条道路车满为患。叻察帕国家公园将于9月12日举办的演唱会，提前用于活动宣传的专属衣服、包包和帽子等纪念品也销售一空。
巴蜀府尹威拉表示，有意参加「叻察帕报答国母之恩」骑行活动的民众，可以到华欣陆军俱乐部或者碧武里府陆军第15军营领取报名表，或者登录叻察帕国家公园网站报名，截止日期为9月9日。所有活动的收入都将用于叻察帕国家公园的发展和完善。
~以上新闻转自世界日报~
巴蜀府(Prachuab Khiri Khan)华欣县(Hua Hin)叻察帕国家公园昨天（30日）吸引大量游客利用周末假期前往游玩，多条道路都出现不同程度的塞车，公园内所有纪念品销售一空。
总理巴育上将于本月19日为巴蜀府华欣县叻察帕公园内的7位先皇巨大圣像雕塑揭幕，成为近期最受泰国民众欢迎的旅游新景点。周六、周日大量泰国民众自驾车前往观光，附近多条道路车满为患。叻察帕国家公园将于9月12日举办的演唱会，提前用于活动宣传的专属衣服、包包和帽子等纪念品也销售一空。
巴蜀府尹威拉表示，有意参加「叻察帕报答国母之恩」骑行活动的民众，可以到华欣陆军俱乐部或者碧武里府陆军第15军营领取报名表，或者登录叻察帕国家公园网站报名，截止日期为9月9日。所有活动的收入都将用于叻察帕国家公园的发展和完善。
~以上新闻转自世界日报~
Connecting Kazakhstan
Connecting Kazakhstan
Bangkok Airways has entered into a new codeshare agreement with the Republic of Kazakhstan-based Air Astana, increasing its code share partners.
The partnership is set to link Air Astana's passengers with Thailand's most renowned beach destinations and will seamlessly enable Air Astana passengers to connect with Samui, Phuket and Krabi.
Air Astana customers travelling on Bangkok Airways will enjoy the boutique airline's check-through service, lounge access and in-flight meal.
All Air Astana's passengers on Bangkok Airways flights will receive boarding passes on check-in at their first international departure point for connection with their destination. Visit www.BangkokAir.com.
~News courtesy of The Nation~
Bangkok Airways has entered into a new codeshare agreement with the Republic of Kazakhstan-based Air Astana, increasing its code share partners.
The partnership is set to link Air Astana's passengers with Thailand's most renowned beach destinations and will seamlessly enable Air Astana passengers to connect with Samui, Phuket and Krabi.
Air Astana customers travelling on Bangkok Airways will enjoy the boutique airline's check-through service, lounge access and in-flight meal.
All Air Astana's passengers on Bangkok Airways flights will receive boarding passes on check-in at their first international departure point for connection with their destination. Visit www.BangkokAir.com.
~News courtesy of The Nation~
2015年8月30日星期日
3国加强旅游合作‧设路线畅游柬越泰
3国加强旅游合作‧设路线畅游柬越泰
柬埔寨和泰国及越南加强旅游合作，一起推出“柬泰越三国游”旅游配套。
柬泰越三国旅游部日前在国公举行旅游合作会议，就开拓跨越三国旅游路线达成了共识，並设立了三条联合旅游路线。
在三条联合旅游路线中，有一条“三国旅”和二条“两国游”路线。
第一条旅游路线是从泰国的曼谷、罗勇府、达叻府、柬埔寨的国公、卜哥山、西港、嗊吥、白马、越南的富国岛和胡志明市。
第二条路线是从曼谷、罗勇府、达叻府、国公、西港和暹粒省；第三条路线是从胡志明、富国岛、白马、嗊吥、卜哥山、茶胶省、金边和暹粒省。
我国旅游部长唐坤表示，今后柬泰越三国旅行社会推出这三条旅游配套，让游客一次消费就可以尽情的享受三国旅游服务。
~以上新闻转自柬埔寨星洲日报~
柬埔寨和泰国及越南加强旅游合作，一起推出“柬泰越三国游”旅游配套。
柬泰越三国旅游部日前在国公举行旅游合作会议，就开拓跨越三国旅游路线达成了共识，並设立了三条联合旅游路线。
在三条联合旅游路线中，有一条“三国旅”和二条“两国游”路线。
第一条旅游路线是从泰国的曼谷、罗勇府、达叻府、柬埔寨的国公、卜哥山、西港、嗊吥、白马、越南的富国岛和胡志明市。
第二条路线是从曼谷、罗勇府、达叻府、国公、西港和暹粒省；第三条路线是从胡志明、富国岛、白马、嗊吥、卜哥山、茶胶省、金边和暹粒省。
我国旅游部长唐坤表示，今后柬泰越三国旅行社会推出这三条旅游配套，让游客一次消费就可以尽情的享受三国旅游服务。
~以上新闻转自柬埔寨星洲日报~
2015年8月19日星期三
Bangkok hotels tighten security
Bangkok hotels tighten security
HOTELS in Bangkok have stepped up security measures in the wake of Monday's bombing at the Erawan Shrine in the centre of the city, which killed 20 people and injured 130 others. The Grand Hyatt Erawan Hotel, which is located next to the shrine, said in a statement that the safety and security of guests was its top priority.
The hotel has elevated security following the incident. All perimeters have been secured and all bags and luggage are being checked at each entrance. The property experienced some minor damage as a result of the incident and will continue to monitor the situation closely, said the hotel management.
Meanwhile, the Grand Hyatt Erawan Hotel is in full operation at this time, it added.
Nattakit Tangpoonsinthana, executive vice president for marketing at Central Pattana, said its flagship complex consisting of CentralWorld, Zen, and Centara Grand and Bangkok Convention Centre, located at the Ratchaprasong intersection, had increased the number of security guards by 20 per cent following the bomb blast in the area.
The company is also leveraging its space and the Skywalk by increasing the number of security reminders and adding precautionary measures inside and outside the complex. Security guards have been assigned to check visitors' bags, while all CCTV cameras have also been checked to ensure they operate properly, said the executive.
Following the lethal bomb blast at the Erawan Shine on Monday, there was a second blast on Tuesday under the Taksin BTS Skytrain station beside the Chao Phraya River.
There were no deaths or injuries as a result of the latter incident, as the device was misdirected and detonated harmlessly underwater.
"This [second] blast has rocked many luxury hotels located along the banks of the river. Hotels have begun to be fearful, but we have now introduced more security measures," said a member of staff at one of the hotels in the area.
The international and big local chain hotels located in the area are the Anantara Bangkok Riverside & Spa, the Chatrium Hotel Riverside, the Mandarin Oriental Bangkok, the Millennium Hilton, The Peninsula, the Ramada Plaza Bangkok Menam Riverside, the Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel & Towers, and the Shangri-La Hotel.
"For the Mandarin Oriental Bangkok, we can confirm that the safety and security of our guests and colleagues is of paramount importance at all times. Our comprehensive fire, life, health and safety protocols are firmly in place and we continue to cooperate with the local authorities regarding proactive security measures in and around our property," said a Mandarin Oriental Bangkok spokesperson. The InterContinental Bangkok, a luxury hotel in the Ratchaprasong area, said it was continuing to operate as normal.
However, the hotel has implemented its "security wise" protocol in the wake of Monday's blast, which entails security teams tightening up and adding security both within the building and outside.
"We are providing all guests with the latest information updates and also advising them to avoid going to blocked-off places," a hotel employee said, adding that the property had set aside rooms for staff in case of a crisis.
Meanwhile, a suspicious object was found yesterday at Nana BTS station, bringing fear to locals and tourists in the city-centre Sukhumvit area.
Minor Hotel Group said it was taking additional security action at its Anantara, Oaks and Avani hotels in Bangkok after Monday's explosion.
Primary actions include bringing together a crisis management team from the property and corporate offices and activating the company's crisis communication plan, which is in place.
Measures taken include personal checks with every single guest; providing regular updates on the situation for guests; providing a 24-hour central point of contact; taking additional safety and security measures and monitoring the situation closely; providing alternative options for guests who may wish to transfer to another hotel in the group; and communicating with agents in Thailand and outside.
Meanwhile, in the wake of Monday's atrocity, the authorities are increasing safeguards and security measures at major tourist attractions, public areas, airports, as well as zoos.
The Stock Exchange of Thailand Index rebounded yesterday following an almost 30-basis-points drop on Tuesday after Monday's bomb blast and the attempted secondary attack, while the baht has remained stable at around 35.50 per US dollar.
The country's main stock index closed at 1408.74 points on Monday before declining to 1372.61 on Tuesday, but was able to rebound by 6.51 basis points to close at 1379.12 yesterday.
The baht was trading at 35.536 per US dollar on Monday and 35.539 on Tuesday, before continuing its depreciating trend against the greenback to 35.580 as of 5pm yesterday, due to the strengthening of the dollar.
~News courtesy of The Nation~
HOTELS in Bangkok have stepped up security measures in the wake of Monday's bombing at the Erawan Shrine in the centre of the city, which killed 20 people and injured 130 others. The Grand Hyatt Erawan Hotel, which is located next to the shrine, said in a statement that the safety and security of guests was its top priority.
The hotel has elevated security following the incident. All perimeters have been secured and all bags and luggage are being checked at each entrance. The property experienced some minor damage as a result of the incident and will continue to monitor the situation closely, said the hotel management.
Meanwhile, the Grand Hyatt Erawan Hotel is in full operation at this time, it added.
Nattakit Tangpoonsinthana, executive vice president for marketing at Central Pattana, said its flagship complex consisting of CentralWorld, Zen, and Centara Grand and Bangkok Convention Centre, located at the Ratchaprasong intersection, had increased the number of security guards by 20 per cent following the bomb blast in the area.
The company is also leveraging its space and the Skywalk by increasing the number of security reminders and adding precautionary measures inside and outside the complex. Security guards have been assigned to check visitors' bags, while all CCTV cameras have also been checked to ensure they operate properly, said the executive.
Following the lethal bomb blast at the Erawan Shine on Monday, there was a second blast on Tuesday under the Taksin BTS Skytrain station beside the Chao Phraya River.
There were no deaths or injuries as a result of the latter incident, as the device was misdirected and detonated harmlessly underwater.
"This [second] blast has rocked many luxury hotels located along the banks of the river. Hotels have begun to be fearful, but we have now introduced more security measures," said a member of staff at one of the hotels in the area.
The international and big local chain hotels located in the area are the Anantara Bangkok Riverside & Spa, the Chatrium Hotel Riverside, the Mandarin Oriental Bangkok, the Millennium Hilton, The Peninsula, the Ramada Plaza Bangkok Menam Riverside, the Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel & Towers, and the Shangri-La Hotel.
"For the Mandarin Oriental Bangkok, we can confirm that the safety and security of our guests and colleagues is of paramount importance at all times. Our comprehensive fire, life, health and safety protocols are firmly in place and we continue to cooperate with the local authorities regarding proactive security measures in and around our property," said a Mandarin Oriental Bangkok spokesperson. The InterContinental Bangkok, a luxury hotel in the Ratchaprasong area, said it was continuing to operate as normal.
However, the hotel has implemented its "security wise" protocol in the wake of Monday's blast, which entails security teams tightening up and adding security both within the building and outside.
"We are providing all guests with the latest information updates and also advising them to avoid going to blocked-off places," a hotel employee said, adding that the property had set aside rooms for staff in case of a crisis.
