Medical cannabis researcher defends need to help patients

15 Sept 00:39 Key points summarised by AI

Prominent medical cannabis researcher Decha Siripat insists his distribution of cannabis oil to patients is a moral obligation and a basic patient right, despite facing charges.
Siripat is set to report to authorities over charges of illegal possession of marijuana plants and extracts, stemming from a raid by the Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB) on his Khao Kwan foundation.
He disclosed that his foundation's application for amnesty regarding cannabis possession was rejected and pre-empted by the raid, further advocating for traditional medical doctors to develop cannabis medicines.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) clarified that the amnesty law covers cannabis possession but not distribution, while denying allegations of favoring pharmaceutical companies in medical marijuana research.

The Buddha Comes Home

Yesterday 15:38 Key points summarised by AI

Chong Para is a vibrant annual festival of the Shan (Tai Yai) people in Mae Hong Son, Thailand, celebrating the Buddha's return from Tavatimsa heaven after Buddhist Lent.
The festival's centerpiece involves families constructing intricate miniature palaces, also called Chong Para, from bamboo, paper, and lights, placed outside homes and temples as offerings.
For three days and nights, the quiet mountain town comes alive with folk music, traditional dances like the Shan bird dance, religious ceremonies, and community gatherings, showcasing deep-rooted Shan culture.
Beyond the celebrations, Chong Para reinforces family bonds, preserves traditional crafts, and offers visitors an authentic immersion into the unique cultural heritage of Mae Hong Son.