House/Senate meeting adjourned due to lack of quorum among divided lawmakers
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
A joint House/Senate meeting was abruptly halted today (July 5) due to lack of a quorum after pro-government lawmakers could not agree on which electoral systems they should back.
Ministry again urges people to wear face masks
The Public Health Ministry rowed back on wearing face masks today (July 5) with the public urged to continue doing so as Omicron subvariants BA.4 and BA.5 are now spreading fast here.
Driver charged with recklessness after school bus flips over
The driver of a school bus carrying 30 students was charged with recklessness after the vehicle overturned this morning (July 5) as a result of brake failure.
Myanmar refugees start returning home as guns fall silent
With fighting between Myanmar junta troops and Karen insurgents across the border from Tak province having stopped for three days now some refugees sheltering on the Thai side returned home.
Deputy Energy Minister tells senators to turn down air-conditioning
At a senate meeting on energy woes Deputy Energy Minister Supattanapong Punmeechaow urged the senators to set an example by turning down the air-conditioning in the parliamentary chamber and stop wearing suit and tie to keep cool.
Chadchart aims to build 500km jogging tracks, starting with 10km pilot scheme
Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt unveiled a plan to build 500km of jogging tracks in the capital starting off with a 10km pilot scheme with the goal of turning this into a walkable city.
Elderly Aussie rescued after getting lost in Koh Larn forest
A 77-year-old Australian man who got lost in the forest at Koh Larn island off Pattaya coast after being separated from his friends was rescued after hours of search last night.
Myanmar hosts 1st regional meeting since army takeover
By AP and published by VOA News
Myanmar junta hosted its first big regional meeting since last year’s power grab today (July 4) with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi holding talks with his counterparts from Mekong Delta nations.
F-16s rumbled in show of force after intruding MiG-29 flew back
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
The Thai air force scrambling two F-16 fighter jets upon intrusion of Thai airspace by a Myanmar MiG-29 jet last Thursday was merely a show of force after the latter had already flown back.
Phuket Airport runway temporarily shut for repairs
Phuket Airport’s runway was closed for the second time for repairs late afternoon today (July 3) and initially 22 flights were affected.
Several dead in Copenhagen mall shooting; suspect arrested
By Jan M. Olsen and Karl Ritter, AP, and published by ABC News
A gunman opened fire inside a busy Copenhagen shopping mall killing several people and wounding many others with a suspect arrested afterwards.
Prayut held responsible for Myanmar MiG-29 intrusion: Academic
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
A Chulalongkorn University academic pinned the responsibility for slow response to Myanmar MiG-29’s intrusion into Thai airspace on Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha while warning of international criticism.
Pick-up truck hit with shrapnel from Myanmar MiG-29 jet’s gunfire
A pick-up truck was hit with shrapnel after Myanmar’s MiG-29 jet that intruded into Thai airspace on Thursday sprayed gunfire at a palm plantation a kilometre away from the border.
Prayut, air force chief to be summoned for House testimony over Myanmar MiG-29 intrusion
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
A House panel is to quiz both Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha and air force chief ACM Napadej Dhupatemiya about a Myanmar MiG-29 jet intruding into Thai airspace yesterday (June 30) amid questions about delay in sending alert warning.
Myanmar MiG-29 fighter jet strafes Karen positions again but no intrusion
A Myanmar MiG-29 fighter jet made nine bombing runs over Karen positions just across the border from Tak province this morning (July 1) but did not intrude into Thai airspace as occurred yesterday.
BMA hiring 306 disabled people to work at its offices
Bangkok administration is hiring 306 disabled people to work at social development and district offices and also giving them space to trade at markets.
Indonesia and Russia to build $22b refinery in East Java among other projects
By Wahyudi Soeriaatmadja, The Straits Times
Despite the West imposing a string of sanctions on Russia over its invasion of Ukraine, Indonesia is gearing up to work together with Moscow on several projects including a refinery in East Java.
New Omicron subvariants will spread across Thailand shortly
A Thai academic said while Omicron subvariants BA.4 and BA.5 will likely soon spread nationwide, infection rate may not jump significantly as is happening in Europe.
Russia seizes control of Sakhalin gas project, raises stakes with West
By Reuters and published by CTV News
Russia seized full control of an oil and gas project in the country’s far east with this impacting Shell and the Japanese and raising risks for Western firms still there.
Chadchart invites public to watch movies in the open air throughout July
In an effort to make Bangkokians happy Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt has arranged an open air movie festival throughout July with 25 films being screened
Wissanu: Ask Constitutional Court about Prayut’s eight-year tenure
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
Deputy Premier Wissanu Krea-ngam suggested that those wondering if Prime Minister Chan-o-cha’s eight-year tenure ends in August ask the Constitutional Court for judgement.
Two Thai F-16 fighters deter Myanmar’s intruding MiG-29 jet
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
The Thai air force sent two F-16 fighter jets to intercept a Myanmar MiG-29 jet that intruded into the Thai air space at the border in Tak province but there was no aerial engagement.
Russia abandons Snake Island in victory for Ukraine
By Reuters and published by Cyprus Mail
Russian forces withdrew from strategic Snake Island in a victory for Ukraine that could help ease the blockade of Ukrainian ports.
Thammanat tells Prayut to quit if any minister targeted in censure debate flounders
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
Thai Economic party leader Thammanat Prompao said Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha should step down if any minister targeted in the upcoming censure debate struggles to survive.
