‘Mr. Spray’ apologises to Koh Phangan locals, cites concerns over alleged war criminals on the island

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4 February 2026, 14:09

news107779_8kkF1nkisU1770015318 — A foreign tourist at the centre of the Koh Phangan graffiti controversy speaks to Khaosod English.

A foreign tourist has sparked outrage on Koh Phangan after images circulated online showing him spray-painting English messages across public spaces and official signs at more than 40 locations on the island.

The graffiti included slogans such as “SAVE GAZA” on roadside public information signs and “LIBRE” — meaning “free” in Spanish or French — on electricity poles. Other markings appeared on roads, rubbish bins, traffic signs and kilometre markers, many of which are state property. Locals have dubbed the man “Mr. Spray”.

On Tuesday, 4 February, Mr. Spray contacted Khaosod English to clarify what happened. He said he loves Thailand and has visited frequently since his first trip in 2001, adding that Thailand and Thai people have always treated him well. He said he is particularly fond of Koh Phangan.

However, he said he was shocked by changes on the island during his latest visit, claiming there are now many Israelis living there long term. He said he believes that some war criminals are residing in Thailand, a claim that made him deeply uncomfortable, and that he wanted to send a message.

“My intent was to remind Israeli of their history and ask for discourse regarding war criminals,” he said.

Mr. Spray added that in Europe he has taken part in protests opposing Israel’s actions. He apologised for his actions, saying: “I am sorry for the damage I caused to private property,” and “I am sorry for upsetting the Phangan local community.”

He said he did not expect the incident to become major news and is now worried. He reiterated that local residents have always treated him well and said he wants to apologise directly to them. He said his options now are limited, including fleeing, turning himself in to police, or helping clean the signs he spray-painted.

In recent years, Koh Phangan, Koh Samui and several other destinations in Thailand have seen an increase in long-term Israeli visitors. There have been occasional complaints from local residents, including reports of “No Israel” signs at some restaurants on Koh Phangan and IDF (Israel Defense Forces) stickers appearing in some public areas.

Foreign tourists mistake funeral for food court, welcomed with Thai food

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Khaosod English

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3 February 2026, 17:32

qqqqqqttt — A group of foreign tourists sit down at a Thai funeral in Nakhon Si Thammarat, mistaking the ceremony for a food court.

A video showing foreign tourists being warmly welcomed at a funeral in southern Thailand has gone viral, drawing praise online for Thai kindness and cultural openness.

The clip, shared by a Facebook user, shows the moment several foreign tourists walked into a funeral being held in Khanom district, Nakhon Si Thammarat, mistakenly believing it was a food court. The funeral was taking place near a night market, and hosts were serving evening meals to guests, in line with local tradition.

According to the post, the tourists approached a table and asked whether the area was a food court. When the hosts explained that it was a funeral, the visitors appeared shocked but politely asked if they could remain seated. The hosts agreed without hesitation, and the family of the deceased went on to serve them food and drinks, including Thai iced tea, pink milk and pa thong ko (fried dough), as is customary at community funerals.

The following day, a similar incident occurred when three Dutch siblings entered the same funeral, again mistaking it for a food court and asking to order drinks. After learning it was a funeral, the hosts explained the situation and invited them to join the meal. The visitors were reportedly delighted and deeply impressed by the generosity shown.

The video has been widely shared on social media, with many users praising the hosts for their compassion and welcoming attitude, describing the moment as a reflection of Thai values and community spirit. Others noted that the incident highlighted cultural differences, while also showing how simple acts of kindness can leave a lasting impression on visitors.

The uploader said the foreigners later expressed gratitude and said they would remember the experience as a unique and touching example of Thai hospitality.

UNESCO to send team to survey Chiang Mai for world heritage status

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Khaosod English

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3 February 2026, 17:23

Royal Pavilion (Ho Kum Luang) Lanna style pavilion in Royal Flora Rajapruek Park botanical garden, Chiang Mai, Thailand.

CHIANG MAI — UNESCO is preparing to send an inspection team to Chiang Mai in June as Thailand steps up efforts to have the northern city listed as a World Heritage site.

Pichai Lertpongadisorn, president of the Chiang Mai Provincial Administrative Organisation (PAO), said on 3 February that UNESCO has agreed to conduct an on-site assessment after Thailand submitted its completed nomination dossier earlier this year. The bid has been in progress since 2015.

