Skip to content
View in the app

A better way to browse. Learn more.
ASEAN NOW

A full-screen app on your home screen with push notifications, badges and more.

To install this app on iOS and iPadOS
  1. Tap the Share icon in Safari
  2. Scroll the menu and tap Add to Home Screen.
  3. Tap Add in the top-right corner.
To install this app on Android
  1. Tap the 3-dot menu (⋮) in the top-right corner of the browser.
  2. Tap Add to Home screen or Install app.
  3. Confirm by tapping Install.

Thailand News

All the latest news stories from Thailand are written in English. Fresh news and stories from around the kingdom brought to you daily.

Thailand proposes higher deposits for tour operators

Thailand's Department of Tourism is proposing substantially higher security deposits for tour operators, reversing reduced rates introduced during the Covid-19 downturn.

Under the draft rules, deposits for general tour businesses would rise from THB60,000 to THB200,000. The department says the changes reflect the tourism recovery and current economic conditions, while aiming to improve protection for tourists.

The Tourism Business and Guide Committee approved the draft regulation in principle at a meeting on 13 August 2026. It is now open to a 45-day public consultation running from 17 August to 30 September.

Proposed deposit levels

The proposed "Ministerial Regulation Prescribing the Amount of Security Deposits BE..." would increase required deposits across all four tour-business categories.

Specific-area tour businesses would see their deposit rise from THB3,000 to THB10,000. Domestic tour businesses would move from THB15,000 to THB50,000.

For inbound tour businesses, which organise trips for overseas visitors arriving in Thailand, the required amount would increase from THB30,000 to THB100,000. General tour businesses would face the largest cash requirement, rising from THB60,000 to THB200,000.

The lower existing rates were brought in as pandemic relief when visitor numbers collapsed and operators faced severe pressure. With tourism activity recovering, the department says it wants requirements that are more suitable for the present market.

The department has asked operators in every category, members of the public and other stakeholders to submit views through the central legal consultation system. Responses will be compiled before the ministerial regulation is finalised.

Existing licence holders would receive a one-year transition period after the regulation takes effect to provide any additional deposit required. Operators with fewer than 180 days left on their licence, and no intention of renewing it, could retain their current deposit until the licence expires.

Join the discussion?


31 August 2026
Georgealbert
Georgealbert

Pattaya Waterfront faces demolition or legal redesign

Pattaya's long-stalled Waterfront project at the foot of Pratumnak Hill could face demolition or a legally required redesign, depending on a pending decision by the Land Department over its land title documents.

Pattaya Mayor Poramet Ngampichet said the city is still waiting for the department to rule on the documents, following an earlier opinion by the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC). The outcome will determine the next legal step for the unfinished building in Pattaya.

The development has returned to public attention after the CSI LA page raised the matter online, prompting renewed debate on social media.

Land ruling will decide the next step

Poramet said Pattaya City had submitted the matter to the Land Department for consideration within its authority and is now awaiting the result.

If the department concludes that the land title documents were improperly issued, the city will act under the law by ordering the project owner to demolish the building. Should the owner fail to comply, Pattaya City can begin demolition proceedings itself and seek to recover the costs from the owner.



However, if the documents are found to have been lawfully issued, the owner will have to submit the building plans for review under building-control laws.

That could require alterations to sections which do not meet legal requirements, potentially including reducing the structure's height or changing its design to bring it into compliance.

Poramet said there are therefore two main possible outcomes: demolition or alterations to make the building lawful. He said the city is ready to proceed as soon as the Land Department reaches a conclusion and wants the long-running matter resolved quickly.

Building remains off limits

The mayor also warned that the Waterfront building is incomplete and remains subject to an order prohibiting its use. Vehicles and people should not be allowed inside because this could create a danger, he said.

Pattaya City has already taken legal action over reports that cars and motorcycles had entered the project, to use it as a car park.

On 23 February 2026, a person authorised by Pattaya City filed a complaint at Pattaya City Police Station after information circulated on social media on 22 February that a group of vehicles had parked on the lower area and second floor of the Waterfront building.

The complaint states that the building is covered by Pattaya City's order under the Building Control Act BE 2522, which prohibits use of, or allowing people to use, a building that may be dangerous.

Police at Pattaya City Police Station accepted the complaint for further legal action against the company owning the project and related parties and legal proceedings are ongoing.


Pictures courtesy of Matichon

Join the discussion?


31 August 2026
Georgealbert
Georgealbert

Nong Khai police deny claim officers took suspect's gold

Nong Khai City Police have denied an allegation that officers asked a 22-year-old conscript accused of burgling an Air Force residence in Bangkok to hand over gold in return for lesser charges.

The clarification, issued on 30 August 2026, follows the arrest of Piyapong, 22, from Chanthaburi, and his 22-year-old girlfriend Sukanya, from Ubon Ratchathani, after a burglary at military accommodation in Sai Mai, Bangkok.

Burglary suspect makes claim after arrest

The burglary was reported to Sai Mai Police Station on 24 August after valuables were taken from an Air Force officer's residence in Khlong Thanon, Sai Mai district. CCTV footage reportedly showed the suspect entering a neighbouring officer's home.

Investigators identified Piyapong as an Army conscript stationed at that neighbouring residence. He had allegedly left the area after the offence.

Air Force military police searched his room and seized 68 boxed amulets, 11 commemorative coins, seven amulets with cord necklaces, and Buddha images of Luang Pho Sot and Luang Pho Sothon.



At about 8pm on 28 August, Piyapong returned with Sukanya. Police said a further 27 items matching the victim's report were found, including cash totalling 89,570 baht, gold and silver jewellery, watches, a Samsung S23 phone, bank documents, gold-shop receipts and bags, diamond jewellery, amulets and other property. The arrest was made at the Kantharat Hall health park.

Piyapong allegedly admitted stealing from the residence but claimed that Nong Khai officers at the Nong Song Hong checkpoint took items after stopping him while he was driving a pickup from Nong Khai to Udon Thani on 24 August.

He said he had run a red light and admitted that gold found in the vehicle came from the burglary. He alleged that officers took six baht weight and two salung of gold bars, returned three baht weight and two salung, and said this would reduce the case against him.

He also alleged that 15 laptops and more than 140 mobile phones, which he said belonged to an officer he worked for and were not burglary evidence, were taken without a seizure record. He was prosecuted for driving while using drugs and fined 3,500 baht by a court, he said.

Police say gold was seized for testing

Nong Khai City Police said no officer asked for gold or sought a share of seized property. It said officers seized six bars of gold as evidence, kept them for investigation, and took them to a gold shop to establish whether they were genuine.

Police cited an official letter dated 29 August 2026 requesting the shop's assistance in examining and certifying the material.

Piyapong and Sukanya were handed to Sai Mai investigators for proceedings on allegations of jointly stealing from a dwelling or receiving stolen property.


Pictures courtesy of ThaiRath

Join the discussion?


31 August 2026
Georgealbert
Georgealbert

Hong Kong traveller reports alleged theft on Bangkok flight

A Hong Kong traveller has accused a mainland Chinese passenger of attempting to steal cash from his suitcase on a flight to Bangkok, after allegedly finding the man searching through the bag.

