Japan names Thailand base for “New Cool Japan”, NTT DOCOMO partners with TrueVisions

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22 March 2026, 12:51

Amid the rapid growth of the global media and entertainment industry, which is emerging as a key driver of the digital economy and a powerful form of “soft power” connecting people and cultures worldwide, NTT DOCOMO, Japan’s leading telecommunications and technology provider and a key partner of the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications (MIC) of Japan, has announced a strategic partnership with TrueVisions, an end-to-end content leader under True Corporation, in alignment with the Japanese government’s “New Cool Japan Strategy”.

Under this long-term collaboration, TrueVisions of True Corporation has signed the Japan Content Strategic Partnership Announcement & Joint Statement with NTT DOCOMO to accelerate the delivery of Japanese live-action broadcast content and intellectual property to Thai audiences. TrueVisions NOW will serve as the primary platform for legally offering high-quality Japanese live-action broadcast content through the Lemino Japanese Collection, a world of Japanese culture and entertainment, while reinforcing Thailand’s role as a key gateway connecting Japanese culture and entertainment to audiences in the digital era. Available for audiences from 25 March 2026.

Mr. Takeshi Saito, Senior Executive Vice President, NTT DOCOMO, INC., said “This historic collaboration is driven by a forward-looking vision under the ‘New Cool Japan Strategy’. The Government of Japan places great importance on Thailand as a key partner in ASEAN, not only for its rapidly growing entertainment market, but also for the long-standing cultural ties between our two nations, as well as its advanced digital infrastructure.

This partnership goes beyond expanding business opportunities in the entertainment industry. It represents a ‘cultural bridge’ that brings the people of Japan and Thailand closer together. A key ambition of this collaboration is to build the largest and most vibrant community of Japan enthusiasts in Thailand. The Lemino Japanese Collection, which showcases Japan’s rich culture and entertainment, allows Thai audiences to experience these unique offerings through TrueVisions NOW. In the initial phase, the service will be offered free of charge, allowing everyone to access and be part of this remarkable journey.”

Mr. Birathon Kasemsri Na Ayudhya, Chief Content and Media Officer, True Corporation Plc., said “This collaboration reflects True Corporation’s commitment to integrating digital technology, intelligent network infrastructure, and innovation with a comprehensive content ecosystem to elevate premium entertainment experiences for Thai audiences. We are honored that Thailand has been entrusted as a strategic hub for soft power exchange, underscoring strong confidence in the country’s advanced digital infrastructure readiness, as well as our commitment to enabling Thai people to access world-class content in line with the direction of the NBTC as the broadcasting regulator.

It also reflects the long-standing and deep-rooted cultural ties between Thailand and Japan, and underscores Thailand’s potential as one of the fastest-growing entertainment markets in ASEAN. This partnership with NTT DOCOMO marks another important milestone in elevating TrueVisions NOW as a platform for creative content and inspiration from Japan, bringing together the finest Japanese entertainment to fulfill diverse interests and deliver happiness to Thai audiences.”

Mr. Ongard Prapakamol, Head of TrueVisions & Media Business, True Corporation Plc. said “TrueVisions is delighted to partner with NTT DOCOMO to bring high-quality Japanese live-action broadcast content from Lemino Japanese Collection to Thai audiences through the TrueVisions NOW platform.

This collaboration serves as a key gateway to Japanese entertainment, making it more accessible and convenient for Thai viewers. Audiences will be able to experience a wide variety of premium Japanese content curated from 76 leading partners, including broadcasters in Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagoya, as well as production companies from across Japan. The lineup spans the most comprehensive live-action broadcast content including popular Japanese series (J-Drama), Japanese variety shows, and lifestyle content covering Japanese culture, food, and travel. It also includes Top 10-rated titles in Japan, as well as content premiering for the first time in Thailand. At launch, more than 125 titles will be available, with new content to be added continuously based on Thai audience preferences.

This will enhance a fully immersive entertainment experience on TrueVisions NOW, showcasing the unique charm and identity of Japanese culture that Thai audiences deeply appreciate. The initiative also reinforces Thailand’s role as a strategic gateway, connecting Japanese culture and entertainment with audiences across the region in the digital era.”

AIS ensures network continuity amid Middle East unrest

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22 March 2026, 12:42

In response to the ongoing unrest in the Middle East, AIS acknowledges public concerns regarding potential impacts on communications, connectivity, and energy-related factors. The company has implemented comprehensive measures and is closely monitoring the situation around the clock to ensure stable and uninterrupted service.

Comprehensive Network and Connectivity Preparedness AIS maintains strong preparedness across both domestic and international networks, actively managing resources across primary and backup routes to ensure service continuity. Currently, cables passing through the affected risk areas account for less than 10% of internet traffic to Europe.
Continuous Monitoring to Minimize Impact The company continues to closely assess developments and potential service impacts, enabling timely mitigation measures and minimizing any effects on customers.
Proactive Operations AIS operates proactively through a dedicated task force that closely monitors the situation and coordinates with relevant stakeholders domestically and internationally, including global service provider partners, to ensure network stability and readiness to support all customer segments.

