Thai-Cambodia Border Businesses Plead for Checkpoint Reopening Is Rejected

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14 September 2025, 01:42

ban hat lek2 — Goods transportation through Hat Lek checkpoint in Trat province began experiencing intermittent opening and closing issues since June 2025, until it was closed for an extended period starting in July.

TRAT — Border traders and businesses along the Thai-Cambodia frontier in Chanthaburi and Trat provinces are calling for authorities to ease restrictions and reopen checkpoints to alleviate severe economic losses. Daily trade volumes have plummeted from 100 million baht ($3.15 million) to zero, with businesses warning they must consider both security and economic fronts as Chinese and Vietnamese goods flood the market. If the situation persists, several companies will be forced to lay off workers.

Japanese private sector representatives have made clear that the current situation is impacting investment in “Thailand Plus One” projects – a strategy where companies use Cambodia as a manufacturing base to complement their Thai operations. However, Thai military officials remain firm on security conditions and refuse to allow checkpoint reopenings.

Nationalist Sentiment Blocks Progress

The first special session of the Thailand-Cambodia General Border Committee (GBC) was held in Koh Kong Province, Cambodia on September 10, 2025. The meeting addressed key economic issues that gave border business groups in Chanthaburi and Trat provinces hope for relaxed checkpoint policies for goods transport, as these areas are in lower-tension zones compared to other border points. Japan, which has investments in the region, supports the restoration efforts.

However, nationalist sentiment on social media and the stance of Thai military leaders have blocked the implementation of these negotiations, leaving business groups waiting indefinitely.

thai cambodia 1 — Thai Deputy Defence Minister Nattapon Nakpanich and Cambodian Defence Minister Tea Seiha co-chair the 1st Special Session of the General Border Committee (GBC) between Thailand and Cambodia in Koh Kong Province, Cambodia, on Sept. 10, 2025.

Looking Beyond Security Concerns

Jatupat Ruksahakul, Vice President of the Trat Province Border Trade Association and exporter to Cambodia, told Prachachat Business that he supports reopening the checkpoints to provide some relief for operators. Since the permanent closure of the Ban Hat Lek border checkpoint in Hat Lek sub-district, Khlong Yai district, Trat province nearly two months ago, trade and export businesses have seen their income drop to zero from the previous daily revenue of nearly 100 million baht ($3.15 million).

“Society needs to use reason to solve problems and look beyond security dimensions. Border trade export value exceeds 100 billion baht, while imports are less than 50 billion baht. The current impact is that Thai goods are being replaced by Chinese and Vietnamese products. The resolution that can be agreed upon should be negotiated in the JBC forum, where consideration for opening goods transport should allow products with proper transportation permits,” Jatupat said.

ban hat lek — Ban Hat Lek border checkpoint in Hat Lek sub-district, Khlong Yai district, Trat Province

Chinese and Vietnamese Goods Replace Thai Products

Export sources to Cambodia in Trat province revealed to Prachachat Business that since the permanent Hat Lek border crossing closed at the end of July, middlemen traders who normally buy goods from various factories in Thailand and export them to cities across Cambodia have been severely affected, unable to export goods for over a month.

Sales have dropped to zero from the usual monthly revenue of tens of millions of baht. Goods must be stored in warehouses because alternative transport routes through Laos and Vietnam are not viable due to extremely high additional costs, including container rental at 50,000 baht per trip and increased transportation fees. If the Hat Lek checkpoint were reopened, cross-border transport to customers would be closer and more convenient, as the customer market is located in Koh Kong, Phnom Penh, and Sihanoukville.

Currently, the local Trat market cannot absorb the goods due to large quantities, and some beverages are specially formulated for Cambodian consumer preferences. These must compete with products already dominating the market. There are growing fears of permanently losing market share to China and Vietnam.

If the checkpoint closure extends another 3-4 months without exports, many operators, transport companies, and shipping firms will need to lay off workers, increasing unemployment rates.

checkpoint trat2 — Traffic at Ban Hat Lek, Khlong Yai district, Trat province, on June 9, 2025, the second day after Thailand implemented new border checkpoint opening-closing hours. More than 20 cargo trucks including container trucks, cement trucks, and fruit trucks queued for over 200 meters waiting to cross the border into Cambodia.

70% Sales Loss Triggers Layoff Concerns

Tosapol Kruealoy, Managing Director of Theppornchaiutsahakam Company Limited in Trat province, manufacturer of Sam Kratai fish sauce, told Prachachat Business that reopening the Trat and Chanthaburi checkpoints would provide some relief for operators. Currently, 70% of fish sauce production was exported to Cambodia, but with exports completely halted, only 30% can be sold domestically. Production capacity that previously ran daily with existing old stock has been reduced to once every two weeks. If conditions remain like this for 3-4 months, worker layoffs will likely be necessary.

