Thai police bust major motorbike theft ring network

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2 April 2026, 10:17

Thai police bust major motorbike theft ring network

AYUTTHAYA — 2 April 2026, Police in Phra In Racha district of Ayutthaya have dismantled a major motorcycle theft ring operating across several provinces, with suspects allegedly stealing bikes to sell in neighbouring countries and seeking cash ahead of the Songkran festival.

Pol. Col. Chanun Prempluemjit, superintendent of Phra In Racha Police Station, said the operation followed an investigation into a network responsible for multiple thefts nationwide. Chat messages recovered from suspects indicated they were targeting funds for Songkran spending, and a minor was also found to be involved.

The case began on 29 March 2026 at 06:00, when investigators were notified of the theft of two Honda Wave 110i motorcycles from a dormitory car park at Pratunam Phra In Market in Chiang Rak Noi, Bang Pa-in district. CCTV footage showed four suspects using two vehicles, with clearly assigned roles, committing the theft at around 04:11 before fleeing along Phahon Yothin Road towards Highway 9 and into Nonthaburi’s Bang Bua Thong district.

Later that day, police arrested the first suspect, Jiraphat, 26, also known as “Tee”, and seized clothing and a mobile phone containing evidence of communication with accomplices and money transfers linked to motorcycle sales.

Further investigation led to the arrest of two more suspects, Athiphan, 26, alias “Benz”, and a 16-year-old male, along with a pickup truck used in the crimes in Wang Noi district. Officers also recovered four stolen motorcycles hidden in Bangkok. The suspects admitted their role was to collect and store the vehicles before handing them over to financiers, earning about 3,000 baht per bike.

On 31 March 2026, police arrested a fourth suspect, Suthat, 26, alias “Long”, in Bang Bua Thong district while he was dismantling motorcycle parts. He confessed to being part of the network, which carried out thefts in multiple areas.

Mobile phone evidence revealed plans to intensify thefts during the Songkran period. Police said the network operated in several provinces, including Ayutthaya, Pathum Thani, Nonthaburi and Chonburi, and is believed to have stolen nearly 100 motorcycles. The vehicles were stored temporarily before being smuggled via border routes in Ubon Ratchathani province and sold for between 17,000 and 30,000 baht each.

The suspects face charges of joint theft at night using vehicles. Police have warned motorcycle owners to remain vigilant, particularly during Songkran, when thefts tend to rise. All suspects have been handed over to investigators for legal proceedings, while efforts continue to track down remaining members of the network.

Phuket nabs Chinese fraud suspect in 5m Baht scam case

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Khaosod English

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2 April 2026, 09:30

Phuket nabs Chinese fraud suspect in 5m Baht scam case

PHUKET — 1 April 2026, Immigration police in Phuket have arrested a 32-year-old Chinese man wanted on fraud charges in China, with damages estimated at more than 5 million baht.

The operation follows a directive from senior Immigration Bureau officers to intensify a crackdown on foreign nationals entering Thailand to evade prosecution abroad or engage in transnational crime.

Pol. Col. Charoenphong Khantiloh, superintendent of Satun Immigration and spokesperson for Immigration Division 6, said the arrest was made after coordination with the Chinese Embassy in Thailand via the Royal Thai Police’s Foreign Affairs Division. Authorities were asked to locate, revoke the suspect’s permission to stay and deport him to China, as he was believed to be hiding in Phuket.

Immigration officers tracked the suspect to a condominium in the Patong area of Kathu district. The arrest team took the man, identified as Wang, into custody at the residence.

According to Chinese authorities, Wang is the subject of an arrest warrant issued by the Xinmin branch of the Public Security Bureau in Shenyang, Liaoning province, on charges of “contract fraud”. Investigators allege that he deceived more than 30 victims by claiming to sell billiards equipment, using fake shipping videos and fabricated documents to induce them to sign contracts and transfer money. After receiving payments, he failed to deliver the goods, stalled for time, cut off contact and fled abroad. Total damages are estimated at over 1 million yuan.

Immigration records show Wang entered Thailand on a tourist visa that had not yet expired. Officials subsequently sought and obtained approval to revoke his permission to stay on the grounds that he is a foreign national wanted under a warrant issued by a foreign government.

