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BTS Concert ticket scam victims question donation funds

BTS Concert ticket scam victims question donation funds

BANGKOK — 8 July 2026, an online dispute has emerged among members of a victim group in an alleged BTS concert ticket scam, with some participants calling for an inquiry into donations collected by one of the group’s representatives to fund a trip to Parliament. The controversy has intensified after social media users linked the representative to allegations from an unrelated fundraising case last year.

The group was formed after hundreds of people reported being defrauded in connection with BTS concert ticket sales, with total losses estimated at several million baht. Victims organised through a Line OpenChat group to monitor the case, gather evidence and coordinate police complaints across multiple jurisdictions before seeking assistance from Members of Parliament from the People’s Party.

On 11 June, several representatives submitted a petition and held a press conference at Parliament. One representative, identified publicly as “Rinrin”, helped coordinate the effort and took part in the briefing.

Following the petition, however, some members questioned how donations collected before the trip had been managed. According to the complainants, Rinrin accepted contributions through a bank account belonging to her boyfriend, saying the money would cover travel and related expenses. They said victims donated a combined total of about 20,000 baht.

Some donors later alleged that the actual expenses totalled only about 3,000 baht and called for a detailed accounting of the funds, along with the return of the remaining balance.

The complainants alleged that Rinrin initially said the remaining money would be refunded in stages but later left the group’s chat without doing so. They also claimed that updates on the case were at times shared only with donors and alleged that Rinrin had repeatedly sought financial support for various expenses, sometimes expressing disappointment when assistance was not provided.

Some members further alleged that other representatives who travelled to Parliament did not receive any reimbursement for travel or fuel costs despite participating in the petition, while one representative travelling from another province was reimbursed only for a round-trip bus fare.

Separately, some social media users have claimed that Rinrin is the same person accused in an unrelated savings mobilisation scheme last year involving alleged losses of about 926,640 baht. Those online claims also alleged that funds from the scheme were used for gambling and that victims have not been repaid.

Other unverified posts alleged that the individual later changed her name and had previously faced legal proceedings. None of those claims has been independently verified, and no official confirmation has been provided by authorities.

As of 8 July, Rinrin had not publicly responded to the allegations regarding the donations or the claims circulating online. Several members of the victim group have called on her to issue a public explanation to address the concerns and improve transparency.

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PM opens THAIDEF-EX 2026, backs self-reliant defence

NONTHABURI — 8 July 2026, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul on Tuesday inaugurated the Thailand Defence Industry Exhibition 2026 (THAIDEF-EX 2026), reaffirming the government’s commitment to strengthening the domestic defence industry, promoting self-reliance and boosting Thailand’s competitiveness, while ending his remarks with the message, “Make Love, Not War.”

The opening ceremony was held at 08:00 on 8 July 2026 at the Office of the Permanent Secretary for Defence in Si Saman, Pak Kret district, Nonthaburi.

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Anutin, who also serves as interior minister, arrived at the venue standing atop a First Win mine-resistant armoured vehicle alongside Defence Minister Lt. Gen. Adul Boonthamcharoen. Several cabinet members also attended the event, including Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthumpun, Deputy Prime Minister and Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation Minister Yoschanan Wongsawat, Industry Minister Varawut Silpa-archa, Minister to the Prime Minister’s Office Paradorn Prissananantakul and Minister to the Prime Minister’s Office Supamas Isarabhakdi.

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In his opening address, Anutin said the exhibition demonstrates Thailand’s readiness not only to safeguard its sovereignty but also to build economic resilience through greater self-reliance.

He said the global landscape has shifted dramatically, with geopolitical conflicts disrupting trade, investment and supply chains that once operated with few restrictions.

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“Many countries are now turning towards self-reliance to ensure security and sustainable production instead of depending on imports,” he said.

The prime minister said developing Thailand’s defence industry would strengthen national security while creating opportunities to advance technology, upgrade manufacturing capabilities and generate greater economic value.

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He said Thailand’s manufacturing capacity and strategic location position the country to become a competitive production hub for defence technologies in the global market.

Anutin described THAIDEF-EX 2026 as a major milestone in the country’s industrial development, saying investment in the defence sector would encourage research, high technology development, engineering and innovation, while creating opportunities for Thai entrepreneurs to move into higher-value industries.

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He noted that many technologies widely used today, including unmanned aerial vehicles, satellite navigation systems and advanced materials, originated from defence-related research before being adapted for commercial and civilian applications.

The prime minister stressed that investment in the defence industry should be viewed not only as an investment in national security but also in the future competitiveness of Thailand’s economy.