Protests in Chiang Mai during Prayut’s visit despite tight security
Despite 2,120 policemen guarding Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha during his visit to Chiang Mai today (June 29) demonstrators still managed to stage two small protests against him.
Foreign street racers again causing chaos in Pattaya
Foreign bikers, mainly from the Middle East, are again regularly racing up and down an alley in Pattaya in a reckless manner with video clips of their antics circulating online.
Publishing house editor arrested on charges of disclosing national secrets
A publishing house editor-in-chief was arrested this afternoon (June 29) on the charges of disclosing national secrets and violating the Computer Crime Act.
With cannabis decriminalised, is it now gambling’s turn?
Hot on the heels of the decriminalisation of cannabis a former politician today (June 28) urged the government to legalise gambling as all neighbouring countries already have casinos.
Two ministers found infected with Covid after returning from overseas
Both Commerce Minister Jurin Laksanawisit and Public Health Minister Anutin Charnvirakul tested positive for Covid-19 upon returning from trips to Europe with people urged to continue being careful.
Chuan rushed to hospital but condition not worrying
Former prime minister and current Parliament President and House Speaker Chuan Leekpai was rushed to the hospital for fever and chills but initially his condition was not seen to be worrisome.
Tycoon Deripaska casts doubt on Russia quest for ‘victory’ in Ukraine
By Reuters and published by US News & World Report
Russian tycoon Oleg Deripaska questioned the Kremlin’s rationale for invading Ukraine and suggested no winner would emerge from this war while pointing to the economic price being paid.
Abhisit doubts Prayut could efficiently run the country at all
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
Former premier Abhisit Vejjajiva doubts Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha could efficiently run the country at all as he could not even find time to respond to a House interpellation.
Chadchart moves to check transformers after two big fires
Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt is pushing the Metropolitan Electricity Authority to check all transformers after yesterday’s fire at Sampeng market while also expediting burying cables underground.
Covid fear lingers in Krabi despite face mask mandate being eased
Tourist business operators and workers in Krabi remained worried about catching Covid despite the easing of the face mask mandate and are still wearing them.
West pledges unwavering support for Ukraine as missiles strike shopping centre
By Reuters and published by CNA
Western countries pledged unwavering support for Ukraine as two missiles hit a shopping centre killing at least 13 people and wounding 50 others.
One dead in Sampeng market fire with shoppers fleeing in panic
One person died after a fire broke out at Chinatown’s Sampeng market today (June 26) with panicked shoppers dashing for safety.
Wat Don Cemetery bustling as people flock in to listen to music
Despite being believed to be haunted, Wat Don cemetery in Sathorn attracted a big crowd of music lovers who showed up to attend a concert there today (June 26).
Russia steps up missile strikes on Ukraine as G7 leaders gather
By Reuters, published by CNA, plus BBC
Russian missiles hit targets across Ukraine on Sunday as G7 leaders meet in Germany and UK joins ban on imports of Russian gold.
Analysis: Prayut will survive censure motion, major cabinet reshuffle tipped to follow
By Out-Crowd
Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha will likely survive next month’s censure/no-confidence motion with the help of “bananas” being handed out again after which a big cabinet shake-up looms.
Vendor earning over a thousand baht a day selling cannabis plants
A smart vendor is making over a thousand baht net profit a day selling small cannabis plants at an Ang Thong market after decriminalisation came into effect on June 9.
Chadchart confirms he is attending concert at Wat Don cemetery tomorrow
Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt will be definitely attending a concert at Wat Don cemetery in Sathorn tomorrow (June 26) with the public reassured this place is no longer scary.
Filipina wins transgender pageant in Pattaya
By Reuters and published by US News & World Report
A Filipina beat 22 contestants to be crowned Miss International Queen 2022 at a transgender pageant in Pattaya that took place after a gap of almost two years.
Revolution of Siam 90 years ago observed today
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
Pheu Thai Party marked the 90th anniversary of the 1932 Revolution of Siam, former name of Thailand, today (June 24) with the country’s political development having been held back by 19 coups since then.
Chadchart unveils 7 places for public rallies
Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt signed an ordinance today (June 24) allowing public gatherings at seven places in the capital but there are conditions to do so.
DSI moves to seize 1bn baht assets from Chiang Mai, Krabi condo developer
The Department of Special Investigation raided the office and residence of a Chiang Mai and Krabi condo developer charged with defrauding buyers and is moving to seize over 1 billion baht in assets.
Ukrainian army leaving battered city for fortified positions
By AP and published by Cp24.com
Ukrainian troops are pulling out of the ruined city of Sievierodonetsk after weeks of street fighting and bombardment to prevent bigger losses and move to better fortified positions.
Thaksin advises public to hold cash amid global volatility
Former premier Thaksin Shinawatra urged the public to hold onto cash and delay investing in high-risk assets amid the current global volatility driven by the Russia-Ukraine war.
Ex-husband stabs young teacher to death in classroom
A young teacher died after being stabbed by her ex-husband in a classroom just as the lunch break was about to end at the school in Surin province.
Aung San Suu Kyi moved to solitary confinement in prison, says junta spokesman
By Agencies and published by Channel NewsAsia
Myanmar’s deposed leader Aung San Suu Kyi has been moved from house arrest to solitary confinement in a prison compound at the capital Naypyidaw.
European leaders grant Ukraine and Moldova EU candidate status
By ABC News/Wires
Both Ukraine and Moldova have been granted EU candidate status with the former applying days after the Russian invasion in February, and the process moved at a record speed.
