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Wednesday’s news-Sept 16

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  • Crystal meth seized in Khiri Khan/Ex-refinery diesel price cut by 4 Baht/Kui Buri elephants huddle under trees/Thailand birth rate tumbles/’Hands off Koh Kut’/Villagers carry elderly woman 9 kilometers
  • THE IRAN WAR: Saudi oil export disruption
  • ECONOMY: US$17 billion in Gastech deals/Thailand signs global minimum tax agreement/Bangkok’s Data Center Boom/Cargill commits 2 billion baht/MICE sector valued at 200 billion baht
  • TOURISM: Pattaya battles sex tourism image/TAT’s Amazing Thailand Ambassador Campaign/More emphasis on visitor value/Thailand’s visa crackdown/DTV rules vary between Thai embassies
  • CLIMATE THAILAND: 42.5-MWp Thai floating solar park/Why is Bangkok replacing diesel trucks?/Balanced path for Asia’s energy transition
  • THAIS BEHAVING BADLY/FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS 

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Police seize 464 kilograms of crystal meth in Khiri Khan

Highway police arrested a 23-year-old man and seized approximately 464 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine after the van he was driving crashed into a resident’s fence during a pursuit in Prachuap Khiri Khan last week.

The suspect, identified only as Minthada, was detained near the Don Sai traffic-light junction on Suk Chit Road in Ko Lak subdistrict, Mueang Prachuap Khiri Khan district. Continued … 

Government cuts ex-refinery diesel price by 4 Baht

The Energy Policy Administration Committee (EPAC) has announced a discount on the ex-refinery price of high-speed diesel by 4 baht per liter, effective from today until Oct.31.

Published in the Royal Gazette yesterday, the measure aims to mitigate domestic fuel price volatility being caused by ongoing Middle East tensions involving the United States, Israel and Iran, which continue to disrupt global crude and refined oil supplies. The discount applies across all standard high-speed diesel grades, including B0, B7 and B20. – thaipbsworld.com

Kui Buri elephants huddle under trees as rain pours down

A herd of wild elephants in Kui Buri National Park was spotted taking shelter beneath large trees as rain fell over the forest, creating a heartwarming scene for nature lovers. The photos quickly offered a gentle reminder that even in the middle of a downpour, wildlife has its own ways of finding comfort in the forest. (khaosodenglish.com)

Thailand ‘must act’ as birth rate tumbles

Thailand is being urged to implement a coordinated effort across government, academia, and the private sector to address its declining birth rate crisis. The proposed approach involves covering the entire lifecycle, ranging from the initial stages of having and raising children to preparing them for the workforce.

The strategy emphasizes creating an environment that makes it easier for people to start families and raising children to be healthy and capable. Key focus areas include improving access to quality healthcare, promoting physical and mental health for children, infants, and mothers, and providing care during pregnancy. Additionally, government ministers have suggested that strengthening family support systems and enhancing digital skills and lifelong learning will be essential to helping child development and reducing inequality. – Bangkok Post

‘Hands off Koh Kut’: Thailand stands firm at UN maritime talks

Thailand maintains that the island of Koh Kut is not subject to the current maritime reconciliation process, as the government considers its sovereignty over the island to be a matter of land territory rather than maritime boundary. Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow has stated that the ongoing conciliation proceedings should be strictly limited to the maritime boundary dispute and should exclude land borders, which includes Koh Kut.

The Thai government specifically rejects Cambodia’s 1972 continental shelf claim line, asserting that this unilateral claim lacks a legal basis. Officials have emphasized that any maritime demarcation conducted under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) should clearly demonstrate that the island belongs to Thailand. This dispute is being addressed through a UN-facilitated conciliation commission currently meeting in Singapore. – Bangkok Post

Kanchanaburi villagers carry elderly woman 9 kilometers to bank

Villagers and local volunteers in Kanchanaburi carried an elderly woman 9 kilometers through continuous rain so she could reach a bank after her ATM card stopped working and she needed to verify her identity in person.

The journey took place on Monday, in a remote community in Sangkhla Buri district near the Thai-Myanmar border. The woman, who is in her 90s and bedridden, needed to resolve the banking issue so she could access money deposited by relatives each month for her living and care expenses. Continued … 

Saudi export disruption sends some physical cargoes above US$130 a barrel

European buyers pushed some physical oil cargo prices above US$130 a barrel yesterday, while Brent and US crude futures reached their highest settlements since May 19 as disruptions to Saudi exports intensified.

Shipping industry sources said crude loadings at Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea export hub of Yanbu had been suspended. Trade sources also said Riyadh had informed European customers that some late-September crude cargoes would be cancelled, raising concerns that disruption could last for weeks. Continued … 

Energy minister reports over US$17 billion in Gastech deals

Energy Minister Akanat Promphan said yesterday that Gastech 2026 in Bangkok had generated more than US$17 billion in energy business agreements. Thailand also handed over hosting duties for the 2027 event to Houston in the United States.

