Japan university offers meditation course with Thai monks

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9 April 2026, 18:22

KYOTO, JAPAN — Ryukoku University in Japan has introduced a new meditation course as part of its modern Buddhist studies programme, inviting Thai monks to teach students in a cross-cultural academic collaboration.

The course, titled Samatha-Vipassana in Buddhism and Modern Mindfulness, is being offered in the first semester, with more than 70 students enrolled.

According to Phra Khru Samut Sanitwong Wutthiwongso, communications director at Wat Phra Dhammakaya, two Thai missionary monks have been appointed as lecturers for the programme.

They are Phra Khru Palad Sunet Chalabhinyo, abbot of Wat Pa Dhammakaya International Tochigi, and Phra Maha Phongsak Thanio, abbot of Wat Phra Dhammakaya Tochigi. The pair will jointly conduct 15 sessions throughout the semester.

The curriculum combines theoretical instruction on Buddhist meditation principles with practical training, allowing students to practise meditation in class. Participants are also required to continue practising independently and document their progress in a meditation diary to assess changes in their mental well-being.

Founded in 1639 and based in Kyoto, Ryukoku University is one of Japan’s oldest higher education institutions, offering programmes across 10 faculties and serving more than 20,000 students.

Thailand accelerates AI-driven photonics push with strong policy backing in Lumentum partnership

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MC Marketing

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9 April 2026, 17:44

Thailand is advancing its ambition to become a regional hub for advanced electronics and AI-driven industries, as a new collaboration between Lumentum, national research institutions, and academia gains strong policy endorsement from the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI).

The partnership, formalized through a memorandum of understanding with Lumentum, Mahanakorn University of Technology (MUT) and the Thai Microelectronics Center (TMEC), reflects a coordinated national push to align industrial investment with education reform and workforce development. The initiative has received strong backing from Prof. Dr. Yodchanan Wongsawat, Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, underscoring the government’s commitment to positioning Thailand at the forefront of emerging technology sectors.

Framed within Thailand’s broader economic transition, the collaboration places particular emphasis on photonics, a critical technology underpinning AI systems and hyperscale data centers. As global demand for high-speed, energy-efficient data transmission accelerates, photonics is increasingly seen as a foundational layer of the digital economy.

Prof. Dr. Supachai Pathumnakul, Permanent Secretary of MHESI, said the partnership reflects a strategic alignment between global industry leaders and Thailand’s long-term development goals. “This collaboration highlights Thailand’s readiness to strengthen its competitiveness by building a robust ecosystem that integrates education, research, and industry,” he said, pointing to semiconductors and photonics as key drivers of future economic growth.

Beyond signaling investor confidence, the initiative addresses a structural challenge in Thailand’s high-tech ambitions: the shortage of specialized research and development talent. While the country has a strong base in manufacturing, the transition toward advanced technology sectors requires a significant expansion of skilled human capital. Industry estimates suggest demand could reach approximately 12,000 professionals annually.

Mr. Michael Hurlston, President and Chief Executive Officer of Lumentum, described Thailand as an increasingly central node in the company’s global strategy. “Thailand has become a center of gravity for our operations. Our commitment goes beyond manufacturing, we are investing in R&D, talent development, and long-term collaboration with both academia and policymakers,” he said.

Mr. Kok Wai Hoo Senior Vice President Operation of Lumentum, added that the company is prepared to engage at a systemic level, including contributing to policy direction and academic programs. “We aim to help shape both the workforce and the policy landscape, supporting Thailand’s goal of becoming a leading AI player in Southeast Asia,” he noted.

A defining feature of the initiative is its integrated approach to education and industry. Lumentum will support curriculum co-development, provide advanced laboratory equipment, and enable hands-on training through dedicated photonics labs. This model is designed to ensure that graduates are equipped with industry-relevant skills and can contribute immediately to high-tech sectors.

Dr. Adisorn Tuantranont, Director of the Thai Microelectronics Center, emphasized the strategic importance of building domestic expertise in emerging technologies. “Developing photonics capabilities requires not only infrastructure but also a continuous pipeline of skilled personnel. This collaboration creates a national platform for advancing both,” he said.