Mongkolkit lashes at police move to hit Bangkok motorists with arrest warrants
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
A maverick MP slammed Metropolitan Police Bureau’s move to get arrest warrants issued for Bangkok traffic violators as piling pressure on people struggling to survive.
Bonkai fire raged for 2 hours gutting 30 houses, Chadchart sets up help centre
Yesterday’s fire at the Bonkai slum community on Rama IV road raged for two hours before being put out with 30 houses gutted and Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt quickly got there to inspect and help.
Pattaya ladyboys steal gold necklace from Indian tourist
Another Indian tourist was robbed of his gold necklace worth over 100,000 baht in Pattaya by a couple of transgenders who embraced him and offered their services.
More contagious Omicron subvariants found in Thailand
Two new subvariants of Omicron, BA.4 and BA.5, that have higher transmissibility compared to previous strains have been found in Thailand but the Public Health Ministry is still studying the mutants.
Tax waived for foreign actors filming in Thailand
The Thai Cabinet approved tax exemption for foreign actors shooting on location here for five years today (June 21) in a move to draw more filmmakers to the country.
Firemen take an hour to control big blaze at Rama IV road community
Firemen took around an hour to control a fierce fire at Bonkai community on Rama 4 road this afternoon (June 21) with this having started from a two-storey wooden house.
Deputy minister’s dad surrenders in land grab case, bailed out
The father of Deputy Education Minister Kanokwan Wilawan surrendered to police today (June 21) but was granted temporary release by the court with a surety of 600,000 baht.
Pheu Thai Party’s total campaign finance to be cut over T-shirt handout in Sisaket
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
Pheu Thai Party’s campaign finance is being docked for the distribution of free Pheu Thai Family T-shirts at the huge rally in Sisaket province over the weekend.
Renowned real estate executive Nigel Cornick launches development partnership in Thailand
Unveiling a new development partnership is Mr. Nigel Cornick, a renowned property executive with THB45 billion track record in completed luxury condominium projects.
Chadchart tells all districts to arrange a walking street to help resolve financial woes
Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt ordered all districts to arrange a walking street where residents could sell goods to help them make ends meet.
BTS Skytrain request for long-haired passengers to be careful goes viral
Giving vent to their annoyance were a lot of passengers after BTS Skytrain issued a request for people with long hair to be careful of their ends flickering on the face of co-passengers.
Second suspect held in Thai couple’s murder in Taiwan
A second suspect in the murder of a Thai couple in Taiwan was arrested in Kalasin province this morning (June 19) while police are hunting for the third man.
Protesters blocked from marching to Prayut’s residence
Protesters again tried to march to Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha’s residence this afternoon (June 19) but were blocked from doing so at Din Daeng intersection.
Bike-riding teen protesters fire firecrackers at police in Din Daeng hotspot
Teen protesters zoomed in on their motorcycles and fired firecrackers at police despite heavy rain after senior demonstrators started dispersing.
Crypto weekend meltdown: Bitcoin price touches $17k, Ethereum below $900
By Anna Golubova, Kitco News
The sell-off in the crypto market accelerated over the weekend with Bitcoin and Ethereum breaching symbolic price barriers as the market remains in the meltdown mode.
‘Second Walk to Chase Tu’ moves to Din Daeng intersection
The “Second Walk to Chase Tu” protest piling pressure on Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha to quit moved from the gate of the police headquarters to Din Daeng hotspot but the situation remained calm.
Bhumjaithai Party all set to keep Prayut in power: Nattawut
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
Former Red Shirt leader Nattawut Saikua warned Sisaket villagers not to vote for Bhumjaithai Party candidates as this would lead to Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha staying in power beyond the next general election.
Canadian woman biking in Kanchanaburi dies after being hit by pickup truck
A Canadian woman bicycling along with her husband while holidaying in Kanchanaburi province was hit by a pickup truck early this morning (June 18) and died on the spot.
Big crowds take to London streets to protest soaring costs
By AP, published by CTVnews.ca, plus BBC
Thousands of British protesters took to the streets of London to demand action from the government on the cost of living crisis with teachers also joining them.
Bhumjaithai leader shrugs off Pheu Thai drive to recruit Red Shirt activists
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
Bhumjaithai Party leader Anutin Charnvirakul brushed aside Pheu Thai Family’s campaign to recruit Red Shirt activists in Sisaket saying it is merely a commonplace tactic.
Rules on entry, face masks, entertainment venues eased from July 1
The Covid panel this morning (June 17) greatly relaxed rules on entering the country, wearing face masks with entertainment venues too allowed to stay open till 2 a.m. from July 1.
Suspect in murder of Thai couple in Taiwan surrenders, being quizzed
The suspect in the murder of a Thai couple in Taiwan surrendered in Chiang Mai and is being flown to Bangkok for questioning by National Police Chief Pol. Gen. Suwat Chaengyodsuk.
Ukraine gets possible path to EU, aid pledges from Britain
By AP and published by US News & World Report
The European Union’s executive arm recommended putting Ukraine on a path to membership, while British Prime Minister Boris Johnson offered continued aid and military training.
Anutin urges limited consumption of marijuana amid allergic reactions
Public Health Minister Anutin Charnvirakul told the public to limit marijuana consumption as cases of allergic reaction have now started appearing.
Chadchart: Public assembly sites being arranged in all districts
Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt said he would take care of demonstrators in all districts with officials exploring public assembly sites for them to use.
