Thailand Live Wednesday 26 Jan 2011

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Defence volunteer seriously wounded in shooting attack in Narathiwat's Rangae district while riding motorcycle to work /MCOT

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Parliament passes 375:125 MP ratio by 298 to 211 votes; 3rd reading scheduled for Feb 11 /TAN_Network

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4th Army Region commander: bomb attack which killed 9 civilians in Yaha, Yala is retribution for extrajudicial killing of insurgent /TAN_Network

4 prisoners broke out of Songkhla prison; 1 arrested already while 3 still on the run /TAN_Network

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PAD to file malfeasance suit against PM and Suthep for allowing Thailand to lose sovereignty; file impeachment suit with NACC /TAN_Network

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Five world leaders in medicine to receive royal honor today

Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn will today represent His Majesty the King in presenting the prestigious Prince Mahidol Award to five distinguished medical personalities of the world for their contributions to the advancement of medicine and public health.

The awardees, two British and three Americans, were selected from 72 nominations put forward by 31 countries to the 2010 Award selection panels. The Award presentation will take place at the Chakri Throne Hall in the Grand Palace on Wednesday, 26 January 2011. In the field of medicine, the Award goes to Nicholas J White and Kevin Marsh of Britain while in the field of public health, the Award goes to Ananda S Prasad, Kenneth H Brown and Robert E Black, of the United States.

Professor Nicholas J White has dedicated 25 years to research on effective treatment of malaria in Southeast Asia where the disease was rampant and drug resistance had aggravated the situation. Professor White has put artemisinin ingredients in malaria drugs in order to increase the effectiveness of the treatment and prevent drug resistance. The artemisinin-based combination therapies later won WHO recognition and constitute medical knowledge that has impacted on human health development on a grand scale.

Professor Kevin Marsh pioneers the studies of immune epidemiology of malaria which has led to the recognition of several classes of variants of specific malaria antigens that play a key role in the pathogenesis of the disease. His later works provide the basis for the development of vaccines for malaria to cover various strain variations.

The Award recognizes the work of Prof White and Prof Marsh, both Oxford lecturers, in understanding the malaria disease process, the different strain variations and effects of treatment that helps reduce the risk of life and sufferings of millions of malaria patients worldwide.

The other 2010 Prince Mahidol Awardees – Professor Ananda Prasad, Professor Kenneth Brown and Professor Robert Black – were all honored for their pioneering and outstanding work on zinc supplementation. Professor Prasad described first cases of human zinc deficiency syndrome in 1963. The discovery forms the basis that leads to zinc supplementation to improve the health condition of population around the world.

Professor Kenneth H. Brown had conducted studies showing that additional zinc supplementation helped decrease the incidence and severity of diarrhea and pneumonia especially in children living in developing countries. Professor Brown is instrumental in the International Zinc Nutrition Consultative Group that advocates zinc supplementation, which is now widely accepted as an important public health measure to prevent zinc deficiency as a major contributor for childhood morbidity and mortality.

The fifth laureate, Professor Robert E. Black, discovered that daily zinc supplementation during diarrheal episodes significantly reduced the severity of diarrhea. The World Health Organization and UNICEF currently recommend that all childhood diarrhea cases should be treated with zinc supplement as well as oral rehydration. The program has been implemented in more than 40 countries around the world.

Each winner of the Prince Mahidol Award 2010 receives 50,000 USD (1.5 million THB), a medal and a certificate. The Prince Mahidol Award Foundation was established in Thailand on 1st January, 1992 in commemoration of the centenary of the birth of Prince Mahidol of Songkla -- the Prince Father. The Foundation annually confers Prince Mahidol Awards upon individual(s) or institution(s), which have demonstrated outstanding and exemplary contributions to the advancement of the world's medical and public health services. During the past 18 years, 54 individuals had been conferred with the Award, two of whom later won the Nobel Prize.

