UNESCO, SACIT, and ICONCRAFT Celebrate Thai Artisans with SIRIVANNAVARI Collaboration

By

-

20 June 2025, 17:14

UNESCO and Sustainable Arts and Crafts Institute of Thailand (Public Organization), a national agency promoting Thai craftsmanship, have joined hands with ICONCRAFT—Thailand’s hub of creative innovation–to launch the campaign, “UNESCO x SACIT x ICONCRAFT: A Celebration of Thai Artisans and Creative Cities.”

This nationwide initiative celebrates the cultural legacy of Thai textile traditions from the seven UNESCO Creative Cities across Thailand. These heritage textiles, crafted by national master artisans, are reimagined into contemporary fashion pieces by seven of Thailand’s top design houses, as well as the prestigious brand SIRIVANNAVARI, founded by Her Royal Highness Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana Rajakanya.

The event, attended by UNESCO Director – General Audrey Azoulay, on her first official visit to Thailand, launches a long-term collaboration to empower cultural entrepreneurs, promote sustainable innovation, and inspire youth to pursue careers in the creative economy. It also reinforces Thailand’s commitment to the UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN), which includes more than 350 cities worldwide. Thailand’s recognized Creative Cities–Phuket, Chiang Mai, Bangkok, Sukhothai, Phetchaburi, Chiang Rai, and Suphanburi–serve as the foundation for this initiative and their distinctive cultural assets inspire the designs on display.

Event Highlights

At the heart of this exhibition is a collaboration between seven top-tier Thai fashion brands and local artisan groups, with each designer creating two exclusive outfits inspired by a different Creative City—14 looks in total:

ATELIER PICHITA – Designs inspired by the Tai Lue textiles of the Tai Lue Weaving Group by Master Dokkaew from Chiang Rai
THEATRE – Designs using Black Tai (Thai Song Dam) textiles from Ban Don Manow Thai Song Dam Weaving Group in Suphanburi
CHAI GOLD LABEL – Designs drawing from Northern-style batik by Rak Batik Group in Chiang Mai
HOOK’S BY PRAPAKAS – Designs based on hand-painted batik from Ying Batik Paint Group in Phuket
WISHARAWISH – Designs using the intricately patterned Pha Lai Yang fabric by Phusa Pha Lai Yang in Phetchaburi
PYVET – Designs crafted from Porcupine Pattern Pha Jok by Suntaree Thai Textile in Sukhothai
JANESUDA – Designs showcasing brightly colored batik from Marionsiam in Bangkok

SIRIVANNAVARI x Chansoma Collaboration

Among the standout creations are two exclusive clutch bags, personally designed by Her Royal Highness Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana Rajakanya. Crafted from Kaew Ching Duang silk–a textile symbolizing prosperity and harmony–these pieces were handwoven by nationally honoured master artisan Weeratham Taragoonngernthai, founder of the Chansoma brand in Surin Province. Embroidered with exquisite detail, each clutch is a one-of-a-kind creation, specially designed for this occasion.

Royal Ensemble Exhibition

Another event highlight is the first-ever public exhibition in Thailand of eight Royal Thai Ensembles worn by Her Royal Highness Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana Rajakanya, curated by the Queen Sirikit Museum of Textiles. The designs, by Tirapan Wannarat, founder of the Tirapan fashion house and Thailand’s 2019 National Artist in Visual Arts (Fashion Design), will be on display from June 25–29 at ICONLUXE AVENUE, M Floor, ICONSIAM.

Featured ensembles include:

Thai Ruean Ton Dress – Crafted from brocade silk with Chao Fa motifs, inspired by traditional teakwood houses in Dusit Palace
Thai Chitralada Dress – A formal silk outfit with standing collar and embroidered white floral patterns
Thai Amarin Dress – A pink silk pha sin featuring golden rose vines, historically associated with the birthday of King Rama V

Event Schedule

The special collection will debut at Crafts Bangkok 2025, from 18–22 June 2025 at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center, before its formal launch on 25 June at ICONSIAM.

Alongside the textile showcase and royal attire exhibition, visitors will have the rare opportunity to purchase or bid on selected pieces. A special auction will include the limited-edition silk clutches by SIRIVANNAVARI. Proceeds will support a UNESCO initiative to expand access to creative education for young people in Thailand’s Creative Cities.

Don’t miss this chance to celebrate Thai cultural heritage, admire the craftsmanship of local masters, and witness how creativity continues to shape Thailand’s future.