Meanwhile, a suspicious object was found yesterday at Nana BTS station, bringing fear to locals and tourists in the city-centre Sukhumvit area.
Minor Hotel Group said it was taking additional security action at its Anantara, Oaks and Avani hotels in Bangkok after Monday's explosion.
Primary actions include bringing together a crisis management team from the property and corporate offices and activating the company's crisis communication plan, which is in place.
Measures taken include personal checks with every single guest; providing regular updates on the situation for guests; providing a 24-hour central point of contact; taking additional safety and security measures and monitoring the situation closely; providing alternative options for guests who may wish to transfer to another hotel in the group; and communicating with agents in Thailand and outside.
Meanwhile, in the wake of Monday's atrocity, the authorities are increasing safeguards and security measures at major tourist attractions, public areas, airports, as well as zoos.
The Stock Exchange of Thailand Index rebounded yesterday following an almost 30-basis-points drop on Tuesday after Monday's bomb blast and the attempted secondary attack, while the baht has remained stable at around 35.50 per US dollar.
The country's main stock index closed at 1408.74 points on Monday before declining to 1372.61 on Tuesday, but was able to rebound by 6.51 basis points to close at 1379.12 yesterday.
The baht was trading at 35.536 per US dollar on Monday and 35.539 on Tuesday, before continuing its depreciating trend against the greenback to 35.580 as of 5pm yesterday, due to the strengthening of the dollar.
~News courtesy of The Nation~
2015年8月17日星期一
At least 20 killed, over 100 injured by biggest attack
At least 20 killed, over 100 injured by biggest attack
A LARGE bomb rocked central Bangkok's Ratchaprasong area last night, killing at least 16 people and injuring dozens more last night.
The blast - perhaps the biggest attack in the country - was the first major violence following the May 2014 coup. It appeared to target the city's Erawan Shrine, which is popular with Chinese tourists.
Police spokesman Pol Lt Gen Prawut Thavornsiri confirmed Tuesday morning that the death toll has risen to 20 and 125 people were injured.
National police chief Pol General Somyot Poompanmuang condemned the fatal attack, saying the suspects were very cruel and had every intention to kill innocent people.
"I want to condemn the attack and the attackers who were brutal as they attacked the Erawan Shrine at about 7pm, when it is usually packed with foreign tourists and worshippers," Somyot said.
Roads leading to Ratchaprasong Intersection would be closed until noon August 18 so police can collect evidence from the scene, he said.
At the time of the blast, Ratchaprasong and the Erawan Shrine were packed with motorists, tourists and worshippers.
The National Council for Peace and Order, which is led by Prime Minister General Prayut Chan-o-cha, called an urgent meeting following the blast.
Somyot said a Chinese and a Filipino national were among those killed. Earlier, unconfirmed reports claimed four foreigners were among the casualties.
Somyot said initial inquiries showed the suspects had planted an improvised explosive device under a chair close to the fence of the Erawan Shrine. It was a 3kg TNT explosive with a capacity to damage a 100-metre area.
Somyot said he had informed Prayut as well as Deputy Premier and Defence Minister Prawit Wongsuwan of the incident, adding he was not ruling out any possible cause for the attack. The authorities have ordered police to ensure public security.
Initial reports said at least 15 were killed and 100 injured in the explosion that occurred just before 7pm. Somyot said another suspected bomb was found by a bomb squad in the same area.
The Police Hospital asked for the public to donate blood for dozens of injured victims. Most of the injured were Chinese tourists who were believed to be paying respect to the shrine when the blasts took place.
"It was a TNT bomb... the people who did it targeted foreigners and to damage tourism and the economy," Prawit said.
Witnesses believed there were two blasts, with the first bomb detonated on a motorcycle parked on the street, while a second was near the Erawan Shrine. The usually busy Ratchaprasong area was immediately sealed off.
Former deputy government spokesman MajGeneral Sansern Kaewkamnerd said Prawit was assigned by the PM to take charge of the situation. He said it was too early to pinpoint the cause.
Security sources said the incident was believed to be politically motivated, and may involve the move to strip former PM Thaksin Shinawatra of his police rank, the draft charter, the looming military reshuffle, and the spillover from unrest in the deep South.
"I was having dinner at the Hyatt Erawan when a large explosion shook the building," said Eric Seldin, an office worker told DPA. "When we were allowed outside 15 minutes later we saw several bodies covered under white sheets and damage to a nearby shrine."
TV footage showed emergency workers assisting survivors and body parts scattered on the road. A bomb crater was visible in the courtyard of the Hindu shrine.
~News courtesy of The Nation~
A LARGE bomb rocked central Bangkok's Ratchaprasong area last night, killing at least 16 people and injuring dozens more last night.
The blast - perhaps the biggest attack in the country - was the first major violence following the May 2014 coup. It appeared to target the city's Erawan Shrine, which is popular with Chinese tourists.
Police spokesman Pol Lt Gen Prawut Thavornsiri confirmed Tuesday morning that the death toll has risen to 20 and 125 people were injured.
National police chief Pol General Somyot Poompanmuang condemned the fatal attack, saying the suspects were very cruel and had every intention to kill innocent people.
