---

---

Graduation ceremony at Hua Hin school/Thais Discontent with government/Crackdown on foreigners/Inside a Myanmar scam center/Took jobs in scam centers for high pay/Villager Killed by Wild Elephant/Lisa dazzles at Oscars/’Anora’ crowned best picture/Peace in deep south/Foreigners behaving badly/ECONOMY: Thailand’s slow GDP growth/Invest in technology/Casinos for Wealthy/Gulf canal project push/Thai shippers concerned/Top 10 foreign condo buyers/Rise of ‘She Economy’/Great energy debate/TOURISM: 50% subsidy scheme/Tourism faces watershed moment/Pattaya’s Mass Tourism/Threat to tourism in Pattaya/Russian tourists flock to Pattaya/Koh Samui residents question bridge/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Tropical Climate Supports Biodiversity/Discovering Ban Pang Ton Phueng/17 Best Places to Visit/Specialty Thai tea booming/CLIMATE THAILAND: Households tapping solar power/China’s EV makers facing reality check/Fears over biomass power plants/Fund for Thai Rice Farming/LINKS: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

This morning we had the opportunity to attend the graduation ceremony at Khao Phithok Municipal School

Thais Express Discontent with government and PM in New Poll

A recent survey by the National Institute of Development Administration (NIDA) reveals widespread dissatisfaction among Thais regarding the government’s and Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s performance. Conducted late last month, the poll sampled 1,310 people nationwide.

The results indicate that 34.6% of respondents are fairly dissatisfied with the government’s work, while an additional 20% are not at all satisfied. In contrast, 32.6% express some level of satisfaction, with 12.8% reporting high satisfaction. Continued …

Crackdown on foreigners pushed

Fears about Thailand becoming a failed state have grown recently because of its failure to enforce laws, allowing cross-border crimes to erode public confidence in the country’s safety and security.

These incidents have already affected Thailand’s tourism sector, as the Chinese market ebbed the first two months this year, as did Taiwan and Hong Kong, whose residents fell victim to scammers. Continued …

‘People are sold every day’: first-hand account of life inside a Myanmar scam center

Chinese gig worker Xu Bochun says he was lured to Myanmar in 2023 by a job offer that turned out to be fake. He ended up being sold to a scam center in Laukkai, the capital of the Kokang Self-Administered Zone bordering China.

In a wide-ranging interview, Xu gives a detailed account of his experience as a victim of human trafficking. He details how he was forced to work for three months in an online scam center before he escaped. Video …

Most Thais deported from Cambodia took jobs in scam centers for high pay

Most of the 119 Thais deported from Cambodia recently are believed to have gone there illegally, to work for scam centers in the Poipet border town. Seven of them are wanted by Thai police, according to the Cybercrime Investigation Bureau (CIB).

All the repatriated Thais had their cell phones seized upon their return to Aranyaprathet district in Sa Kaeo province, which is just across the border from Poipet, suggesting that they were not trafficked to work in the scam centers, but were lured by the attractive remuneration. Continued …

Villager Killed by Wild Elephant While Foraging in Forest

A local villager searching for forest produce in a military area of Chanthaburi province was killed by a wild elephant, authorities confirmed on Saturday.

The incident took place in Phaya Kampuch village, Pong Nam Ron district. Emergency responders from the Sawang Katanyu Rescue Foundation’s Pong Nam Ron unit were alerted to the fatal encounter deep within a forested area controled by the military. Continued …

Lisa Blackpink dazzles at 2025 Oscars in tuxedo-inspired look

Lisa of Blackpink made a stunning debut at the 2025 Oscars, opting for a bold tuxedo-inspired look instead of a traditional gown. Attending the 97th Academy Awards at the Dolby Theater in Los Angeles, the singer and rapper turned heads in a sleek black tuxedo dress layered over a long white shirtdress, designed by Markgong.

Lisa’s Oscar performance video

The moment everyone had been waiting for arrived when Lisa performed a special tribute to the iconic James Bond franchise. As anticipated, she dazzled global fans by descending on a zipline to perform “Live and Let Die” live on the Oscars stage. Continued …

‘Anora’ crowned best picture at the Academy Awards

“Anora,” the story of a sex worker who gets a chance at a new life when she marries a wealthy client on a whim, won the coveted best picture prize at the Academy Awards on Sunday. The movie’s 25-year-old star, Mikey Madison, was named best actress. The film also won best director for Sean Baker.

