Thai PM says ASEAN can no longer remain reactive

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8 May 2026, 15:11

Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul on Friday urged ASEAN to strengthen unity, resilience and its global role amid rising geopolitical uncertainty and a changing world order.

Speaking during the Retreat Session of the 48th ASEAN Summit in Cebu, the Philippines, Anutin said recent tensions in the Middle East reflected growing global instability and showed that the international order was undergoing significant change.

“The world will never be the same again,” government spokeswoman Rachada Dhnadirek quoted him as saying.

Anutin said ASEAN could no longer remain reactive and must respond to challenges with greater agility and foresight. He proposed three strategic priorities for the bloc: stronger regional unity, greater resilience and maintaining ASEAN’s relevance on the global stage.

He stressed the importance of “ASEAN Centrality,” saying member states should keep ASEAN at the core of their foreign policies while strengthening mechanisms for crisis coordination and confidence-building.

Anutin also said ASEAN must remain a trusted partner in supporting multilateralism and a rules-based international order, while ensuring regional integration delivers tangible benefits for people.

On Myanmar, he said recent developments — including the pardon of former President U Win Myint and the transfer of detained former state counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi to a residential setting — could help create a more favourable atmosphere for dialogue and reconciliation.

He added that Thailand was ready to support ASEAN efforts to gradually re-engage with Myanmar under the bloc’s Five-Point Consensus.

Police raid illegal Chinese drama shoot in Chiang Mai

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Khaosod English

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8 May 2026, 14:56

Police raid illegal Chinese drama shoot in Chiang Mai

CHIANG MAI — 7 May 2026, Thai tourist police arrested eight Chinese nationals during a raid on an illegal film set in Chiang Mai where a Chinese “vertical series” was allegedly being produced without official permission.

The operation followed a nationwide crackdown ordered by the Royal Thai Police targeting criminal activity linked to foreign tourists.

Tourist Police Bureau Commissioner Lt. Gen. Saksira Pueak-am instructed units across the country to intensify inspections of foreign visitors, while investigators under Tourist Police Division 2 launched an inquiry after receiving reports of unauthorised filming at a house in Hang Dong district.

Police said they found a group of Chinese crew members and a Thai interpreter actively filming scenes inside the property.

Authorities said the group failed to produce filming permits required under Thai law and no government officials were supervising the production as mandated. Investigators also found that the Chinese nationals had entered Thailand as tourists and did not possess work permits.

One suspect, identified by police as Ms Wei, reportedly admitted she was working as both producer and actress for a “vertical series”, a short-form drama format that has recently grown in popularity online.

She told investigators the production team selected Chiang Mai because of its popularity among Chinese tourists and its well-known tourist attractions.

Police informed the suspects that film production in Thailand is regulated under the 2008 Film and Video Act, which requires official approval, script review and government supervision during filming to prevent content that could damage the country’s image.

Violations can carry fines of up to 1 million baht.

The eight Chinese nationals were handed over to investigators at Hang Dong police station to face charges of working in Thailand without permission.

Authorities said additional legal action regarding the unauthorised film production would be referred to the Film and Video Committee under the Tourism Department for further consideration.

Tourist police urged the public to report suspicious behaviour involving foreign nationals through the 1155 Tourist Police hotline or the Thailand Tourist Police application, available 24 hours a day.

CKPower’s green debenture sale draws demand more than double offering size

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MC Marketing

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8 May 2026, 13:53

Reflecting Strong Investor Confidence in a Resilient Business amid Global Economic Volatility

Mr. Thanawat Trivisvavet, Managing Director of CK Power Public Company Limited or CKPower (SET: CKP), one of the region’s largest producers of electricity from renewables with one of the lowest carbon footprints, announced the successful offering of its green debentures. The company’s unsubordinated and unsecured green debentures with a debentureholders’ representative were issued on April 27-29, consisting of three tranches and amounting to THB 5 billion. The oversubscription of over 2 times reflected strong investors’ confidence in the company’s business fundamentals and growth outlook amid global economic volatility.

“CKPower would like to express its sincere appreciation to all investors for their trust and confidence in the company’s debentures and business operations. We also extend our gratitude to the joint lead arrangers, Krung Thai Bank Public Company Limited, CIMB Thai Bank Public Company Limited, The Siam Commercial Bank Public Company Limited, and Kiatnakin Phatra Securities Public Company Limited for their support in ensuring the success of the debenture issuance. This success reflects confidence in the company’s strong business fundamentals and its commitment to renewable energy development that strengthens energy security while supporting sustainable growth,” said Mr. Thanawat.