The confrontation was recorded by the traveller and later circulated widely on social media. Police investigation remains ongoing after the flight arrived at Suvarnabhumi Airport.

Suitcase allegedly taken from overhead locker

The traveller said the other passenger removed his suitcase from the overhead compartment, carried it to his own seat and opened it in a search for cash.

He noticed what was happening and challenged the man. The traveller said it was the second time in two months that he had encountered a theft on a flight.


Picture courtesy of X @RonallChersan

After landing at Suvarnabhumi, he contacted officials and accompanied the passenger to police, saying he wanted the matter formally pursued.

During the walk to police, the alleged thief asked whether making a report would be a waste of time. The traveller refused to let the matter go, telling him to continue walking so officers could deal with it.

The passenger then offered to pay for anything the traveller had lost. The traveller and officials pointed out that police were waiting nearby.

Passenger denies taking anything

The accused passenger denied stealing anything and suggested he might simply have picked up the wrong suitcase. He argued that the traveller had not actually lost anything.

The traveller rejected that explanation, saying his suitcase looked entirely different from the other man's bag. He said the cash had already been visible, and accused the passenger of trying but failing to take it.

The exchange continued when the traveller asked the man whether he was from China. The man confirmed he was, prompting the traveller to tell him: "You have lost face for Chinese people abroad."

The passenger again denied taking anything and described the complaint as a waste of time. The traveller replied that he had time, adding that the man could otherwise steal from somebody else on another occasion.

Reminder for passengers arriving in Thailand

For foreigners visiting or living in Thailand, the case is a reminder to keep passports, cash, bank cards and other valuables in a small bag kept close by during a flight, rather than leaving them unattended in an overhead locker.

Anyone who believes property has been tampered with on arrival can alert airline staff, airport officials or police before leaving the airport. In this case, the traveller chose to report the matter immediately after arriving at Suvarnabhumi.

ScreenRecording_08-30-2026 17-39-35_1.mp4

Join the discussion?


31 August 2026
Georgealbert
Georgealbert

Nene Royal stops dispute at Phuket's Naka Market

A video posted on 29 August shows Phuket singer Nene Royal halting a live performance at Naka Market after a dispute appeared to be developing among foreign spectators.

Nene, whose full name is Rattikan Amloy, is a 16-year-old Thai artist from Phuket who has become known following her appearance on America's Got Talent. The footage was shared by the Facebook page of Satit Pituetcha.

The clip shows the singer performing and playing music at the market, where she is a regular performer, when foreign members of the audience began arguing and appeared ready to fight.

Singer warns audience to stop

According to Satit, Nene told those involved repeatedly to stop and warned that she would end the performance immediately if they did not.

She then moved to stop playing. One foreign spectator asked her to continue, and Nene told the fan that she would perform one final song.

Satit said Nene had gained extensive experience through performing music and other activities before achieving her present success. He described her response as strong, powerful, decisive and gentle.

What it means for foreign visitors

Naka Market is a well-known evening market in Phuket, where visitors and residents often gather for food, shopping and live entertainment. The video is a reminder for foreign tourists and expats that performers and market operators may stop an event if a disturbance develops among spectators.

For anyone attending live music, markets or other crowded public venues in Thailand, the practical message is straightforward: disputes can quickly affect everyone nearby, including performers and other customers. Avoiding confrontation and stepping away from an argument can prevent a minor disagreement from disrupting a public event.

A regular Phuket market performance

The footage offers a glimpse of Nene's earlier performances in Phuket before her recognition on the international television stage. Satit said the Naka Market appearance was among the experiences that helped shape her as an artist.

His post praised the teenager's ability to take control of the moment without escalating the confrontation, while still responding politely to an audience member who wanted the music to continue.

AQNT_2icsMTnyBNzPtY-vUp0nsRXM3IfhM9y8hMDJyEMFY6o-zSOZR2zcQUx6KgVeswHST_167lL4aaEQB-0_QmFvnyiDj9LlOIyP37j9Q.mp4

Related stories

Phuket-teenager-nene-royal-reaches-AGT-final

Join the discussion?


31 August 2026
Georgealbert
Georgealbert

Pattaya crackdown ahead of USS Abraham Lincoln visit

Police detained 25 woman during a late-night prostitution crackdown in Pattaya on 29 August, as authorities prepare for the arrival of about 5,000 US military personnel in Chon Buri next week.

The USS Abraham Lincoln is due to dock at Laem Chabang Port from 2 to 6 September. Its personnel are expected to spend time in the area for rest and recuperation, according to Rear Admiral Surasant Kongsiri, a Ministry spokesperson.

Patrols intensified in tourist areas

More than 20 officers from Pattaya City Police, Tourist Police, Immigration Police and Chon Buri Provincial Social Development and Human Security Office joined the operation.

They carried out checks along Pattaya Beach and other public areas commonly used by residents and tourists. Officers reported finding 18 Thai nationals, five Lao nationals and two Ugandan nationals among the 25 offenders.



Police said patrols would become more frequent and more intensive, particularly on the beachfront and in tourist zones regarded as vulnerable to illegal activity.

Sailors to receive Thai law briefing

Rear Admiral Surasant said the US personnel would not be taking part in joint military exercises or operations during the port call.

Instead, the visit is limited to rest and recuperation. Sailors and Marines will be briefed on Thai laws and conduct requirements before going ashore.

Thai police and military police will oversee the visit alongside US military police responsible for their own personnel.

Police are also focusing on preventing the exploitation of children and young people. They said particular attention would be given to the street children and beggars who could be vulnerable to exploitation.


Pictures courtesy of Daily News

Join the discussion?


31 August 2026
Georgealbert
Georgealbert

Thailand cuts household electricity rates from September

Thailand's new electricity tariff structure will take effect with September 2026 bills, cutting the average rate for all customer groups and introducing lower charges for households using less power.

Government spokeswoman Rachada Dhanadirek said the measures were intended to ease living costs by tackling underlying electricity expenses and reshaping tariffs in a sustainable way.

Under the new residential pricing system, the first 200 units of electricity used each month will cost no more than THB3.00 per unit. Consumption from units 201 to 400 will be charged at THB4.1584 per unit, while usage from the 401st unit onwards will cost THB4.3583 per unit.

Lower-use households targeted

The progressive structure is designed to make bills better reflect actual consumption, with lower-use households receiving the greatest benefit.

Across all customer categories, the average electricity tariff, including the Ft charge, will fall from THB3.95 to THB3.86 per unit. That represents a reduction of 9 satang per unit.

The government will also separate the burden linked to public electricity charges from consumers' bills, producing a further reduction of THB0.0634 per unit.

More than 21 million households are expected to benefit from the changes, with total savings estimated at THB18 billion.

"The principle is clear: people who use less electricity should pay less, and actual residents must be able to access the entitlement. The government wants this reduction in electricity charges to have a tangible effect on people's bills while making the tariff structure fair and sustainable over the long term," Rachada said.


Picture courtesy of The Nation

Join the discussion?


31 August 2026
Georgealbert
Georgealbert

Aranyaprathet mall gold robbery suspect caught

Thai police have arrested a 36-year-old man accused of robbing a gold shop inside a shopping mall in Aranyaprathet, Sa Kaeo, while armed with a handgun and carrying a homemade smoke bomb.