Posh residences at The Whiteley in London being launched here soon
Adding excitement to the Bangkok property scene is the launch of The Whiteley residences in London’s Bayswater by Savills Thailand at the end of this month.
Holidaymakers find Pattaya pool villa crawling with roaches and rats
A Facebook user and her party who paid 47,000 baht for a two-night stay at a luxury pool villa in Pattaya found that the swimming pool was crawling with cockroaches and rats with an air-conditioner also leaking.
Censure/no-confidence motion lodged against Prayut, 10 other cabinet members
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
The opposition bloc submitted a censure/no-confidence motion against Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha and 10 other members of cabinet today (June 15) with debate likely in two weeks’ time or by early next month.
Baht at its weakest point in 6 years as Fed’s aggressive rate hike looms
The Thai baht plunged to 35.079 baht/US dollar today (June 15), its lowest level in six years, amid a move by the US Federal Reserve to hike the cost of borrowing.
Chadchart: Luxury house in Seattle purchased with inherited asset
Amid questions about a luxury house in Seattle, USA, Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt explained that it was bought with money from the sale of land on Rama 4 road that his mother had given him and is in his son’s name.
Ukraine defies Russian ultimatum for eastern city, US sends more weapons to Kyiv
By Reuters and published by US News & World Report
Ukraine refused to surrender the eastern city of Sievierodonetsk as the US pledged another $1 billion of weapons aid.
Chadchart concerned about liberal marijuana use with one man already dead
Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt is closely monitoring liberal marijuana use that started on June 9 as one man is already dead after consuming large amounts of the plant.
Nattawut tasked with turning Red Shirt members into Pheu Thai voters
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
Thaksin Shinawatra’s daughter Paetongtarn is roping in Nattawut Saikua to bring Red Shirt members nationwide into the Pheu Thai Family fold.
Update: Deputy minister says Anutin letting her stay on despite land grab scandal
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
Deputy Education Minister Kanokwan Wilawan said Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, who is also head of Bhumjaithai Party, told her need not as yet quit over the Khao Yai land grab scandal.
Deputy minister keeps mum on land grab allegations
Deputy Education Minister Kanokwan Wilawan refused to answer reporters questions on land grab allegations after today’s Cabinet meeting while police chased her dad Sunthorn.
US Defence Secretary Austin meets Prayut to boost ties
By AP and published by US News & World Report plus Matichon
US Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin held talks with Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha in an effort to strengthen what Austin says is Washington’s “unparalleled network of alliances” in the region.
Two Indian men die in Koh Samui motorbike accident
Two Indian men holidaying on Koh Samui died after falling off their motorcycle and tumbling down a hillside at a dangerous spot where some tourists have already died in the past.
Pregnant woman’s brother asks police to track down killer
The brother of a Thai pregnant woman who was murdered in Taiwan together with her husband asked police to track down the killer who was sighted in Chiang Mai area.
Bitcoin falls 14% after crypto lender Celsius Network freezes withdrawals
By Reuters and published by Euronews.next
Bitcoin slumped 14% after lending company Celsius Network froze withdrawals and transfers citing “extreme” conditions, in the latest sign of a downturn hitting the cryptosphere.
Trouble avoided as anti-Prayut protesters gather at Din Daeng intersection again
Protesters joining the “Walk to Chase Tu” march from Din Daeng intersection to PM Prayut Chan-o-cha’s residence set off many firecrackers but there was no clash with police teams finally retreating.
Thailand asked to help arrest suspect in murder of Thai couple in Taiwan
Taiwan has asked Thai police to chase a Thai man suspected to have murdered a Thai couple there with the woman pregnant with twins.
Fire jellyfish warning at Koh Hong island off Krabi
Tourists have been warned to stay away from the beaches and not swim in the sea at Krabi’s Koh Hong island as very venomous fire jellyfish have come to the area.
Police vehicle set ablaze in fierce clash at Din Daeng intersection
A fierce clash erupted between police and protesters at Din Daeng intersection this evening (June 11) with a police vehicle set ablaze after they were stopped from going to Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha’s residence.
‘Walk to Chase Tu’ protest march through city centre
A large number of demonstrators joined the anti-government “Walk to Chase Tu” today (June 11) with Tu being Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha’s nickname.
World’s ‘future rules’ being decided on Ukraine battlefields, says Zelenskyy at Singapore meet
By Channel NewsAsia
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy told a Singapore meeting that the world’s future rules rests on the Ukrainian battlefield with boundaries of the possible being decided there.
Drugs found in raid of packed downtown pub operating after hours
Police raided Vampire pub in Pathumwan district where 500 revellers with tourists among them were found partying after the official midnight closing time with drugs scattered on the floor.
Chinese firm given 60 days to confirm German engine for S26T sub
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
The Thai navy has given a Chinese firm 60 days to confirm whether the specified German engine will be installed on the Yuan-class S26T submarine for which 7 billion baht down payment has been made.
Thammanat named top leader of Thai Economic Party
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
After being dismissed as deputy agriculture & cooperatives minister last September maverick MP Thammanat Prompao was today (June 10) named top leader of Thai Economic Party.
ISOC officer: Over 10,000 rai of Khao Yai forest land likely grabbed
An Internal Security Operations Command officer said the encroachment at Khao Yai National Park reserved forest possibly totals over 10,000 rai.
FEATURE: 10-baht pack of noodle with pork for the poor
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
A noodle vendor in Ratchaburi province is selling noodles with pork for just 10 baht a pack to help people struggling to make ends meet in sustained economic slumps and the pandemic situation.