The debentures have been assigned an “A-” credit rating with a “Stable” outlook by TRIS Rating, consistent with CKPower’s corporate credit rating. In addition, the debentures are classified as Green Debentures in accordance with the Green Bond Principles 2021, the Green Loan Principles 2025 and the Thailand Taxonomy 2023. The issuance has been reviewed by DNV, a leading global assurance provider, acting as the Independent External Reviewer. This reflects the company’s commitment to transparent fundraising practices which are in line with international standards. The issuance comprises three tranches as follows:

Tranche 1: THB 5 billion 4-year tenure with interest rate of 2.89% per annum;
Tranche 2: THB 1 billion 7-year tenure with interest rate of 46% per annum and the issuer’s right to early redemption; and
Tranche 3: THB 5 billion 10-year tenure with interest rate of 3.75% per annum and the issuer’s right to early redemption.

Proceeds from this issuance will be used to invest in the Luang Prabang Hydroelectric Power Project in the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, which is currently under construction. The project aims to enhance Thailand’s energy security and support the transition toward renewable energy in line with global energy trends. The successful issuance also reinforces CKPower’s role as a green debentures issuer that effectively links fundraising with the development of environmentally friendly energy projects in a tangible way.

Mr. Thanawat stated that, under the company’s five-year plan (2026–2030), CKPower aims to expand its power generation capacity through solar energy projects in the form of private PPA arrangements and participation in government renewable energy bidding, alongside the sale of Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs). Meanwhile, the Luang Prabang Hydroelectric Power Project has reached 65% construction progress as of the end of 2025 and is expected to commence commercial operations (COD) as scheduled in 2030. CKPower remains committed to driving growth through innovation in energy efficiency, enhancing power generation performance and raising energy conservation awareness across the value chain. These efforts aim to balance energy security, sustainable returns and environmental stewardship, while supporting the transition from fossil fuels toward a low-carbon energy generation system to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

Anutin says UNCLOS will guide future Thai-Cambodian negotiations

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Khaosod English

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8 May 2026, 12:06

Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul said Cambodia has acknowledged Thailand’s cancellation of the 2001 memorandum of understanding, with both sides agreeing to use the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) as the key framework for future discussions.

Speaking after a trilateral meeting between Thailand, Cambodia and the Philippines on the sidelines of the ASEAN Summit in Cebu on Thursday evening, Anutin said both countries shared a commitment to peace, stability and constructive dialogue while protecting their national interests.

The talks were held at the invitation of Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., who sought to promote cooperation and mutual understanding within ASEAN, Anutin said.

Thailand brought representatives from its foreign affairs and security agencies to reaffirm its position of pursuing peaceful approaches alongside safeguarding sovereignty and the interests of the Thai people, he added.

Anutin said the meeting reviewed progress on security measures and military coordination between Thailand and Cambodia, noting that no violent incidents had occurred along the border during the past five months.

Thailand also explained its reasons for terminating the 2001 MOU, formally known in Thailand as MOU 2544, with Cambodia acknowledging and understanding Bangkok’s position, he said.

“Both countries agreed to adhere to the principles under UNCLOS as an important framework for future operations,” Anutin said, adding that further discussions would still be needed on practical details.

The two sides also agreed to gradually resume discussions at all levels, including through the Joint Boundary Commission (JBC), General Border Committee (GBC), and talks between foreign ministers, with the aim of generating mutual benefits for both peoples.

Anutin stressed that all negotiations must remain based on the existing ceasefire agreement and previously agreed mechanisms in order to build trust and maintain a peaceful atmosphere.

He described the discussions as a positive signal for strengthening peace and stability between Thailand and Cambodia, while insisting that the dispute was between governments and not between the peoples of the two countries.

The prime minister also urged both countries to ensure the safety of Thai nationals in Cambodia and Cambodians in Thailand, and to prevent discrimination or inappropriate actions.

Anutin said Thailand and Cambodia should continue bilateral discussions through constructive negotiations without pressure from third countries, warning against any escalation of tensions.

He clarified that the talks did not involve negotiations on border demarcation or border reopening, but focused only on agreeing to begin operational-level discussions, with Thailand’s foreign minister and deputy chief of defence forces expected to continue detailed talks.

Thailand would fully protect its dignity, sovereignty and national interests throughout the process, he said.

Phuket student helps saves life of foreign toursit with CPR

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Khaosod English

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8 May 2026, 10:46

PHUKET — 8 May 2026, Jojo Savel, a teenage student in Phuket has been praised after performing CPR on a foreign tourist who collapsed unconscious on a road in Kathu, helping save the man’s life before emergency responders arrived.

