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THAI.NEWS - Thailand Breaking News

Bangkok’s Flat Fare Revolution: 20-Baht Red Line Transformation into 2025

As you stroll through the buzzing Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal, you might notice a rather eye-catching sign announcing the 20-baht flat-fare rate on the Red Line trains. On that breezy morning of October 16, 2023, a unique travel revolution was afoot, capturing the attention of commuters and sparking discussions across the city. All courtesy of the lens of Apichart Jinakul, whose photograph immortalized the moment. The much-celebrated cabinet has gone above and beyond by approving a 400 million baht budget, supporting the extension of this affordable fare for the Red and Purple electric train lines for yet another year. This extension blankets the State Railway of Thailand’s (SRT) Red lines—spanning from the Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal to Taling Chan along the Nakhon Withi Line, and rolling from the very same terminal to Rangsit in Pathum Thani on the Thani Ratthaya Line. It’s a joyful ride extended to the…

Pattaya’s Hidden Underworld Exposed: Police Raid Uncovers $400 Million Loan Empire

Picture this: the vibrant beats of Pattaya rocked by a dramatic police raid, uncovering a clandestine network right in the heart of luxury. It’s a tale as gripping as any thriller, set amidst the sunny allure of Thailand’s famous beach city. On November 27, 2024, Pattaya became more than just a tourist haven; it was the backdrop for a major takedown of a shadowy enterprise operated by 17 Chinese nationals. The raid was no spur-of-the-moment affair. It was a meticulously planned operation led by Pol Lt Gen Yingyos Thepjamnong, the astute acting commander of Provincial Police Region 2. With the utmost precision, authorities targeted two posh residences nestled in the upscale Khao Phra Tamnak area of South Pattaya. These were no ordinary homes but looked like any typical seaside estate, except that their occupants were not soaking up the sun or sipping cocktails—they were running an illicit financial empire. As…

Korean Influencer Ji Gamin Faces Lese-Majeste Allegations in Thailand

In the bustling world of social media influencers, where glitz and glamour often tread a fine line, it’s not every day you encounter a story that blends international intrigue with local legal traditions. Enter Ji Gamin, a vibrant Korean influencer whose dazzling digital presence spans 1 million followers on TikTok and an impressive 292,000 admirers on Instagram. Yet, it’s not just her knack for entertainment that has caught people’s attention. Recently, Ji Gamin found herself at the heart of a cultural and legal maelstrom in Thailand. Sparked by allegations, the story began when Ji Gamin, a notable name in the influencer circuit, reportedly posted content that may have transgressed the delicate bounds of Thailand’s revered lese-majeste law. This law, under the austere Section 112 of Thailand’s Criminal Code, upholds a formidable reputation, strictly prohibiting any content deemed disrespectful towards the monarchy. As Ji Gamin set foot on Thai soil on…

Blue by Alain Ducasse: Bangkok’s Michelin Star Gem Shines in 2024

In the bustling urban sprawl of Bangkok, November 2024 rang in with a triumphant note for culinary enthusiasts. The illustrious Blue by Alain Ducasse has once again proven its mettle, clinching the coveted Michelin star for the fifth consecutive year, stretching from 2021 through to 2025. Nestled in the glitzy heart of ICONSIAM, it offers more than just delectable dishes; it presents diners with breathtaking views of the serene Chao Phraya River, blending modern French gastronomy with Thai elegance and hospitality. Since its grand unveiling in 2019, Blue by Alain Ducasse has set a sterling benchmark in sophisticated dining. Adorned with decor crafted by the internationally renowned Jouin Manku Agency, its interiors exude a timeless grace that complements its culinary offerings. Helmed by the visionary Executive Chef Wilfrid Hocquet, the restaurant dazzles with its contemporary French cuisine, crafted meticulously to juxtapose flavors with artistic precision and culinary innovation. The Michelin…

Controversial Deportation of Cambodian Political Activists by Thailand Sparks Global Outcry

In a swirling cascade of political chess, a mosaic of intrigue and outrage unfolded when supporters of the Candlelight Party, fervently rallying for local elections in Phnom Penh back in May 2022, became the epicenter of an international debacle. Fast forward to July 2023, the political landscape in Cambodia shifted tectonically when the party was unceremoniously banned from participating in national elections. The stage was set for a gripping saga of political opposition and suppression. Enter the enigma: a clandestine curtain of geopolitics where Thai authorities took a decisive yet controversial step by “forcibly” returning six Cambodian political opposition activists and a young child to Cambodia. The move drew the ire and red flags of Human Rights Watch (HRW), which fired off statements of concern, proclaiming the wrought potential for unfair trials and mistreatment await those sent back. Their appeal echoed across borders, urging the Cambodian authorities to drop the…

Sundae Kids Celebrate a Decade of Creativity: Discover Their ’10 Years of Lost and Found’ Exhibition at River City Bangkok