“The Sam Kratai brand fish sauce that was established in the Cambodian market has now been replaced by Vietnamese fish sauce, which has the advantage of lower costs and cheaper prices. It will take a long time to recover and rebuild customer confidence to return to consuming Thai products, especially given higher production costs compared to Vietnam. Cambodians have been consuming Vietnamese fish sauce for over two months now,” Tosapol said.

Japanese Investors Voice Investment Concerns

Meanwhile, on September 12, the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) website published results from the 30th Japan-Cambodia Public-Private Joint Conference held in Phnom Penh on September 3, 2025 to improve the business environment for Japanese companies and request reopening of land borders.

Japanese Ambassador to Cambodia Ueno Atsushi addressed the current land border closure with Thailand and called for early normalization of logistics. He pointed out that if the closure continues, Cambodia could lose its appeal as an investment destination as a “Thailand Plus One” location.

JBAC Chairman Koji Fukuhara also explained the economic losses faced by member companies, postponement of expansion plans, and the impact of production adjustments on Cambodian workers, calling for the resumption of border logistics.

Defense and Foreign Ministry Maintain Firm Stance

Despite mounting economic pressure, General Nattapol Nakpanich, Deputy Defense Minister and Acting Defense Minister, has issued orders that there will be no consideration of relaxing any goods transport if there is no significant progress in implementing agreements regarding: (1) withdrawal of heavy weapons from border areas, (2) joint mine clearance operations, and (3) concrete crackdown on scammers at a level that builds mutual trust.

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul clearly stated on September 13 that the Thai-Cambodian border will reopen only when guns are no longer pointed at each other. He affirmed that this is not happening now and he must listen to the voice of the people.

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New Chinese Ambassador Defends China-Thailand Special Partnership

By

Khaosod English

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13 September 2025, 20:36

chinese ambassador zhang — Chinese Ambassador to Thailand Zhang Jianwei addresses Thai media during his first press briefing at the Chinese Embassy in Bangkok on September 11, 2025.

BANGKOK — China’s newly appointed Ambassador to Thailand Zhang Jianwei held his first media briefing with Thai journalists on September 11, addressing growing concerns about Chinese influence and tourist safety perceptions that have strained bilateral relations.

Zhang, who officially assumed his role as China’s 14th Ambassador to Thailand on July 29, used the meeting at the Chinese Embassy to tackle sensitive issues that have dominated social media discussions between the two nations.

Addressing Safety Concerns

The ambassador directly responded to perceptions among some Chinese citizens that Thailand is unsafe for tourists, an image problem that has affected visitor numbers despite Thailand’s visa-free policy for Chinese travelers.

“When I was preparing to come to Thailand, friends asked if it would be safe here. But after arriving, I found their concerns were completely unfounded,” Zhang said.

He attributed much of the negative perception to distorted reporting, particularly surrounding the case of Chinese actor Wang Xing, who was deceived by a scammer network. Zhang emphasized that the incident had nothing to do with Thailand itself but was misrepresented in social media coverage.

“The Thai government is making every effort to ensure safety, and the Chinese Embassy is working closely with them to help Chinese citizens understand the real facts,” he stated.

chinese embassy new am1 — Prab Boonpan (second from left), Managing Director of Matichon Group, participates in the media briefing with Chinese Ambassador Zhang Jianwei at the Chinese Embassy in Bangkok on September 11, 2025.

“Gray Chinese” Business Practices

The briefing also addressed Thai concerns about some Chinese businesses operating unethically in Thailand – a phenomenon locally termed “Gray Chinese.”

Prap Boonpan, Managing Director of Matichon Group, raised this issue during the session, noting that while Thais appreciate Chinese products and increased tourism, some worry about Chinese entrepreneurs taking advantage of Thailand’s economy.

Zhang acknowledged the concern but insisted such cases represent a tiny fraction of Chinese business investment in Thailand. He said the embassy regularly reminds Chinese businesses to respect Thai laws and emphasized that most Chinese investors come with friendly intentions to benefit local communities under a “live in Thailand, work for Thailand” approach.

Rejecting “Province” Claims

Addressing social media debates about whether Thailand has become China’s “Taiguo Province,” Zhang called such suggestions impossible and historically unfounded.

“How could Thai people allow such a thing to happen? Looking back at history, you can see that Thailand and China have always had mutually beneficial relationships,” he said.