He was later located at the Patong condominium. Upon being approached, Wang confirmed his identity to officers and was taken to Phuket Immigration for formal notification of the revocation order. He remains in custody pending further legal proceedings.

Pattaya police detain 31 transgender women in crackdown on tourist incidents

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Khaosod English

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1 April 2026, 19:45

PATTAYA — Police in Pattaya launched an early-morning crackdown on transgender women following a series of widely reported incidents involving tourists.

At around 04:00 on 1 April 2026, Pol. Col. Anek Sarathongyu, superintendent of Pattaya City Police Station, joined Bang Lamung district chief Anusak Piriyamorn and more than 30 officers in an operation targeting areas where the group is known to gather.

The operation focused on Walking Street in South Pattaya, a major nightlife area popular with both Thai and foreign visitors. Authorities said the move followed multiple cases in which groups of transgender women were accused of harassing or committing offences against tourists, drawing public attention in recent weeks.

A total of 31 individuals were detained and taken to Pattaya City Police Station for questioning.

Police said those detained would have their records taken as part of efforts to monitor repeat offenders and facilitate identification in future cases. Officials added that similar operations would continue in a bid to prevent further incidents and maintain Pattaya’s image as a safe tourist destination.

Sun-dried clams return as seasonal delicacy in Phatthalung

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Khaosod English

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1 April 2026, 18:23

PHATTHALUNG — A traditional summer delicacy, sun-dried clams, is drawing attention among locals around Songkhla Lake, with villagers producing the dish for only a few months each year.

At Ban A Phat in Khao Chaison district, residents take advantage of the hot, sunny weather from early March to early May to harvest the small freshwater clams, locally known as “hoi tak,” from sandy sediment near the mouth of Khlong Bang Kaeo.

Using rake-like tools, villagers spend hours dragging along the lakeshore to collect the clams before cleaning them thoroughly and soaking them in water for about six hours. The clams are then mixed with crushed lemongrass, shallots, garlic and spices, salted and left to marinate overnight.

The following morning, they are spread on zinc sheets under the sun until midday, allowing the heat to dry and cook the clams, resulting in a distinctive salty-sweet flavour.

Lao Pluasawat, 54, said she spends around three hours each morning collecting the clams before preparing and drying them at home. By early afternoon, passing motorists often stop to buy the product, priced at 20 baht per cup or 70 baht per kilogram.

She said daily production ranges from 20 to 30 kilograms, providing supplementary income alongside farming.

The seasonal nature of the process means the clams are available for only about four months a year, when weather conditions are ideal for sun-drying. Some consumers prefer to boil the clams before eating.

The delicacy, long passed down through generations, remains popular among communities around Songkhla Lake. Ban A Phat is considered the only village in Phatthalung that continues to produce and sell sun-dried clams in this traditional way.

The product is available for purchase in front of Wat Phra Borommathat Wat Khian Bang Kaeo in Khao Chaison district.

Thailand’s Leading Coconut Milk Manufacturer for Beverage Brands

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MC Marketing

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1 April 2026, 17:02

As global consumer preferences shift toward plant-based alternatives and dairy-free innovation, coconut milk has emerged as one of the most versatile and commercially valuable ingredients in the beverage industry. From barista-style lattes and ready-to-drink smoothies to functional wellness beverages, coconut milk is now positioned at the center of beverage formulation worldwide.

Amid this growing demand, Thailand has strengthened its reputation as a preferred sourcing hub for beverage manufacturers seeking high-quality, export-ready coconut milk. With its rich agricultural resources, established processing infrastructure, and international food safety compliance, Thailand is increasingly recognized as a global leader in producing what many brands consider the best coconut milk for beverages.

The Rise of Coconut Milk in Modern Beverage Innovation

The surge in dairy-free and plant-based consumption has fundamentally reshaped the beverage landscape. Consumers are demanding alternatives that are not only lactose-free but also creamy, flavorful, and suitable for specialty drinks. Coconut milk delivers on all fronts.

For café chains and baristas, coconut milk offers a naturally smooth texture and subtle sweetness that complements espresso and tea-based drinks. For product developers, it provides a stable base for functional beverages enriched with vitamins, proteins, or adaptogens. As a result, sourcing a reliable coconut milk supplier for baristas and beverage manufacturers has become a strategic priority.

