• Wat Khao Kalok in Pranburi/Can you trust the medicine in Thailand?/Nene Royal didn’t apply to America’s Got Talent/Nene Royal opts for AGT $400,000 payout/USS George H.W. Bush leaves Phuket/Watching Lisa’s Always Lalisa/Thai man wakes with wild python/Thailand weather warning/Death toll reaches 24/Thailand’s new disaster insurance scheme/Inside Bangkok’s flash floods/Toyota Thailand extends production suspensions/Villagers hang motorcycles from trees/Residents fear another month underwater
• THE IRAN WAR: Strait of Hormuz remains volatile
• ECONOMY: IMF-World Bank 2026 agenda/2026 tax revenue beats target/US Thai trade deal is in sight/High-tech industries to shift labor force
• TOURISM: Tourism firms balk at arrival fee/10.14 billion baht from Vegetarian Festival/Chinese flyers to Chiang Mai surge/Krabi eyes boost from Russian tourists/Vietjet Thailand’s Kuala Lumpur to Bangkok route
• CLIMATE THAILAND: Thai Rice Farmers End Stubble Burning
• FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS 

Wat Khao Kalok, Pak Nam Pran, Pranburi

Wat Khao Kalok , also known as Wat Sumanawat, is a colorful and serene seaside temple located near Khao Kalok Beach in Pak Nam Pran, Pranburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan Province.

Its Golden Sanctuary (Vihara) is a striking four-gabled (Jaturamuk) golden sanctuary combining intricate Thai design with Khmer architectural influences, guarded by two giant statues at the entrance.

Inside the sanctuary, visitors worship sculptures of Luang Por Huang Uttamo (the temple’s first abbot) and Prince Admiral Chumphon Khet Udomsak, alongside a prominent statue of Thao Wessuwan outside.

The temple is famous in local folklore (Sai Mu) for the legend of a wealthy man reincarnated as a crocodile to guard hidden treasure, making it popular for seeking business success and good fortune via its sacred “Crocodile Flag” amulets.

Can you trust the medicine in Thailand?

Thailand is stepping up its fight against fake medicine, but recent cases show how lucrative and sophisticated the trade has become. With counterfeit products increasingly finding buyers online, stopping them before they reach consumers is becoming its own challenge. Video … 

Nene Royal didn’t apply to America’s Got Talent. An American fan did it for her. His name is Sean, and like thousands of others, he first saw her playing on the street in Phuket. Unlike most of them, he didn’t just film it and walk away.

Struck by her voice, her guitar playing and the way she owned a crowd, he went to her parents with an idea that must have sounded almost absurd. Send her to America’s Got Talent.

Then he did the work. According to Thai media, Sean gathered clips of her performances, filled in the English-language application and handled the communication with the show’s casting team in the United States. It didn’t happen on the first try. He kept going until the family finally got the message they’d been waiting for: Nene was invited to audition in Los Angeles.

You know the rest. Zombie, the most-watched audition of the season. A Golden Buzzer. Linkin Park. A million dollars, and the first Thai winner in the show’s history.

He isn’t the only foreigner in her story. Years earlier, an American musician living in Phuket, known online as Banana Man, sat with a 10-year-old Nene and helped her with English pronunciation, including the lyrics to Bohemian Rhapsody. When people started crediting him for her success, he pushed back, saying it belonged to her family, her coaches and her.

That’s the fair way to see it. The talent was hers. The thousands of hours were hers. Her parents bought the guitar and drove her to the market. But sometimes a career turns on a stranger who notices, and then bothers to fill out the form.

Nene Royal opts for AGT $400,000 lump-sum prize payout

Thai singer Nene Royal, named as the winner of America’s Got Talent 2026, has said she will take the program’s prize money as a one-off payment rather than in instalments.

America’s Got Talent offers its US$1 million prize under terms allowing winners to choose either scheduled payments or a single lump sum. Under the program’s stated terms, a winner choosing a one-off payment receives net cash estimated to be around US$400,000, before any tax deductions. Continued … 

USS George H.W. Bush leaves Phuket after five-day visit

The US aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush and its escort, USS Delbert D. Black, left Phuket yesterday after a five-day stop that gave more than 5,000 personnel time ashore.

The two vessels had been anchored about 1.78 nautical miles, or around 3.3 kilometers, from Phuket Deep Sea Port in Mueang district . All personnel departed with the ships. Continued … 

Things to know before watching Lisa’s Always Lalisa

Always Lalisa, a documentary following Thai singer and actor Lalisa “Lisa” Manobal during a year away from Blackpink’s group activities, opens in Thai cinemas on Oct. 12. Screenings run until Oct. 18 in IMAX and standard formats, with standard tickets starting at 350 baht.

The film explores Lisa’s professional ambitions and private experiences as she develops her solo career, offering audiences a closer look at the person behind her public image. Continued … 

Thai man wakes to rescuers, then sees video of himself carrying a wild python home

A night out in Thailand turned into a wildlife rescue story after an intoxicated man brought a wild python home. Even more amazingly, the man, who had no recollection of bringing the animal home, woke up to rescuers removing it from his house.