The inspection will cover eight key cultural landscape sites, with the aim of recognising Chiang Mai, once the capital of the ancient Lanna Kingdom, as a “living heritage” city. The concept refers to heritage areas that remain actively inhabited and where traditions continue to be practised, rather than closed archaeological sites.

The eight locations include seven major temples

Wat Chiang Man
Wat Phra Singh
Wat Chedi Luang
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
Wat Suan Dok
Wat Chet Yot
Wat Umong

as well as the historic city layout, including the five city gates, four corner bastions and the old moat.

Mr Pichai said the initiative has received broad support, including a 5-million-baht budget from the Chiang Mai PAO and contributions from local communities, academics and civil society groups who have jointly carried out research and fundraising.

If the June inspection proceeds as planned, an official decision is expected later this year. Local authorities say World Heritage status would strengthen conservation efforts while supporting sustainable economic and tourism development in Chiang Mai.

AIS Reinforces Leadership in Sustainable Business with High ESG Ratings from MSCI and SET

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MC Marketing

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3 February 2026, 15:18

AIS Reinforces Leadership in Sustainable Business with High ESG Ratings from MSCI and SET, Reflecting Strong Confidence from Domestic and Global Capital Markets

Advanced Info Service Public Company Limited (AIS) has received an MSCI ESG Rating of AA, a high-level rating that places the Company in the “ESG Leader” category. AIS is the only Thai telecommunications company to achieve this rating from MSCI (Morgan Stanley Capital International), a global leader in investment indices, research, and data. The rating reflects AIS’s strong capability in managing financially material environmental, social, and governance (ESG) risks and opportunities, supporting long-term value creation and sustainable competitiveness when benchmarked against global industry peers.

In addition, AIS has been awarded an ESG Rating of AAA, the highest level, by the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET), reinforcing the Company’s robust and systematic approach to responsible and transparent business practices across the entire value chain, in alignment with good corporate governance standards.

AIS is committed to sustainable business under the vision “To lead a sustainable Thai digital society through ecosystems and partnerships.” By integrating digital innovation across its operations, AIS balances business growth with environmental and social responsibility, delivering tangible outcomes that reduce greenhouse gas emissions, promote digital citizenship, and enhance quality of life for Thais.

Recognition from both MSCI at the international level and the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET) at the national level underscores AIS’s effective integration of ESG considerations into its corporate strategy, governance framework, and enterprise risk management processes. This integration serves as a key mechanism in supporting long-term strategic growth and creating sustainable value across economic, social, and environmental dimensions in the digital economy, while meeting the expectations of key stakeholders, particularly investors, analysts, and financial institutions both in Thailand and internationally.

Jomtien Sea turns black after wastewater discharge

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Khaosod English

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3 February 2026, 14:16

Dark wastewater seen flowing into the sea at Jomtien Beach.

CHONBURI — A clip showing wastewater being discharged into the sea at Jomtien Beach in Bang Lamung district has gone viral on social media, prompting concern after seawater in the area turned black.

The footage, shared widely on Facebook, shows dark wastewater flowing into the sea along the Jomtien beachfront, raising alarm among residents and tourists.

Reporters who visited the site found the affected area was part of an ongoing Jomtien Beach landscape improvement project. Contractors were carrying out drainage works, including the installation of drainage pipes and the flushing of pipes connected to rainwater retention ponds designed to prevent flooding during heavy rainfall.

The Pattaya Mayor’s Office said a complaint had been filed with Pattaya City Police against the contractor responsible for releasing wastewater into the sea. Authorities have also ordered immediate corrective action.

According to the city, the discharge occurred at about 10.00am on 2 February. The Pattaya mayor instructed relevant officials to lodge a formal complaint and pursue legal action without delay. A team of city scientists has also collected water samples from the area for quality testing to ensure public and tourist safety.

Officials said further action would be taken in line with the law once the investigation and water quality tests are completed.

Thailand appointed chair of UN space science subcommittee

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Khaosod English

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3 February 2026, 13:45

VIENNA — Thailand has been appointed chair of the United Nations’ Scientific and Technical Subcommittee (STSC) for 2026, marking a major step in the country’s role in shaping global space governance.