Thailand’s coconut milk industry has responded to this demand by scaling both quality and capacity, positioning itself as a trusted OEM coconut milk UHT supplier for international brands.

Strategic Sourcing from High-Yield Coconut Regions

One of Thailand’s key advantages lies in its agricultural geography. Regions such as Thap Sakae District in Prachuap Province are renowned for cultivating coconuts with exceptionally high fat yields and naturally aromatic profiles. These coconuts are particularly suited for beverage applications that require creaminess without artificial thickeners.

The tropical climate allows for consistent harvesting cycles, ensuring seasonal availability and supply predictability throughout the year. For international beverage companies, this means reduced raw material risk and greater pricing stability.

Thai coconuts are known for:

Naturally sweet flavor profiles
Aromatic characteristics that enhance beverage formulations
High fat content ideal for creamy textures

These attributes are especially important for brands developing high fat coconut milk for export markets, where consistency and sensory quality directly impact brand perception.

This dual-region sourcing model, combined with Bangkok’s role as a major Southeast Asian logistics hub, gives Thai manufacturers a distinct edge in supply reliability and export speed. International buyers benefit from access to diversified growing zones and efficient port connectivity, reducing both lead times and raw material risk.

From Extraction to UHT Sterilization: Manufacturing Excellence

Behind every high-quality coconut milk product is a sophisticated manufacturing process. Leading Thai producers employ advanced extraction systems that begin with fresh coconut meat pressing and proceed through precise blending to achieve targeted fat levels.

Manufacturers typically offer customizable fat content ranging from 5 percent for lighter beverage blends to 22% for rich, cream-forward formulations. This flexibility allows beverage brands to tailor their products according to market preferences, whether for low-calorie smoothies or indulgent coconut-based lattes.

UHT sterilization technology plays a critical role in maintaining both safety and shelf life. Through ultra-high temperature treatment, coconut milk can be preserved for extended periods without refrigeration prior to opening. This makes Thailand a reliable OEM coconut milk UHT supplier for international markets where long transit times are common.

Packaging options include:

Retail cans suitable for supermarkets
Aseptic cartons designed for beverage production lines
Bulk packaging for industrial-scale use

Export logistics are optimized for both cold chain and ambient shipping, depending on product specifications and client requirements. For beverage companies managing global distribution networks, this logistical flexibility provides a clear operational advantage.

What Differentiates Thai Coconut Milk Suppliers

In an increasingly competitive global market, differentiation comes down to compliance, stability, and innovation.

Leading Thai factories operate under internationally recognized certifications such as BRC, IFS, GHPs, and BSCI. These certifications ensure that production meets stringent food safety, hygiene, and ethical standards, allowing smoother access to markets in the European Union, the United States, Japan, and the Middle East.

Beyond certification, formulation stability is a crucial factor for beverage applications. Coconut milk used in ready-to-drink products must maintain emulsion stability, prevent separation, and retain flavor consistency over time. Thai manufacturers invest in homogenization and quality control processes to ensure batch-to-batch reliability.

The industry’s ability to support product innovation further enhances its global appeal. Coconut milk is now being integrated into:

Barista-style coconut lattes
Plant-based protein beverages
Functional wellness drinks
Dairy-free iced teas and specialty coffees

As demand for plant-based drink ingredients Thailand continues to grow, manufacturers are increasingly collaborating with beverage brands to co-develop tailored solutions.

OEM and Private Label: Accelerating Brand Growth

For emerging beverage brands and established café chains alike, OEM production in Thailand offers a strategic pathway to market expansion.

Thai coconut milk manufacturers provide private label and OEM services that include customized fat ratios, packaging design, labeling compliance, and flexible minimum order quantities. This enables both startups and multinational beverage companies to develop proprietary coconut milk products without investing in their own processing facilities.

Several café chains and wellness-focused beverage brands have leveraged Thailand’s OEM capabilities to introduce coconut-based drink lines that align with clean-label and plant-based positioning. By partnering with an experienced manufacturer, brands can accelerate time to market while maintaining full control over product identity.