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He expressed confidence that Thailand has the potential to become one of the region’s leading producers of defence technology.

Anutin also pledged continued cooperation between domestic and international partners to establish an integrated ecosystem linking research, development and manufacturing.

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He said the memorandum of understanding signed between the Ministry of Defence, the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, and the Ministry of Industry marks an important strategic step in connecting research expertise, production capabilities and operational needs to develop Thailand’s defence technology sector.

Following the ceremony, Anutin toured exhibition booths showcasing weapons and military equipment produced by Thai companies. He signed a commemorative message using a bullet-shaped pen, writing, “Congratulations on your success.”

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Before leaving, he reiterated his personal message to reporters, saying, “Make Love, Not War.”

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Central Pattana launches THB11bn ‘CenTRal cENtrAL’ in Siam Square

BANGKOK — Central Pattana has unveiled plans for an 11-billion-baht mixed-use development in the heart of Bangkok’s Siam Square, featuring Thailand’s first 25hours Hotel, as part of efforts to strengthen the district’s position as a global destination for youth, creativity and lifestyle.

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The project, named ‘CenTRal cENtrAL’, is being developed in partnership with Mitsubishi Estate (Thailand) at the Pathumwan intersection. It will combine retail, office and hospitality facilities, along with public spaces designed to support creative communities and cultural activities.

The retail complex will house more than 300 local and international brands across multiple lifestyle zones, targeting Gen Z consumers, tourists and office workers. The development will also include more than 3,400 square metres of public space under the company’s “CenTRal Future Makers” concept, aimed at nurturing young entrepreneurs, artists and creators.

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Among its highlights are the Social Theatre, a flexible venue for performances and community events, and the Skyline Theatre, a rooftop green space intended for outdoor activities and gatherings. The project will also feature pop-up retail spaces for emerging brands and startups.

A key attraction will be the arrival of 25hours Hotel, marking the German lifestyle brand’s debut in Thailand. The hotel chain currently operates in just 13 cities worldwide and is known for its design-led, locally inspired properties.

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Construction will be completed in phases. The retail component is scheduled to open in the second quarter of 2027, followed by office space later that year, while the 25hours Hotel is expected to welcome guests in early 2029.

Central Pattana said the development is intended to reinforce Siam Square’s reputation as a Global Youth Culture Destination, while attracting international visitors, global brands and investment to one of Bangkok’s busiest commercial districts. The company added that the project reflects its long-term strategy of creating mixed-use destinations that combine commerce, culture and community in central urban locations.

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“From Farms to Space” CPF supports Chai Charoen Fresh in elevating Thai Holy Basil from backyard gardens to space standards

Beyond the distinctive aroma and bold flavor of “Pad Krapow” (Stir-fried Holy Basil), a highly favored dish nationwide, lies the remarkable growth trajectory of a Thai SME that has successfully transcended the limitations of backyard cultivation to achieve international standards. Charoen Pokphand Foods Public Company Limited (CPF) has served as a steadfast partner, driving a successful business model for Chai Charoen Fresh Co., Ltd. and its network of over 100 small farmers. Through this collaboration, they have evolved into producers of premium fresh holy basil, rigorously adhering to space-food safety standards and ensuring utmost consumer confidence in every meal.

8 Years of Trust: From Business Partners to Strategic Collaborators

Eight years ago, Chai Charoen Fresh Co., Ltd. embarked on its fresh vegetable enterprise with profound dedication. Recognizing the complexities of expanding within the modern food industry, Mr. Chaitawee Somsanya, Managing Director of CCF, identified the partnership with CPF as a pivotal milestone. CPF provided more than purchase orders; they acted as a “mentor,” facilitating a comprehensive restructuring of CCF’s operational systems. At present, Chai Charoen Fresh oversees a network exceeding 100 small farmers across Sing Buri, Nonthaburi, Nakhon Pathom, Pathum Thani, Sa Kaeo, and Kanchanaburi provinces. These farmers have been equipped with advanced skills for cultivating chemical-free holy basil in strict compliance with Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) standards, thereby securing consistent income and an enhanced quality of life.