Arnon Udtiram was detained by armed response teams, on 30 August 2026, with investigators saying he confessed to planning the robbery in advance. Police recovered about 50 gold necklaces and bracelets allegedly hidden in woodland beside a railway line.

The robbery took place on 27 August at a Yaowarat gold shop in the Sa Kaeo border district. The suspect is accused of taking gold jewellery with a total weight of 72 baht, valued at about 5 million baht.

Suspect held on armed robbery warrant

The Sa Kaeo Provincial Court issued arrest warrant No. 233/2569 for Arnon on 30 August, charging him with armed robbery and using a vehicle to facilitate the offence, remove stolen property or avoid arrest.



Police also obtained search warrant No. 131/2569 and searched a house in Moo 9, Tha Kham subdistrict, Aranyaprathet district.

The operation was overseen by Pol Lt Gen Nattasak Chawanasai, commissioner of the Central Investigation Bureau, Pol Maj Gen Pattanasak Bupphasuwan, commander of the Crime Suppression Division, Pol Col Pongpanot Chukaew, deputy CSD commander, and Pol Col Netiwit Thanasitnitikul, superintendent of CSD Division 2.

Police say robbery was well planned

According to police, the masked robber entered the mall carrying a handgun and threw a homemade smoke bomb in front of the gold shop before taking numerous necklaces and bracelets.

He then fled on a motorcycle that had been parked in readiness.

During questioning, Arnon admitted obtaining a motorcycle for the crime and repainting it to alter its appearance. He also said he had bought clothing and a wig to conceal his identity.

Police said that after the robbery he hid the motorcycle and stolen gold in wooded ground alongside the railway, before returning to his home and behaving normally.

Investigators from CSD Division 2, Sa Kaeo Provincial Police Investigation Division and Aranyaprathet Police Station tracked the alleged escape route and gathered evidence before identifying Arnon as the suspect.

The suspect, recovered property and other evidence have been handed to investigators at Aranyaprathet Police Station for further legal proceedings.


Pictures courtesy of ThaiRath

Related story

Gold-shop-robbery-sparks-police-hunt-in-Aranyaprathet

Join the discussion?


30 August 2026


Georgealbert
Georgealbert

Tourist fee survey for foreigners available only in Thai

Thailand has opened an online public hearing on its proposed 450-baht tourism fee for foreign arrivals, but the 27-question survey is available only in Thai despite seeking views from overseas visitors.

The consultation, hosted on the Council of State's Digital Government Development Agency law website, (ข้อมูลการรับฟัง) remains open until 28 September. Respondents can submit answers as representatives of state agencies, private entities or members of the public.

Translation hurdle for foreign respondents

The webpage has a language option in its top-right corner, but it cannot be clicked. A Thai-language message instructs users to right-click and ask their browser to translate the page instead.

That may be manageable for users with browser translation tools enabled, but it requires visitors to identify the feature and ensure the translation is working before navigating what the Bangkok Post described as a dense and unintuitive form.

The central opening question asks whether respondents agree with collecting a fee from foreign tourists to support tourism management and development, including insurance provision while they travel in Thailand.

Other questions ask respondents to agree or disagree with legal definitions, including "foreign tourist", land and maritime checkpoints, and operators. The proposed definition of a foreign tourist is a non-Thai temporarily entering Thailand for travel without generating employment or compensation.

Questions on exemptions and payment

Question 10 allows multiple answers on whether the fee should apply to groups including diplomatic passport holders and work permit holders, although these groups would not ordinarily be classed as tourists.

The questionnaire also asks whether the chairman of the National Tourism Policy Committee should act as the authority under the proposed announcement. It does not offer a "don't know" or "no opinion" choice alongside agree and disagree.

Two questions have more immediate practical relevance for travellers. Question 14 asks whether visitors should receive a 30-day grace period when re-entering Thailand after paying on their first arrival, while question 17 asks which payment methods respondents prefer.

No implementation date for the proposed 450-baht levy was given in the consultation details.

Potentially billions for tourism fund

The Ministry of Tourism and Sports has said Thailand aims to restore tourism revenue to its pre-pandemic level of 3 trillion baht within four years. Reaching that target would require tourist numbers approaching pre-2020 levels of around 40 million annually.

Thailand recorded 33 million visitors last year. At 450 baht per arrival, that number would have raised 14.8 billion baht for the tourism fund had the levy been in force.

Weerasak Kowsurat, adviser to Deputy Prime Minister Suphajee Suthumpun and chairman of a visitor economy development working group, said: "We need to listen to as many perspectives as possible in order to implement the foreign tourism fee efficiently."

Related story

Thailand-seeks-foreign-views-on-450-baht-tourism-fee

Join the discussion?


30 August 2026
Georgealbert
Georgealbert

Bangkok bar apologises after woman's head shaved

A host bar in Bangkok's Pinklao area has apologised after a woman had her head shaved over an alleged unpaid bill of nearly 60,000 baht.

The incident happened on August 25 and became public after Thai social activist Chalida Phalamat, known as Ton Aor Pen Nueng, shared details on TikTok. The venue later contacted Chalida to explain its side of the case.

Agreement signed instead of police report

According to Chalida, the bar said the woman had accumulated a bill of almost 60,000 baht but could not pay. It also alleged that she had used a fake identification card to enter the venue and had previously left other entertainment outlets without paying.


Picture courtesy of Workpoint News

Rather than filing a police complaint, the manager reportedly had the woman sign an agreement allowing her hair to be cut and shaved in return for 3,000 baht. That amount was deducted from her drinks and service bill before her head was shaved.

The bar said the hair was given to one of its workers for donation, although it did not say where it would be donated.

Activist questions consent and response

Chalida questioned why the bar did not report the alleged unpaid bill to police and why the woman's head was shaved so extensively.

She said she understood that the business faced costs and that its employees depended on their income, but believed the response had gone too far. She also raised concerns that the woman's agreement may have been made under pressure.

Online reaction was divided. Some people said the bar's response was excessive, while others considered it justified.

Bar promises help after apology

The venue has apologised through Chalida and acknowledged that its manager acted rashly in anger. According to Chalida, the bar intends to contact the woman's family to discuss possible assistance following the incident.

Chalida has also asked social development officials to check the woman's living conditions and wellbeing. Her age remains unclear and she may be a minor.

She urged businesses dealing with unpaid bills or suspected fraud to contact police instead of imposing their own punishment.

Lj05zNVtTqFJA7aVT5jw5TvoEbqzPOzfuYwtIdFUSzw.mp4

Join the discussion?


30 August 2026
Georgealbert
Georgealbert

Bank of Thailand sets 18 bank holidays for 2027

The Bank of Thailand (BOT) has announced 18 nationwide holidays for financial institutions in 2027, producing eight long weekends of at least three days.

The longest closure will be from Saturday, May 1, to Tuesday, May 4, combining the weekend, the substitute holiday for National Labour Day and Coronation Day. Songkran bank holidays will run for three consecutive days, April 13-15.

For foreigners living in or visiting Thailand, the calendar is useful for planning branch transactions, bank paperwork, property payments and other tasks requiring in-person service. The announced dates apply to financial institutions; travellers and residents should check directly with their bank for arrangements at individual branches.

