"A British tourist receives first aid after being attacked by a group of transgender women in his condominium room on September 12, 2025.
PATTAYA — A 65-year-old British tourist was brutally attacked and left bloodied by a group of transgender women in his Pattaya condo room early Friday morning after refusing to pay exorbitant fees for services he didn’t request.
Police Lieutenant Manasak Polyiem, Deputy Investigation Inspector at Pattaya City Police Station, received the report of the assault at 5:36 a.m. on September 12 at a condominium in South Pattaya, Nong Prue subdistrict, Bang Lamung district, Chonburi province.
When officers arrived at the scene, rescue volunteers from the Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan Foundation provided first aid to the victim, identified as Mr. Duncan, age 65, from Britain. He suffered multiple deep lacerations to his head with blood covering his face before being rushed to the hospital.
Police from Pattaya Station interview the British tourist following the assault by transgender attackers in his accommodation on September 12, 2025.
Dispute Over Numbers and Payment
According to police investigation, the incident occurred inside Duncan’s 20th-floor room. The victim told authorities he had requested services from two people, but four transgender women arrived instead. When he refused the additional company, the group not only refused to leave but demanded payment of 10,000 baht each ($315), totaling 40,000 baht ($1,260).
Duncan’s refusal to pay the inflated amount led to a heated argument inside the room. The transgender women then allegedly attacked him with knives, targeting his head. The victim managed to escape and run downstairs to seek help from security staff while the attackers fled the scene.
Police Investigation Underway
Lieutenant Manasak said police will conduct a detailed interview with Duncan and coordinate with detective units to investigate the area for leads on the perpetrators. Authorities believe security cameras captured the entire incident and are currently reviewing footage to identify and apprehend the suspects.
Immersive two-day exhibition to be staged at Bangkok Marriott Hotel Sukhumvit on October 4-5, 2025, showcasing world-class venues, professional partners, and exclusive offers
BANGKOK, THAILAND: September 12, 2025 – “Marry Me at Marriott”, Marriott Bonvoy’s Thai wedding & honeymoon fair, returns to Bangkok this October for two days of immersive activities that will inspire all brides and grooms to exchange their eternal vows in the “Land of Smiles.”
Staged at Bangkok Marriott Hotel Sukhumvit on October 4th and 5th, 2025, this enchanting event will provide all attendees – including loving couples and professional planners – with everything they need to create truly unforgettable occasions at Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of hotels and resorts all across Thailand, from elegant urban ceremonies to stylish seafront celebrations. Staged at the spectacular 490-square meter Benchasiri Ballroom, this is a one-stop-shop for anyone organizing their special day.
At “Marry Me at Marriott,” guests can meet with representatives from 37 outstanding properties in Thailand*, spanning nine distinct destinations – Bangkok, Hua Hin, Pattaya, Rayong, Phuket, Khao Lak, Krabi, Koh Samui, and Chiang Mai – and discover an amazing array of venues, from glittering ballrooms to golden beaches. With attractive packages, bespoke set-ups, dazzling decorations, creative catering, dedicated support services and more, every occasion can be personalized to transform dreams into reality.
The event will also put visitors face-to-face with 11 of Marriott Bonvoy’s trusted professional partners, including wedding planners, dressmakers, jewelers, make-up artists, spa & beauty therapists, light & sound services, photographers, videographers and more.
The Center for Logistics and Healthcare Supply Chain Management (LogHealth), Faculty of Engineering, Mahidol University, in partnership with Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI) of the Republic of China, (Taiwan), under the supervision of Taiwan’s Ministry of Economic Affairs, and the Health Innovation and Technology Network, will host the “Smart Health Forum 2025”. This event is scheduled on Tuesday, September 9th, 2025, from 13.00 to 16.30 at Avani Sukhumvit Bangkok Hotel. The purposes of this forum are to exchange new findings and to foster academic and technological cooperation in smart healthcare between Thailand and Taiwan.
