- Thailand News
Early morning 4.0 magnitude earthquake shakes Sangkhla Buri district
Sangkhla Buri district witnessed an earthquake of 4.0 magnitude in the early hours of today. The tremors were felt across Kanchanaburi, a province in the west of Thailand. Kanrawee Sitthicheewapak, the director-general of the department, affirmed that the quake’s epicentre lay 6 kilometres beneath tambon Nong Lu and occurred at approximately 3.07am. The department’s Earthquake Observation Division attributed the quake…
- Thailand News
Thailand’s digital wallet loan bill yet to reach Council of State
Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai announced yesterday that a proposed bill, which aims to secure a loan of 500 billion baht for the digital wallet scheme, has not been presented to the Council of State yet. The revelation came after the digital wallet policy committee meeting, where numerous issues were discussed. Despite the Council of State’s readiness to scrutinise the…
- Thailand News
Thai military to engage Myanmar over repatriation delay
The Thai military is set to engage Myanmar over the delay in the repatriation of 41 Thai nationals who were recently rescued from illegal businesses in Laukkaing township. This was revealed today by Colonel Natee Thomsen, the commander of the Thap Chao Tak Taskforce of the Pha Mueang Force. Col. Natee plans to discuss the reasons behind the repatriation delay…
- Thailand News
Thai rights commission calls for immediate Gaza ceasefire
The Thai National Human Rights Commission (NHRCT) called for an immediate ceasefire in the conflict-ridden Gaza Strip. The commission’s plea comes amidst escalating violence which has resulted in the tragic loss of over 10,000 Palestinian civilian lives, with a significant proportion of victims being Arab women and children. This crisis has also led to the displacement of an estimated one…
- Thailand News
Myanmar earthquake: 6.4 magnitude hits, tremors felt in Thailand (video)
A significant earthquake of 6.4 magnitude jolted Myanmar at 8.37am today, as confirmed by the Earthquake Observation Division of the Thai Meteorological Department (TMD). The epicentre was noted to be around 100 kilometres in the northwest direction from the Mae Sai district of Chiang Rai. The United States Geological Survey (USGS) placed the epicentre of this seismic event approximately 76…
- Thailand News
Sadao checkpoint: Entrepreneurs urge continued operation
Songkhla-based entrepreneurs in the Sadao district appealed to the government to keep the old Sadao immigration checkpoint operational alongside the new one. The move aims to stimulate both trade and tourism with Malaysia. The appeal follows the circulation of rumours concerning the government’s intention to close the Sadao checkpoint in preference for the newly constructed border checkpoint. The discussion involved…
- Thailand News
Educational inequality sparks call for Thai government investment in human capital
The Equitable Education Fund (EEF) urged the Thai government to bolster investments in human capital to enhance the lives of students belonging to low-income families and curtail educational inequality. The call was made at the annual Equity Forum, held at the Bangkok Art and Culture Centre, to deliberate on the significance of such investments in addressing educational disparities. Kraiyos Patrawart,…
- Thailand News
Powering up the tracks: Red Line operator urged to spark commuter surge with enhanced feeder network
Red Line operator SRT Electrified Train Co was asked by the Transport Ministry to enhance its feeder network to drive an increase in the number of rail passengers within Bangkok. Surapong Piyachote, the Deputy Transport Minister, explained that the SRT Electrified Train Co, in conjunction with the Department of Rail Transport, has charted out plans for an integrated feeder network…
- Thailand News
TikTok Thai training twist: App eyes Thailand for next big move
TikTok, the popular video-sharing social media app, is considering establishing a training centre in Thailand. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin revealed this after meeting with the app’s executives during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in San Francisco. The intent is to utilise the platform’s popularity to promote Thai food and local products, often referred to as soft power. The 61…
- Phuket News
Phuket police apprehend duo for vandalising Russian tour buses
The tranquil island of Phuket was shaken as two men were seized by police for allegedly vandalising Russian tour buses. The duo was said to be receiving a bounty of 1,000 baht for each vehicle they damaged using a slingshot and ball bearings. They managed to wreak havoc on ten buses before their arrest. The arrests were made following a…
