Thai filmmaker Apichatpong named Knight of France’s Legion of Honour

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11 June 2026, 12:30

BANGKOK — Award-winning Thai filmmaker Apichatpong Weerasethakul has been made a Knight of the Legion of Honour, the highest distinction of the French Republic, in recognition of his contribution to cinema and cultural exchange.

French Ambassador to Thailand Jean-Claude Poimboeuf presented the insignia to Apichatpong during a ceremony at the French Residence on 10 June.

Apichatpong, born in 1970, graduated from Khon Kaen University’s Faculty of Architecture before earning a Master of Fine Arts in filmmaking from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. He began making films and videos in the early 1990s and emerged as one of Thailand’s most prominent independent filmmakers.

Known for his distinctive storytelling style, Apichatpong often draws inspiration from provincial life, folklore and popular culture. His films frequently feature non-professional actors and blend reality, memory and imagination.

He made history in 2010 as the first Thai director and the first filmmaker from Southeast Asia to win the Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival for Uncle Boonmee Who Can Recall His Past Lives. In 2021, he received the Jury Prize at Cannes for Memoria.

The French Embassy described Apichatpong as a major figure in contemporary auteur cinema whose work has left a lasting mark on the global cultural landscape. Beyond his films, he has also played an important role in supporting younger generations of Thai artists and filmmakers.

France said the honour recognises an artist whose work has transcended national borders and helped strengthen cultural ties and dialogue between France and Thailand over several

A Thai woman is in custody after an American diplomat was found dead in Myanmar

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Associated Press

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11 June 2026, 11:30

A Thai woman is in custody after an American diplomat was found dead in Myanmar — FILE - This shows U.S. Embassy in Yangon, Myanmar, on Feb. 13, 2021. (AP Photo, File)

BANGKOK (AP) — An American diplomat was found dead in Myanmar’s largest city, the U.S. State Department said, and members of the diplomatic community in Yangon say a Thai woman has been detained by police in connection with the investigation.

American officials in Thailand and the U.S. Embassy in Myanmar referred questions on the case to the State Department, which confirmed the “death of a U.S. government employee” assigned to the embassy in Yangon but gave no other details.

“Out of respect for the privacy of the family and loved ones, we have no further information to provide at this time,” the State Department said in an emailed reply to questions from The Associated Press.

According to three people in the diplomatic community in Myanmar, who spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss the case, the man was found dead about two weeks ago at the Sakura Residence & Hotel. The facility, with long-term rentals, is popular with diplomats, business people and other international visitors, and is located about 1.5 kilometers (1 mile) from the American Embassy.

They said police are treating the case as a possible homicide and have a Thai woman in custody.

Thailand’s Foreign Ministry said it has provided consular assistance to the woman in custody and notified her family, but would not comment further.

Myanmar, formerly known as Burma, is embroiled in fighting between the country’s military-led government, which ousted democratically elected leader Aung San Suu Kyi in 2021, and a disparate group of militias organized by the country’s ethnic minority groups and pro-democracy forces.

Authorities typically give little information to the media, and the duty officer answering the phone at the police station responsible for the area where the Sakura hotel is located refused to comment and hung up on an AP reporter.

The manager of the Sakura hotel also declined to comment.

Scientist Says Noodle Poisoning May Be Linked to Sodium Nitrite

By

Khaosod English

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11 June 2026, 10:43

Scientist Says Noodle Poisoning May Be Linked to Sodium Nitrite

BANGKOK — 11 June 2026, A prominent Thai scientist said a mysterious powder believed to have contaminated noodle soup in northeastern Thailand was likely sodium nitrite, after hospitals treating affected patients were supplied with the antidote methylene blue.

The incident occurred in Udon Thani province, where at least 14 people fell ill after eating noodles from a local shop in Ban Phonsawan, Nong Na Kham subdistrict. Several patients required urgent hospital treatment.