According to the report, the man had been out drinking with friends before they noticed a snake in the roadway blocking an area where they wanted to park. Continued … 

Thailand weather warning: storms and hail until October 15

Thailand is facing a week of thunderstorms, strong winds, hail and lightning, with heavy to very heavy rain possible in some areas through Oct. 15. The Thai Meteorological Department warned that accumulated rain could bring flash floods and forest runoff, particularly in vulnerable areas.

People across the country have been advised to prepare for thunderstorms, gusty winds, hail and intense rainfall. The department said the risk is greatest near foothills, waterways and low-lying locations that are prone to flooding. Continued … 

Prachin Buri floods ease as death toll reaches 24, recovery begins

Flood conditions in Prachin Buri have begun to improve, with water levels falling steadily in several areas and along the province’s main river. Local authorities are deploying pumps and sandbags to protect economic zones, while preparing recovery efforts as the disaster’s death toll reaches 24.

the Prachin Buri Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Command reported that water levels along the Prachin Buri River at monitoring stations in Kabin Buri, Si Maha Phot and Mueang districts were trending downward. However, prolonged heavy rain has affected seven districts, 65 subdistricts, 691 villages and 37 communities, impacting a total of 60,317 households. Continued … 

Thailand’s new disaster insurance scheme caps household payouts at 100,000 baht

Thailand’s government-funded disaster insurance program took effect on Oct. 1, covering an estimated 30 million homes against flooding, windstorms, and earthquakes across Bangkok and all provinces.

Households affected by flooding receive an initial payment of 10,000 baht. Windstorm or earthquake damage triggers 5,000 baht. Total compensation is capped at 100,000 baht (roughly US$3,020) per household per disaster, based on verified physical damage to house structures. A separate 2 million baht payment applies to disaster-related deaths. Continued … 

Inside Bangkok’s flash floods

Bangkok’s severe flash floods, exploring how extreme rainfall, sinking geography, and communication breakdowns are testing the city’s infrastructure limits.

The flashpoints: Non-stop heavy rainfall overwhelming drainage systems, cars floating away, and residents left stranded in neck-deep water across the capital. Video … 

Toyota Thailand extends production suspensions due to flooding

Toyota Motor Thailand has extended production suspensions at its Samrong, Ban Pho and Gateway plants, with operations now expected to resume between Oct. 14 and 19 as flooding continues to disrupt parts deliveries.

The company initially suspended production at the three plants from Oct. 5-10 due to flooding affecting deliveries in Samut Prakan, Chachoengsao and Chon Buri provinces. Continued … 

Villagers hang motorcycles from trees to protect them from floodwaters

Flood-hit Chachoengsao residents fear another month underwater

Residents of Pak Nam subdistrict in Bang Khla district, Chachoengsao, have endured flooding for more than two weeks, with reports that the situation could continue for another 30 days, adding to their anxiety over how long they must live with the hardship.

Flooding continued to disrupt daily life in Bang Khla, particularly in Pak Nam, where many families have been living with standing water for more than two weeks. The possibility of another month of flooding has left residents worried about the prolonged impact on their homes, livelihoods and families. Continued … 

Strait of Hormuz remains volatile, with attacks reaching their highest level

Media has reported that oil tankers traveling through the Strait of Hormuz are being targeted almost daily, as Iran is escalating its attacks in an attempt to halt its recovering crude oil exports.

Data from the International Maritime Organization (IMO), a United Nations agency, indicates that in the week ending Oct. 4, 11 oil tankers were attacked while passing through the Strait of Hormuz, the highest number since the war began in late February. Continued … 

IMF-World Bank 2026 agenda puts global outlook, AI and Thailand in focus

Thailand is preparing to host the 2026 annual meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank Group from Oct. 12 to 18 at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center in Bangkok, bringing global economic forecasts, financial stability, artificial intelligence and green investment into focus.

The gathering marks Thailand’s return as host after 35 years, following the 1991 annual meetings, and will bring together economic policymakers, central bank governors, financial institutions and business leaders from around the world. Continued … 

2026 tax revenue of 2.5 trillion baht beats target

The Revenue Department collected 2.52 trillion baht in tax revenue in the 2026 fiscal year that ended on Sept. 30, exceeding its target by 7.5 billion baht, according to Acting Director-general Salakjit Phongsirichan.

She said revenue collection was 8% higher, or 186 billion baht, than in the previous fiscal year, partly due to higher value-added tax (VAT) receipts. Continued … 

Commerce Minister says that a November signing of a US Thai trade deal is in sight

A US–Thailand trade deal is heading for a November signing after President Donald Trump wrote directly to Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul. However, critical terms remain unresolved despite agreement in principle. Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthumpun is targeting the ASEAN summit in the Philippines.

Meanwhile, Thai exporters face existing US tariffs and further Section 301 threats. Vietnam is advancing its own deal, while Thailand seeks parity with regional competitors. Even a November signing may leave exporters waiting for implementation. Continued … 

High-tech industries to shift labor force

Thailand’s high-tech industries require a diverse array of specialized technical and soft skills to keep pace with rapid technological transitions. Key requirements include expertise in artificial intelligence (AI) development, coding, and robotics, as well as proficiency in digital technologies, data science, and automated systems.