"I want to condemn the attack and the attackers who were brutal as they attacked the Erawan Shrine at about 7pm, when it is usually packed with foreign tourists and worshippers," Somyot said.
Roads leading to Ratchaprasong Intersection would be closed until noon August 18 so police can collect evidence from the scene, he said.
At the time of the blast, Ratchaprasong and the Erawan Shrine were packed with motorists, tourists and worshippers.
The National Council for Peace and Order, which is led by Prime Minister General Prayut Chan-o-cha, called an urgent meeting following the blast.
Somyot said a Chinese and a Filipino national were among those killed. Earlier, unconfirmed reports claimed four foreigners were among the casualties.
Somyot said initial inquiries showed the suspects had planted an improvised explosive device under a chair close to the fence of the Erawan Shrine. It was a 3kg TNT explosive with a capacity to damage a 100-metre area.
Somyot said he had informed Prayut as well as Deputy Premier and Defence Minister Prawit Wongsuwan of the incident, adding he was not ruling out any possible cause for the attack. The authorities have ordered police to ensure public security.
Initial reports said at least 15 were killed and 100 injured in the explosion that occurred just before 7pm. Somyot said another suspected bomb was found by a bomb squad in the same area.
The Police Hospital asked for the public to donate blood for dozens of injured victims. Most of the injured were Chinese tourists who were believed to be paying respect to the shrine when the blasts took place.
"It was a TNT bomb... the people who did it targeted foreigners and to damage tourism and the economy," Prawit said.
Witnesses believed there were two blasts, with the first bomb detonated on a motorcycle parked on the street, while a second was near the Erawan Shrine. The usually busy Ratchaprasong area was immediately sealed off.
Former deputy government spokesman MajGeneral Sansern Kaewkamnerd said Prawit was assigned by the PM to take charge of the situation. He said it was too early to pinpoint the cause.
Security sources said the incident was believed to be politically motivated, and may involve the move to strip former PM Thaksin Shinawatra of his police rank, the draft charter, the looming military reshuffle, and the spillover from unrest in the deep South.
"I was having dinner at the Hyatt Erawan when a large explosion shook the building," said Eric Seldin, an office worker told DPA. "When we were allowed outside 15 minutes later we saw several bodies covered under white sheets and damage to a nearby shrine."
TV footage showed emergency workers assisting survivors and body parts scattered on the road. A bomb crater was visible in the courtyard of the Hindu shrine.
~News courtesy of The Nation~
曼谷叻巴颂爆炸 27死 定性恐攻
曼谷叻巴颂爆炸 27死 定性恐攻
泰国曼谷市最繁华的商业中心区「叻巴颂十字路口」，著名的四面佛神坛处，昨晚（17日）7时突发发生强烈爆炸，由于正是交通拥堵时期，已造成27人死亡，80多人受伤，警方对事发地点进行封锁，由于发现另一枚炸弹，官方基本定性此事件为恐怖袭击。
警方指出，叻巴颂十字路口发生强烈爆炸当时正是红灯，而且是交通拥堵时期，突如其来的爆炸导致许多人来不及躲避，尤其是驾驶机车等候在汽车前方的司机们。
爆炸发生后，一辆摩托车在路口中央开始燃烧，周围民众帮助伤者远离爆炸地点。警方和善堂救灾队员立即赶往事发现场救援，警方拆弹部队（EOD）也紧急进行爆炸现场，封锁四面佛附近多个路口，同时消防队也进入现场展开灭火行动。
截至昨晚9点，内政部防灾减灾厅的公共灾害救助指挥中心指出，此事件已经造成27人死亡、80人受伤，30多辆车受到不同程度的损伤。死者中包括4名外籍人士，根据路透社消息，死者中可能有中国游客，还可能有台湾游客受伤。
经过初步调查，可能是有人把炸弹藏在四面佛一带并进行引爆，所以爆炸威力巨大，冲击波将附近汽车的挡风玻璃炸碎。
根据17日晚间9时消息，初步判断是人为放置炸弹，目前找到一枚仍未爆炸的炸弹，该炸弹是在四面佛附近的石凳下方，是一枚定时炸弹，内含约5公斤TNT炸药。也就是说，之前爆炸的极有可能也是相似炸弹，政府已经宣布封锁附近10处地点，禁止民众进入。
此外，事发后有消息说，国家维稳委员会下令政府部门与学校今天全面停工停课，但官方电视台已出面否认此消息。
~以上新闻转自世界日报~
泰国曼谷市最繁华的商业中心区「叻巴颂十字路口」，著名的四面佛神坛处，昨晚（17日）7时突发发生强烈爆炸，由于正是交通拥堵时期，已造成27人死亡，80多人受伤，警方对事发地点进行封锁，由于发现另一枚炸弹，官方基本定性此事件为恐怖袭击。
警方指出，叻巴颂十字路口发生强烈爆炸当时正是红灯，而且是交通拥堵时期，突如其来的爆炸导致许多人来不及躲避，尤其是驾驶机车等候在汽车前方的司机们。
爆炸发生后，一辆摩托车在路口中央开始燃烧，周围民众帮助伤者远离爆炸地点。警方和善堂救灾队员立即赶往事发现场救援，警方拆弹部队（EOD）也紧急进行爆炸现场，封锁四面佛附近多个路口，同时消防队也进入现场展开灭火行动。
截至昨晚9点，内政部防灾减灾厅的公共灾害救助指挥中心指出，此事件已经造成27人死亡、80人受伤，30多辆车受到不同程度的损伤。死者中包括4名外籍人士，根据路透社消息，死者中可能有中国游客，还可能有台湾游客受伤。
经过初步调查，可能是有人把炸弹藏在四面佛一带并进行引爆，所以爆炸威力巨大，冲击波将附近汽车的挡风玻璃炸碎。
根据17日晚间9时消息，初步判断是人为放置炸弹，目前找到一枚仍未爆炸的炸弹，该炸弹是在四面佛附近的石凳下方，是一枚定时炸弹，内含约5公斤TNT炸药。也就是说，之前爆炸的极有可能也是相似炸弹，政府已经宣布封锁附近10处地点，禁止民众进入。
此外，事发后有消息说，国家维稳委员会下令政府部门与学校今天全面停工停课，但官方电视台已出面否认此消息。
~以上新闻转自世界日报~
2015年7月29日星期三
打车神器Grab Taxi拟进驻普吉
打车神器Grab Taxi拟进驻普吉
东南亚最大的APP「打车神器」服务商Grab Taxi，计画开拓普吉计程车市场，这是Grab Taxi继曼谷、芭堤雅以及清莱之后瞄准的第4个城市，目的是让当地民众和游客可以更加容易召唤计程车，并享受更安全、更公平、更合法的打车服务。估计需要经过2-3个月的考察评估，之后即可决定是否在普吉府正式推出该服务。
普吉府府尹、海军第3军区副司令、普吉府运输管理负责人、普吉地方警察总署副署长、Grab Taxi公司副总经理，于昨天（24日）在普吉美林酒店召开新闻发布会，就Grab Taxi准备在普吉府推出APP叫车服务市场调查，征询当地计程车、私家计程车合作意向等进行说明。
府尹匿实表示，普吉府解决经济问题官民联合委员会经过讨论，决定推动普吉府计程车服务行业发展，为广大游客和当地民众提供更加优质的服务，让普吉的计程车服务达到规定的标准，同时吸引更多自由行客人到普吉旅游。目前该计画正在进行可行性调查评估过程中，同时与现有的计程车经营者进行沟通说明。
Grab Taxi公司代表指出，该公司计画在普吉推出APP叫车项目得到普吉府官方的大力支持，而该公司在曼谷、芭堤雅和清莱取得的成功经验，让他们相信同样可以在普吉获得推广和发展，为游客和当地民众提供更加便利、安全、公平和优质的服务。目前已经有50多辆计程车有意加入该公司的叫车服务系统，而该公司的目标是争取让加入APP叫车服务的车辆超过100辆。
普吉府计程车服务业落后、车辆不足、司机服务态度差、不打表随意叫价等问题突出，部分地区的计程车服务被少数当地人垄断，禁止其他车辆到所在区域载客，给游客出行带来诸多不便。
~以上新闻转自世界日报~
东南亚最大的APP「打车神器」服务商Grab Taxi，计画开拓普吉计程车市场，这是Grab Taxi继曼谷、芭堤雅以及清莱之后瞄准的第4个城市，目的是让当地民众和游客可以更加容易召唤计程车，并享受更安全、更公平、更合法的打车服务。估计需要经过2-3个月的考察评估，之后即可决定是否在普吉府正式推出该服务。
普吉府府尹、海军第3军区副司令、普吉府运输管理负责人、普吉地方警察总署副署长、Grab Taxi公司副总经理，于昨天（24日）在普吉美林酒店召开新闻发布会，就Grab Taxi准备在普吉府推出APP叫车服务市场调查，征询当地计程车、私家计程车合作意向等进行说明。
府尹匿实表示，普吉府解决经济问题官民联合委员会经过讨论，决定推动普吉府计程车服务行业发展，为广大游客和当地民众提供更加优质的服务，让普吉的计程车服务达到规定的标准，同时吸引更多自由行客人到普吉旅游。目前该计画正在进行可行性调查评估过程中，同时与现有的计程车经营者进行沟通说明。
Grab Taxi公司代表指出，该公司计画在普吉推出APP叫车项目得到普吉府官方的大力支持，而该公司在曼谷、芭堤雅和清莱取得的成功经验，让他们相信同样可以在普吉获得推广和发展，为游客和当地民众提供更加便利、安全、公平和优质的服务。目前已经有50多辆计程车有意加入该公司的叫车服务系统，而该公司的目标是争取让加入APP叫车服务的车辆超过100辆。
普吉府计程车服务业落后、车辆不足、司机服务态度差、不打表随意叫价等问题突出，部分地区的计程车服务被少数当地人垄断，禁止其他车辆到所在区域载客，给游客出行带来诸多不便。
~以上新闻转自世界日报~
OTOP市集将亮相普吉 创收估300万
OTOP市集将亮相普吉 创收估300万
普吉府将于本月29日至8月4日，在Anuphas & Sons公司场地内举办「一镇一特产（OTOP）」市集活动，以此刺激泰国经济发展，并响应促进OTOP特产市场机制发展项目，推动旅游业获得持续性发展。本次活动预计可创收超过300万铢。
普吉府尹尼实于24日上午10时半，在普吉直辖县达拉艾镇龙婆路主持OTOP特产市集新闻发布会，宣布将于本月29日至8月4日在Anuphas & Sons公司场地内举办该活动。