Nopparat Phanset, director of the National Health Security Office’s Region 8 branch in Udon Thani, said the Ramathibodi Poison Centre had provided direct consultation to treating physicians on symptom assessment, diagnosis and antidote use.

The centre also coordinated the delivery of methylene blue to hospitals caring for the patients. Five patients with severe symptoms received the antidote promptly in line with medical guidelines, he said.

On 11 June, Jessada Denduangboripant, a science lecturer at Chulalongkorn University, said in a Facebook post that the use of methylene blue strongly suggested the contaminating substance was sodium nitrite.

“If methylene blue was sent as an antidote, then the powder mistaken for salt and used in the noodles was likely sodium nitrite,” he wrote, adding that the reported symptoms were consistent with sodium nitrite poisoning.

Sodium nitrite (NaNO₂) is a chemical commonly used as a preservative in processed meats such as sausages and Chinese-style cured pork sausages. It helps prevent bacterial growth and maintains a bright red colour in meat products.

However, excessive consumption can interfere with the blood’s ability to carry oxygen by causing a condition known as methemoglobinemia. Symptoms may include bluish discolouration of the skin, breathing difficulties and, in severe cases, rapid death.

Methylene blue is the primary treatment for methemoglobinemia. The medication helps restore the normal function of red blood cells, enabling them to transport oxygen effectively throughout the body.

Authorities have not yet officially confirmed the identity of the powder, and investigations into the incident remain ongoing.

DE confirms new ETDA ad verification rule

By

Mc Marketing

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11 June 2026, 10:00

DE Confirms ETDA’s New Social Media Ad Verification Rule Is Real, Helping Prevent Online Scams.

Mr.Wetang Phuangsup, Ministry of Digital Economy and Society Spokesperson, spoke about the latest monitoring results from the Anti-Fake News Center Thailand (AFNC), in line with the policy of Mr.Chaichanok Chidchob, Minister of Digital Economy and Society, to strengthen public awareness of technology-related crimes, fake news, and misinformation.

On 7 June 2026, AFNC monitored a total of 130,496 messages and identified 4,716 messages requiring verification. Most reports came from Social Listening channels, accounting for 4,714 messages, while 2 messages were received through the AFNC Line Official account.

A total of 24 issues were investigated, with verification results received for 12 cases. Among these, seven stories attracted the highest public interest, including three true stories, three fake stories, and one misleading story.

The most notable verified story concerned reports that the Electronic Transactions Development Agency (ETDA) had introduced a new rule requiring identity verification before advertisements can be placed on social media platforms. The Ministry verified the announcement published in the Royal Gazette and confirmed that the information is true.

According to the Royal Gazette announcement issued by the Electronic Transactions Commission on 5 May 2026, social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and other online platforms are now required to verify the identities of advertisers before allowing advertisements to be published. The measure is designed to prevent online platforms from being used for fraud and technology-related crimes.

Under the new requirements, advertisers must verify their identities using reliable documents, such as a national ID card, passport, or corporate registration documents. Digital identity verification systems that meet official standards may also be used.

In addition, platform providers must collect and retain advertisers’ identity and contact information to enable authorities to trace individuals if legal violations occur. Such information must be retained for at least 90 days after advertising services have ended.

The measure aims to improve the safety of online advertising and reduce fraud targeting the public through digital channels.

The Ministry also urged the public to remain vigilant against fake news circulating on online and social media platforms. Sharing unverified information may lead to misunderstanding, financial losses, and the exposure of personal data, while also causing wider social impacts.

People are encouraged to trust and share information only from official sources and to verify facts and website links before believing or sharing them.

Members of the public who encounter suspicious information or potential fake news can report it or verify information through the Anti-Fake News Center Thailand via Hotline 1111 ext. 87, available 24 hours a day.

