Queen Mother passes away/Public Mourning Guidelines/Economic measures to curb agricultural burning/Ex-National Chief Guilty for Gambling Graft/ECONOMY: New economic obstacles emerge/TOURISM: Infrastructure upgrades propopsed/29 Flights Canceled/CLIMATE THAILAND: Solar plan ‘could slash’ power bills/Thailand 6th for plastic waste in ocean/FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/HUA HIN LINKS
Queen Mother passes away
Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother passed away peacefully at 9.21pm on Friday at King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, the Thai Red Cross Society, the Bureau of the Royal Household announced.
The bureau said in a statement that a team of doctors monitoring and treating Her Majesty’s health at the hospital since Sept. 7, 2019, found she had several illnesses and abnormalities in multiple systems that required ongoing medical care. Continued …
Public Mourning Guidelines Following the Passing of Queen Sirikit
Thailand has entered a period of mourning following the announcement that Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, The Queen Mother, has passed away peacefully at the age of 93. Across the nation, people have gathered to express grief and gratitude for Her Majesty’s lifelong dedication to the country, with many paying respects in front of Chulalongkorn Hospital in Bangkok.
In the wake of the announcement, former permanent secretary of the Interior Ministry Suttipong Juljarern outlined the official mourning protocols to be observed by government agencies, the private sector, and the public. National flags will be flown at half-mast for 15 days from the date of the announcement. Civil servants, state enterprise staff and all government personnel are to wear black attire for 30 days. Members of the public and private organizations are asked to dress appropriately in dark, somber clothing as a mark of respect. Continued …
Economic measures to curb agricultural burning and reduce PM2.5 pollution
The National Environmental Board has approved new measures to tackle the annual challenges of wildfires, haze, and PM2.5 pollution. The measures focus on the agricultural sector, particularly the burning of agricultural waste, and utilize economic mechanisms to incentivize the reduction of fires.
The Ministry of Industry has set a target for burnt sugarcane (a major cause of agricultural burning) to make up no more than 15% of total sugarcane production throughout the season. Authorities also proposed customs duty exemptions for importing sugarcane harvesting equipment, and offered government financial support to encourage farmers to harvest fresh sugarcane and sell sugarcane leaves and tops to biomass power plants. Continued …
Police Panel Finds Ex-National Chief Guilty for Gambling Graft
The Police Complaint Review Committee has found former national police chief Torsak Sukvimol and more than 200 officers guilty of disciplinary misconduct over alleged involvement in bribes linked to online gambling networks.
According to reports, the committee spent over seven months gathering evidence from multiple agencies and reviewing records dating back several years. The investigation concluded last week when the panel ruled that Torsak and the implicated officers had committed disciplinary offenses related to receiving illicit payments from online gambling operations. Continued …
New economic obstacles emerge as 2025 winds down
As the end of 2025 draws closer, the global economic landscape presents a complex picture of divergent growth paths, persistent policy uncertainty, and shifting trade dynamics.
The International Monetary Fund projects global growth of just 3.2% in 2025 and 3.1% in 2026, a marked slowdown from the 3.3% recorded in 2024, with risks remaining tilted to the downside. Continued …
Infrastructure upgrades propopsed to lift Thai tourism
The Ministry of Transport wants to upgrade infrastructure to facilitate travelers, proposing an extension of a high-speed railway from U-tapao airport to Rayong and Trat, and attracting more direct flights to Krabi airport from the congested Phuket airport while a new airport in Phangnga is constructed.
Transport Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn said the ministry had already told the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) committee to study the possibility of extending the high-speed railway that is intended to link Don Mueang, Suvarnabhumi, and U-tapao airports. Continued …
29 Flights Canceled by Cathay Pacific, Jetstar, AirAsia, and More
A growing number of Thailand flight cancellations thas caused frustration for travelers, as both Phuket International Airport and Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi International Airport reported 29 total canceled departures. The disruptions have affected key routes to Hong Kong, Bengaluru, Perth, Jakarta, Samui, Xiamen, and Techo International Airport, creating ripple effects across Southeast Asian air travel.