This seminar aims to promote the development of effective smart healthcare approaches to sustainably elevate the region’s healthcare service systems as well as the medical industry through advanced innovation and technology. The “Smart Health Forum 2025” will be honoured and officially presided over the opening by Professor Eric Chuang, Vice President and General Director of the Biomedical Technology and Device Research Laboratories at ITRI.
Leading Experts to Share Their Knowledge – Distinguished speakers from Taiwan’s Industrial Technology and Innovation Research and Development Institute, will speak on “Taiwan: Building a Vibrant Innovation Ecosystem and Smart Healthcare”, which focusing on creating a conductive environment for smart healthcare innovation in Taiwan will be spoken by Professor Eric Chuang, Vice President and General Director of the Biomedical Technology and Device Research Laboratories at ITRI. Following this, Mr. Daniel Lee, Chairman of the Taiwan Medical and Biotech Industry Association, will present an “Overview of Smart Health Industry in Taiwan”, considering the current status and future directions of the smart healthcare industry in Taiwan.
Thailand to Present its Visions and Potential on an International Stage – Leading experts from Thailand’s medical sectors, including public health, private, and academia, will share their knowledge and perspectives on smart healthcare. It is graced to have Dr. Adichan Chuajinda, Deputy Director, Bureau of Digital Health, Ministry of Public Health, deliver a presentation on “Smart Health Policy and Current Progress in Thailand”, providing a comprehensive overview of Thailand’s digital health policies and tangible progress.
Mr. Prasert Patcharabussarakamkul, Deputy Managing Director, RFS Co., Ltd. (Affiliated Company of Faculty of Medicine Ramathibodi), Mahidol University, will share his development experiences in a presentation titled “Building Future Smart Hospitals”, from the perspective of a hospital support system service provider.
Associate Professor Dr. Norased Nasongkla, Ph.D. Director, Biopolymers and Nanoengineering for Drug Delivery and Molecular Imaging Laboratory, Faculty of Engineering, Mahidol University, will present on the topic, “Smart Health Industry Opportunities in Thailand”, highlighting the potential and opportunities for developing the smart medical device industry nationally.
Exchange on Strategic Views – Professor Erie Chuang, Vice President and General Director, Biomedical Technology and Device Research Laboratories at ITRI, Mr. Daniel Lee, Chairman, Taiwan Medical and Biotech Industry Association, Dr. Adichan Chuajinda, Deputy Director, Bureau of Digital Health, Ministry of Public Health, Mr. Prasert Patcharabussarakamkul, Deputy Managing Director, RFS Co., Ltd. (Affiliated Company of Faculty of Medicine Ramathibodi), Mahidol University, Associate Professor Dr. Norased Nasongkla, Ph.D. Director, Biopolymers and Nanoengineering for Drug Delivery and Molecular Imaging Laboratory, Faculty of Engineering, Mahidol University, together with Associate Professor Cdr. Sorayouth Chumnanvej, M.D., Ph.D., Faculty of Medicine Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University
,the experts from both countries are engaged to exchange their practical and strategic knowledge on the topic, “Smart Health Practice and Challenges: Strategic Directions for Advancing Smart Health Systems in the Digital Era”. This session will be moderated by Associate Professor Dr. Duangpun Krichanchai, Ph.D. Director, Center of Logistics Management and Healthcare Supply Chain (LogHealth), Faculty of engineering, Mahidol University.
Aims and Sustainable Future – The collaboration at the Smart Health Forum 2025 aims to build a strong and solid international innovation network among government, private, and academia sectors. This is to drive the joint development of the medical technology industry. The Smart Health Forum 2025 is expected that the exchange and the outcomes will serve as a strong starting point for elevating healthcare standards in both countries through smart technologies. Furthermore, the forum seeks to support the full-scale digitalization of public health systems as well as to strengthen the sustainable growth of the region’s medical future.
BANGKOK — Thailand’s Long-Term Resident (LTR) Visa program has successfully attracted over 7,000 high-quality foreign professionals in its first three years, generating more than 23 billion baht ($725.5 million) in economic value, the Board of Investment (BOI) announced Wednesday.