From the academic side, the partnership marks a shift toward application-oriented research and innovation. Prof. Dr. Panavy Pookaiyaudom, President of Mahanakorn University of Technology, said the university is repositioning itself to bridge the gap between research and industrial deployment. “Our goal is to transform research into real-world applications, enabling innovation to move from the laboratory to commercial production,” she said.

Structured as a five-year framework, the agreement outlines long-term collaboration in talent development, infrastructure investment, and research commercialization. It also reflects a broader policy direction to foster deeper integration between public institutions and private sector leaders.

From a public policy perspective, the strong involvement of MHESI signals a shift toward more proactive state facilitation in high-tech industry development. By aligning educational reform with industrial demand and global technology trends, Thailand is seeking to strengthen its position within the global electronics and semiconductor value chain.

As competition intensifies across the region, the success of this initiative will depend on Thailand’s ability to translate policy support and industry collaboration into scalable outcomes. If effectively implemented, the partnership could serve as a model for how emerging economies build competitive advantage in next-generation technologies.

Thailand freezes 8.2 billion baht more in scam network probe

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Khaosod English

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9 April 2026, 15:41

Thailand freezes 8.2 billion baht more in scam network probe

BANGKOK — 9 April 2026, Thailand’s Anti-Money Laundering Office (AMLO) has ordered the seizure and freezing of additional assets worth about 8.27 billion baht in connection with an alleged scam network linked to Ben Smith and Yim Liak, officials said.

The decision was made on 8 April by AMLO’s Transaction Committee, which authorised the temporary seizure of 34 items for up to 90 days in a case involving Tangthai (surname withheld), Yim Liak, Ben Smith, Wirinya and Kattriya, along with associates.

The assets include vehicles, loan receivables, bank deposits, and funds and securities held in trading accounts, with a combined value of approximately 8.269 billion baht under order No. Y.96/2569.

The latest move brings the total number of seized or frozen assets in the case to 102 items, valued at about 20.392 billion baht.

AMLO said it has been working with the Royal Thai Police and the Securities and Exchange Commission to crack down on scam operations. The case is part of an ongoing investigation into the network linked to the named suspects and their associates.

Authorities allege the group is involved in multiple predicate offences, including drug-related crimes, human trafficking, public fraud, secret society membership, participation in a criminal organisation, and systematic fraudulent activities.

Previously, authorities had already seized or frozen assets worth about 12.123 billion baht under related orders (Y.300/2568 to Y.302/2568). The case is currently under consideration by the Civil Court, under black case number F 31/2569.

Anutin pledges border wall, speeds up MOU2001 termination study

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Khaosod English

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9 April 2026, 14:18

9880 — Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul

At 09:05 on 9 April at Parliament, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul delivered the government’s policy statement, outlining three core principles guiding the administration: safeguarding the nation, religion and monarchy; upholding democratic governance with the King as head of state; and adhering to the rule of law, fair law enforcement and good governance for the benefit of the public.

He said the government would prioritise border security to ensure the country is free from all threats, while strengthening cooperation with neighbouring countries and regional partners to address transnational issues. Measures include prevention, surveillance and preparedness to mitigate impacts from both domestic and external threats.

Anutin highlighted key concerns including narcotics, scam networks and environmental crimes. The government plans to develop integrated data-sharing systems and consider building border barriers to prevent illegal activities such as smuggling, drug trafficking, illegal labour, scam operations, forest burning and illegal mining, while enhancing ties with neighbouring countries to promote regional stability.

On Thailand–Cambodia relations, he said the government would continue efforts to resolve issues through peaceful means and existing bilateral mechanisms, while expediting a study on the possible termination of the 2001 memorandum of understanding on overlapping maritime claims between the two countries (MOU 2001).

Lampang police launch horse patrols for Songkran, cut fuel costs

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Khaosod English

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9 April 2026, 13:01

Lampang police launch horse patrols for Songkran, cut fuel costs

LAMPANG — 8 April 2026, Police in Lampang have introduced horse-drawn carriage patrols for the Songkran festival, combining local heritage with public safety efforts while reducing fuel consumption.