-- NNT 2011-01-26

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Bangchak to halt sales of biodiesel B5 in Feb

BANGKOK (NNT) – Bangchak Petroleum Plc will temporarily stop distributing biodiesel B5 next month and offer only B3 in order to help lower the consumption of palm oil, which is facing a shortage.

Bangchak President Anusorn Saengnimnuan announced that the company would start selling only one grade of biodiesel, which is B3, from the end of February onwards. Amidst the palm oil shortage, which has led to soaring prices of commodities, he reasoned that the measure would help ease burdens on consumers and oil palm farmers and is expected to reduce the country’s usage of palm oil by up to 1.2 million liters per month.

Speaking of the government’s policy to have only biodiesel B5 in the market in an effort to promote renewable energy, Mr Anusorn said Bangchak would be ready to comply as its measure to sell biodiesel B3 is only for the time being. Such policy of the government is tentatively set to come into effect in April or the second quarter of 2011.

The Bangchak President believed that oil palm supplies in the market would rebound to the normal level by April, facilitating higher production of biodiesel. At present, Bangchak distributes more than 60 million liters of biodiesel B5 per month while the price of raw palm oil stands at 60 THB per liter, considerably high.

-- NNT 2011-01-26

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Yellow-Shirts to Rally Until Demands Are Met

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Bangkok Celebrates Chinese Lunar New Year

A cultural center in Bangkok's Chinatown has held a seminar on a Chinese writing system called the <deleted> letter, to mark the upcoming Chinese Lunar New Year.

Krung Thai Art Gallery, a Chinese cultural center in Bangkok's Chinatown, hosted a seminar on the <deleted> letter, a traditional writing displayed in front of a house to mark the Chinese Lunar New Year, and offered a <deleted> writing class to mark the forthcoming New Year in early February.

An ancient belief is that gigantic banners with the <deleted> letters displayed outside the home at Chinese New Year can bring dwellers a happy New Year, as well as good luck and wealth.

Those at the event wrote <deleted> on a large piece of cloth, said to be the biggest <deleted> banner in Thailand, led by <deleted> expert Nithiwut Sribunchaichusakun.

Nithiwut said that <deleted> is the easiest and most convenient way of wishing someone a happy New Year.

He added that the fabric will be showcased at the Krung Thai Art Gallery to welcome Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, who is set to preside over the Chinese Lunar New Year celebration there next week.

At the event, there will be an exhibition, a gate in honor of His Majesty the King, and performances by both Thai and Chinese people.

-- Tan Network 2011-01-26

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Pattaya Beach Floating Market bus service launched

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PAD leader Chamlong: protest will be prolonged; no plan now, but may target Government House, impeach PM, DPM Suthep for letting Thailand lose territory /MCOT

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Taxpayers Encouraged to File Returns Online

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PAD to disperse on conditions

BANGKOK, 26 January 2011 (NNT) – The People’s Alliance for Democracy (PAD) will hold its ground at Makkhawan Bridge and will not mobilize its supporters to anywhere for the next few days.

PAD core leader Major General Chamlong Srimuang stated that the group would keep its demonstration until its demands were met. He said the PAD would be ready to follow any alternatives given by the government that ensure Thailand would not lose any inch of its land.

According to the three proposals of the PAD, Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva is encouraged to withdraw Thailand from the world heritage committee, cancel the 2000 Memorandum of Understanding inked with Cambodia and drive away Cambodian troops from Thai soil.

The PAD core leader confirmed that his supporters would remain at Makkhawan Bridge for the time being. He said the demonstration would be terminated once the demands were heeded.

Major General Chamlong asked for public understanding if the protest caused inconveniences, saying that the PAD was doing for the nation.

The PAD core leader brushed off concerns after the discovery of grenades around Makkhawan Bridge and Misakawan Intersection prior to the PAD rally, uttering that it would not dishearten PAD supporters. He said successful defusion of the bombs reflected efficient operations of the police.

