Thailand Seeks JBC Talks to De-escalate Over Cambodian Checkpoints

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13 June 2025, 21:29

Cambodia abruptly closes a checkpoint next to Chanthaburi province without informing the Thai counterpart on Friday morning, causing cargo trucks to queue for several hours at the border gate until the checkpoint reopens at 5 p.m. on June 13, 2025.

BANGKOK — Thailand’s Foreign Ministry is coordinating with Cambodian officials to clarify misunderstandings after tensions escalated over border checkpoint closures, with officials hoping the upcoming Joint Border Committee (JBC) meeting will help de-escalate the dispute that has disrupted cross-border traffic and trade.

The dispute intensified when Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet posted a late Thursday statement addressing what he called threats from “some Thai extremist groups” to cut electricity and internet services to Cambodia. In his social media post, Hun Manet declared that Cambodia would ensure its own electricity and internet supply without relying on Thai purchases.

The Cambodian Ministry of Information subsequently announced the suspension of all Thai dramas and films on Cambodian television.

paetong hun manet — Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet (R) and visiting Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra unveil a plaque marking the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries in Phnom Penh, Cambodia on April 23, 2025. (Photo by Nitola/Xinhua)

Hun Sen Announces 6 Retaliatory Measures

Senate President Hun Sen escalated tensions further by announcing six retaliatory measures if Thailand fails to reopen border checkpoints:

Trade Suspension: Halt imports of Thai goods and replace them with domestic or non-Thai products
Agricultural Support: Purchase agricultural products that Cambodians previously exported to Thailand, seeking alternative domestic and international markets
Medical Redirection: Redirect patients who sought treatment in Thailand to domestic hospitals or medical facilities in other countries
Labor Management: Prepare to receive returning Cambodian workers from Thailand, citing severe discrimination in certain Thai areas
Military Alert: Keep all armed forces on 24-hour alert status
Border Evacuation Plans: Prepare border provinces to evacuate residents and ensure supplies of food, medicine, and essential materials

Hun Sen warned that Cambodia would implement all measures if Thailand doesn’t normalize border operations, while urging Cambodians not to engage in extremist acts against Thai interests.

Thai Government Denies Electricity Cut Threats

Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra responded Friday, stating that Cambodia has misunderstood the situation and incorrectly believes the Thai government plans to cut electricity and internet services to border areas.

She emphasized this is not the case and has instructed the Foreign Ministry to clarify the matter with Cambodian counterparts.

Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Phumtham Wechayachai added that coordination efforts are underway to ensure mutual understanding. He expressed hope for improved bilateral relations during the Joint Border Committee (JBC) meeting scheduled for June 14, aiming to separate the two sides and restore normalcy along the Thai-Cambodia border through the Regional Border Committee (RBC) mechanism.

checkpoint trat — Mali, 32, a Cambodian woman, takes her kindergarten-age son to Ban Hat Lek School in Khlong Yai district, Trat province, Thailand, located about 400 meters from the border. She revealed she brought her son to wait at Koh Kong checkpoint before 9 a.m. on June 9, 2025.

Border Checkpoint Chaos Disrupts Trade

The confusion manifested physically at the Ban Laem permanent checkpoint in Pong Nam Ron district, Chanthaburi province. At 11:10 a.m., Cambodian authorities closed the checkpoint without notice while the Thai side remained open for normal crossings, causing over 100 cargo vehicles to queue in lengthy traffic jams.

Cambodia initially opened only pedestrian walkways to expedite citizens’ return to their respective countries. Following local-level discussions between Thai and Cambodian officials, both sides reopened the checkpoint at 5:00 p.m. to clear the backlog.

thai cambodia chanthaburi2 — Thai cargo trucks finally cross into the Cambodian checkpoint opposite Chanthaburi province on the evening of June 13, following negotiations between both sides.

Approximately 120 Thai vehicles were stranded on the Thai side, while 70 large container trucks were backed up on the Cambodian side. Thai authorities prioritized clearing smaller Thai vehicles first before allowing large Cambodian container trucks to cross.

Industry Concerns Over Economic Impact

Dr. Ratthawit Tangkiertpachon, president of the Thailand-Cambodia Border Trade and Tourism Association in Chanthaburi, revealed that the vehicle clearance resulted from local-level negotiations between Cambodia’s Battambang province, military units, and the border trade association based on their positive relationship.

“Regarding the current situation, I admit there are concerns it could escalate to affect foreign workers, such as those in fruit packing facilities, who work in Thailand,” he said. “However, if other checkpoints remain open normally, I don’t think there will be much impact.”

The tensions, which started from the fatal clash between both sides on May 28, 2025, highlight ongoing challenges in Thai-Cambodian relations, with both governments seeking to manage the situation through diplomatic channels.