Akanat credited cooperation among all those involved in Gastech 2026 in Bangkok with helping the event secure the agreements. The outcome reinforced Asia’s potential as a center for global energy business, he said. Continued … 

Thailand signs up to global minimum tax agreement

Thailand has signed an international tax information exchange agreement as part of the Global Anti-Base Erosion (GloBE) rules to support the collection of top-up taxes.

The agreement is part of Thailand’s participation in the Multilateral Competent Authority Agreement on the Exchange of Information. This move aims to facilitate the exchange of tax information concerning large multinational enterprises (MNEs) and reduce the burden of compliance by minimizing the need for duplicate information in multiple countries. – Bangkok Post

Bangkok’s Data Center Boom Runs Into a Regulatory Reckoning

Stallholders working a market along Rama XI, one of Bangkok’s arterial roads, started noticing a nauseating oil odor drifting from a boxy structure covered in gunmetal grey panels that had gone up across from their stalls with almost no warning.

A nearby hospital sat close enough to raise its own alarms. When authorities finally looked, they found 200,000 liters of oil being stored on site without a permit. The facility, known as BKK01, was tied to a $1 billion investment from the Dubai-based conglomerate DAMAC, part of a plan to turn Thailand into a Southeast Asian hyperscale hub. Continued … 

Cargill commits 2 billion baht to Thailand expansion

Cargill is expanding its food production in Thailand by investing 2 billion baht (US$60 million) to enhance its feed business and processing facilities. This strategic move aims to increase production efficiency and reliability in the production process, while also providing better control over raw materials.

The investment includes upgrading machinery at three processing and slaughtering facilities in Nakhon Ratchasima and upgrading one primary facility in Saraburi. Cargill also plans to build a new silo in Nakhon Ratchasima with an expected capacity of 30,000 tons of feed to help manage costs during harvest seasons and mitigate the impact of fluctuating feed ingredient prices. These upgrades are intended to boost total production capacity to between 150,000 and 160,000 tons per year by late 2028. – Bangkok Post

Revived MICE sector valued at 200 billion baht

Thailand’s MICE sector is expected to be worth 200 billion baht this year as it transitions into recovery mode. This projection comes as the industry steadily moves toward economic recovery, with the sector’s growth playing a vital role in the nation’s broader economic landscape.

The Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) has noted that the sector’s revival is essential for driving national revenue. While some earlier targets for the MICE segment in 2026 were set at 163 billion baht, with 29.4 million participants, the current outlook suggests a stronger valuation of 200 billion baht. To maintain competitiveness, the bureau is focusing on high-value industries and addressing challenges such as the need for more specialized incentives for international organizers and attendees. – Bangkok Post

Pattaya battles sex tourism image as crimes investigated

A media review of Pattaya has highlighted the resort city’s enduring association with sex tourism, despite efforts by local authorities to promote beaches, sport, conventions and family holidays.

The report comes as two Western foreigners face separate murder investigations linked to deaths in the Pattaya area. Pattaya Mayor Poramet “Beer” Ngampichet acknowledged the city’s nightlife reputation but said officials were trying to broaden its appeal. Continued … 

TAT’s Amazing Thailand Ambassador Campaign Generates Over 448 Million Impressions

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) reports that its “Amazing Thailand Ambassador” project has generated more than 448 million impressions across media and digital channels.

The initiative reflects TAT’s efforts to evolve how Thailand is communicated as a destination in response to today’s changing traveler behaviors and digital landscape, using contemporary stories, content, and perspectives to connect audiences with Thailand’s unique charm.

As part of the initiative, Lisa, as the Amazing Thailand Ambassador, helped showcase Thailand’s stories and perspectives to travelers through the “Feel All the feelings” campaign, sparking widespread conversation and inspiring people to experience and discover Thailand for themselves.

Thailand is redefining tourism success by putting more emphasis on visitor value

Thailand is shifting the way it measures tourism success, moving beyond visitor numbers toward a model focused on value, distribution and sustainability.

TAT Deputy Governor for Marketing Communications Nithee Seeprae said the agency is increasingly tracking indicators including per-capita tourism revenue, length of stay, repeat visitation rates, the dispersion of tourists to secondary provinces and the quality of life of local communities. The approach is built around five strategies: life economy, sub-culture economy, night economy, circular economy and platform economy. Continued … 

Thailand’s visa crackdown could cost more in tourist spending than in arrivals

Thailand has shortened the standard visa-free stay for tourists from 60 days to 30, and this change may have a bigger effect on tourism spending than on the number of foreign visitors entering the country.

The new rules took effect yesterday, as Thailand tries to shift its tourism strategy toward higher-value visitors. Most ordinary holidays will remain unaffected. But for travelers who stay for several weeks, the change could mean shorter trips, additional visa applications or a decision to spend their money elsewhere. Continued … 

Thailand DTV rules vary between Thai embassies

Thailand’s revised Destination Thailand Visa rules, effective from Aug. 31, have created uncertainty for applicants applying outside their home country as Thai embassies and consulates publish differing residence requirements.