At Phuket International Airport, several scheduled international services did not take off as planned. Key cancellations included: Continued …
Solar plan ‘could slash’ power bills
The government yesterday unveiled plans for the nationwide expansion of solar farms. Under the program, community solar farms would be established depending on the potential local demand, government spokesman Siripong Angkasakulkiat said.
Two solar plans under the strategy include a tax rebate for households installing solar panels, benefiting about 90,000 homes nationwide, and the deployment of floating solar farms at the Bhumibol, Vajiralongkorn and Srinagarind dams. Continued …
Thailand ranks 6th globally for plastic waste in the ocean
The Department of Marine and Coastal Resources has revealed that Thailand is ranked sixth globally for the amount of plastic waste it releases into the ocean, which has severe impacts on the environment, economy, and society.
This problem also affects marine ecosystems and animals, such as whales, sea turtles, dugongs, and seabirds, which may ingest plastic thinking it is food or get entangled in it, leading to injury or death. Microplastics also pollute seawater, entering the food chain and potentially affecting human health through seafood consumption. Continued …
Foreigners Arrested for Unlawful Business in Patong – Continued …
Iranian Couple Caught Stealing $1,600 in Bangkok Mall – Continued …
Chiang Rai Police Seize 2,057 ATM Cards From Chinese National – Continued …
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
Staying entertained at Chat Chia/Heavy rains, strong winds/Physical Activity and Gut Health/Cambodia Border Casinos Reeling/Bangkok Unveils ‘Dust DNA’ Initiative/Lawyer asked to explain Bt12-million cash/ECONOMY: Tariff impact likely in Q3/Auto market faces critical challenges/Ready to invest in land bridge/nvestor Confidence Holds Steady/Transport plans on fast track/Sukiyaki battle/TOURISM: To restore China market/Qantas to close Jetstar Asia/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Why Thai food is spicy/Chilli paste competition/What does durian taste like?/CLIMATE THAILAND: Islanders Urged to Reduce Plastic Usage/Bangkok urban green spaces under threat/FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/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
Staying entertained at the Chat Chia market
With her mother and father at work selling their fresh vegetables at the Chat Chai market in central Hua Hin every day, their young daughter is left with her parents’ cellphone for entertainment during the long morning when the market is open. (Expat News)
Heavy rains, strong winds, and rough seas expected across Thailand
The Thai Meteorological Department has issued a warning for increased rainfall and strong winds, as a monsoon trough lies across the north and upper northeast, while a strong southwest monsoon prevails over the Andaman Sea, southern Thailand, and the Gulf of Thailand.
Heavy rain is expected across the country, with isolated very heavy rain likely in the north, northeast, east, and south (west coast), the department said. People in these areas should be cautious of heavy rainfall and the potential for flash floods, especially in lowland areas and along waterways near foothills. Continued …
The Connection Between Physical Activity and Gut Health
An increasing number of spa-goers desire an experience that includes more than spa treatments to enhance their overall wellbeing; therefore, many spas are updating their menu of services to include health and wellness offerings.
Some of these offerings are in the form of nutrition consultations, fitness classes, and oral-based vitamins and supplements that not only help enhance clients’ skin, but also help them achieve a healthier gut microbiome. Continued …
A Thai military-led border restriction targeting cross-border gambling has severely impacted 10 major casinos in Poipet, Cambodia, with operations grinding to a near standstill and thousands of Thai workers sent home.
Now, after days of intensified border controls at the Ban Khlong Luek checkpoint in Aranyaprathet District, the once-bustling Poipet gambling zone has turned eerily quiet. The move is part of Thailand’s strategic response to ongoing border disputes with Cambodia, using economic pressure to curb tensions. Continued …
Bangkok Unveils ‘Dust DNA’ Initiative with China and Industry to Tackle PM2.5
The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has launched an ambitious new project, dubbed “Dust DNA,” in collaboration with China and the private sector, aimed at revolutionizing the fight against air pollution in the Thai capital.
The initiative will see the installation of a cutting-edge “Super Station” to conduct real-time chemical analysis of PM2.5 fine particulate matter, paving the way for cleaner air across Bangkok. Continued …
National Telecom lawyer asked to explain Bt12-million cash stash
Police have confirmed that 12 million baht in cash found in a plastic box near a condominium’s rubbish area in Nonthaburi belongs to Taweewat Sengkaew, a lawyer and adviser to the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC).