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Anonymous Bomb Threat Disrupts Air India Phuket Flight – No Arrests

By

Khaosod English

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13 June 2025, 20:00

PHUKET — An Air India flight bound for New Delhi successfully departed Phuket International Airport on Friday afternoon after authorities conducted a thorough security investigation following a bomb threat discovered mid-flight. Despite extensive searches, officials were unable to identify who wrote the threatening message.

The incident began at 09.30 a.m. on June 13 when Air India crew members on flight HKT-DEL discovered a handwritten bomb threat in the aircraft’s restroom after takeoff. The message, written on paper, read “F*** you all bomb” – language authorities deemed threatening and dangerous.

The airline immediately declared an emergency and instructed pilots to return to Phuket International Airport at 10.00 a.m. Airport officials activated their Airport Contingency Plan and established an Emergency Operations Center (EOC) to assess the situation and coordinate all response operations.

airindia phuket1 — Phuket Airport officials hold joint press conference with Air India representatives following incident with Flight AI 379, which was forced to return and land at Phuket Airport after crew discovered bomb threat message. No explosives found after investigation. June 13, 2025.

The aircraft was directed to parking bay 99, an isolated area separate from main operations. All 156 passengers were evacuated to the Passenger Holding Area (Bus Gates 81-82) where they underwent thorough security screening along with their luggage.

Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) teams conducted systematic searches of the aircraft.
After finding no suspicious objects or threats aboard the plane, Air India received clearance for the flight to depart again at 4:15 a.m. Of the original 156 passengers, 155 continued their journey to New Delhi. One Indian male passenger chose not to continue but was not considered a suspect.

airindia phuket2 — Police officers and EOD teams conduct a search of luggage and belongings of Air India Flight AI 379 passengers after the aircraft returned to land at Phuket Airport following crew discovery of bomb threat message on June 13, 2025.

Phuket Airport Director Monchai Tanode, speaking alongside Air India representatives and airport management, confirmed that investigators could not determine which passenger wrote the threatening message. “We cannot identify who among the passengers wrote this threat, so we cannot detain anyone,” he stated.

The airline conducted an internal investigation and categorized potentially relevant passengers into two groups: those seated near the restroom area and a family involved in a seating dispute. However, Air India declined to provide additional details as evidence collection remains ongoing.

airindia phuket3 — An Air India, flight AI 379, which was bound for New Delhi, makes an emergency landing back at Phuket Airport
after it received a report that a pilot found a bomb threat message shortly after it took off from Phuket earlier, Friday, June 13, 2025.

Airport officials emphasized that the incident did not affect other flight operations and that the airport continues to maintain the highest safety standards to ensure confidence among passengers and all airlines using the facility.

The bomb threat incident occurred just one day after a tragic Air India Boeing 787 crash in Ahmedabad, Gujarat state, where the aircraft went down minutes after takeoff, killing nearly all 242 passengers and crew members aboard. Only one British passenger survived, while at least 24 people on the ground were also killed.

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ONYX Hospitality Group Unveils “Amari Bangsaen” – A Vibrant New Beachfront Destination

By

MC Marketing

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13 June 2025, 20:00

Catering to Every Lifestyle with World-Class Service, Amari Bangsaen is Set to Create Unforgettable Vacation Moments

ONYX Hospitality Group, a leading hospitality management company in Southeast Asia with a diverse portfolio of hotels, resorts, serviced apartments, and luxury residences, continues to pursue its vision of becoming “The Best Medium-sized Hospitality Management Company in Southeast Asia.” The company has introduced its latest stylish property, Amari Bangsaen, acknowledging Bangsaen’s appeal as a key beachfront destination for Thai and international travelers seeking a coastal escape near Bangkok. It is dedicated to turning exceptional experiences into lasting memories.

Catering to Every Lifestyle with World-Class Service, Amari Bangsaen is Set to Create Unforgettable Vacation Moments

ONYX Hospitality Group, a leading hospitality management company in Southeast Asia with a diverse portfolio of hotels, resorts, serviced apartments, and luxury residences, continues to pursue its vision of becoming “The Best Medium-sized Hospitality Management Company in Southeast Asia.” The company has introduced its latest stylish property, Amari Bangsaen, acknowledging Bangsaen’s appeal as a key beachfront destination for Thai and international travelers seeking a coastal escape near Bangkok. It is dedicated to turning exceptional experiences into lasting memories.