Thailand Warns of Heavy Rain and Flood as Monsoon Hits 63 Provinces

By

Khaosod English

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11 June 2026, 09:45

Thailand Warns of Heavy Rain and Flood as Monsoon Hits 63 Provinces

BANGKOK — 11 June 2026, Thailand’s Meteorological Department has warned of increased rainfall and possible flash flooding across much of the country, with heavy to very heavy rain forecast for 63 provinces as monsoon conditions intensify.

In its 24-hour forecast issued on 11 June 2026, the department said northern Thailand, the upper Northeast, the East and the Andaman coast in the South were expected to experience the heaviest rainfall.

The weather conditions are being driven by a monsoon trough stretching across Myanmar and northern Thailand into a low-pressure area over the northern South China Sea. A moderate south-westerly monsoon continues to prevail over the Andaman Sea, Thailand and the Gulf of Thailand.

Authorities urged residents in affected areas to remain alert for heavy and accumulated rainfall, warning of possible flash floods and forest run-off, particularly in low-lying areas and locations near waterways.

Moderate seas are expected in the upper Andaman Sea, where waves could reach about 2 metres. Waves in the lower Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand are forecast at 1 to 2 metres, rising above 2 metres during thunderstorms. Mariners have been advised to exercise caution and avoid sailing in storm-affected areas.

The forecast covers the period from 06:00 on 11 June to 06:00 on 12 June.

In the North, thunderstorms are expected across 70% of the region, with heavy to very heavy rain forecast in Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Lamphun, Lampang, Phayao, Nan, Phrae, Uttaradit, Kamphaeng Phet, Phichit, Sukhothai, Phitsanulok, Phetchabun and Tak.

The Northeast is also expected to see thunderstorms across 70% of the region, with heavy to very heavy rain likely in Loei, Nong Bua Lamphu, Nong Khai, Bueng Kan, Udon Thani, Sakon Nakhon, Nakhon Phanom, Chaiyaphum, Khon Kaen, Kalasin, Mukdahan, Maha Sarakham, Roi Et, Yasothon, Amnat Charoen, Ubon Ratchathani, Nakhon Ratchasima, Buri Ram, Surin and Si Sa Ket.

In the Central Plains, thunderstorms are forecast across 60% of the area, with heavy rain expected in Nakhon Sawan, Uthai Thani, Chai Nat, Lop Buri, Saraburi, Kanchanaburi, Ratchaburi, Nakhon Pathom and Samut Sakhon.

The eastern region is forecast to experience thunderstorms over 60% of the area, with heavy to very heavy rain in Nakhon Nayok, Prachin Buri, Sa Kaeo, Rayong, Chanthaburi and Trat.

Along the eastern coast of southern Thailand, thunderstorms are expected across 40% of the region, mainly in Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumphon, Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phatthalung and Songkhla.

The western coast of the South is expected to face the most severe conditions, with thunderstorms forecast across 80% of the region and heavy to very heavy rain likely in Ranong, Phang Nga, Phuket, Krabi, Trang and Satun.

Bangkok and surrounding provinces are forecast to experience thunderstorms across 60% of the metropolitan area, with isolated heavy rain possible.

Temperatures nationwide are expected to range from 23C to 36C. Authorities continue to advise residents in flood-prone areas to monitor weather updates closely and prepare for possible weather-related emergencies.

New Springtail species discovered in Thailand’s Rama IX Forest

By

Khaosod English

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10 June 2026, 17:40

New Springtail species discovered in Thailand's Rama IX Forest

PATHUM THANI — 10 June 2026, A joint research team from the National Science Museum (NSM), Thaksin University, and Prince of Songkla University have discovered a new insect species, “Rama IX Springtail,” at Rama IX Museum’s forest park, marking the latest addition to the world’s known biodiversity.

On Wednesday, Acting NSM director, Suwarong Wongsiri, revealed that researcher team from NSM, Thaksin University, and Prince of Songkla University have discovered a new-to-science insect species called the “Rama IX Springtail” at the Rama IX Museum’s forest park.