However, investigators say his income records do not match his being in possession of such a large sum. Taweewat came forward to claim the money on Friday, after the box was discovered earlier that week. Continued …
Tariff impact likely in Q3
The impact of U.S. President Donald Trump’s tariffs on the Thai economy is likely to become clearer in the third quarter, says Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat.
Thai exports accelerated in the second quarter to avoid the tariffs, as a 90-day pause on the measures means their impact is still unknown, he said. Continued …
Thailand’s position in the ASEAN automotive landscape is facing increasing pressure as regional dynamics shift. The country experienced a staggering 26% YoY decline in light vehicle (LV) sales in 2024, and the outlook for 2025 remains bleak, with a further contraction of 7% YoY experienced in Q1 compared to an already depressed base during the same period in 2024, signaling continued weakness in domestic demand.
Passenger vehicles (PVs) and light ocmercial vehicles (LCVs) both suffered downturns in Q1 2025, with the LCV segment particularly hard hit and dropping by a significant 13% YoY, largely due to the sluggish 1-ton pickup truck market. The PV segment showed a more modest decline of 5%, but still reflects broader consumer caution. Continued …
DP World ready to invest in land bridge, says Transport Ministry source
The Transport Ministry and Dubai Port World (DP World) are in discussions regarding the continuation of a 1-trillion-baht investment in the land bridge project.
A source from the Transport Ministry revealed that the ministry’s permanent secretary, Chayatan Phromsorn, chaired a meeting with DP World to discuss the readiness to invest in this significant transportation infrastructure project. Continued …
Investor confidence in Thailand remained in a “neutral” zone in May, buoyed by hopes of government stimulus and domestic economic recovery, but tempered by concerns over sluggish local growth and global trade tensions.
The latest FETCO Investor Confidence Index (ICI), compiled by the Federation of Thai Capital Market Organizations (FETCO), registered 110.36 for May. The survey, conducted between May 19 and 31, anticipates market conditions over the next three months. Continued …
Transport plans now on fast track
Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit has ordered that key transport infrastructure projects be sped up, particularly the second phase of the Bangkok–Nong Khai high-speed rail line.
Meanwhile, the government said it is expediting the disbursement of the 2025 fiscal year’s investment budget to drive development forward. Suriya reported that, as of the end of May, the Transport Ministry had disbursed 93 billion baht from its total investment allocation of 212.21 billion baht for the year. Continued …
Sukiyaki battle boils up
As consumers tighten their budgets, leading sukiyaki restaurants are engaging in a price war to attract customers. This strategy has advantages and drawbacks, while the effect on sales can be uncertain.
Local suki giants MK Restaurants and Suki Teenoi are going head-to-head in a battle for diners, as the sluggish economy affects purchasing power and bites into sales at eateries. Continued …
Tour firm seeks to restore China market
With Chinese arrivals plummeting by 32.7% in the first five months, a major Chinese travel agency has proposed strategies to weather the crisis of confidence in Thailand and China’s economic slowdown, while emphasizing that casinos may not be the right solution to restore this market.
Jennifer Fan, product director at Tuniu Corp., said prior to the pandemic, the number of Chinese tourists booking trips to Thailand via Tuniu tallied over 100,000 a year, but the market has plunged to 20,000, mainly due to eroded confidence in Thailand’s safety. Continued …
Qantas to close Jetstar Asia, freeing up capital for new fleet
Qantas Airways said low-cost subsidiary JetStar Asia will close next month, freeing up as much as A$500 million ($327 million) in capital to fund the group’s fleet renewal program.
Singapore-based JetStar Asia, which is 49% owned by Qantas, is expected to post a A$35 million underlying operating loss this financial year in the face of intensifying competition and rising costs, Qantas said today. Thirteen Jetstar Asia Airbus A320 aircraft will be redeployed to Australia and New Zealand. Continued …
Why Thai food is often so spicy
If you have ever tasted Thai cuisine, chances are you’ve encountered that signature fiery heat – whether it’s the classic Tom Yam Kung or the beloved Som Tum (papaya salad), spiciness seems almost unavoidable in many of Thailand’s most iconic dishes. But why does Thai food have to be so spicy?