#ICONCRAFT #ICONCRAFTatICONSIAM #ICONSIAM #SIAMPIWAT #SACIT #UNESCO

Nestlé Legal Dispute Transferred to Specialized IP Court

By

Khaosod English

-

20 June 2025, 16:59

BANGKOK — The President of the Court of Appeal for Specialized Cases has ordered the transfer of a legal dispute involving Nestlé and the Mahagitsiri family from Minburi Civil Court to the Central Intellectual Property and International Trade Court (IPIT Court), according to a ruling read on June 20, 2025.

The case, numbered Black Case No. Phor 571/2568, was moved following Nestlé’s petition to determine proper jurisdiction between the two courts. The transfer suggests the dispute involves intellectual property or trade-related matters, though specific details of the legal conflict were not disclosed.

Despite the ongoing litigation, Nestlé emphasized that its Nescafé operations in Thailand remain unaffected. The multinational food and beverage company confirmed it continues all business activities including manufacturing, toll-manufacturing, importing, and distribution of Nescafé products across the country.

IPIT Court — The Central Intellectual Property and International Trade Court

“Nescafé products are now available with the same great taste and high quality,” the company stated, seeking to reassure consumers about product availability and standards.
Nestlé also reaffirmed its long-term commitment to the Thai market, highlighting plans to continue local coffee bean procurement from Thai farmers – a practice maintained over several years.

The company indicated it will sustain investments in Thailand to benefit various stakeholders including customers, consumers, employees, farmers, and business partners.

The case transfer to the specialized IP court indicates the dispute likely involves trademark, patent, or other intellectual property issues, though the company has not disclosed the nature of its disagreement with the Mahagitsiri family.

Nestlé’s emphasis on business continuity suggests the company is working to minimize any potential market disruption while the legal proceedings unfold in the appropriate specialized jurisdiction.

_________________

Prevous reports:

B.Grimm Partners with Sasin for Leadership Training Program

By

MC Marketing

-

20 June 2025, 16:31

B.Grimm Power Public Company Limited have joined forces with Sasin School of Management, Chulalongkorn University, to launch the B.Grimm Executive Partnership Program—an advanced leadership development initiative for senior executives navigating the complexities of the digital era and driving social impact.

Rooted in the company’s long-standing vision of “Doing Business with Compassion,” the program integrates cutting-edge business strategy, digital and AI transformation, organizational leadership, and social engagement, including B.Grimm’s ongoing support for the Royal Bangkok Symphony Orchestra (RBSO).

Dr. Harald Link, Group President of B.Grimm Power Public Company Limited, shared in his opening remarks: “True leadership is about passing forward what is good to the next generation—not just managing success in the present.”

The initiative is one of the four flagship learning programs hosted by the B.Grimm Excellence Centre, which include:

1.B.Grimm Business Pioneer Program – for young business talents (in partnership with Chulalongkorn Business School)

2.B.Grimm Business Professional Program – for mid-level professionals

3.B.Grimm Positive Leadership Program – emphasizing compassionate leadership (in partnership with NIDA)

4.B.Grimm Executive Partnership Program – for senior executives (in partnership with Sasin)

Mr. Kriangkrai Yooyeun, Executive Vice President – People Partnership, remarked: “At B.Grimm, we believe that people development is the true engine of sustainable growth. Compassion, innovation, and shared prosperity are at the heart of how we lead—today and into the future.”

All Seven Members of K-Pop Group BTS Returns From Military Service

By

Associated Press

-

20 June 2025, 15:39

Music BTS Things to Know — FILE - K-pop band BTS's member Jin salutes after being discharged from a mandatory military service outside of an army base in Yeoncheon, South Korea, Wednesday, June 12, 2024. (Im Byung-shik/Yonhap via AP, File)

SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — It’s official. All seven members of the massively popular K-pop group BTS have completed South Korea’s mandatory military service.

Rapper Suga was the last of the bandmates to be released Wednesday from his duties as a social service agent, an alternative to serving in the military that he reportedly chose due to a shoulder injury.

This marks the official return of all seven members from their enlistment duties.

The six others, RM, V, Jimin, Jung Kook, Jin and j-hope, served in the army.

Earlier this month, four members of BTS — RM, V, Jimin and Jung Kook — were discharged from South Korea’s mandatory military service.

AP25170002001029 — FILE – K-pop band BTS members RM, bottom, and V react after being discharged from a mandatory military service in Chuncheon, South Korea, Tuesday, June 10, 2025. (AP Photo/Ahn Young-joon, File)

Jin, the eldest BTS member, was discharged in June 2024 as was j-hope in October.

BTS is expected to reunite later this year. Ahead of that highly anticipated homecoming, here’s what you need to know about the group.

The rise of BTS

BTS — short for Bangtan Sonyeondan, or “Bulletproof Boy Scouts” in Korean — debuted in June 2013 under the company Big Hit Entertainment, now known as HYBE. The seven-member group consists of RM, Jin, Suga, j-hope, Jimin, V and Jung Kook.