尼实表示，不管是过去的每一届政府，还是现任政府，从2001年起一直认真执行政府出台的OTOP特产推广政策，旨在创造就业机会、增加民众收入、促进学习当地文化、整合人力资源、开拓社区民众新思维等。
他强调，普吉府十分重视当地OTOP特产的发展，包括每年投入大量预算用于新产品的开发与原有产品的推广，而本财政年度内普吉府针对OTOP特产市场机制促进发展项目，投入高达134万2600铢预算。项目涵盖3个活动，包括：1、展销来自经济自给自足社区的OTOP产品，投入预算40万铢；2、举办2015年普吉OTOP特色商品市集，投入80万铢预算；3、提升OTOP产品生产与市场发展潜力，投入14万2600铢。
本次OTOP市集活动共持续长达7天，活动期间将展示和销售来自全国各地区的优质OTOP产品，整个活动现场将有120个展位，而产品的价格也相当公道，其中普吉府承包了50个展位。
活动期间每个晚上都会为民众及游客献上来自学生的文化艺术表演，可谓是夜夜都精彩。相信整场活动将会创造不低于300万铢的收入。
~以上新闻转自世界日报~
普吉府将于本月29日至8月4日，在Anuphas & Sons公司场地内举办「一镇一特产（OTOP）」市集活动，以此刺激泰国经济发展，并响应促进OTOP特产市场机制发展项目，推动旅游业获得持续性发展。本次活动预计可创收超过300万铢。
普吉府尹尼实于24日上午10时半，在普吉直辖县达拉艾镇龙婆路主持OTOP特产市集新闻发布会，宣布将于本月29日至8月4日在Anuphas & Sons公司场地内举办该活动。
尼实表示，不管是过去的每一届政府，还是现任政府，从2001年起一直认真执行政府出台的OTOP特产推广政策，旨在创造就业机会、增加民众收入、促进学习当地文化、整合人力资源、开拓社区民众新思维等。
他强调，普吉府十分重视当地OTOP特产的发展，包括每年投入大量预算用于新产品的开发与原有产品的推广，而本财政年度内普吉府针对OTOP特产市场机制促进发展项目，投入高达134万2600铢预算。项目涵盖3个活动，包括：1、展销来自经济自给自足社区的OTOP产品，投入预算40万铢；2、举办2015年普吉OTOP特色商品市集，投入80万铢预算；3、提升OTOP产品生产与市场发展潜力，投入14万2600铢。
本次OTOP市集活动共持续长达7天，活动期间将展示和销售来自全国各地区的优质OTOP产品，整个活动现场将有120个展位，而产品的价格也相当公道，其中普吉府承包了50个展位。
活动期间每个晚上都会为民众及游客献上来自学生的文化艺术表演，可谓是夜夜都精彩。相信整场活动将会创造不低于300万铢的收入。
~以上新闻转自世界日报~
古城-双龙寺申遗 清迈开动员会
古城-双龙寺申遗 清迈开动员会
泰国有关部已向联合国科教文组织（UNESCO）提名清迈古城和素贴山双龙寺列入世界遗产初级名录，清迈府动员当地各部门为正式成为世界遗产将加强跟进工作，预计3年内可向教科文组织送交申遗资料，以作审议。
清迈府尹素力亚与艺术厅、清迈大学以及各部门代表召开会议，以动员相关部门工作人员共同为推动清迈古城与素贴山双龙寺申遗工作获得成功。
此前联合国教科文组织已经将清迈古城与素贴双龙寺提名列入世界遗产初级名录，为了推动申遗工作尽快取得成功，清迈府准备着手成立专门委员会，在2-3年内完成申遗审议所需资料的收集与整合工作。
枢密院大臣卡圣医师发表「重视保护清迈古城，成为世界遗产」演讲时指出，经过多年的持续性发展，现在的清迈府已经成为多个领域的重要枢纽，随着投资热的掀起，清迈城遭遇破坏的风险越来越高。因此，为了成功申请成为世界遗产，每一位民众应该互相监督，共同为申遗成功贡献力量。
~以上新闻转自世界日报~
泰国有关部已向联合国科教文组织（UNESCO）提名清迈古城和素贴山双龙寺列入世界遗产初级名录，清迈府动员当地各部门为正式成为世界遗产将加强跟进工作，预计3年内可向教科文组织送交申遗资料，以作审议。
清迈府尹素力亚与艺术厅、清迈大学以及各部门代表召开会议，以动员相关部门工作人员共同为推动清迈古城与素贴山双龙寺申遗工作获得成功。
此前联合国教科文组织已经将清迈古城与素贴双龙寺提名列入世界遗产初级名录，为了推动申遗工作尽快取得成功，清迈府准备着手成立专门委员会，在2-3年内完成申遗审议所需资料的收集与整合工作。
枢密院大臣卡圣医师发表「重视保护清迈古城，成为世界遗产」演讲时指出，经过多年的持续性发展，现在的清迈府已经成为多个领域的重要枢纽，随着投资热的掀起，清迈城遭遇破坏的风险越来越高。因此，为了成功申请成为世界遗产，每一位民众应该互相监督，共同为申遗成功贡献力量。
~以上新闻转自世界日报~
清迈夜间动物园展示珍奇金虎
清迈夜间动物园展示珍奇金虎
清迈夜间动物园宣布购买两头「金虎」，用于培育繁殖和展示，金虎是一种濒临绝种的动物，全身金黄色，有黑色的斑纹，野生已灭绝，全世界剩下不到50头，数量比雪虎更加稀少，而且拥有超萌的英文名字「草莓虎」(Strawberry Tiger)。
平卡纳空办事处副主任与清迈夜间动物园执行理事会昨天（27日）举行新闻发布会，宣布已购买了两头混血金虎，一头雄性和一头雌性，雄性金虎1岁6个月来自南非，为白虎和金虎杂交所生，而雌性金虎2岁1个月来自捷克，为白虎和西伯利亚虎杂交所生。目前，这种虎类全世界剩下不到50头，十分稀有。
匿娜帕副主任表示，金虎是一种很聪明的动物，喜欢群居，由于濒临绝种，清迈夜间动物园以每只450万泰铢的价格买来，用于培育繁殖，民众和游客可以前往Savanna Safari园区参观，开放时间为15:00-16:30和18:30-22:00。
~以上新闻转自世界日报~
清迈夜间动物园宣布购买两头「金虎」，用于培育繁殖和展示，金虎是一种濒临绝种的动物，全身金黄色，有黑色的斑纹，野生已灭绝，全世界剩下不到50头，数量比雪虎更加稀少，而且拥有超萌的英文名字「草莓虎」(Strawberry Tiger)。
平卡纳空办事处副主任与清迈夜间动物园执行理事会昨天（27日）举行新闻发布会，宣布已购买了两头混血金虎，一头雄性和一头雌性，雄性金虎1岁6个月来自南非，为白虎和金虎杂交所生，而雌性金虎2岁1个月来自捷克，为白虎和西伯利亚虎杂交所生。目前，这种虎类全世界剩下不到50头，十分稀有。
匿娜帕副主任表示，金虎是一种很聪明的动物，喜欢群居，由于濒临绝种，清迈夜间动物园以每只450万泰铢的价格买来，用于培育繁殖，民众和游客可以前往Savanna Safari园区参观，开放时间为15:00-16:30和18:30-22:00。
~以上新闻转自世界日报~
昆明-曼谷-廉差邦铁路 拟2020年通车
昆明-曼谷-廉差邦铁路 拟2020年通车
针对中国昆明-曼谷-廉差邦火车铁路建设项目，交通部预测，该项目可望在2020年完成施工并启动服务，包括考虑将原来的昆明-曼谷公路运输线，改为昆明-曼谷-廉差邦线。
泰国交通部长巴金上将昨天（27日）与寮国公共工程与运输部长本占，主持召开泰国-寮国交通部长级会议。
巴金上将于会后表示，此次会议主要讨论两国基础设施建设互联互通问题，以及两国公路和铁路运输问题，是两国就此类问题召开的第2次会议。两国之间相互连通的铁路线将有两条，包括越南-寮国-泰国以及中国-寮国-泰国铁路线，尤其是从中国延伸出境的1.435米标准轨距铁路，从昆明连通寮国的铁路线，还有长达520公里的距离没有铺设铁路，再加上从寮国边境到永珍也有417公里的距离未建铁路，预计将于今年年底启动施工，以跟得上将于今年10月启动的泰-中双轨铁路项目进展。由此可以预估，玛达普-曼谷-昆明铁路线将于2020年竣工。
对于将连接铁路线的泰-寮新友谊大桥建设项目，该座新友谊大桥将与现有的泰-寮友谊大桥距离仅30米，泰寮双方将共同研究各自负责的境内区域，在泰-中铁路线启动运营后，将立即开放服务。
此外，巴金上将指出，还将更仔细地研究泰国-寮国-中国的公路运输路线，可能会将原订的昆明-曼谷路线，改为昆明-曼谷-廉差邦运输线，同时泰方还需要与寮国运输经营商进行协商，运输货物时必须经过泰国边境码头，预计双方将会在8-9月期间展开讨论，具体工作包括修订泰国、寮国的相关法律条例，因为两国法律范畴存在差异。对此，两国特别设立工作小组，共同研究两国法律修订方案。
~以上新闻转自世界日报~
针对中国昆明-曼谷-廉差邦火车铁路建设项目，交通部预测，该项目可望在2020年完成施工并启动服务，包括考虑将原来的昆明-曼谷公路运输线，改为昆明-曼谷-廉差邦线。
泰国交通部长巴金上将昨天（27日）与寮国公共工程与运输部长本占，主持召开泰国-寮国交通部长级会议。
巴金上将于会后表示，此次会议主要讨论两国基础设施建设互联互通问题，以及两国公路和铁路运输问题，是两国就此类问题召开的第2次会议。两国之间相互连通的铁路线将有两条，包括越南-寮国-泰国以及中国-寮国-泰国铁路线，尤其是从中国延伸出境的1.435米标准轨距铁路，从昆明连通寮国的铁路线，还有长达520公里的距离没有铺设铁路，再加上从寮国边境到永珍也有417公里的距离未建铁路，预计将于今年年底启动施工，以跟得上将于今年10月启动的泰-中双轨铁路项目进展。由此可以预估，玛达普-曼谷-昆明铁路线将于2020年竣工。
对于将连接铁路线的泰-寮新友谊大桥建设项目，该座新友谊大桥将与现有的泰-寮友谊大桥距离仅30米，泰寮双方将共同研究各自负责的境内区域，在泰-中铁路线启动运营后，将立即开放服务。
此外，巴金上将指出，还将更仔细地研究泰国-寮国-中国的公路运输路线，可能会将原订的昆明-曼谷路线，改为昆明-曼谷-廉差邦运输线，同时泰方还需要与寮国运输经营商进行协商，运输货物时必须经过泰国边境码头，预计双方将会在8-9月期间展开讨论，具体工作包括修订泰国、寮国的相关法律条例，因为两国法律范畴存在差异。对此，两国特别设立工作小组，共同研究两国法律修订方案。
~以上新闻转自世界日报~
2015年7月22日星期三
丹诺亚洲文化村添景点‧亚洲最大象神开光
丹诺亚洲文化村添景点‧亚洲最大象神开光
以21公尺高成亚洲最大的象神，经一连3天的开光仪式后，再为MBI国际集团在泰南丹诺打造的亚洲文化村添观光景点。
主题性的牛仔城，將注入牛仔城的元素，打造成一个主题公园。（图：星洲日报）
丹诺打造成旅游城市
MBI国际集团近年来在泰南丹诺逐步开发旅游事业，除了旅游景区，还包括酒店及旅游相关行业等，如同將丹诺打造成一座旅游城市。
MBI国际集团自2013年末开发花灯园，隨后再逐步推行旅游开发计划，其中包括恐龙园、猪霸界、百兔园、熊猫园、越野四轮摩哆及水上活动等，而象神的落成与开光，则是该集团最新完成的计划与景点。
MBI斥资300万打造
MBI国际集团斥资300万令吉打造亚洲最大的象神，並邀得泰国副僧王哇特高僧（Phrak Phom Watt）主持开光。本月17至19日，一连三天的开光仪式，除了恭请副僧王哇特高僧主持，还邀得以砍三刀补运闻名泰国的高僧高级龙甫年，以及多名高僧蒞临参与诵经祈福，也吸引了马泰两国的佛友涌入丹诺，与眾高僧结缘。
除了上述旅游產品，MBI国际集团目前还有数项的计划在进行中，並预料將在今年杪能够完成並开放，当中包括未来城、龙门客栈、牛仔城等，皆为主题性的旅游乐园。而这些主题园中，除了有酒店及饮食中心，还有手信礼品店、咖啡厅等。
（星洲日报‧大北马）
以21公尺高成亚洲最大的象神，经一连3天的开光仪式后，再为MBI国际集团在泰南丹诺打造的亚洲文化村添观光景点。
主题性的牛仔城，將注入牛仔城的元素，打造成一个主题公园。（图：星洲日报）
丹诺打造成旅游城市
MBI国际集团近年来在泰南丹诺逐步开发旅游事业，除了旅游景区，还包括酒店及旅游相关行业等，如同將丹诺打造成一座旅游城市。
MBI国际集团自2013年末开发花灯园，隨后再逐步推行旅游开发计划，其中包括恐龙园、猪霸界、百兔园、熊猫园、越野四轮摩哆及水上活动等，而象神的落成与开光，则是该集团最新完成的计划与景点。
MBI斥资300万打造
MBI国际集团斥资300万令吉打造亚洲最大的象神，並邀得泰国副僧王哇特高僧（Phrak Phom Watt）主持开光。本月17至19日，一连三天的开光仪式，除了恭请副僧王哇特高僧主持，还邀得以砍三刀补运闻名泰国的高僧高级龙甫年，以及多名高僧蒞临参与诵经祈福，也吸引了马泰两国的佛友涌入丹诺，与眾高僧结缘。
除了上述旅游產品，MBI国际集团目前还有数项的计划在进行中，並预料將在今年杪能够完成並开放，当中包括未来城、龙门客栈、牛仔城等，皆为主题性的旅游乐园。而这些主题园中，除了有酒店及饮食中心，还有手信礼品店、咖啡厅等。
（星洲日报‧大北马）
泰国丹诺往黑木山关卡‧500公尺塞4小时！
泰国丹诺往黑木山关卡‧500公尺塞4小时！
从泰国丹诺关卡到大马黑木山关卡距离约500公尺，竟要4个小时才能通关入境。
从泰国丹诺关卡入境大马，大白天和夜晚的关卡与关卡之间，距离约500公尺的路段大堵塞，车龙从大马黑木山关卡排起至丹诺关卡，从丹诺入境大马竟要4小时。（图：星洲日报）
开斋节假日，吸引许多国民北上涌入泰南度假，游客趁前天（19日）假期结束前欲返回大马时，却在黑木山关卡面对严重堵车窘境，距离约500公尺的路程，却需堵上4小时才顺利入境。
国民游客困500公尺车龙里
《大北马》社区报记者日前到泰南丹诺执行採访工作，並於前天午后返回大马。对此，本报记者同样也堵在车龙里，与其他游客同样经歷了4个小时的堵车状况。
国民或是游客要入境大马，一般上在泰国丹诺关卡通关后，再到距离约500公尺的大马黑木山通关。办完入境手续后，还需接受关税局官员或普通行动部队检查，再前往约500公尺，另有缉私组的路障检查。
至於前天所发生的状况，也基於大马开斋节公假的缘故，准备返回大马的客流量倍增自然不在话下。但是，虽然在泰国丹诺关卡也出现人潮，但是只需约半个小时便顺利通关，却困在进入大马关卡的车龙里，而这约500公尺的车龙，却需要耗上4个小时才能顺利通关。
黑木山仅2车道操作
本报记者鑑於严重堵塞状况，在泰国昔罗关卡尝试瞭解状况时，先是听见困在车龙的人怨声四起，更从泰国丹诺关卡当跑腿者瞭解到，原本4条车道的黑木山关卡只有2条车道操作，所以就造成严重堵塞的状况。