NASA launches study of UFOs despite ‘reputational risk’
By AP and published by ABC News
NASA has set up a team to study UFOs which is a controversial topic and seen as “kind of selling out” by the traditional scientific community.
Deputy minister unreachable after forest encroachment allegations
After graft busters alleged that Deputy Education Minister Kanokwan Wilawan had backed issuing title deeds for reserve forest land plots reporters were unable to reach her at the ministry.
Move to allow pubs, bars stay open till 2 a.m. soon
The Covid panel’s operations head said today’s (June 9) meeting had considered allowing pubs and bars to stay open till 2 a.m. as the current midnight deadline is showing a good result.
Two Brits, one Moroccan sentenced to death by court of Russian proxy
By Reuters and published by US News & World Report
Two Britons and a Moroccan who were captured while fighting for Ukraine have been sentenced to death by a Russian proxy court in eastern Ukraine.
Mingkwan sets up Thai Opportunity Party, intends to run for PM
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
Ex-MP Mingkwan Sangsuwan who had resigned in the middle of the House chamber to protest against Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha has set up a new party and will vie for the top post.
Death sentence for Joe Ferrari reduced to life in prison
Pol. Col. Thitisan Uttanaphon, aka Superintendent Joe Ferrari, and six of seven of his subordinates were today (June 8) sentenced to death for killing a drug suspect with two plastic bags but this was commuted to life imprisonment.
Pink pineapple is illegal in Thailand – smugglers face heavy penalties
The public has been warned that the import and sale of pink pineapple is illegal in Thailand because this is a GMO crop and the country has a GMO-free policy.
Prayut shrugs off Chadchart no-show at event
To the surprise of one and all, Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt was not on hand to welcome Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha at the “Smart Pier Smart Connection” function today (June 8).
Prayut downplays hearsay of him taking helm of Palang Pracharath Party
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha played down rumours of him replacing Deputy Prime Minister Prawit Wongsuwan as head of Palang Pracharath Party amid a looming censure debate.
Rural doctors complain about Covid vaccines overflowing fridges, yet more being sent
The Rural Doctor Society complained today (June 7) that despite Covid vaccines now overflowing provincial hospital fridges the Public Health Ministry is still sending an additional 16.8 million doses.
Prisoners to start cleaning Bangkok’s sewers again from next month
Bangkok Metropolitan Administration reached an agreement with the Corrections Department on rehiring prisoners to clean the city’s sewer network from next month onwards.
Russia says two Ukrainian ports ready to ship grain but Kyiv must demine coast
By Reuters and published by US News & World Report
Russia said two Ukrainian ports it has seized are ready to resume grain exports but Kyiv must still demine its coast for exports to take place.
US air force team to evaluate preparations for deployment of F-35 fighters
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
A US air force team will be coming to Thailand to assess the Thai air force’s preparations to deploy two F-35 Lightning II stealth fighters which the Parliament and the US Congress have still to approve.
Southern fishermen sail to Bangkok to urge protection of juvenile aquatic animals
Southern fishermen sailed to Bangkok today (June 6) to launch their campaign on protecting juvenile marine animals and get a fair quota.
Police moving to arrest 3 suspects in death of Russian woman
Police are moving to obtain warrants for the arrest of three suspects in the death of a Russian woman who fell from a condo in Patong, Phuket, on May 31.
Battle for Ukraine’s Sievierodonetsk rages through city’s streets
By Reuters and published by Channel NewsAsia
Ukrainian and Russian troops were fighting street by street for control the industrial city of Sievierodonetsk with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy saying Ukraine had “every chance” to fight back.
59 Rohingya refugees rescued from Satun island
Rescued from an island off Satun province were 59 Rohingya refugees who had been abandoned there by their boat’s skipper after not fully paying the fare for their trip to Malaysia.
Hunt on for drug runners disguised as ambulance crew
Police are chasing drug traffickers disguised as paramedics and transporting a large amount of narcotics in their fake ambulance in Bangkok after a shootout in Saraburi province.
Chadchart for relaxing face mask rule and moving back to normal life
Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt is all for removing face masks in open spaces and also allowing entertainment venues to stay open till 2 a.m.
Philippines raises alert level at restive volcano after spewing cloud of ash
By Reuters and published by US News & World Report
A volcano in central Philippines spewed a column of ash at least 1 km into the sky leading to alert level being raised by a notch and residents told to stay away from danger zone.
THAI apologises for extra-long check-in queue
Thai Airways International apologised to passengers who had to wait for hours to check in at Suvarnabhumi Airport yesterday morning but pointed out none missed their flight.
Professor dies while testing plastic-to-oil incinerator
A professor testing an incinerator to convert plastic waste to oil at a Sakon Nakhon waste disposal site died after it exploded last evening (June 3).
Chadchart kicks off this weekend’s free music events
Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt launched the weekend’s “Music in the Garden for Happiness and Hope” events this evening (June 4) with tomorrow’s bash taking place at Lumpini Park.
Ukraine says it pushes back Russian troops in battlefield city Sievierodonetsk
By Reuters and published by Channel NewsAsia
Ukraine said it has recaptured part of the territory in the battlefield city of Sievierodonets that was lost to Russian forces in the first counter-attack after days of yielding ground.
House Okays 2023 Budget Bill After Marathon Debate
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
The 3.18 trillion baht budget bill was approved in its first reading at the House of Representatives in the wee hours of this morning (June 3) with a House committee now to scrutinise it.