The advantage lies not only in production scale but also in responsiveness. Shorter lead times and streamlined export documentation allow brands to react quickly to shifting consumer trends and seasonal demand.

Supporting the Global Plant-Based Movement

The global transition toward sustainable, plant-based consumption continues to influence purchasing decisions across regions. Coconut milk stands out as a naturally dairy-free ingredient that appeals to environmentally conscious consumers.

Thailand’s well-established coconut farming and processing ecosystem supports this shift by offering traceability and responsible sourcing practices. Beverage brands seeking a coconut milk supplier for baristas or large-scale production benefit from working with manufacturers who understand both quality and sustainability expectations.

In a market where consumers increasingly scrutinize ingredient origins and production standards, transparency has become a competitive advantage.

A Strategic Partner for Beverage Innovation

As global beverage brands compete to meet evolving consumer demands, sourcing decisions play a critical role in long-term success. Thailand’s combination of agricultural strength, advanced manufacturing, international compliance, and OEM flexibility makes it a preferred destination for companies seeking the best coconut milk for beverages.

Finding the Right Manufacturing Partner

For beverage brands evaluating sourcing options, the difference between a reliable partner and a generic commodity supplier often comes down to formulation flexibility and regulatory readiness.

Manufacturers based in Thailand’s central processing corridor, including Bangkok-based facilities with direct export infrastructure, are increasingly preferred by international brands for their ability to handle both small-batch development runs and large-scale commercial production under a single OEM framework.

One example of this integrated approach is Erawan Food, a Thailand-based manufacturer specializing in high fat coconut milk for export and UHT coconut milk supply across beverage categories. The company’s OEM program supports private label development from formulation to export documentation — a structure that has attracted partnerships with café chains, wellness drink brands, and specialty importers across Asia, Europe, and the Middle East.

For beverage companies at the product development stage, the priority should be selecting a supplier that offers not just raw material, but formulation support, compliance documentation, and consistent batch-to-batch quality. These are the factors that separate a short-term vendor from a long-term growth partner.

As the plant-based beverage segment continues to mature, sourcing strategies will increasingly determine product differentiation. Brands that invest in understanding their ingredient supply chain — from coconut variety and fat content to UHT processing and shelf stability — will be better positioned to meet evolving consumer expectations.

For those ready to explore OEM production or private label development in Thailand, reviewing manufacturer capabilities early in the formulation process typically leads to faster time-to-market and stronger product outcomes.

For brands ready to elevate their coconut milk product line or explore OEM and export partnerships, Erawan Food welcomes direct inquiries from beverage innovators, distributors, and private label businesses worldwide.

Interested companies can reach the team at [email protected] or contact the sales department directly at +66 86 900 7777 for product specifications and partnership discussions.

Thick haze blankets Pai as wildfires rage in north

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Khaosod English

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1 April 2026, 17:01

Thick haze blankets Pai as wildfires rage in north

MAE HONG SON — 1 April 2026, Pai district remains shrouded in dense haze as wildfires continue to burn across mountainous areas, pushing air pollution to hazardous levels, officials said.

Authorities reported that Pai, Mueang Mae Hong Son and Mae Sariang districts are experiencing PM2.5 levels in the red and purple zones, indicating severe health risks.

At 07:00, 24-hour average PM2.5 readings reached 293.1 micrograms per cubic metre in Pai, 147.3 in Mueang Mae Hong Son and 145.6 in Mae Sariang, all far exceeding safe standards.

Governor Wiboon Waewbundit chaired an emergency “war room” meeting at 08:00 to monitor wildfire and haze conditions, as officials warned the situation remains critical.

Data showed 3,851 hotspot detections between 1 January and 31 March, with Pai recording the highest number at 845. Most fires were found in protected forest areas.

The governor has ordered a strict ban on entering conservation forests from 1 February to 30 April, warning violators face legal action. Arrests have already been made for illegal entry, hunting and deliberate forest burning.

Firefighting efforts have been hampered by steep terrain, making many areas inaccessible to ground crews. Authorities have deployed helicopters to drop water on active fires, completing 28 flights and releasing more than 14,000 litres of water in a single day, with further operations planned.

Officials said additional aircraft have been requested to support containment efforts, particularly in areas where fires continue to spread beyond the reach of ground teams.