也有等候通关者透露，有轿车因长时间启动而耗尽燃油，因此还被迫向泰国人购买瓶装燃油才能启动轿车，隨后驶过大马黑木山关卡。
此外，也有等候通关者因为卡在车龙里的时间太长，並且也进入晚饭时段，所以到关卡旁的档口买吃的与饮料充饥解渴。
民眾：移民局没规划人手
有公眾瞭解到堵车原因后破口批评移民局开设太少通关柜台，所以才导致严重堵车的窘境，並声声指责移民局没有好好规划假日繁忙时段的执勤人手安排。
本报记者堵了4个小时到大马黑木山关卡时，发现4条车道有3条在操作，在成功入境后，却一路无堵地通过关税局及缉私组的检查。
同时，本报记者也掌握最新消息，昨午的交通状况依然出现车龙，但是公眾只以约1个小时的时间就能通关。
操作车道少逢佳节必塞
不止入境塞，出境大马也要在大马黑木山关卡堵上5个小时。
本报记者获悉，开斋节首日（17日）当天要出境大马时，则困在车龙里5个小时才能成功出境。虽然在泰国丹诺关卡同样面对人潮的状况，但是却也不花多少时间就完成入境手续，成功进入泰国。
记者也发现，近年来大马黑木山关卡逢假日都发生严重堵塞问题，除了今次的开斋节假期，在劳动节及卫塞节连假时，也同样在黑木山关卡堵了约5个小时。
本报记者瞭解到，大致上针对这堵车问题都把矛头指向移民局，即没让所有的通道都完全操作，即类如前天傍晚记者经歷的状况，4条车道只有3条车道正在操作，或如公眾所指，更少的车道操作，所以才无法负荷要出入境的车流量。
本报记者也探悉，出入境大马的车流量，虽然在假日的上半天时段都非常繁忙，即会导致严重堵塞状况，但是入夜后会相对大量减少。
然而，此状况却不能形容在前天晚上所面对的堵塞问题。因为，在边界大闸在午夜时分拉上后，仍有许多轿车仍在关卡之间的车龙里。
莫哈末尤斯里：须接受3单位检查
加剧交通阻塞
吉打州移民局主任莫哈末尤斯里针对关卡大阻塞问题受询时说，由於车辆通过移民局柜台后，还得接受另2个执法单位的检查，所以才加剧了交通阻塞。
他说，当局平时都会开设三、四个入境柜台为入境者办理手续，但车辆入境后却遇上车道缩小且须接受另一组执法单位的检查。
他认为，关卡大阻塞是移民局柜台与关税局执法人员检查站距离太近了，虽然多次反映此问题，却未有很好的改善方式。
（星洲日报‧大北马）
从泰国丹诺关卡到大马黑木山关卡距离约500公尺，竟要4个小时才能通关入境。
从泰国丹诺关卡入境大马，大白天和夜晚的关卡与关卡之间，距离约500公尺的路段大堵塞，车龙从大马黑木山关卡排起至丹诺关卡，从丹诺入境大马竟要4小时。（图：星洲日报）
开斋节假日，吸引许多国民北上涌入泰南度假，游客趁前天（19日）假期结束前欲返回大马时，却在黑木山关卡面对严重堵车窘境，距离约500公尺的路程，却需堵上4小时才顺利入境。
国民游客困500公尺车龙里
《大北马》社区报记者日前到泰南丹诺执行採访工作，並於前天午后返回大马。对此，本报记者同样也堵在车龙里，与其他游客同样经歷了4个小时的堵车状况。
国民或是游客要入境大马，一般上在泰国丹诺关卡通关后，再到距离约500公尺的大马黑木山通关。办完入境手续后，还需接受关税局官员或普通行动部队检查，再前往约500公尺，另有缉私组的路障检查。
至於前天所发生的状况，也基於大马开斋节公假的缘故，准备返回大马的客流量倍增自然不在话下。但是，虽然在泰国丹诺关卡也出现人潮，但是只需约半个小时便顺利通关，却困在进入大马关卡的车龙里，而这约500公尺的车龙，却需要耗上4个小时才能顺利通关。
黑木山仅2车道操作
本报记者鑑於严重堵塞状况，在泰国昔罗关卡尝试瞭解状况时，先是听见困在车龙的人怨声四起，更从泰国丹诺关卡当跑腿者瞭解到，原本4条车道的黑木山关卡只有2条车道操作，所以就造成严重堵塞的状况。
也有等候通关者透露，有轿车因长时间启动而耗尽燃油，因此还被迫向泰国人购买瓶装燃油才能启动轿车，隨后驶过大马黑木山关卡。
此外，也有等候通关者因为卡在车龙里的时间太长，並且也进入晚饭时段，所以到关卡旁的档口买吃的与饮料充饥解渴。
民眾：移民局没规划人手
有公眾瞭解到堵车原因后破口批评移民局开设太少通关柜台，所以才导致严重堵车的窘境，並声声指责移民局没有好好规划假日繁忙时段的执勤人手安排。
本报记者堵了4个小时到大马黑木山关卡时，发现4条车道有3条在操作，在成功入境后，却一路无堵地通过关税局及缉私组的检查。
同时，本报记者也掌握最新消息，昨午的交通状况依然出现车龙，但是公眾只以约1个小时的时间就能通关。
操作车道少逢佳节必塞
不止入境塞，出境大马也要在大马黑木山关卡堵上5个小时。
本报记者获悉，开斋节首日（17日）当天要出境大马时，则困在车龙里5个小时才能成功出境。虽然在泰国丹诺关卡同样面对人潮的状况，但是却也不花多少时间就完成入境手续，成功进入泰国。
记者也发现，近年来大马黑木山关卡逢假日都发生严重堵塞问题，除了今次的开斋节假期，在劳动节及卫塞节连假时，也同样在黑木山关卡堵了约5个小时。
本报记者瞭解到，大致上针对这堵车问题都把矛头指向移民局，即没让所有的通道都完全操作，即类如前天傍晚记者经歷的状况，4条车道只有3条车道正在操作，或如公眾所指，更少的车道操作，所以才无法负荷要出入境的车流量。
本报记者也探悉，出入境大马的车流量，虽然在假日的上半天时段都非常繁忙，即会导致严重堵塞状况，但是入夜后会相对大量减少。
然而，此状况却不能形容在前天晚上所面对的堵塞问题。因为，在边界大闸在午夜时分拉上后，仍有许多轿车仍在关卡之间的车龙里。
莫哈末尤斯里：须接受3单位检查
加剧交通阻塞
吉打州移民局主任莫哈末尤斯里针对关卡大阻塞问题受询时说，由於车辆通过移民局柜台后，还得接受另2个执法单位的检查，所以才加剧了交通阻塞。
他说，当局平时都会开设三、四个入境柜台为入境者办理手续，但车辆入境后却遇上车道缩小且须接受另一组执法单位的检查。
他认为，关卡大阻塞是移民局柜台与关税局执法人员检查站距离太近了，虽然多次反映此问题，却未有很好的改善方式。
（星洲日报‧大北马）
2015年7月14日星期二
熊猫创创、林惠续留10年 清迈欢庆
熊猫创创、林惠续留10年 清迈欢庆
清迈动物园管理处与中国野生动物保护协会，于昨天27日在清迈皇家植物园举办庆祝宴会，以庆祝中国大熊猫「创创」和「林惠」获准继续留泰展示10年。中泰双方已于26日在研究与保护大熊猫合作协议书上签字。
清迈皇家植物园、清迈动物园管理处27日晚举办宴会，以表达庆祝两头大熊猫可以再继续留泰10年时间，清迈皇家动物园管理处之前与中国野生动物协会签署合作协仪书，以共同合作研究以及保护大熊猫。由皇家动物园管理处主席帕林，与中国野生动物保护协会副秘书长李青文共同在协议上签字。
按照双方签署的协议，创创和林惠将在清迈动物园继续展示及参与研究10年的时间，从2013年10月至2033年10月。原协议已在2013年10月终止。本月23日，自然资源与环境部在内阁会议上提议并获批准，中国野生动物保护协会派代表前往清迈，探望动物园里大熊猫，并参加这次宴会。
中国野生动物保护协会副秘书长李青文表示，对双方签署合作协议感到高兴，可以延长这对熊猫再留泰生活10年的时间，以表达中泰两国之间亲密友好的关系。一直以来创创和林惠在泰国生活，受到泰国民众的爱护并健康成长，同时也很感谢动物园工作人员对熊猫的关爱。这对熊猫能给泰国广大民众带来喜悦，并希望这样的欢乐时光可永久延续下去。
~以上新闻转自世界日报~
清迈动物园管理处与中国野生动物保护协会，于昨天27日在清迈皇家植物园举办庆祝宴会，以庆祝中国大熊猫「创创」和「林惠」获准继续留泰展示10年。中泰双方已于26日在研究与保护大熊猫合作协议书上签字。
清迈皇家植物园、清迈动物园管理处27日晚举办宴会，以表达庆祝两头大熊猫可以再继续留泰10年时间，清迈皇家动物园管理处之前与中国野生动物协会签署合作协仪书，以共同合作研究以及保护大熊猫。由皇家动物园管理处主席帕林，与中国野生动物保护协会副秘书长李青文共同在协议上签字。
按照双方签署的协议，创创和林惠将在清迈动物园继续展示及参与研究10年的时间，从2013年10月至2033年10月。原协议已在2013年10月终止。本月23日，自然资源与环境部在内阁会议上提议并获批准，中国野生动物保护协会派代表前往清迈，探望动物园里大熊猫，并参加这次宴会。
中国野生动物保护协会副秘书长李青文表示，对双方签署合作协议感到高兴，可以延长这对熊猫再留泰生活10年的时间，以表达中泰两国之间亲密友好的关系。一直以来创创和林惠在泰国生活，受到泰国民众的爱护并健康成长，同时也很感谢动物园工作人员对熊猫的关爱。这对熊猫能给泰国广大民众带来喜悦，并希望这样的欢乐时光可永久延续下去。
~以上新闻转自世界日报~
蜡烛上的艺术节 邬汶将迎守夏盛会
蜡烛上的艺术节 邬汶将迎守夏盛会
泰国与寮国交界的邬汶叻他尼府(Ubon Ratchathani)，也是泰国俗称伊善的东北部，每年7月的蜡烛节是当地最大庆典活动，园区内壁画国家公园是必游风景区。
泰国的邬汶叻他他尼府，距离曼谷约600公里，是泰国最东的一个府治，与寮国交界，18世纪时仍属于寮国，后来被泰国占有成为泰国76府之一，由于有湄公河流经区内，是个鱼米之乡。
要到邬汶府旅游最便捷的方式是自曼谷搭机，航程约1小时，除传统的泰国节日外，当地最著名的就是蜡烛节，每年7月下旬举行，在邬汶市中心封街大游行，除了传统泰式舞蹈外，最特别的是将巨型的蜡烛雕刻成传统神话故事主角和佛像，每座都超过数公吨的蜡烛所雕刻而成，栩栩如生的神佛身形和脸孔，是游人相机标的。
若错过蜡烛嘉年华盛会，其实邬汶省也珍贵的国家公园资源供你享用，与寮国隔着湄公河的壁画国家公园（Pha Taem National Park），在泰语中Pha是指着悬崖的意思，Taem则是指的绘画，这是在湄公河畔的一处超过1公里长，高约150公尺的大岩壁，上头有史前时代人类所留下的红色壁画，有湄公河的鲶鱼，大象野猪等和人类活动的壁画。
这里也是泰国最早见到日出的地区，泰国民众在新年假期会选择到此隔着湄公河观看从寮国境内山头升起新年的第一曙光，当地也有类似台湾野柳的蕈状岩地形。整个国家公园有分6个区域，大约有140平方公里，包括有森林、瀑布和野生动物，全区完整游览大约需要一天的时间。
~以上新闻转载自世界日报~
泰国与寮国交界的邬汶叻他尼府(Ubon Ratchathani)，也是泰国俗称伊善的东北部，每年7月的蜡烛节是当地最大庆典活动，园区内壁画国家公园是必游风景区。
泰国的邬汶叻他他尼府，距离曼谷约600公里，是泰国最东的一个府治，与寮国交界，18世纪时仍属于寮国，后来被泰国占有成为泰国76府之一，由于有湄公河流经区内，是个鱼米之乡。
要到邬汶府旅游最便捷的方式是自曼谷搭机，航程约1小时，除传统的泰国节日外，当地最著名的就是蜡烛节，每年7月下旬举行，在邬汶市中心封街大游行，除了传统泰式舞蹈外，最特别的是将巨型的蜡烛雕刻成传统神话故事主角和佛像，每座都超过数公吨的蜡烛所雕刻而成，栩栩如生的神佛身形和脸孔，是游人相机标的。
若错过蜡烛嘉年华盛会，其实邬汶省也珍贵的国家公园资源供你享用，与寮国隔着湄公河的壁画国家公园（Pha Taem National Park），在泰语中Pha是指着悬崖的意思，Taem则是指的绘画，这是在湄公河畔的一处超过1公里长，高约150公尺的大岩壁，上头有史前时代人类所留下的红色壁画，有湄公河的鲶鱼，大象野猪等和人类活动的壁画。
这里也是泰国最早见到日出的地区，泰国民众在新年假期会选择到此隔着湄公河观看从寮国境内山头升起新年的第一曙光，当地也有类似台湾野柳的蕈状岩地形。整个国家公园有分6个区域，大约有140平方公里，包括有森林、瀑布和野生动物，全区完整游览大约需要一天的时间。
~以上新闻转载自世界日报~
整顿考讪路秩序 肃清黑道
整顿考讪路秩序 肃清黑道
曼谷察纳颂堪警署警长普瓦东警中校昨天（12日）协同军方、警方和曼谷市政府共50多名相关工作人员，前往考讪路视察和推行整治秩序工作，包括对路边摆摊、黑道势力团伙以及交通情况进行处理。
普瓦东中校表示，考讪路是曼谷重要的观光街区，但在这里常常会遇见各种违法的事件，现在警方、军方和市政府决定对该区域进行全面整改，交通问题上，将严格管理停在路边载客的嘟嘟车，这次考察的结果相对满意，民众纷纷表示说这次警方与警方是动真格了。
据悉，在考讪路经常发生司机聚众打架事件，这些嘟嘟车和出租车是由非法牟利的黑势力团伙控制，之前，警方已经抓捕了一些人，而这次视察并未发现黑势力团伙，也许是知道这次军方和警方来的人数比较多。
整顿考察中还遇到有嘟嘟车司机投诉称被黑势力威胁不准在这里载客，那些人甚至称自己是负责管理载客车辆的，还有让嘟嘟车司机将外国游客带去自己经营的旅游公司，虽然这次没有遇到这些黑势力团伙，但是以后将严厉打击这些非法行为。
~以上新闻转载自世界日报~
曼谷察纳颂堪警署警长普瓦东警中校昨天（12日）协同军方、警方和曼谷市政府共50多名相关工作人员，前往考讪路视察和推行整治秩序工作，包括对路边摆摊、黑道势力团伙以及交通情况进行处理。
普瓦东中校表示，考讪路是曼谷重要的观光街区，但在这里常常会遇见各种违法的事件，现在警方、军方和市政府决定对该区域进行全面整改，交通问题上，将严格管理停在路边载客的嘟嘟车，这次考察的结果相对满意，民众纷纷表示说这次警方与警方是动真格了。
据悉，在考讪路经常发生司机聚众打架事件，这些嘟嘟车和出租车是由非法牟利的黑势力团伙控制，之前，警方已经抓捕了一些人，而这次视察并未发现黑势力团伙，也许是知道这次军方和警方来的人数比较多。
整顿考察中还遇到有嘟嘟车司机投诉称被黑势力威胁不准在这里载客，那些人甚至称自己是负责管理载客车辆的，还有让嘟嘟车司机将外国游客带去自己经营的旅游公司，虽然这次没有遇到这些黑势力团伙，但是以后将严厉打击这些非法行为。
~以上新闻转载自世界日报~
呵叻蜡烛节将至 工匠筹备精心之作
呵叻蜡烛节将至 工匠筹备精心之作
即将进入守夏节，呵叻府(Nakhon Ratchasima)直辖县卧佛寺内工匠正筹备月底的守夏节蜡烛盛会，这是10年来该寺庙的工匠再次相聚，全心打造一根长19米、高4.5米的大型工艺蜡烛。