According to local page Phuket Times, the incident occurred in front of a tea shop in Kathu district, Phuket, when the tourist suddenly fainted and fell to the ground, striking his head and suffering a bleeding injury.

Amid panic from bystanders, a schoolboy selling grilled mala pork skewers nearby rushed to assist the tourist and began performing CPR while waiting for rescue workers and an ambulance to arrive.

After several minutes of chest compressions, the tourist reportedly began showing signs of responsiveness and regained consciousness, bringing relief to witnesses at the scene.

The page praised the student, writing: “A Kathu Wittaya student in Phuket helped save a foreign tourist’s life with CPR. While selling mala skewers, he saw a male tourist collapse unconscious and hit his head on the ground, causing bleeding. Without hesitation, he stepped in to perform CPR while waiting for an ambulance.”

The post drew widespread praise online, with many social media users commending the student for his quick thinking and compassion.

Jojo Savel is a student at Kathu Wittaya School. Locals said the teenager regularly sells grilled pork skewers after school to help support his education.

Residents said the tourist may not have survived had the student not intervened during the critical moments before paramedics arrived, calling the incident an inspiring example of kindness and public spirit among Phuket’s youth.

Russian tourist praised for helping Phuket street vendor

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Khaosod English

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8 May 2026, 09:29

Russian tourist praised for helping Phuket street vendor

PHUKET — 8 May 2026, A Russian tourist has drawn praise online after stopping to help an elderly street vendor push his cart up a steep hill at a popular viewpoint in Phuket.

The incident, shared by the local Facebook page, took place at the Windmill Viewpoint in Rawai subdistrict, Mueang district.

Video footage showed the Russian man pulling over after noticing the elderly vendor struggling to push a cart loaded with piggy banks uphill on his own. The tourist immediately got out of his vehicle and helped push the cart while the vendor walked behind.

The gesture impressed onlookers and quickly attracted widespread praise after the clip circulated online.

Social media users commended the tourist’s kindness, with many saying compassion transcends nationality, language and religion.

“One good tourist like this is worth welcoming by the thousands,” one commenter wrote, while another said, “Whether someone is good or bad has nothing to do with nationality or religion. It depends on the person’s heart.”

Others thanked the tourist on behalf of the elderly vendor and noted that many Russian visitors to Thailand are generous and kind-hearted.

The brief roadside act has since become another feel-good story widely shared online, highlighting how small acts of kindness can bridge cultural and language differences.

Anutin, Hun Manet agree to rebuild trust after Cebu trilateral talks

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Khaosod English

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7 May 2026, 19:27

Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet agreed to pursue peace and rebuild mutual trust following trilateral talks hosted by Philippine President Bongbong Marcos in Cebu on Thursday evening.

The meeting, held at the Shangri-La Mactan ahead of the 48th ASEAN Summit, was initiated by the Philippines in its role as ASEAN chair to discuss the Thai-Cambodian situation.

Speaking after the talks, Anutin thanked Marcos for facilitating what he described as an important meeting. He said discussions with Hun Manet were constructive, forward-looking and candid, while reaffirming both sides’ commitment to dialogue and peace.

Anutin said Thailand and Cambodia share close ties in many areas and stressed that conflict only brings loss and suffering to all parties.

“It is time for both countries to look forward and open a new chapter in relations,” he said, adding that rebuilding ties would require sincerity, honesty and a shared commitment to overcoming challenges together.

Thailand and Cambodia also agreed to assign their foreign ministers to jointly develop practical confidence-building measures, starting with areas where both sides share common ground and can take immediate action.

The Thai premier said the measures would help gradually restore trust and strengthen bilateral relations.

He added that both countries should increase direct communication at all levels to reduce misunderstandings and expand cooperation in areas of mutual benefit.

On land and maritime boundary issues, Anutin said Thailand proposed approaches for future discussions based on good neighbourly relations.

He described the meeting as an important step toward creating an atmosphere conducive to peace and regional cooperation, while reaffirming Thailand’s readiness to work constructively with all parties based on mutual respect and shared interests.

Heavy rain causes leaks at Surat Thani hospital

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Khaosod English

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7 May 2026, 17:39

Heavy rain causes leaks at Surat Thani hospital

SURAT THANI — 7 May 2026, Heavy rain in Surat Thani city caused severe roof leaks at Surat Thani Hospital on Wednesday, disrupting staff and patients inside the facility.

The incident occurred at around 13:30 as heavy rainfall swept through the province, with water reportedly pouring through parts of the hospital building “like an open tap”, according to local reports.

Videos shared by the Facebook page “Monmai Surat Thani” showed large amounts of water leaking inside the hospital, while staff worked to manage the situation.