The program, launched in September 2022, has drawn professionals primarily from Europe (42%), the United States (19%), and Asian countries including Japan (9%), China (5%), and India (4%), according to BOI Secretary-General Narit Therdsteerasukdi.
“The economic impact comes from four main sources: visa fees, spending by visa holders within Thailand, direct foreign investment, and tax revenue from highly skilled professionals,” Narit explained during a briefing on September 11.
Targeting Four Key Categories
The LTR Visa specifically targets four groups of high-potential foreigners: highly skilled professionals, work-from-Thailand professionals, wealthy global citizens, and wealthy pensioners.
In March 2025, the Cabinet approved significant improvements to the program’s criteria and conditions, making it more attractive and accessible to a broader range of international talent. The expansion now includes foreign faculty members in educational institutions and vocational training programs across various sectors.
This enhancement aims to accelerate the development of Thai workforce capabilities to support new waves of investment in emerging industries.
Narit Therdsteerasukdi
Growing Appeal Despite Global Challenges
The program’s appeal has grown substantially following the recent adjustments. Applications from wealthy individuals have doubled compared to the same period last year, strengthening Thailand’s position as a preferred destination for global investors and skilled professionals.
“Despite ongoing geopolitical tensions and changes in the global trade landscape, Thailand continues to attract strong interest from investors and talent worldwide,” Narit noted. “LTR Visa applications have increased steadily over the past three years.”
Technology Transfer Benefits
Beyond immediate economic gains, the program facilitates crucial technology transfer from foreign professionals to Thai workers. This knowledge exchange helps prepare the local workforce for new industries entering Thailand, including advanced semiconductors and electronics, data centers and artificial intelligence, electric vehicles, biotechnology, and automation and robotics.
Thailand’s Long-Term Resident (LTR) Visa program (Photo: BOI)
Streamlined Digital Services
The BOI plans to upgrade LTR Visa services with comprehensive digital integration, connecting various government systems including e-Visa processing, electronic work permits from the Department of Employment, and e-Payment options. The system will also link with the Revenue Department for tax benefit applications and BOI-certified service providers.
New Bangkok Service Hub
To accommodate growing demand, the BOI opened the Thailand Investment and Expat Services Center (TIESC) in March 2025 at the One Bangkok project on Rama 4 Road. The new facility consolidates multiple services, including the One Start One Stop Investment Center and visa and work permit processing for BOI-promoted enterprises, LTR visas, and startup Smart Visas.
The centralized approach aims to provide one-stop convenience for international investors and professionals seeking to establish themselves in Thailand’s growing economy.
JerHigh unveils its latest product JerHigh Den-T Chews, featuring Korean travel YouTubers P'Jung and Cullen as brand ambassadors.
BANGKOK — International Pet Food Company Limited, manufacturer of JerHigh pet food and treats, has unveiled its latest product JerHigh Den-T Chews, dental health treats for dogs, featuring Korean travel YouTubers P’Jung and Cullen as brand ambassadors.
The product launch leverages the popularity of the Korean YouTuber duo from the Cullen HateBerry channel, who boast 2 million followers in Thailand and have served as JerHigh presenters since last year. Their significant Thai fanbase has made them attractive endorsers for various brands seeking to tap into the Korean Wave influence in Thailand.
Kitisak Limampai, Managing Director of International Pet Food Company Limited, emphasized that JerHigh Den-T Chews are designed to serve multiple purposes beyond traditional dog treats. “This isn’t just an ordinary dental chew, but a product packed with health benefits for dogs,” he stated.
Kitisak Limampai, Managing Director of International Pet Food Company Limited
The product features a sugar-free formula without artificial colors or flavors, containing 18% protein and low fat content. The treats are designed with a gentle texture that supports gum and tooth health while helping reduce tartar buildup.
JerHigh Den-T Chews are available in two sizes: 60 grams for small to medium breeds, designed for easy chewing and appropriate mouth size, particularly suitable for dogs difficult to brush; and 180 grams for larger dogs. The treats come in three flavors: tuna, milk, and bacon.
