Obituary: Virabongsa: a trusted pilot of Thailand's economy

13 Sept 03:00 Key points summarised by AI

Virabongsa Ramangkura, a highly respected Thai economist, passed away at 78, leaving a legacy of significant contributions to the nation's economic policy.
He held various influential roles, including economic adviser and minister under seven prime ministers, playing a pivotal part in Thailand's tax reforms (like introducing VAT) and economic liberalization.
Virabongsa was crucial in opening the economy to foreign investment and abolishing export controls, contributing to Thailand's economic boom in the late 1980s.
His unheeded advice, such as depreciating the baht before the 1997 crisis and opposing the 2011 rice subsidy, highlighted his foresight and the cost of political incompetence.
A democrat at heart, he consistently opposed military intervention in politics, viewing it as a barrier to Thailand's full democratic and economic development.

Six injured after car smashes into On Nut shopping mall

Yesterday 22:44 Key points summarised by AI

A 67-year-old woman drove her car through the glass frontage of a Bangkok shopping mall, injuring six people, including a six-year-old girl.
The driver claimed she accidentally pressed the accelerator instead of the brake after being startled, causing the vehicle to surge forward.
She apologized to the victims, promising insurance coverage and additional financial aid, while police continue to gather statements before filing charges.