呵叻府直辖县卧佛寺内43岁的工匠乃天表示，参与雕刻的除了寺庙日常工匠外，还有寺庙附近的村民和年轻人，20多人合力打造大型工艺蜡烛。此次在蜡烛上雕刻的花纹主要讲述古老文明，讲述佛家文化的传承。届时将有法师乘坐游行船只各处传法、有僧人行善施救等。
乃天指出，每年守夏节庆典活动的主要关注点都是在巨蜡工艺上，今年也不例外，而今年巨蜡游行花车出行肯定会引起轰动，因为从蜡烛身上民众可以看到一幅幅栩栩如生的画面，也能感受到美轮美奂的场景，深刻体验佛家文化的传承。
~以上新闻转载自世界日报~
即将进入守夏节，呵叻府(Nakhon Ratchasima)直辖县卧佛寺内工匠正筹备月底的守夏节蜡烛盛会，这是10年来该寺庙的工匠再次相聚，全心打造一根长19米、高4.5米的大型工艺蜡烛。
呵叻府直辖县卧佛寺内43岁的工匠乃天表示，参与雕刻的除了寺庙日常工匠外，还有寺庙附近的村民和年轻人，20多人合力打造大型工艺蜡烛。此次在蜡烛上雕刻的花纹主要讲述古老文明，讲述佛家文化的传承。届时将有法师乘坐游行船只各处传法、有僧人行善施救等。
乃天指出，每年守夏节庆典活动的主要关注点都是在巨蜡工艺上，今年也不例外，而今年巨蜡游行花车出行肯定会引起轰动，因为从蜡烛身上民众可以看到一幅幅栩栩如生的画面，也能感受到美轮美奂的场景，深刻体验佛家文化的传承。
~以上新闻转载自世界日报~
2015年7月1日星期三
Candles in the wind
Candles in the wind
Ubon Ratchathani is all set for its famed Candle Festival this month, marking the start of Vassa, the annual Buddhist Lent retreat.
The festival, which runs throughout July, culminates with huge, decorated candles being formally presented to local temples in a form of merit making for khao phansa, the Buddhist Lent.
Ubon Ratchathani prepares for the grand event with a series of showcases and activities to draw the visitors to the northeastern province. Arriving at Ubon Ratchathani airport, visitors are treated to a photo exhibition of amazing candle carvings.
The Buddhist Lent, the start of which coincides with the middle of the monsoon season, spans three lunar months during which monks are not allowed to stay overnight outside their own temples.
The retreat was the idea of the Lord Buddha, goes the history, and was intended to keep the monk at the temples rather than travelling around and walking on the rice crop during the rainy season. The community thus offers huge candles to their temples, allowing the monks sufficient light by which to meditate and recite the scriptures.
If you visit the temple on July 31, you may see Buddhists offering energy-saving light bulbs to the monks - they last longer.
The offering of the candles nonetheless continues, drawing more than 100,000 of tourists to Ubon Ratchathani alone.
The highlights are the demonstrations of candle carving, an international candle carving competition and the procession of the candles.
From July 18 to July 31, international artists will compete in a wax-carving competition. Some is avant-garde, while many are forward-looking pieces of candle. The artists will exhibit their pieces of art Thungsrimyang public square in Ubon Ratchathani.
A sightseeing tour of the candle-making communities is a must. Wat Sripradoo, Wat Thungsrimuang, Wat Pholphaen communities, for example, will show how the big floats of candle are taking shape. There, along with many local artist and Buddhist devotees, visitors will see the residents cut up and melt beeswax and pour it into moulds to form components of the huge, elaborate candles and their decorations.
On July 31, the parade begins at Thung Sri Muang Park in front of City Hall, where a giant wax pillar stands. More than 50 local temples each prepare a float.
If you go
<< Bangkok and Ubon Ratchathani are bridged by many daily domestic flights. Public buses also leave Bangkok daily. Accommodation is always fully booked during the candle festival, so you’re advised to reserve in advance.
<< For more about the festival, call (04) 524 3770 or visit www.TATUbon.org or www.GuideUbon.com.
~News courtesy of The Nation~
Ubon Ratchathani is all set for its famed Candle Festival this month, marking the start of Vassa, the annual Buddhist Lent retreat.
The festival, which runs throughout July, culminates with huge, decorated candles being formally presented to local temples in a form of merit making for khao phansa, the Buddhist Lent.
Ubon Ratchathani prepares for the grand event with a series of showcases and activities to draw the visitors to the northeastern province. Arriving at Ubon Ratchathani airport, visitors are treated to a photo exhibition of amazing candle carvings.
The Buddhist Lent, the start of which coincides with the middle of the monsoon season, spans three lunar months during which monks are not allowed to stay overnight outside their own temples.
The retreat was the idea of the Lord Buddha, goes the history, and was intended to keep the monk at the temples rather than travelling around and walking on the rice crop during the rainy season. The community thus offers huge candles to their temples, allowing the monks sufficient light by which to meditate and recite the scriptures.
If you visit the temple on July 31, you may see Buddhists offering energy-saving light bulbs to the monks - they last longer.
The offering of the candles nonetheless continues, drawing more than 100,000 of tourists to Ubon Ratchathani alone.
The highlights are the demonstrations of candle carving, an international candle carving competition and the procession of the candles.
From July 18 to July 31, international artists will compete in a wax-carving competition. Some is avant-garde, while many are forward-looking pieces of candle. The artists will exhibit their pieces of art Thungsrimyang public square in Ubon Ratchathani.
A sightseeing tour of the candle-making communities is a must. Wat Sripradoo, Wat Thungsrimuang, Wat Pholphaen communities, for example, will show how the big floats of candle are taking shape. There, along with many local artist and Buddhist devotees, visitors will see the residents cut up and melt beeswax and pour it into moulds to form components of the huge, elaborate candles and their decorations.
On July 31, the parade begins at Thung Sri Muang Park in front of City Hall, where a giant wax pillar stands. More than 50 local temples each prepare a float.
If you go
<< Bangkok and Ubon Ratchathani are bridged by many daily domestic flights. Public buses also leave Bangkok daily. Accommodation is always fully booked during the candle festival, so you’re advised to reserve in advance.
<< For more about the festival, call (04) 524 3770 or visit www.TATUbon.org or www.GuideUbon.com.