The group launched in 2013 with the hip-hop heavy single album “2 Cool 4 Skool,” releasing three full-length projects before really gaining momentum with their 2016 album “Wings.”

Their global breakthrough came in 2017 when “DNA” entered the Billboard Hot 100, making BTS the first Korean boy band to achieve such a feat. The song’s success was followed by a performance at the American Music Awards, further fueling their international fan base.

The band is largely credited with bringing K-pop to the international stage, and with good reason.

AP25170002120501 — FILE – BTS arrives at the 64th Annual Grammy Awards at the MGM Grand Garden Arena on Sunday, April 3, 2022, in Las Vegas. (Photo by Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP, File)

Across their discography, BTS broke boundaries and records: In 2020, they released the five-time platinum “Dynamite,” their first all-English single, which debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 — a first for an all-South Korean musical act.

At the height of their popularity, BTS was not only the biggest K-pop group on the planet, but the biggest boy band overall.

Global appeal

In fact, they’ve been certified platinum many times over, according to The Recording Industry Association of America. Their platinum successes include:

— 2018’s “Mic Drop;”

— 2020’s “Map of the Soul: 7,” “Love Yourself: Answer,” and “Idol;”

— 2021’s “Be,” and song of the summer “Butter;”

— and high-profile collaborations “My Universe” with Coldplay and “Boy With Luv” featuring Halsey.

BTS has also been nominated for five Grammy Awards. Their first, for “Dynamite” in the best pop duo/group performance category, marked the first time a K-pop act received a Grammy nod.

As their global popularity grew, the septet also became international advocates for social justice.

Their 2018 address to the United Nations General Assembly launched the “Love Myself” campaign in partnership with UNICEF to combat violence, abuse and bullying while promoting self-esteem among young people.

AP25170002123614 — FILE – Members of the K-pop supergroup BTS from left, V, Jungkook, Jimin, RM, Jin, J-Hope, and Suga join White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre during the daily briefing at the White House, Tuesday, May 31, 2022, in Washington. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci, File)

The group’s commitment to human rights activism continued in 2020 when they donated $1 million to the Black Lives Matter movement, denouncing racial discrimination and violence. Their fan base, known the world over as ARMY, responded by matching the donation within 24 hours.

Their dual impact on music and social causes culminated in 2022 when they were invited to the White House to discuss anti-Asian hate crimes with President Joe Biden.

BTS’ mandatory military service stirs debate

In South Korea, all able-bodied men aged 18 to 28 are required by law to perform 18-21 months of military service under a conscription system meant to deter aggression from rival North Korea.

The law gives special exemptions to athletes, classical and traditional musicians, and ballet and other dancers if they have obtained top prizes in certain competitions and are assessed to have enhanced national prestige.

K-pop stars and other entertainers aren’t subject to such privileges.

However, in 2020, BTS postponed their service until age 30 after South Korea’s National Assembly revised its Military Service Act, allowing K-pop stars to delay their enlistment until age 30.

There was heated public debate in 2022 over whether to offer special exemptions of mandatory military service for BTS members, until the group’s management agency announced in October 2022 that all seven members would fulfill their duties.

AP25170001669009 — FILE – K-pop band BTS’s member J-Hope reacts after being discharged from a mandatory military service outside of an army base in Wonju, South Korea, Thursday, Oct. 17, 2024. (AP Photo/Ahn Young-joon, File)

Break allows time for solo projects

BTS tiered their enlistments, giving ample time for its members to focus on solo projects while the group was on a break.

Jin released two EPs, “Happy” in 2024 and “Echo” in May of this year. Suga dropped his debut solo album, “D-Day,” in 2023 under his moniker Agust D.

Also in 2024, RM released his second solo album, the elastic, experimental “Right Place, Wrong Person”, and j-hope released an EP, “Hope on the Street Vol. 1.” Earlier this year, j-hope embarked on his first solo tour.

Jimin released two projects, 2023’s “Face” and 2024’s “Muse.” V’s debut album, the smooth alt-R&B “Layover,” arrived in 2023, as did Jung Kook’s retro-pop debut, “Golden.”

___

Thailand Clarifies Cambodian Tourist Incident at Disputed Temples

By

Khaosod English

-

20 June 2025, 14:26

Cambodian tourists pose for a group photo before staging a symbolic demonstration at Ta Kwai Temple in Bak Dai subdistrict, Phanom Dong Rak district, Surin province on June 18, 2025.

BANGKOK — Thai military officials have clarified the circumstances surrounding a viral video showing approximately 30 Cambodian tourists singing and recording videos at the Ta Kwai Temple in Bak Dai subdistrict, Phanom Dong Rak district, Surin province.