Located directly across from the iconic Bangsaen Beach, Amari Bangsaen is a relaxing beachfront retreat in the city’s heart, offering effortless beach access. Whether it’s a fun-filled family getaway, a lively trip with friends, or a romantic escape for couples, guests can enjoy a bustling seaside vacation experience. At Amari Bangsaen, every stay is thoughtfully crafted to create unforgettable moments in every dimension. Guests can expect full-service hospitality that meets international standards, from meticulously designed accommodations that blend style and comfort to a wide selection of room types—from deluxe rooms to spacious suites. With a total of 154 rooms, the hotel caters to all lifestyles, including business travellers visiting nearby industrial estates. For those seeking a venue near Bangkok for meetings, corporate events, or romantic weddings with stunning views of the Bangsaen sea, Amari Bangsaen offers 15 medium to large function rooms that can host up to 1,000 guests.

Yuthachai Charanachit, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of ONYX Hospitality Group, said, “Amari Bangsaen is another remarkable addition to the Amari brand, positioned as an upper-upscale hotel offering full-service hospitality. The hotel is situated in a high-potential location with steady economic growth, particularly in the tourism sector. One key reason for adding this property is its highly convenient location—just a short drive from Bangkok, close to Pattaya, and near popular destinations in Chonburi province. It’s intended to meet the diverse needs of today’s travelers, whether they’re here for leisure, business, or large-scale events.”

In addition to its contemporary and thoughtfully designed rooms, Amari Bangsaen offers a variety of dining options crafted to delight every palate. At the heart of the culinary experience is Amaya Food Gallery, an all-day dining restaurant that features a harmonious blend of Asian and Western flavors. Guests can enjoy a delicious buffet breakfast, à la carte selections, or set menus for lunch and dinner—perfect for food lovers eager to explore Thai and international cuisine. Guests can also indulge in a signature Thai cocktail, thoughtfully crafted to reflect the charm of Thai hospitality, at Maitree Bar. For a more laid-back vibe, head to Aqua Eatery & Bar, the perfect spot to unwind by the large swimming pool with refreshing drinks, tasty snacks, and a daily Happy Hour promotion. Craving a seaside setting? Aloha Beach Cafe offers it all—great atmosphere, delicious food, and creative cocktails.

Guests can also unwind and rejuvenate at Breeze Spa, where a variety of spa treatments are designed to relax the body, ease fatigue, and leave guests feeling refreshed, ready to embrace new and memorable experiences. For guests looking to enhance their physical fitness, the “FIT Centre” offers a comprehensive workout experience featuring professional-grade equipment and weight training facilities tailored to meet diverse fitness goals. Meanwhile, little ones can dive into a world of imagination at the Kids’ Club, a cheerful space designed for children to unleash their energy freely and enjoy endless fun.

Amari Bangsaen is now ready to provide a welcoming and enjoyable accommodation experience, making every stay a memorable moment for every traveler. For more information or to make a reservation, please call 038-399200 or visit www.amari.com/bangsaen.

Located directly across from the iconic Bangsaen Beach, Amari Bangsaen is a relaxing beachfront retreat in the city’s heart, offering effortless beach access. Whether it’s a fun-filled family getaway, a lively trip with friends, or a romantic escape for couples, guests can enjoy a bustling seaside vacation experience. At Amari Bangsaen, every stay is thoughtfully crafted to create unforgettable moments in every dimension. Guests can expect full-service hospitality that meets international standards, from meticulously designed accommodations that blend style and comfort to a wide selection of room types—from deluxe rooms to spacious suites. With a total of 154 rooms, the hotel caters to all lifestyles, including business travellers visiting nearby industrial estates. For those seeking a venue near Bangkok for meetings, corporate events, or romantic weddings with stunning views of the Bangsaen sea, Amari Bangsaen offers 15 medium to large function rooms that can host up to 1,000 guests.

Yuthachai Charanachit, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of ONYX Hospitality Group, said, “Amari Bangsaen is another remarkable addition to the Amari brand, positioned as an upper-upscale hotel offering full-service hospitality. The hotel is situated in a high-potential location with steady economic growth, particularly in the tourism sector. One key reason for adding this property is its highly convenient location—just a short drive from Bangkok, close to Pattaya, and near popular destinations in Chonburi province. It’s intended to meet the diverse needs of today’s travelers, whether they’re here for leisure, business, or large-scale events.”

In addition to its contemporary and thoughtfully designed rooms, Amari Bangsaen offers a variety of dining options crafted to delight every palate. At the heart of the culinary experience is Amaya Food Gallery, an all-day dining restaurant that features a harmonious blend of Asian and Western flavors. Guests can enjoy a delicious buffet breakfast, à la carte selections, or set menus for lunch and dinner—perfect for food lovers eager to explore Thai and international cuisine. Guests can also indulge in a signature Thai cocktail, thoughtfully crafted to reflect the charm of Thai hospitality, at Maitree Bar. For a more laid-back vibe, head to Aqua Eatery & Bar, the perfect spot to unwind by the large swimming pool with refreshing drinks, tasty snacks, and a daily Happy Hour promotion. Craving a seaside setting? Aloha Beach Cafe offers it all—great atmosphere, delicious food, and creative cocktails.