The Department of Consular Affairs replaced the previous requirement for proof of an applicant’s current location with proof of permanent residence. Applicants must now also submit a criminal record clearance certificate. Continued … 

Amata, B.Grimm to co-develop 42.5-MWp Thai floating solar park

Thai industrial estate developer Amata Corp. and energy producer B.Grimm Power will invest 1.2 billion baht (USD36.1 million/EUR33.9 million) in a 42.5-MWp floating solar project at an industrial site in eastern Thailand’s Chon Buri province.

The proposed photovoltaic (PV) park will be installed at a water reservoir within Amata City Chonburi Industrial Estate, a major industrial estate development managed by Amata, to help meet growing demand for renewable energy and support the industrial sector’s transition to a low-carbon economy. Its output is expected to help mitigate around 29,300 tons of carbon dioxide emissions annually. Continued … 

Why is Bangkok replacing diesel trucks with EVs?

Bangkok is transitioning to electric vehicles to significantly reduce energy costs and mitigate air pollution. The plan to replace diesel rubbish trucks with electric vehicles is estimated to cut energy costs by approximately 4.75 billion baht, or 54%, over a five-year period.

This shift is part of a broader effort to improve environmental performance and air quality by reducing carbon emissions and PM2.5 pollution. For instance, the government is also working to convert various public-service vehicle categories to electric power, a move that could potentially reduce national oil consumption by 212 million liters annually.

Beyond waste management, the Bangkok Mass Transit Authority is preparing to roll out 1,520 electric buses to improve passenger convenience and safety while lowering fuel and maintenance costs by an estimated 4.1 billion baht per year. – Bangkok Post

Energy leaders urge balanced path for Asia’s energy transition

Energy leaders at Gastech 2026 in Bangkok called for a balanced approach to the energy transition, arguing that reducing emissions cannot be pursued separately from energy security, affordability, reliability and economic growth.

Speaking during the panel “On track or off course? Navigating the path towards lower carbon energy systems” yesterday, executives from PETRONAS, PTT, Saipem and Wood, alongside the CNPC Economics & Technology Research Institute, broadly agreed that the transition would require both existing energy systems and new lower-carbon technologies. Continued … 

Over 200 Brits held over Thailand cannabis mule trips

More than 200 British nationals are currently detained overseas in drug-smuggling cases involving cannabis originating from Thailand, Foreign Office figures show. The UK government said consular cases involving Britons arrested abroad for drug smuggling more than quadrupled between 2023 and 2025, rising from just over 80 to more than 340. There have already been more than 160 new cases in 2026. Continued … 

Former Google DeepMind researcher warns of AI extinction risk

A former Google DeepMind researcher warned on Monday that artificial intelligence (AI) could potentially “kill all humans”, saying the world may be running out of time to prevent such an outcome. Continued … 

US acknowledges that it has deployed weapons in space

The United States has confirmed for the first time that it has deployed weapons in space, a remarkable revelation after previous warnings about countries such as Russia possibly weaponizing a global frontier long agreed in treaties to be used for only peaceful purposes. Continued … 

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Saturday’s news-Feb 14

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  • PKK 2025 tourism/Hua Hin Heroes raises 2.1 million/Hua Hin students and sex education/Samui sea bridge set for 2029/To arrest plunging birth rate
  • ECONOMY: Economy tops public wish list/Longstay Visa: To Attract Foreign Investment/Leveling the e-commerce playing field
  • TOURISM: Call for police reform/Chiang Mai airport traffic/Pattaya Beach targets homeless
  • THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Evolution of the ‘ghost’ expat/Spa package in Bangkok/Chiang Mai food tour/Discover Kaeng Ko’s sunken temple
  • FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS 

PKK 2025 tourism: 10.7 million Thai visitors, 760,000 foreigners

Prachuap Khiri Khan public-private committee members were told that the province welcomed more than 11.4 million visitors in 2025, as officials opened their first meeting of 2026 with a detailed review of tourism performance.

According to figures presented at the meeting, Prachuap Khiri Khan recorded 11,474,581 visitors between January and December 2025, an increase of 1.4% compared with the previous year. Of these, 10,712,737 were Thai nationals, while 761,844 were international visitors. Continued …

Hua Hin Heroes Charity Golf Cup 2026 raises 2.1 million baht for local children

The Heroes Hua Hin Foundation, widely known as Hua Hin Heroes, brought together a coalition of community leaders, businesses, and supporters at the Hua Hin Heroes Charity Golf Cup 2026, united by one shared purpose: creating brighter futures for children in Hua Hin and across Prachuap Khiri Khan province.

Built on the belief that education, health, and proper nutrition are the foundations of lifelong opportunity, the foundation supports under-resourced schools and vulnerable families across Thailand through classroom construction, IT learning centers, facility improvements, and community-led well-being initiatives. Continued … 

Hua Hin students subject of sex education training

Hua Hin City Municipality has stepped up its sexual health education efforts ahead of Valentine’s Day, holding a campaign on sexually transmitted infection (STI) prevention for local secondary school students.