The incident has sparked criticism amid rising nationalist tensions between the two countries following a brief military clash on March 28.

On June 20, Army spokesman Colonel Winthai Suwari explained that the Army received reports from Suranaree Command that the incident occurred on June 18 at approximately 1:00 p.m. The Cambodian tourist group was observed taking photographs, recording videos, and singing within the premises. Thai military personnel promptly intervened in a courteous and appropriate manner, engaging in diplomatic dialogue to foster mutual understanding.

“We explained that such symbolic expressions in the area were inconsistent with the guidelines and mutual agreements previously discussed by both sides. We requested cooperation to refrain from such behavior. The Cambodian tourist group showed understanding and voluntarily ceased their activities before departing the area, spending approximately 20 minutes at the site,” the Army spokesman said.

He added that the incident concluded peacefully, with discussions conducted in a positive atmosphere consistent with the cooperative framework upheld by both sides. In accordance with the bilateral agreement between Thailand and Cambodia, Ta Kwai Temple area permits the deployment of unarmed military personnel to facilitate services for civilians visiting the historical site.

Meanwhile, a video clip circulated showing an incident at Ta Muen Thom Temple in Phanom Dong Rak district, Surin province, on June 19 at approximately 10:00 a.m. A Cambodian man brought about 15 Buddhist monks and other Cambodians to block the entrance gate to the temple in a symbolic demonstration. They told Thai people they would not be allowed to enter or cross the GPS marker.

Ta Muen1 — Screenshot from a video clip showing an incident at Ta Muen Thom Temple in Phanom Dong Rak district, Surin province, on June 19, 2025.

This prompted Thai military personnel and administrative officials stationed at the location to immediately intervene and warn them to stop this action. Cambodian authorities also joined in issuing warnings, causing the group to immediately return to the Cambodian side.

Both Ta Kwai Temple and Ta Muen Thom Temple are part of four disputed areas that Cambodia has submitted to the International Court of Justice. The other two disputed sites are Ta Muen Tot Temple in Surin province and the Emerald Triangle area in Ubon Ratchathani province. Cambodia seeks a ruling that all four areas belong to Cambodia.

However, Thailand has declared it does not accept the ICJ’s jurisdiction. Technically, the court can only make rulings when Thailand first acknowledges the court’s jurisdiction, as these areas have never been subject to ICJ proceedings before.

___________

Thai Health Food Sector Grows 20% as Salad Brands Multiply

By

Khaosod English

-

19 June 2025, 17:57

BANGKOK — Thailand’s three leading salad brands; Ohkajhu, Salad Factory and Jones Salad, are expanding aggressively to capture a growing health-conscious consumer base. The healthy eating restaurant market is now worth 5.2 billion baht ($158.6 million), driven by increased consumer awareness and a wave of new entrants. The sector is expected to continue to grow by 15–20% annually.

Health Food Market Booming

Piya Dunkhum, CEO of Green Food Factory, the operator of Salad Factory, explained that Thailand’s health-orientated restaurant sector will grow by an average of 15–20% annually from 2026 to 2028. Two important factors are the increasing health awareness of consumers and the steady influx of new players into the market.

There are now more than 20 salad brands on the market, a significant increase from just five suppliers a decade ago. By the end of 2025, the market value is expected to reach 5.2 billion baht, an increase of 15–20% from 4.5 billion baht ($137.3 million) in 2024.

However, both short and long-term challenges remain. Economic uncertainty in the second half of 2025 could create headwinds, and over the next five years, market growth could slow due to a higher base and market saturation.

salad4 — Piya Dunkhum, CEO of Green Food Factory

Salad Factory Targets Provincial Expansion

To meet these challenges, Salad Factory is pushing ahead with the expansion of its branches in the provinces, especially in tourist areas. The company is investing 50 million baht to open 8–9 new locations by 2025. This includes a new branch in Gateway Ekamai, which will open on 12 June. Another 4–5 shops are planned to follow in Bangkok and neighbouring provinces such as Chonburi and Kanchanaburi.

The brand is also working to expand its customer base while retaining existing customers by offering high quality, affordable meals and constantly introducing new menu items to increase sales and repeat visits. Currently, the average customer returns 2–3 times per month and spends 200–300 baht ($6-9) per visit.

The brand focuses on three main customer groups:

Regular customers: including families, millennials and health-conscious people.
Urban dwellers: millennials and Gen Z with a fast-paced lifestyle and a focus on wellness.
Larger families: including parents and seniors looking for affordable, healthy options for all ages.