- Phuket News
Police crackdown on drugs and firearms disturbs peace in Phuket
The tranquil calm of Tambon Thepkrasattri in Phuket was shattered yesterday when Thalang police executed a successful operation against illicit activities. Two individuals were apprehended in the ongoing crackdown against drugs and firearms that has been plaguing the region. The first individual, Surasak “Sak” Nakklap, a 44 year old local from Moo 11, Thepkrasattri, was arrested in the vicinity of…
- Phuket News
Burglary busters: Thalang police nab duo, bringing relief to southern Thailand’s crime-weary community
In a series of successful home burglary crackdowns, Thalang police apprehended two suspects in Thepkrasattri, in southern Thailand. This recent breakthrough in the investigation came as a relief to the local community, which had been plagued by a spate of break-ins and robberies. The two men, 41 year old Anon “Nont” Somphet, a resident of Moo 4, Thepkrasattri, and 44…
- Thailand News
Thai government seeks urgent economic stimulus amid rising household debt
The Thai economy is in a dire state and in urgent need of a stimulus package to prevent further deterioration, according to the government. This stance arises amid ongoing discussions about the true state of the economy, with some expressing doubts about the actual need for the government’s proposed US$313 million handout scheme, which would necessitate a loan of US$15.6…
- Thailand News
Thai nationals to return from Myanmar amidst military-insurgent clashes
The return of 41 Thai nationals, marooned amidst skirmishes between Myanmar military and ethnic insurgent factions in Laukkai, a border town between China and Myanmar, is set to happen today, as stated by the prime minister. These individuals are part of a larger group of 164 Thai nationals, who were rescued by Myanmar officials from illegal employment or human trafficking…
- Business News
Popularity of online businesses in Thailand
Thailand is rapidly emerging as a digital commerce powerhouse. The growth is fueled by the country’s welcoming approach to global professionals through specialized visa programs, enhancing its appeal as an online business hub. The iGaming sector is a significant contributor to this trend, set to expand by 26.71% by 2027. The growth registered in the iGaming sector is due to…
- Phuket News
Phuket locals back proposal for extended nightlife venue operating hours
A bustling crowd of over 800 individuals gathered at Kathu Wittaya School in Phuket yesterday, participating in a public forum aimed at gauging sentiment regarding the extension of nightlife venue operating hours to 4am in designated zones. The proposal received unanimous approval from those in attendance, reflecting a collective inclination towards longer nightlife hours. The forum, presided over by Kathu…
- Thailand News
Smooth sailing: Suvarnabhumi Airport’s snazzy channels promise swift boarding for foreign jet-setters
Foreign passengers will soon experience expedited boarding at Suvarnabhumi International Airport, thanks to the introduction of automatic channels set to go live next month. The move aims to ease congestion at the airport, allowing for a smoother transit experience for travellers. Currently, the automatic processing at Suvarnabhumi is limited to travellers holding Thai, Hong Kong or Singaporean passports, as relayed…
- Phuket News
British national jailed in Phuket for illegal firearm possession
A British national has been apprehended by Chalong Police in Phuket, Thailand, under an arrest warrant issued by the Phuket Provincial Court for illegal firearm possession and its public display without consent or legitimate reason. The charge against Jamaal (surname not given) stems from an incident where he reportedly dropped a black Glock 19, described by the police as a…
- Thailand News
Thailand extends visa deadline for migrant workers from four nations
The Ministry of Interior in Thailand declared an extension for migrant workers from Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam. The extension allows them to remain in the country while applying for fresh visas and work permits. This decision, announced yesterday, is the Ministry’s response to two new regulations that were disclosed in the Royal Gazette on Monday. According to Traisuree Taisaranakul,…
- Thailand News
Thailand PM denies rumours of inviting Chinese police for tourist patrols
Thailand Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin quashed rumours about inviting Chinese police to patrol the nation’s tourist hotspots. The clarification comes in light of a recent uproar following remarks from the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) regarding such an arrangement. PM Srettha, during a visit to San Francisco, revealed that the country’s interest lies solely in collaborating with Chinese police for…