Nationwide bank holidays in 2027

Friday, January 1: New Year's Day.

Monday, February 22: Substitute holiday for Makha Bucha Day, which falls on Sunday, February 21.

Tuesday, April 6: Chakri Memorial Day, commemorating King Buddha Yodfa Chulalok the Great and the Chakri dynasty.

Tuesday, April 13: Songkran Day.
Wednesday, April 14: Songkran holiday.
Thursday, April 15: Songkran holiday.

Monday, May 3: Substitute holiday for National Labour Day, which falls on Saturday, May 1.

Tuesday, May 4: Coronation Day.

Thursday, May 20: Visakha Bucha Day.

Thursday, June 3: Birthday of Her Majesty Queen Suthida Bajrasudhabimalalakshana.

Monday, July 19: Substitute holiday for Asalha Bucha Day, which falls on Sunday, July 18.

Wednesday, July 28: His Majesty the King's Birthday.

Thursday, August 12: Birth anniversary of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother and National Mother's Day.

Wednesday, October 13: Navamindra Maharaj Day.

Monday, October 25: Substitute holiday for Chulalongkorn Day, which falls on Saturday, October 23.

Monday, December 6: Substitute holiday for the December 5 observances: the birth anniversary of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej The Great, Thailand's National Day and National Father's Day.

Friday, December 10: Constitution Day.

Friday, December 31: New Year's Eve.

Eight extended breaks for banks

For institutions on a normal Monday-to-Friday schedule, the long weekends are:

January 1-3: New Year.
February 20-22: Makha Bucha.
May 1-4: National Labour Day and Coronation Day.
July 17-19: Asalha Bucha.
October 23-25: Chulalongkorn Day.
December 4-6: December 5 observances.
December 10-12: Constitution Day.
December 31-January 2, 2028: New Year's Eve and the weekend.
August 12 remains the annual holiday for Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother's birth anniversary and National Mother's Day.

Regional closures and discontinued holidays

Islamic Bank of Thailand will additionally close for Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha on dates announced by the Sheikhul Islam Office, where these do not coincide with nationwide holidays or weekends.

Financial-institution branches in Narathiwat, Pattani, Yala, Satun and Songkhla will also receive holidays for Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha and Chinese New Year, subject to the same condition.

The BOT said the July 1 half-year closing holiday, abolished in 2019, and the April 1 annual-account closing holiday for the Bank for Agriculture and Agricultural Cooperatives, abolished in 2022, will not return. Improved accounting systems allow book-closing without disrupting services.

Join the discussion?


30 August 2026
Georgealbert
Georgealbert

Swedish singer honoured by former Koh Lanta school

Swedish singer Zara Larsson has received a distinctly Thai-style tribute from the Koh Lanta language school where she says she attended third grade. Sanuk Language School, also known as Svenska Skolan Thailand, has put up congratulatory banners ahead of her sold-out Bangkok concert on November 1.

The banners appeared after Larsson told fans that Thailand was an important part of her childhood. Her comments surprised many Thai followers and the video spread widely on Thai social media.

Larsson announced the Bangkok date of her Midnight Sun Tour. The show is scheduled for UOB Live at Emsphere shopping mall, with Live Nation Tero as promoter.

School celebrates its former pupil

One banner outside Sanuk Language School reads: "Svenska Skolan Thailand would like to congratulate the world’s famous singer and our alumni, Zara Larsson. Her concert, Midnight Sun Tour, is coming to Thailand on November 1 at UOB Live, Emsphere."



Thai Ticketmajor shared images of the signs on its official Instagram account. Thai social media users noted their resemblance to the congratulatory banners commonly seen outside government offices around the country.

Larsson responded to the post with emojis, appearing to acknowledge and appreciate the gesture.

In a TikTok video, the singer explained why the Bangkok show felt personal to her, saying: "Honestly, this feels like semi-personal to me because I love Thailand I’ve been there so many times, I used to do third grade in Koh Lanta, fun fact, like Thailand raised me. It’s really no, honestly, it’s like it’s like a part of my childhood actually."

Ticket concerns followed by sell-out

Larsson has a substantial Thai fanbase, but some fans initially criticised ticket prices as expensive when compared with Thailand's minimum wage. Tickets were priced from 2,800 to 3,900 baht, while the Soundcheck VIP Package cost 9,000 baht.


The singer later said in a TikTok video that she agreed the tickets were not affordable for everyone, adding that she wanted fans to be able to attend and felt sorry for those unable to do so.

Tickets initially remained unsold, prompting Larsson to launch a campaign encouraging fans to post dancing videos on TikTok until the show sold out. The Bangkok leg sold out on August 27.

video_629412543659507736-wtJLXUBu.mp4

Join the discussion?


30 August 2026
Georgealbert
Georgealbert

Kunming-Udon Thani direct flights start 8 September

Lucky Air will begin direct charter flights between Kunming and Udon Thani on 8 September 2026, operating twice a week until 22 October. The route is intended to bring more Chinese visitors directly to Thailand's upper northeast.

The flights will operate on Tuesdays and Thursdays using Boeing 737-800 aircraft with 189 seats, according to Lalida Periswattanapong, deputy government spokeswoman.

Flight times and operating dates

Lucky Air's inbound flight 8L867 will leave Kunming at 4.50pm and arrive in Udon Thani at 5.50pm. The return flight, 8L868, will depart Udon Thani at 6.50pm and land in Kunming at 9.50pm.

The airline will operate the route from 8 September to 22 October 2026. The schedule may change under Lucky Air's operational plans.

Lalida said the direct service would improve access between China and the upper northeast, helping distribute tourism revenue to hotels, restaurants, transport providers and other local businesses.

The government is promoting regional airports as international gateways for travel, tourism and economic activity. Deputy Transport Minister Pattrapong Pattraprasit has pushed airport development under the Airport for Regional Development approach, aimed at improving safety standards and air links to support tourism, trade and investment.

Airport prepares for international passengers

Udon Thani Airport is due to receive its Public Aerodrome Operating Certificate from the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand on 2 September 2026.

If completed as planned, it will become the sixth airport under the Department of Airports to receive the certification, following Betong, Buriram, Surat Thani, Phitsanulok and Krabi airports.

The Transport Ministry and Department of Airports are coordinating with Immigration, Customs and public transport providers to prepare for international arrivals and onward connections from the airport. This will be particularly relevant to foreign residents and visitors using the new route, as international passengers will need the usual border, immigration and customs processing on arrival and departure.

Lucky Air will receive a 50% reduction in aircraft landing and parking charges for one year under the Department of Airports' 2026 domestic and international route-development incentive scheme. The measure is designed to encourage airlines to open new services linking regional Thai airports with overseas destinations.

Join the discussion?


30 August 2026
Georgealbert
Georgealbert

Thai panel seeks action over sexualised massage clip

Thailand's House committee on religion, arts and culture has urged state agencies to stop online material that sexualises Thai massage, following an explicit parody during a Buddhist Lent candle procession in Nakhon Ratchasima.

The committee said the clip could mislead foreign viewers into associating traditional Thai massage with prostitution, damaging the reputation of a practice listed by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

Thiwalrat Angkinan, Bhumjaithai MP for Phetchaburi and chair of the committee, outlined the panel's concerns at Parliament on 28 August 2026.

