Police Nab Major Chinese Scammer at Don Mueang Airport

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24 July 2025, 20:39

scam wang hao — Thai police arrest a 45-year-old Chinese suspect in major online fraud cases at the departure terminal of Don Mueang Airport in Bangkok on July 24, 2025.

BANGKOK — Thai police arrested a 45-year-old Chinese national at Don Mueang Airport on July 24 while he was attempting to flee to China, marking the latest bust in a series of major online fraud cases targeting both Thai and Chinese victims.

Wang Hao was apprehended at the departure terminal as he prepared to board an AirAsia flight to Kunming, China. He had been wanted on an arrest warrant issued by Nonthaburi Provincial Court since November 28, 2023.

Wang was allegedly part of a sophisticated fraud network that impersonated Krungthai Bank officials to target victims using the government’s digital wallet application. The scammers claimed the government was offering financial assistance to heavy digital wallet users who faced high tax burdens, promising monthly payments of 5,000 baht ($155) for two months.

scam wang hao1 — Thai police arrest a 45-year-old Chinese suspect in major online fraud cases at the departure terminal of Don Mueang Airport in Bangkok on July 24, 2025.

The operation involved adding victims as friends on LINE messaging app before sending malicious links to install fraudulent applications on their mobile devices. Through this scheme, the network successfully transferred a total of 1.55 million baht ($48,000) from victims’ accounts.

Wang faces multiple charges including theft, unauthorized use of electronic cards, illegal computer system access, data manipulation, fraudulent data entry, and money laundering. He has been transferred to the Technology Crime Investigation Division 2 for prosecution.

Part of Broader Crackdown

This arrest continues a wave of major online fraud busts across Thailand this month, particularly in the jurisdiction of Provincial Police Region 5. In the first major case in Hang Dong district, Chiang Mai province, authorities arrested 14 Chinese nationals operating from a luxury residence. Their operation defrauded over 100,000 Chinese victims—primarily elderly citizens aged 60-80—for damages exceeding $15 million.

A second case unfolded when Mae Ping Police Station officers responded to what appeared to be a simple dispute between a Chinese man and Thai woman at an ATM inside a popular Chiang Mai shopping center. Upon arrival, police discovered over 2.6 million baht ($80,000) scattered on the floor, leading to the arrest of one Thai woman and two Chinese men.

scam maeping — “Chiang Mai PCT police and Mae Ping Police Station officers interrogate two Chinese male suspects and one Thai woman hired to transfer and withdraw money for scammers at Mae Ping Police Station on July 17, 2025.

Investigation revealed this group was part of an investment fraud network led by a Chinese boss, targeting both Chinese and Thai victims with fake investment schemes. The two Chinese suspects served as cash withdrawal team leaders managing mule accounts and collecting funds for their boss, while the Thai woman—seeking money to pay off debts—was participating in cash withdrawal operations for the first time.

The total amount of money transferred and withdrawn for the scammer boss by all three suspects exceeded 4.9 million baht ($151,570).

Police have expanded their investigation to identify and arrest all associated network members in both cases, signaling an intensified crackdown on transnational online fraud operations using Thailand as a base.

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SIRIVANNAVARI, ICONCRAFT Present Thai Textile Treasures Craftsmanship 2025

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MC Marketing

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24 July 2025, 17:34

Honoring the weaving artistry of Thailand’s four regions and the refined wisdom of intricate embroidery, this collection embodies the “Royal Weave” concept—elevating Thai textiles onto the global stage.

SIRIVANNAVARI joins hands with ICONCRAFT, Thailand’s premier destination for inspiring, artisanal craftsmanship—to once again create a contemporary masterpiece through Thai textiles. The exclusive annual collection, “S’CRAFT: Craftsmanship 2025,” presents the distinctive identity of woven fabrics from Thailand’s four regions, intricately combined with the refined artistry of embroidery under the theme “Royal Weave.”

This year’s highlight includes a debut showcase of 88 one-of-a-kind Thai silk handbags, unveiled for the first time at “S’CRAFT THAI TEXTILE TREASURES: FOUR REGIONS, TIMELESS LEGACY CRAFTSMANSHIP 2025.”

The collection will be revealed through a fashion show featuring Thailand’s top models on Friday, August 1, 2025, at Suralai Hall, 7th Floor, ICONSIAM. The collection will then be officially available at ICONCRAFT on the 4th and 5th floors of ICONSIAM.

It has become an annual tradition for SIRIVANNAVARI and ICONCRAFT to co-create the “S’CRAFT” collection of Thai silk handbags, as part of ICONCRAFT’s Thai Textile Heroes campaign.

This initiative is dedicated to elevating Thai textiles, handicrafts, and local wisdom to the global stage. It reflects the royal aspirations of Her Royal Highness Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana Rajakanya, Creative Director of the SIRIVANNAVARI brand, who is deeply committed to continuing the legacy of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother in preserving and promoting Thai textiles rooted in traditional craftsmanship and local heritage.

