THAI.NEWS - Thailand Breaking News

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra brushed aside criticism that her father, former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, is wielding control over her and the new government. On Friday, she spoke following her father’s appearance at the “Vision for Thailand 2024” event the previous day, which drew a mixed audience of politicians, diplomats, and investors. During the event, Thaksin floated several suggestions aimed at rejuvenating the country’s sluggish economy. When queried whether Thaksin’s proposals mirror the new government’s policy direction, Ms. Paetongtarn clarified that they do not represent official government policies. She emphasized, “He was not declaring the government’s policy. He only expressed his vision. What he said was partly drawn from Pheu Thai’s policy.” Addressing criticism that Thaksin might be pulling the strings behind her administration, the Prime Minister was forthright. “I insist he is not trying to dominate. I can think for myself,” she stated confidently. Despite his lack of formal…

A landslide caused by heavy rain struck the Kata area in Phuket on Friday morning. (Photo: Phuket Info Center Facebook) PHUKET – In a devastating series of events, heavy rains triggered landslides across Phuket, resulting in the tragic loss of at least 10 lives, including eight foreigners. The disaster also caused extensive damage to over 50 homes, according to local authorities. Starting at 1 am on Friday, torrential downpours led to flash floods and landslides in multiple areas across this island paradise, said an official from the provincial office of the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation. The downpours didn’t discriminate, affecting both local and tourist communities alike. The hardest-hit regions were tambons Chalong and Karon in the Muang district, impacting approximately 250 households. The most catastrophic landslide struck Soi Patak 2 in tambon Karon, engulfing numerous properties, including a luxurious villa and a campsite for migrant workers. “It’s been…

In a bold move to combat intellectual property (IP) infringement, Thai authorities took a decisive step on Friday by destroying 1.2 million items of counterfeit goods, underscoring the government’s unwavering commitment to protecting intellectual property rights. The event, a high-profile operation, took place at the Army Air Defence Command base in the Don Muang district of Bangkok. At the helm of this significant initiative was Phumtham Wechayachai, the caretaker Commerce Minister, who presided over the destruction ceremony. Flanked by a cadre of senior ministry officials, ambassadors from various nations, and representatives of international organizations, Mr. Phumtham showcased Thailand’s relentless drive to put an end to IP violations. “We pay attention to preventing intellectual property infringement,” declared Mr. Phumtham, emphasizing the government’s proactive stance. The obliterated items had an estimated market value exceeding 325 million baht, a staggering amount testifying to the scale of the operation. This destruction isn’t just a…

Many areas in Nan province have been severely impacted by floods, with the mayor of Nan municipality declaring them the worst seen in a century. The Nan Provincial Public Relations Office has highlighted the extent of the devastation. In response, the Fine Arts Department has unveiled measures to shield Sukhothai Historical Park from the rising waters. They also confirmed that the renowned mural painting at Wat Phumin in Nan remains unharmed. The department’s Chiang Mai office staff have been diligently overseeing the flood situation at various historical sites throughout the northern region, especially in Nan province. The flooding has deluged several parts of Nan, notably the Muang district, home to numerous temples and significant historical landmarks. Affected sites include Wat Phumin, Wat Phra That Chang Kham Worawihan, Wat Hua Khuang, Wat Ming Muang, Nan City Weekend Night Market, Khum Chao Ratchabut, and Wat Ku Kham, according to department sources. Despite…

Madrid-born Chef Juan Ignacio García Racionero is set to infuse the seaside ambiance of Hua Hin Marriott Resort & Spa with the vibrant essence of Spain through his highly anticipated ‘Taste of Spain’ events. Scheduled for Friday, 6 September, and Saturday, 7 September, these culinary showcases will be hosted at the stunning seafront eatery, Big Fish & Bar. The maestro in the kitchen, currently helming the renowned LUZ Bangkok Tapas Bar at INNSiDE by Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit, promises a four-course feast that will take diners on a delightful gastronomic voyage through Spain’s most beloved flavors. To elevate the experience, optional wine pairings are available, ensuring a mouthwatering journey like no other. Chef Racionero’s impressive culinary journey reads like a map of Spain’s finest kitchens. His experience spans Michelin-starred restaurants such as Saddle, Diverxo—ranked among the top three in the ‘World’s 50 Best Restaurants’ in 2023—as well as celebrated establishments like…