Additionally, there is a growing demand for specialized skills in green technology, such as electric vehicle (EV) engineering and sustainable energy management, to support the transition to a green economy.

Beyond technical mastery, high-tech sectors increasingly prioritize advanced soft skills and human-centric capabilities. Professionals are expected to possess strong analytical thinking, creativity, adaptability, and problem-solving abilities to manage complex, AI-driven systems. – Bangkok Post AI

Tourism firms balk at arrival fee being used for medical insurance

Tourism operators oppose the 450-baht fee because they believe it is unfair to genuine travelers. They argue that the funds intended for travel insurance for all foreign visitors are more likely to cover unpaid medical bills incurred by foreign workers rather than tourists.

The Association of Thai Hotels has suggested that the government instead require travelers to purchase their own insurance before arriving in Thailand, which would reduce individual responsibility and mitigate risks. Additionally, industry representatives have expressed concerns regarding the lack of a clear budget allocation, noting that the funds should prioritize tourism development, such as infrastructure, environmental improvements, and digital transformation. – Bangkok Post AI

TAT forecasts 10.14 billion baht from Vegetarian Festival

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) forecasts more than 1.32 million domestic visitor trips and about 10.14 billion baht in tourism revenue across 10 key provinces during the Vegetarian Festival from Oct. 9–18.

TAT expects Bangkok to generate 6.71 billion baht in tourism revenue during the festival, with nine southern provinces contributing a combined 3.43 billion baht. Phuket accounts for 1.43 billion baht of the southern forecast. Continued … 

Chinese flyers to Chiang Mai surge during Golden Week

Visitors from China using Chiang Mai Airport jumped during the Golden Week period, reinforcing the northern city as a popular vacation destination for the Chinese.

An average of 1,744 Chinese travelers passed through the airport each day of the Golden Week from Oct. 1-7, soaring 37% from the daily average of only 1,271 last month. Continued … 

Krabi eyes boost from Russian tourists

Four Russian cities will be connected to Krabi via charter flights this month. These flights, operated by Siamwings airlines, are intended to boost tourism and strengthen the region’s role as a gateway to the Andaman coast.

The specific Russian cities included in these new routes are Moscow, Yekaterinburg, Krasnoyarsk, and Novosibirsk. Deputy Transport Minister Phattrapong Phattraprasit noted that these charter services are expected to bring more than 3,000 Russian tourists to the area. The flights are being operated by Siamwings airlines using Airbus A330-300 aircraft, which have a capacity of 453 passengers. – Bangkok Post AI

Vietjet Thailand’s Kuala Lumpur to Bangkok route starts

Vietjet Thailand has launched daily flights between Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur, marking the airline’s first route to Malaysia. The service will run between Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) and Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) on a Boeing 737-8.

VZ680 departs Bangkok at 11 am and arrives in Kuala Lumpur at 2.10 pm. VZ681 departs Kuala Lumpur at 3.15 pm and arrives in Bangkok at 4.30 pm. Continued … 

How CNH Equipment Is Helping Thai Rice Farmers End Stubble Burning

CNH Industrial is demonstrating how the right mechanization can help rice farmers move away from crop-residue burning, with a successful trial in Thailand showing a practical path to healthier soils and cleaner air.

Equipment from its New Holland brand is supporting Thai farmer Pichai Tosa to manage rice straw sustainably after harvest. Tosa, a well-established rice and mung bean grower in Nakhon Sawan province, trialed a New Holland TT3.50 tractor and mulcher during the April rice harvest in central Thailand. Instead of burning, the straw was chopped and retained on the field or incorporated back into the soil to build organic matter. Continued … 

Burmese drug kingpin with multiple identities and lives linked to massive cash seizure in Chiang Rai

Two boxes packed with 23 million baht inside a pickup at the Chiang Rai border have exposed a suspected international crime network. At its center is Noo Chen, a Burmese-born drug kingpin who reportedly faked his murder in 2022 before his arrest in South Korea in April 2026. Now, Thai investigators are tracing over 1 billion baht in suspected drug money laundering and 2.5 billion baht in call-center fraud losses. Continued … 

• Chonburi police raid alleged Chinese nominee firm – Continued … 

• Indian passenger held as 6-million baht in gold found in speaker – Continued … 

• Pattaya condo raid nets two Nigerians and cocaine – Continued … 

• British tourist questioned over Pattaya motorbike theft – Continued … 

• Chinese man held over alleged Thai identity fraud – Continued … 

• Thailand starts China extradition case against reporter – Continued … 

Trump calls Nobel Peace Prize pick ‘disgraceful’

US President Donald Trump slammed the “disgraceful” Nobel Peace Prize choice yesterday as leaving an “indelible stain” on Norway, arguing that the award should have gone to him. South African judge and human rights champion Navi Pillay won the prestigious prize in recognition of her work against war crimes and crimes against humanity. Continued … 

Hua Hin Links and Transport

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