The ambassador emphasized China’s foreign policy of promoting peace and equality with all nations, regardless of size or development level. He noted that in the 76 years since the Communist Party’s founding, China has never waged war or invaded any country.

chinese embassy new am2 — Chinese Ambassador Zhang Jianwei poses with Thai media representatives and officials during the “Ambassador meets with Thai media to Discuss New Future of Thailand-China Cooperation” meeting at the Chinese Embassy in Bangkok on September 11, 2025.

Strengthening Media Cooperation

Senior journalist Pravit Rojanaphruk from Khaosod English reflected concerns about Chinese regional influence, prompting Zhang to frame any negative perceptions as minor family disputes rather than serious diplomatic issues.

Zhang concluded by urging Thai media to report on China accurately and comprehensively, emphasizing China’s readiness to cooperate with Thailand through bilateral and regional mechanisms.

Historic Royal Visit Planned

The session marked the ambassador’s first major outreach effort as both countries commemorate 50 years of diplomatic relations in 2025, with Zhang expressing gratitude for the Thai people’s genuine friendship toward China throughout this partnership. He also highlighted the upcoming celebration of this special milestone, announcing that His Majesty the King of Thailand and Her Majesty the Queen will make a historic visit to China in December this year.

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Phuket Eyes $17.3Billion Tourism Revenue as High Season Bookings Soar

By

Khaosod English

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13 September 2025, 15:47

phuket revenue2025 — Phuket officials hope visitor numbers in 2025 will remain close to 2019 levels rather than exceed them, citing ongoing infrastructure limitations.

PHUKET — Thailand’s premier island destination is targeting 550 billion baht ($17.3 billion) in tourism revenue this year as accommodation bookings for the upcoming high season approach pre-pandemic levels, industry leaders announced Saturday.

Thanet Tantipiriyakit, President of the Phuket Tourist Association, said the outlook for the island’s crucial high season appears strong, driven by increased direct flight connections and robust advance bookings from international visitors.

“Just yesterday, there was good news about a potential increase in direct flights from China, which is a very positive sign for the end of the year,” Thanet said during a briefing on September 13.

Strong Booking Performance

Members of the Phuket Tourist Association report that hotel reservations for November and December 2025, extending into January 2026, are showing considerable strength. Properties across the island have recorded high numbers of advance bookings from both European and Asian markets.

The association expects occupancy rates for the remainder of 2025 to average over 90% island-wide, matching last year’s performance. Tourism statistics for the first six to seven months of 2025 are already approaching 2019 pre-pandemic levels.

saudi drawn phuket1 — Laem Singh National Park Beach, Phuket Province

Focus Shifts to Quality Tourism

Rather than pursuing visitor volume alone, tourism authorities are emphasizing higher-spending, longer-staying guests. Thanet noted significant improvements in average length of stay among tourists from both Europe and Asia.

“What the private sector and the Tourism Authority of Thailand are doing now is that we are not focusing on the number of tourists, but on quality tourists,” he explained.

The revenue target of 550 billion baht ($17.3 billion) represents a 10% increase from 2024’s figure of over 498 billion baht ($15.6 billion) . Tourism generated more than 290 billion baht ($9.1 billion) in the first seven months of 2025, leaving officials optimistic about surpassing 200 billion baht ($6.3 billion)in the remaining months.

Infrastructure Concerns Temper Growth

Despite positive booking trends, Phuket officials hope visitor numbers will remain close to 2019 levels rather than exceed them, citing ongoing infrastructure limitations. Excessive tourist volumes could undermine efforts to position Phuket as a health-conscious destination and negatively impact local residents.

The private sector has praised police efforts to address traffic congestion, particularly on Thepkrasattri Road, where authorities have implemented route changes, modified U-turn points, and closed select intersections. While these measures affect daily life, police report that travel time between Phuket city and the airport has been reduced to 40 minutes during peak hours between 9 AM and 3 PM.

The balanced approach reflects Phuket’s strategy to maximize tourism revenue while maintaining destination quality and livability for residents.

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Thailand Emerges as Top OpenAI Growth Market in Southeast Asia

By

Khaosod English

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13 September 2025, 12:08

ai woodie2 — OpenAI Chief Strategy Officer Jason Kwon

BANGKOK — Thailand has emerged as one of Southeast Asia’s fastest-growing markets for artificial intelligence, with OpenAI reporting that weekly active users of ChatGPT in the country have quadrupled over the past year.

