Anutin says UNCLOS will guide future Thai-Cambodian negotiations

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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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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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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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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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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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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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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.

Ancient drums and skeletons found at Phetchaburi site

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7 May 2026, 15:39

Ancient drums and skeletons found at Phetchaburi site

PHETCHABURI — 7 May 2026, Residents in Phetchaburi province gathered on Wednesday to make merit and honour prehistoric human remains discovered at the Don Yai Thong archaeological site after archaeologists unearthed eight ancient skeletons believed to be between 1,500 and 2,000 years old.

The ceremony was held at Don Yai Thong site in Ban Don Phlap village, Samo Phlue subdistrict, Ban Lat district, where local residents offered food to Buddhist monks and dedicated merit to the deceased whose remains were uncovered during excavations led by the Fine Arts Department.

Officials attending the event included Phetchaburi Provincial Administrative Organisation President Chaiya Angkinan, Ban Lat District Chief Preecha Ananworanat and Nipa Sangkhonakhin, director of Fine Arts Office 1 in Ratchaburi.

Archaeologists from Fine Arts Office 1, working with local authorities and residents, began excavations at the site after the discovery of two ancient bronze drums in February in the middle of a rice field.

The drums, known as “Mahorathuk” drums, are believed to originate from the Dong Son culture in northern Vietnam and later spread throughout the Suvarnabhumi region, including parts of present-day Thailand.

The nearest previous discovery of such drums was in Khu Bua in Ratchaburi province, while no similar drums had previously been found in Phetchaburi or Prachuap Khiri Khan provinces.

Excavations, led by archaeologist Kannika Premjai since 9 February 2026, have continued for nearly three months.

Initial excavations uncovered damaged fragments of bronze drums, pottery, bronze containers, human leg bones and gold jewellery, prompting archaeologists to expand the excavation area.

Between March and April, the team uncovered eight human skeletons laid flat on their backs in rows, with some overlapping each other.

Archaeologists found bronze head ornaments resembling helmets placed over the skulls of all eight skeletons, along with bronze artefacts, stone beads, glass beads and pottery.

The first skeleton discovered was accompanied by a large number of gold ornaments, including bracelets, rings, pendants, beads and earrings.

Four additional bronze drums were later uncovered, bringing the total number found at the site to six.

Archaeologists believe the discoveries represent prehistoric burial rituals dating back around 1,500 to 2,000 years, before cremation practices became common.

The presence of gold jewellery, bronze artefacts and bronze drums suggests the individuals buried at the site were members of a high-status social group rather than ordinary villagers.

Experts also noted that the intricate gold ornaments resembled Indian craftsmanship, indicating the community may have had trade connections with external civilisations.

Nipa thanked local residents, officials, educational institutions and the landowners for supporting the excavation work.

However, she warned that heavy moisture, underground water and the approaching rainy season were creating difficulties for archaeologists and threatening the preservation of the human remains, as water had begun seeping into the excavation pits from surrounding rice fields.

AIS launches Southeast Asia’s first 5G-Advanced network

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MC Marketing

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7 May 2026, 14:33

AIS, Thailand’s leader in intelligent digital infrastructure, today marked a significant milestone for the telecommunications industry with the launch of “AIS 5G-ADVANCED”, Southeast Asia’s first next-level 5G network standard. The launch elevates AIS’ 5G network to a new era of intelligent connectivity, powered by advanced capabilities such as Downlink 3CC and Uplink 2CC to deliver faster downloads, stronger uploads, lower responsiveness, and greater overall network efficiency. Built to support next-generation digital lifestyles and enterprise use cases, AIS 5G-ADVANCED also lays a strong foundation for the future transition toward 6G.

This advancement is driven by the integration of three core strengths: Partnership + AI + Innovation. By combining global partnerships, AI-powered network intelligence, and continuous network innovation, AIS is setting a new benchmark for “5G-ADVANCED” through 5G SA Carrier Aggregation technology across both 3CC and 2CC. This enables multiple frequency bands to work together seamlessly, with 3CC combining the 700 MHz, 2100 MHz, and 2600 MHz bands, and 2CC combining the 700 MHz and 2600 MHz bands, significantly enhancing network performance and delivering a clearly superior connectivity experience.

The technology increases download speeds by up to 1.5 times through 5G SA Downlink 2CC/3CC and upload speeds by up to 2 times through 5G SA Uplink 2CC. AIS is also integrating AI into network traffic management through an Autonomous Network, enabling the network to analyze, adapt, and respond efficiently to usage conditions in real time.