“The holy basil sourced from our farms serves as a primary ingredient in all CPF holy basil-based menus, including classic offerings such as Holy Basil Fried Rice available at 7-Eleven branches nationwide, health-oriented options like Soft Chicken Breast with Holy Basil, and innovative products such as Chicken Basil Rice Sausages, which recently secured a Winner award at the THAIFEX – Anuga Taste Innovation Show 2026,” stated Mr. Chaitawee. “Achieving such recognition demands exceptionally high and consistent standards. “Consequently, collaborated with us to systematically plan the cultivation process from its inception to ensure that every basil leaf is entirely chemical-free and aligns with GAP standards. Furthermore, CPF assisted in upgrading our processing facilities to attain GHP and HACCP certifications, which represent the highest benchmarks for food safety.”

Transitioning from Traditional Agriculture to “Space Food” Standards

A compelling aspect of this collaboration is CPF’s role as an authentic enabler, seamlessly integrating its extensive corporate expertise to support the SME:

  • Fostering Agricultural Sustainability: Collaboratively supporting over 100 smallholder farmers across six provinces to transition toward chemical-free holy basil cultivation in accordance with GAP standards. This initiative not only yields superior quality produce but also enhances the farmers’ health and provides a stable, reliable monthly income.
  • Zero-Waste Innovation: Mitigating waste from basil stems and flowers during the trimming process by promoting research and development. These byproducts are extracted into essential oils and flavorings, thereby maximizing the utilization and value of Thailand’s agricultural resources.
  • Advancing Toward the “Kitchen of the World”: Bolstered by technological support and rigorous quality control measures, the holy basil cultivated by Chai Charoen Fresh and its affiliated smallholder farmers has become an essential component in CPF’s globally exported culinary offerings. This includes attaining advanced safety standards equivalent to the dietary requirements of astronauts.

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The Pride of a Thai SME on a Global Platform

The achievements of Chai Charoen Fresh and its agricultural network across six provinces serve as a definitive testament that Thai SMEs and smallholder farmers can attain global standards when provided with appropriate opportunities and targeted support. They demonstrate the capability to produce ingredients that satisfy the world’s most stringent safety criteria—achieving space-level safety.

“Our profound pride stems from witnessing holy basil cultivated by Thai farmers distributed on international shelves and receiving global accolades. This milestone was actualized because CPF believes in the potential of SMEs and remains committed to fostering sustainable, mutual growth,” Mr. Chaitawee concluded.

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CPF and Its Mission in Empowering Partners

Currently, CPF remains steadfast in advancing the “Partner to Grow” initiative as a primary catalyst for identifying and elevating high-potential Thai SMEs. The program focuses on the transfer of technology, innovation, and international expertise to reduce operational costs, enhance product value, and unlock new market opportunities. This initiative acts as a vital mechanism in fortifying the Thai food industry, amplifying the nation’s competitive advantage on the global stage, and genuinely generating sustainable income for Thai communities and farmers.

#CPFPartnerStories #คู่ค้าเล่าเรื่อง #PartnerToGrow

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K-9 dogs begin screening outbound passengers after Australia raises security concerns

BANGKOK — Police K-9 dogs were deployed to inspect passenger baggage on flights bound for Australia on Tuesday as Thai authorities stepped up airport security measures.

At 06:30 on 7 July, police officers and sniffer dogs conducted drug detection checks on baggage belonging to passengers departing on Thai Airways flight TG461 to Melbourne, Australia.

No illegal items were found during the inspection, police said.

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The deployment followed an order from the Ministry of Transport instructing the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) to strengthen security measures at airports.

The measures include instructing airlines to tighten controls over passenger belongings, including prohibiting the acceptance of items that could pose security risks, as well as additional training for X-ray screening officers.

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Authorities will also enhance intelligence operations and increase the use of K-9 units from the Royal Thai Police to support airport inspections.

The move comes as Thailand works to ensure compliance with international aviation security standards and improve screening procedures for outbound travellers.

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Lisa-inspired wax figure to join Thai candle festival parade

Lisa-inspired wax figure to join Thai candle festival parade

NAKHON RATCHASIMA — 6 July 2026, A wax sculpture inspired by Thai global pop star Lisa will take centre stage at this year’s traditional Buddhist Candle Festival in Chok Chai district, as organisers blend contemporary pop culture with centuries-old craftsmanship to attract wider audiences.

Community leaders and residents of Ban Bing village in Chok Chai subdistrict are racing to complete their candle float for the Chok Chai Subdistrict Municipality’s annual Candle Festival 2026, scheduled for 28 July.

The procession will continue to portray key moments from the life of the Buddha—including his birth, enlightenment and passing into nirvana—alongside tributes to King Maha Vajiralongkorn, preserving the intricate artistry for which Chok Chai’s candle festival is renowned.