The dramatic growth figures were unveiled at the first OpenAI Forum held in Thailand on Friday, an event that brought together more than 100 business leaders at Bangkok’s House of Wisdom venue. The forum, titled “AI LEAP: Turning Today’s Disruption into Tomorrow’s Advantage,” featured OpenAI Chief Strategy Officer Jason Kwon making his inaugural visit to the kingdom.

Speaking at the event moderated by media personality Woody Milintachinda, Kwon attributed Thailand’s rapid AI adoption to the country’s inherent optimism about new technology. “The difference might actually just come down to optimism and belief,” Kwon told attendees, suggesting that Thailand’s positive outlook and adaptability position it to “leapfrog into the future” across sectors including education, healthcare, creativity and entrepreneurship.

Young Thais Drive Adoption

New OpenAI data reveals that Thailand’s AI surge is primarily driven by users aged 18-24, who are incorporating ChatGPT into various aspects of their daily lives. The top five applications among Thai users are translation services, personal development advice, tutoring and learning, self-care guidance covering health and fitness, and personal writing assistance.

KBTG Group Chairman Ruangroj “Krating” Poonpol, who joined the forum discussion, emphasized AI’s potential to create more equitable opportunities. “Technology must be a tool for inclusion—to help close the gap, not widen it,” Poonpol said. “AI can provide a more level playing field, democratising access to intelligence and enabling young people to learn fast, create, and leapfrog into the future.”

ai woodie1 — The OpenAI Forum “AI LEAP: Turning Today’s Disruption into Tomorrow’s Advantage” is held at Bangkok’s House of Wisdom on September 13, 2025.

Creative Industry Advantages

Industry leaders at the forum highlighted Thailand’s established reputation for creativity and early technology adoption as key competitive advantages in the AI space. The country has previously demonstrated rapid uptake of innovations from mobile banking to social media platforms.

“Thai people are fast learners and fast adopters. It’s in our DNA,” Poonpol noted, pointing to the combination of adaptability and creativity that positions Thailand as a potential AI leader in the region.

Milintachinda added that Thai creators already win international awards in advertising and content creation, suggesting that AI tools could enable them to pioneer new formats like personalized filmmaking and innovative creative platforms.

Sustainable Growth Focus

The forum emphasized that Thailand’s AI growth extends beyond simple consumption toward building a sustainable ecosystem. With strong youth adoption, established governance frameworks, and a commitment to inclusive development, the country appears positioned to play a leading role in how AI integrates into daily life and future industries across Southeast Asia.

The rapid growth in Thailand reflects broader regional trends, as Southeast Asian nations increasingly embrace artificial intelligence technologies for economic and social development.

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UN Assembly Votes Overwhelmingly to Back Two-State Solution to Israel-Palestinian Conflict

By

Associated Press

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13 September 2025, 05:52

Israel Palestinians Gaza — Smoke and flames rise from an Israeli military strike on a building in Gaza City, Friday, Sept. 12, 2025. (AP Photo/Yousef Al Zanoun)

UNITED NATIONS (AP) — The U.N. General Assembly voted overwhelmingly Friday to support a two-state solution to the Israel-Palestinian conflict and urge Israel to commit to a Palestinian state, which Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vehemently opposes.

The 193-member world body approved a nonbinding resolution endorsing the “New York Declaration,” which sets out a phased plan to end the nearly 80-year conflict. The vote was 142-10 with 12 abstentions.

Hours before the vote, Netanyahu said “there will be no Palestinian state.” He spoke at the signing of an agreement to expand settlements that will divide the West Bank, which the Palestinians insist must be part of their state, saying, “This place belongs to us.”

The resolution was sponsored by France and Saudi Arabia, who co-chaired a high-level conference on implementing a two-state solution in late July, where the declaration was approved.

The nearly two-year war in Gaza and the broader Israeli-Palestinian conflict are expected to be at the top of the agenda of world leaders at their annual gathering at the General Assembly starting on Sept. 22. The Palestinians say they hope at least 10 more countries will recognize the state of Palestine, adding to the more than 145 countries that already do.

Riyad Mansour, the Palestinian U.N. ambassador, said the support for the resolution reflects “the yearning of almost everyone, the international community, to open the door for the option of peace.”

Without naming Israel, he said, “We invite a party that is still pushing the option of war and destruction, and attempts to eliminate the Palestinian people and steal their land, to listen to the sound of reason — to the sound of the logic of dealing with this issue peacefully, and for the overwhelming message that has resonated in this General Assembly today.”

But Israel’s U.N. Ambassador Danny Danon dismissed the resolution as “theater,” saying the only beneficiary is Hamas.

“This one-sided declaration will not be remembered as a step toward peace, only as another hollow gesture that weakens this assembly’s credibility,” he said.