The initiative, led by Muang Lampang Police Station, deploys carriage patrols alongside conventional car and motorcycle units to maintain order, protect lives and property, and boost confidence among tourists during the holiday period.

Officers selected for the programme underwent training with the Lampang Carriage Association to learn how to handle and control horse-drawn carriages before being assigned to active duty. Patrols will focus on key routes, including Boonyawat and Thip Chang roads, as well as economic areas in the city centre.

Pol. Lt. Col. Thanee Tanjankul, deputy superintendent for prevention and suppression, personally tested the carriage patrols and led officers in field operations. He said the project aligns with policy set by provincial police chief Major General Phumiphan Nawatrakulpisut to enhance security during the festival.

Carriage patrols will operate alongside other units, providing supplementary and joint patrols, and in some areas replacing motorised patrols to help reduce fuel use amid high energy prices. Officers will also monitor sensitive locations such as gold shops, businesses and tourist sites across the city.

As part of the initiative, officers wear traditional-style police uniforms while on duty, reflecting Lampang’s unique identity as Thailand’s only province where horse-drawn carriages remain in use for tourism.

Carriages have been part of Lampang’s history since the reign of King Chulalongkorn in 1915, when they served as a primary means of transport between provinces such as Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai and Phrae. While they have largely disappeared elsewhere, Lampang has preserved the tradition and formally established its carriage association in 1952.

The Latest: Iran closes the Strait of Hormuz in response to Israeli attacks on Lebanon

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Associated Press

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9 April 2026, 08:59

The Latest: Iran closes the Strait of Hormuz in response to Israeli attacks on Lebanon

IRAN — 8 April 2026, Iran, the United States and Israel agreed to a two-week ceasefire on Tuesday, an 11th-hour deal that headed off U.S. President Donald Trump’s threat to unleash a bombing campaign that would destroy Iranian civilization. Hours after the announcement, Iran and Gulf Arab countries reported new attacks Wednesday, though it was not clear if the strikes would scuttle the deal.

All sides have presented vastly different versions of the terms. Iran said the deal would allow it to formalize its new practice of charging ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz. Trump said the U.S. would work with Iran to remove buried enriched uranium, though Iran did not confirm that.

AP26096675311022 — President Donald Trump departs after speaking with reporters during a news conference in the James Brady Press Briefing Room at the White House, Monday, April 6, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson)

Pakistan and others said fighting would pause in Lebanon, which Israel has invaded to fight Iran-backed Hezbollah militant group, but Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said early Wednesday that the deal doesn’t cover fighting against Hezbollah. Israeli strikes hit several dense commercial and residential areas in central Beirut Wednesday afternoon without warning, killing dozens and wounding hundreds of people.

Iran closed the Strait of Hormuz again Wednesday in response to Israeli attacks against the Hezbollah militant group in Lebanon.

AP26098646916646 — White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt speaks with reporters in the James Brady Press Briefing Room at the White House, Wednesday, April 8, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

The ceasefire may formalize a system of charging fees in the Strait of Hormuz that Iran instituted — and give it a new source of revenue. Iranian attacks and threats deterred many commercial ships from passing through the waterway, through which 20% of all traded oil and natural gas passes in peacetime.

AP26098657559032 — A man sits inside a shelter watching television news after a two-week ceasefire with Iran was announced, in Tel Aviv, Israel, Wednesday, April 8, 2026. (AP Photo/Ohad Zwigenberg)

Thailand targets global role in semiconductors and photonics

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Khaosod English

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8 April 2026, 19:56

BANGKOK — Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation Yodchanan Wongsawat met with Michael Hurlston, CEO of global optical and laser technology leader Lumentum, to discuss strategic collaboration aimed at advancing Thailand’s semiconductor and photonics industries.

The meeting at the Ministry of Higher Education focused on strengthening Thailand’s position in the global value chain through support for advanced technologies, including AI, data centers, and modern digital infrastructure.

Both sides exchanged views on the country’s semiconductor sector, with the ministry highlighting policies to shift from traditional manufacturing toward higher-value activities such as design, research, and applied innovation—areas in which Lumentum holds global expertise.