The product features a sugar-free formula without artificial colors or flavors
According to TTB Analytics forecasts, Thailand’s pet market demonstrates strong fundamentals with the 2025 market value projected at approximately 92 billion baht (US$2.905 billion), representing a 13.2% increase from the previous year. The market is expected to exceed 100 billion baht by 2026.
The robust growth projections reflect increasing pet ownership and premiumization trends in pet care products, with dental health treats representing a growing segment as pet owners become more conscious of comprehensive pet wellness beyond basic nutrition.
The launch of JerHigh Den-T Chews positions the company to capitalize on both the expanding pet care market and the influence of social media marketing through popular content creators.
Charlie Kirk hands out hats before speaking at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah, Wednesday, Sept. 10, 2025. (Tess Crowley/The Deseret News via AP)
Charlie Kirk, the CEO and co-founder of the conservative youth organization Turning Point USA, was fatally shot at an event at a Utah college.
Kirk was a top podcaster, culture warrior and ally of President Donald Trump. He led an effort to remake the GOP’s get-out-the-vote effort in the 2024 election based on the theory there were thousands of Trump supporters who rarely vote but could be persuaded to vote.
Kirk was speaking at a debate hosted by Turning Point USA at Utah Valley University when authorities said the shooter fired from a roof.
Law enforcement officials prepare to sweep a building at Utah Valley University, Wednesday, Sept. 10, 2025, in Orem, Utah. (AP Photo/Tyler Tate)
Videos posted to social media show Kirk speaking into a handheld microphone while sitting under a white tent. A single shot rings out and Kirk reaches up with his right hand as blood gushes from the left side of his neck.
Utah Valley is the state’s largest public university with an enrollment of 47,000. It’s about 40 miles (64 kilometers) south of the state capital of Salt Lake City.
The hunt for Kirk’s killer
The shooter targeted one person, said Beau Mason, the commissioner of the Utah Department of Public Safety.
Gov. Spencer Cox called the killing a “political assassination.”
A person of interest was in custody Wednesday evening, Cox said, though no charges were immediately announced. Officials had no information indicating a second person was involved, the Republican governor said.
A well-wisher is overcome after dropping off flowers, Wednesday, Sept. 10, 2025, at the national headquarters of Turning Point USA in Phoenix, following the shooting death of Charlie Kirk, the 31-year-old CEO of the organization, at a Utah college. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)
Officers were seen looking at a photo on their phones and showing it to people to see if they recognized a person of interest. Authorities said the shooter wore dark clothing.
Two people were detained Wednesday, but neither was determined to be connected to the shooting and both were released, public safety officials said.
The university said the campus was immediately evacuated and remained closed. Classes were canceled until further notice. Those still on campus were asked to stay in place until police officers could safely escort them off.
Investigators released two images of the person and appealed for tips to help solve the shooting of Charlie Kirk, a conservative activist and close ally of President Donald Trump who played an influential role in rallying young Republican voters.
The unidentified suspect is believed to have jumped off a roof and fled into a neighborhood after firing one shot, authorities said Thursday. A high-powered, bolt-action rifle they believe was used in the attack was recovered, and video recordings of the person they believe was responsible are being reviewed.
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)
FBI offering $100K reward for information on Charlie Kirk shooting
The FBI says it’s offering a reward of up to $100,000 for information leading to the identification and arrest of whoever is responsible for Kirk’s death.
Anyone with information is asked to call 1-800-CALL-FBI. Officials also published the link for a form where people can upload videos and photos.
Earlier Thursday, law enforcement officials disseminated two photos, seeking the public’s help in identifying the “person of interest.”
Kirk’s rise from Trump aide to major conservative influencer
Kirk was 18 years old when he co-founded Turning Point in suburban Chicago in 2012 with William Montgomery, a tea party activist. They aimed to take their ideas for low taxes and limited government to college campuses.
