Trang’s 35-Million-Baht Gateway Falls Into Neglect

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14 June 2026, 14:30

Trang’s 35-Million-Baht Gateway Falls Into Neglect

TRANG — Residents have voiced disappointment over the decline of Trang Andaman Gateway, a 35-million-baht tourism project that was once promoted as a landmark attraction but has since become increasingly quiet and fallen into disrepair.

Locals said the site, located along Highway No. 4 between Trang and Phatthalung on Khao Phap Pha in Chong subdistrict, Na Yong district, has seen a sharp drop in visitor numbers despite serving as the main route linking Thailand’s Andaman coast with the Gulf of Thailand.

The attraction was developed under the provincial development plan with a budget of 35 million baht and officially opened in mid-2015.

During its early years, the site attracted large numbers of visitors, particularly during holiday periods when daily arrivals reportedly reached 3,000 people. Tourists frequently stopped to take photographs and enjoy the scenic mountain views.

However, residents said visitor numbers have steadily declined in recent years, while facilities have begun to deteriorate. On some days, the attraction appears almost abandoned despite heavy traffic passing through the area.

The project includes a royal commemorative highway pavilion for southern Thailand, a tourist service center, and various sculptures depicting local cultural and natural heritage, including Khao Phap Pha murals, Sakai (Maniq) indigenous figures, elephant herds, dugongs and Trang’s iconic tuk-tuks.

The site also features landscaped gardens with native southern plants, nature trails, lighting systems, restrooms, roads and parking facilities.

Following complaints from residents and tourists, Krititchai Pakichan, MP for Trang’s 3rd constituency from the Democrat Party, visited the site for an inspection.

He described the attraction as a scenic location suitable for motorists seeking a rest stop, noting that it includes nature study trails, 3D artwork, a miniature monument to Phraya Ratsadanupradit and other features.

Despite its potential, he acknowledged the site’s lack of visitors and said he would raise the issue in Parliament in an effort to find solutions and restore the attraction’s appeal.

Mourners Queue to Pay Tribute to Princess Bajrakitiyabha

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14 June 2026, 13:54

Mourners Queue to Pay Tribute to Princess Bajrakitiyabha

BANGKOK — Large numbers of mourners gathered at the Grand Palace on 14 June 2026, the first day the Bureau of the Royal Household opened a condolence venue for members of the public to pay tribute to Princess Bajrakitiyabha Narendiradebyavati.

The public was invited to pay respects before the Princess’s portrait at Sahathai Samakhom Pavilion and a designated tent area near the lawn beside Sala Luk Khun within the Grand Palace grounds.

From 08:30, government officials, military leaders, private-sector representatives, foundations and members of the public arrived continuously to sign condolence books and offer tributes.

Among those attending were senior military commanders, charitable organizations, civil servants, former Prime Minister Somchai Wongsawat, and representatives from various public and private institutions.

Public services arranged for mourners

Authorities have established food distribution points, medical service stations and free motorcycle shuttle services for visitors.

The Ministry of Transport has also arranged six free shuttle bus routes linking transport hubs and mass transit stations with Sanam Luang, while 18 regular Bangkok Mass Transit Authority bus routes serve the area.

In addition, the Marine Department is operating three free boat shuttle routes on the Chao Phraya River between 13-27 June 2026 to facilitate travel for mourners.

The Bureau of the Royal Household said the public may pay tribute daily from 08:30-16:00 at Sahathai Samakhom Pavilion and the designated tent area beginning 14 June 2026.

The Bureau also announced that members of the public will be permitted to pay respects before the Princess’s casket at Phiman Rattaya Hall following the completion of the 15-day royal merit-making ceremonies. Public access is scheduled from 08:00-21:00 daily, beginning on 27 June 2026.

Government agencies, state enterprises, private organizations and members of the public will also be permitted to participate as hosts of funeral chanting ceremonies after the completion of the first 100 days of royal rites.

Woman arrested with 16kg heroin hidden in pet food bags at Phuket airport

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14 June 2026, 12:54

PHUKET — Police and customs officers have arrested a South African woman at Phuket International Airport after allegedly discovering about 16 kilograms of heroin concealed inside pet food bags in her luggage.

Sakhu Police chief Pol. Col. Salan Santisasanakul reported the arrest to Phuket Provincial Police commander Pol. Maj. Gen. Sinlert Sukhum on the evening of 13 June 2026.

The suspect was identified as Jali, 32, a South African national. The arrest was carried out by investigators from Sakhu Police Station, Phuket Airport Customs officials and officers from the Narcotics Suppression Bureau.