Despite ongoing operations, volunteers and officials are struggling to fully extinguish the fires, with smouldering debris and inaccessible mountain zones allowing flames to persist.

Authorities also cited cross-border haze from neighbouring countries and weather conditions, including temperature inversions trapping smoke in valleys, as factors worsening air quality.

Disaster officials warned of at least seven active fire clusters burning for more than six hours as of 15:03 on 1 April, raising concerns over potential large-scale wildfires.

Residents have been urged to take precautions as the crisis continues, with officials acknowledging that significant rainfall may be the only effective way to clear the haze.

Thailand to shift cannabis shops into medical clinics

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Khaosod English

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1 April 2026, 15:34

Thailand to shift cannabis shops into medical clinics

BANGKOK — 1 April 2026, Thailand’s public health minister said the government will press ahead with its medical cannabis policy, including plans to convert about 11,000 licensed cannabis shops into regulated medical clinics.

Speaking at the Ministry of Public Health, Public Health Minister Pattana Prompat said the move forms part of broader efforts to tighten oversight of cannabis use, from cultivation and extraction to distribution, while focusing on medical applications.

The announcement followed a senior ministry meeting reviewing key policies, including Thailand’s push to join the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), which requires improvements in healthcare standards, service quality and system management.

Pattana said new regulations are being developed in three main areas: clarifying regulatory authority, transitioning cannabis retailers into healthcare facilities, and ensuring cannabis is used primarily for medical purposes. Existing operators will be given a transition period of about three years to comply.

Currently, around 11,000 cannabis shops are registered nationwide, with 30–40% of licences expiring each year. Under the new framework, businesses will be required to operate as licensed medical facilities with qualified healthcare personnel on site.

The ministry also plans to introduce a database and visible storefront markers to allow the public to verify licensing status.

Pattana highlighted the economic potential of medical cannabis, particularly in extraction and processing, which could support domestic use and future exports under strict regulatory standards.

Separately, the ministry is promoting the use of traditional Thai herbal medicine within the healthcare system, backed by a budget of more than 2 billion baht from the National Health Security Office. About half of the funds have already been disbursed in the first half of the fiscal year, with full utilisation targeted by year’s end.

Officials are also reviewing healthcare infrastructure standards to better withstand natural disasters, drawing on lessons from recent floods and landslides. Measures include relocating critical systems such as oxygen supply points and electrical equipment to safer areas.

The meeting further addressed challenges in managing health insurance for migrant workers and foreign nationals, particularly those outside formal employment systems, as well as ongoing health concerns linked to PM2.5 air pollution in northern Thailand.

Axe-wielding neighbour leaves woman living in fear

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Khaosod English

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1 April 2026, 15:08

Axe-wielding neighbour leaves woman living in fear

PRACHUAP KHIRI KHAN — 1 April 2026, a 46-year-old woman has appealed to authorities for urgent help after enduring years of harassment and threats from a neighbour she says is heavily drug-affected, raising fears for her safety.

Orapin, known as “Pin”, living in a municipal area of Khlong Wan in Mueang Prachuap Khiri Khan district, said the incidents have persisted for several years, leaving her in constant fear.

The neighbour, identified as Yodchai, 46, lives opposite her home and is accused of repeated aggressive behaviour, often at night. He has allegedly kicked her gate, shouted abuse, shone a torch into the house and fired stones from a slingshot at the property. On some occasions, he reportedly carried a metal pipe and even an axe while approaching the house.

The latest incident occurred at 22:04 on 29 March 2026, when he allegedly kicked the gate with such force that it shook violently and partially came off its track, narrowly avoiding damage to a parked car.

Orapin said she is often alone at home during the day while her sisters are at work. Her husband works in Phuket and returns only once a month, while her two sons study outside the area, heightening her sense of vulnerability, particularly when she must open the gate for customers.

She also alleged that before installing the gate, the neighbour had engaged in voyeuristic behaviour and committed indecent acts in front of women in the neighbourhood. Residents, many of them elderly in the small seven-house community, are aware of his behaviour but are too afraid to intervene.

Orapin said she has reported the incidents to police multiple times over the past four to five years and was advised to collect evidence, leading her to install CCTV cameras. While officers have occasionally detained or warned the man, she said the measures have failed to stop the harassment.