FILE – President Donald Trump shakes hands with moderator Charlie Kirk, during a Generation Next White House forum at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building on the White House complex in Washington, Thursday, March 22, 2018. (AP Photo/Manuel Balce Ceneta, File)
Turning Point enthusiastically backed Trump after he clinched the GOP nomination for president in 2016. Kirk served as a personal aide to the then-candidate’s eldest son, Donald Trump Jr., during the general election campaign.
The Trump connection helped fuel Turning Point’s rise to prominence. Soon, Kirk was a regular presence on cable TV, where he leaned into the culture wars and heaped praise on the president.
Contributions to the group doubled and then tripled — eventually climbing to $79.2 million in 2022, according to an analysis of publicly available tax filings. The group states that it now has a presence on nearly 4,000 high school and college campuses, operating as a conservative lifestyle brand that promotes hundreds of online influencers.
Kirk was known for provocative statements on race that he used to court Gen Z voters.
“I’m sorry. If I see a Black pilot, I’m going to be like, ‘Boy, I hope he’s qualified,’” Kirk said during a 2024 podcast episode with fellow right-wing activist Jack Posobeic.
Kirk staunchly opposed the enactment of Juneteenth as a federal holiday. He said the move to elevate the date was motivated by “anti-American” sentiment that promoted “a neo-segregationist view” that he claimed sought to supplant Independence Day.
Trump says he will award Kirk Presidential Medal of Freedom
During remarks at the Pentagon, Trump said he would posthumously award Kirk with the honor at a later date.
The United States’ highest civilian honor, the Presidential Medal of Freedom is awarded by presidents to people who have made significant contributions in a variety of areas, including culture and public service.
In his first term, Trump bestowed the honor to a number of people, including conservative firebrand commentator Rush Limbaugh.
Trump ordered flags lowered to half-staff and issued a presidential proclamation. The president, who sustained a minor ear injury when he was shot at a campaign event last year, said he and Kirk had a close relationship.
He described Kirk on Truth Social as a “great guy from top to bottom. GOD BLESS HIM!”
Democratic California Gov. Gavin Newsom, who last March hosted Kirk on his podcast, posted on X: “The attack on Charlie Kirk is disgusting, vile, and reprehensible.”
BANGKOK (AP) — A suspected scam call operation and a suspicious network of companies was discovered with links to a new free trade zone in the nation of East Timor, according to a report published Thursday by the United Nations Office of Drugs and Crime.
The report comes as scam centers have proliferated across Southeast Asia and spread across the world, and highlights the ability of the criminal enterprises to relocate as some governments in the region launch crackdowns.
Such centers, usually walled compounds in remote areas that conduct computer-enabled scams that are estimated to cost victims tens of billions of dollars per year, have proliferated in recent years, especially in Southeast Asia.
Scam centers in Laos, Myanmar and Cambodia have drawn global attention for running notorious romance scams, where a worker poses as an attractive young woman to lure targets into making false investments. They are also found in the Philippines and Laos, and UNODC warned in April that scam centers have appeared in Latin America and Africa.
In East Timor, police raided a suspected scam center in late August in the Special Administrative Region of Oecusse, detaining more than 30 foreigners for working without permission. The people detained came from Indonesia, Malaysia and China, but the UNODC report said it is unclear if they had been trafficked.
Oecusse is an exclave of East Timor located on the Indonesian half of the island the two countries share, and the region’s government opened a free trade zone called Oecusse Digital Centre in December 2024.
“The scale and nature of the activity we are now seeing – similar to what we were seeing at the earlier stages of Southeast Asia’s scam industry – shows how far things have progressed,” said Benedikt Hofmann, deputy regional representative at UNODC for Southeast Asia and the Pacific. “This is concerning, especially given the boost in connectivity Timor-Leste will be experiencing as part of becoming a full member of ASEAN.”
The UNODC said other companies with apparent links to scam networks were also found to be active in the region. The agency said one, an online gaming company, is connected with casino networks in Cambodia, owned by a Cambodian businessman with links Wan Kuok-koi, leader of the 14K Triad criminal gang and sanctioned by the United States.
Across countries in Southeast Asia, free trade zones or special economic zones have been exploited to facilitate cyber-enabled scams, money laundering and other crimes.