The “Rama IX Springtail” belongs to the subfamily Heteromurinae within the family Orchesellidae and has been named Alloscopus ramani sp. nov., after its discovery site in the forest park of the Rama IX Museum building.

Suwarong added that measuring just 1.1 to 1.4 millimetres in length, the Rama IX springtail has a slender body, white coloration patterned with orange-brown bands and eye patches on its head. It resembles Alloscopus tetracanthus (Börner, 1906), a more widely distributed species, but can be distinguished by the unique arrangement of body hairs.

Regarding its distribution, current research data indicates that the species has been found only in Pathum Thani province, Thailand, making it endemic to a single known location in Thailand. Springtails are typically found in moist environments.

Suwarong further stated that more than 9,000 species of springtails have been reported worldwide. They inhabit a remarkable range of environments, from forest floors and tree canopies to volcanic craters and deep cave systems. Seventeen species within the same genus have been reported globally, seven of which have been recorded in Thailand.

“We must give importance to these tiny springtails that are near invisibility to the naked eye, because in reality, springtails serve a monumental role as the “housekeepers” or heroes of the ecosystem,” Suwarong stated. He added, “They break down organic matter into soil nutrients and act as natural regulators, keeping microbes and fungi in check. They are truly vital links that keep the food chain cycling smoothly.”

“The discovery of the Rama IX springtail is more than a taxonomic achievement,” he said. “It is a reminder for us to look back and appreciate the importance of the biodiversity that closest to us. With every step we take on damp ground, these tiny creatures may be hard at work. This collaboration between academic institutions and the museum represents a major stride toward expanding our knowledge, empowering us to understand and protect the smallest of living things, and their homes, to preserve our beautiful ecosystem forever.”

The world’s newest insect, the “Rama IX Springtail,” is now on display in the “Hidden Paradise” exhibition at Rama IX Museum, located within the National Science Museum complex in Khlong Ha sub-district, Khlong Luang district, Pathum Thani province. Visitors can view the exhibit from Tuesday to Friday between 09:30 and 15:00, and from 09:30 to 17:00 on weekends and public holidays.

Israeli Suspect Arrested at Samui Airport for Land Nominee Case

By

Khaosod English

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10 June 2026, 17:08

Israeli Suspect Held at Samui Airport in Land Nominee Case

SURAT THANI — 10 June 2026, Thai authorities have arrested an Israeli national at Samui Airport on charges linked to an alleged nominee scheme used to acquire land on Koh Phangan through Thai proxy shareholders.

Police have been targeting foreign investors accused of illegally operating businesses, displacing Thai workers or using Thai nationals as nominees to conceal foreign ownership of land. In mid-May 2026, authorities launched an operation dubbed “Crackdown on Foreign Nominee Networks on Koh Phangan,” resulting in 45 arrest warrants. So far, 27 suspects have been apprehended, while efforts continue to locate the remaining 18.

Most recently, investigators from Surat Thani Immigration Police, working with Koh Phangan Police Station, arrested Alisa, a 30-year-old Israeli national, under an arrest warrant issued by the Samui Provincial Court on 21 May 2026.

He is accused of jointly submitting false information to land officials in order to obtain control of land through a company allegedly established using Thai nominee shareholders.

Authorities intercepted Alisa at Samui Airport as he was re-entering Thailand.

Police said Alisa was a shareholder in Alisa Paradise Co. Ltd. He had reportedly left the country before authorities executed a court-authorised search related to the investigation.

Investigators later learned that he was due to return through Samui Airport at about 10:30 on 10 June and moved in to arrest him upon arrival.

During initial questioning, Alisa admitted he was the person named in the warrant, police said.

He allegedly told investigators that he hired an accounting firm to register Alisa Paradise Co. Ltd. and used Thai nationals supplied by the firm as nominee shareholders. The company was then used to register land holdings on Koh Phangan, where he planned to build a private holiday residence in the future.