Adrien Brody claimed his second Academy Award, winning the best actor trophy for his role as a Jewish immigrant and architect who chases the American dream in “The Brutalist.” Continued …

Push for peace in deep south

Peace advocates are urging the Paetongtarn Shinawatra-led administration to quickly form a peace negotiation committee to kickstart a new round of peace talks with the Islamist separatist group Barisan Revolusi Nasional Melayu Patani (BRN).

“It’s time now that the government must set up a new panel to oversee peace negotiations in the deep south,” said Anchana Heemmina, a human rights defender and the founder of the Duay Jai Group, which provides rehabilitation services for torture victims in the deep south. Continued … 

Phuket Increases Scrutiny on Foreigners Amid Crime Wave

In response to a rise in drug-related crimes and illegal work activities, Phuket has intensified its immigration controls and enforcement measures. Working closely with international consulates, the province is focusing on tighter screening processes and visa regulations to manage the growing number of foreign visitors and residents.

Last year, Phuket saw 194 foreigners lose their visas, with 998 facing deportation due to various offenses, primarily drug-related and illegal employment, according to the head of Phuket’s immigration police. Continued …

• US and Canada Targeted in Chiang Rai Crypto Scam Bust – Continued …
• Nigerian Cocaine Dealer Arrested in Koh Phangan Sting – Continued …

PM highlights causes of Thailand’s slow GDP growth

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has outlined what she thinks is causing Thailand’s slow economic growth and promised her administration will complete its full term to speed up economic expansion.

In her weekly “Empowering Thais” program on Sunday morning, the prime minister said the country’s gross domestic product grew by only 2.5% last year because the country had not invested substantially in new industries and had not prepared Thais for future industries over the past decade. Continued …

Invest in technology or fall behind, warn experts

Experts say Thailand needs better policies and more investment in science and innovation to keep pace with technology-intensive globalization driven by the United States and China.

A seminar titled “Trump 2.0: Crisis or Opportunity for Thailand’s Science, Research and Innovation sectors?” was held recently to discuss how Donald Trump’s administration may affect Thailand’s advancement in these highly specialized industries and discuss how the kingdom can prepare. Continued …

Casinos for Wealthy: New Thai Bill Sparks Controversy

Thailand’s proposed legislation is poised to transform the casino landscape, potentially restricting entry exclusively to the nation’s wealthiest citizens. A government insider has revealed that only Thai nationals with a minimum of 50 million baht in a fixed deposit for at least six months may gain access to the country’s forthcoming casino-entertainment complex.

This stipulation is embedded within Section 65 of the Entertainment Complex Bill, which the Council of State (CoS) has scrutinized, with cabinet review anticipated on March 11. Additionally, prospective patrons must pre-register and pay an entrance fee to gain admission, further constraining access. Continued …

Gulf canal project push gains new momentum

The Thai Canal Association for Study and Development wants a national committee to study the feasibility of connecting the Gulf of Thailand with the Andaman Sea via the proposed 9A canal route. The project, if approved, could create up to a million new jobs, its advocates say.

Led by its president, Gen. Pongthep Thetprateep, the association submitted a petition to Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra during the government’s mobile meeting at the Thale Noi Non-Hunting Area in Khuan Khanun district, Phatthalung, on Feb. 17. Continued …

Thai shippers concerned government too slow to negotiate on US tariffs

The Thai National Shippers’ Council (TNSC) today expressed concerns that the government is too slow in formulating measures to address potential trade penalties from U.S. President Donald Trump. TNSC Chairman Chaichan Charoensuk said he has yet to see any progress from the Thai government in responding to the so-called Trump 2.0 policies.

Trump has vowed to penalize countries with excessively high trade surpluses with the U.S. by imposing punitive tariff rates on their exports. Continued …

Top 10 foreign condo buyers: Myanmar, Taiwan surge, China, Russia slow

A 2024 survey by the Real Estate Information Center (REIC) revealed a slight slowdown in foreign condo purchases compared to the previous two years, which had seen a surge in ownership transfers.

