THAI.NEWS - Thailand Breaking News

Members of the Muslim Students Federation of Thailand gathered on a vibrant Skywalk in Bangkok’s bustling Pathumwan district, marking the poignant 15th anniversary of the Tak Bai massacre on October 25, 2019. This solemn assembly, vividly captured in numerous photographs, serves as a determined battle cry for justice and remembrance. In a significant and hopeful turn of events, activists are celebrating the Narathiwat Provincial Court’s decision to proceed with a lawsuit against seven officials, charged with murder and kidnapping during the 2004 Tak Bai massacre. Srisompob Jitpiromsri, esteemed director of Deep South Watch, heralded this move as a pivotal step towards achieving justice and peace in Thailand’s troubled southern regions. Mr. Srisompob voiced his thoughts during an inspiring talk held in Pattani’s Muang district on a slightly overcast Monday. The gathering aimed to dissect the court’s courageous choice to entertain the lawsuit against the seven former officials, who stand accused…

Tragedy struck Phuket last Friday as a devastating landslide claimed the lives of 13 individuals, mostly foreign nationals, in a catastrophic event that has left the community reeling. The provincial office, under the leadership of Governor Sophon Suwannarat, is taking immediate action by consulting with experts to survey the affected mountaintop area in the Nak Kerd mountain range, located in tambon Karon, to uncover the root causes of the disaster and implement measures to prevent future occurrences. The landslide, which occurred last week, tragically resulted in the deaths of two Russians and nine Myanmar nationals. The authorities have swiftly reached out to the local Russian Consular Office and the Myanmar Embassy to coordinate efforts and inform the respective families. Additionally, 19 individuals were injured in the incident, though 14 have since been discharged from the hospital, a small relief amidst the grief. Reports indicate that the relentless heavy rain, persisting…

The Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) is on the brink of an exciting and significant decision that could redefine the future of its aerial capabilities. By the end of the week, as confirmed by Air Chief Marshal Panpakdee Pattanakul, the RTAF will reveal whether it plans to rejuvenate its ageing fleet with the Swedish-made Gripen E-model or the US-made F-16 Block 70 jets. The suspense is reaching its peak as both aerospace giants, Saab AB (the maker of Gripen) and Lockheed Martin (the manufacturer of the F-16), have put forward their final proposals. These submissions aren’t just about the aircraft but come bundled with an enticing offset policy to align with the needs and strategies of the Thai government, ACM Panpakdee added. To ensure this monumental decision is made with the utmost diligence, two specialized panels have been formed to meticulously scrutinize the proposals. The combined expertise and conclusions from…

A member of the insurgent KNDF Karenni Nationalities Defence Force bravely rescued civilians trapped amid relentless airstrikes during a fierce battle to take over Loikaw in Kayah State, Myanmar, on November 14, 2023. (Reuters photo) Thailand took a giant leap forward in providing aid by donating an additional nine million baht to fund humanitarian assistance for the ongoing crisis in Myanmar. This generous contribution follows the pledge made by Caretaker Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa at the recent 57th Asean Ministerial Meeting (AMM) held in Vientiane. On Monday, Eksiri Pintaruchi, Permanent Secretary for Foreign Affairs, stood as a representative of the Thai government, making the donation to the Asean Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on Disaster Management (AHA Centre). This contribution aims to alleviate the suffering of the Myanmar populace. Ms. Eksiri shed light on the origins of this funding, indicating that it stems from Mr. Maris’s commitment during the Vientiane…

The owner of the beleaguered Ashton Asoke condominium project, which has been tangled in legal uncertainties for over a year, might now have an unexpected opportunity to re-apply retroactively for a construction permit with the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA), per guidance from the Council of State. This new legal interpretation could be the breakthrough tenants and the upscale condo have anxiously awaited, as it potentially averts the threat of partial demolition. The council’s opinion was relayed by Bangkok Deputy Governor Wisanu Subsompon this Monday. The root of the problem dates back to a Supreme Administrative Court order from last year, mandating the revocation of the condo’s construction permit due to a non-compliant main entrance width. Caught in the aftermath, the BMA sought legal advice from the Council of State on how best to adhere to the court’s order while mitigating the fallout for the condo’s residents and owners. In response,…