Police transferred the suspect to investigators at Koh Phangan Police Station for legal proceedings.

Authorities said they would continue expanding the investigation into the wider network, including the accounting firm involved and Thai nationals who allegedly agreed to act as nominees.

Seven arrested in Thai concert ticket scam linked to 350 X accounts

By

Khaosod English

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10 June 2026, 16:03

BANGKOK — 10 June 2026, The Anti Online Scam Centre (AOSC) and the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) have arrested seven members of an online fraud ring accused of selling fake concert tickets through more than 350 X accounts, deceiving nearly 1,000 victims and causing losses of about 4 million baht ($121,688).

The operation was launched under the direction of Pol. Gen. Thana Choowong, deputy national police chief and director of the Police Cyber Taskforce (PCTF), together with Pol. Lt. Gen. Jirabhop Bhuridej, assistant commissioner-general and deputy director of the PCTF, and Pol. Lt. Gen. Natthasak Chaowanasai, commissioner of the CIB.

They assigned officers from the Technology Crime Suppression Division (TCSD), Crime Suppression Division (CSD) and Huai Khwang Police Station to carry out coordinated raids and arrests.

The suspects were identified only as:

• Thawatchai, 26
• Udomsak, 37
• Sasiprapha, 23
• Thanyaluck, 37
• Rattanakorn, 25
• Jetsupa, 22
• Surakarn, 22

All seven were arrested under Criminal Court warrants on charges including public fraud, fraud by impersonation, importing false information into a computer system, conspiracy to commit money laundering, money laundering, and participation in a criminal association known as Ang-Yee.

Authorities seized 10 bank passbooks, four mobile phones and one vehicle as evidence. Arrests were made in Bangkok, Nakhon Pathom and Phuket.

The investigation centred on a network accused of fraudulently selling tickets for concerts and fan events featuring both Thai and international artists through X.

Events involving K-pop artists GOT7, Jackson Wang, NCT, DAY6, BLACKPINK, SEVENTEEN, aespa, TWICE, EXO and D.O., as well as international performers ONE OK ROCK and Daniel Caesar, were allegedly used to lure victims. Thai artists whose events were exploited included Cocktail, BUS, Three Man Down, Asanee-Wasan, Nont Tanont, Jeff Satur, Potato, Paradox, Billkin and Tattoo Colour.

Police said concert ticket scams remain one of the most common forms of cybercrime in Thailand. Victims are often fans seeking tickets for highly anticipated concerts, fan meetings and music festivals. The high demand and limited availability of tickets frequently prompt buyers to transfer money before verifying sellers’ identities.

Investigators found that the network operated more than 350 X accounts to advertise non-existent tickets. A total of 739 complaints were submitted through Thailand’s online reporting system, with reported losses exceeding 3.7 million baht ($US 112,000).

According to police, the group maintained a clear division of responsibilities. Members monitored ticket release trends, posted fraudulent listings, communicated with victims, sourced mule bank accounts to receive transfers and withdrew cash to conceal financial trails before distributing the proceeds among members.

After gathering evidence, investigators obtained arrest warrants and launched raids targeting individuals responsible for opening mule accounts, withdrawing funds, researching ticket sales, communicating with victims and procuring bank accounts for the operation.

During questioning, Thanyaluck admitted she had been recruited by friends in early 2025 to withdraw money from bank accounts. She said she was told the funds came from legitimate business activities and was instructed to hand over the cash after each withdrawal.

She told investigators she later realised the group was operating a concert ticket scam after bank accounts were frozen and victims began reporting fraud linked to ticket sales on X. She admitted making more than 50 cash withdrawals involving over 200,000 baht.

Rattanakorn told investigators that members closely monitored upcoming high-demand concerts and events before copying booking confirmations and e-ticket images posted by legitimate sellers on X.

The images were then altered by changing buyer names and seat numbers and adding the group’s own watermarks to make the listings appear genuine before being reposted online.