Recently, UNESCO, headquartered in Paris, awarded Her Royal Highness a prestigious medal recognizing her dedication to preserving cultural heritage, promoting fine arts, and advancing Thailand’s cultural and creative industries. This honor highlights her outstanding contribution to cultural heritage and sustainable development, making her first Thai national to receive such a distinguished recognition.

“S’CRAFT: Craftsmanship 2025” returns with something truly special. This year, it highlights Thai fabric bags crafted with a contemporary design approach, where every item is made with precision to stand out as a unique work of art, one of its kind in the world.

Under the theme “Royal Weave,” the collection seamlessly blends the beauty of textiles from Thailand’s four regions—North, Northeast, Central, and South —with the exquisite embroidery expertise of SIRIVANNAVARI Atelier & Academy.

The collection meticulously draws from weaving patterns and techniques unique to each region, reinventing them into modern, yet authentic pieces that preserve their cultural roots. Embellished with embroidery featuring symbols or local materials from each area, these intricate designs perfectly balance modern creativity with deep respect for Thai heritage.

Starting with the North region, the collection features natural fiber textiles that capture the enchanting charm of tribal communities from various provinces, including royal projects in the region. These are paired with embroidery made from natural materials like cream-colored millets, intricately combined with crystals and beads to complement the woven patterns of local communities and tribes.

For the Central region, the collection features intricately woven fabrics inspired by traditional Thai architecture and craftsmanship. These textiles are further enhanced with contemporary Thai identity through sophisticated embroidery using metallic threads and sequins—materials that have adorned high-end textiles for centuries. The embellishments are beautifully combined with beads, floral crystals, and glass rods, evoking the richness and depth of Thai cultural heritage.

In the Northeast region, the focus is on Mudmee silk (known as ikat weaving) boasting beautiful textures and vivid patterns. These are adorned with colored crystals, glass rods, and glass beads that blend seamlessly with the geometric designs and colors of the silk.

For the South region, the collection highlights batik art, merging unique local craftsmanship with distinctive dyeing techniques. The embroidery uses natural materials such as pearls, shells, crystals, and glass beads to create lifelike three-dimensional patterns woven into the wonderful batik designs, evoking the imagery of foamy waves on sandy shores and thriving coral reefs.

The textiles from each region have been crafted into a variety of handbag styles that cater to fashion enthusiasts and the modern generation. In total, there are 88 handbags representing all four regions, including the “S’Signature Pouch,” a drawstring bag with a signature short strap; the “Busabong Bag,” a pleated bag distinguished by its intricate smocking; the “Bupa Wristlet,” a Japanese-style wristlet; the “Busaba Clutch,” a sleek long clutch ideal for evening wear; and the “Rachapruek Bag,” a compact rectangular handbag with sturdy handles. Each is decorated with SIRIVANNAVARI’s peacock emblem, unveiling its own unique charm—making them truly one-of-a-kind pieces worth collecting.

“S’CRAFT: Craftsmanship 2025” also features a special highlight—the “Luxe de Siam Exclusive Edit Clutch,” decorated with the elegant peacock emblem on beautifully woven textiles. This masterpiece was created by National Artist Mr. Meechai Taesuriya, renowned for iconic patterns such as Kabua fabric and Sin Muk Jok Dao (a specific woven textile from Ubon Ratchathani Province), and founder of the Ban Khampun Museum in Ubon Ratchathani.

Also contributing is Mr.Weeratham Taragoonngernthai, a revered master of Thai silk and founder of the “Chansoma” brand from the gold silk weaving community in Ban Thasawang, Surin Province. Only two exquisite clutches have been crafted, making them rare treasures for lovers of Thai textiles.

To celebrate this meaningful collaboration in elevating the artistry of Thai craftsmanship, SIRIVANNAVARI, in partnership with ICONCRAFT, is hosting “S’CRAFT THAI TEXTILE TREASURES: FOUR REGIONS, TIMELESS LEGACY CRAFTSMANSHIP 2025.”

The event will feature a special fashion show unveiling the “S’CRAFT: Craftsmanship 2025” handbag collection for the very first time, with distinguished guest models gracing the runway. The exclusive showcase will take place on August 1, 2025, at Suralai Hall, 7th floor, ICONSIAM, with the collection officially available for purchase at ICONCRAFT on the 4th and 5th floors of ICONSIAM.

Additionally, to honor and showcase the artistic vision and design brilliance of Her Royal Highness Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana Rajakanya, visitors are invited to explore a special exhibition presenting the intriguing story behind the 88 one-of-a-kind handbags from this special collection.

Each piece is intricately crafted from handwoven textiles representing Thailand’s four regions, inspired by Her Royal Highness’s exceptional creativity in art and design. The collection seamlessly blends traditional Thai wisdom with contemporary aesthetics, resulting in works of refined taste and global significance.