Guests can also unwind and rejuvenate at Breeze Spa, where a variety of spa treatments are designed to relax the body, ease fatigue, and leave guests feeling refreshed, ready to embrace new and memorable experiences. For guests looking to enhance their physical fitness, the “FIT Centre” offers a comprehensive workout experience featuring professional-grade equipment and weight training facilities tailored to meet diverse fitness goals. Meanwhile, little ones can dive into a world of imagination at the Kids’ Club, a cheerful space designed for children to unleash their energy freely and enjoy endless fun.

Amari Bangsaen is now ready to provide a welcoming and enjoyable accommodation experience, making every stay a memorable moment for every traveler. For more information or to make a reservation, please call 038-399200 or visit www.amari.com/bangsaen.

Thai-Filipino Transgender Clash in Bangkok Under Investigation

By

Khaosod English

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13 June 2025, 18:03

lumpini 06-2025-1 — Bangkok's Lumpini Police step up enforcement operations targeting women and transgender individuals in the area.

BANGKOK — Lumpini Police patrol officers are investigating an incident involving Thai and Filipino transgender individuals fighting on Sukhumvit Soi 11.

Over the past month, authorities have inspected and pursued legal action against 89 violators, both Thai and foreign nationals.

Lumpini Police Station and patrol units conducted on-site investigations following news reports of a conflict between Thai and Filipino transgender individuals in Sukhumvit Soi 11 area, which resulted in physical assault. A transgender individual using the account “Naeya Umar” recounted the conflict and physical violence that occurred.

lumpini 06 2025 3 — Screenshots from a viral video show Thai and Filipino transgender individuals fighting on Sukhumvit Soi 11, Bangkok on June 10, 2025.

Initial investigations confirmed the incident took place around 1:00 a.m. on June 10. Witnesses verified the event occurred but could not identify specific individuals involved in the assault. Authorities found no formal complaints filed through the 191 hotline or walk-in reports to investigators.

Lumpini Police will continue investigations while intensifying crackdowns and arrests of women and transgender individuals, both Thai and foreign, who infiltrate the area to commit various offenses.

Arrest Statistics (May 1 – June 13):
Total arrests: 159 individuals
Women: 70 cases
Transgender individuals: 89 cases
By nationality: Thai (69), Vietnamese (50), Tanzanian (15), Uzbek (11), Kenyan (14)

All cases have been processed through legal channels with high-level comparative penalties and criminal records established for Immigration Police watchlist coordination.

lumpini 06 2025 2 — Bangkok’s Lumpini Police step up enforcement operations targeting women and transgender individuals in the area.

Additional charges include:
– 7 Tanzanian women for illegal entry and overstaying
– 1 case of nighttime theft involving 3 suspects (2 Thai transgender individuals, 1 Thai woman)
– Lumpini Police continues coordinating with multiple agencies including Immigration Police, Metropolitan Police Bureau, and Bangkok Metropolitan Administration to address issues involving Thai and foreign women and transgender individuals operating in tourist areas, including conflicts that escalate to crimes against life, body, sexuality, and property.

“The goal is to maintain safety and security in tourist areas, building confidence among visitors. Lumpini, part of Pathum Wan District, has numerous nightlife entertainment venues, which explains the high frequency of such incidents.

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Bravo BKK Launches Huai Khwang Night Walking Street as Economic Stimulus

By

Contributor

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13 June 2025, 17:58

Bravo BKK collaborates with local entrepreneurs and communities to bring vibrant energy to the heart of the city with the Huai Khwang Night Walking Street @Bravo BKK, a lively event aimed at boosting the local economy. The event runs from June 6 to 22, 2025, at Bravo BKK Rama 9, close to RCA.

