Davos Boost: THB500bn Digital/AI Investments for Thailand

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Thailand has successfully attracted approximately THB500 billion in investments focused on digital and AI following its participation in the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Switzerland. Ekniti Nitithanprapas, Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister, stated that Thailand's presence at the WEF has elevated its status as a regional hub for investment and innovation, especially in sectors like modern agriculture, electric vehicles, and smart electronics.

Thai Man Extradited to US for Murder After 30 Years on the Run

Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post

Woravit Mektrakarn, a man originally from Bangkok, Thailand has been extradited to the United States to face a murder charge in California after nearly 30 years on the run. Mektrakarn, 58, was wanted for the death of his employee Jose Garcia in 1996, related to Mektrakarn's noodle business in Ontario, California. Garcia was last seen on November 23, 1996, believed to have met Mektrakarn for a financial agreement before disappearing.

New Sugar Standard for Drinks Aims to Cut Sugar Intake

Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post

The Department of Health (DoH) in Thailand will introduce a national standard for made-to-order drinks, titled "Normal Sweetness = 50% Sweetness," to reduce sugar consumption and combat non-communicable diseases. This new guideline seeks to halve the sugar content in "normal" drink orders. The official launch is set for February 11, following a consensus reached at a January 15 meeting.

Central Group Secures 30-Year Lease Extension with SRT

Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post

The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) has renewed its lease contract with Central Group's Central International Development for the 47-rai Phahon Yothin Triangle, home to the Central Ladprao shopping mall. The lease, valued at a minimum of 42 billion baht, extends for 30 years from December 19, 2028, to December 18, 2058, as confirmed by Songyasin Chonpatathip, acting managing director of SRT Asset (SRTA).

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Child's Firecrackers Cause 1 Million Baht Bridge Damage

Photo via Fire & Rescue Thailand

A fire caused by a child setting off firecrackers at Bhumibol 2 Bridge has led Thailand’s Ministry of Transport to seek around 1 million baht in compensation from the child’s parents. The incident occurred on January 15 in Samut Prakan, spreading flames to a drainage pipe and damaging the bridge beam located 50 meters above ground. Immediate action by the Department of Rural Roads and firefighting teams brought the fire under control within an hour.

Three Injured in Love Triangle Knife Attack in Thailand

Photo from Dailynews

A knife attack outside a condominium in Samut Prakan, Thailand, linked to a love triangle, resulted in three men being injured, with two in critical condition. Police from the Samrong Nuea station received reports of the incident at the entrance of a condominium in Thepharak subdistrict. Emergency responders quickly arrived to provide assistance to the victims.

Cat Cafe Owner in Bangkok Faces Animal Cruelty Charges

A cat cafe owner in Bangkok's Bang Khen district is under investigation for animal cruelty after a viral video showed him abusing cats at his business, the Just Cat Cafe. The footage, showing the owner hitting and throwing cats, prompted immediate backlash, leading him to close the cafe permanently. District officials confirmed the closure after inspecting the premises on Monday.

Missing Man Found Dead After 4-Day Search in Satun Province

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Authorities in Satun province have located the body of Niphol, a 29-year-old man who had been missing for four days. Niphol was found near his home in the Na Thon subdistrict, laying face down beneath a tree on a hillside. The discovery followed a major search operation involving local rescue units, officials, and residents.

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Thailand Live Wednesday 28 January 2026

https://aseannow.com/topic/1385909-thailand-live-wednesday-28-january-2026/