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A major highlight this year is a series of wax figures modelled on Lisa’s likeness. Featuring her signature bangs, the sculptures depict the singer as celestial beings, angels and mythical creatures from the Himmapan forest, creating a contemporary twist on traditional Buddhist art.

Village head Sakchai Khumkratoke of Ban Bing said the artisan team wanted to make the festival more appealing to people of all ages and nationalities while maintaining its Thai identity.

“When we thought of a Thai person recognised both nationally and internationally, Lisa immediately came to mind,” he said.

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According to Sakchai, the artists unanimously agreed to incorporate Lisa’s likeness into the procession by subtly integrating her face into sculptures of angels, celestial beings, kinnari and nakee figures. He said the design pays tribute to her talent and beauty while giving the candle float a more modern and international image.

“She represents Thailand on the global stage while remaining proudly Thai, and we wanted the procession to reflect that same spirit,” he added.

The Chok Chai Candle Festival will be held on 28 July in front of the Chok Chai Subdistrict Municipality Office before participating floats join the larger provincial candle festival in Nakhon Ratchasima from 28–30 July.

Visitors will not only be able to admire the elaborate candle floats but also see the Lisa-inspired wax sculpture up close as part of the Ban Bing community’s procession.

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Tomorrowland Thailand sells out 150,000 tickets, expected to generate 6 billion baht

BANGKOK — Tickets for the inaugural Tomorrowland Thailand music festival have sold out, with all 150,000 tickets snapped up shortly after sales opened, Tourism and Sports Minister Surasak Phancharoenworakul said on Tuesday.

Speaking after the weekly Cabinet meeting, Surasak said the three-day electronic dance music festival, scheduled to take place in Chon Buri this December, sold around 50,000 tickets per day, reaching full capacity of 150,000 tickets across the event.

The government expects the festival to attract an average of 50,000 visitors daily and generate about 6 billion baht in economic activity each year.

Thailand has signed a five-year agreement to host Tomorrowland, with the government projecting the event will inject at least 30 billion baht into the economy over the duration of the contract.

According to the minister, about 85% of ticket buyers are international visitors, while 15% are Thai attendees. Foreign visitors include both short-haul and long-haul travellers, with many expected to stay in Thailand for extended periods.

Surasak said festival packages priced at 150,000 baht or more have also been sold, contributing to the projected economic impact. The event is expected to create around 4,000 jobs during both the preparation and staging of the festival.

The government said extensive measures are being put in place to ensure the safety and convenience of attendees, including dedicated shuttle bus services, enhanced public transport, increased police deployment and volunteer support.

Organisers will also implement comprehensive security measures in coordination with government agencies to ensure the safety of both festivalgoers and nearby communities, Surasak said.

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Indonesia’s Prabowo and India’s Modi meet to discuss expanding economic and defense ties

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi, left, and Indonesia's President Prabowo Subianto embrace after a joint press conference following their meeting, at Merdeka Palace in Jakarta, Indonesia, Tuesday, July 7, 2026. (AP Photo/Achmad Ibrahim)

JAKARTA, Indonesia (AP) — Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with Indonesia’s President Prabowo Subianto Tuesday to discuss ways to strengthen strategic ties between Asia’s two largest democracies as economic globalization faces headwinds.

Discussions between the leaders will focus on several key pillars, including defense and security, trade and investment, food security, energy security, critical minerals and capacity building in sectors such as health and education. Eight agreements and several memorandums of understanding are also expected to be announced during the visit, Indonesia’s Foreign Minister Sugiono told reporters ahead of the visit.

The two leaders on Tuesday held talks after a ceremony at the Merdeka palace, Indonesia’s main presidential office.

The visit marks Modi’s second trip to Indonesia as prime minister, following his previous visit in 2018, and comes after Prabowo attended India’s Republic Day celebrations as chief guest last year, Sugiono, who like many Indonesians uses a single name, said.

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India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi, left, is greeted by Indonesia’s President Prabowo Subianto during the welcoming ceremony ahead of their meeting at Merdeka Palace in Jakarta, Indonesia, Tuesday, July 7, 2026. (AP Photo/Achmad Ibrahim)

Modi arrived in Indonesia’s capital, Jakarta, on Monday afternoon for a three-day visit to Southeast Asia’s largest economy. It was the first stop of his overseas visit to Indo Pacific nations, including Australia and New Zealand.

Modi received a warm welcome, with his plane escorted into Indonesian airspace by three fighter jets. He was greeted on the tarmac by Prabowo at Halim Perdanakusuma Air Force Base, underscoring the importance Jakarta places on its relationship with New Delhi.