One compelling explanation lies in the climate. Thailand’s hot and humid weather provides the perfect breeding ground for bacteria and fungi, making food spoil more easily compared to countries in colder regions. Chili – rich in a compound called capsaicin – helps inhibit the growth of harmful microbes, naturally extending the shelf life of food without the need for modern preservation technologies found in Europe or America. Continued …
Chilli paste competition sparks local flavour revival
A contest organized by the Cultural Media Center aims to discover the tastiest chilli paste from communities across Thailand, promoting the sustainable preservation of local flavors. The event took place in Amphawa, Samut Songkhram. Video …
What does durian taste, smell, feel like? Netizens share their views
A reddit user recently shared their first experience tasting durian, the so-called “king of fruits,” sparking a lively social media discussion about the fruit’s distinctive taste, smell and texture.
In a post titled “I tried durian for the first time…”, the user expressed surprise at how much they enjoyed the fruit. “This stuff is awesome! I have no idea what people are complaining about. I really don’t even think it smells that bad. So creamy, so delicious. I love durian!!!” they wrote. Continued …
Marine and Coastal Resources Department Calls on Islanders to Reduce Plastic Usage
The Department of Marine and Coastal Resources (DMCR) has launched a campaign urging islanders to reduce their plastic consumption. This initiative is part of a broader effort to combat the growing threat of plastic pollution, which is impacting marine ecosystems and local wildlife. By promoting alternative materials and practices, the DMCR aims to foster a more sustainable lifestyle among residents and businesses.
Residents on many islands are beginning to witness firsthand the detrimental effects of plastic waste. Beaches are often littered with plastic debris, posing hazards to marine animals and negatively affecting tourism. The DMCR’s campaign emphasizes education and community involvement, encouraging islanders to participate in cleanup activities and adopt reusable products. Continued …
As tree planting gathers pace in Bangkok, urban green spaces still under threat
Urban tree-planting efforts are gathering pace in Bangkok, underpinned by aspirations to boost climate resilience, mitigate dust pollution, and conserve biodiversity. However, a recent study warns that the Thai capital continues to rapidly lose tree cover from its existing green spaces.
The study used satellite data and field surveys to analyze patterns of tree cover loss in Bangkok between 2018 and 2022, finding a 10.5% drop in tree cover across the whole city, with larger areas of urban woodland losing more than 20% of their canopy cover. Continued …
British Tourists Charged with Smuggling £1m Cannabis After Thai Trip – Continued …
Vietnamese Call Center Gang Busted in Thailand for Defrauding Fellow Nationals – Continued …Bus service between Hua Hin, Don Mueang Airport in BangkokThe first-class bus service between Don Mueang Airport and Hua Hin offers two round trips daily. The fare is 200 baht each way and takes three-and-a-half hours. The Hua Hin departure is from the current Transport Co. terminal just north of Hua Hin Airport.
(We recommend checking with the bus company about this schedule, as it changes without notice.)
Starting May 1, the Don Mueang-Hua Hin route will offer four round trips per day. The two outbound trips from Don Mueang Airport will depart at 8 am and 3 pm. The bus will stop at eight locations, including the Service Hall at Don Mueang, Mo Chit 2 Bus Terminal in Bangkok, Mahachai, Phetchaburi Big C, Phetchaburi Bus Station, Cha Am PTT Petrol Station, Bluport Hua Hin Resort Mall, and the Hua Hin Bus Station.
For the return trips from Hua Hin, buses will depart at 9 am and 3:30 pm, stopping at seven locations, including the Hua Hin Bus Station, Bluport Hua Hin Resort Mall, Cha Am PTT Petrol Station, Phetchaburi Bus Station, Mahachai, Mo Chit 2 Bus Terminal, and Don Mueang Airport.
Online Booking and Customer Service: Facebook Page: BorKorSor; LINE ID: @TCL99; Website: TCL99 Transport.
Economic measures to curb agricultural burning and reduce PM2.5 pollution
Police Panel Finds Ex-National Chief Guilty for Gambling Graft
Solar plan ‘could slash’ power bills
Thailand ranks 6th globally for plastic waste in the ocean