~News courtesy of The Nation~
2015年6月22日星期一
清迈芒果季登场 香芒风暴袭来
清迈芒果季登场 香芒风暴袭来
清迈府举办本年度「芒果季」活动，大力展销各种类芒果，希望吸引国内外消费者，目前日本、中国、南韩等国家对泰国产芒果有大量的市场需求，每年创造收入不低于3亿铢。
清迈府副府尹素帕差昨天（18日）在清迈市政厅主持第6届清迈芒果季，参加活动的还有清迈府农业办事处、芒果种植户以及相关机构代表。
此次活动将持续至19日，力争打响清迈芒果在国内外的知名度，鼓励农民生产优质芒果，扩大出口市场。
清迈府农业办事处主任素贴表示，目前清迈府优质芒果的种植面积超过3万莱，主要集中在清刀县、美登县，并不存在市场需求问题，特别是黄金芒果等高品质品种，市场需求量很大。这给芒果种植户以及清迈的整体经济带来很好的收益，日本、中国、南韩依然是重要的出口国家，每年实现的效益不低于3亿铢。
这次芒果季现场同时还举办多种活动，包括多个品种的芒果展示、芒果产量比赛、芒果生产知识展览等，民众和游客能购买到便宜质优的芒果。
~以上新闻转载自世界日报~
清迈府举办本年度「芒果季」活动，大力展销各种类芒果，希望吸引国内外消费者，目前日本、中国、南韩等国家对泰国产芒果有大量的市场需求，每年创造收入不低于3亿铢。
清迈府副府尹素帕差昨天（18日）在清迈市政厅主持第6届清迈芒果季，参加活动的还有清迈府农业办事处、芒果种植户以及相关机构代表。
此次活动将持续至19日，力争打响清迈芒果在国内外的知名度，鼓励农民生产优质芒果，扩大出口市场。
清迈府农业办事处主任素贴表示，目前清迈府优质芒果的种植面积超过3万莱，主要集中在清刀县、美登县，并不存在市场需求问题，特别是黄金芒果等高品质品种，市场需求量很大。这给芒果种植户以及清迈的整体经济带来很好的收益，日本、中国、南韩依然是重要的出口国家，每年实现的效益不低于3亿铢。
这次芒果季现场同时还举办多种活动，包括多个品种的芒果展示、芒果产量比赛、芒果生产知识展览等，民众和游客能购买到便宜质优的芒果。
~以上新闻转载自世界日报~
MERS防控有效 泰保健游受青睐
MERS防控有效 泰保健游受青睐
泰国卫生部于昨天（22日）表示，从18日发现首例中东呼吸症候群（MERS）病例后，至今未再新增确诊病例，而诊出的首例中东病患目前病情逐渐好转。卫生部要求所有要到泰国医疗的外国人都必须经过检测。而泰国身为医疗观光枢纽的地位，或许可以协助泰国遏止MERS扩散。
卫生部表示，18日确诊感染MERS的阿曼人，经治疗后目前已没有高烧，病情稳定，他的家人也都经过检测确认未感染MERS，其余密切接触者都逐渐排除感染，也就是说，目前在泰国只有一名确诊病患。
这名病患将接受隔离监控治疗满14天，如果没有其他症状，则可望在7月4日出院。
不过卫生部对来泰国的外国旅客仍有顾虑，特别是来自南韩和中东地区，尤其是前来泰国健检医疗的游客，泰国卫生部也要求对这些前来医疗健检者，必须先经过MERS检测，确认未感染才能入境泰国。
观光与体育部长果甘女士表示，目前并未有旅游团体因泰国有首例MERS而取消前来泰国的情况，仍看好今年泰国旅游市场。 「我们有经验处理来自高风险地区，像是中东和南韩的外籍旅客和医疗观光客。泰国也已作好准备，因为我们有南韩的前车之鉴。」
泰国医疗观光协会表示，泰国观光业占全国经济比重约10%，泰国同时也是东南亚患者寻求低收费、高品质医疗保健的首选地点，平均每年有140万名观光医疗游客，相较之下新加坡是60万。
~以上新闻转载自世界日报~
泰国卫生部于昨天（22日）表示，从18日发现首例中东呼吸症候群（MERS）病例后，至今未再新增确诊病例，而诊出的首例中东病患目前病情逐渐好转。卫生部要求所有要到泰国医疗的外国人都必须经过检测。而泰国身为医疗观光枢纽的地位，或许可以协助泰国遏止MERS扩散。
卫生部表示，18日确诊感染MERS的阿曼人，经治疗后目前已没有高烧，病情稳定，他的家人也都经过检测确认未感染MERS，其余密切接触者都逐渐排除感染，也就是说，目前在泰国只有一名确诊病患。
这名病患将接受隔离监控治疗满14天，如果没有其他症状，则可望在7月4日出院。
不过卫生部对来泰国的外国旅客仍有顾虑，特别是来自南韩和中东地区，尤其是前来泰国健检医疗的游客，泰国卫生部也要求对这些前来医疗健检者，必须先经过MERS检测，确认未感染才能入境泰国。
观光与体育部长果甘女士表示，目前并未有旅游团体因泰国有首例MERS而取消前来泰国的情况，仍看好今年泰国旅游市场。 「我们有经验处理来自高风险地区，像是中东和南韩的外籍旅客和医疗观光客。泰国也已作好准备，因为我们有南韩的前车之鉴。」
泰国医疗观光协会表示，泰国观光业占全国经济比重约10%，泰国同时也是东南亚患者寻求低收费、高品质医疗保健的首选地点，平均每年有140万名观光医疗游客，相较之下新加坡是60万。
~以上新闻转载自世界日报~
Staying safe from MERS
Staying safe from MERS
Southeast Asia is now on alert for the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome, the coronavirus known as MERS as cases in South Korea continue to climb. First detected in the Middle East in 2012 and transported to Korea by a businessman returning from the Middle East, travel-associated cases have also been identified in several other countries including China, Egypt, France, Germany, the UK and the US.
The MERS outbreak in South Korea has led to Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan warning nationals about travelling to South Korea. Singapore Airlines is waiving cancellation fees and administration fees for refunds, rebookings and reroutings for customers holding tickets on the airline's flights to or from Seoul's Incheon International Airport.
For its part, Thailand is following the WHO guidelines and has not issued a "red alert" warning against non-essential travel to South Korea - which is one of the most popular destination among Thai tourists. Here we review the guidelines of WHO and Thailand's Bureau of Epidemiology, and what you should know about MERS before heading to the airport.
>> What is MERS?
MERS or Middle East respiratory syndrome is a viral respiratory disease caused by a novel coronavirus (MERS-CoV).Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses that can cause diseases ranging from the common cold to Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS). The MERS virus is considered a deadlier but less infectious cousin of SARS.
>> Where are the risk areas?
The virus appears to be circulating throughout the Arabian Peninsula, primarily in Saudi Arabia, where the majority of cases have been reported since 2012. As people are travelling across the globe every day, several cases have been reported outside the Middle East.
>> How could you get it?
According to the WHO, the virus is a zoonotic virus that is transmitted from animals to humans and also passes from person to person in close contact. The origins of the virus are not fully understood but camels are likely to be a major reservoir host for the virus and an animal source of infection in humans.
>> Define "in close contact".
Situations like health care officer providing unprotected care to an infected patient, people visiting MERS patients or staying in the same close environment of a patient, working together in close proximity or sharing the same classroom environment with a patient, travelling together with a patient in any kind of conveyance or living in the same household as a patient are all examples of in close contact.
>> How long is the incubation period?
The incubation period of the disease is generally less than one week, but can be as long as 14 days.
>> What are typical MERS symptoms?
The symptoms of MERS range from no symptoms, mild respiratory symptoms to severe acute respiratory disease and death. A typical sign is fever, cough and shortness of breath. Pneumonia is a common finding, but not always present. Gastrointestinal symptoms, including diarrhoea, have also been reported.
>> Who is prone to the disease?
It appears to hit most severely people with weakened immune systems, older people, and those with chronic diseases such as diabetes, cancer and lung disease.
>> Is there any vaccine or medication specifically for MERS?
No vaccine or specific treatment is currently available. Treatment is supportive and based on the patient's clinical condition.
>> Is there any way to lower a risk of getting the virus while travelling?
Avoiding close contact with people suffering from acute respiratory infections. Frequent hand-washing, especially after direct contact with ill people or their environment. Avoiding close contact with live farm or wild animals. Avoiding undercooked meats, unsafe water, raw fruits and vegetables unless they have been peeled. When going to public venues with large crowds, wearing a mask also help.
>> What to do if I develop symptoms during travel or after my return from countries where MERS is known to be circulating?
You are encouraged to seek medical attention and to share your history of travel. People with symptoms of acute respiratory infection should practice cough etiquette (maintain distance, cover coughs and sneezes with disposable tissues or clothing, and wash hands).
~News courtesy of The Nation~
Southeast Asia is now on alert for the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome, the coronavirus known as MERS as cases in South Korea continue to climb. First detected in the Middle East in 2012 and transported to Korea by a businessman returning from the Middle East, travel-associated cases have also been identified in several other countries including China, Egypt, France, Germany, the UK and the US.
The MERS outbreak in South Korea has led to Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan warning nationals about travelling to South Korea. Singapore Airlines is waiving cancellation fees and administration fees for refunds, rebookings and reroutings for customers holding tickets on the airline's flights to or from Seoul's Incheon International Airport.
For its part, Thailand is following the WHO guidelines and has not issued a "red alert" warning against non-essential travel to South Korea - which is one of the most popular destination among Thai tourists. Here we review the guidelines of WHO and Thailand's Bureau of Epidemiology, and what you should know about MERS before heading to the airport.
>> What is MERS?
MERS or Middle East respiratory syndrome is a viral respiratory disease caused by a novel coronavirus (MERS-CoV).Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses that can cause diseases ranging from the common cold to Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS). The MERS virus is considered a deadlier but less infectious cousin of SARS.
>> Where are the risk areas?
The virus appears to be circulating throughout the Arabian Peninsula, primarily in Saudi Arabia, where the majority of cases have been reported since 2012. As people are travelling across the globe every day, several cases have been reported outside the Middle East.
>> How could you get it?
According to the WHO, the virus is a zoonotic virus that is transmitted from animals to humans and also passes from person to person in close contact. The origins of the virus are not fully understood but camels are likely to be a major reservoir host for the virus and an animal source of infection in humans.
>> Define "in close contact".
Situations like health care officer providing unprotected care to an infected patient, people visiting MERS patients or staying in the same close environment of a patient, working together in close proximity or sharing the same classroom environment with a patient, travelling together with a patient in any kind of conveyance or living in the same household as a patient are all examples of in close contact.
>> How long is the incubation period?
The incubation period of the disease is generally less than one week, but can be as long as 14 days.
>> What are typical MERS symptoms?
The symptoms of MERS range from no symptoms, mild respiratory symptoms to severe acute respiratory disease and death. A typical sign is fever, cough and shortness of breath. Pneumonia is a common finding, but not always present. Gastrointestinal symptoms, including diarrhoea, have also been reported.
>> Who is prone to the disease?
It appears to hit most severely people with weakened immune systems, older people, and those with chronic diseases such as diabetes, cancer and lung disease.
>> Is there any vaccine or medication specifically for MERS?
No vaccine or specific treatment is currently available. Treatment is supportive and based on the patient's clinical condition.
>> Is there any way to lower a risk of getting the virus while travelling?
Avoiding close contact with people suffering from acute respiratory infections. Frequent hand-washing, especially after direct contact with ill people or their environment. Avoiding close contact with live farm or wild animals. Avoiding undercooked meats, unsafe water, raw fruits and vegetables unless they have been peeled. When going to public venues with large crowds, wearing a mask also help.
>> What to do if I develop symptoms during travel or after my return from countries where MERS is known to be circulating?
You are encouraged to seek medical attention and to share your history of travel. People with symptoms of acute respiratory infection should practice cough etiquette (maintain distance, cover coughs and sneezes with disposable tissues or clothing, and wash hands).
~News courtesy of The Nation~
Free rides to the museum
Free rides to the museum
a view from the fourth floor of the Nitas Rattanakosin
Thais are not known for their love of museums, with many citing heavy traffic, difficulties parking and hot weather as reasons not to visit.
But now there's no excuses, thanks to an initiative from the King Prajadhipok Museum, which has joined with neighbouring venues on Ratchadamnoen Klang Avenue in offering free parking and a shuttle service on weekends.
Located where Phan Fah Bridge meets Lan Luang Road, the museum has done a deal with the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration for free use of the city's two-storey underground parking structure during a pilot project, which runs from July through September.
The shuttle will travel in a circular route and stop at the King Prajadhipok Museum, Nitas Rattanakosin and the Ratchadamnoen Contemporary Art Centre before going back the BMA.
"We want to lure Thais to visit the museums in this area and we're hoping this pilot project will do the trick," says King Prajadhipok Museum president Thongthong Chantarangsu.
A former permanent secretary to the Prime Minister's Office, Thongthong adds that the three venues are not distant from each other but often seem miles apart because of the neighbourhood's notoriously congested traffic. "Our aim is to help people to enjoy the cultural activities in the area, he says".
For inspiration, he points to New York's "Museum Mile", an area with one of the densest displays of culture in the world. Three blocks long, nearly two kilometres, the section of Fifth Avenue is home to nine museums. Ratchadamnoen Klang Avenue, he says, has much the same cultural content though the distances between venues is shorter.