Ohkajhu Launches New Menus

Chalakorn Aekkayaphatthanakun, CEO of Plookpakporakrakmae PCL, which operates Ohkajhu, Oh! Juice and other F&B brands, said during a presentation at Opportunity Day that Q2 2025 was characterised by weaker consumer spending and tourism, as well as the impact of an earthquake that affected sales at 29 of Ohkajhu’s 41 shops. However, overall sales continue to grow, indicating strong market potential.

The company remains committed to growing Ohkajhu and its other brands, albeit more cautiously, by focusing on high-potential locations, both online and offline. It will also continue to introduce new menu items, both internally developed and through co-operations, to maintain footfall and attract new customers.

salad2 — Ohkajhu’s offering includes both traditional, health-orientated dishes and innovative, healthy meals.

Ohkajhu plans to invest 350–400 million baht ($10-12 million) to open six more shops by 2025, bringing the total number to 47. Meanwhile, Oh! Juice will open 12 new outlets this year (from 15 to 30), and the group’s new fried chicken chain, Joe Wings, will reach its target of six locations by the end of the year.

The new offering will include both traditional, health-orientated dishes and innovative, healthy meals that deviate from Ohkajhu’s typical style. The company expects these strategies to increase overall sales by 20–30%, with SSSG expected to be 2–5% despite the economic challenges.

Jones Salad Eyes Market Share

Another large health food chain, Jones Salad, currently operates 41 shops nationwide. In H1 2025, the brand continued its expansion, introducing a range of new menu items to cater for more eating occasions, such as high-protein wraps and healthy breakfast options. It also introduced functional drinks to boost the immune system and energy levels, appealing to customers looking for more variety.

salad3 — Jones Salad, currently operates 41 shops nationwide.

New products include a range of healthy smoothies with flavours such as ‘Salad Pun’ (a whole salad blended into a smoothie) and ‘Princess Glow’ (a tangy-sweet fruit smoothie with added Japanese collagen).

Jones Salad also reinforces its brand identity as a nutrition educator through its mascot “Uncle Jones” Jones Salad regularly creates educational content in the form of short videos (Reels, TikTok) and in-depth articles to build customer loyalty and brand awareness amidst increasing competition in the health food store market.

________

Hong Kong Robber Arrested in Bangkok with 14 Stolen Hermès Bags

By

Khaosod English

-

19 June 2025, 15:33

hongkong brandname arrest3 — Thai immigration police arrest a suspect in the robbery of luxury branded goods in Hong Kong worth nearly HK$3 million at Suvarnabhumi Airport after coordinating with Hong Kong police on June 18, 2025.

SUVARNABHUMI — Thai immigration authorities have successfully captured and extradited a Chinese national suspected of robbing a luxury goods store in Hong Kong, making off with 14 Hermès handbags and other high-end items valued at nearly HK$3 million (US$382,170).

A four-member Hong Kong police delegation, led by Chief Inspector LAM Pak-kiu from the Chief Inspector Investigation unit, arrived at Suvarnabhumi Airport to collect the suspect, identified as Su Kai, who was quickly apprehended by Thai immigration officials.

The suspect was returned to Hong Kong aboard Cathay Pacific flight CX654 on June 19 at 3:00 p.m., along with evidence from the robbery case, including luggage containing 14 Hermès handbags worth about HK$2 million (US$254,780) and two Van Cleef & Arpels bracelets with a value of HK$1 million (US$127,390).

Swift International Cooperation

Police Major General Cherngron Rimpadee, Commander of Immigration Bureau 2, revealed that after Hong Kong Special Administrative Region police investigations identified Su Kai as traveling to Thailand, orders were issued to intercept the suspect before 6:00 p.m. on June 18. The Chinese national had arrived on Thai Airways flight TG629, prompting an urgent search operation throughout the passenger terminal.

Police Lieutenant Colonel Kamonthip Khemnark led the operation team that successfully identified and detained Su Kai within the airport, along with over 20 pieces of evidence including the 14 Hermès bags, two Van Cleef & Arpels bracelets, and cash in various currencies. Immigration authorities subsequently denied his entry and handed him over to Hong Kong police the following day.

hongkong brandname arrest4 — Thai immigration police officers welcome Hong Kong police who arrived to collect the suspect in the luxury handbag and bracelet robbery case at Suvarnabhumi Airport, before returning to Hong Kong to proceed with legal action on June 19, 2025.

Major General Cherngron emphasized that this rapid apprehension demonstrates successful international cooperation in immigration law enforcement and transnational crime prevention. Since January 2025, Immigration Bureau 2 has denied entry to over 10,581 high-risk individuals and conducted in-depth screening interviews with more than 22,000 people.

Details of the Hong Kong Robbery

According to Hong Kong’s South China Morning Post, the robbery occurred when a heavyset suspect wearing a black hat and face mask entered a luxury goods shop in Hong Kong’s Tsim Sha Tsui district on Wednesday. The suspect initially inquired about purchasing a white Hermès handbag, claiming he would leave to withdraw cash and return to complete the purchase.