Authorities said the suspect has a long history of substance abuse. He has also reportedly assaulted family members, in incidents that required police intervention.

Orapin urged relevant agencies to step in, detain the suspect and ensure he receives proper treatment, warning that without intervention the situation could escalate into serious violence and further endanger the community.

Serial burglar held over raids on foreign homes

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Khaosod English

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1 April 2026, 13:44

Serial burglar held over raids on foreign homes

CHIANG MAI — 1 April 2026, Police in northern Thailand have arrested a 39-year-old man accused of a string of night-time burglaries targeting homes of foreign residents, with losses estimated at more than 50,000 baht.

The suspect, identified as Sitthi (surname withheld), from Inthakhin subdistrict in Mae Taeng district, was detained by officers from Phu Phing Ratchaniwet Police Station.

Police said items seized included about 50,000 baht in cash, foreign banknotes, a mobile phone, clothing allegedly worn during the offences and a motorcycle believed to have been used in the crimes.

He faces charges of night-time theft using a vehicle to facilitate the offence or evade arrest, a serious offence under Thai law.

Investigators said the suspect would scout potential targets during the day by riding a motorcycle, focusing mainly on houses or rental rooms occupied by foreigners. He would then return at night to break in and steal valuables.

Police said further investigation indicated the suspect had carried out similar offences across multiple areas before being tracked down and arrested by the Phu Phing Ratchaniwet investigative team.

The suspect has been handed over to investigators for legal proceedings.

Cabinet backs UNESCO bid for ‘Nang Yai’ revival as global cultural diplomacy push

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Khaosod English

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1 April 2026, 13:30

BANGKOK — The Cabinet has approved a proposal to nominate “The Revival of Nang Yai by Nang Yai Communities in Thailand” for inscription with the UNESCO under the category of “Good Safeguarding Practices of Intangible Cultural Heritage,” marking Thailand’s first submission in this category.

Culture Minister Sabida Thaiset said on 26 March 2026 that the Cabinet also authorised the Director-General of the Department of Cultural Promotion, in their capacity as secretary to the national cultural heritage committee, to sign and submit the nomination dossier by 31 March 2026, in line with the deadline.

20260327103901 6994 — Culture Minister Sabida Thaiset

Sabida said the move represents a key step in advancing Thailand’s cultural diplomacy by promoting the value of community-led heritage preservation on the global stage.

“Nang Yai is not merely a performing art, but a living heritage that reflects the strength of communities in preserving, revitalising and passing on traditions from generation to generation,” she said.

The nomination builds on local success and aims to elevate it to policy and international recognition. It highlights the work of three communities: Wat Khanon in Ratchaburi, Wat Ban Don in Rayong, and Wat Sawang Arom in Sing Buri, which have played central roles in reviving Nang Yai both domestically and internationally.

Nang Yai is a traditional Thai shadow play featuring large, intricately carved leather puppets that are performed against a backlit screen. The performances combine storytelling, music and dance, and have been passed down through generations as a vibrant form of community-based cultural heritage.

Sabida noted that the Wat Khanon community previously received an award from the Asia/Pacific Cultural Centre for UNESCO (ACCU) in June 2007 for its outstanding efforts in safeguarding intangible cultural heritage, demonstrating the strong potential of Thai communities in cultural conservation.

She said the nomination is fully prepared in terms of documentation, content and community participation. Missing the 31 March deadline would delay the submission by one year and could cost Thailand an opportunity to strengthen its cultural presence on the international stage.

“This is a crucial moment for Thailand to affirm its cultural role globally and create pride among the Thai people,” she said.

The minister added that the push to list Nang Yai is not only about preserving cultural heritage, but also about using culture as a creative force to foster mutual understanding and connect people worldwide in a sustainable way.

The Rise of Coconut Milk in Modern Beverage Innovation

Strategic Sourcing from High-Yield Coconut Regions

From Extraction to UHT Sterilization: Manufacturing Excellence

What Differentiates Thai Coconut Milk Suppliers

OEM and Private Label: Accelerating Brand Growth

Supporting the Global Plant-Based Movement

A Strategic Partner for Beverage Innovation

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