Also on display are exquisite embroidery masterpieces by the House of SIRIVANNAVARI created under the guidance of SIRIVANNAVARI Atelier & Academy. This exhibition reveals the delicate and precious embroidery techniques and stunning patterns that deeply reflect the Princess’s artistic and design prowess. The exhibition will be open to the public from August 1 to 31, 2025, at ICONCRAFT Globe, 4th floor, ICONSIAM.

“S’CRAFT: Craftsmanship 2025” is more than just an annual handbag collection—it is a celebration of local wisdom elevated through world-class design. The collection aims to pass on the enduring value of Thai craftsmanship by showcasing it on a national stage, inviting audiences to experience the beauty of Thai textiles through a fresh, contemporary, and global lens.

Thai textile enthusiasts are invited to admire and own a piece from the “S’CRAFT: Craftsmanship 2025” Thai silk handbag collection, available at ICONCRAFT, 4th and 5th floors, ICONSIAM, starting August 1, 2025. Follow for more updates and details on Facebook: ICONCRAFT.

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What’s Behind the Clash Between Thailand and Cambodia

By

Associated Press

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24 July 2025, 16:48

Thailand Cambodia — Thai people who fled clashes between Thai and Cambodian soldiers take shelter in Surin province, northeastern Thailand, Thursday, July 24, 2025. (AP Photo/Sunny Chittawil)

BANGKOK (AP) — Armed clashes broke out Thursday between Thailand and Cambodia in long-disputed border areas, rapidly escalating months-long tensions.

The fighting included gunfire exchanges and shelling and rocket fire, which Thai authorities said killed at least nine Thai civilians and injured 14 others in three provinces. Thailand responded with air strikes.

It was the second armed confrontation since a Cambodian soldier was shot dead in May and a major escalation that came hours after the two countries downgraded diplomatic relations following a land mine explosion that injured Thai soldiers.

Clashes are ongoing in at least six areas along the border, the Thai Defense Ministry said. The first clash Thursday morning happened in an area near the ancient Ta Muen Thom temple along the border of Surin and Cambodia’s Oddar Meanchey province.

Here’s what to know about the dispute between the two Southeast Asian neighbors.

AP25205121795611 — Local vehicles pass the Thai Embassy in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, Thursday, July 24, 2025. (AP Photo/Heng Sinith)

How the dispute began

The dispute flared in May after armed forces of Thailand and Cambodia briefly fired at each other in a relatively small, contested border area that each country claims as its own.

Both sides said they acted in self-defense. One Cambodian soldier was killed.

While the countries said afterwards they agreed to de-escalate the situation, Cambodian and Thai authorities continued to implement or threaten measures short of armed force, keeping tensions high.

Thailand added tight restrictions at the border with Cambodia that stopped almost all crossings except for students, medical patients and others with essential needs. On Thursday, Thai authorities announced they were sealing the border entirely.

Cambodia also banned Thai movies and TV shows, stopped the import of Thai fuel, fruits and vegetables and boycotted some of its neighbor’s international internet links and power supply.

AP25205176976221 — Thai people who fled clashes between Thai and Cambodian soldiers take shelter in Surin province, northeastern Thailand, Thursday, July 24, 2025. (AP Photo/Sunny Chittawil)

Fighting sparks political turmoil in Thailand

Nationalist passions on both sides have inflamed the situation.

Thailand’s Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra was suspended from office July 1 to be investigated for possible ethics violations over her handling of the border dispute following a leaked phone call with a senior Cambodian leader.

In the June call, Paetongtarn referred to Cambodian former Prime Minister Hun Sen as “uncle” and criticized Thai military leadership, remarks framed by critics as disrespectful to national sovereignty.

Hun Sen was succeeded by his son Hun Manet in 2023 but remains influential as Senate president. He was a longtime friend of her father, Thaksin Shinawatra, a popular but divisive former prime minister, but they became estranged over the border dispute.

The leaked call sparked widespread outrage and protests. Paetongtarn’s Pheu Thai party-led coalition also weakened when its second-largest partner, the Bhumjaithai Party, withdrew support, citing her perceived softness toward Cambodia.

Paetongtarn has apologized and argued her comments were a negotiating tactic. Her ally, former Defense Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, was appointed acting prime minister.

AP25204529108336 — In this photo released by the Royal Thai Army, Thai soldiers inspect a border area on Sunday, July 20, 2025, in Ubon Ratchathani province, where the Royal Thai Army said two anti-personnel landmines were found. (Royal Thai Army via AP)

Border claims cause periodic tensions

Border disputes are long-standing issues that have caused periodic tensions between the two neighbors. Thailand and Cambodia share more than 800 kilometers (500 miles) of land border.

The contesting claims stem largely from a 1907 map drawn under French colonial rule that was used to separate Cambodia from Thailand. Cambodia has been using the map as a reference to claim territory, while Thailand has argued the map is inaccurate.

The most prominent and violent conflicts have been around the 1,000-year-old Preah Vihear temple.