Last year, the Philippines launched a nationwide crackdown in which the government deported thousands of workers found in scam centers. In February, Thailand, Myanmar and China launched a joint action that saw thousands of workers released. However, the centers themselves have continued to operate.
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.
BANGKOK — More than a month after deadly Thai-Cambodian border clashes, seven provinces in Thailand’s lower northeast and eastern regions are experiencing severe economic collapse, with businesses shuttering and thousands losing their livelihoods as cross-border trade remains paralyzed.
The crisis has prompted urgent action from both governments. At a special meeting of the Thai-Cambodian General Border Committee (GBC) held in Koh Kong province, Cambodia, on September 10, officials agreed to ease restrictions on goods movement at select border checkpoints, offering a glimmer of hope for devastated business communities.
Poj Aramwattananon, chairman of the Thai Chamber of Commerce and the Board of Trade of Thailand, praised the diplomatic breakthrough. “This meeting promotes peace and cooperation, especially on border management issues,” he said, highlighting plans to reopen certain checkpoints to mitigate the severe impact on businesses, border trade, and international logistics.
Zoned Approach to Recovery
Authorities are implementing a security-based zone system to gradually restore economic activity:
Zone 1 (High Security): Army Region 2 areas including Ubon Ratchathani, Si Sa Ket, Surin, and Buri Ram
Zone 2 (Moderate Security): Sa Kaeo under Army Region 1
Zone 3 (Lower Risk): Chanthaburi and Trat provinces
Recovery efforts will begin in Zone 3, where the Chanthaburi-Trat Task Force will coordinate with Customs, the Ministry of Commerce, and the Ministry of Industry to implement practical reopening measures.
“I thank all sectors for pushing forward concrete negotiations that will allow people to return to normal life and help businesses in low-risk areas resume economic activities,” Poj stated.
Northeast Economy Faces Prolonged Downturn
The economic devastation in Thailand’s northeast appears set to continue well into 2025, according to business leaders.
Somchart Pongkapanakrai, vice chairman of the Thai Chamber of Commerce and chairman of the Northeast Chamber of Commerce, painted a grim picture: “The cross-border economy in the four northeastern provinces remains slow, with weak purchasing power and an inactive tourism sector.”
Hotels across the region sit empty as previous bookings were canceled during the conflict, and no new reservations are being made. Somchart predicts the Isan economy will remain weak until at least the second half of 2025, with businesses cutting costs, halting expansion plans, and freezing hiring.
Chong Chom Market, Surin Province, remains quiet and desolate since border conflicts erupted in late July 2025.
Regional Business Confidence Shattered
Buri Ram Province: Phunsub Thepnakhon, chairman of the Buri Ram Chamber of Commerce, reported that the tense situation has undermined business confidence completely. “No new investments are being made while local purchasing power has stagnated, especially in three border districts where trade has dropped by more than 50%,” he said.
The province faces a prolonged recovery period, with businesses likely to wait at least six months before making any investment decisions. Many hotel operators have already begun cutting jobs, while political unrest compounds the economic crisis.
Si Sa Ket Province: Tourism has plummeted by over 30%, according to Rattawit Angkasakulkiat, chairman of the Si Sa Ket Chamber of Commerce. Businesses are slashing costs and avoiding new investments while the government has failed to provide any relief measures. Hotel operators are petitioning to reverse the recent 400-baht minimum wage increase, and the province is unlikely to reach its 2025 GDP target of 80 billion baht.
Surin Province: Wirat Setthawipatchai, chairman of the Surin Chamber of Commerce, described how border uncertainty is fueling widespread fear among residents. While daily essential spending continues, discretionary spending has collapsed by over 30%. “Declining purchasing power has slowed investment, and business owners are reluctant to invest. Businesses are simply trying to survive without hiring more workers,” he explained.
Chong Chom Market, Surin Province, remains quiet and desolate since border conflicts erupted in late July 2025.
Trat’s Seafood Industry in Complete Collapse
The closure of the permanent Haad Lek checkpoint in Khlong Yai district has created an economic catastrophe for Trat province, according to Sutthilak Khumkrongrak, honorary adviser to the Trat Federation of Thai Industries.