The appointment was confirmed on 2 February at the UN headquarters in Vienna, under the United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (UN COPUOS), the UN’s highest forum for setting direction and governance on space activities.

Dr. Pakorn Apaphant, executive director of the Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA) under the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, was named chair of the STSC. He will preside over meetings and guide discussions amid growing geopolitical challenges in multilateral space cooperation.

Dr. Pakorn said the appointment was an honour for Thailand, noting that UN COPUOS is the UN’s main mechanism for overseeing global space activities. The committee operates through two key subcommittees — the Legal Subcommittee and the Scientific and Technical Subcommittee — with the STSC serving as the core technical forum.

Key issues under the STSC include space debris, space weather, the long-term sustainability of outer space activities and space traffic management, which form the basis for future international guidelines and cooperative frameworks.

Dr. Pakorn said building consensus remained a major challenge due to differences in national capabilities, expertise and interests among member states. As chair, he said the role required not only technical knowledge but also diplomacy, negotiation and compromise to ensure balanced and constructive progress.

Thailand’s selection reflects confidence from the international community, he said. Of the 110 UN COPUOS member states, only 14 countries have previously chaired the STSC, making Thailand the 15th to hold the position.

He said the role would help raise Thailand’s profile in global space affairs, showcase the country’s technological capabilities and open opportunities for future cooperation and growth in the space economy. It also sets an example for other countries, particularly in Southeast Asia, to play a greater role on the global stage.

Dr. Pakorn added that the appointment could inspire Thai youth by highlighting opportunities in STEM and space sciences, helping to build skilled human resources for long-term national development.

GISTDA will work closely with Thailand’s Permanent Mission to the United Nations in Vienna and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to coordinate with member states, maintain diplomatic neutrality and act as a bridge to promote sustainable global cooperation in space.

China criticizes decision to award a Grammy to the Dalai Lama

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Associated Press

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3 February 2026, 12:45

68th Annual Grammy Awards - Show — Rufus Wainwright, center, accepts the award for best audio book, narration, and storytelling recording for "Meditations: The Reflections of His Holiness The Dalai Lama" on behalf of Dalai Lama during the 68th annual Grammy Awards on Sunday, Feb. 1, 2026, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Chris Pizzello)

BEIJING (AP) — Beijing on Monday criticized the Dalai Lama ’s first Grammy win, describing the music industry award for an audiobook, narration and storytelling as “a tool for anti-China political manipulation.”

The Tibetan Buddhist spiritual leader, who lives in exile in India, took the award on Sunday for his book, “Meditations: The Reflections of His Holiness the Dalai Lama.”

He said in a statement on his website that he saw the award “as a recognition of our shared universal responsibility.”

“I receive this recognition with gratitude and humility,” he added.

China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said: “It is well known that the 14th Dalai Lama is not merely a religious figure but a political exile engaged in anti-China separatist activities under the guise of religion.”

“We firmly oppose the relevant party using the award as a tool for anti-China political manipulation,” he added.

The Dalai Lama, who is seen by many as the face of Tibet’s struggle for autonomy, has lived in exile since 1959, when Chinese troops crushed an uprising in the Tibetan capital of Lhasa.

China, which governs Tibet as an autonomous region, has been accused of trying to stamp out the Tibetan language, culture and identity.

Beijing and the Dalai Lama also spar over the spiritual leader’s eventual successor. Tibetan Buddhists believe the Dalai Lamas are reincarnations of a spiritual leader first born in 1391.

Beijing maintains the next Dalai Lama will be born in Tibet and recognized by the ruling Communist Party, whereas the Dalai Lama has said his successor will be from a free country and that China has no role in the process.

Tourist sprays ‘SAVE GAZA’ across 40 locations on Koh Phangan, sparking outrage

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Khaosod English

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3 February 2026, 12:32

SURAT THANI — A foreign tourist has sparked outrage on Koh Phangan after images circulated online showing him spray-painting English messages across public spaces and official signs on the island.

The incident, which surfaced on social media on 2 February, drew strong backlash from local residents and business operators, who dubbed the man “Mr. Spray”. Photos shared by a Facebook user show the tourist allegedly using red spray paint to mark more than 40 locations around the island.