MP calls for reopening Ananta Samakhom Throne Hall, Vimanmek Mansion to tourists
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
A Move Forward MP called for the reopening of Ananta Samakhom Throne Hall and Vimanmek Mansion to tourists during the debate on the 2023 budget bill at Parliament today (June 2).
Air force to arm F-35 fighters with its own weapon systems
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
The Thai air force explained that it is purchasing unarmed F-35 Lightning II stealth fighters because it already has weapon systems that could be installed in them.
Phuket cancels removing face masks in open air after just one day
Just one day after allowing the public to remove their face masks in the open air, Phuket authorities today (June 3) rolled back and issued an order that wearing them remains mandatory.
Pratunam market lively again as tourists flock in
Pratunam market is back on its feet after Covid measures were eased with both Thai and foreign tourists swarming in to buy fashionable clothes at low prices.
Myanmar democracy activists’ death sentences upheld, junta says
By Reuters and published by US News & World Report
The Myanmar junta will be executing two prominent democracy activists after appeals against their death sentences were rejected on Friday (June 3).
Face mask rule partially eased in Phuket
Phuket conditionally lifted the mandatory face mask rule as of yesterday (June 1, 2022) with tourists and residents not having to wear them in four circumstances.
Depp and Heard face uncertain career prospects after trial
By AP and published by US News & World Report
A jury’s verdict that both Johnny Depp and Amber Heard were defamed in their long-running public dispute over their brief marriage raises questions about whether they can overcome tarnished reputations.
Myanmar junta keeps Chiang Rai-Tachileik checkpoint shut
Although Thailand is ready to reopen the Chiang Rai-Tachileik checkpoint the Myanmar junta has still to permit it with sources pointing to a lack of officials and the resistance movement.
Chadchart not concerned less than 100m baht budget left for this fiscal year
Bangkok’s new governor Chadchart Sittipunt said he is not worried that there is less than 100 million baht budget left for this fiscal year as many of his policies do not require a lot of money to implement.
Bulon islanders call for help after running out of food
Starving residents of two Bulon islands off Satun coast got badly needed food supplies today (June 1) after days of torrential rain and windstorm had prevented them from going fishing.
US jury awards Depp $15m, Heard $2m in defamation fight
By Reuters and published by Indian Express
The jury announced split verdicts in favour of both Johnny Depp and Amber Heard on their claim and counterclaim in the Depp v. Heard civil defamation trial at the Fairfax County Circuit Courthouse on June 1.
House opens marathon debate on 2023 budget bill
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
The marathon debate of the 3.18 trillion baht 2023 budget bill started today (May 31) with this to see 695 billion baht in deficit, given an estimated 2.49 trillion baht in revenues throughout next fiscal year.
Over 2,000 of 3,955 Covid cases today in Bangkok
Although Thailand’s daily Covid tally dipped to 3,955 cases and 21 deaths today (May 31) as many as 2,167 cases had emerged in Bangkok.
Urgent! Election Commission has endorsed Chadchart as Bangkok governor
The Election Commission today (May 31) endorsed Chadchart Sittipunt as the governor of Bangkok despite complaints over his campaign posters.
Ukraine troops hold out as Russia assaults Sievierodonetsk wasteland
By Reuters and published by The Straits Times
Ukrainian troops are still holding out in a key city but it has now been cut in half while the EU reached an agreement to ban import of Russian oil by sea.
Election Commission puts off certifying Chadchart as Bangkok governor
The Election Commission today (May 30) put off certifying Chadchart Sittipunt as the new governor of Bangkok after his landslide victory amid complaints about his campaign posters.
5 of 10 uncertified winners of Bangkok council election from Pheu Thai Party
While the Election Commission certified city council election winners in 40 out of 50 Bangkok districts of the remaining 10 there are five from Pheu Thai Party.
Social media boiling with rage over Chadchart delay
The Thai social media seethed with rage at the Election Commission this evening (May 30) over its decision to put off endorsing Chadchart Sittipunt as Bangkok governor over complaints about his campaign posters.
4-year-old boy boy drowns at pool villa in Bang Saray
A four-year-old boy drowned at a pool villa in Bang Saray last night (May 29) while holidaying there with his family who are devastated by his death.
Opposition bloc to hammer Air Force’s plan to purchase unarmed F-35 fighters
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
The opposition bloc is gearing up to strongly disapprove air force’s plan to purchase unarmed F-35 Lightning II fighters and will also likely vote down the entire 2023 budget bill.
3 suspected monkeypox cases ‘found to be infected with herpes’
The Public Health Ministry said today (May 29) that three persons who were suspected to have been infected with monkeypox have now been found to have caught herpes.
Ukrainian defenders hold out in Donbas city under heavy fire
By Reuters and published by Channel NewsAsia
Ukrainian troops held on to the largest city in Luhansk despite huge Russian firepower while the EU failed to agree on a Russian oil embargo.
Indian tourists flocking to Thailand with over 100,000 holidaying here so far
Indians topped the list of tourist arrivals during Jan 1-May 24 with altogether 100,884 holidaying here during this period and it is expected the annual total will reach over 500,000.
Dr Taweesilp urges frequent antigen testing after catching Covid
As Covid administration’s spokesman Dr. Taweesilp Wisanuyothin too has caught this contagious disease, he now urges the public to frequently test themselves with antigen kits.
Nine drug runners die in gunfight with soldiers, 2.4m meth pills seized
Thai troops killed nine drug traffickers and seized 2.4 million methamphetamine pills in a shootout at the Thai-Myanmar border in Chiang Rai last night (May 27).