The United States, Israel’s closest ally, reiterated its opposition to the New York Declaration and the General Assembly resolution endorsing implementation of the two-state solution.

AP25233770239807 — FILE – Palestinians carry sacks of flour taken from a humanitarian aid convoy in the outskirts of Beit Lahiya, northern Gaza Strip, Aug. 1, 2025. (AP Photo/Jehad Alshrafi, File)

The resolution “is yet another misguided and ill-timed publicity stunt that undermines serious diplomatic efforts to end the conflict,” U.S. Mission counselor Morgan Ortagus said. “Make no mistake, this resolution is a gift to Hamas.”

The declaration condemns “the attacks committed by Hamas against civilians” in southern Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, a rare condemnation by Arab nations of Hamas. The Hamas-led militants killed about 1,200 people, mainly Israeli civilians, and took about 250 hostage. Of those, 48 are still being held, including about 20 who are believed to be alive.

It also condemns Israel’s attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure in Gaza and its “siege and starvation, which have produced a devastating humanitarian catastrophe and protection crisis.” Israel’s offensive against Hamas has killed over 64,000 Palestinians, according to the Gaza Health Ministry, which doesn’t distinguish between civilians and combatants.

The declaration envisions the Palestinian Authority governing and controlling all Palestinian territory, with a transitional administrative committee immediately established under its umbrella after a ceasefire in Gaza.

“In the context of ending the war in Gaza, Hamas must end its rule in Gaza and hand over its weapons to the Palestinian Authority,” the declaration says.

It also supports deployment of “a temporary international stabilization mission” operating under U.N. auspices to protect Palestinian civilians, support the transfer of security to the Palestinian Authority and provide security guarantees for Palestine and Israel — “including monitoring of the ceasefire and of a future peace agreement.”

The declaration urges countries to recognize the state of Palestine, calling this “an essential and indispensable component of the achievement of the two-state solution.” Without naming Israel but clearly referring to it, the document says “illegal unilateral actions are posing an existential threat to the realization of the independent state of Palestine.”

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Nepal Has First Woman Prime Minister as President Dissolves Parliament and Sets March Elections

By

Associated Press

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12 September 2025, 23:28

Nepal Protest — Former Supreme Court Chief Justice Sushila Karki, right, greets Nepalese President Ram Chandra Poudel after taking the oath as interim prime minister during a ceremony at the presidential residence in Kathmandu, Nepal, Friday, Sept. 12, 2025. (AP Photo/Sujan Gurung)

KATHMANDU, Nepal (AP) — Nepal ‘s president on Friday appointed former Supreme Court Chief Justice Sushila Karki as interim prime minister and the first woman to head the Himalayan nation’s government, following fiery protests that collapsed the previous administration.

Karki, a popular figure when serving as the court’s only female chief justice in 2016 and 2017, was to be sworn in later Friday. The appointment was announced by President Ram Chandra Poudel’s spokesman Kiran Pokhrel.

Karki, 73, was known for her stand against corruption in the government while in office. Some lawmakers tried to impeach her in April 2017, accusing her of bias, but the move was unsuccessful and was criticized at the time as an attack on the judiciary.

AP25255642463528 — Former Supreme Court Chief Justice Sushila Karki attends her swearing-in ceremony as interim prime minister at the presidential residence in Kathmandu, Nepal, Friday, Sept. 12, 2025. (AP Photo/Sujan Gurung)

Street demonstrations starting Monday in Kathmandu over a social media ban turned violent, with protesters attacking government buildings and police opening fire. Though the ban was rescinded, the unrest continued over broader grievances, with tens of thousands of protesters attacking and burning the parliament, the presidential residence and businesses.

The violence prompted Prime Minister Khadga Prasad Oli to resign Tuesday and flee his official residence. Nepal’s army took control of the capital Tuesday night, and started negotiations among the protesters, army and president over an interim government.

Violence over the past week left at least 51 people dead, police said Friday.

AP25252447710001 — Protesters celebrate at the Singha Durbar, the seat of Nepal’s government’s various ministries and offices, after burning it down during a protest against a social media ban and corruption in Kathmandu, Nepal, Tuesday, Sept. 9, 2025. (AP Photo/Niranjan Shrestha)

Many of the dead were protesters killed by police fire and some were inmates trying to break out of a jail in the capital, Kathmandu. Three police officers also were among the dead, police said.

The military has enforced a curfew since late Tuesday, with residents given a few hours per day to leave their homes to buy food and supplies while soldiers guard the streets of Kathmandu.