"It is just 500 metres from King Prajadhipok Museum to the Democracy Monument where we have museums, a thrilling exhibition hall like Nitas Rattanakosin and the Ratchadamnoen Contemporary Art Centre. By providing a shuttle service, we think we can get Thais to visit and drink in the knowledge and entertainment we provide," says Thongthong.
The King Prajadhipok Museum is housed in a three-storey colonial-style building dating to 1906.
It first housed a store then the Department of Public Works and Town and Country Planning before being handed over to the Prajadhipok Institute. It has operated as a museum since 2002 and showcases the personal effects of King Rama VII and Queen Rambai Barni, including photographs, films and documents.
It also presents the significant historical events that occurred during King Prajadhipok's reign, including the 150th anniversary of the Rattanakosin era through a mock-up of the Sala Chalermkrung Theatre, which was built to mark the anniversary, and the 1932 Revolution and the Conferment of the first Constitution of Thailand
The complex also has three smaller museums - the Thai Parliament Museum, the Thai Cabinet Museum and the Royal Thai Orders and Decorations Museum - in the Rambai Barni building, behind the museum.
"The museums are filled with historical photography as well as exquisite items and make it a pleasure to learn about our history," Thongthong says. "It obviously more entertaining to visit with a tour guide but if not, we have interactive displays in every area."
Visitors can next head to Nitas Rattanakosin, aka the Rattanakosin Exhibition Hall, which is in a renovated structure next to Maha Chetsadabodin Pavilion Square. In addition to the high-tech interactive displays, there's a view from the fourth floor where visitors can take in the historic surroundings, including the metal-shrouded Loha Prasat, Phookhao Thong (Golden Mount), Wat Saket and other landmarks.
A mere few steps from the exhibition hall is the Ratchadamnoen Contemporary Art Centre, which is under supervision of the Culture Ministry's Office of Contemporary Art and Culture and has rotating exhibitions every three months.
Thongthong adds that Thais worried about culture overload needn't visit all the museums in one go.
"The Museum Route project will run for three months. You can go to just one place and then enjoy the rest of the weekend by sampling the delicious food at the famous shops around here," says Thongthong. "If the project earns a good response, then we will think about extend the service. But we have to wait and see," says Thongthong.
And those thinking of simply taking advantage of the free parking without visiting the museums can forget the idea. Protocols will be in place to prevent any such trickery.
VISITING TIME
The Museum Route shuttle vans run from the BMA every 20 minutes from 10am to 8pm on Saturdays and Sundays from July 4 to September 27.
For free parking vouchers, send a message through www.Facebook.com/|kingprajadhipokmuseum.
Admission is free at the King Prajadhipok Museum and the three smaller museums in the compound.
Admission to Nitas Rattanakosin is Bt100. Students, monks and the elderly get in free. It's also free for visitors after 5pm for the light and sound presentation and window display, which gets underway at 7pm.
Admission is also free at the Ratchadamnoen Contemporary Art Centre.
~News courtesy of The Nation~
a view from the fourth floor of the Nitas Rattanakosin
Thais are not known for their love of museums, with many citing heavy traffic, difficulties parking and hot weather as reasons not to visit.
But now there's no excuses, thanks to an initiative from the King Prajadhipok Museum, which has joined with neighbouring venues on Ratchadamnoen Klang Avenue in offering free parking and a shuttle service on weekends.
Located where Phan Fah Bridge meets Lan Luang Road, the museum has done a deal with the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration for free use of the city's two-storey underground parking structure during a pilot project, which runs from July through September.
The shuttle will travel in a circular route and stop at the King Prajadhipok Museum, Nitas Rattanakosin and the Ratchadamnoen Contemporary Art Centre before going back the BMA.
"We want to lure Thais to visit the museums in this area and we're hoping this pilot project will do the trick," says King Prajadhipok Museum president Thongthong Chantarangsu.
A former permanent secretary to the Prime Minister's Office, Thongthong adds that the three venues are not distant from each other but often seem miles apart because of the neighbourhood's notoriously congested traffic. "Our aim is to help people to enjoy the cultural activities in the area, he says".
For inspiration, he points to New York's "Museum Mile", an area with one of the densest displays of culture in the world. Three blocks long, nearly two kilometres, the section of Fifth Avenue is home to nine museums. Ratchadamnoen Klang Avenue, he says, has much the same cultural content though the distances between venues is shorter.
"It is just 500 metres from King Prajadhipok Museum to the Democracy Monument where we have museums, a thrilling exhibition hall like Nitas Rattanakosin and the Ratchadamnoen Contemporary Art Centre. By providing a shuttle service, we think we can get Thais to visit and drink in the knowledge and entertainment we provide," says Thongthong.
The King Prajadhipok Museum is housed in a three-storey colonial-style building dating to 1906.
It first housed a store then the Department of Public Works and Town and Country Planning before being handed over to the Prajadhipok Institute. It has operated as a museum since 2002 and showcases the personal effects of King Rama VII and Queen Rambai Barni, including photographs, films and documents.
It also presents the significant historical events that occurred during King Prajadhipok's reign, including the 150th anniversary of the Rattanakosin era through a mock-up of the Sala Chalermkrung Theatre, which was built to mark the anniversary, and the 1932 Revolution and the Conferment of the first Constitution of Thailand
The complex also has three smaller museums - the Thai Parliament Museum, the Thai Cabinet Museum and the Royal Thai Orders and Decorations Museum - in the Rambai Barni building, behind the museum.
"The museums are filled with historical photography as well as exquisite items and make it a pleasure to learn about our history," Thongthong says. "It obviously more entertaining to visit with a tour guide but if not, we have interactive displays in every area."
Visitors can next head to Nitas Rattanakosin, aka the Rattanakosin Exhibition Hall, which is in a renovated structure next to Maha Chetsadabodin Pavilion Square. In addition to the high-tech interactive displays, there's a view from the fourth floor where visitors can take in the historic surroundings, including the metal-shrouded Loha Prasat, Phookhao Thong (Golden Mount), Wat Saket and other landmarks.
A mere few steps from the exhibition hall is the Ratchadamnoen Contemporary Art Centre, which is under supervision of the Culture Ministry's Office of Contemporary Art and Culture and has rotating exhibitions every three months.
Thongthong adds that Thais worried about culture overload needn't visit all the museums in one go.
"The Museum Route project will run for three months. You can go to just one place and then enjoy the rest of the weekend by sampling the delicious food at the famous shops around here," says Thongthong. "If the project earns a good response, then we will think about extend the service. But we have to wait and see," says Thongthong.
And those thinking of simply taking advantage of the free parking without visiting the museums can forget the idea. Protocols will be in place to prevent any such trickery.
VISITING TIME
The Museum Route shuttle vans run from the BMA every 20 minutes from 10am to 8pm on Saturdays and Sundays from July 4 to September 27.
For free parking vouchers, send a message through www.Facebook.com/|kingprajadhipokmuseum.
Admission is free at the King Prajadhipok Museum and the three smaller museums in the compound.
Admission to Nitas Rattanakosin is Bt100. Students, monks and the elderly get in free. It's also free for visitors after 5pm for the light and sound presentation and window display, which gets underway at 7pm.
Admission is also free at the Ratchadamnoen Contemporary Art Centre.
~News courtesy of The Nation~
2015年6月12日星期五
Airports on alert
Airports on alert
Three thermoscan inspection points are in place at Suvarnabhumi Airport as the nation gets ready for the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS).
Phet Chancharoen, director of Airport Department, Suvarnabhumi Airport, said that the inspections have started since June 2. Medical supports are also ready.
Today, the airport officials had a meeting with disease control officials.
Thai health officials confirmed there is zero MERS case in Thailand but the country is on alert for travellers from risk countries. Officers stand by at Muang Thong Thani where some 4,000 Korean nationals are attending a conference.
At Chiang Mai International Airport, officers are instructed to pay special attention to those travelling from South Korea and China.
Travellers whose body temperature is above 38 degree Celcius will be quarantined.
During May 1-June 4, a number of 66,865 visitors from South Korea and the Middle East entered Thailand through Phuket International Airport.
Monruedee Ketphan, director of the airport, said that no passenger showed symptoms.
The World Health Organization said Friday it would soon call an emergency meeting on the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) as the death toll from the virus rises in South Korea.
South Korea has suffered the largest outbreak of the virus outside Saudi Arabia.
A 72-year-old woman became the latest fatality on Friday after being infected by a MERS patient at a hospital, the health ministry said, taking the death toll in the country to 11.
So far, 126 cases have been recorded in South Korea since May 20 when the first case surfaced.
Currently, 3,680 people are under quarantine. A total of 1,249 people have been released from quarantine.
WHO’s "emergency committee will meet soon" to discuss the crisis, spokesman Tarik Jasarevic told reporters in Geneva, without specifying a date.
He stressed that "the number of new cases is decreasing," but warned: "we have to monitor the situation."
The committee will determine whether the current outbreak "constitutes a global health emergency crisis," he said.
MERS symptoms range from flu-like aches and pains to pneumonia and kidney failure.
The virus is considered a deadlier cousin of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS), which appeared in 2003 and killed more than 800 around the world.
Globally, some 1,200 people have been infected with MERS and some 450 have died since the virus first emerged in 2012.
~News courtesy of The Nation~
Three thermoscan inspection points are in place at Suvarnabhumi Airport as the nation gets ready for the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS).
Phet Chancharoen, director of Airport Department, Suvarnabhumi Airport, said that the inspections have started since June 2. Medical supports are also ready.
Today, the airport officials had a meeting with disease control officials.
Thai health officials confirmed there is zero MERS case in Thailand but the country is on alert for travellers from risk countries. Officers stand by at Muang Thong Thani where some 4,000 Korean nationals are attending a conference.
At Chiang Mai International Airport, officers are instructed to pay special attention to those travelling from South Korea and China.
Travellers whose body temperature is above 38 degree Celcius will be quarantined.
During May 1-June 4, a number of 66,865 visitors from South Korea and the Middle East entered Thailand through Phuket International Airport.
Monruedee Ketphan, director of the airport, said that no passenger showed symptoms.
The World Health Organization said Friday it would soon call an emergency meeting on the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) as the death toll from the virus rises in South Korea.
South Korea has suffered the largest outbreak of the virus outside Saudi Arabia.
A 72-year-old woman became the latest fatality on Friday after being infected by a MERS patient at a hospital, the health ministry said, taking the death toll in the country to 11.
So far, 126 cases have been recorded in South Korea since May 20 when the first case surfaced.
Currently, 3,680 people are under quarantine. A total of 1,249 people have been released from quarantine.
WHO’s "emergency committee will meet soon" to discuss the crisis, spokesman Tarik Jasarevic told reporters in Geneva, without specifying a date.
He stressed that "the number of new cases is decreasing," but warned: "we have to monitor the situation."
The committee will determine whether the current outbreak "constitutes a global health emergency crisis," he said.
MERS symptoms range from flu-like aches and pains to pneumonia and kidney failure.
The virus is considered a deadlier cousin of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS), which appeared in 2003 and killed more than 800 around the world.
Globally, some 1,200 people have been infected with MERS and some 450 have died since the virus first emerged in 2012.
~News courtesy of The Nation~
2015年4月13日星期一
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