Currently, 5G SA Downlink 3CC is available in Sathon and Bang Rak, with plans to expand to key areas across Bangkok and its metropolitan region by 2026. Meanwhile, 5G SA Downlink 2CC is already available in Bangkok, the metropolitan region, and major city centers nationwide. 5G SA Uplink 2CC is also available in major city areas across the Northeastern region, Bangkok, and the metropolitan region, and is expected to be available in major city centers nationwide by 2026.

Mr. Wasit Wattanasap, Head of Nationwide Operations and Support Business Unit at AIS, said: “AIS’ key mission is to strengthen Thailand’s digital infrastructure, making it more robust, modern, and ready to support the continued growth of the digital economy. At the heart of this infrastructure is the mobile network, which serves as a vital artery of connectivity, linking people, businesses, industries, government agencies, and digital services together. Therefore, network development today is no longer only about increasing speed, signal coverage, or the number of base stations. It is about building new capabilities for the country and delivering the best digital experience to customers in every use case.

The launch of AIS 5G-ADVANCED marks another important step in AIS’ journey to transform 5G from a connectivity network into an intelligent digital platform that can help drive Thailand’s economy and society over the long term. This is achieved through the integration of three core strengths: Partnership, through collaboration with world-class device partners; AI, which enhances intelligent network management; and Innovation, through the continuous development of network technologies. Together, these form a key foundation for the Autonomous Network of the future.

The core of AIS 5G-ADVANCED lies in Carrier Aggregation technology, including both 2CC and 3CC, which combines multiple frequency bands to enhance performance across downloads, uploads, smoothness, stability, and network responsiveness. Whether customers are watching high-definition video, playing online games, livestreaming, uploading content, or working through the cloud, those in service areas with compatible devices will be able to experience a clearly enhanced level of connectivity.

Beyond speed and network performance, AIS also places strong emphasis on enhancing digital safety. We are applying AI to strengthen customer protection through AIS SAFE CONNECT, which can alert customers of suspicious numbers during calls, as well as through *1185# and the 1185 hotline, which work with the police to receive reports of suspicious phone numbers and SMS messages for further blocking. These initiatives help customers use digital services with greater confidence and peace of mind.

As a developer of Thailand’s digital infrastructure, AIS will continue to expand the capabilities of its network across speed, stability, security, and intelligence. Our goal is to support new digital services for consumers, businesses, and industries, while serving as a critical foundation for driving the digital economy and strengthening Thailand’s competitiveness in a sustainable way,” Mr. Wasit concluded.

For customers using “AIS 5G-ADVANCED”, the service can be identified by the 5G+ symbol shown at the upper-right corner of the mobile screen. This indicates that the customer is connected to an enhanced 5G network with improved speed, stability, and performance. Availability depends on service area, supported frequency bands, compatible devices, and appropriate packages. Customers who meet these conditions can access the enhanced 5G network experience without subscribing to an additional package.

This milestone in advancing Thailand into a new chapter of intelligent networks further reinforces AIS’ role as a national digital infrastructure provider, or National Digital Infrastructure, committed to elevating the digital experience for Thai people, businesses, and industries, and enabling the country to move confidently into the future.

For more information about AIS 5G-ADVANCED, please visit https://www.ais.th/about-us/network-technology/5g-for-consumer/superior-trusted-network

Fire reignites at popular Rangsit pub after blaze

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7 May 2026, 14:08

Fire reignites at popular Rangsit pub after blaze

PATHUM THANI — 7 May 2026, Firefighters returned to battle a blaze at a popular pub in Rangsit on Wednesday morning after flames reignited inside the building, causing extensive damage throughout the venue.

Chayut Sinpoonphak, deputy mayor of Rangsit municipality, and municipal councillor Jamrat Chusuk led emergency crews and five fire engines to the entertainment venue in Khlong Nueng area along the Rangsit-Nakhon Nayok canal road in Prachathipat subdistrict, Thanyaburi district, after reports that the fire had broken out again.

Firefighters found flames and heavy smoke spreading from the ceiling on the second floor of the building. Crews sprayed water into the ceiling cavity, where soundproof foam panels had been installed, amid concerns that trapped heat could cause the fire to flare up again.

Authorities said the fire destroyed the interior of the entertainment venue.

Officials said the initial fire was first reported at around 4:50, with firefighters and officers from Pratunam Chulalongkorn police station arriving at the scene at approximately 5:00.

Large flames and thick smoke were found on the second floor, particularly in a storage room containing old chairs and other items belonging to the pub. Firefighters managed to bring the blaze under control later in the morning.

However, because the venue was an enclosed space fitted with soundproofing materials, residual heat caused the fire to reignite.

The pub had already closed for the night when the fire broke out and no injuries were reported.

Authorities said the extent of the damage had not yet been assessed. Municipal engineers will inspect the building structure to determine whether it remains safe following the fire.

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