On Thursday at the Hua Hin City Municipality Office, Nopporn Wutthikul, mayor of Hua Hin City Municipality, presided over the opening of a project focused on the prevention and control of sexually transmitted infections and AIDS among at-risk groups. The program was organized for teachers and Year 7 students (Mathayom 1), with four sessions involving a total of 400 participants from Tessaban Ban Hua Hin Demonstration School, Tessaban Ban Bo Fai School, and Hua Hin Wittayakhom School. Continued …

74-billion-baht Samui sea bridge set for 2029, 400-billion-baht economic boost

The Expressway Authority of Thailand (EXAT) has unveiled the final study results for the proposed 74-billion-baht Samui Expressway project, a 37.4-kilometer route linking the mainland to Koh Samui via a 22-kilometer sea bridge.

The four-lane expressway will begin at Highway 4142 in Don Sak district, pass through Khanom district in Nakhon Si Thammarat, and connect to Highway 4170 on Koh Samui. Its centerpiece is a cable-stayed bridge spanning 22 kilometers across the Gulf of Thailand, with a clearance of at least 50 meters to allow large vessels to pass in line with international standards. Continued …

Thailand pushes to arrest plunging birth rate

Authorities are launching a new push to address Thailand’s collapsing birth rate, now the lowest in 75 years, with a focus on ensuring that every pregnancy is safe, voluntary, and fully supported.

Thailand is facing a severe demographic crisis driven by a sharp decline in births, said Dr. Amporn Benjapolpitak, director-general of the Department of Health, at a press conference yesterday. The trend, she warned, poses long-term risks to the country’s economic growth, social structure, labor force, welfare system, and public health. Continued …

Economy tops public wish list

Addressing economic problems tops the public’s wish list for a new government led by the Bhumjaithai Party, with measures to reduce the cost of living ranking highest among expectations, according to a KPI poll released yesterday.

Economic issues were identified by 38% of respondents as the top priority for the new administration, ahead of social problems at 32.3% and political issues at 29.7%. The survey, conducted by King Prajadhipok’s Institute, polled 2,000 people aged 18 and over nationwide between Jan. 30 and Feb. 2. Continued …

Longstay Visa: A Move to Attract Foreign Investment and Boost Tourism Cities

Thailand Longstay has partnered with Sansiri to promote the Longstay Visa, offering foreign nationals the opportunity to purchase condos worth 3 million baht or more, and secure long-term residence rights. This collaboration aims to stimulate the economy in key tourist cities across Thailand.

The straightforward conditions for obtaining the visa allow foreign nationals to purchase a condo for 3 million baht or more, granting them the right to apply for the Longstay Visa. This not only sells prime locations in tourist cities like Phuket, Chiang Mai, and Pattaya, but also offers “long-term residency rights.” Continued … 

Leveling the e-commerce playing field

The Trade Competition Commission of Thailand (TCCT) has issued new guidelines for the Trade Competition Act of 2017, expected to be published in the Royal Gazette next month, aiming to curb unfair trade practices and prevent monopolistic behavior in multi-sided platform businesses, with a focus on e-commerce.

The guidelines are slated for reconsideration by the board next week after revisions, and should be published in the Royal Gazette in March. The guidelines were originally scheduled to be introduced in October 2025. Continued …

Call for police reform to boost tourism

Tourism operators are urging the government to reform law enforcement and regulation, as businesses and tourists suffer from worsening bribery issues, hampering the nation’s tourism reputation.

Thailand’s score in the 2025 Corruption Perceptions Index fell one point to 33 out of 100 points, while its global ranking was down nine places to 116th. Chinnawat Udomniyom, president of the Phuket Boutique Accommodation Consortium, said the poor corruption score was a mirror of tourism concerns in Phuket, such as bribery and a lack of law enforcement against criminals. Continued …

Chiang Mai airport traffic reaches post-Covid peak

The number of daily passengers using Chiang Mai Airport as reached a new post-pandemic high, underlining the city’s status as a tourist hub in northern Thailand.

A record 36,554 passengers used the airport on Thursday, said General Manager Karant Thanakuljeerapat. Airports of Thailand has said the average daily number of travelers at the northern hub is around 35,000. Continued …

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Pattaya Beach operation targets homeless and beggars

Pattaya City officials carried out an operation along Pattaya Beach Thursday to regulate homeless people and others staying overnight in the area, while urging the public to stop giving money to beggars.

The operation took place at Pattaya Beach in Bang Lamung district, Chon Buri, led by Deputy Mayor Damrongkiat Pinijkarn, with teams from the Department of Social Development and Welfare, the Social Welfare Office, Pattaya City Administration, and related agencies. Officials patroled the full length of Pattaya Beach to monitor the situation and identify homeless people and others sleeping in the city’s key tourist area. Continued …

The evolution of the ‘ghost’ expat

There is a type of foreigner in Thailand most tourists never notice. They don’t hang out in sports bars, don’t argue online about beer prices, and don’t complain that “Thailand isn’t what it used to be.” You won’t find them on Soi 6 or Walking Street, and if you do pass them somewhere local, you might not even realize they’re foreigners at all.