The footage came from the Buddhist Lent candle parade at Wat Bing in Chok Chai district, Nakhon Ratchasima. It was posted widely online under the title "Traditional Thai Massage Vat Bing" and portrayed Thai massage in an obscene, sexually suggestive manner, the committee said.

Committee seeks online controls and tougher penalties

The committee invited the Department of Cultural Promotion, Department of Health Service Support, Nakhon Ratchasima provincial culture and public health offices, the provincial Buddhist office, Nakhon Ratchasima City Municipality, Chok Chai Subdistrict Municipality and the Thai Massage Association to discuss ways of preventing a repeat.

Chok Chai municipality representatives said the procession had been organised by a local community group seeking to create humour, but that it reflected a lack of awareness. The organisers and municipality have since issued formal apologies and set rules for future parades banning obscene material or content contrary to public morality.

The committee proposed that the Department of Cultural Promotion use powers under the 2016 Act on the Promotion and Preservation of Cultural Wisdom Heritage, alongside the Computer Crime Act, to quickly block online text, images or videos that demean or harm national cultural heritage.

It also called for amendments to the 2016 law. While it can order harmful activity to stop, the committee said it lacks clear criminal penalties for people who violate or degrade registered cultural wisdom heritage.

Massage venues face closer scrutiny

The panel further proposed coordination with the Interior Ministry to amend subordinate regulations under the 1966 Service Establishments Act. The aim is to prevent the term "Thai massage" being used as a cover at bathhouse-massage establishments, which it said conflicts with the discipline's healthcare and treatment purpose.

The Department of Health Service Support said it would intensify checks on health-massage businesses operating under the 2016 Health Establishments Act, covering standards and ethics, to prevent concealed sex services.

It is also revising the law to set clearer ethical and professional conduct requirements for massage providers. Breaches of public morality could lead to legal action, including licence revocation.

The Nakhon Ratchasima Provincial Buddhist Office said Wat Bing had only served as the community meeting point for the candle procession. Monks and the abbot had no role in designing or approving the obscene performance.

"Thai massage is not a sexual joke or a tool for obscene entertainment," Thiwalrat said, describing it as a healing and health-care discipline and a cultural honour of global value.

Join the discussion?


30 August 2026
Georgealbert
Georgealbert

Supreme Court orders Bang Phli mansion demolished

Thailand's Supreme Court has upheld an order requiring the demolition of buildings on two plots at the Prime Nature Villa development in Bang Phli, Samut Prakan, and the return of more than 100 rai of common land to the estate's juristic person.

The ruling concerns land bought by Ing Paskorntee, wife of prominent businessman Korn Paskorntee, from Prime Nature Group Co Ltd. The court found the 2015 sale of two plots was void because the land formed part of the development's communal facilities.

The Supreme Court's Consumer Cases Division upheld the Region 1 Appeal Court ruling of 30 June 2022. The original court had dismissed the case before the estate juristic person appealed.

Land and facilities must return

The court ordered the cancellation of transfers involving title deeds 104795 and 104796, totalling 2 rai, 34.9 square wah, in Racha Thewa, Bang Phli.

Ing Paskorntee must remove the structures from those plots and hand them back to Prime Nature Villa's juristic person in good condition.

The court also ordered the transfer of six title deeds for the benefit of all plot buyers in the development. They include title deed 1318, covering a central lake of 94 rai, 3 ngan and 44.2 square wah; title deed 98963, which includes the clubhouse, swimming pool, gardens and former sales-office building; the two disputed plots; title deed 98961, the main access road; and title deed 98642, described as a kindergarten or tennis-court site.

The estate body, represented by ML Pariyada Diskul and Pornchai Kangwanwanich under a resolution dated 5 May 2017, sued six defendants. They included Prime Nature Group, Prime Nature Villa Co Ltd, the official receiver for Living Lagoon Co Ltd, Phannathrit or Phayu Nueangchamnong, Theeranat Nueangchamnong and Ing Paskorntee.

Advertising formed part of the deal

The Supreme Court said buyers had been attracted by advertising for facilities including the lake, clubhouse, international school, tennis court and two access routes. Buyers testified that these amenities, despite higher land prices than nearby plots, were material to their decisions.

It ruled that the promotional material and project plans formed part of the sales contracts under Section 11 of the Consumer Case Procedure Act 2008. Land advertised as communal infrastructure remained so even if it had not been properly listed in the land-allocation application or registered as an easement.

The defendants argued that some plots lay outside the approved development plan. The court rejected that argument, saying it could not deprive buyers of protection where facilities had been presented to them as part of the project.

The court said the transfer of title deeds 104795 and 104796 on 12 January 2015 breached the Land Allocation Act 2000. A buyer claiming good faith and payment could not validate a transaction contrary to public-order law, it said.

Join the discussion?


30 August 2026
Georgealbert
Georgealbert

Thailand home transfers rise 17.6% as Russian buying grows

Thailand's residential property market recorded 167,665 transfers in the first half of 2026, up 17.6% from 142,619 in the same period last year, according to the Real Estate Information Centre (REIC).

The transfers were worth 429.839 billion baht, a year-on-year increase of 9.8% from 391.601 billion baht. REIC director Mana Nimitvanich said government measures, including lower transfer and mortgage registration fees, had helped revive the market.

The fee reductions, first introduced in the second quarter of 2025, have been extended for another year, from July 1, 2026 to June 30, 2027. Relaxed loan-to-value ratios have also supported housing loans and prompted accelerated transfers, particularly in June.

Second-hand homes lead demand

Second-hand homes made up 63% of transfers, compared with 37% for new homes. REIC said buyers were increasingly focused on value for money, with used properties often offering more space per square metre and more central locations than newer developments in suburban areas.

The 2.01 million to 3 million baht price bracket rose to 24% of the market, while homes priced below 1 million baht fell to 27%.

Low-rise homes, including detached houses, accounted for 70% of total transfer value. Some 111,624 low-rise units changed hands, up 14.6%, for a combined 299.432 billion baht, up 6.1%.

Condominium transfers rose faster, increasing 24.1% to 56,041 units. Their value climbed 19.3% to 130.407 billion baht.

Foreign condo sales fall, but Russians gain ground

Foreign condominium transfers fell overall in the first six months of the year. The total dropped 8.8% to 6,533 units, while value slipped 1.5% to 28.267 billion baht.

Chinese buyers remained the largest group by transfer value in Bangkok and Chonburi, but their purchases fell 27.7% to 6.874 billion baht. Russian buyers recorded the strongest growth, with purchases worth 3.603 billion baht, up 75.9%, driven by activity in Phuket and Chonburi.

Myanmar buyers bought 2.457 billion baht worth of condos, down 16.2%, mainly in Bangkok. Other foreign buyers came from the US, Taiwan, France, the UK, Germany, Australia and India, in that order.

REIC linked weaker foreign purchasing power partly to global economic uncertainty. The stronger Russian presence may be particularly relevant to overseas buyers looking in Phuket and Chonburi, where demand from that market has increased sharply.