At the opening ceremony of Huai Khwang Night Walking Street @Bravo BKK on Friday, June 6, 2025, Bravo BKK was honored to welcome Mr. Sombat Kruakeeratitham, Director of Huai Khwang District (4th from left), who graciously served as the chairman of the ceremony. He was joined by a distinguished group of honorable guests, including: Makkasan Metropolitan Police Station’s superintendent Pol. Col. Urumporn Koondejsumrit (3rd from left); Mr. Watcharavee Theeradejchote, Director of Wat Uthai Tharam School (2nd from left); Ms. Arisara Wanguthai Na Lumpang, Executive Advisor Government Relations & CSR of Bravo BKK Co., Ltd. (4th from right); Mr. Kasinphot Sathirawasit, Head of Corporate Communications Department 1, Expressway Authority of Thailand (3rd from right); Mr. Wangchan Yimvilai, President of Lat Krabang Sports Association and 1st Vice President of the Saphan Sung Volunteer Development Club (far left); Mr. Rattanapat Phongsabut, Representative of the event organizer, T-One Organize Co., Ltd. (2nd from right); and Mr. Suchart Kamphapong, Head of Community Development and Social Welfare (far right); along with local entrepreneurs, community representatives, and a large turnout of local residents.

Mr. Sombat Kruakeeratitham, Director of Huai Khwang District, shared his thoughts on the event, stating: “The Huai Khwang Night Walking Street @Bravo BKK event is a collaboration between Bravo BKK, local entrepreneurs, and the community, aimed at stimulating the local economy. This event serves as a platform for community members to showcase and sell their products, including OTOP items, to the fullest extent. It also opens up opportunities for people in the community—whether seniors, youth, or students—to express their talents on stage. Most importantly, it helps foster stronger bonds between local entrepreneurs and residents in the Huai Khwang neighborhood.”

Ms. Arisara Wanguthai Na Lumpang, Executive Advisor Government Relations & CSR of Bravo BKK Co., Ltd., expressed her views on the event, saying: “Bravo BKK is very pleased to join hands with entrepreneurs and local communities in bringing joy, entertainment, and economic stimulation to the area. By utilizing space at Bravo BKK, this event also aligns with the government’s economic stimulus policy.”

Visitors are invited to experience joy and entertainment at the Huai Khwang Night Walking Street @Bravo BKK, taking place from June 6 to 22, 2025, at Bravo BKK Rama 9. The event opens until midnight and features a vibrant marketplace with a wide variety of products and delicious food, alongside live performances by popular Luk Thung artists such as Lamyai Haithongkham, Ann Oradee, Meaw Aphisit, Monkan Kankoon, Denchai Wongsamart, and Buaphan Kangso. To further stimulate spending, free cash coupons will be distributed to attendees daily. To ensure convenient access for visitors, Bravo BKK is pleased to provide a free shuttle between MRT Rama 9 and Bravo BKK every day from 12:00 hrs. to 24 hrs., to facilitate the visitors to reach the Bravo BKK. For more information, please add Line Official @bravobkk or visit website www.bravobkk.co.th.

Father’s Legacy: Contract Farming for Sustainable Livelihoods

By

MC Marketing

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13 June 2025, 17:50

Have you ever wondered how today’s farming profession has evolved from what we used to know? Let us share an inspiring story from the Nakhonthaisong family in Nakhon Ratchasima province, where pig farming has transformed into a family legacy, passed down from generation to generation — creating stability and pride for the entire family.

From Father Somjit to Son Denchai… a Legacy of Unending Success

Back in 1999, Mr. Somjit and Mrs. Nuphen Nakhonthaisong began raising fattening pigs under a partnership with CP Foods. Starting out on leased land, the couple demonstrated exceptional vision — at a time when modern pig farming was not yet common. Most families kept a few pigs in backyard pens for home consumption or small-scale sale.

Mr. Somjit, however, saw opportunity in CP Foods’ innovative farming model. He learned about new technologies and practices, recognizing that pork would always remain a staple food with steady demand. With CP Foods’ support, he became the first smallholder farmer in Tubsawai subdistrict, Huai Thalaeng district, to join the Contract Farming program for pig farming. His son Denchai became a key partner in this journey.

From a small open farm with just 400 pigs, the family continuously improved their operations with CP Foods’ technological and academic guidance. The turning point came when they upgraded to a modern closed-farm system, significantly increasing stability and income — and laying the foundation for what would become a true family legacy.

Denchai Nakhonthaisong: A New-Generation Farmer Building on His Father’s Success

Today, Denchai Nakhonthaisong, aged 47, represents the new generation carrying forward the family business. Although he trained in electrical engineering and initially worked for a hard disk manufacturer, Denchai ultimately chose to expand the farming venture he had built with his father.

“I realized that factory work offered little future security. Looking at my father, who supported our family through pig farming, I decided to build my own farm on our land and expanded to 650 pigs,” Denchai shared.

His keys to success? A combination of high-quality farming outcomes under CP Foods’ standards, and diversification through an integrated agriculture model. Denchai has transformed unused farm space into chemical-free crop fields, using pig manure fertilizer — generating an additional THB 360,000 annually. His model farm now attracts visits from both public and private sector groups, and has earned GAP certification for mulberry cultivation and silkworm farming — another family side business originally started by his mother.