Russian gains in Ukraine’s east indicate a shift in momentum in the war
By Reuters and published by In-Cyprus
Russian forces have gained ground in Ukraine’s Donbas region, capturing the rail hub of Lyman, but Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy remained defiant.
Pattaya bustling as pubs, bars gear up to reopen on June 1
Pattaya pub and bar owners are busy cleaning their premises for D-Day June 1 when they will be reopening till midnight but initially most of the tourists will likely be Thai.
PM annoyed at being criticised for reading blank sheets of paper
Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha slammed critics for saying he was reading blank sheets of paper during his flight to Japan where he is attending the two-day Nikkei Forum.
Rung’s bail extended in crop top Section 112 case
Protest leader Panusaya Sitthichirawattanakul, or Rung, had her release on bail extended till December 27, 2022 in a Section 112 case, or the lese majeste law, involving wearing a crop top in a shopping mall.
K-pop supergroup BTS headed to the White House
By CNN
US President Joe Biden has invited K-pop stars BTS to the White House for a discussion on anti-Asian hate crimes and discrimination.
Foreign tourist seen driving on the wrong side of the road in Chiang Mai
A Facebook user spotted a foreign tourist driving on the wrong side of a road winding up and down a Chiang Mai hill and almost hitting a motorcyclist.
French woman biking in Ayutthaya dies after being hit by sedan
A French woman died after being hit by a sedan while biking across the road at an intersection in Ayutthaya city while an American woman biking along with her got injured with this accident blamed on traffic light confusion.
Thammanat claims to take command of 40 MPs
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
Thai Economic MP Thammanat Prompao is now in a stronger position with around 40 MPs in his camp who could link up with the opposition bloc to outvote the coalition government.
Thais in Japan hold anti-Prayut protest during Nikkei Forum
Thai people in Japan staged a protest against Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha during his visit to attend the 27th International Conference on the Future of Asia or Nikkei Forum.
Gen. Anupong: New Bangkok governor to decide train conconcession issue
Interior Minister Anupong Paochinda said in Parliament today (May 26) that the Bangkok Green Line train concession has not been extended with the new Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittiphan to decide this issue.
Debt collector who brutally beat up young woman arrested
A debt collector seen in a video clip cruelly beating up a young woman who did not have the money to pay up has been arrested and slapped with three charges.
20 splinter-party MPs might leave for Thai Economic Party
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
Twenty splinter-party MPs will likely join Thai Economic Party where Thammanat Prompao is ensconced because the organic law amendment makes it difficult for them to be reelected.
Texas school shooting victims were all in the same classroom, says state official
By Sky News
All the 19 children and two teachers killed in a Texas primary school by an 18-year-old gunman were in one classroom with those who worked with him saying he was the “quiet type” with an aggressive streak.
Monkeypox ‘more difficult to catch than Covid or smallpox’
A Thai expert allayed fears over the outbreak of monkeypox in a few countries by pointing out it is far more difficult to catch than Covid-19 or smallpox.
Emergency decree extended by another 2 months to control Covid
The Cabinet gave the green light to extend the state of emergency by another 2 months till end of July to control Covid-19 with there being 4,144 cases and 36 deaths today (May 24).
Russian and Chinese jets patrol East Asia skies, capping Biden trip
By Reuters, published by Financial Digest
Russian and Chinese jets flew near Japan’s airspace as US President Joe Biden ended an Asia trip after a Quad meeting there with this called a provocation.
Face mask rule to be eased in pilot areas soon
A senior Public Health Ministry official said today (May 24) that the face mask rule will be eased in pilot zones mid-June onwards amid quick improvement of the Covid-19 situation.
Chadchart denies cabbie turned him away
Bangkok’s new governor Chadchart Sittiphan cleared up a social media storm over a video clip that seems to show a cabbie refusing him a ride which he said was in fact because the driver was waiting for another passenger.
Chadchart’s landslide win deals crushing blow to Prayut regime: Academic
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
A Thammasat University academic said Chadchart Sittipunt’s huge victory in the Bangkok governor election is a crushing blow to the Prayut regime with the ripple effect to be felt nationwide.
Pareena slams Chadchart for comparing with Prayut
Former Palang Pracharat MP Pareena Kraikupt lambasted Bangkok governor election winner Chadchart Sittipunt for saying that he had got more votes than Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha did.
Chadchart’s recyclable campaign posters quickly disappear
Not only has Chadchart Sittipunt won the Bangkok governor election by a landslide, his recyclable campaign posters that can be turned into bags and aprons too quickly disappeared.
Krabi hospital can’t treat patients after thief stole X-ray machine
Krabi police are hunting for a thief who stole an X-ray machine from a hospital by pretending to be a patient thus seriously disrupting medical treatment.
Chadchart wins landslide victory as Bangkok governor
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
Former transport minister Chadchart Sittipunt romped to a landslide victory in the Bangkok gubernatorial election with a record 1.37 million-plus votes.
Chadchart vows to continue Aswin’s good projects
After getting over a million votes with 73.82% of the total counted, former transport minister Chadchart Sittipunt confirmed that he would continue good projects the former governor launched.
Heavy traffic on Bangkok governor election day
With all roads leading to polling stations today (May 22) as eager Bangkok residents cast their ballot in the gubernatorial election, Sunday transformed into a hectic weekday.
Chadchart topped three pre-election surveys
Former transport minister Chadchart Sittipunt topped three surveys conducted before the election while ballots were damaged at three stations.