The demonstrations — called the protest of Gen Z — originally were sparked by the short-lived ban on platforms including Facebook, X and YouTube, which the government said had failed to register and submit to oversight.

But they soon reflected broader discontent, with many young people angry about what they call “nepo kids” of political leaders who enjoy luxurious lifestyles while most youth struggle to find work.

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Suspect in Charlie Kirk Killing Had Become ‘More Political’ and Likely Acted Alone

By

Associated Press

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12 September 2025, 23:04

Charlie Kirk Shot — This photo released by the Utah Governor's Office on Friday, Sept. 12, 2025 shows Tyler Robinson. (Utah Governor's Office via AP)

OREM, Utah (AP) — The man accused in the Charlie Kirk assassination had earlier expressed to family his opposition to the viewpoints of the conservative activist, the authorities said Friday in announcing an arrest in a targeted killing that raised fresh alarms about political violence in the United States.

Tyler Robinson, 22, had become “more political” in the run-up to the shooting and had indicated to a family friend afterward that he was responsible, Utah Gov. Spencer Cox said. Cox also cited as key pieces of evidence engravings on bullets found in a rifle believed used in the attack as well as chatting app messages attributed to the shooting suspect that a roommate shared with law enforcement.

Cox, a Republican, called Kirk’s killing an “attack on the American experiment,” and he urged a new generation to “choose a different path.”

Robinson is believed to have acted alone, and the investigation is ongoing, Cox said.

Robinson’s arrest early Friday morning was disclosed by President Donald Trump, who said in a Fox News Channel interview that, “With a high degree of certainty, we have him.”

AP25254586346160 — This undated combination of images provided provided by the Federal Bureau of Investigation shows a person of interest in connection with the fatal shooting of Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University on Wednesday, Sept. 10, 2025, in Orem, Utah. (Federal Bureau of Investigation via AP)

Calls to telephone numbers listed for Robinson in public records rang unanswered.

News of the arrest came hours after the FBI and state officials had pleaded for public help by releasing additional photographs of the suspect, a move that seemed to indicate that law enforcement was uncertain of the person’s whereabouts.

Kirk was killed by a single shot in what police said was a targeted attack and Utah’s governor called a political assassination. Kirk co-founded the nonprofit political organization Turning Point USA, based in Arizona.

Authorities recovered a high-powered, bolt-action rifle near the scene of the shooting and had said the shooter jumped off a roof and vanished into the nearby woods afterward.

Kirk had been speaking at a debate hosted by Turning Point at Utah Valley University at the time of Wednesday’s shooting. He was taken to a local hospital and was pronounced dead hours later.

“He wanted to help young people, and he didn’t deserve this,” Trump said Friday. “He was really a good person.”

Federal investigators and state officials on Thursday had released photos and a video of the person they believe is responsible. Kirk was shot as he spoke to a crowd gathered in a courtyard at the university in Orem.

More than 7,000 leads and tips had poured in, officials said. Authorities have yet to cite a motive in the killing, the latest act of political violence to convulse the United States.

AP25255550348563 — This photo released by the Utah Governor’s Office on Friday, Sept. 12, 2025 shows Tyler Robinson. (Utah Governor’s Office via AP)

Grisly video shared online

The attack, carried out in broad daylight as Kirk spoke about social issues, was captured on grisly videos that spread on social media.

The videos show Kirk, who was influential in rallying young Republican voters, speaking into a handheld microphone when suddenly a shot rings out. Kirk reaches up with his right hand as blood gushes from the left side of his neck. Stunned spectators gasp and scream before people start running away.

The shooter, who investigators believe blended into the campus crowd because of a college-age appearance, fired one shot from the rooftop, according to authorities. Video released Thursday showed the person then walking through the grass and across the street before disappearing.

“I can tell you this was a targeted event,” said Robert Bohls, the top FBI agent in Salt Lake City.

Trump, who was joined by Democrats in condemning the violence, said he would award Kirk the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor in the U.S. Vice President JD Vance and his wife, Usha, visited with Kirk’s family Thursday in Salt Lake City. Vance posted a remembrance on X chronicling their friendship, dating back to initial messages in 2017, through Vance’s Senate run and the 2024 election.

“So much of the success we’ve had in this administration traces directly to Charlie’s ability to organize and convene,” Vance wrote. “He didn’t just help us win in 2024, he helped us staff the entire government.”

Kirk’s casket was flown aboard Air Force Two from Utah to Phoenix, where his nonprofit political youth organization is based. Trump told reporters he plans to attend Kirk’s funeral. Details have not been announced.