In a striking display of unity, coalition party leaders and influential figures gathered at Shinawatra Tower 3 in Bangkok on August 15. With smiles and firm handshakes, they announced their enthusiastic support for Pheu Thai Party leader, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, to take the helm as prime minister. The scene was electrifying, capturing the essence of political collaboration as envisioned by the top brass. (Photo: Nutthawat Wichieanbut) Amidst the bustling political corridors, the Palang Pracharath Party (PPRP) made waves by submitting a formal letter to Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. The content of the letter carried a clear message: the party had faith in her leadership and sought her approval to appoint Pol Gen Phatcharavat Wongsuwan as the natural resources and environment minister. Highlighting their steadfast commitment, PPRP underscored its nomination of four MPs from the previous Srettha administration to retain their positions in the new government. The formidable lineup includes Pol Gen…

In an atmosphere thick with anticipation, coalition party leaders and core figures recently congregated at Shinawatra Tower 3 in Bangkok on August 15. The congregation, a spectacle of political unity, was to throw their unwavering support behind the ruling Pheu Thai Party’s leader, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, who is slated to take the helm as the country’s prime minister. (Photo: Nutthawat Wichieanbut) The plot thickens as the Palang Pracharath Party (PPRP) has thrown a proverbial spanner in the works, submitting a formal request to Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. The crux of the letter? A humble petition asking her to delegate her list of appointments to the seasoned Pol Gen Phatcharavat Wongsuwan, who’s in line to be named the natural resources and environment minister. These political maneuvers are nothing if not captivating, evoking a chess game of epic proportions. The coalition partner underscored its steadfast support for Ms. Paetongpat as the prime minister.…

Chiang Mai, the jewel of northern Thailand, is quickly transforming into a bustling hub for domestic travelers, especially during the high season. The city’s charm and cultural allure have always been magnetic, but now, its airport is overflowing with tourists, making seamless travel a top priority. The Airports of Thailand (AoT) is taking monumental steps to cater to this surge in visitors. On a balmy Monday, AoT initiated its inaugural public hearing for a comprehensive 24-billion-baht, five-year strategy aimed at amplifying Chiang Mai International Airport’s passenger capacity to an impressive 20 million annually. This landmark event took place at the Centara Riverside Hotel in Chiang Mai, drawing about 300 local residents eager to participate in shaping the city’s future. Piyapong Prapanwattana, the director of the Natural Resources and Environment Ministry’s provincial office, led the hearing, setting a tone of collaboration and forward-thinking. The spotlight was on AoT’s environmental director, Suwicha…

The tranquil neighborhood of Bang Yai in Nonthaburi could hardly have anticipated the buzz it would generate this past weekend. On Saturday, as the sun dipped below the horizon at 5pm, the quiet was shattered by a dramatic arrest that seemed right out of a high-stakes thriller. The star of this real-life drama? A 40-year-old man named Pisan. For nearly a year, Pisan led a double life. By day, he was a seemingly trustworthy employee at a local gold shop under the jurisdiction of Phra Ratchawang Police. By night, according to authorities, he masterminded a grand heist, slowly siphoning off an astounding 24 million baht worth of gold necklaces and bracelets over twelve months. It was only a matter of time before his two worlds collided. The intricate web of deceit began unraveling when police received a tip-off, leading them to a house in the serene Bang Yai City village.…

At the bustling auditorium of the College of Management, Mahidol University (CMMU), an air of anticipation hung like festive decorations. The audience, a blend of corporate leaders, academic minds, and curious onlookers, sat in rapt attention as Dr. Pongthep Wongwatcharapaiboon, the dynamic Manager of the Thai Health Promotion Foundation (ThaiHealth), strode to the podium. With a confident smile, he began what would be a compelling seminar on the strides made and the tools developed for sustainable organisational well-being. “We’ve drafted a 10-year strategy,” Dr. Pongthep announced, his voice echoing through the high-ceilinged hall. “It’s not just a plan; it’s a vision encapsulated in five focal points: Impact, Scaling up, Alignment with the 7+1 organisational well-being goals, Sustainability, and the magic touch of Innovation and Technology.” Heads nodded in agreement; this was the roadmap to a healthier workplace. Dr. Pongthep elaborated on ThaiHealth’s blossoming network of healthy organisations. “We’ve been pressing…