In 2024, the number of condo transfers reached 14,573 units, marking a modest 0.9% increase, while the total transaction value dropped by 6.8% to 68.18 billion baht. The average price per unit purchased by foreigners fell to 4.7 million baht from 5.1 million baht in the previous year. Continued …

Lazada highlights rise of ‘She Economy’

Lazada Thailand sees the rise of a “She Economy” from increasing spending among female shoppers and more women entrepreneurs shaping the next wave of e-commerce.

According to a recent Statista report, e-commerce revenue is projected to reach US$22.9 billion this year. The Economic Intelligence Center of Siam Commercial Bank forecasts e-commerce comprising a quarter of all retail sales in 2025. Continued …

The great energy debate

While energy authorities are working on plans to reduce power bills, analysts say free competition in the power trade should be promoted to keep electricity prices low over the long term.

These efforts should be carried out in tandem with accurate projections of future power demand in Thailand, according to Energy Reform for Sustainability (ERS), a group of energy technocrats and experts campaigning for better energy management, including serious government consideration of its proposals. Continued …

50% subsidy scheme to spur Thai domestic tourism planned for May

Thailand’s Tourism and Sports Ministry is planning to introduce a co-payment package for tourism in May to promote domestic travel in the low season. Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong said on Saturday the tourism promotion package – for Thai nationals only – could be kicked off in May after receiving the green light from the cabinet.

Under the scheme, a traveler pays only half of their travel costs and the government takes the financial responsibility for the rest. It is designed for domestic travel only, with some conditions applied. Continued …

Thailand’s tourism sector faces watershed moment

Thailand’s vibrant tourism industry is facing a critical juncture as it grapples with impending European Union (EU) environmental regulations. With a 2026 deadline looming, businesses across the sector are being urged to adopt sustainable practices rapidly or risk being marginalized on the global stage.

The pressure stems from the EU’s Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD), which mandates that all businesses operating within the bloc ensure their supply chains adhere to stringent environmental and human-rights standards. Continued …

Pattaya’s Mass Tourism – Booming business vs. overcrowded chaos

Continued …

Bus Accidents in Thailand – A threat to tourism in Pattaya

Continued … 

Tourism vs. Politics – Russian tourists flock to Pattaya amid global tensions

Continued …

Koh Samui residents question need for bridge to island

It is already one of Thailand’s tourist island jewels, but Koh Samui has received the ultimate tourist bounce as the luxury location for the third series of HBO’s satire-laden murder mystery, The White Lotus – topped off with a role for Thai-born K-pop superstar Lalisa “Lisa” Manobal.

But behind the headline promise of ever-more tourists lies a more textured picture on the small, white-sand fringed Gulf of Thailand island, which some locals say is already struggling to cope with the tourist volume at peak season. Continued …

How Thailand’s Tropical Climate Supports Its Biodiversity

Thailand boasts a tropical climate that significantly influences its rich biodiversity. This climatic region is characterized by warm temperatures and substantial rainfall factors that foster a wide variety of ecosystems and species. The interplay between climate and biodiversity in Thailand serves as a fascinating example of nature’s adaptability and resilience.

A tropical climate such as that found in Thailand is marked by consistent high temperatures, usually exceeding 18°C (64°F) year-round and significant rainfall. This climate is divided into three main seasons – hot, rainy, and cool. These conditions provide a fertile ground for an explosion of life forms adapting to the humid and warm environment. Continued …

Discovering Ban Pang Ton Phueng: a journey through time and nature

For those seeking an authentic Thai experience, the newly introduced rail route to Ban Pang Ton Phueng is a must-try. Departing from the province’s Sila At Station, local train No 407 takes passengers on a scenic 30-minute journey to Pang Ton Phueng Station. Individual tickets are priced at 12 baht, but groups can enjoy a special rate of just 5 baht per person.

Upon arrival, visitors are greeted by the historic Pang Ton Phueng Station, a charming wooden structure that has retained its original architecture since the reign of King Rama V (1868-1910). The station’s rustic allure sets the tone for the adventures ahead. Continued …

The 17 Best Places to Visit in Thailand

To describe Thailand as postcard perfect is underselling it. The country’s untamed beauty is as soaring as its limestone karsts, wild as its lush evergreen rainforests, and calming as its pristine beaches.