“Please help Surat Thani Hospital. Funding is urgently needed,” the page wrote, expressing sympathy for hospital staff and patients affected by the flooding.

The page later stated that the OPD 2 building was an ageing structure that had been in use for many years and regularly suffered roof leaks during prolonged rainfall.

“After around half an hour of rain, the roof leaks like this. It may not be surprising because the building is very old and likely needs urgent renovation while waiting for a new building to be constructed,” the post said.

The page also questioned reports that leaks had occurred in a newer special ward building on the seventh floor.

Hospital officials were preparing a formal explanation regarding the incident later on Wednesday.

Taiwan-Thailand trade surges 47.8% in Q1 as TECO expands tech talent programme

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Khaosod English

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7 May 2026, 17:20

Trade between Taiwan and Thailand rose by 47.8% in the first quarter of 2026 compared with the same period last year, according to Taiwan’s Ministry of Economic Affairs, marking a new high in bilateral economic relations.

The Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Thailand (TECO) said Taiwan is strengthening its role in Thailand’s industrial and technology sectors through investment and talent development initiatives.

Since the launch of the “Taiwan-Thailand Tech Talent Service Platform” in late 2025, TECO said it has expanded recruitment and training programmes aimed at supporting Taiwanese businesses operating in Thailand.

In the first quarter of 2026, TECO and Taiwanese companies organised recruitment seminars at vocational colleges in Bangkok, Pathum Thani and Chonburi, reaching more than 3,000 students.

Taiwan has also established “International Talent Circulation Bases” in northern and northeastern Thailand under its INTENSE Programme, expanding technical training opportunities beyond Bangkok.

TECO said it is also working with printed circuit board (PCB) manufacturers and Thai industrial estates to improve employment pathways for Thai graduates.

According to data from Taiwan’s Ministry of Economic Affairs and Thailand’s Board of Investment (BOI), Taiwan ranked as Thailand’s fourth-largest trading partner and sixth-largest source of foreign investment.

In 2025, Taiwanese investment in Thailand totalled 131 projects worth 273.5 billion baht, mainly in electronics, ICT and PCB-related industries.

Educational exchanges also continued to grow, with nearly 2,000 Thai students studying in Taiwan in 2025, up 5% from the previous year.

Peter Lan, TECO’s representative in Thailand, said Taiwan-Thailand cooperation is shifting from traditional manufacturing toward AI and smart technology industries.

“Taiwan is not just here for trade and investment; we are committed to local talent cultivation,” he said.

Israeli embassy in Thailand warns citizens over tougher law enforcement crackdown in Phuket

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Khaosod English

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7 May 2026, 15:44

205 — The Israeli embassy in Thailand has warned its citizens in Phuket to strictly follow Thai laws after local authorities reportedly agreed to increase enforcement against foreigners on the island.

The Embassy of Israel in Thailand has warned Israeli citizens in Phuket to strictly comply with Thai laws after local authorities reportedly agreed to intensify enforcement measures targeting foreigners on the island.

In a public advisory addressed to Israeli nationals, the embassy said a discussion among Phuket provincial officials had resulted in plans for stricter enforcement against foreign residents and tourists.

“Please, for your own good, be sure to act according to the procedures and the laws of the place,” the embassy wrote in the notice.

According to the advisory, authorities have instructed all relevant agencies to adopt “aggressive enforcement” measures and strictly apply existing laws and regulations.

The embassy said foreigners who violate the law could face the harshest penalties allowed under Thai law as part of a deterrence campaign.

The notice also highlighted efforts to increase awareness among tourists regarding local rules and legal requirements, saying officials would place greater emphasis on explaining Thai laws to visitors.

In serious cases, authorities may coordinate with immigration officials to revoke visas or residence permits, the advisory added.

The embassy specifically warned Israeli citizens about traffic-related offences, particularly driving without valid licences.

It said authorities would adopt a “zero tolerance” approach, adding that offenders caught driving without licences would be prosecuted in court without exception.

The advisory did not specify what prompted the discussions among Phuket officials or whether the measures specifically targeted any nationality.

However, Phuket authorities have in recent years increased scrutiny of foreign-related offences amid growing concerns over illegal businesses, visa overstays, reckless driving, public disturbances and crimes involving tourists and expatriates.

Driving offences involving foreign tourists have also become a recurring issue in Phuket, particularly cases involving motorcycle rentals and visitors driving without valid international or Thai licences.

Under Thai law, foreigners driving motorcycles or cars without proper licences can face fines, legal prosecution and insurance complications in the event of accidents. Serious offences may also affect immigration status or future visa applications.

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