They aren’t hiding from the law. They aren’t antisocial. And they’re not trying to prove anything. They’re avoiding something else entirely: predictability.

At some point, many long-term foreigners get tired of the same loop. You meet another expat and, without meaning to, both of you fall into the same script. Where are you from? How long have you been here? What do you do? Why Thailand? After repeating this conversation hundreds, then thousands of times, it starts to feel less like socializing and more like maintenance work.

For some people, the solution isn’t isolation. It’s changing the environment completely. They stop going to “foreign-friendly” places. Breakfast isn’t eggs and bacon in a Norwegian café anymore. It’s khao tom in a local shop with plastic chairs. What many foreigners dismiss as “Thai style” becomes normal — not as a performance, but as a way to mentally step out of the bubble and reset.

One of my close friends is a good example. I’ve known him for years through management work in the industry — and no, that doesn’t mean working in bars. He’s lived here long enough to build a real life. Thai wife. Thai daughter. University degree earned locally, by choice. He speaks, reads, and writes Thai fluently. His professional and social circles are almost entirely Thai.

He consciously avoids places where he’ll have to interact with other foreigners. Not out of arrogance. Not because he thinks he’s better. Simply because he’s bored. There’s nothing new to exchange. The references are different, the rhythm is different, and the conversations feel like reruns.

Another acquaintance of mine comes from a very different background. He’s a social person, a nightlife guy. But he left Soi 6 and Walking Street years ago. These days you’ll find him in KTVs, Ran Lao venues, or snooker clubs. When asked why he avoids places with lots of foreigners, his answer is simple: “They’re predictable. I already know every question they’re going to ask. Only the order changes.”

There’s an old idea — often linked to linguistic theory — that the language you think in shapes how you perceive reality. Whether or not that theory is perfectly accurate, something definitely shifts when your daily life runs in a different language. When you work, joke, argue, and think in Thai, your social frequency changes. The foreigner-heavy environment starts to feel loud, repetitive, and oddly flat, like background noise you can’t turn off.

Sometimes I see this most clearly while working in Thai or Asian adult venues far from tourist zones. Occasionally you’ll notice another foreigner there — quiet, composed, almost invisible. They don’t socialize. They don’t explain themselves. At most, there’s a brief glance and a subtle nod when passing someone similar.

That nod says everything. “I see you.”

“I know why you’re here.”

“No need to talk.”

Is this loneliness? Usually not. It’s curated solitude. A conscious narrowing of social input. For these people, choosing Thai style isn’t a pose or an aesthetic. It’s the final step of stopping being a guest and simply existing in the environment they chose.

The real Thailand, for many of them, doesn’t begin with fluency or paperwork. It begins exactly where English signage stops being useful.

So the question isn’t whether this is healthy or unhealthy. The real question is simpler: have you ever caught yourself avoiding a place purely because there were too many foreigners there? And did that realization surprise you — or feel inevitable? From Pattaya Unfiltered 

Spa package in Bangkok: How to pick the right one

Bangkok is famous for many things – incredible street food, stunning temples, and a wellness scene that draws visitors from around the world. With so many spas scattered across the city, finding the right spa package in Bangkok can feel overwhelming.

But don’t worry. A little know-how goes a long way in helping you discover an experience that truly fits your needs. Before scrolling through endless spa menus, take a moment to check in with yourself. Are you dealing with tension headaches from too much screen time? Feeling mentally drained after a busy week? Or maybe you just want to treat yourself to something special? Continued …

Chiang Mai food tour: Must-try eats, street food, hidden cafes

Embark on a vibrant food tour through Chiang Mai. Discover the best places to eat while sampling local northern Thai food, from charming cafes serving iced coffee and Thai iced tea to bustling street stalls offering classics like mango sticky rice, pad Thai, and roti.

Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or simply a food lover, this travel guide showcases Chiang Mai’s diverse food scene, highlighting delicious dishes such as Khao Soi, papaya salad, spring rolls, and coconut ice cream. Find out what makes Chiang Mai a top food destination and get tips for your own food adventure. Video …

Discover Kaeng Ko’s sunken temple and giant rain tree in Lamphun

Embark on a serene boat ride to uncover the hidden Lanna civilization at Kaeng Ko, located in the Mae Ping National Park, Lamphun province. Witness the marvel of the submerged temple and the giant rain tree in the river, a stunning sight visible only for a short time each year.