Growth forecast to slow after early surge

Outstanding personal housing loans stood at 5.17 trillion baht in the first half, up 2.6%. New housing loans rose 12.2% to 289.315 billion baht, with second-quarter growth reaching 18.4%. REIC said non-performing loans showed no clear increase and remained controllable, partly because banks maintained relatively strict lending standards.

For 2026, REIC forecasts 323,479 property transfers, up 2.3%, worth 880.760 billion baht, up 1.8%. The estimate assumes GDP growth of 2.25%, an MRR interest rate of 6.55% and inflation of 1.75%.

In 2027, transfer value is projected to rise 3.1% to 908.358 billion baht, although unit numbers are expected to edge down 0.9% to 320,617. REIC said higher construction costs and new land valuations taking effect on January 1, 2027 would contribute to the higher values.


Picture courtesy of TNR

Join the discussion?


30 August 2026
Georgealbert
Georgealbert

Phuket forum seeks 15-day cap on Israeli tourists

Around 200 to 300 Phuket residents gathered at Loma Park on Patong Beach on Friday, 28 August, calling on the government to restrict Israeli tourists to a maximum stay of 15 days.

The demand was made at a forum titled "Save Phuket, Save Patong, Respect Thai Law", where attendees raised concerns about the conduct of some foreign visitors and alleged illegal business activity. The event was closely monitored by uniformed and plainclothes police.

Tourism operators, hotel owners, tuk-tuk drivers, tour guides and local residents attended the meeting, organised by the Phuket Land Protection Group.

Calls for tighter screening

Participants said Phuket should more carefully screen arriving visitors and focus on what they described as high-quality tourist groups. They proposed stricter visa rules, including a 15-day limit for Israeli tourists, to ensure visitors are coming for holidays rather than to operate illegal businesses or take jobs from Thai people.

One tourism operator told the forum that three flights a week bring Israeli visitors to Phuket, each carrying 200 to 300 passengers. According to the speaker, at least 1,000 Israelis arrive each week, with many staying for at least 15 days or more per trip.

The operator acknowledged that Israelis are high-spending tourists, but said residents wanted visitors who holiday in Phuket and then leave rather than remaining for what they considered excessively long periods and competing for local work.

Attendees also complained about what they termed low-quality tourism, saying some visitors use cheap accommodation, buy food from convenience stores and behave arrogantly or disregard the law.

They further argued that a large Israeli presence could discourage European tourists from travelling to Phuket.

Petition handed to Phuket MP

Chalermpong Saendee, the People's Party MP for Phuket Constituency 2, received a petition from the Phuket Land Protection Group after listening to the views raised at the forum.

He said Phuket was a world-class destination drawing visitors from around the globe each year, and that tourism creates income and economic opportunities for the island province.

However, Chalermpong said problems needed to be addressed where people entered Thailand without respecting Thai law. He also referred to investment groups that had entered the market by taking advantage of local businesses, leaving Phuket SMEs and small entrepreneurs facing unfair competition.


Picture courtesy of TNR

Join the discussion?


30 August 2026
Georgealbert
Georgealbert

Thailand approves senior police reshuffle, new immigration chief

Thailand's Police Commission has approved a major annual reshuffle covering posts from deputy national police chief to provincial commander, following a meeting at Royal Thai Police headquarters that ran for almost nine hours on 28 August.

Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul chaired the Police Commission's eighth meeting for the 2026 annual appointment round. He left at 5.57pm after saying the appointments were proceeding properly under the rules, but returned at 9pm. The meeting ended at 11pm.

The commission approved appointments across 163 vacant posts: three deputy national police chief positions, six assistant national police chief posts, 19 commissioner roles, 41 deputy commissioner roles and 94 commander positions.

Immigration, tourist and cyber policing changes

For foreigners in Thailand, the most consequential changes are at agencies dealing directly with visas, border enforcement, tourism safety and online crime.

Pol. Lt. Gen. Nophasin Phoonsawat has been transferred to become the Commissioner of the Immigration Bureau. Pol Maj Gen Pongsiam Mekhintong, deputy commissioner of the Tourist Police Bureau, was promoted to commissioner of the Tourist Police Bureau. Pol Maj Gen Thinakorn Rangmat, deputy commissioner of the Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau, was promoted to lead that bureau.

Pol Maj Gen Phanthana Nutchanart, deputy Immigration Bureau commissioner, was promoted to head the Police Technology and Communications Division. Pol Maj Gen Pithak Uthaitham, who worked on cases involving foreign nominees, was named commissioner of the Police Legal Affairs and Litigation Bureau.

Senior ranks and regional commands

The three vacant deputy national police chief posts were filled in seniority order by Pol Lt Gen Noppawat Ariyankun and Pol Lt Gen Kritsada Surachetphong, both assistant national police chiefs. Pol Lt Gen Thanaphon Srisopha, deputy inspector-general, was elevated to inspector-general, while Pol Gen Itthiphol Atsariyapradit moved from inspector-general to deputy national police chief.

Six assistant chief posts were also considered. Pol Lt Gen Santi Chainiramai, Pol Lt Gen Nithithorn Jintakanon, Pol Lt Gen Atchayon Kraithong and Pol Lt Gen Kritsakon Pleethanyawong were appointed assistant national police chiefs. Pol Lt Gen Phisit Tanprasert and Pol Lt Gen Kritthaphon Yeesakhon became deputy inspectors-general, while Pol Lt Gen Trairong Phewphan moved to assistant national police chief.

Several major regional commissioners remain in their posts, including Bangkok Police Commissioner Pol Lt Gen Siam Boonsom, Central Investigation Bureau Commissioner Pol Lt Gen Nattasak Chaonasai, Border Patrol Police Commissioner Pol Lt Gen Rungroj Thakoonpunyasiri, Special Branch Commissioner Pol Lt Gen Yoswin Harnsamut and Provincial Police Region 9 Commissioner Pol Lt Gen Piyawat Chalermsri.

Long vetting process

Before the commission meeting, a police screening board led by national police chief Pol Gen Kittirat Phanphet met on 23 August to consider appointments from assistant national police chief and deputy inspector-general down to commander level. That meeting reportedly lasted more than 19 hours.

Anutin told reporters before the 28 August meeting that he had a sore throat and was unwell. At about 5pm, he called Pol Gen Kittirat for discussions believed to concern information on some proposed transfers.

Reports said five or six commanders who had held their positions for four years were considered for promotion, representing 5 per cent of vacant posts.

Join the discussion?


30 August 2026
Georgealbert
Georgealbert

Virgin Atlantic to launch direct London-Phuket flights

Virgin Atlantic will begin seasonal non-stop flights from London Heathrow to Phuket on 18 October 2026, creating what the airline says will be the only direct air link between London and Thailand's largest island.

The 14-hour service will operate three times a week throughout the winter season, using Boeing 787-9 aircraft with more than 250 seats. Most direct flights from London to Thailand currently arrive in Bangkok rather than Phuket.

Flights from Heathrow will leave every Wednesday, Friday and Sunday. Return services from Phuket will operate on Thursdays, Saturdays and Mondays.

A direct option for Phuket visitors

The new route is aimed at British holidaymakers seeking winter sun. Virgin Atlantic already flies to destinations including the Maldives, Dubai, Cape Town and Caribbean resorts.