Further innovations include installing 10kW solar panels, cutting electricity costs by 30-40%, and sharing farm-produced liquid fertilizer with neighboring farmers to promote community sustainability.

“This profession connects to many others. Pig farming provides fertilizer for our sugarcane fields and mulberry for silkworms — a true cycle of self-reliant farming,” Denchai explained.

Contract Farming: A Sustainable Career and Legacy

What gives the Nakhonthaisong family confidence in their path? The stability provided by CP Foods’ Contract Farming system. “We trust CP Foods. They won’t abandon us. We produce food, not luxury items — people eat every day,” said Denchai.

Under this model, farmers enjoy reliable income with lower risk, professional veterinary support, and ongoing innovation in disease prevention. Modern housing systems ensure a comfortable working environment — no longer exposed to outdoor heat as in traditional farming.

The Nakhonthaisong family proves that Contract Farming is not just agriculture — it’s a pathway to a better life, a sustainable income, and above all, a legacy of value that can be passed on with pride.

Today, at 72, Mr. Somjit still helps care for the pigs he loves. Through pig farming, he supported both his children’s education — one son now securely runs the family farm, while the other holds a Master’s degree and serves in government.

Now, Denchai is preparing to pass on the legacy — sharing knowledge and passion for farming with his own children, just as his father once did for him.

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Seat 11A: Thai Actor’s Chilling Link to Air India Lone Survivor

By

Khaosod English

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13 June 2025, 13:23

James Ruangsak1 — Thai newspaper front pages published on December 12, 1998, reporting on James Ruangsak's rescue after surviving the December 11, 1998 plane crash in a rubber plantation, Surat Thani province.

BANGKOK — Thai actor James Ruangsak expressed shock after learning that the sole survivor of the Air India crash sat in the same seat number he occupied during his own plane crash survival 27 years ago.

James Ruangsak Loychusak posted on social media after seeing news of the lone survivor from among 242 people aboard the Air India flight that crashed in Ahmedabad, Gujarat state, saying “Goosebumps. He sat in the same seat number as me – 11A.”

Ruangsak survived the Thai Airways Airbus A310-300 crash that went down in a rubber plantation in Surat Thani province on Friday, December 11, 1998. The crash killed 101 people and injured 45 others, with James seated in seat 11A.

Beyond expressing his surprise at the coincidence, he also posted messages of condolence for those who died and lost loved ones in the Air India tragedy.

lone survivor — Indian Home Minister Amit Shah visited the only survivor of the Air India plane crash at a hospital in Ahmedabad on Thursday. Shah also met others who were injured in the crash. (AP Video: Ajit Solanki and Hanif Sindhi)

The Air India crash survivor, identified by the Associated Press as British-Indian national Vishwashkumar Ramesh, was thrown from the plane and walked to a nearby ambulance for help. Dr. Dhaval Gameti, who treated Ramesh, told the AP that the survivor was disoriented with multiple injuries but appeared to be out of danger.

Social media users have been commenting on the extraordinary nature of a single person surviving such a crash, calling it unreal, remarkable, divine intervention, and miraculous.

The AP reported that the rarity of sole survivors from major aviation disasters has sparked widespread interest online about how such survivals occur and whether similar cases have happened before.

AP25163472573166 — The debris of an airplane lie scattered after it crashed in India’s northwestern city of Ahmedabad in Gujarat state, Thursday, June 12, 2025. (AP Photo/Ajit Solanki)

In recent decades, several other people have been the lone survivors of plane crashes. At least three other people have been “sole survivors” of plane crashes.

George Lamson Jr., then a 17-year-old from Plymouth, Minnesota, was on a Galaxy Airlines flight that crashed in Reno in 1985.

Lamson in a social media post Thursday said the news of a plane crash in India with only one survivor shook him.

“There are no right words for moments like this, but I wanted to acknowledge it,” he said. “These events don’t just make headlines. They leave a lasting echo in the lives of those who’ve lived through something similar.”

Bahia Bakari, then 12, lived through a Yemenia Airways flight that crashed near the Comoro Islands in 2009.

Jim Polehinke was the co-pilot and sole survivor of a 2006 Comair flight that crashed in Lexington, Kentucky.

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World Pianist Lang Lang’s Triumphant Bangkok Debut Wins Hearts

By

MC Marketing

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13 June 2025, 13:00

Royal Bangkok Symphony Orchestra Foundation and B.Grimm, presented a monumental event for classical music enthusiasts, Lang Lang’s debut piano recital in Bangkok on May 31, 2025, at the Thailand Cultural Centre was sold out and received with rousing applause. This performance marked the first time the world-renowned pianist graced a Thai stage, captivating a full-house audience with his masterful artistry. The concert hall was filled not only with devoted classical music fans but also with an impressive number of Thai pianists across generations—from young music students to university-level musicians and professional performers. It was, undeniably, a rare and inspiring night for Thailand’s piano community.

