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Community Satellite Images Reveal Rare Earth Mining Near Border, Raising Toxic Contamination Fears
Picture courtesy of Matichon. Human rights groups have raised alarms over two newly identified rare earth mining operations just kilometres from Thailand’s northern border, amid growing concern about potential toxic runoff into the Kok River, which flows through Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai provinces. According to the Tai Yai Human Rights Foundation, recent satellite imagery reveals two rare earth mining sites operating in the Wa-controlled Special Region 2 of Myanmar, located near the towns of Mong Sat and Yawnghwe (Yong Kha). The mines are situated dangerously close to the Kok River, one just 2.6 kilometres away on the west bank and another 3.6 kilometres away on the east, heightening fears that toxic chemicals used in the extraction process could leak into the water system shared by both countries. The foundation released the satellite images following ongoing reports that levels of arsenic in the Kok and Sai rivers had exceeded safety standards. This contamination has been linked to gold mining activity in the region and has been blamed for widespread flooding in late 2024, the worst in recent memory. Now, attention has shifted to the rare earth mining operations, which are reportedly extracting valuable minerals such as terbium (Tb) and dysprosium (Dy), used in high-tech electronics and military equipment. These minerals are extracted using a highly polluting process known as in-situ leaching, in which chemical solvents are poured through pipes into the hillsides to dissolve the minerals underground. The resulting solution is then pumped into a series of circular evaporation ponds, visible in the satellite photos. This extraction method is notoriously destructive, having previously caused extensive environmental damage in Myanmar’s Kachin State, where Chinese companies are known to operate large-scale rare earth mining ventures. Reports from Kachin document landslides, poisoned groundwater, dying wildlife, and contaminated crops, outcomes that experts now fear could occur along the border as well. The rare earth sites near Mong Sat are believed to have been operational since mid-2023, while mining on the west bank of the Kok River began in mid-2024. These operations went largely unnoticed until investigative scrutiny over gold mining in the Shan State led to deeper satellite analysis, which identified the distinct mining layouts typically associated with rare earth extraction. The foundation warns that without immediate action, the river systems from Mae Ai District in Chiang Mai to Chiang Saen in Chiang Rai, where the Kok flows into the Mekong, could be at risk of contamination, endangering communities on both sides of the border. Environmental groups and civil society organisations are now calling on Thai and Myanmar authorities to urgently investigate and disclose the full scope of mining activity in the area. They are also demanding transparent environmental impact assessments and cross-border cooperation to monitor water quality and protect public health. The government has yet to issue an official statement in response to the latest revelations. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-05-18. -
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Accident Factory Collapse in Chon Buri Sparks Safety Concerns, No Injuries
Already confirmed. https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/3027775/saos-steel-brand-found-at-collapsed-factory-in-chon-buri?fbclid=IwY2xjawKV4apleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHhHi95N5h_9NBq6Y8g_8y4Z4A9MTZp1zFiZUI-f1v_nwafJ0N6jR1lUGA3vW_aem_Rbtf8RCAjaSS78FlpkPhgg -
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THAILAND LIVE Thailand Live Sunday 18 May 2025
Global Resort Giant Wynn Eyes Investment in Thailand’s Entertainment Complex Sector Picture courtesy of Matichon A top executive from one of the world’s leading resort and entertainment companies has expressed keen interest in investing in Thailand’s emerging entertainment complex sector, highlighting the kingdom’s potential as a global destination for leisure and tourism. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360948-global-resort-giant-wynn-eyes-investment-in-thailand’s-entertainment-complex-sector/ -
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Tourism Global Resort Giant Wynn Eyes Investment in Thailand’s Entertainment Complex Sector
Picture courtesy of Matichon A top executive from one of the world’s leading resort and entertainment companies has expressed keen interest in investing in Thailand’s emerging entertainment complex sector, highlighting the kingdom’s potential as a global destination for leisure and tourism. On 16 May, Chris Gordon, President of Wynn Development, the development arm of US-based Wynn Resorts, met with Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat at the Ministry of Finance in Bangkok. The meeting centred on Wynn’s interest in participating in the proposed Thailand Entertainment Complex (TEC), a government-backed initiative aimed at developing integrated resorts in the country. Mr Gordon praised Thailand’s tourism appeal, citing its natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture and said the country is well-positioned to attract large-scale investment and become a leading hub for global entertainment and recreation. Wynn, which operates high-profile integrated resorts in Las Vegas and across Asia, is known for its strict regulatory compliance, especially concerning anti-money laundering and gambling addiction measures. Gordon shared details of Wynn’s global risk mitigation strategies and highlighted how cutting-edge technology has been used to enforce responsible gaming and financial transparency. He also noted that several other international operators, including those involved in concerts, shows, and sporting events, have shown interest in engaging with the government to explore future collaborations. Deputy Minister Julapun welcomed Wynn’s interest, stating that the government is committed to carefully advancing the TEC initiative in a way that balances economic opportunity with social responsibility. “We are pleased that a world-class company like Wynn Resorts sees the potential of investing in Thailand,” Julapun said. “This reflects growing confidence in Thailand not only as a tourist destination but as a viable regional investment hub. The government will proceed prudently to ensure economic benefits such as job creation are matched by strong social safeguards for all Thai citizens.” The Parliament is currently preparing to review draft legislation that would regulate the establishment and operation of integrated entertainment complexes. The bill includes stringent anti-money laundering provisions and social protections, particularly concerning problem gambling. According to government sources, high-profile international firms such as Galaxy Entertainment, Melco, MGM Resorts, and Genting Group have also scheduled meetings with Deputy Minister Julapun on 19 May to discuss potential investments and provide input into the development of the TEC framework. The TEC initiative is seen as a potential game-changer in Thailand’s economic strategy, aiming to diversify tourism offerings and attract high-value visitors while maintaining a strong commitment to responsible development. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-05-18. -
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ID card as a picture in the phone?
Interesting. I tried it, didn't work for me, but from the Google reviews it seems to work for some people. Is there a similar app for a Thai ID card or a pink card? Or is it acceptable for Thais to use only a photo of the ID card for identification -
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Report Thai Defense Minister Phumtham Denies Deal To Hand Over Sub To Cambodia
Perfect for Cambodia. My first submarine was powered by baking soda too. ...and the Gulf of Thailand is no shallower and less suitable for submarine operations than my bathtub was at the time either.
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