AP25255109812640 — A photo of Charlie Kirk, the CEO and co-founder of Turning Point USA who was shot and killed, stands at his vigil, Thursday, Sept. 11, 2025, in Orem, Utah. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)

Kirk was taking questions about gun violence

Kirk was a conservative provocateur who became a powerful political force among young Republicans and was a fixture on college campuses, where he invited sometimes-vehement debate on social issues.

One such provocative exchange played out immediately before the shooting as Kirk was taking questions from an audience member about gun violence.

The debate hosted by Turning Point at the Sorensen Center on campus was billed as the first stop on Kirk’s “American Comeback Tour.”

The event generated a polarizing campus reaction. An online petition calling for university administrators to bar Kirk from appearing received nearly 1,000 signatures. The university issued a statement last week citing First Amendment rights and affirming its “commitment to free speech, intellectual inquiry and constructive dialogue.”

Last week, Kirk posted on X images of news clips showing his visit was sparking controversy. He wrote, “What’s going on in Utah?”

Attendees barricaded themselves in classrooms

Some attendees who bolted after the gunshot rushed into two classrooms full of students. They used tables to barricade the door and to shield themselves in the corners. Someone grabbed an electric pencil sharpener and wrapped the cord tightly around the door handle, then tied the sharpener to a chair leg.

On campus Thursday, the canopy stamped with the slogan Kirk commonly used at his events — “PROVE ME WRONG” — stood, disheveled.

Meanwhile, the shooting continued to draw bipartisan condemnation as Democratic officials joined Trump and other Republican allies of Kirk in decrying the attack, which unfolded during a spike of political violence that has touched a range of ideologies and representatives of both major political parties.

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Luxury Hotel to Rise from Ashes of Iconic Peninsula Plaza in Bangkok

By

Khaosod English

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12 September 2025, 20:33

prestige2 — Then and now: Peninsula Plaza (left) as it appeared during its three-decade run as a shopping center on Ratchadamri Road, and the newly built Grand Center Point Prestige Bangkok (right) that now occupies the same site, set to open December 1, 2025.

BANGKOK — A 4.5-billion-baht ($140 million) luxury hotel will open its doors this December on the former site of Peninsula Plaza, marking the end of an era for the iconic Ratchadamri Road shopping center that served Bangkok for over three decades before closing in 2022.

The 45-storey Grand Center Point Prestige Bangkok, featuring 509 rooms on a three-rai plot in Pathum Wan District, represents a major bet on Thailand’s tourism recovery as hotel operators report occupancy rates of 80-90% driven by surging demand from Asian, Chinese, European and Middle Eastern visitors.

Developer LH Mall & Hotel Co Ltd, a subsidiary of Land and Houses PCL, has accelerated the hotel’s opening from the first quarter of 2026 to December 1, 2025, citing strong booking momentum that has already filled 60-70% of December reservations at sister properties.

The project underscores Bangkok’s hotel market transformation, with room rates starting at 8,000-10,000 baht positioning the property in the luxury segment. Combined with the neighboring Grand Center Point Ratchadamri, the two hotels will offer over 1,000 rooms to capitalize on Thailand’s tourism boom.

“Q3 has significantly outperformed Q2 this year,” said Kitti Worabanphot, Managing Director of LH Mall & Hotel Co Ltd, pointing to increasingly independent Chinese travelers with higher purchasing power as a key growth driver.

Market Expansion & Supply Growth

Carlos Martinez, Director of Research and Real Estate Consulting at Knight Frank Chartered (Thailand) Co, Ltd, said seven new hotels with a total of 1,906 rooms have opened this year, ranging from luxury to upper midscale, such as the Grand Center Point Lumpini, Four Points by Sheraton, Aman Nai Lert, Queensland Hotel and The Quarter.

In addition, 12 more hotels with 3,283 rooms are scheduled to open in the second half of 2025, reflecting continued growth and increasing competition. Many of the new hotels are located in newly developed or revitalized urban areas, leading to greater geographical diversification of the Bangkok hotel market.

Domestic brands such as The Quarter and Queensland continue to expand aggressively in the mid to upscale segment, while international chains such as Radisson and Four Points are increasing their investments, a sign of long-term confidence in Bangkok’s market potential.

“The key question in the second half of the year is whether the market can absorb the more than 3,283 new rooms that will open by the end of the year. This will bring the total new supply to over 5,100 rooms in 2025, the fastest growth since COVID,” said Carlos.

Tourism Demand Challenges

“The biggest burden is the sharp decline in Chinese tourists, which have fallen by 35%. Although China remains the most important market for Thailand, the slowdown has hit mid-market hotels and those that rely on group travel the hardest.”