Lang Lang, celebrated for his expressive style and technical precision, delivered a program that showcased both his versatility and deep emotional connection to the music. The recital featured a thoughtfully curated selection of works by iconic composers. Before the interval, the program included Gabriel Fauré’s Pavane, known for its elegance, and Robert Schumann’s Kreisleriana, a dramatic and emotionally charged composition that reflects Schumann’s complex inner world.

After the break, Lang Lang performed a selection of Frédéric Chopin’s Mazurkas and Polonaise—pieces that highlight Chopin’s Polish heritage and romantic expressiveness.

The evening was not only a display of virtuosic technique but also a deeply moving experience that resonated with the audience. The thunderous applause echoed through the hall, with waves of clapping and cheers rolling like a storm after each piece. As a fitting conclusion to the night, Lang Lang offered not one, but three encore pieces—an exceptional gesture that thrilled concertgoers. The encores included Schumann’s No.12 “Chopin” from Carnaval, a lyrical interpretation of the Chinese folk tune Jasmine Flower (arranged by Schindler), and de Falla’s fiery and exhilarating Ritual Fire Dance. Each piece was met with admiration, with many in the audience commenting on the beauty and intimacy of the encores.

Following the performance, a long queue of attendees formed for a rare opportunity to meet the maestro in person during a photo session. Guests waiting in line were treated to a thoughtful reception with refreshments, making the entire experience even more memorable and warm.

Lang Lang’s recital in Bangkok was more than just a concert—it was a landmark cultural moment. As one of the most influential classical pianists of our time, his presence in Thailand represents a significant milestone in the country’s growing appreciation of classical music. The event delighted long-time fans—some of whom had travelled internationally to attend—and introduced younger generations to the beauty and depth of classical piano.

For those fortunate enough to be in the audience, it was an unforgettable experience. One can only hope that Lang Lang’s return to the Thai stage is not far off. With the door now open, there are many exciting possibilities for future collaborations between the Royal Bangkok Symphony Orchestra and this global icon.

Israeli Strikes Kill Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Leader, Gen. Hossein Salami

By

Associated Press

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13 June 2025, 12:49

TEl AVIV, Israel (AP) — Iranian state television confirmed the head of the paramilitary Revolutionary Guard was killed in Israel’s strikes Friday morning.

Gen. Hossein Salami was the chief of one of the country’s most powerful centers, and his death was a tough blow to Iran’s embattled leadership, which has had a series of setbacks in the past 20 months of Middle Eastern war and unrest.

Salami rose to power six years ago and had a history of threatening the U.S. and Israel.

Here’s a closer look.

Powerful arsenal of missiles

Iran’s Revolutionary Guard was created after its 1979 Islamic Revolution. Since it was established, it’s evolved from a paramilitary, domestic security force to a transnational force that has come to the aid of Tehran’s allies in the Mideast, from Syria and Lebanon to Iraq.

It operates in parallel to the country’s existing armed forces and controls Iran’s arsenal of ballistic missiles, which it has used to attack Israel twice during the Israel-Hamas war in the Gaza Strip.

AP25164115358441 — This satellite image provided by Maxar Technologies shows the Natanz nuclear facility in Iran on Jan. 24, 2025. (Maxar Technologies via AP)

Salami, 65, was appointed as head of the guard in 2019 by the country’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

The appointment followed U.S. President Donald Trump’s decision during his first term to withdraw the U.S. from the international nuclear deal with Iran and restore crippling sanctions. It also followed Trump’s designation of the Guard as a terrorist organization.

Salami joined the guard at the outbreak of the bloody 1980s Iran-Iraq war. He later rose to head its air forces and was serving as a deputy commander in the guard when he was appointed.

Harsh rhetoric

Like other guard leaders, Salami routinely delivered speeches with harsh rhetoric towards Israel. In a 2016 speech he said there was “fertile ground” for the “annihilation, the wiping out, and the collapse of the Zionist regime”.

He also threatened the United States.

After the U.S. killed the powerful head of the guard’s Quds Force, Qassem Soleimani, in a drone strike outside Baghdad’s airport in 2020, Salami threatened to retaliate against American and Israeli commanders. The Quds, or Jerusalem, Force is an elite wing of the Guard that oversees foreign operations.