-- NNT 2011-01-26

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FC Phuket put up brave fight against Muang Thong United

FC Phuket’s new Korean playmaker Choi Wan Goen under pressure

against Muang Thong United at Surakul Stadium. Photo: Nicholas Altstadt

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Defence volunteer in Narathiwat shot by suspected insurgent

NARATHIWAT, Jan 26 -- A Thai local government defence volunteer was seriously wounded in a shooting attack in the southernmost province of Narathiwat's Rangae district while riding a motorcycle to work.

The victim, identified as Mudtorpa Jeteh, 31, a defence volunteer at the Rangae district office, was shot three times in the stomach by unidentified gunmen and was sent to Rangae Hospital before transferred to Naradhiwasrajanagarindra Hospital for further treatment.

Police said the volunteer was riding his motorcycle to work on the Sego-Tanyongmat Road when two men on a motorcycle followed him and shot him in the stomach before leaving the scene.

The authorities said they believed that it was daily violence caused by the insurgent in the southern provinces.

Meanwhile, a joint operation of 100 police, military and adminstrative staff raided a house in Narathiwat's Rangae district three kilometres from the military camp attacked last week and detained two suspects.

The duo, identified as Safwan Salae, 26, the owner, and his friend Karim Bueraheng, 25, who lives in Rueso district ran in an attempt to escape when the house was raided.

After the arrest, the security force found them carrying a homemade bomb in a metal box, weighing five kilos which was ready to use.

The suspects said they planned to place the explosive under the road surface to trap the troop of the operational base of Infantry Company 15121 of Narathiwat Task Force 38 at Ban Maruebotok in Rangae district.

The soldiers were scheduled to be on duty to patrol the road and giving protection to teachers in the district.

The unit was attacked by insurgents last week which left four soldiers dead, including company commander Capt Krit Kampirayan.

In nearby province of Yala, Yala police chief Pol Maj Gen Chote Chawanwiwat said the police investigation of the bomb attack at a pick- up truck that killed nine people said the prime suspect was Saudee Satapor, 30, who was already the subject of an arrest warrant in three security-related cases.

Nine people were killed and two seriously wounded in the bombing ambush of a pickup truck in Yala’s Yaha district Tuesday as they returned from gathering forest products on a mountain in Baro subdistrict.

The explosion took place at about 5.30pm on Yaha-Kabang Road near Padaeru village in Katong sub-district when a pickup truck with 11 people on board ran over a landmine that was detonated remotely by mobile phone.

Gen Chote said that in 2009 villagers hunting in the forest had clashes with insurgents and killed three of their members so it was believed that the insurgent planned the attack as revenge. (MCOT online news)

-- TNA 2011-01-26

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PAD to sue PM Abhisit for causing territorial loss to Cambodia

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Cambodia replaces controversial stone tablet near Preah Vihear temple

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PM Abhisit hints possible House dissolution in April /MCOT

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Prawit ensures security for PAD, rules out talks with Chamlong

BANGKOK, 26 January 2011 (NNT) – Defense Minister Prawit Wongsuwan has confirmed tight security for the People’s Alliance for Democracy (PAD) during its rally while saying secret talks with core leaders are unlikely.

Talking to the press before presiding over the meeting of the Defense Council, General Prawit commented on the PAD demonstration which was kicked off at Makkhawan Rangsan Bridge on 25 January, assuring that the police are already providing maximum safety for the protesters as it is their responsibility. The security procedure has been clearly laid down, and all operations are in compliance with the law.

Asked for his opinion towards the group’s demands for Thailand’s exit from the World Heritage Committee, revocation of the 2000 MOU on the Thai-Cambodian border demarcation and banishment of Cambodian soldiers from the disputed border area, the Minister reiterated that the consideration is up to the government. He said Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva had already made his point clear that the government was doing all it could and that it had the Thai citizens’ best interest at heart.

Should the protest drag on or expand in size, Gen Prawit pointed out that the situation would be left in the hand of the police to evaluate before suitable actions are taken. Personally, he was concerned about the rally and wanted it to be over, deeming negotiations as the best way out.