She also admitted sourcing X accounts with more than 2,000 followers for use in the scams. To avoid detection, account names and user IDs were frequently changed after each operation.

Police said the group also obtained mule bank accounts and edited images of account holders’ identification cards by adding the phrase “For concert ticket sales only” to create a false sense of legitimacy.

Once victims transferred money, the funds were rapidly moved through multiple accounts before being withdrawn and distributed among members. Investigators believe the operation had been active since late 2024.

All seven suspects have been handed over to TCSD Sub-Division 2 investigators for further legal proceedings.

AIS showcases AI-powered IoT solutions at Global Telecom AIoT Summit 2026

By

MC Marketing

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10 June 2026, 16:01

Under the topic “AI for All,” AIS took part in the Global Telecom AIoT Summit 2026, a worldwide forum for knowledge sharing and innovation in AI and Internet of Things (IoT). The event, which was organized by the Telecommunications Association of Thailand under the Royal Patronage, brought together executives, technology partners, industry experts, and government representatives from different nations to share viewpoints on digital technologies and AIoT applications across business and industrial sectors.

At the event, Mrs. Saichon Submakudom, Chief Corporate Communication of AIS, together with AIS executives, welcomed representatives from the public and private sectors, as well as local and international partners attending the summit. where AIS showcased its IoT solutions and digital innovations, demonstrating the potential of digital technologies to enhance operational efficiency across organizations, from smart device connectivity and real-time data management to data analytics that support business decision-making

AIS also shared insights on AIoT applications through a presentation titled “AIoT Ecosystem for Business,” delivered by AIS experts in IoT and Smart Solutions. The session highlighted approaches to leveraging AI and IoT technologies to transform operational data into actionable insights that can help business and organizations enhance efficiency, create business value, and support growth in the digital era.

AIS remains committed to advancing intelligent digital infrastructure and innovative technologies to support Thailand’s transition toward an AI-driven economy, while contributing to the sustainable growth of businesses and industries through digital transformation.

DE blocks gambling websites ahead of World Cup 2026

By

Mc Marketing

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10 June 2026, 15:45

DE has blocked over 673,000 gambling-related URLs in the past eight months as part of an intensified crackdown ahead of FIFA World Cup 2026.

Ms.Nan Boontida Somchai, Deputy Minister of Digital Economy and Society, revealed that Mr.Chaichanok Chidchob, Minister of Digital Economy and Society, has directed authorities to strengthen measures against threats to national security and social well-being. The policy includes intensified efforts to combat online crime and block illegal social media accounts, pages, websites, and URLs, particularly those related to online gambling.

Most recently, the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society (DE) has continued blocking social media accounts, pages, and URLs linked to illegal gambling under court orders, while also working closely with digital platforms to remove such content.

During fiscal year 2026, from 1 October 2025 to 31 May 2026, a total of 673,699 gambling-related URLs were blocked over an eight-month period. Of these, 635,717 URLs were blocked under court orders, while 37,982 URLs involving scams and online gambling were removed through cooperation with digital platforms.

In May 2026 alone, authorities blocked 78,796 illegal gambling URLs, including 68,571 URLs under court orders and 10,225 URLs removed through platform cooperation.

Overall, the ministry blocked a total of 787,899 illegal social media accounts, pages, websites, and URLs during the same eight-month period. This included 732,521 items blocked under court orders and 55,378 items removed through coordination with platforms.

“The DE Ministry has intensified efforts to block URLs related to online gambling, particularly during the FIFA World Cup 2026, which will begin on 11 June. Minister Chaichanok has instructed authorities to closely monitor and aggressively block illegal gambling activities,” said Ms.Nan.

She also warned the public to be cautious when sharing content that may violate the law on digital platforms and social media, especially content linked to gambling websites and online scams. Even unintentional sharing of such content could be considered a violation of Section 14 of the Computer Crime Act.

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