Amidst the tranquil Kaeng Ko reservoir, within the Mae Ping National Park, this area has become a popular destination for tourists. The ancient Wat Ban Kao, once a spiritual center for local communities and the birthplace of Kruba Chaiyawongsa Pattana, now rests submerged under water since the construction of the Bhumibol Dam in 1955. Continued …

  • Korean Man Caught With 410 Live Animals at Airport – Continued …
  • Pattaya Hotel Worker Stops Foreign Couple Over Public Indecency – Continued …
  • Austrian Cocaine Suspect Held in Sattahip – Continued …
  • Two Chinese Arrested in Pattaya Drug Chemicals Raid – Continued …

US military preparing for potential weeks-long operations against Iran

The US military is preparing for the possibility of extended operations lasting weeks against Iran, if President Donald Trump orders an attack, according to two US officials. This raises the stakes significantly in the ongoing diplomatic efforts between the US and Iran. Continued …

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Saturday’s news-Jan 18

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Bangkok Urges Work from Home/Reducing burned sugarcane problem/Flights fight PM2.5/Heavy rain warning/UK Plans for 170-year Thailand Ties/Biometric SIM registration/Silent danger from Food in refrigerator/Dog refuses to leave/Social media trends in Thailand/Birth rate hits 75-year low/12-million baht lottery winners//Foreigners behaving badly/ECONOMY: Global minimum tax is coming/Income taxes may dip/Top-up tax on multinationals/”Homes for Thais” scheme/Guardrails for casino bill/So much for soft power/TOURISM: Death hits elephant camps/Pet Tourism Spurs Spending Boost/Japan No.1 for Chinese tourists/Thai International Travel Fair/Soft Power: The Hidden Force/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: UNESCO status sought/CLIMATE THAILAND: Video: Phuket’s Waste Management/Third time lucky for nuclear power?/Thailand’s sustainable Wood City/INTERNATIONAL/TikTok’s US future in limbo/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

Bangkok Urges Work from Home Amid Severe Air Pollution Threat

Bangkok residents are being urged to work from home next week, as the city’s air quality is set to deteriorate drastically. The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has made this call to counter rising levels of PM2.5 particles, which are anticipated to worsen due to pollution and adverse weather conditions.

The proposed work-from-home period spans Monday through Wednesday, a preventive measure based on forecasts of severe pollution in at least 35 of the capital’s 50 districts. Continued …

Cane and Sugar Board eyes reducing burned sugarcane problem

Measures to discourage sugarcane farmers from burning crop leftovers – a major contributor to PM2.5 air pollution – have been approved, the Cane and Sugar Board said on Friday.

PM2.5 refers to dust particles measuring 2.5 micrometers or less in diameter, long-term exposure to which is linked with chronic diseases, including lung and heart problems. Major sources of PM2.5 include traffic emissions, factories, forest fires, and burning of harvest leftovers. Continued …

Flights fight PM2.5 pollution

Thailand is taking its fight against air pollution to the skies, deploying special flight operations to tackle the dangerous PM2.5 dust particles. Deputy Transport Minister Manaporn Charoensri announced that the innovative operations have already improved air quality in key regions, including Bangkok, the central region, and the upper north.

Launched by Aeronautical Radio of Thailand (AEROTHAI), the mission began on Dec. 1 last year in Bangkok and surrounding areas, expanding to Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Lampang, Tak, and Mae Hong Son provinces the following day. According to AEROTHAI, these efforts have successfully reduced particulate matter smaller than 3 microns, with operations set to continue until the pollution subsides. Continued …

Heavy rain warning in Thailand as temperatures drop

The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) has issued its eighth weather warning for heavy rain, identifying key provinces that will be most affected. Temperatures will drop by 1 to 2 degrees Celsius (°C) across many regions.

A moderate high-pressure system persists over upper Thailand and the South China Sea, causing cooler temperatures in the northern, northeastern, and central areas of Thailand. These regions will experience cold to very cold weather, particularly in mountainous areas where frost is expected. Meanwhile, the east and upper south regions, including Bangkok and its vicinity, will see cool mornings. Continued …

UK Envoy Announces Major Plans for 170-year Thailand Ties

The United Kingdom’s ambassador to Thailand, Mark Gooding, has unveiled an ambitious program to celebrate 170 years of diplomatic relations between the UK and Thailand. This announcement came at a gathering labeled the “170th Anniversary Launch Party” on Thursday evening, held in the historic Postal Theater of Bangkok’s Grand Postal Building.

The anniversary, marking over a century and a half of diplomatic engagements, promises a rich calendar of events aimed at strengthening the strategic partnership between the two nations. The embassy plans a dynamic roadshow, taking its celebration to different corners of Thailand, fostering mutual understanding and opportunities, particularly focusing on engagements with students and the local community. Continued …

Biometric SIM registration, tighter controls on foreign ownership to curb scams

Tighter controls on the ownership of SIM cards, through the introduction of biometric technology in the registration process and a limit on SIM cards for some non-Thais, are among the measures being enforced to protect phone users from scam gangs more effectively.

Other measures include the requirement for smartphone service providers to have all their SMS systems with URLs attached screened by officials, caller ID display, and any money transfers exceeding 50,000 baht through mobile banking systems will require facial scanning for identification confirmation. Continued …

Fried Rice Syndrome : A Silent danger from food in the refrigerator

The behavior of many people today involves purchasing ready-to-eat meals and storing them in the refrigerator for an extended period, sometimes forgetting about them. This practice can increase health risks and lead to potential dangers if the food is consumed.