Around 12:10 p.m., the suspect returned and bought the bag but said he wanted to browse further. When a 49-year-old female shop assistant continued working and paid little attention to him, the suspect suddenly covered her face with a small towel, causing her to lose consciousness.

hongkong brandname arrest1 — Some of the 14 Hermès handbags found inside the suspect’s luggage at Suvarnabhumi Airport on June 18, 2025.

Upon regaining consciousness, the victim found herself tied up but managed to free herself using a cutter. She went downstairs to seek help from a delivery person, who assisted her in calling police. Hong Kong police confirmed that 14 handbags and Van Cleef & Arpels jewelry worth HK$2.96 million were stolen from the shop.

This incident follows another notorious luxury goods robbery in Hong Kong on November 30, 2024, when CCTV footage captured three men breaking into Xiaoma, a luxury goods resale store, while it was closed. In that five-minute heist, 66 Hermès handbags worth HK$10 million (US$1.3 million) were stolen.

___________

Thai PM Apologizes for Hun Sen Leak, Calls for National Unity

By

Khaosod English

-

19 June 2025, 14:03

paetong -19-06-2025-1 — Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra raises her hands in a traditional Thai greeting gesture as she apologizes to the Thai people for the leaked private conversation with Cambodian leader Hun Sen regarding negotiations to resolve cross-border checkpoint operations between the two countries, at Government House on June 19, 2025. (KHAOSOD Photo/Pattarayoot Phukpol)

BANGKOK — Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra apologized to the Thai people on June 19 for the leaked conversation with former Cambodian leader Hun Sen, calling it a “national security threat” that requires unity, while Army Chief General Pana Klaoplaodthuk called for Thai unity and reaffirmed the military’s commitment to democracy and national sovereignty.

During protests against her outside Government House, Prime Minister Shinawatra held a press conference with Deputy PM and Defense Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, Deputy Defense Minister General Nathapol Nakpanich, Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa, Supreme Commander General Songwit Noonpakdee, Army Commander General Pana Klaoplaodthuk, and military representatives regarding the Thai-Cambodia border situation following their meeting that lasted over an hour.

PM’s Apology

“First, I must apologize to all Thai people for the leaked audio clip during conversations with the Cambodian leader, which should not have happened. I apologize to the people for the disturbance caused,” the Prime Minister said.

paetong 19 06 2025 2 — Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra raises her hands in a traditional Thai greeting gesture as she apologizes to the Thai people for the leaked private conversation with Cambodian leader Hun Sen regarding negotiations to resolve cross-border checkpoint operations between the two countries, at Government House on June 19, 2025. (KHAOSOD Photo/Pattarayoot Phukpol)

She stated that she had spoken with the Second Army Region, which was mentioned in the audio clip, and explained that her comments were merely a communication technique for ongoing negotiations — showing understanding to discuss details further and stop the clashes.

The PM emphasized that her conversation reflected a genuine intention to achieve peace and that she was unaware there would be recording and broadcasting. “I’ve reached understanding with the military, who listened. Today we must cooperate to unite our forces,” she said.

Border Tensions

“Today everyone, all sectors, concluded this is a threat to national security — not a small threat where government and military need to fight each other. We don’t have time to quarrel among ourselves; we must protect our sovereignty. This is what we agree on, and the government is ready to support the military in every form — whatever support the military needs,” she said.

“In making decisions across various dimensions, we must consider Thai people living in Cambodia and border residents. We must think of them and provide confidence and safety to our people.”

cambodian ambassador — Piyapak Sricharoen, Director-General of the Department of East Asian Affairs (right), summons Cambodian Ambassador to Thailand Hun Saroeun, on June 19, 2025, to accept a formal protest letter regarding Cambodian former PM and Senate President Hun Sen exposing the private phone conversation with PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra.

No One in the World Does This

The Prime Minister said the Foreign Ministry emphasized peaceful procedures through bilateral processes and summoned the Cambodian Ambassador to Thailand to submit a protest letter expressing extreme disappointment with the Cambodian leadership’s actions.

“No one in the world does this — when leaders talk, whether from major countries with agreements and negotiations, if not told beforehand about recording or official talks, contact should go through foreign ministries via proper procedures to inform about recordings. But this was a recording from private mobile phone conversations, which is unacceptable worldwide,” she said.

“For what happened, I must apologize for truly not knowing about the recording. From now on, I will be more careful about conversations. From talking with the military, I’m confident that if we unite and stand together, we can overcome this strongly together,” she concluded without taking questions from the media.