- Thailand News
Italian man plunges to death at Bangkok’s Sanam Pao BTS Station
An unexpected tragedy transpired at Bangkok’s Sanam Pao BTS Station in Phaya Thai district when a 34 year old Italian man plummeted to his death on Tuesday morning. The critical incident was confirmed by the local police force. According to Police Captain Charoen Sookmark of Phaya Thai police, the unnamed Italian man plummeted near the entrance ramp of the Skytrain…
- Thailand News
Massive manhunt underway for fugitive Chaowalit in Banthad mountain range
A massive manhunt involving over 400 police officers and state officials is underway for fugitive Chaowalit Thongduang, also known as Sia Paeng. The search is concentrated on the Banthad mountain range, according to National Police Chief, Police General Torsak Sukvimol, who briefed the press on Monday. The clothes discovered recently within the mountain range have tested positive for Chaowalit’s DNA,…
- Thailand News
Sino-Thai rail project advances with 13.3km track deal in Ayutthaya
The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) is set to ink a deal this month with Boonchai Panich (1979) Co Ltd, for the construction of a 13.3-kilometre rail track between Ban Pho and Phra Kaeo in Ayutthaya province. This development is a part of the ambitious Sino-Thai rail project stretching from Bangkok to Nong Khai. Nirut Maneephan, SRT’s governor, unveiled this…
- Thailand News
European tourists decline by 50% in Koh Kut amid global tensions
A drastic 50% drop in the number of European tourists visiting the Koh Kut district in Trat has been witnessed this year, as reported by the chairman of the Koh Kut administrative organisation. The chairman, who also operates a resort on the island, revealed that around 160,000 to 170,000 tourists visited the district last year, contributing to a revenue of…
- Phuket News
Phuket governor strengthens fight against rising illicit drug use
Phuket Governor Sophon Suwannarat recently reinforced the region’s dedication to combating illicit drug activity, asserting that the necessary measures are already in place at the local level to make considerable headway in this battle. Governor Sophon’s reinforcement came in the wake of the most recent police report highlighting the state of illicit drug use on the streets of Phuket. The…
- Thailand News
Thailand prepares for onset of cool season as northern front approaches
Thailand is bracing for a weather shift as a cool front from the north is set to lower temperatures starting tomorrow, signalling the onset of the cool season. This front, according to reports from the Thai Meteorological Department (TMD), was making its way over the region during the weekend, bringing with it strong winds. The shift in weather won’t be…
- Phuket News
Pawsitively purr-fect: Free pet healthcare initiative wags its tail in Phuket Town
Phuket Town, a bustling locale in Thailand, is now the site of an exciting initiative to provide free healthcare services for pets. The service, brought to the community by a mobile clinic, is extending an open invitation to residents to bring their beloved cats and dogs, as well as local strays, for comprehensive medical care. This free pet healthcare initiative…
- Thailand News
PTT Plc to turn Laem Chabang into Thailand’s first green port
PTT Plc, the Thai state-owned oil and gas company, is set to transform Laem Chabang deep-sea port into a pioneering example of green ports across Thailand. Noppadon Pinsupa, the Chief Operating Officer of PTT’s Downstream Petroleum Business Group, revealed plans yesterday for the development of the GPC International Terminal. The terminal, the victor in the bid for the third phase…
- Thailand News
Purrr-mission granted: Thailand’s Kaeng Krachan Dam hosts sanctioned fishing season for giant Mekong catfish
A sanctioned fishing season is underway at the Kaeng Krachan Dam in Phetchaburi, Thailand, where the Fisheries Department’s inland fisheries prevention and suppression unit is permitting the capture of up to 60 giant Mekong catfish. The season commenced on November 9 and will run through January 9, providing the total catch does not exceed the 60 fish limit before the…
- Thailand News
PTT reinvestment: Diversifying beyond oil and petrochemicals for future growth
National energy conglomerate PTT Plc has initiated a reinvestment phase, eyeing new ventures for future growth. This move follows the stagnation of the company’s traditional businesses, which are primarily centred around the oil refinery and petrochemical sectors. As these avenues have limited potential for enhancing future income, the company emphasises the need for reinvestment. PTT’s President and Chief Executive Officer,…