One example is “Fried Rice Syndrome,” caused by the bacterium Bacillus cereus, which leads to food poisoning. Although symptoms are generally mild and resolve on their own, some cases can be severe enough to require hospitalization. Continued …

Dog refuses to leave owner’s last-known spot

A heartwarming story of loyalty has emerged from Nakhon Ratchasima province, where a Thai dog nicknamed “Moo Daeng” (meaning ‘Chinese BBQ pork’ in Thai) continues to wait for her deceased homeless owner outside a convenience store in the Ya Mo market area.

The dog’s unwavering dedication has earned her the title “The Hachiko of Korat,” drawing parallels to the famous Japanese dog known for his legendary loyalty. Continued …

Evolving social media trends in Thailand

The online sensation that is “Moo Deng” the pygmy hippo and the hashtag #ไฟไหม้รถบัส (#BusCaughtFire), around vehicle safety standards following an accident that killed over 20 primary school students, show the dynamics in the Thai social media – raises an important question of how social media – as it evolves from a source of connectivity and entertainment into a pivotal tool for activism and civic engagement – can contribute to “digital citizenship” in Thailand.

The Internet and digital technology are integrated into the everyday lives of Thais. In early 2024, the Internet penetration index was 88%, and 68.3% of the population had at least one active social media account. In the same year, Facebook was the most popular social media platform, used by over 90% of internet users, followed by TikTok (83%), Instagram (64.5%) and X (formerly Twitter) (49.6%). Continued …

Thailand’s birth rate hits 75-year low

Mahidol University has highlighted a significant demographic issue, as Thailand recorded fewer than 500,000 births in a year for the first time in 75 years.

In 2024, the country registered 462,240 births, a marked decrease from 519,000 in 2023. Associate Prof. Chalermpol Chamchan from Mahidol’s Institute for Population and Social Research noted that this is the fourth consecutive year where deaths have exceeded births, underscoring a serious demographic challenge. Continued …

Ex-police officer and restaurant owner share 12-million baht lottery

A former police officer sharing a lottery ticket with a restaurant owner led to an unexpected windfall, as the pair won the first prize in the Thai government lottery, securing 12 million baht. The joyous occasion took place at a restaurant by the Mekong River in Nakhon Phanom province, where the lucky ticket was shared.

The winning lottery number 807779 was drawn for yesterday’s draw, and the news quickly spread. Reporters visited the restaurant, Larb Goi Yai Lae, located in Ban That Phanom, Mueang That Phanom district. There, 68-year-old restaurant owner Bunlom proudly displayed her winning ticket worth 6 million baht amid celebrations from family and friends. Continued …

  • Indian Tourists Caught Urinating at Pattaya Beach – Continued …
  • Phuket residents slam French tourists’ alley blockade – Continued …
  • Foreign man robs car at gunpoint with kids onboard – Continued … 

Global minimum tax is coming for multinational companies

The global minimum tax (GMT) represents a significant reform in international taxation under the framework of the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).

Its objective is to align tax systems with global standards by requiring large multinational corporations (MNCs) to pay a minimum tax of 15% (effective tax rate or ETR) in every country where they operate, even in jurisdictions with low tax rates, no tax liability, or special tax incentives. This measure is designed to prevent tax avoidance, address unfair tax competition, and curb profit shifting to low-tax jurisdictions, while promoting a sustainable, transparent, and fair global economy. Continued …

Income taxes may dip on trend, as VAT hikes

Global trends are shifting toward reducing income taxes and increasing consumption and wealth taxes, according to Finance Permanent Secretary Lavaron Sangsnit.

In a recent lecture to National Defense College students, Lavaron said if the value-added tax (VAT) is raised in the future, it would be implemented gradually, along with measures to mitigate the tax impact. Continued …

New top-up tax to affect 1,200 multinational corporations

A new top-up tax is expected to impact 1,200 multinational corporations, but it would generate revenue of 12 billion baht in June 2027 for the public sector, a senior official said.

Revenue Department Deputy Director-general Panuwat Luengwilai said yesterday that the top-up tax came into effect on Jan. 1 this year. The royal decree stipulates that multinational enterprises that pay corporate income tax at a rate below 15% will need to pay the difference (to reach 15%) in the country where its parent company is headquartered. Continued …

Thai government launches ambitious “Homes for Thais” scheme

The Thai government has officially launched its ambitious “Homes for Thais” housing initiative, aimed at addressing the critical housing shortage affecting nearly 5.87 million Thai families, representing 27% of the population who currently do not own homes.

The program, spearheaded by the Ministry of Transport in collaboration with the Ministry of Finance and the State Railway of Thailand, showcased model homes, including the designs for a single-family house and three condominium alternatives. The PM, accompanied by family members, toured the show homes, which feature units starting from 24 square meters — deemed suitable for Thai families. Continued …

Guardrails emphasized for casino bill

The People’s Party (PP) is not against the government’s plan to legalize casinos by integrating them with proposed entertainment complexes in a new bill but wants strict regulations to prevent money laundering and mitigate any negative side-effects on society, its deputy leader, Sirikanya Tansakun said.