In 1962, the International Court of Justice awarded sovereignty over the temple area to Cambodia. The ruling became a major irritant in bilateral relations.

Cambodia went back to the court in 2011, following several clashes between its army and Thai forces that killed about 20 people and displaced thousands. The court reaffirmed the ruling in Cambodia’s favor in 2013.

Cambodia has again turned to the international court to resolve the border disputes but Thailand has rejected the court’s jurisdiction.

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Walailak University Hosts Landmark Inter-Asia Cultural Studies Conference in Southern Thailand

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MC Marketing

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24 July 2025, 16:05

NAKHON SI THAMMARAT – Walailak University made academic history this week as it hosted the Inter-Asia Cultural Studies Conference 2025, welcoming more than 500 participants from across 15 countries-the largest international academic event ever held in the province.

Held from July 23-25 at the Twin Lotus Hotel, the conference brought together scholars, researchers, and graduate students from Asia, Europe, the Americas, and Australia under the theme “Geo-Social Connection: The Continuing Journey of Critical Inquiry.” The event was organized by the School of Political Science and Public Administrationin collaboration with the Center for Geo-Social and Cultural Research for Sustainable Development, and supported by the Inter-Asia Cultural Studies Society.

The opening ceremony was presided over by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Surin Maisrikrod, Vice President of Walailak University. The organizing committee led by Asst. Prof. Dr. Siriporn Somboonboorana, Chair of the Organizing Committee, Viriya Sawangchot and Dr. Tipaya Peungcharoenkun, Coordinator-in-Chief, jointly welcomed participants from across the region and beyond.

“This conference isn’t just about research-it’s about putting Nakhon Si Thammarat on the global academic map,” said Dr. Siriporn. “Bringing top scholars from across Asia and beyond to our province shows that meaningful knowledge doesn’t have to come from traditional centers of power. It can start right here-with local voices, shared experiences, and critical conversations that matter to the world.”

The conference featured an impressive lineup of internationally renowned scholars, including Prof. Chen Kuan-Hsing, founder of the Inter-Asia Cultural Studies Society; Prof. Chua Beng Huat, Emeritus Professor of Sociology at the National University of Singapore; and Prof. Meaghan Morris, cultural studies pioneer from the University of Sydney. Also seen at the opening were Dr. Andy Chih-Ming Wang, Chair of the Inter-Asia Cultural Studies Society, and Asst. Prof. Dr. Thiti Jamkajornkeiat, Pacific and Asian Studies, University of Victoria.

Across three days of panels, workshops, and hallway conversations, the event will definitely reaffirm the relevance of Asia not just as a topic of study, but as a source of theory, critique, and global engagement. It is expected to underscore Walailak University’s growing role in international academic exchange and position Nakhon Si Thammarat as a rising destination for global scholarly collaboration in the humanities and social sciences.

Thai Children Die as Thailand-Cambodia Border Clash Turns Deadly

By

Khaosod English

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24 July 2025, 15:46

khmer war2 — Thai authorities evacuate civilians including elderly and children from Ban Kruad subdistrict, Buriram province, to shelters after Cambodian attacks left people injured and livestock dead on July 24, 2025.

BANGKOK — Thailand launched airstrikes on Cambodian ground targets Thursday as a deadly border conflict escalated dramatically. At least twelve Thai civilians, including two children, were killed and dozens were injured in civilian areas in Thailand, while diplomatic relations between the Southeast Asian neighbors plunged to their lowest level.

The Thai army confirmed it used jets to drop bombs on targets in Cambodia, while the Cambodian Defense Ministry said the strikes hit a road near the ancient Preah Vihear temple.

Clashes at Least Six Areas

Clashes are now ongoing in at least six areas along the contested border: Prasat Ta Muen Thom, Prasat Ta Kwai, Chong Bok, Khao Phra Wihan (Huai Ta Maria/Phu Ma Kheua), Chong An Ma, and Chong Jom, marking the most serious confrontation between the countries in years.

The National Police Office reported updated civilian death toll from Cambodian attacks on Thursday evening increased to 12 people. Of these, 8 were in Sisaket province, 3 in Surin province, and 1 in Ubon Ratchathani province

khmer war1 — Artillery fire from Cambodian forces strikes a PTT gas station in Sisaket province, about 20 km from the border, killing 2 people on July 24, 2025.

Subsequently, Thailand’s Ministry of Education ordered the closure of all 582 schools under its jurisdiction in the affected areas in Surin, Sisaket, and Buriram provinces.

Conflicting Accounts of Who Fired First

Both sides accused each other of initiating Thursday’s violence. The Thai army said its forces heard an unmanned aerial vehicle before seeing six armed Cambodian soldiers moving closer to Thailand’s station. Thai soldiers tried to shout at them to defuse the situation, but the Cambodian side opened fire first, according to the Thai side.

Cambodia’s Defense Ministry countered that Thailand started the armed clash and Cambodia “acted strictly within the bounds of self-defense, responding to an unprovoked incursion by Thai troops that violated our territorial integrity.”

