Thai king creates boot camp-style 'unity' courses


  • World
  • Friday, 01 Nov 2019

Thai royal volunteers prepare to do painting and gardening work at the Temple of Dawn in Thonburi, Bangkok, Thailand October 14, 2019. REUTERS/Panu Wongcha-um

BANGKOK (Reuters) - Thousands of civil servants, police and teachers are being sent to a military camp in Thailand for intensive training in community service and loyalty to the monarchy, according to the Royal Palace and interviews with trainees and organisers.

The programme, established last year, highlights the way in which King Maha Vajiralongkorn, 67, is asserting his will on Thai government and society to a greater extent than any sovereign since the end of absolute monarchy in 1932, some experts say.

The Star Festive Promo: Get 35% OFF Digital Access

Monthly Plan

RM 13.90/month

Best Value

Annual Plan

RM 12.33/month

RM 8.02/month

Billed as RM 96.20 for the 1st year, RM 148 thereafter.

Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel for breaking news alerts and key updates!

Next In World

Pressure grows on British Prime Minister Starmer over Mandelson fallout
Magniitude 5.5 earthquake strikes Cuba, EMSC says
Ukraine urges acceleration of peace talks, says only Trump can broker deal
Japan's Takaichi set for major lower house victory
Portugal votes in presidential runoff with Socialist poised for victory
Distrust, desertions, and dwindling bonuses undermine Socialist Party’s grip on Venezuela
Gunmen kill three people and abduct Catholic priest in northern Nigeria
Four Indian students injured in knife attack in Russia, embassy says
Meloni condemns 'enemies of Italy' after clashes in Olympics host city Milan
New Zealand to hear Christchurch mosque shooter's appeal against sentence

Others Also Read