Authorities seized seven packages of Category 1 narcotics (heroin) hidden inside dog and cat food bags packed in blue wheeled suitcases. The drugs were wrapped in clear plastic zip-lock bags and black tape, while some packages were additionally concealed in foil wrapping. The total weight, including packaging, was about 16 kilograms.

Officers also confiscated a used grey Samsung Galaxy A13 mobile phone as evidence.

The suspect was arrested at the oversized baggage drop-off area on the third floor of the International Passenger Terminal at Phuket International Airport in Mai Khao subdistrict, Thalang district, at 18:00 on 11 June 2026.

The investigation subsequently continued at the Phuket Airport Customs Office, Phuket Airport Cargo Building, Thalang Hospital and Sakhu Police Station.

Police said investigators are expanding the probe to identify the source of the narcotics and determine whether the suspect is linked to a wider international drug trafficking network.

The suspect remains in custody pending further legal proceedings.

Five Killed as Indian Air Force Transport Plane Crashes

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14 June 2026, 11:28

Five Killed as Indian Air Force Transport Plane Crashes

NEW DELHI — Five military personnel were killed after an Indian Air Force Antonov An-32 transport aircraft crashed while attempting to land at an air base in Jorhat, Assam state, in northeastern India, officials said on 14 June 2026.

According to a report by The Straits Times, the aircraft went down during a routine mission on 13 June.

FivekilledinIndianmilitarytransportplanecrash 03 — (Photo via NDTV.com)

Authorities have not disclosed how many people were on board the aircraft or whether there were additional survivors. However, an Indian Air Force official told local media that a co-pilot survived the crash.

In a statement, the Indian Air Force said the An-32 was carrying out a normal operational flight when the accident occurred during landing.

FivekilledinIndianmilitarytransportplanecrash 04 — Photo from Facebook/jourhat.unofficial

“The Indian Air Force deeply regrets the loss of five personnel,” the statement said.

The air force added that a board of inquiry is being established to determine the cause of the crash.

FivekilledinIndianmilitarytransportplanecrash 05 — (Photo via NDTV.com)

Van Left Overnight by Lam Takhong Dam Stripped of All Wheels

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14 June 2026, 10:54

Van Left Overnight by Lam Takhong Dam Stripped of All Wheels

NAKHON RATCHASIMA — 14 June 2026, A social media user has warned motorists after thieves allegedly removed all four wheels from a van left parked overnight near Lam Takhong Dam in Sikhiu district.

According to a Facebook post describing the incident, the vehicle owner said he drove a white Toyota Commuter van to the Lam Takhong Dam area in Khlong Phai subdistrict with his family at around 22:00 the previous night.

The family had travelled to fish near the reservoir alongside Mittraphap Road. The van was parked on the upper embankment because it could not be driven down to the lower area near the water.

The owner and his family then spent the night fishing below the dam. When they returned to the parking spot at around 10:00 the following morning, they discovered that all four wheels had been removed from the vehicle.

The theft caused significant damage and left the van immobilised.

The owner said he had not expected such an incident to occur in the area. Following the discovery, he filed a complaint with investigators at Khlong Phai Police Station and asked authorities to track down those responsible.

He also urged police to accelerate their investigation and warned members of the public to exercise caution when parking vehicles in isolated areas.

The victim advised motorists visiting remote locations for recreational activities to regularly check their vehicles and take additional security precautions to avoid becoming targets of theft.

Border Patrol Cop Surrenders After Fatal Huai Khwang Shooting

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14 June 2026, 10:10

BANGKOK — A Border Patrol Police officer surrendered after allegedly opening fire on a group of motorcycle taxi riders in Bangkok’s Huai Khwang area following a dispute over a fare, leaving one rider dead and two others seriously injured.

Police were alerted to the shooting at 02:50 on 14 June 2026 near the entrance of Prachasongkhro 38 Road in Din Daeng district. Investigators from Huai Khwang Police Station, forensic officers, a medical examiner from Ramathibodi Hospital and rescue workers rushed to the scene.

The shooting occurred in front of the Kiatthongchai Market motorcycle taxi stand. Officers found the body of Phurit, 37. He was wearing a black T-shirt covered by an orange motorcycle taxi vest bearing the number 12. He had sustained three to four gunshot wounds to the back.

Two other motorcycle taxi riders were injured. Kiatsak, 46, suffered a gunshot wound to the thigh, while Charin, 48, was shot in the right thigh and left hand. Both were rushed to hospital for treatment.