Diplomatic Relations Collapse

The military confrontation coincided with a complete breakdown in diplomatic relations. Cambodia announced on July 24 it was downgrading diplomatic ties to their lowest level, expelling the Thai ambassador and recalling all Cambodian staff from its embassy in Bangkok. This followed Thailand’s decision on July 23 to close northeastern border crossings, withdraw its ambassador, and expel the Cambodian envoy.

“The Royal Thai Government condemns in the strongest terms the violations of Thailand’s sovereignty and international law,” Thailand’s Foreign Affairs Ministry said in a statement, citing what it called “intentional and premeditated” acts by Cambodia.

Hun Manet Defends Military Response

Cambodia’s Prime Minister Hun Manet defended his country’s actions, saying Thailand attacked Cambodian army positions at Prasat Ta Muen Thom temple and Ta Kwai (Ta Krabey) temple in the disputed border area between Thailand’s Surin province and Cambodia’s Oddar Meanchey province, with fighting later expanding to areas along Cambodia’s Preah Vihear province and Thailand’s Ubon Ratchathani province.

“Cambodia has always maintained a position of peaceful resolution of problems, but in this case, we have no choice but to respond with armed force against armed aggression,” Hun Manet said.

AP25195359714949 — In this photo released by Agence Kampuchea Press (AKP), Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet delivers a speech during ceremony to put in used the military building in northern Kampong Chhnang province, Monday, July 14, 2025. (AKP via AP)

Both Nations Appeal for International Support

Subsequently, Hun Manet sent a letter to Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Pakistan to the United Nations in his capacity as President of the UN Security Council (UNSC), requesting an emergency meeting. He stated that Thailand was the aggressor, threatening regional stability.

Jirayu Huangsap, Thai government spokesperson and member of the Special Task Force for Thai-Cambodian Border Situation Management (SB.TK.), accused Cambodia of initiating hostilities by firing on Thai soldiers first. He alleged that Cambodia continues to target civilian areas with heavy weapons and called for international condemnation of what he termed Cambodia’s actions, claiming the country shows disregard for human rights principles.

Political Leaders Trade Accusations on Social Media

Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen posted on Facebook urging people not to panic and to have faith in their government and military, while nationalist passions on both sides have further inflamed the volatile situation.

AP25204529075129 — In this Sunday, July, 2025, photo released by the Royal Thai Army, Thai soldiers inspect a border area in Ubon Ratchathani†province where the Royal Thai Army said two anti-personnel landmines were found. (Royal Thai Army via AP)

Meanwhile, suspended Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra shared an Instagram story with a news image of the Cambodian Defense Ministry spokesperson claiming Thailand fired first, along with the message “As expected! They shoot first then say we started it!” She also shared a news image of Hun Sen stating that Cambodia had no choice but to fight back, with the message “As expected!!! Playing the victim!!!!”

Former PM Thaksin Shinawatra also posted on X, saying “Today, Hun Sen ordered firing into Thai territory early in the morning, initiating the attack after setting up explosive traps along the border. From now on, Thai soldiers can respond according to strategic plans, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs can rightfully implement various measures.”

Landmine Incidents Sparked Crisis

The current escalation began with a series of landmine incidents that Thailand blamed on Cambodia. On Wednesday, a landmine blast near the border wounded five Thai soldiers, one of whom lost a leg. A week earlier, another mine explosion wounded three Thai soldiers, with one losing a foot.

Thai officials said the mines were newly laid along paths that by mutual agreement were supposed to be safe for patrols on July 16 and 23. They characterized the mines as Russian-made and not of a type used by Thailand’s military.

AP25204529063632 — Thai soldiers inspect a border area in Ubon Ratchathani†province where the Royal Thai Army said two anti-personnel landmines were found. (Royal Thai Army via AP)

Cambodia rejected Thailand’s account as “baseless accusations,” pointing out that many unexploded mines and other ordnance remain as a legacy of 20th century wars and unrest in the region.

Regional Implications

The Thai embassy in Phnom Penh urged Thai nationals in Cambodia to leave the country if possible and advised others not to travel to Cambodia unless absolutely necessary, warning that clashes “could continue to escalate.”

Relations between the neighbors have deteriorated sharply since May, when a Cambodian soldier was killed in an armed confrontation in one of several small patches of land both countries claim as their territory.

Thailand warned it stands ready to “intensify self-defense measures” if Cambodia continues its attacks, emphasizing that any military response would be conducted “in accordance with international law and principles.”

The crisis has also created domestic political complications for Thailand, where the prime minister was suspended from office on July 1 to be investigated for possible ethics violations over her handling of the border dispute.

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Hylife Global Foods Partners with Maejo University for Youth Empowerment

By

MC Marketing

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24 July 2025, 15:40

Hylife Global Foods Co., Ltd., an affiliate of Hylife Group, continues its mission to sustainably develop human capital by partnering with the Faculty of Business Administration, Maejo University. The two parties have officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to foster academic collaboration, aiming to enhance students’ hands-on experience and skills in preparation for the professional world and future entrepreneurship.