However, upon speculation that secret talks might take place with PAD core leader Chamlong Srimuang, the Defense Minister ruled out the idea. He explained that the national benefit is the top priority for all sides, including the government and the protesters; therefore, they should be able to put themselves in others’ shoes and settle their disagreements in an open manner.

-- NNT 2011-01-26

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Thais to Visit Moscow Warned

The Foreign Affairs Ministry has released a statement to warn Thais to be cautious about trips to Moscow after the bombing that killed at least 35 at its international airport.

The Foreign Affairs Ministry has warned Thai citizens who plan to visit Moscow to be very careful following the terrorist attack at Domodedovo airport that left 35 people dead and scores wounded.

The Russian government believes the bombing was orchestrated by a suicide terrorist.

News reports said the international arrival terminal of the airport has been shut down and all flights have been transferred to a nearby airport.

Authorities have urged other airports and all metro systems to be on high alert.

More information can be found at the Consular Affairs Department, at 02-575-1047-9.

For those already in Moscow, the number of the Thai Embassy in Moscow is +7-926-584-3719.

-- Tan Network 2011-01-26

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Border Traders Stock Up Goods over Fear of Border Trade Suspension

Cambodian traders are reportedly rushing to buy goods from Thailand in order to stock up on supplies, in case the Thai and Cambodian governments resort to imposing a suspension on border trade.

There has been an increase in purchase orders from Cambodia over the past week, as reported by Thai traders at the Thai-Cambodian border in Chanthaburi province.

It is estimated that money circulation is more than 40 million baht, compared to a daily average of 20 million baht on regular days.

Cambodian traders are stocking up on goods, fearing that the Thai and Cambodian governments may resolve to closing the borders and halt all border trade.

Cambodians who reside opposite to Chanburi province are increasingly concerned about relations between the two nations, though there has been no signs to suggest the Thai and Cambodian government will impose measures against one another.

-- Tan Network 2011-01-26

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House dissolution in April possible: PM

Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva on Wednesday hinted at early elections by alluding to April as his tentative timing to dissolve the House following the passage of charter amendments.

"If Parliament passes the third reading of the draft amendments on February 11, then the government can proceed for a snap election," he said.

Abhist said the poll date will hinge on consultation with the Election Commission.

He said he did not anticipate any complications which could derail the poll from the protest by the People's Alliance for Democracy.

-- The Nation 2011-01-26

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Japanese Singer to Perform in Bangkok

The lead vocalist of the Japanese rock band “Luna Sea” is set to perform live for the first time in Bangkok this April.

Ryuichi Kawamura, lead singer of the Japanese rock band “Luna Sea”, has announced his first solo tour concert in Thailand.

The show is scheduled for April 30 at Royal Paragon Hall in Bangkok.

The show is said to feature ballad and orchestra, as well as songs composed by His Majesty the King, and a guest appearance by rock singer Pod from the thai band Modern Dog.

The organizer added that parts of the profit will go to a charity.

After the band dispersed in 2000, Ryuichi Kawamura decided to continue to walk the musical path and has continued to work.

His classics included I for U, Love Is, Sugar Lady, and Brilliant Star, among many others.

Ryuichi's debut album "Love" topped the Japanese Oricon chart, with sales of around 1,021,000 copies, making him the only male solo artist in Oricon chart history ever to have an album sell more than one million copies in its first week.

-- Tan Network 2011-01-26

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Police chief threatens PAD with invoking of state of emergency if group storms Govt House /TAN_Network

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AFP: Qantas Boeing 747 suffering mid-air mechanical trouble was forced to land in Bangkok

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15 Thais died of rabies last year. Health Ministry has now vowed to make Thailand completely free of this disease by 2020. /via@Urisara_NT

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SET index closed at 978.07, up 18.90; Bt/USD30.75; GBP48.52; AUD30.53; EUR41.99; CAD30.77; HKD3.94; SGD23.88; JPY37.25

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8 year old girl drowns in east Pattaya lake

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Pattaya Chinese New Year Festival plans announced

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PM Abhisit: Possible House dissolution in April

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Police Lieutenant shoots armed suspect dead in East Pattaya

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