Witnesses told police that the victim and fellow riders were resting at their motorcycle taxi stand when the suspect approached and began arguing with them. The confrontation escalated into a heated dispute before the suspect allegedly drew a handgun and fired multiple shots into the group.

Phurit died at the scene, while the two other riders were seriously wounded.

Witnesses described the gunman as a young man wearing a black long-sleeved shirt, denim shorts and carrying a black shoulder bag. He fled the scene immediately after the shooting.

Later, police received information that the suspect had surrendered at Makkasan Police Station. He was identified as Police Senior Sergeant Major Namtap Pakwattana, 33, attached to the Border Patrol Police Bureau.

Officers seized a 9mm Sig Sauer pistol and one magazine as evidence.

During questioning, the suspect allegedly admitted that the incident stemmed from a dispute over a motorcycle taxi fare, which escalated into a confrontation. He then allegedly fired at the group of riders before fleeing the scene in a public taxi.

Police have taken the suspect into custody for further questioning and legal proceedings.

The investigation is continuing.

Lisa joins Katy Perry in viral backstage World Cup photo

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14 June 2026, 09:34

Lisa joins Katy Perry in viral backstage World Cup photo

LOS ANGELES, USA — Lisa Manobal, the globally renowned Thai artist and BLACKPINK member, shared the spotlight with American pop star Katy Perry after both performers appeared at the opening ceremony of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States.

Lisa made history as the first Thai artist to perform at a FIFA World Cup opening ceremony. She took the stage for the song Goals alongside Brazilian singer Anitta and Nigerian artist Rema.

The 29-year-old singer later reposted a photo of herself with Perry after the American star shared the image on her Instagram account, which has more than 196 million followers.

Perry, who also performed during the opening ceremony, additionally posted a video showing the two singers embracing and chatting warmly backstage following their performances.

The interaction quickly drew attention from fans of both artists on social media.

King and Queen lead final journey for Princess Bajrakitiyabha

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13 June 2026, 19:07

BANGKOK — His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn and Her Majesty the Queen on Saturday led members of the Royal Family in a royal motorcade accompanying the transfer of the body of Princess Bajrakitiyabha Narendiradebyavati from Chulalongkorn Hospital to Pimarn Rattaya Hall at the Grand Palace.

Along the route, large numbers of mourners gathered to pay their respects, with many bowing, crying, and holding portraits of the late Princess as the procession passed. The motorcade travelled through central Bangkok to the Grand Palace, where the Royal Bathing Rite is being held as part of the royal funeral ceremonies.

Upon arrival, the body was placed at Pimarn Rattaya Hall and prepared for the Royal Bathing Rite, with members of the Royal Family performing the traditional ceremonial pouring of water. His Majesty the King and Her Majesty the Queen later laid wreaths in front of the royal urn, followed by Buddhist chanting by monks marking the beginning of the funeral rites.

Her Royal Highness Princess Bajrakitiyabha Narendiradebyavati, the eldest daughter of His Majesty the King and Princess Somsawali, was born in 1978. Throughout her life, she served in diplomatic and legal roles and was widely recognised for her work in public service and humanitarian causes, including support for disaster relief and initiatives for prisoners and vulnerable groups.

On 14 December 2022, the Princess collapsed due to a serious heart condition while training dogs for an event and was admitted to Chulalongkorn Hospital, where she remained under medical care until her passing on 11 June 2026 at the age of 47.

German mourner praises Princess Bajrakitiyabha’s compassion

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13 June 2026, 18:01

BANGKOK — Among the crowds gathered outside Chulalongkorn Hospital on Friday to pay their respects as Princess Bajrakitiyabha began her final journey to the Grand Palace was a German woman who said she had been deeply moved by the late Princess’s dedication to helping the underprivileged.

Nicki Kuhn, a German national, attended the procession with her Thai friend Araya Piley, 57. She expressed her condolences following the passing of Princess Bajrakitiyabha, the eldest daughter of His Majesty the King, who died on 11 June after more than three years of illness. Kuhn said she admired the Thai Royal Family’s contributions to society and was particularly inspired by the Princess’s concern for disadvantaged people.

She highlighted the Princess’s Kamlangjai Project, which supports female inmates and children living with incarcerated mothers, saying the initiative reflected a genuine commitment to helping vulnerable groups. Kuhn, who said she is also involved in charitable work, praised the Princess’s compassion and added that she had never seen such strong affection for a royal family as that shown by Thai people.

She said witnessing the loyalty and respect displayed during the mourning period had deepened her appreciation for Thailand and its people.