For foreigners living in Phuket and elsewhere in southern Thailand, the service could offer a more straightforward option for family and friends visiting from the UK, without the need to transfer through Bangkok or another regional hub. It will also give UK-based travellers a direct arrival point for holidays in Phuket, rather than beginning their trip with an onward domestic flight.

Phuket is a major resort destination known for its beaches, scenery and culture. Its airport is also close to Mai Khao Beach, where visitors often watch aircraft pass overhead as they approach the runway.

Winter schedule begins in October

Phuket's winter season runs from November to February, its drier period after the summer rains and monsoon. Daytime temperatures can still exceed 30C, while evening temperatures rarely fall below 20C.

Juha Jarvinen, Virgin Atlantic's chief commercial officer, said when the route was announced: "We're thrilled to introduce our new direct service to Phuket, giving our customers a flavour of one of Southeast Asia's most captivating destinations.

"As well as making the trip more convenient, they can enjoy exploring Thailand's unique heritage, natural beauty and delicious cuisine. We can't wait for our customers to experience our trademark hospitality on their next unforgettable journey."

Virgin Atlantic has also partnered with Bangkok Airways, allowing travellers using the Phuket route to make connections over land and sea to other Thai destinations, including Bangkok, Koh Samui and Krabi.

Travellers heading for the Andaman coast before 18 October can still book through Virgin Atlantic Holidays, but will fly with Emirates via Dubai.

Seats on the inaugural flight are currently listed at about GBP1,300 one way in economy, rising to GBP4,097 for Upper Class.


Picture courtesy of The Mirror

Join the discussion?


30 August 2026
Georgealbert
Georgealbert

Two engineers die in fiery Rayong crash

Two 30-year-old engineers were killed when their vehicle overturned, struck a high-voltage power pole and burst into flames on Sukhumvit Road in Rayong early on 29 August 2026.

The crash happened at about 3am on the outbound side of Sukhumvit Road, opposite Wat Chak Luk Ya, heading from Rayong city towards Ban Chang district.

Police Lieutenant Anuwat Khamdokrak, the duty officer at Huai Pong Police Station, received the report of the vehicle driver losing control, overturning and hitting the roadside electricity pole. The impact was followed by explosions and a severe fire.



Firefighters from Map Ta Phut Municipality sent fire engines to the scene. However, by the time it arrived, flames had engulfed and almost entirely destroyed the vehicle.

Residents heard two explosions

Suphattra Saengngam, who lives near the crash site, said she was asleep when she heard the sound of heavy braking, followed by two explosions in quick succession.

When she went outside, she saw the vehicle wedged against the electricity pole and rapidly catching fire. Local residents attempted to help the people trapped inside but were unable to reach them.


Pictures courtesy of ThaiRath

The two men died inside the vehicle.

Engineers were returning to their accommodation
Jaran Janmanee, administrator of the Zoom Rayong page, identified the driver as Te-chit, 30, and the front-seat passenger as Phonlathawat, also 30.

Both men were engineers at an industrial factory, according to Jaran. They had reportedly been dining in Rayong city before setting off back to their accommodation, and their families became concerned after contact was lost.

Jaran said the families had been informed of the deaths.

Police are continuing their investigation to establish the precise cause of the crash. No conclusion has yet been announced on why the vehicle driver lost control.

AQPN8Vo9jL451TjqocTZooBVj8E0CcT4TmzZyDx19Vt7lRORv0Xc8UI3NCUUhDjXplfE_qJU3CcKwOqMbbI4gBhao8S9ovpoxxzHwY8IgA.mp4

Join the discussion?


30 August 2026
Georgealbert
Georgealbert

Bangkok’s 577 Club raided over licence and drugs

Thai Interior Ministry officials raided the 577 Club in Bangkok's Huai Khwang district at 1.30am on 29 August 2026, alleging it was operating as an unlicensed entertainment venue, serving alcohol outside legal hours and linked to drug activity.

The Department of Provincial Administration's DOPA S.W.A.T. team found hundreds of Thai and foreign customers inside the club at 577 Pracha Uthit 11 Road. Officials said some customers tested positive for drugs and drugs were found within the premises.

The operation, named "Singha Prab Mangkon Thamin", or "Lion Crushes the Dark Dragon", was led by Deputy Interior Ministers Pholphee Suwanchawee and Waris Sliangsiriphet.

Claims of late opening and no licence

The raid followed complaints that the venue, known locally as the "Chinese Huai Khwang pub", was operating illegally, selling drugs and serving alcohol beyond permitted hours.

Investigators said previous surveillance on 27 and 28 July showed the large venue, which has live music, singers, DJs, several service zones and private VIP rooms, continuing to admit customers after 2am. They estimated that 300 to 400 customers were inside at around 3am, and said it remained open at 4am.



Government records showed no entertainment-venue licence for the business, officials said. The authorities also said the club had previously been raided but had resumed operating, despite being less than three kilometres from responsible agencies.

Those found with drugs in their systems and those linked to drugs seized at the venue will be dealt with separately under the Narcotics Code and related laws, with investigators seeking to identify suppliers and wider networks.

Foreign staff and payment trail under scrutiny

Officials said several Vietnamese employees could speak Chinese and that recruitment appeared to favour Chinese-speaking staff. A Chinese national was also allegedly seen directing employees and resolving problems at the venue.

Investigators are examining whether that person had a management role, as well as possible Chinese investment and the use of Thai nominees to conceal foreign ownership or control.

The club accepted payments through Alipay and WeChat, officials said, with the payee shown as 577 Club SAENG MUNGKORN.THONG CO., Ltd., or Saeng Mungkorn Thong Company Limited. Payments were also reportedly accepted through several personal bank accounts.

Authorities will examine the company structure, shareholders, investment sources, controlling parties and ultimate beneficiaries. Foreign staff were detained after officials found allegations that they were working outside their authorised roles; their supervisors and other people connected to the club were sent to police investigators.


Pictures courtesy of SiamChon

Join the discussion?


30 August 2026
Georgealbert
Georgealbert

Thailand boosts Mekong flood warning data links

Thailand's water authorities are strengthening data-sharing arrangements with neighbouring Mekong countries to improve warnings of floods, dam releases and water-quality threats.

The Office of the National Water Resources (ONWR) said the system will help it obtain upstream information more quickly, assess likely effects in Thailand and prepare water-management measures and public alerts.

Monitoring stations and dams across the basin

The Mekong runs for about 4,880 kilometres through China, Myanmar, Laos, Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam. ONWR said changes in rainfall, river volumes, dam operations and water quality in one country can affect downstream communities in another.

Chumlap Tejasen, ONWR's Assistant Secretary-General and spokesman for international water management, said the river must be treated as "a single system covering the entire basin" because water conditions do not stop at borders.

"An important role for ONWR is to coordinate information and cooperation with neighbouring countries through international mechanisms and then integrate that information into Thailand's water-monitoring and management systems," he said.

The agency works through the Mekong River Commission (MRC), formed by Thailand, Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam under the 1995 Mekong Agreement. As secretariat of the Thai National Mekong Committee, ONWR links the MRC framework to Thailand's domestic water-management operations.

Information from 79 meteorological and hydrological monitoring stations across five countries is now connected to the system. Water-level readings from the Mekong's main channel and tributaries are updated in near real time every 15 minutes.