“Some businesses that rely on Cambodian trade are now seeing zero revenue and are being forced to lay off workers,” Sutthilak said. One seafood importer with a typical turnover of 10 million baht has seen revenue plummet to nothing, wiping out more than half of its expected annual income.
The collapse has rippled through downstream sectors, with cold storage facilities and ice factories also cutting staff. “If the situation does not improve within three to six months, these companies will cease operations,” Sutthilak warned. “Residents of Khlong Yai district have seen their income drop by more than 80%, and cross-border trade has almost ceased.”
Cambodia closes border checkpoint near Chanthaburi province on June 14, 2025, despite ongoing JBC talks.
Tourism Industry Devastated
Trat Tourism Crisis: The tourism sector has been severely affected since martial law was imposed. Foreign tourists have postponed or canceled bookings for November and December, while foreign insurers no longer provide coverage for travel to areas designated as conflict zones, eliminating all international bookings.
Sutthilak suggested the government implement a tourism subsidy program similar to the previous “Khon La Khrueng” (“We Travel Together”) initiative, covering 60% of costs while tourists pay 40% to provide short-term relief.
Chanthaburi’s Billion-Baht Losses: The provincial tourism industry has suffered catastrophic losses since martial law was declared across seven provinces. Apisorn Thavornwiriyanant, president of the Chanthaburi Tourism Industry Council, and Phumipat Tangcharoensiri, president of the Chanthaburi Tourism Promotion Association, report that tourist concerns about safety have led to widespread cancellations.
Hotel bookings, events, and conferences have been canceled, resulting in losses of 80,000–125,000 room nights and a drop of 165,000–250,000 visitors in the past month alone. The estimated financial loss ranges from 700 million to 1.6 billion baht.
Comprehensive Relief Proposals
The Chanthaburi Tourism Industry Council and Tourism Promotion Association have submitted detailed relief proposals to the provincial governor, including:
Personal and corporate income tax reductions
Loan repayment holidays and reduced bank interest rates
Organization of major promotional events
Budget allocations to hire 2-3 influencers with at least one million followers to promote tourism
Enhanced “Half-Half Co-Payment for Tourism” scheme specifically for the seven affected provinces, with government covering 70% of expenses and tourists paying only 30%, extended through year-end
Tourism roadshow for operators from the seven provinces at Bangkok’s Queen Sirikit National Convention Center
The Cambodian side of the checkpoint remains closed, not responding to Thailand’s relaxation measures allowing cross-border transport vehicles, July 21, 2025.
Sa Kaeo’s Market Economy Collapses
Therdsak Wongpho, chairman of the Sa Kaeo Federation of Thai Industries, reported that Cambodian activities in the Nong Chan region of Aranyaprathet district are worsening and could escalate further.
After nearly three months of border closure, businesses have no revenue but still must pay rent for land owned by the Ministry of Finance and state railroad. Aranyaprathet’s border trade normally generates 100 billion baht annually.
At the once-bustling Rong Kluea market, only about 30% of the original 5,000 Cambodian traders remain, with most having returned home. Those remaining have moved operations online. “The market is dead quiet,” Therdsak said, noting that his company has survived only thanks to its construction business.
The economic crisis affecting these seven provinces represents one of the most severe regional economic disruptions Thailand has faced in recent years, with recovery dependent on successful diplomatic resolution and coordinated government relief efforts.
Vientiane – Recently, Xayaburi Power Company Limited (XPCL), an affiliate of CK Power Public Company Limited (CKPower, SET: CKP), one of the region’s largest producers of electricity from renewables with one of the lowest carbon footprints, and the operator of the Xayaburi Hydroelectric Power Plant, was awarded the prestigious Labor Medal and an Achievement Certificate in recognition of its outstanding hydroelectric power plant construction and development in line with international environmental standards. The medal was presented to Mr. Vorapote Uchoepaiboonvong, Managing Director of XPCL, by His Excellency Mr. Chansaveng Boungnong, Deputy Minister of Industry and Commerce of Lao PDR, at the main conference hall of Electricite du Laos (EDL) in Vientiane.
