Mitch Connor

Mitch is a Bangkok resident, having relocated from Southern California, via Florida in 2022. He studied journalism before dropping out of college to teach English in South America. After returning to the US, he spent 4 years working for various online publishers before moving to Thailand.
  • Thailand NewsThailand’s Education Ministry to launch enhanced O-Net Plus exam system

    Thailand’s Education Ministry to launch enhanced O-Net Plus exam system

    The Education Ministry of Thailand is gearing up to introduce the enhanced O-Net Plus exam system, a move that will rejuvenate equivalency testing and provide a benchmark for assessing teaching quality. Education Minister Police General Permpoon Chidchob affirmed the necessity of a benchmark to evaluate students’ knowledge and skill levels, a role that the National Institute of Educational Testing Service’s…

  • Thailand NewsThailand govt urges use of public transport amid rising PM2.5 pollution

    Thailand govt urges use of public transport amid rising PM2.5 pollution

    The escalating issue of PM2.5 pollution in Thailand has led the government to encourage the public to utilise public transportation, particularly in the most polluted areas. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin called for the public’s cooperation in the battle against the country’s increasing air pollution, which has seen a significant rise in recent days. “We must work on improving the situation…

  • Thailand NewsCabinet meeting to discuss constitutional amendment referendum parameters

    Cabinet meeting to discuss constitutional amendment referendum parameters

    Phumtham Wechayachai, the Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister, announced that next month’s Cabinet meeting will focus on the parameters required for a constitutional amendment referendum. Phumtham, who is also the head of a panel examining the referendum requirements for the charter amendment, has stated that the report will be submitted to Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin and the Cabinet for…

  • Thailand NewsRoyal Rainmaking Department struggles to control Bangkok PM2.5 levels

    Royal Rainmaking Department struggles to control Bangkok PM2.5 levels

    The Royal Rainmaking and Agricultural Aviation Department admits its efforts to tackle sky-high PM2.5 levels in Bangkok are being thwarted by the haze drifting from Myanmar. The department’s Director-General, Supit Pithaktham, sprung into action after Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s directive to combat PM2.5 air pollution actively. Supit revealed that despite their daily endeavours since December to produce artificial rain, the intensified…

  • Thailand NewsThailand tourists to get medical coverage of up to 500,000 baht

    Thailand tourists to get medical coverage of up to 500,000 baht

    The Thai government pledged unprecedented medical insurance and compensation packages, promising travellers a worry-free experience. Under the scheme, tourists will receive medical coverage of up to 500,000 baht in case of accidents, along with compensation of up to 1 million baht in the unfortunate event of death. At the campaign launch, Tourism and Sports Minister Sudawan Wangsuphakijkosol declared the initiative,…

  • Thailand NewsLaughing gas balloons burst bubble: Police bar raid in Chiang Mai

    Laughing gas balloons burst bubble: Police bar raid in Chiang Mai

    In a late-night operation in the Mueang district of Chiang Mai, police and officials carried out a raid on beer bars located near a boxing stadium on Loi Kroh Road. The establishments were alleged to be selling balloons filled with laughing gas to patrons and tourists. The raid, which involved about 100 police officers and consumer protection officials, resulted in…

  • Thailand NewsThailand and Australia consider mutual visa exemption

    Thailand and Australia consider mutual visa exemption

    In a bid to foster seamless travel and boost business ties, Thailand and Australia are contemplating a mutual visa exemption scheme. The proposition was tabled during a high-profile meeting between Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin and David Hurley, the Governor-General of Australia, at Government House yesterday. Amidst a visit to Thailand, Governor-General Hurley, accompanied by his spouse Linda, is set to…

  • Phuket NewsPhuket celebrates Valentine’s Day with mass weddings and LGBTQ+ inclusivity

    Phuket celebrates Valentine’s Day with mass weddings and LGBTQ+ inclusivity

    Phuket celebrated Valentine’s Day with a sprinkle of love and a dash of tradition as several couples took their vows and registered their marriages in various district offices across the city. In a nod to the significance of the day, officials showered the newlyweds with blessings and small tokens of appreciation, adding to the joyous atmosphere. In the well-known beach…

  • Thailand NewsBrain cell communication research key to Alzheimer’s treatment

    Brain cell communication research key to Alzheimer’s treatment

    Research into brain cell communication is seen as crucial in finding a treatment for brain-related diseases like Alzheimer’s, according to Nobel Laureate in Medicine, Professor Edvard Ingjald Moser. This research, he says, is particularly relevant given the global ageing populations and the need to enhance their quality of life. Speaking at the Japan-ASEAN Bridges event series in Bangkok, Prof. Moser…

  • Thailand NewsYearly rotational fishing ban begins in Gulf of Thailand

    Yearly rotational fishing ban begins in Gulf of Thailand

    The Department of Fisheries initiated its yearly cycle of rotational fishing ban in the Gulf of Thailand, extending until September. The restriction starts at the Khao Mong Lai coast in Prachuab Khiri Khan, extending to the Don Sak district in Surat Thani, effective from today until May 15. Following this, the prohibition will shift to the stretch between Khao Ta…