River City Bangkok has joyfully unveiled an extraordinary exhibition titled “Sundae Kids: 10 Years of Lost and Found.” Launched on November 27, 2024, this captivating anniversary event commemorates a decade of the iconic duo’s artistic journey. As visitors stroll through this immersive showcase, profound, thought-provoking questions beckon introspection, pushing them to ponder their personal narratives: What moments have you cherished, and what did you sacrifice in exchange? Would you revisit those milestones or venture into uncharted territory? At its heart, the exhibition chronicles the artistic evolution of Sundae Kids, offering a glimpse into their world through their signature illustrations, comics, animations, and their most impressive sculpture to date. For those wishing to bring a piece of this journey home, a selection of exclusive merchandise awaits. The exhibition unfolds across five uniquely crafted zones: Intro, Heart, Found, Lost, and Mail Room. Each area is thoughtfully curated to inspire reflection and self-discovery.…

The Mall Lifestore Food Expo 2024: A Global Celebration of Rice Flavor

There’s an incredible buzz brewing at The Mall Lifestore, and it’s got rice lovers and foodies alike counting down the days until they can experience a culinary journey like no other. In a delightful collaboration with the Ministry of Commerce, the Rice Department, the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives, not to forget Thai Life Insurance Public Company Limited and Thai Namthip Corporation Limited, this year’s “The Mall Lifestore Food Expo” promises something truly extraordinary. Dubbed “The Rice Journey,” the event showcases the boundless versatility and rich cultural tapestry of rice as it takes center stage. Set to be hosted from 28 November to 4 December 2024 at The Mall Lifestore Bangkapi, Thapra, and Ngamwongwan, and extending its run from 30 November to 8 December 2024 at The Mall Lifestore Bangkae, this beloved expo cements The Mall’s legacy as a leading food destination. Guests can anticipate an explosion of flavors as…

Yala Flood Chaos: Railway and Bus Services Disrupted Amid Relentless Rain

The persistent downpours have turned a typically bustling bus station in Yala Municipality into a scene of maritime chaos after relentless rainstorms swept through Yala and its neighboring southern provinces. The waterlogged images, shared widely on Bor Kor Sor 99’s Facebook account, depict an unexpected aquatic adventure where buses have become more akin to boats. The weather’s wrath hasn’t spared the region’s rail services either. In a bid to keep passengers safe and prevent any locomotion mishaps, the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) has announced a complete halt on a quartet of notable train routes leading to and from the country’s southern extremities. Warning whistles have been silenced for now, as the rain has gnawed at railway tracks, making them inoperable. Among the affected railway routes are the illustrious Special Express trains No. 31/32, which usually whisk passengers seamlessly between the capital Bangkok and the southern hub of Hat Yai.…

Deputy Governor Chaiyaporn Niyomkaew Leads Pattani Flood Response Amid Health Facility Closures

In the enchanting yet currently turbulent province of Pattani, the local community faces a daunting challenge as unrelenting floodwaters have disrupted daily life and health services. At the heart of this watery battle, Deputy Governor Chaiyaporn Niyomkaew dons a life jacket and fearlessly wades through the deluge, symbolizing the dogged determination and resilience of local officials and residents alike. In a dramatic turn of events, four key health facilities—Nong Chik, Yaring, Thung Yang Daeng, and Mae Lan hospitals—have been temporarily shut down. Rising floodwaters have swept into their compounds, prompting an urgent evacuation of patients to nearby field hospitals. As the Pattani and Sai Buri rivers swell beyond their banks, these closures are a stark reminder of nature’s unpredictable fury. Dr. Anurak Saraparb, head of the Pattani public health office, reassures the community that the evacuation is proceeding smoothly. Teams of dedicated doctors, nurses, and health personnel are actively engaged…

Baxter Kidney Care’s Green Nephrology Project: Leading Sustainable Kidney Care in Southeast Asia

In an inspiring testament to corporate responsibility and environmental stewardship, Baxter Kidney Care, also known as Vantive, has been distinguished by the American Chamber of Commerce (AMCHAM) for its pioneering Green Nephrology Project and the innovative Jom Recycle initiative. These projects are not only addressing the urgent issue of plastic waste from dialysis in Southeast Asia but also setting new standards in sustainable healthcare. Baxter Kidney Care stands as a leading force in home-based peritoneal dialysis (PD) within Thailand and Malaysia, actively collaborating with customers and local communities to transform plastic waste from dialysis medicine packaging into opportunities for ecological improvement. The accolades bestowed upon Baxter Kidney Care are twofold: the prestigious “Corporate Social Impact Recognition Awards 2024” for Thailand and the equally esteemed “AMCHAM Cares Award 2024” for Malaysia. At the helm of this successful journey is Paul Uthaichalanond, General Manager for Baxter Kidney Care (Vantive) Thailand, Malaysia, and…