Prime Minister H.E. Anutin Outlines Thailand 2026 Strategy for Growth

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13 June 2026, 16:44

Speaking at the JFCCT Prime Minister’s Address Luncheon 2026, hosted by the Joint Foreign Chambers of Commerce in Thailand (JFCCT), under the theme “Thailand 2026: A Vision for Competitiveness, Investment, and Future Ready – From Uncertainty to Confidence: Reform and Resilience in Business,” His Excellency Anutin Charnvirakul, Prime Minister of Thailand, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to a close collaboration with the foreign business community through reform in areas related to ease of doing business both for existing investors and new FDI.

In his keynote address, the Prime Minister stated “While we cannot eliminate uncertainty from the world, we can create confidence in how we govern, how we reform, and how we partner with business. This commitment is also reflected in Thailand’s accession process to the OECD which reinforces our determination to strengthen governance, competitiveness and international standards. This is a foundation of Thailand’s vision for the near future.”

The Prime Minister further highlighted the importance of investment in high-value industries, clean energy, digital transformation, advanced manufacturing, and future skills. He confirmed the government’s readiness to work with the foreign business community to reduce unnecessary barriers, modernize public services, improve policy implementation, and support both Thai and international businesses in navigating a rapidly changing global economy.

Mrs. Vibeke Lyssand Leirvåg, Chairwoman of the Joint Foreign Chambers of Commerce in Thailand (JFCCT), reaffirmed JFCCT’s role as “The Voice of the Foreign Business Community in Thailand for 50 Years,” marking five decades of contribution, partnership, and long-term commitment to Thailand’s economic development.

“JFCCT’s 29 foreign chambers of commerce and 2 business associations in Thailand as members which represent around 8,000 companies that are deeply rooted in Thailand’s economy, bringing foreign connection, capital, knowhow, technology, skills, innovation, job creation, and long-term economic contribution. These companies are not temporary investors, but committed partners whose value is created locally through employment, skills development, productivity, taxes, innovation, and integration into global value chains”

JFCCT’s six focus areas provide a practical reform agenda for Thailand’s next stage of growth: Competitiveness, Digital Government, Building the Future Workforce, Empowerment of SMEs, Holistic and Cohesive Sustainability, and Fast Track Regulatory Reform. The JFCCT policy booklet, which includes six policy briefs linked to the work of JFCCT’s committees and member chambers, is given to the Prime Minister at the event.

“We live in exciting but challenging times. We are privileged to be able to work closely with government, local communities, civil society, industry groups, and academia towards these aims. The time is now to make committed decisions and follow certain pathways. These things necessarily and unavoidably involve reforms. Thus, the only way is through collaboration and our strong sense of community,” Mrs. Leirvåg stated.

Thai-Chinese Chamber of Commerce: Deepening Investment and Future Industries

Mr. Narongsak Putthapornmongkol, President of the Thai-chinese Chamber of Commerce, noted that as regional supply chains become more integrated, Thailand is well positioned as a strategic production, logistics, and investment hub in ASEAN. Stronger investor confidence will depend on regulatory efficiency, infrastructure readiness, skilled workforce development, and a clear policy environment that supports long-term business growth.

Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Bangkok: Strengthening Thailand’s Gateway to Global Finance and Trade

The Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Bangkok (HKETO) emphasized Hong Kong’s world-class financial services in supporting Thai businesses to excel in the international market. As a top innovation and technology centre with close collaboration with the Shenzhen- Hong Kong-Guangzhou innovation cluster, Hong Kong offers an unmatched gateway to the world-leading tech ecosystem. Its professional service providers are also ready to offer professional advice to Thai companies.

“Hong Kong is a trusted and reliable partner for Thailand’s future-ready journey. Our strengths in financial services, innovation and professional services can perfectly combine with Thailand’s robust manufacturing capabilities and globally recognised soft power to create tremendous synergy,” HKETO stated.

UOB Thailand: Connecting Capital, Confidence and ASEAN Growth

Mr. Richard Maloney, President and CEO of UOB Thailand, emphasized the role of international banking in strengthening Thailand’s investment ecosystem and connecting businesses to regional opportunities. “As an ASEAN-focused bank with a strong regional network, UOB sees Thailand as a strategic gateway for international investors and businesses expanding across the region”

As Thailand prepares for 2026, the message from the luncheon was clear: confidence will be the country’s most important economic currency. “Thailand has the fundamentals to lead, but the road ahead requires decisive reform, consistent execution, and deeper collaboration between government and business. If Thailand can translate reform into action, it can strengthen its position as one of ASEAN’s most resilient, competitive, and future-ready economies,” said JFCCT Chairwoman Vibeke Lyssand Leirvag.

Public services arranged for mourners

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