AP25164082336163 — A firefighter calls out his colleagues at the scene of an explosion in a residence compound in northern Tehran, Iran, Friday, June 13, 2025. (AP Photo/Vahid Salemi)

Five days later, Iran launched ballistic missiles at two bases in Iraq housing American troops, causing injuries but no fatalities among soldiers there.

After Soleimani was killed, Salami said that both the U.S. and Israel should know that “if they threaten our commanders, none of their commanders will find a safe place” to live.

Emerging from the shadow war

Israel and Iran have run a shadow war for years, but last year the two attacked each other directly.

When an Israeli strike killed seven guard members, including two Iranian generals at an Iranian diplomatic compound in Syria, Salami vowed to retaliate.

Weeks later, Salami ordered an operation that launched more than 300 drones, ballistic missiles and cruise missiles in an unprecedented revenge mission that pushed the Middle East closer to a regionwide war.

Israel said that 99% were intercepted with several ballistic missiles reaching Israeli territory, causing minor damage to an air base.

In October Israel pounded Iran with a series of airstrikes in response to missile attacks into Israel from Iran earlier in the month.

Israel’s military said it targeted “missile manufacturing facilities used to produce the missiles that Iran fired at the state of Israel over the last year.” Israel also weakened the country’s air defenses, which helped clear the way for Friday’s attacks.

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Israel Attacks Iran’s Capital with Explosions Booming Across Tehran

By

Associated Press

-

13 June 2025, 09:15

APTOPIX Iran Mideast Wars — Smoke rises up after an explosion in Tehran, Iran, Friday, June 13, 2025. (AP Photo/Vahid Salemi)

JERUSALEM (AP) — JERUSALEM (AP) — Israel attacked Iran’s capital early Friday, with explosions booming across Tehran as Israel said it targeted nuclear and military sites.

Iranian state television says the head of Iran’s paramilitary Revolutionary Guard is feared dead after an Israeli attack.

The report offered few other details about what happened to Gen. Hossein Salami of the Guard.

The report on air added that one other top Guard officials, as well as two nuclear scientists were also feared dead.

State television also reported the attack set the headquarters of Iran’s paramilitary Revolutionary Guard ablaze.

Multiple sites in the capital had been hit in the attack, which Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said targeted both nuclear and military sites and officials leading Iran’s nuclear program and its ballistic missile arsenal.

The attack comes as tensions have reached new heights over Tehran’s rapidly advancing nuclear program. The Board of Governors at the International Atomic Energy Agency for the first time in 20 years on Thursday censured Iran over it not working with its inspectors. Iran immediately announced it would establish a third enrichment site in the country and swap out some centrifuges for more-advanced ones.

Israel for years has warned it will not allow Iran to build a nuclear weapon, something Tehran insists it doesn’t want — though official there have repeatedly warned it could build them. The U.S. has been preparing for something to happen, already pulling some diplomats from Iraq’s capital and offering voluntary evacuations for the families of U.S. troops in the wider Middle East.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in an address on YouTube that the attacks will continue “for as many days at it takes to remove this threat.”

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Israel took “unilateral action against Iran” and that Israel advised the U.S. that it believed the strikes were necessary for its self-defense.

“We are not involved in strikes against Iran and our top priority is protecting American forces in the region,” Rubio said in a statement released by the White House.

Rubio also issued a warning to Iran that it should not target U.S. interests or personnel.

People in Tehran awoke to the sound of the blast. State television acknowledged the blast.

It wasn’t immediately clear what had been hit, though smoke could be rising from Chitgar, a neighborhood in western Tehran. There are no known nuclear sites in that area — but it wasn’t immediately clear if anything was happening in the rest of the country.

An Israeli military official says that his country targeted Iranian nuclear sites, without identifying them.

The official spoke to journalists on condition of anonymity to discuss the ongoing operation, which is also targeting military sites.

Benchmark Brent crude spiked on the attack, rising nearly 5% on the news.

Israel’s Defense Minister Israel Katz said that his country carried out the attack, without saying what it targeted.

“In the wake of the state of Israel’s preventive attack against Iran, missile and drone attacks against Israel and its civilian population are expected immediately,” he said in a statement.

The statement added that Katz “signed a special order declaring an emergency situation in the home front.”

“It is essential to listen to instructions from the home front command and authorities to stay in protected areas,” it said

Both Iran and Israel closed their airspace.

As the explosions in Tehran started, President Donald Trump was on the lawn of the White House mingling with members of Congress. It was unclear if he had been informed but the president continued shaking hands and posing for pictures for several minutes.

Trump earlier said he was urging Netanyahu to hold off from taking action for the time being while the administration negotiated with Iran.

“As long as I think there is a (chance for an) agreement, I don’t want them going in because I think it would blow it,” Trump told reporters.

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