Army Chief Calls for Unity

Earlier, General Pana Klaoplaodthuk, Army Chief, addressed concerns regarding the domestic situation and called upon the Thai people to maintain confidence in the Royal Thai Army’s steadfast commitment to constitutional monarchy and its readiness to execute its constitutional mandate of protecting national sovereignty through established legal frameworks and institutional mechanisms.

The Army Chief emphasized that the paramount imperative is for “Thai people to stand united” in collectively defending national sovereignty against those who harbor ill intentions toward the Kingdom, with national interests remaining the supreme priority.

Diplomatic Protest

Meanwhile, Piyapak Sricharoen, Director-General of the Department of East Asian Affairs, summoned Cambodian Ambassador to Thailand Hun Saroeun, who is the grandson of Hun Sen, to accept a formal protest letter regarding the private conversation clip.

“The Royal Thai Government is deeply disappointed that the private telephone conversation between the Thai Prime Minister and the senior figure from Cambodia was leaked to the media. Trust and respect between two leaders are fundamental to good neighborliness and conduct among states. Such actions contradict internationally accepted practices and will severely affect ongoing efforts for both sides to resolve the problem in good faith,” the letter stated.

__________

Australian-Thai Couple Arrested for Illegal Weapons Purchase

By

Khaosod English

-

19 June 2025, 00:47

aussie guns1 — Lt. Gen. Trairong Phiwphan, Commissioner of the Technology Crime Suppression Division, announces the results of the arrest of an Australian-Thai couple for illegally ordering and possessing weapons and military ordnance on June 18, 2025.

BANGKOK — Cyber police arrested an Australian man and a Thai woman for ordering gun silencers online; a large cache was found at a Udon Thani residence.

The Technology Crime Suppression Division launched an investigation after discovering someone was using an account called “Goodluck Airrow” on a popular online marketplace. The account, with over 1,500 followers, was posting images of silencers and other illegal equipment across 14 listings.

Investigators found that the seller avoided directly naming the equipment as gun-related accessories, instead using terms like “spare parts” to evade police detection.

They then conducted a test purchase of a gun silencer, which was listed in the app as an “Oil Filter 35mm Thread Connector.” The store actually delivered the item, prompting police to send the package for inspection by the Ordnance Division of the Royal Thai Police and the Munitions Control Division of the Department of Military Industry, Ministry of Defense.

Test results confirmed the item was military ordnance without proper authorization from the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defense to possess such silencer equipment.

aussie guns2 — Cyber Police arrest an Australian-Thai couple for illegally ordering and possessing weapons and military ordnance in Udon Thani, on June 18, 2025.

Police first arrested Mr. Surasit, 43, a kindergarten teacher at a school in Nakhon Sawan Province on March 28, before expanding the investigation to another buyer using the name “chase2023” who had ordered silencers from the store more than 11 times.

Lt. Gen. Trairong Phiwphan, Commissioner of the Technology Crime Suppression Division, said further investigation revealed another suspect who had ordered military equipment. Police obtained a search warrant from Udon Thani Provincial Court dated June 16 to search a residence in Moo 5, Tambon Khambong, Ban Phue District, Udon Thani Province, where Ms. Atitaya, 39, was living together with Mr. Adam, 37, an Australian national.

Officers seized evidence including 3 black long-barrel firearms, 3 black silencers, and 3,500 rounds of ammunition of unknown caliber.

Both suspects confessed to owning the gun silencers, admitting they had ordered them from the online store “Goodluck Airrow.”

Police charged both suspects with jointly possessing firearms without permission from the local registrar and possessing military ordnance without authorization from the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defense.

__________

Thai PM Faces Political Crisis After Audio Leak with Hun Sen

By

Khaosod English

-

18 June 2025, 21:12

BANGKOK — Thailand’s political landscape has intensified following the release of a private audio conversation between Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen on Wednesday. Opposition groups and anti-Thaksin factions have called for the female prime minister’s resignation or parliament dissolution, with some citing concerns about preventing a military coup.

Audio Leak Details

Former Cambodian Prime Minister and current Senate President Hun Sen confirmed on June 18 the authenticity of the 17-minute, 6-second audio clip on Wednesday. Initially, a 9.5-minute version was leaked, but Hun Sen subsequently released the entire conversation. The discussion included interpreter Mr. Kleang Huot, with Hun Sen claiming the recording was necessary for transparency and internal Cambodian use to avoid misunderstandings in official matters.