Carlos emphasized that in this context, the growth in revenue per available room is driven by occupancy, especially in peak months such as November and December, which benefit from the end-of-year holidays and demand from the MICE segment. However, midscale hotels are facing tough competition from new providers, which limits their pricing power.

In contrast, the luxury segment remains more resilient and is supported by long-haul travelers and high-income tourists from the region. Although price growth is modest and competition in the upscale market is increasing, Bangkok still offers a price advantage compared to Singapore, Hong Kong and Tokyo. This could attract experiential travelers seeking value at competitive prices.

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Together Festival 2025: The Ultimate Happiness Booster

By

MC Marketing

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12 September 2025, 18:00

14 World-Class DJs and Producers Ignite Every Sense with Music and Lights

Together Festival 2025 once again proved why it’s among the world’s most anticipated electronic music festivals — daring to push boundaries and deliver fresh experiences fans can’t find anywhere else. On September 5–6, BITEC Bangna came alive with two unforgettable nights of electrifying beats, dazzling visuals, and nonstop energy, powered by 14 international DJs and producers blending iconic names with rising stars taking global social media by storm.

From 4 PM to midnight each day, fans gathered from across the globe to create “Magic Moments”:

Day 1 opened with Lookwa and Nuttrix X Yuuki, before JustUs, Apashe’s orchestral-inspired set, and Black Tiger Sex Machine’s bass-driven chaos raised the energy. MORTEN debuted Future Rave at Together Festival, setting a bold new tone, before Afrojack closed the night in superstar style.

Day 2 lit up with Shockko and SmylieK, Fairlane’s EDM-meets-rock guitar showcase, and surprise back-to-back sets from BabyJ & Tye Turner. Legends Paul Van Dyk and Andrew Rayel transported fans into trance-fueled dimensions, before Sub Zero Project delivered an explosive hardstyle finale.

Beyond the music, Together Festival 2025 reaffirmed its place as a global playground for EDM lovers — uniting fans, sparking new friendships, and serving groundbreaking experiences before anyone else.

With unmatched production, a fearless lineup, and an atmosphere that never disappoints, Together Festival once again set the benchmark for electronic music events in Thailand and beyond.
For future updates, visit www.togetherfestival.net

Safari World’s Predator Zone Closed After Fatal Lion Attack

By

Khaosod English

-

12 September 2025, 17:27

Lion safari 3 — Journalists photograph the lions involved in the fatal attack on their keeper, held in cages at Safari World, Bangkok, Sept. 11, 2025.

BANGKOK — Safari World’s Predator Zone has been temporarily closed following a deadly lion mauling that killed a zookeeper, with authorities citing widespread safety violations and substandard animal welfare conditions.

The Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation ordered the immediate closure on September 12, 2025 after an urgent inspection revealed the park’s safety standards were 80% below acceptable levels.

Male lion “Trump” (circled), the first to pounce on the keeper in the fatal attack, is held in a cage at Safari World, Bangkok, Sept. 11, 2025.

Fatal Attack Details

A pack of five lions—Trump, Bite, Aon, Ai, and Yao—attacked and killed their caretaker in what officials are calling a preventable tragedy. The approximately 10-year-old lions, led by male lion Trump, are now being held in separate enclosures while experts evaluate their behavior.

If the lions cannot be rehabilitated, they will be relocated to the company’s Prachinburi facility and replaced with new animals.

Lions involved in the fatal attack on their keeper are held in cages at Safari World, Bangkok, Sept. 11, 2025.

Systemic Safety Failures

Department Director-General Atthapol Charoenchansa’s inspection team uncovered 23 critical deficiencies that must be corrected within 30 days, including:

Damaged fencing systems with multiple breaches in the 3-meter double-barrier design
Inadequate warning signage particularly in English
Missing security cameras in blind spots
Unstaffed gate control posts during critical hours
Poorly equipped staff vehicles lacking protective barriers
Animal Welfare Crisis Inspectors found disturbing conditions throughout the facility:
Lion enclosures plagued by flooding, poor ventilation, and inadequate lighting
Tiger cubs suffering from skin infections caused by unsanitary, humid conditions
Substandard living conditions across multiple animal habitats
Immediate Actions Required The park must implement emergency protocols

news71890 NC1crQP5VY1757650164 — Lions involved in the fatal attack on their keeper are held in cages at Safari World, Bangkok, Sept. 11, 2025.

License at Risk

The facility faces an uncertain future as authorities review whether to renew license permits. The park has 30 days to address all violations or risk permanent closure of its predator attractions.

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