  • Thailand NewsThailand’s agriculture ministry seeks triple budget increase to boost farmer income

    Thailand’s agriculture ministry seeks triple budget increase to boost farmer income

    A request for a substantial budget increase to 411 billion baht for the upcoming fiscal year has been put forward by Thailand’s Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives. The proposed budget, which is over three times larger than the previous year’s allocation, aims to triple the income of farmers within the next four years. Chantanon Wannakejohn, serving as the Secretary-General to…

  • Thailand NewsBangkok battles severe air quality dip prompting remote work

    Bangkok battles severe air quality dip prompting remote work

    Bangkok’s air quality dipped severely yesterday, February 14, with an escalating level of fine particulate matter, PM2.5, recorded in most districts. This hazardous air quality led the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) to urge both state agencies and private entities to facilitate remote working for their personnel today and tomorrow. According to an official statement issued by Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt,…

  • Thailand NewsFinger-lickin’ love: KFC unveils fried chicken rings for Valentine’s Day

    Finger-lickin’ love: KFC unveils fried chicken rings for Valentine’s Day

    Love stories, laughter, and shared moments have been filling buckets of joy for dating and loving couples at KFC Thailand for 40 years. These sweet moments have become the secret ingredient in every crispy KFC meal, creating memories as finger-lickin’ good as the chicken itself. In an exclusive celebration of this heartwarming 40-year love affair, KFC and Colonel Sanders invite…

  • Thailand NewsPM Srettha urges citizens to dress yellow on Mondays in homage to Thai King

    PM Srettha urges citizens to dress yellow on Mondays in homage to Thai King

    Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin ignited a national fervour, urging Thai citizens to pay homage to His Majesty the King’s 72nd birthday. Addressing the nation post-Tuesday’s Cabinet summit, the 61 year old Thai PM, clad in golden hues, disclosed plans for a weekly ritual. “In jubilant celebration of His Majesty’s sixth-cycle milestone on July 28. I’ve directed civil servants to don…

  • Phuket NewsChinese woman arrested in Phuket for illegally housing lion cub

    Chinese woman arrested in Phuket for illegally housing lion cub

    Phuket police apprehended a Chinese woman on the accusation of illegally housing a lion cub in her hotel room. She came under scrutiny following allegations of her showcasing the juvenile lion daily at her coffee shop. Authorities from the Natural Resources and Environmental Crime Division (NRECD), along with local police and wildlife officials, inspected the coffee shop located in the…

  • Thailand NewsRed-shirt leader Nattawut Saikua urges lawmakers to pass bills for 2010 crackdown victims

    Red-shirt leader Nattawut Saikua urges lawmakers to pass bills for 2010 crackdown victims

    Nattawut Saikua, a key figure in the United Front for Democracy Against Dictatorship (UDD), intensified his campaign for justice by urging Pheu Thai Party executives to throw their weight behind two pivotal bills. These bills, spearheaded by ruling party Deputy Leader Chousak Sirinil, are poised to revolutionise the quest for accountability. The proposed legislation encompasses an organic act targeting the…

  • Phuket NewsPhuket police launch safety initiative to curb rising youth crime

    Phuket police launch safety initiative to curb rising youth crime

    Phuket City Police Station yesterday buzzed with activity as officers from the Phuket Provincial Police convened for the inauguration of a new safety and anti-crime initiative set to run until February 22. The gathering was an imposing show of unity, with representatives from various sectors of law enforcement, military personnel, administrative officials, volunteers, and media personnel all present. Spearheaded by…

  • Phuket NewsClean getaway: Woman nabbed for laundry shop theft in Phuket

    Clean getaway: Woman nabbed for laundry shop theft in Phuket

    The tranquillity of Phuket’s Phra Metta Road was shattered after a local laundry shop fell victim to an audacious theft. A 30 year old woman was apprehended by the Patong Police for pilfering a bag of laundered clothes from the TOKI WASH laundry shop. The arrest took place in a rented room on Soi Manee Thong, off Ratchapathanusorn Road, where…

  • Phuket NewsPhuket’s waste warriors launch innovative ‘waste bank’ to tackle trash troubles

    Phuket’s waste warriors launch innovative ‘waste bank’ to tackle trash troubles

    Phuket City Municipality forged ahead with innovative steps to navigate the growing waste management crisis, introducing the Samakkhi Samkong Community Waste Bank scheme. The Mayor of Phuket Town, Saroj Angkhanapilas, underscored the necessity of proficient solid waste management during the announcement of this community-centric initiative. He hailed the inauguration of the community waste bank as a remarkable stride in the…