Pounded by Russian offensive in the east, Ukraine rules out ceasefire
By Reuters and published by ChannelNews Asia
Ukraine ruled out a ceasefire or any deal with Moscow that involved ceding territory even as Russian forces intensified an offensive in the eastern Donbas region.
Police brutally beat up 3 wounded youths seeking help
Three youths who rode up to policemen seeking their help after being stabbed and chased by a rival gang were instead badly beaten up after they were found to be carrying a pistol.
Democrat candidate wins Ratchaburi’s by-election
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
Democrat Party’s candidate Mr. Chaitip Kamonpantip won the by-election in Ratchaburi today (May 21) replacing ex-Palang Pracharath MP Pareena Kraikupt, who was deprived by court of her MP status and banned for life from politics.
Doi Inthanon shut, Chiang Mai flooded after 200mm rain
Both Doi Inthanon National Park and other parts of Chiang Mai were flooded today (May 21) after the former got 200 millimetres of rain since last night and has now temporarily shut its tourist attractions.
Hunt for suspect who dumped foul-smelling oil at Rayong beach
Police are hunting for a man who a tourist saw dumping around 50 litres of bad-smelling oil at Rayong’s Mae Ramphung beach with the stench spreading to a nearby condo.
Entertainment venues allowed to reopen in blue, green provinces from June 1
The Centre for Covid-19 Situation Administration (CCSA) executive committee today (June 20) gave the green light for entertainment venues in blue and green provinces to reopen from June 1 onwards.
Man held for bashing Russian tourist’s head in Chonburi
A Thai man has been arrested for bashing the head of a Russian woman tourist as she was jogging near a forested reservoir in Chonburi on Thursday night then dragging her in there.
Russian forces step up east Ukraine campaign, more wounded leave Mariupol bastion
By Reuters and published by Financial Post
Russia launched massive artillery barrages in Donbas region hitting houses and killing civilians with Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskiy saying “it’s hell out there.”
Cambodia Airways inaugural Phnom Penh-Koh Samui flight warmly welcomed
There was a big tourism boost with the arrival of Cambodia Airways inaugural Phnom Penh-Koh Samui flight today (May 20) heralding the start of two weekly flights on this route.
Three nabbed in big drug bust near Thai-Lao border
Three suspects were arrested while transporting almost 9 million methamphetamine pills and 50 kilogrammes of Ketamine powder from the Thai-Lao border in Chiang Rai further inland.
Red shirts gather downtown Bangkok to mark crackdown in 2010
Red shirts rallied at Ratchaprasong intersection to mark the violent suppression of their protests in 2010 that left scores dead and over 2,000 injured with a key leader to give a speech about the Bangkok governor election.
Russell Crowe wants Bangkok governor candidates to answer 3 questions
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
The Bangkok governor election race took an interesting turn with Hollywood megastar Russell Crowe raising three questions for the candidates to answer at today’s TV Channel 7 debate.
Russia’s laser weapon claim derided as propaganda
By BBC
While Russia claimed that it is using a new generation of laser weapons in Ukraine, US said it has not seen this type of weapons used in the battlefield while Ukraine mocked it as propaganda.
MPs push for legalization of online gaming, casinos, underground lotteries
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
Pro-government MPs moved to amend the Gambling Act so as to bring immense sums of money to the state coffers that could then be used to reduce public debt.
Nightlife business operators lobby PM for reopening on June 1
Eight nightlife associations have petitioned Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha to allow the reopening of their establishments in 26 tourism provinces on June 1 and nationwide on July 1.
Loud complaints about Bangkok floods with garbage being blamed
Bangkok resonated with complaints about the flooding that began last evening and continued till today (May 18) with officials saying garbage stuck on drain grates obstructed drainage.
Putin takes Mariupol, but wider Donbas victory slipping from reach: Analysts
By Reuters and published by ChannelNews Asia
Even though Russia is taking full control of Mariupol, analysts doubt its dramatically weakened invasion force will be able to conquer all of Ukraine’s eastern Donbas.
Young Australian man falls to death from Phuket hotel
A young Australian man holidaying in Phuket with a group of friends plunged to his death from his hotel room at Patong beach.
20m baht damage at flooded Korat pottery market
Korat’s famed pottery market was heavily flooded after torrential rain last night with the damage of pottery and ceramic objects amounting to 20 million baht.
Heavy rush-hour rain triggers traffic snarl-ups in Bangkok
Evening rush-hour rain brought misery to Bangkok with this compounded by today being the first day of the new school year. Weathermen warned of more rain tomorrow.
Abhisit backs calls to end senators’ role in picking post-election PM
By Thai Newsroom Reporters
Former premier Abhisit Vejjajiva today (May 17) joined forces with pro-democracy groups in trying to stop unelected senators from having a role in voting for head of a post-election government.
Mariupol fighters in Russian hands; both sides claim wins
By AP, published US News & World Report, plus BBC
More than 260 fighters – some badly wounded – left the steel plant in Mariupol and were taken to Russian-controlled territory with both sides claiming a victory but of different kinds.
Bangkok’s daily Covid tally drops below 1,000, Phasi Charoen worst hit
Both national and Bangkok’s Covid tallies dropped again today (May 17) with the former totalling 3,893 cases and the latter 865 while Phasi Charoen district was the worst hit in the capital.
Analysis: Chadchart, Wiroj remain top favourites for Bangkok governor
By Out-Crowd