Sirikanya, a list MP, said the party emphasizes the need for measures to ensure transparency in the licensing process, prevent money laundering, and protect society from perils such as a potential spike in gambling addicts. Continued …

Entertainment complex: So much for soft power

What makes you want to visit a country – exotic foods, exotic cultures and exotic structures or something modern and potentially sinful that you can find anywhere else?

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s relentless promotion of “soft power” referred to the former. Her support for “entertainment complex” that may include a major casino involves the latter. Continued …

Spaniard’s death hits elephant camps

Elephant camps are one of the most popular destinations among tourists and have played a significant role in the country’s tourism industry. Each year, hundreds of thousands of tourists visit more than 200 elephant camps scattered around the country. The jumbos have been trained to welcome, entertain and impress their guests.

However, the tragic death of a Spanish tourist during a visit to an elephant camp in Thailand this month has raised a big question about safety measures in these camps. Continued …

Pet Tourism Spurs 20% Spending Boost in Thailand’s Central Provinces

Traveling with pets, or pet-friendly travel, has become a growing trend that is attracting a lot of attention. A key driver of this growth in pet-friendly tourism is the behavior of travelers who increasingly want to take their pets with them on trips.

This trend is particularly evident among so-called “Pet-Pleasure Families”, which include owners of dogs, cats and other pets who seek activities and destinations that are comfortable and safe for both them and their furry companions. Continued …

Japan now No.1 over Thailand for Chinese tourists

Japan has dethroned Thailand as the top destination for Chinese tourists in a reversal of fortunes. A surge in visitors last year sent Thailand scrambling to refocus its tourism strategy across other Asian markets.

According to the Japan National Tourism Organization, Japan welcomed 6.98 million Chinese tourists in 2024, an 188% increase. Meanwhile, Thailand’s Tourism and Sports Ministry reported 6.73 million Chinese visitors. Continued …

Thai International Travel Fair 2025 this weekend

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and the Thai Travel Agents Assn. (TTAA) are teaming up to boost Thailand’s tourism market at the “Thai International Travel Fair 2025 (TITF#30),” held at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center through tomorrow.

The 30th edition is a tourism trade fair that brings together Thai and international tourism products and services, offering tourists the opportunity to meet and interact directly with tourism operators. Continued …

Soft Power: The Hidden Force That Enhances Globalization and Creates Sustainability

Globalization continues to make the world a smaller place. In all corners of the planet, relentless advances in transportation and communication have expedited the mobility and co-mingling of people, capital, goods, and ideas – to the point where a globalized cultural hybridity has become discernable.

With nearly every country more connected than ever to the global community, what were once distinctive national traits and identities are rapidly losing their luster. Wherever we go, handicrafts, fashions and dishes embodying unique regional differences are being supplanted by identikit, mass-market products carrying the same old brands – whether Louis Vuitton, H&M, or McDonald’s – distributed worldwide by the same online and high-street retailers. Continued …

UNESCO status sought for Nakhon Si Thammarat temple

Natural Resources and Environment Minister Chalermchai Sri-on is preparing to propose to the cabinet that Wat Phra Mahathat Woramahawihan in Nakhon Si Thammarat be given the backing it needs to secure UNESCO World Heritage status.

Apichat Sakdiset, adviser to the Natural Resources and Environment Minister, said yesterday Chalermchai would submit the proposal to the cabinet for consideration on Tuesday. Continued … 

Video: Phuket’s Waste Management Reaches Critical Point

Phuket, a popular Thai island, faces a waste crisis with 1,100 tons of daily garbage overwhelming its landfill, causing severe odor issues for residents, while authorities and NGOs push for waste reduction and sustainable solutions.

Video …

The rapid development of Phuket has pushed trash volumes above pre-pandemic levels, with the island attracting about 13 million foreign arrivals in 2024, compared to about 6 million two decades ago. This has led to severe environmental and health issues, including pollution of the sea and air. For instance, plastic bottles and empty beer cans are found rolling on the sea floor around the island, while garbage piles up on the land. Continued …

Third time lucky for nuclear power?

Thailand is embarking on a fresh effort to develop nuclear power-generation facilities as part of its plan to increase the nation’s supply of clean electricity.

The country initially tried to adopt nuclear power technology during the 1970s, leading to the approval of a land purchase in Chon Buri’s Si Racha district for the construction of a nuclear power plant by the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT), but the plan was aborted following the discovery of natural gas in the Gulf of Thailand in the early 1980s. Continued …

Sweden backs Phrae to become Thailand’s sustainable Wood City

Sweden is setting its sights on transforming Thailand’s Phrae province into a comprehensive sustainable timber city, leveraging the region’s abundant natural resources and skilled craftsmanship in wood production.

The initiative comes as part of the LoCoFoRest (Locally Controlled Forest Restoration) project, supported by The Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA). Continued …

TikTok’s US future in limbo after Supreme Court ruling

The U.S. Supreme Court yesterday upheld a law that could force TikTok to shut down in the United States, potentially cutting off the app’s 170 million users within days. The unanimous ruling, which found the law does not violate free speech rights, dealt a major blow to TikTok and created uncertainty about what will happen when the ban takes effect tomorrow. Continued …

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.

 

90-day online reporting

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