Hun Sen stated that “a few hours after the conversation, the Thai Prime Minister accused the Cambodian leader of engaging in ‘unprofessional’ politics and conducting political activities via Facebook, an action that contradicts her own words.”

paetong hunsen — Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra pays a courtesy visit to Hun Sen, President of the Senate and President of the Privy Council of the Kingdom of Cambodia in Phnom Penh on April 23, 2025. (Government House)

Controversial Statements

Opposition and anti-government groups have heavily criticized Paetongtarn’s remarks in the audio, including:

Referring to Hun Sen as “uncle”
Advising not to listen to Thailand’s Second Army Region commander, calling him someone who “opposes us and wants to look tough”
Telling Hun Sen to inform her of any requests so she could handle them
Asking for sympathy, saying she faces heavy attacks and has even been told to become Cambodia’s prime minister

Opposition leader Nattapong Ruangpanyawut called on PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra to dissolve parliament to show responsibility for the mishandling of Thai-Cambodia border conflict and to prevent a coup.

“If the Prime Minister cannot quickly restore the confidence and trust of the Thai people, I urge Ms Paetongtarn Shinawatra, the Prime Minister, to take political responsibility under the democratic system by dissolving parliament to return power to the people and to prevent certain groups from escalating Paetongtarn’s mistakes, leading to a situation that is not beneficial to our democracy,” he said.

Border Tensions Context

Overlooked content in the conversation included the Thai PM’s desire to restore calm before potential military clashes between the two sides (referring to the March 28 incident). She added that the new generation, like herself and Hun Manet, must ensure there is no war.

Hun Sen’s condition was for Thailand to lift all border checkpoint restrictions, after which Cambodia would return to normal operations. Paetongtarn responded that she would discuss this with the Ministry of Defence first.

No More Private Conversations

Prime Minister Paetongtarn confirmed the clip’s authenticity, calling it a private conversation and describing Cambodia’s move as an attempt to create division between her government and the military. She understood the clip’s release was intended to boost Hun Sen’s popularity and stated there would be no more private conversations between them. Regarding future trust between the two families, she expressed uncertainty.

Paetongtarn insisted there are no problems between the government and military, emphasizing that she always consults with military leadership before taking action.

Lt. Gen. Boonsin Padklang, Commander of the 2nd Army Region, receives a cash donation of 1,000,000 baht from Luang Pu Sutjai Phattapanyo, abbot of Sawansamakkee Thammavanaram Temple in Roi Et province, for the 2nd Army Region’s operations along the Thai-Cambodian border, at the Royal Thai Army Television station in Bangkok on June 18, 2025.

“I understand. There’s nothing.”

Various military Facebook pages, including those of the Royal Thai Army and the Civil Affairs Department, posted morale-boosting messages about military dignity and demonstrated strong stances on defending national sovereignty.

Second Army Region Commander Lt. Gen. Boonsin Padklang said Wednesday afternoon that PM Paetongtarn called to explain the situation, and he harbors no grievances against her, stating “I understand. There’s nothing.”

Coalition Crisis

The international political tension coincides with internal government strain amid ongoing cabinet reshuffle rumors. The Interior Ministry has been particularly contentious, with reports that the Pheu Thai Party wants to reclaim it from the Bhumjaithai Party. Deputy PM Anutin Charnvirakul has refused, declaring readiness to become opposition and recently removing his belongings from the Interior Ministry.

anutin leaving interior — Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul speaks to the media at his desk in the Interior Ministry on his final day in office, after announcing his party’s withdrawal from the government over the refusal to reassign this ministerial post, on June 18, 2025.

In his final interview as Interior Minister, Anutin said he had worked there for nearly two years with solidarity and policy implementation, with no gaps between permanent and political staff. He considered his responsibilities concluded and would resume his MP duties after leaving office.

As opposition party, Bhumjaithai will oppose the Entertainment Bill and not support the 2026 budget.

Anutin’s Stance on Audio Leak

When asked about the leaked audio, Anutin said that Bhumjaithai Party members were not particularly pleased, but he maintained that he still has a good relationship with the Prime Minister. He described this as a difficult time for her — not a moment for criticism or negativity.

“Right now, nothing sounds good when asked. In turbulent situations, we need time to regain composure and resolve issues. Don’t rush to get emotional or try to fix things hastily, because the more you fix, the more tangled it becomes. We might need to stay quiet for a while,” he said in conclusion.

However, his party, Bhumjaithai, later issued a statement announcing its withdrawal from the Pheu Thai-led coalition government and called on Prime Minister Paetongtarn to take responsibility for the leaked and controversial audio clip.

_________________

The rise of BTS

Global appeal

BTS’ mandatory military service stirs debate

Break allows time for solo projects

Health Food Market Booming

Salad Factory Targets Provincial Expansion

Ohkajhu Launches New Menus

Jones Salad Eyes Market Share

PM’s Apology

Border Tensions

No One in the World Does This

Army Chief Calls for Unity

Diplomatic Protest

Hot News

LATEST NEWS