The signing ceremony, held on the 23rd of July 2025, was honoured by executives from Hylife Group, led by Dr. Bundit Jamras, Chief Executive Officer of Hylife Global Foods Co., Ltd., and Ms. Nintnara Manothip, Group Vice President of Marketing of Hylife Group. Representing Maejo University was Associate Professor Dr. Weerapon Thongma, President of Maejo University. The event was also witnessed by senior executives from both organisations.

This MOU outlines collaborative efforts in various areas, including teaching and learning, research and development, academic services, entrepreneurship, cooperative education, internships, and student projects. Hylife Global Foods will support activities such as special lectures by industry experts, professional training, and site visits to actual workplaces.

Dr. Bundit Jamras, CEO of Hylife Global Foods Co., Ltd., stated “We are truly delighted to collaborate with Maejo University. We believe that strong partnerships between the private and academic sectors are key to sustainable human capital development. In particular, practical learning opportunities will empower students to grow into capable professionals, confident and equipped with a true understanding of the business world.”

Associate Professor Dr. Weerapon Thongma, President of Maejo University, added “This collaboration marks a significant step in developing our students into graduates with both academic excellence and professional skills. In today’s rapidly changing world, real-world business experiences are essential in preparing students for the workforce in the most effective way.”

Hylife Group remains committed to building strong alliances with the academic sector to jointly shape the future of younger generations. Through modern and dynamic learning approaches that reflect current technological, economic, and social changes, the company believes that nurturing talent within university walls will lay a strong foundation for developing quality professionals—future drivers of the economy who will create lasting value for society.

BMA launches ‘Safe Schools, Free from Fire Hazards with Innovations from Food Waste’ project

By

MC Marketing

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24 July 2025, 10:02

(July 4, 2025, 9:00 a.m.) – The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has launched the “Safe Schools, Free from Fire Hazards with Innovations from Food Waste” project, introducing a new fire retardant made from food waste shells.

Bangkok Deputy Governors – Assoc. Prof. Tavida Kamolvej and Sanon Wangsrangboon – participated in the event at the HDF Mercy Centre in Khlong Toei district.

Sanon explained that the project addresses three key areas simultaneously: safety, food waste reduction, and child development.

He elaborated, saying, “In fact, early childhood care involves two main components. The first is the school environment, which the BMA can fully support as it is a government area, and we can allocate funds to develop it.”

“The second part involves daycare centres, mostly located within community areas, where we cannot allocate government funds for development as they are privately run.”

However, Sanon said that the BMA is fortunate to receive cooperation from numerous private partners. He noted that the HDF Mercy Centre, which cares for many children, has some facilities that require improvements.

“When our partners contacted us, we immediately thought of this place. There are many other places that also need help. Personally, I feel very grateful and thank all the partners who have joined us in this effort,” he added.

BMA, in collaboration with Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park Hotel, the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI), the National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA), the National Nanotechnology Centre (NANOTEC), and Beger Group, has launched the “Safe Schools, Free from Fire Hazards with Innovations from Food Waste” project.

This initiative brings together government, private sector, and community efforts to utilise innovations from organic waste to enhance safety at the HDF Mercy Centre in Khlong Toei district.

The project stems from the concept of reducing organic waste at the hotel, particularly oyster shells discarded from the Goji Kitchen + Bar buffet, which amount to as much as one tonne per month.

Through a systematic waste management and separation process, the hotel has been able to pass on these materials to the research team for efficient development.

Dr. Chutiparn Lertvachirapaiboon and his team of nanomaterials researchers (RNM) and researchers specialising in responsive materials and nanotechnology sensors (RMNS), supported by the National Research Council of Thailand (NRCT), have processed the oyster shells into calcium carbonate, which is used as a precursor for producing nano-calcium phosphate. This material can be prepared in both solid powder and liquid forms.

An example of the application of nano-calcium hydrogen phosphate is its ability to disperse in water for spraying on surfaces requiring fire-retardant properties. The material has passed UL94V-0 testing standards and can extinguish flames within 10 seconds without any flame dripping.

The project has also received support from Beger Group, who have analysed and tested the substance to develop it into “fire-retardant paint” made from food waste oyster shells for household use.

This marks the first time in Thailand that such a product has been developed for use on buildings, adding value to waste and benefiting vulnerable communities.

At today’s event, Simon Bell, General Manager of Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park Hotel; Dr. Uracha Raktanonchai, Director of NANOTEC under NSTDA; Dr. Worawat Chaiyosburana, CEO of Beger Group; executives from HDF Mercy Centre, BMA, Khlong Toei District Office, and other relevant stakeholders participated in the launch.