  • Thailand NewsThai government announces five-day weekend for Songkran holiday

    Thai government announces five-day weekend for Songkran holiday

    Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin declared Friday, April 12 a special government holiday, amplifying the Songkran celebrations with a five-day weekend. The decision made a full two months ahead of the festival, aims to provide ample time for both individuals and businesses to prepare for the festivities. The 61 year old Thai PM-cum-finance minister expressed his desire for the Ministry of Tourism…

  • Thailand NewsActivist Tantawan arrested for challenging royal motorcades

    Activist Tantawan arrested for challenging royal motorcades

    A 22 year old activist attracted attention when she found herself in the news for honking her car horn at a royal motorcade on February 4. Following this incident, Tantawan Tuatulanon conducted an opinion poll on February 10, questioning if royal motorcades were a cause of traffic issues. This action led to charges being filed against her for causing a…

  • Thailand NewsThai police boost security for Valentine’s Day to protect minors

    Thai police boost security for Valentine’s Day to protect minors

    Valentine’s Day in Thailand will see heightened security measures at motels and nightlife venues, as announced by the Royal Thai Police (RTP). This action comes as a bid to protect minors from potential risks. RTP Deputy Spokesperson Police Colonel Chanchai Rattanapanich revealed on Tuesday that national police chief Police General Torsak Sukvimol prioritised the safety of the youth on Valentine’s…

  • Thailand NewsChon Buri’s Wonnapha Beach makeover sparks online debate

    Chon Buri’s Wonnapha Beach makeover sparks online debate

    The renovation of Wonnapha Beach in Chon Buri province sparked significant debate among the online community. The popular tourist destination, situated in the town of Saensuk, has undergone a facelift that has seen parts of its sandy stretch replaced with precast concrete slabs, resembling large tiles. This development has left little of the original beach visible, leading to a divided…

  • Thailand NewsBeware, Valentine’s Day romance scams on the rise

    Beware, Valentine’s Day romance scams on the rise

    With Valentine’s Day fast approaching, the Royal Thai Police (RTP) issued a warning to the public, particularly women, urging caution against falling victim to cyber criminals preying on the lovestruck. In the age of digital love, the romance scam has become a sinister ploy, requiring minimal effort from fraudsters. All it takes is a fake social media profile, some attractive…

  • Phuket NewsPhuket governor calls for probe into Freedom Beach vendors

    Phuket governor calls for probe into Freedom Beach vendors

    Phuket Governor Sophon Suwannarat recently instructed the local branch of the Royal Forest Department to prepare a comprehensive report to detail why vendors have been permitted to ply their trade at Freedom Beach, and also to account for any revenues collected from these vendors. This directive emerged from a meeting convened at the Phuket Provincial Hall, after an inspection of…

  • Thailand NewsBMA proposes 50km/h speed limit on 40 roads in Bangkok

    BMA proposes 50km/h speed limit on 40 roads in Bangkok

    The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) is set to lodge a request with the Metropolitan Police Bureau (MPB), advocating for the imposition of a 50 kilometres-per-hour speed limit on 40 roads in central Bangkok and key residential areas. The move is primarily aimed at reducing traffic accidents and enhancing road safety, according to Thaiphat Tanasombatkul, the director-general of BMA’s Traffic and…

  • Thailand NewsThailand govt cuts informal debts by 670 million baht in two months

    Thailand govt cuts informal debts by 670 million baht in two months

    The Government of Thailand has slashed the nation’s informal debts by 670 million baht (US$18.69 million) in a span of two months, successfully resolving 102,000 out of the 140,000 reported cases. This significant reduction is part of an initiative to alleviate the household debt burden. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, who also holds the position of Finance Minister, attributed this progress…

  • Thailand NewsThailand to reassess recent reduction in meth penalties

    Thailand to reassess recent reduction in meth penalties

    Thailand Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin affirmed yesterday that the government is open to reevaluating a recently announced policy which reduces penalties for individuals found with five or fewer methamphetamine pills. This statement follows the public disapproval that has arisen in response to the law, signed by Public Health Minister Cholnan Srikaew on February 9, which determines that anyone found with…

  • Thailand NewsRoyal Thai Air Force to open facilities and golf courses to public

    Royal Thai Air Force to open facilities and golf courses to public

    The Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) decided to open select facilities and golf courses to the public under certain conditions, according to the commander-in-chief, ACM Punpakdee Pattanakul. This decision follows a request from Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin to use the Kantarat Golf Course, situated between Don Mueang International Airport’s runways, and access other RTAF properties for state project development. The…

  • Thailand NewsThai PM defends 10,000-baht digital wallet scheme amid criticism

    Thai PM defends 10,000-baht digital wallet scheme amid criticism

    The implementation of the controversial 10,000-baht digital wallet scheme was defended yesterday by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. This came following a statement by Move Forward Party Deputy Leader Sirikanya Tansakul, suggesting the government develop a backup plan due to the scheme’s uncertain future. Tansakul pointed out that the scheme’s success hinges on the decision of the government’s digital wallet policy…