The graffiti included slogans such as “SAVE GAZA” sprayed on roadside public information signs and “LIBRE” — meaning “free” in Spanish or French — on electricity poles. Other markings appeared on roads, rubbish bins, traffic signs and kilometre markers, many of which are state property. Locals said the vandalism damaged the island’s appearance and spoiled its natural scenery.

Additional images shared online showed the suspect’s face and his off-road motorcycle, described as white and red. The man, estimated to be aged between 55 and 65, was reported to be staying in the Haad Yao area. Residents urged the public to remain vigilant and provide information to police.

Villagers and tourism operators said the behaviour showed a lack of respect for Thai law and the local community, warning it could harm Koh Phangan’s tourism image. They called on Koh Phangan police to track down the suspect and take legal action to prevent copycat behaviour by other visitors.

Police said the acts could violate several laws, including the Public Cleanliness and Orderliness Act of 1992, which carries a maximum fine of 5,000 baht, and Section 360 of the Criminal Code for damaging public property, punishable by up to five years’ imprisonment, a fine of up to 100,000 baht, or both.

Tourism Shock: Pattaya bar guards beat tourist after bill dispute in viral clip

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Khaosod English

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3 February 2026, 11:06

messageImage_1770090573594 — CCTV footage shows bar guards surrounding a tourist during a dispute in Pattaya.

PATTAYA — Police are investigating a violent incident involving bar security guards and a tourist in Pattaya after a video of the assault circulated widely on social media, raising concerns about the city’s tourism image.

The incident occurred at around 19:00 on 2 February in Soi 6, Nong Prue subdistrict, Bang Lamung district, Chon Buri. The clip shows a group of entertainment venue guards attacking a tourist, allegedly over a dispute about an unpaid bill.

When reporters visited the area at about 23:30 the same night, Soi 6, lined with beer bars, remained busy, with both Thai and foreign tourists continuing to visit as usual.

One guard who claimed to have witnessed the incident said the tourist had an argument with guards wearing blue uniforms. After talks failed, the tourist reportedly ran away, prompting the guards to chase and restrain him. The tourist allegedly fought back while trying to escape, leading to a scuffle captured on video.

The guard said they later advised the venue to contact police and insisted their team was not responsible for security at the bar where the dispute began.

Pol. Col. Anek Sarathongyu, chief of Pattaya City Police Station, said investigators had been ordered to examine the facts and summon all guards seen in the video for questioning. Police are also attempting to locate the injured tourist to obtain further information, as no formal complaint has yet been filed.

Police said they would conduct a fair investigation and take legal action against any party found to have broken the law.

Gold rebounds 3% rising above US$4800

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Khaosod English

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3 February 2026, 10:07

Global gold prices jumped more than 3% on Monday, rebounding from a near one-month low, as market participants braced for a week with limited key economic data due to the partial shutdown of the US government.

Spot gold rose 3.7% to US$4,837.16 per ounce, recovering after falling to its lowest level in nearly a month in the previous session. The metal had surged to a record high of US$5,594.82 per ounce on 29 January.

US gold futures for April delivery climbed 4.5% to US$4,859.30 per ounce.

Other precious metals also advanced. Spot silver jumped 5.9% to US$84.09 per ounce, after hitting a record high of US$121.64 last Thursday. Spot platinum rose 3% to US$2,183.64 per ounce, following a record peak of US$2,918.80 on 26 January, while palladium gained 2.7% to US$1,765.75 per ounce.

The US Bureau of Labor Statistics said on Monday that the closely watched January employment report will not be released this Friday due to the partial shutdown of the federal government.

The US government has been partially shut down since 31 January after Congress failed to approve a funding agreement in time, affecting several agencies, including the Department of Labor, despite the Senate having passed a budget bill on 30 January.

The House of Representatives is scheduled to take up the legislation on 2 February, with a final vote expected on 3 February. House Speaker Mike Johnson said he was confident the shutdown would end within a few days.

Meanwhile, the US dollar remained slightly stronger on Tuesday, supported by better-than-expected economic data and expectations of a shift in Federal Reserve monetary policy following President Donald Trump’s announcement of a new Fed chair. These factors outweighed concerns over the partial government shutdown.

A stronger dollar makes dollar-denominated gold more expensive for holders of other currencies.

Investors expect the Fed to cut interest rates at least twice in 2026. Gold, which yields no interest, typically performs better in a low-interest-rate environment.

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