#BMA #Bangkok #foodwaste #paint #community #KhlongToei #HDFMercyCentre #firehazards

Thailand and Cambodia Recall Ambassadors as Border Dispute Flares

By

Associated Press

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24 July 2025, 10:01

By JINTAMAS SAKSORNCHAI

BANGKOK (AP) — Thailand closed northeastern border crossings with Cambodia and said Wednesday it was withdrawing its ambassador and expelling the Cambodian ambassador to protest a land mine blast in which a Thai soldier lost a leg.

Cambodia responded Thursday that it was downgrading diplomatic relations with Thailand to their lowest level and recalling all Cambodian staff from its embassy in Bangkok.

Relations between the Southeast Asian neighbors have deteriorated sharply since May when a Cambodian soldier was killed in an armed confrontation in one of several small patches of land both countries claim as their own territory.

another landmine — An injured Thai soldier who stepped on a land mine is airlifted to a hospital in Ubon Ratchathani province, Thailand, Wednesday, July 23, 2025. (The Royal Thai Army)

Nationalist passions on both sides have further inflamed the situation, and Thailand’s prime minister was suspended from office on July 1 to be investigated for possible ethics violations over her handling of the border dispute.

The Thai army said the land mine that wounded five soldiers Wednesday had been placed in Thailand’s Ubon Ratchathani province. Cambodia said the blast happened in its Preah Vihear province. A week earlier, a land mine in a different contested area exploded and wounded three Thai soldiers when one of them stepped on it and lost a foot.

Thai authorities have alleged the mines were newly laid along paths that by mutual agreement were supposed to be safe. They said the mines were Russian-made and not of a type employed by Thailand’s military.

The army statement called on Cambodia “to take responsibility for this incident, which constitutes a serious threat to peace and stability in the border region between the two countries.” After last week’s blast, Thailand accused Cambodia of violating the Ottawa Treaty, an international pact that bans the production and use of anti-personnel land mines.

Cambodia rejected Thailand’s account as “baseless accusations.”

Defense Ministry spokesperson Lt. Gen. Maly Socheata said the land mine explosion took place on Cambodian territory and alleged Thailand had violated a 2000 agreement “regarding the use of agreed paths for patrols.”

Cambodia has denied that it laid new mines along the border, pointing out that many unexploded mines and other ordnance are a legacy of 20th century wars and unrest.

Thailand’s acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai said the Foreign Ministry would make an official protest to Cambodia, and further measures would be considered.

Cambodia’s Foreign Ministry said in a statement Thursday that it demanded all Thai diplomatic staff leave Cambodia and was recalling Cambodia staffers at the embassy in Bangkok.

Many border checkpoints had already been closed by one side or the other or operated with restrictions after relations between the neighbors deteriorated following an armed confrontation on May 28 in which one Cambodian soldier was killed in one of the contested areas.

Cambodia has banned Thai movies and TV shows, stopped the import of Thai fruits and vegetables and boycotted some of its neighbor’s international internet links and power supply. It also stopped importing fuel from Thailand.

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Associated Press writer Sopheng Cheang in Phnom Penh, Cambodia contributed to this report.

Bangkok Teams Up with Health Ministry to Boost HIV and STI Prevention

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Contributor

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24 July 2025, 09:43

(July 4, 2025) – Bangkok is strengthening its efforts to combat HIV and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) through a new collaborative initiative.

The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA), the Ministry of Public Health (MOPH), and various partner networks have joined forces to systematically promote prevention and enhance public health.

Dr. Sunthorn Sunthornchart, Deputy Permanent Secretary for the BMA, today welcomed participants to the launch event held at King Mongkut’s Institute of Technology Ladkrabang (KMITL).

The campaign, themed “Equality with Safety: HPV x Condom – Smooth or Rough, Confident and Disease-Free,” saw the Minister of Public Health Somsak Thepsutin preside over the opening ceremony, joined by executives from several organisations.

Dr Sunthorn highlighted the collaboration between the MOPH’s Department of Disease Control, the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, and the BMA.

The partnership aims to enhance STI prevention and bolster immunity against the Human Papillomavirus (HPV).

“The Ministry of Public Health has been implementing a policy to provide HPV vaccinations to Thai women aged 11–20, both within and outside the education system,” Dr Sunthorn explained. “We’ve now expanded this to include female university students who haven’t previously been vaccinated.”

HPV is a leading cause of cervical cancer, one of the most prevalent cancers among Thai women.

“On behalf of the BMA, I’m delighted to support STI prevention and boost immunity to reduce illness and mortality from cervical cancer,” he added.

The AIDS and STIs Division of the MOPH’s Department of Disease Control, in conjunction with the BMA and its network partners, has designed the “Equality with Safety” campaign to bolster systematic HIV and STI prevention measures.

A key objective is to provide the public with convenient, rapid, and comprehensive access to HIV and STI screening, diagnosis, and care services for all target groups.

The initiative also advocates for individuals to choose prevention methods best suited to their needs.