The shape of the country resembles an elephant head, which is fitting due to its beloved native population of Indian elephants. And with roughly 93% of the population identifying as Buddhist, the culture here is wonderfully rich. And the food! Many of the dishes here are spicy and common flavorful ingredients include lemongrass, coconut milk, basil, and — of course — chili peppers. Continued …

Popularity of specialty Thai tea booming

It’s not just coffee that dominates the Thai beverage scene; recent data from the food-delivery app Line Man reveal that Thai tea is surging in popularity. In 2024, deliveries of specialty Thai tea reached 400,000 cups.

The number of beverage shops selling specialty Thai tea has surged by more than 205% in the past three years, reflecting a shift in Thai consumer behavior toward high-quality Thai tea. In 2024, total delivery orders reached 400,000 cups, marking an 81% increase from the previous year. Continued …

Households tapping solar power

Thailand is transitioning toward a green economy, and individuals can play an active role in this shift. Installing rooftop solar panels is an effective way to support the country’s green initiatives while reducing the cost of household electricity bills.

By harnessing the power of the sun to generate electricity, homeowners can reduce their reliance on fossil fuels, lower greenhouse gas emissions and promote environmental sustainability. Continued …

China’s EV makers are facing a reality check in Southeast Asia

On a recent Thursday morning in Hanoi, Chinese electric vehicle giant BYD began the day with a showroom devoid of customers. Just a few kilometers away, a dealership for upstart Vietnamese EV maker VinFast Auto was buzzing, with would-be buyers pouring over new models.

“We see an average of 20 customers every day during weekdays,” said Tran Trung Hieu, a VinFast salesman in black suit and tie. “That can double or triple on a weekend.” Continued …

Rights body airs fears over biomass power plant impacts

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has suggested measures to address concerns over the environmental and health impacts of biomass power plants in the deep south.

Suchart Setthamalinee, an NHRC commissioner, told a recent media briefing that human rights networks in the south have concerns about the potential negative impacts of the plants – worries shared by many residents. Continued …

Green Climate Fund invests 4 Billion Baht to Transform Thai Rice Farming

Together with Thai partner networks, the BMZ Green Climate Fund is driving forward the reform of rice cultivation. A total of 118 million euros (approximately $127 million USD or 4.181 billion baht) is being invested as part of the “Thai Rice: Strengthening Climate-Smart Rice Farming Project.”

The aim is to improve the skills of 253,400 Thai farmers in 21 provinces and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 2.44 million tons of carbon by 2028. Continued …

New bus service between Hua Hin, Don Mueang Airport in Bangkok

The new first-class bus service between Don Mueang Airport and Hua Hin will offer two round trips daily. The fare would be 200 baht each way and would take three-and-a-half hours. The Hua Hin departure will be from the current Transport Co. terminal just north of Hua Hin Airport.

• The bus will leave Hua Hin at 7 am and 2 pm
• It will depart from Don Mueang at 7:30 am and 4 pm

Bus Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule from Oct 27

Thai Airasia has updated its flight schedule between Hua Hin and Chiang Mai (Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Friday):

Hua Hin to Chiang Mai: Departure 5:15pm, Arrival at 6:30pm

Chiang Mai to Hua Hin: Departure 3:25pm, arrival at 4:45pm

Hua Hin train schedule

To book online

Van/minibus service at Market Village

Vans and minibuses provide services to the following destinations:

• Hua Hin – Mo Chit (089-919-8055) starts service at 03:50
• Hua Hin – Kanchanaburi (085-822-6063)
• Hua Hin – New southern line service starts at 5:40
• Hua Hin – Rangsit (090-138-0427) service starts at 05:40
• Hua Hin – Nakhon Pathom (088-709-2364)

The last service departs at 6pm. Departures every 25 – 40 minutes. For inquiries or reservations, call 089-9198055,090-1380427.

 

Emergency hotline numbers:

• Emergency hotline – 191
• Emergency medical services – 1554
• Water accident – 1196
• Motorway hotline – 1586
• Emergency medical – 1669
• Highway police – 1193
• Tourist police – 1155
• Bus ticket – 1490
• Department of Highways – 1586
• State Railway – 1590