The Mekong River Commission Secretariat supplies five-day rainfall and water-level forecasts for riverside areas, as well as information on places at risk of flash flooding. ONWR also follows reservoir inflows, releases and storage volumes at 13 major dams in four Mekong countries.

An urgent coordination group involving member-country representatives shares information and sends notices about emergency dam discharges.

"Our goal is not merely to know that the water is coming. We must know early enough to manage it and coordinate with neighbouring countries quickly enough to reduce the impact on people," Chumlap said.

Plans for more coordinated action

ONWR wants regional cooperation to progress from exchanging data to coordinated water management. Proposals include covering more dams, sharing more types of information more frequently, and developing automated transmission systems.

Authorities are also considering advance exchanges of power-generation and water-release plans, alongside quicker and more systematic emergency notifications.

One proposal is to pre-release water from reservoirs where forecasts indicate heavy rainfall and increased inflows. The aim would be to create storage capacity, reduce peak water levels and lower cross-border flood risks, although ONWR said this would require suitable international coordination.

Water contamination also raised regionally

The agency is using the same cooperation channels to address heavy-metal contamination affecting the Kok, Sai and Ruak rivers, which connect to the wider Mekong basin.

ONWR has raised the matter through the MRC, directly with Myanmar and under the Mekong-Lancang Cooperation framework. It brought the issue to an MLC ministerial meeting and sought its inclusion in a draft joint statement by regional leaders.


Picture courtesy of The Nation

Join the discussion?


30 August 2026

Georgealbert
Georgealbert

Tourist pulled from drain in Phuket's Kata Area

A foreign female tourist was pulled from a drain after falling into it in Phuket's Kata area on 29 August, with footage of the incident prompting online criticism over pedestrian safety and local infrastructure.

The incident was recorded in Kata, Karon subdistrict, Muang district. A local Facebook user shared video showing the woman inside the drain as a foreign man, believed to be her boyfriend, tried to help her out.

He eventually managed to pull her clear.

Video shows tourist being helped from drain

The footage does not make clear exactly where in Kata the fall happened, what caused it, or whether the drain covered had collapsed as the woman stepped on it.

The Facebook post accompanying the video questioned the condition of the area and its infrastructure. It included a sarcastic remark about the experiences tourists seek and find, when travelling in Thailand.


Picture courtesy of Khaosod

Kata is one of Phuket's best-known visitor areas, particularly among overseas holidaymakers. The video has therefore renewed online scrutiny of the maintenance of public spaces in a province that remains one of Thailand's major tourist destinations.

Visitors who see an immediate hazard in a public area may wish to avoid it and alert nearby businesses, accommodation staff or local authorities where possible. In an emergency, Thailand's general medical emergency number is 1669.

Online reaction focuses on safety

The clip drew a large number of comments, with users criticising safety measures and the management of public areas. Comments included: "Is she badly hurt?", "Oh, this is Thailand," "Taxes are meant to be stolen for everything," and "Embarrassing."

The online reaction has again placed attention on tourist safety and infrastructure upkeep in Phuket.

AQPTr6VPnGLAuN18Vmhi-KqkHRNjK5YdQE0vtORFObZYhQwPrCicnqMDzp_N-bv7fbSlDvsJtH-gIodB5A8LGaVL1db6PxhQ0e42xO5wJw.mp4

Join the discussion?


29 August 2026
Georgealbert
Georgealbert

British men injured in Jomtien bar fight

Two British nationals were hurt during a fight at a beer bar at Rompho Market on Jomtien Second Road, Pattaya, shortly after midnight, in the early hours of 29 August.

Police detained another British man at the scene after he allegedly punched the pair. He told officers he had been angered by what he considered mocking or insulting remarks, according to initial information.

The incident was reported to the Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan Pattaya rescue radio centre at 12.36am. Rescue volunteers and officers from Pattaya City Police Station went to the bar.

Two men taken to hospital

A large number of tourists had gathered outside when emergency workers arrived.

One British man had a head wound, a cut lip and an injury to his right ankle. A second British man had bruising around his left eye socket.



Rescue workers provided initial treatment before taking both men to hospital.

The alleged attacker remained walking around the venue after the violence and was taken into custody by Pattaya police for questioning.

Police to review CCTV footage

Witnesses said the injured group had been drinking together as a group of three. The suspected attacker had arrived alone before sitting with them to drink and talk.

They appeared likely to have known one another, witnesses said, as they were of the same nationality and had apparently spoken previously.

A short time later, the man allegedly got up and began punching the first injured man. Friends who moved in to help were also assaulted and suffered injuries, witnesses told responders.

The detained man claimed he had been upset by disparaging comments directed at him. Police have not yet confirmed the full circumstances and will examine CCTV footage from around the bar to establish the cause of the fight.

Police had not released any names and said their investigation was continuing.


Pictures courtesy of SiamChon

Join the discussion?


29 August 2026
Georgealbert
Georgealbert

Bang Phli police question Indian loanshark suspects

Police in Samut Prakan are questioning an Indian businessman accused of running an ice cream operation as a front for illegal lending in Bang Phli district, after seven Indian vendors were arrested.

The men, who sold ice cream by motorcycle, are alleged to have threatened borrowers who fell behind with interest payments. They were detained on Friday, 28 August, following an operation involving Bang Phli police and Internal Security Operations Command officers.

Complaints over threats to borrowers

The arrests followed complaints from local residents who said the vendors intimidated them when they could not meet interest payments on loans.

Tae Achiwa, head of the Thai Mai Thon, or Thai People Won't Tolerate, group, carried out a sting operation targeting the vendors.

One borrower interviewed by TV Channel 7 said he had turned to one of the lenders because his business was struggling and he had no working capital. He said compounded interest soon left him unable to repay, and that he was threatened by the group.

The debtor appealed for help, saying he did not want his family to suffer.

Vendors held as police trace money trail

The seven men, whose names were not released by authorities, had rented a house in a community in Bang Chalong subdistrict, Bang Phli district. Police said none had passports, although each carried a date-stamped ticket resembling a monthly payment record.

They told officers they paid 2,500 baht a month to the alleged Indian boss in order to conduct the business.

Police said the group had been operating an ice cream business while also running an illegal loansharking operation. They were arrested on accusations of taking jobs from Thais and illegal lending, and remain in custody pending further investigation and legal proceedings.

The businessman identified as the alleged ringleader was summoned for questioning. He denied involvement in either the ice cream business or illegal money lending, but admitted knowing all seven men.

Investigators are now looking into other possible participants and tracing the financial transactions of the alleged leader, as the investigation continues.

It also underlines the risks of informal lending. Anyone facing debt difficulties should be cautious about borrowing from unregulated lenders, particularly where high interest, threats or intimidation are involved.

Join the discussion?


29 August 2026
Georgealbert
Georgealbert

Account

Navigation

Search

Search

Configure browser push notifications
Chrome (Android)
  1. Tap the lock icon next to the address bar.
  2. Tap Permissions → Notifications.
  3. Adjust your preference.
Chrome (Desktop)
  1. Click the padlock icon in the address bar.
  2. Select Site settings.
  3. Find Notifications and adjust your preference.