This includes emphasising the correct and consistent use of condoms during all sexual encounters and exploring supplementary measures such as Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) and Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) for HIV, along with continued HPV vaccination. These steps are crucial for promoting self-care, enhancing quality of life, and ensuring safety.

Furthermore, the collaboration seeks to strengthen networks both within and outside the Ministry of Public Health to improve STI prevention efforts among young people and to raise broader social awareness about condom use.

The launch event featured numerous exhibition booths from various partner organisations, providing educational resources and promoting STI prevention. Highlights included:

Automatic vending machines from Sun Vending Co.

An HPV vaccination point by the General Communicable Diseases Division.

The Pride Clinic by the BMA Health Department.

Information on the Pao Tang App from the National Health Security Office.

The Stand by You service by Siriraj Hospital.

CU Buddy Clinic by Chulalongkorn Hospital.

The Teen Club by the Department of Health’s Bureau of Reproductive Health.

Proactive PrEP services by Mplus Foundation.

Educational material on HIV/STIs/Protection from the AIDS and STIs Division.
Insights and knowledge shared by lecturers and students from KMITL.

The event drew a diverse audience of approximately 1,000 participants, including Dr Opas Karnkawinpong, Permanent Secretary for Public Health, other MOPH executives, KMITL executives, students, youth, public health volunteers from Samut Prakan Province and Bangkok, as well as representatives from government, private, and civil society organisations.

#Bangkok #BMA #BangkokHealth #STIAwareness #HIVPrevention
#HPVVaccine #PublicHealth #ThailandCare #Healthcare

Thai Hotels Urge Govt to Ensure Tourist Safety Amid Sharp Visitor Decline

By

Khaosod English

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23 July 2025, 22:14

BANGKOK — The Thai Hotels Association (THA) has called on the government to take immediate action to protect tourist safety as the country faces its worst tourism crisis in recent memory, with foreign visitor numbers dropping significantly in the first half of 2025.

THA President Teinprasit Chaiyapatranun revealed alarming statistics showing foreign tourist arrivals fell 4.66% to 16.68 million visitors during January-June 2025, compared to 17.5 million in the same period last year. The decline marks an unprecedented five-month consecutive downturn that has left the hospitality industry reeling.

The Asia-Pacific region, traditionally Thailand’s largest source market, experienced the steepest decline at 12.01%. China, the country’s top tourism market, saw arrivals plummet 41.94% in June alone, with a 34.13% decrease for the entire six-month period showing no signs of recovery.

tourist safety2 — CCTV monitor screens inside the mobile tourist service vehicle (CCOC Mobile) display real-time surveillance footage from multiple camera locations throughout Pattaya’s tourist areas, enabling authorities to monitor crowd activity and maintain security across key entertainment and shopping districts.

“I have never seen such a drastic drop,” Chaiyapatranun stated. “In the past, after major accidents, tourist numbers would decrease but then recover. However, this year, the decline has been continuous for five months.”

Other key Asian markets including Malaysia, South Korea, Laos, Indonesia, and Taiwan all recorded significant decreases. Even countries showing overall growth for the first half of 2025, such as the United States and Japan, experienced declines in June.

Bright spots emerged from longer-haul markets, with Oceania (Australia and New Zealand) growing 11.92%, Europe up 16.64%, and the Americas increasing 10.37%. However, these gains failed to offset losses from the crucial Asian market.

The THA president expressed frustration that while outbound travel from countries like China and Japan has increased, fewer visitors are choosing Thailand as their destination, indicating deeper structural issues affecting the kingdom’s tourism appeal.

koh chang kood — Tourists heading to Koh Kud board boats at Laem Sok Pier in Mueang District, Trat Province, on June 28, 2025.

Following discussions with Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong, Chaiyapatranun acknowledged government promises of immediate action but emphasized that intervention should have come much earlier.

“The government must erase the damage to the image that has occurred and conduct proactive public relations,” he said. “We must seriously adjust now. If we don’t do anything, Thai tourism will surely face difficulties in the future.”

The association highlighted critical safety and service issues that require urgent government attention, including persistent problems with taxi drivers refusing to use meters and the need for serious crackdowns on call center gangs targeting foreign visitors.

yala tourist — Thai and Malaysian tourists visit the Sky Walk to view the sea of mist at Aiyerweng, Aiyerweng Subdistrict, Betong District, Yala Province on June 21, 2025.

“The most important thing is to build confidence that traveling in Thailand is safe,” Chaiyapatranun emphasized. “The government must solve the clear problems of foreign tourists being cheated in Thailand.”

The tourism crisis represents a significant challenge for Thailand’s economy, with the sector traditionally contributing approximately 12% of the country’s GDP before the pandemic. The sustained decline threatens thousands of jobs across the hospitality, transportation, and service industries.

Industry leaders are calling for comprehensive reforms to restore Thailand’s reputation as a safe and welcoming destination, warning that without decisive action, the country’s tourism sector faces an uncertain future in an increasingly competitive regional market.

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