In an era where climate change and soaring energy costs dominate global discourse, one Thai company is making waves with groundbreaking solutions that promise not just efficiency but a sustainable future. CORAL LIFE, a revolutionary force in energy-efficient building design, has emerged from Thailand to capture the world’s attention, securing its status on the global stage. A Global Spotlight on Thai Innovation When CORAL LIFE received an exclusive invitation to present at the United Nations’ Regional Workshop on Promoting Passive Cooling Strategies in Building Sector Policy and Practice, it was a monumental recognition. But why was CORAL LIFE, among countless global enterprises, singled out? What unique innovations in Passive Design make this company stand out in the crowded field of energy efficiency? The Answer Lies in CORAL LIFE’s Vision: ‘The Future is Clean, The Future is Cool’ As nations grapple with the dire consequences of global warming and the urgent…

Members of the Muslim Students Federation of Thailand gathered on a bustling Skywalk in Bangkok’s Pathumwan district on October 25, 2019. The occasion? To solemnly commemorate the 15th anniversary of the 2004 Tak Bai massacre. This heart-wrenching event has left an indelible mark on the collective memory of many. Fast forward to August 2024, the wheels of justice have taken a turn. The Narathiwat Provincial Court on a recent Friday accepted a formidable lawsuit against seven former senior officials. These officials are accused of heinous crimes, including murder, attempted murder, and unlawful detention in connection with the tragic events of 2004. However, two of the defendants were given a reprieve and acquitted of the charges. The legal action was instigated by the relatives of those who lost their lives or were injured during the incident, and the suit was timely filed on April 26. The sense of urgency was apparent,…

Returning to his homeland after 17 long years, former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra is back with fresh and audacious plans to propel Thailand into a new era of growth and prosperity. At the “Vision for Thailand” event hosted by Nation Group, Thaksin outlined a series of transformative visions designed to tackle the country’s most pressing issues and ignite a renaissance of development. From household debt to industrial restructuring, let’s delve into Thaksin’s dynamic blueprint for a thriving Thai future. Restructuring Household Debt: Thaksin’s first focal point centers on alleviating the burden of household debt, a significant issue for many Thai families. He proposes that the Finance Minister engage in negotiations with the Thai Bankers’ Association and the Bank of Thailand to undertake debt restructuring and “haircuts.” This strategy aims to relieve financial stress and restore economic stability for households across the nation. Legalising the Underground Economy: Recognizing the vast underground…

Customs officers have once again demonstrated their diligence as they inspected what seemed to be an innocuous lucky cat doll but turned out to be a clever concealment for methamphetamine at the bustling Bangkok Port in Khlong Toei district on Wednesday. This encounter is just the tip of the iceberg in a more elaborate inspection operation. Wednesday proved to be a pivotal day for the Seaport Interdiction Task Force (SITF). During their rigorous inspection at Bangkok Port, the officers unearthed a sinister surprise embedded within seemingly innocent decorative cement ware. Packed discreetly in two boxes containing animal stucco dolls and decorative fountains lay a whopping 30.5 kilogrammes of crystal methamphetamine. The street value of this illicit haul is a staggering 30.5 million baht, destined for shipment to Taiwan. The high stakes and ingenuity of traffickers are audacious, but the vigilance of law enforcement managed to thwart this attempt. The intercepted…

Chuan Leekpai sits attentively in Parliament on a bustling July day in 2023, absorbing the debate among lawmakers. Little does he know that the Democrat Party, a political stalwart once led by him, teeters on the brink of a significant decision: to join the coalition government. This measure, in Chuan’s eyes, symbolizes a downturn in the party’s fortunes. He’s awaited eagerly by the media, with cameras ready to capture his every word. (Photo: Chanat Katanyu) It’s a position he staunchly opposes. The former Democrat leader stands firm against the idea of aligning with the Pheu Thai-led government, a move he believes contradicts their primary values. During an interview with CU Radio at Chulalongkorn University, Chuan passionately reaffirms his stance. “I have to protect my dignity because I promised voters we would not join (Pheu Thai),” he asserts, his voice filled with conviction. Despite Chuan’s unyielding resistance, it seems that the…