Indonesia and India are member states of the Group of 20 major developing countries and emerging economies, and of BRICS.

Indian Ambassador to Indonesia Sandeep Chakravorty said Modi is also scheduled to address members of Indonesia’s Parliament Tuesday before attending an evening event with the Indian community in Indonesia. He said the visit reflects growing cooperation between two of Asia’s most influential democracies.

“In the recent geopolitical context, closer ties between two leaders of the Global South are very essential so that we give the message to the world that we are together and we work for each other’s strength,” Chakravorty told reporters ahead of the visit.

Chakravorty said defense cooperation is expected to feature prominently during the talks. He said Indonesia has expressed interest in acquiring India’s BrahMos supersonic cruise missile system and that discussions have reached an advanced stage.

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India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi, right, and Indonesia’s President Prabowo Subianto arrive for a joint press conference following their meeting, at Merdeka Palace in Jakarta, Indonesia, Tuesday, July 7, 2026. (AP Photo/Achmad Ibrahim)

Beyond defense procurement, both countries are expected to discuss broader maritime security cooperation as India and Indonesia share strategic interests along key shipping routes linking the Indian and Pacific oceans, Chakravorty said. A planned launch of the Indonesia Open Network, a digital commerce platform inspired by India’s digital public infrastructure model, is also expected during Modi’s visit.

Sugiono said Modi is expected to travel to the ancient city of Yogyakarta Wednesday, where he may announce the start of an Indian-supported restoration project at the Hindu temple of Prambanan, one of Indonesia’s most important cultural heritage sites. The project follows an agreement reached during Prabowo’s visit to India.

Modi will travel to Australia the same day to meet with his Australian counterpart Anthony Albanese.

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Anutin warns low-profile ministers risk Cabinet dismissal

Anutin warns low-profile ministers risk Cabinet dismissal

BANGKOK — 6 July 2026, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul say poor public communication is partly to blame and warning ministers who fail to make their work visible that they could lose their Cabinet posts.

Speaking at Government House on 6 July, Anutin revealed he had called a meeting with Cabinet ministers and warned that those who remain largely invisible to the public risk being dropped.

“If you’re a minister the world forgets, the prime minister may forget you too. And if I forget you, there’s no need for you to remain in the Cabinet,” he said.

Anutin said he had already begun warning some ministers about their public profile two weeks ago and would raise the issue again in light of the latest poll.

He stressed that while ministers were working hard, they also needed to explain their work to the public.

“You can’t just work well without communicating. A minister must both deliver results and explain them,” he said.

Asked how long he would take to assess the performance of his Cabinet, which has been in office for about two months, Anutin replied that it would not take long and said future Cabinet reshuffle decisions would be based on performance, ability and dedication.

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Indonesia’s TransNusa adds daily Bangkok flights

Indonesian carrier TransNusa is expanding its network in the second half of 2026 with the launch of a new Jakarta–Bangkok route and the world’s first direct flights connecting Bali and Wakatobi, strengthening regional connectivity across Southeast Asia.

The airline said the new Jakarta-Bangkok service aims to link two of Southeast Asia’s key business and tourism hubs, while the Bali-Wakatobi route marks a global first by offering direct access to the island group, home to the world’s second-largest barrier reef.

The Bali-Wakatobi service is the second pioneering direct route introduced by TransNusa. In 2024, the airline became the first to operate non-stop flights between Bali and Manado, another internationally renowned diving destination.

Datuk Bernard Francis, Group Chief Executive Officer of TransNusa, said the new routes represent a major step in strengthening the airline’s domestic and international network.

“Launching the Jakarta-Bangkok and Bali-Wakatobi routes is part of our long-term strategy to expand our regional network and meet growing travel demand between Indonesia and Thailand,” he said.

He noted that Thailand remains one of Southeast Asia’s leading tourism hubs, and regular scheduled flights would provide greater convenience while supporting tourism and trade between the two countries.

TransNusa said the Jakarta-Bangkok route is among the region’s busiest international air corridors, serving millions of passengers annually. The airline expects its daily service to improve connectivity for travellers across Southeast Asia.

Initially, TransNusa will operate two daily flights between Jakarta and Bangkok. The airline will also offer three weekly direct flights between Bali and Wakatobi on Mondays, Thursdays and Sundays.

In addition, TransNusa will operate four weekly direct flights between Bali and Waingapu on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays.

Tickets are now on sale through the airline’s website and online travel platforms. Fares for the Jakarta-Bangkok route start at $167.54, while Bali-Waingapu fares start from $75.36.

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