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SWIFT-WISE Breakeven?
TT rate (which is what SWIFT transfers get converted) was 32.63 at BBL on 20 June. https://www.bangkokbank.com/en/personal/other-services/view-rates/foreign-exchange-rates -
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Transport Phuket Says Farewell to Pink Buses in Favour of Electric Fleet
Picture courtesy of PPAO In a significant leap towards sustainable transport, Phuket has replaced its iconic pink Pho Thong buses with a modern fleet of 24 electric buses. This move forms part of a broader strategy to embrace greener transportation solutions on the island. For decades, the pink Pho Thong buses were a beloved feature of Phuket Town, recognised for their distinctive design. These buses, adapted from six-wheeled flatbed trucks, featured wooden bench seating and railings. Introduced in 2008 under Paiboon Upatising's leadership, the Pho Thong buses quickly became an integral part of the area's character. They were charmingly named after the Mandarin word "pǔtōng", meaning "ordinary", acknowledging the ethnic Chinese community in Phuket. The pink hue of the buses reflected the provincial colour of Phuket. The last Pho Thong bus journey took place on June 4th, completing the Red Line route from Chalong Pier to SuperCheap in Ratsada. Post-service, the buses have been donated to local schools, temples, mosques, and charities, with some set for repainting. The transition to electric buses has been met with mixed emotions, with many nostalgic for the old vehicles. However, Rewat Areerob, the current President of the Phuket Provincial Administrative Organisation (PPAO), stresses that the change aims to reduce maintenance costs while contributing to environmental targets. The electric buses also offer greater comfort, particularly during Phuket’s rainy season, when the open-air Pho Thong buses were less practical. Picture courtesy of The Thaiger Despite lacking the vivid look, the new blue and white electric buses signify a step forward in sustainability. Rewat encourages the community to view this positively. Manufactured in China, these Asiastar JS6860GHN NG city buses are equipped with air conditioning, seating for 23 passengers, USB charging ports, 24-hour CCTV, and accessibility for wheelchairs. Each bus can travel up to 150 kilometres on a single charge, with recharging taking just one to two hours. Charging stations are currently available at Saphan Hin and near Ratsada Pier, with another expected at Chalong Pier by September. The fare remains accessible at a flat rate of 15 baht, with complimentary rides for students, senior citizens, monks, and individuals with disabilities. As for the transition's impact on employment, former Pho Thong drivers have the chance to continue working, provided they pass a qualification test. Additionally, some drivers have been offered new roles through the Phuket City Development Company (PKCD), according to The Phuket News. The new electric buses now serve the existing Pho Thong routes. Seven buses run on the Yellow Line from Saphan Hin to Central Phuket, another seven on the Green Line from Ratsada Pier to Baan Kathu School, and the remaining ten cover the Red Line connecting Chalong Pier to SuperCheap. This strategic rollout began in December and reached full capacity by June, ensuring that the community’s transport needs continue to be met seamlessly. This transition marks a significant milestone in Phuket's commitment to sustainable development, reflecting a forward-thinking approach to urban mobility while maintaining a focus on community needs and environmental impact. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-06-23 -
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Iran orders closure of Strait of Hormuz — putting one-fifth of world’s oil supply at risk
Thanks, I think I'm getting a handle on this "rules-based international order" thingie. Guess it's okay under international law for China to bomb the Philippines or Australia if they get the urge......If supported by other countries.........Russia or North Korea or what's left of Iran. International law is fun. -
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Iran orders closure of Strait of Hormuz — putting one-fifth of world’s oil supply at risk
Easy, the same way there were numerous bombing raids in Yemen last year with the Biden admin, the UK and supported by numerous other countries- 1
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AN is going down the drain
It used to be more picture sharing of travelling, building, farming, food, cooking, motorbikes, and general curiosity about everything. You could actually find travel reports and pictures without negative comments, and accusing of showing off. Well most back then where closer to 60 than 80. Also our money where double than now, and Well that should sums up the core of the destruction we see. And Donald was not a thing yet.
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