An MOU was signed between Lumentum, Mahanakorn University of Technology (MUT), and the Thailand Microelectronics Center (TMEC) to establish a “Triple Helix” ecosystem linking government, academia, and industry. The agreement covers workforce development, short- and long-term courses in photonics and advanced communications, research lab upgrades, internships, and industry exposure programs.

Hurlston expressed confidence in Thailand’s potential, pledging long-term partnership to develop high-skilled talent and enhance the country’s competitiveness in AI, semiconductors, and related technologies globally.

Thai police subdue drug-fuelled man wielding knife

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Khaosod English

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8 April 2026, 17:50

Thai police subdue drug-fuelled man wielding knife

NONG KHAI — 5 April 2026, Police in northeastern Thailand subdued a 32-year-old man allegedly under the influence of drugs after he threatened residents with a knife in a village, authorities said.

The incident occurred at about 18:30 in Ban Sangkali, Kaeng Kai subdistrict, Sangkhom district.

Patrol officers responded to reports of a man behaving erratically after taking methamphetamine and brandishing a knife while shouting and intimidating villagers.

At the scene, officers found the suspect, later identified as Sitthichai, holding a machete on a public road and causing fear among nearby residents.

Police used trained tactics and control equipment to subdue and detain him before handing him over to investigators.

He faces charges of illegal use of a Category 1 narcotic (methamphetamine) and carrying a weapon in a public place without reasonable cause.

Bangkok Skytrain driver screams mid-journey, sparks panic

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Khaosod English

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8 April 2026, 17:47

BANGKOK — A female train driver has been suspended after passengers reported hearing screams from the driver’s cabin on the suburban Red Line, prompting concern among commuters and widespread discussion on social media.

According to the Department of Rail Transport, the incident occurred on 7 April at around 14:30 on a train travelling from Rangsit to Don Mueang. Passengers said they heard repeated screaming from the cabin, at times continuous, causing panic. Some attempted to knock on the door but received no response before the noise eventually stopped.

Director-General Pichet Kunadhamraks said authorities were alerted via social media later that evening and immediately coordinated with the operator, SRT Electrified Train Company, to investigate.

Preliminary findings indicate the driver had been on duty from 07:00 to 15:00, with the incident occurring during her final trip of the day. Officials believe the behaviour may have been linked to accumulated stress combined with personal issues.

Despite the incident, the driver was able to operate the train safely to its final destination at Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal.

The operator said it has temporarily removed the driver from duty and reassigned her to another position, while arranging comprehensive physical and mental health evaluations. It also apologised for the distress caused to passengers.

The company added that all staff undergo strict pre-duty checks, including physical and mental readiness assessments, alcohol testing, and safety inspections. No irregularities were found prior to the shift, and CCTV footage showed no use of mobile phones during operation.

The Department of Rail Transport said it is reviewing staff qualification standards, particularly mental health screening, to prevent similar incidents in the future. It also reaffirmed that the Red Line maintains high safety standards and has not recorded any major accidents in more than 15 years of operation.

Three Thai crew confirmed dead after Hormuz attack, FM says

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Khaosod English

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8 April 2026, 17:09

BANGKOK — Sihasak Phuangketkeow, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, said on Tuesday that all three crew members of the Mayuree Naree cargo ship, which was attacked by Iran in the Strait of Hormuz, have been confirmed dead.

Speaking at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Sihasak expressed deep condolences to the victims’ families, describing the loss as “deeply saddening.”

He said he is scheduled to visit Oman on 15–16 April at the invitation of his Omani counterpart, where he will convey Thailand’s appreciation for Oman’s assistance to the crew of the Mayuree Naree.

The minister added that Thailand is closely monitoring reports of ongoing discussions between Oman and Iran, which jointly oversee the Strait of Hormuz, on measures to manage maritime traffic, ensure safety, and uphold peaceful navigation in the area.

He said Thailand hopes the talks will yield progress, noting that during a reported two-week ceasefire, there may be an opportunity for vessels stranded in the area to pass through the strait. One Thai vessel has already exited, while nine others remain awaiting clearance, including a ship carrying essential fertiliser cargo.

Sihasak said Thailand will seek Oman’s support in coordinating with Iran to allow the remaining Thai vessels to transit the Strait of Hormuz during the ceasefire period.

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