The awarding of the Labor Medal not only reaffirms the Xayaburi Hydroelectric Power Plant’s position as a model run-of-river facility meeting international standards, but also reflects CKPower’s success in driving clean energy forward while advancing sustainable economic and social development across the region.
Operated by XPCL under a concession from the Government of Lao PDR, the plant is located on the Mekong River and harnesses the river’s natural flow without the need for a large storage reservoir. With an installed capacity of 1,285 MW, it generates an average of more than 7,400 GWh of clean, renewable electricity annually, helping to avoid approximately 3.8 million tons of CO₂ emissions per year for Thailand.
Authorities apprehend Thai female suspect linked to fake trading platform operated with Chinese ex-้ีhusband, September 10ม 2025.
BANGKOK — Thai authorities have broken up a massive investment fraud ring led by a Chinese businessman and his Thai ex-wife, uncovering a scam that bilked victims out of more than 654 million baht ($20.5 million) through fake stock trading websites.
Coordinated Raids Net Major Players
Technology Crime Suppression Division (TCSD) Commissioner Lt. Gen. Athip Pongsiwala announced the arrests following simultaneous raids across Bangkok, Nonthaburi, Pathum Thani, and Chiang Mai on September 11.
Police arrested Wang, a 40-year-old Chinese national running the operation, alongside his 33-year-old Thai ex-wife Rinyaphat and 13 other suspects. One additional accomplice already in prison was also charged.
The suspects face multiple charges including public fraud, identity theft, computer crimes, money laundering, and illegal gambling operations.
Cyber police apprehend Mr. Wang during evidence collection at his premises on September 10, 2025.
$660,000 in Assets Seized
The raids netted assets worth over 21 million baht ($660,000), including nine luxury cars, designer handbags and jewelry, cash in multiple currencies, dozens of phones and electronic devices, and more than 100 bank accounts and ATM cards.
How the Scam Worked
The sophisticated operation began with Facebook ads promoting investment opportunities on fake trading platforms called FINNIXMAX and CGS International. Interested victims were invited to LINE chat groups populated with over 100 fake accounts masquerading as successful traders and financial advisors.
“Victims could initially withdraw small amounts to build trust,” Lt. Gen. Athip explained. “But once they invested larger sums, the money disappeared and contact with the group vanished.”
The scammers even impersonated well-known investment personalities to boost credibility.
Lt. Gen. Athip Pongsiwala, head of Technology Crime Suppression Division, presents findings from “Operation 9.9 Fake Company” on September 11, 2025.
Criminal Enterprise with Clear Hierarchy
The network operated like a corporation with specialized divisions:
Account teams procured corporate bank accounts to receive victim funds.
Cash runners withdrew money within minutes of deposits and delivered it up the chain.
Translators coordinated with Chinese masterminds behind the scenes.
Money launderers converted cash to cryptocurrency for overseas transfer.
Workers earned either a percentage of withdrawals or flat fees ranging from 1,000 to 10,000 baht ($31-310) per job.
Police linked the network to 265 separate fraud cases across Thailand.
The total damage of 654 million baht ($20.5 million) makes this one of the largest online investment scams ever uncovered in the country.
Split-Second Money Transfers
Investigators revealed the group’s precise timing methods. Account holders would wait at shopping malls or coffee shops while victims made bank transfers. The moment money hit accounts, it was withdrawn within two minutes and passed along for cryptocurrency conversion.
“They evolved to use corporate accounts instead of personal ones,” said TCSD Deputy Commander Col. Suphot Pumyaem. “This made them harder to trace and appeared more legitimate to victims.”
The criminals purchased dormant company accounts or bought existing businesses and changed the authorized signatories to their own members.
During questioning, Wang and Rinyaphat denied the charges but admitted to collecting cash on instructions from another Chinese national. Several Thai suspects confessed to their roles in money withdrawals and transfers.