AIS reaffirms its full readiness to support domestic and international connectivity and remains committed to upholding the highest service standards, ensuring customers can continue to rely on AIS services with confidence under all circumstances.

Thailand joins US, allies to boost missile and drone production in Asia

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Khaosod English

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22 March 2026, 12:24

20260320_Stryker_Handover_3-scaled — Handover ceremony of 17 Stryker armoured vehicles by the US to the Royal Thai Army during Exercise Hanuman Guardian 2026 in Lop Buri, boosting defence cooperation and military modernisation, 20 March.

Thailand has officially joined the Partnership for Indo-Pacific Industrial Resilience (PIPIR), as member nations reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening defence industrial cooperation and supply chain resilience across the region.

In a joint statement released following the group’s 2nd annual plenary meeting held virtually on March 18, representatives from 16 countries endorsed a 2026 roadmap aimed at accelerating collaboration in defence production, sustainment and technology development.

The statement, published by the United States Department of War, confirmed the accession of Thailand and the United Kingdom as the 15th and 16th members of the partnership, joining a coalition that includes the United States, Japan, Australia and several European and Indo-Pacific nations.

Senior officials and national armaments directors said the partnership would focus on addressing capacity shortfalls and strengthening resilience in the global defence industrial base, particularly in response to growing operational demands.

Members agreed to deepen integration across defence supply chains, reduce regulatory barriers, and expand forward sustainment capabilities, while accelerating the production of key military systems and components.

The meeting also reviewed progress since PIPIR’s establishment, including initiatives first announced at the Shangri-La Dialogue in May 2025. These include plans to develop a forward repair capability for P-8 radar systems in Australia and to establish common standards for small unmanned aerial systems across the Indo-Pacific.

Participants agreed to expand the regional sustainment hub in Australia to support additional P-8 operators, and to advance cooperation on drone technologies through joint industry surveys, shared standards and potential future battery development projects.

The statement highlighted ongoing efforts to enhance collaboration through training and knowledge-sharing, including an annual multinational armaments cooperation course co-hosted by the department’s Asia-Pacific Center for Security Studies and rotating PIPIR members.

New initiatives were also endorsed, including exploring the feasibility of a forward-deployed F100/F110 engine repair hub in Japan, and progressing the establishment of a CH-47 Chinook engine maintenance hub in South Korea.

Other efforts include a joint US-Japan solid rocket motor production initiative, expanded munitions development cooperation with the Philippines, and exploring modular unmanned aerial vehicle projects to support regional co-production.

Officials said PIPIR would continue to serve as a key multilateral platform to enhance defence industrial resilience, improve interoperability, and support regional security and economic stability in the Indo-Pacific.

Thai MP acquitted of lèse-majesté charges, from 2020 speech

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21 March 2026, 17:36

Thai MP acquitted of lese-majeste, protest speech charges — Piyarat's post on his facebook "Breaking: At 09:15 today, the Ubon Ratchathani Provincial Court dismissed the lese-majeste (Section 112) case against “Toto” Piyarat Chongthep, ruling that his actions did not constitute an offence as charged." His comment says "The Ubon Ratchathani Provincial Court considered the case and found that the defendant’s actions did not constitute offences under Section 116 of the Criminal Code or the Computer Crime Act as charged, and therefore dismissed all charges."

UBON RATCHATHANI — 20 March 2026, A provincial court has acquitted MP Piyarat Chongthep, also known as “Toto”, of lèse-majesté and related charges over a speech delivered at a 2020 protest, according to court and rights group reports.

The Ubon Ratchathani Provincial Court delivered its ruling at about 09:15 dismissing all charges against Piyarat, a party-list MP from the People’s Party and former leader of the We Volunteer (WeVo) group.

He had been charged under Section 112 (lese-majeste), Section 116 (sedition) and the Computer Crime Act in connection with remarks made during the “Let the Children Speak, Let Adults Listen” rally at the city pillar shrine on 22 August 2020.

The court found that the defendant’s actions did not constitute offences as charged, ruling that the speech amounted to an expression of opinion on the origins of the constitution, institutional structures and historical conflicts, rather than assertions of fact that would meet the legal threshold for the charges.

As a result, the court dismissed all counts, including those under Sections 112 and 116, as well as the Computer Crime Act.

The verdict was also reported by Thai Lawyers for Human Rights, which said the court determined the speech fell within the scope of opinion and did not violate the law.

1.3 million meth pills seized along Mekong in Nong Khai

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21 March 2026, 16:10

1.3 million meth pills seized along Mekong in Nong Khai

NONG KHAI — 21 March 2026, Authorities in northeastern Thailand have seized 1.3 million methamphetamine pills worth an estimated 39 million baht (about 1.1 million USD) along the Mekong River, officials said.

The drugs were discovered by village security volunteers during a patrol of a high-risk border area in Sangkhom district, provincial officials announced.

According to the governor of Nong Khai, the team was patrolling the Mekong riverbank near Ban Pha Daeng village at about 08:30 on 20 March when they found three suspicious packages left by the water.

Officials later confirmed the packages contained about 1.3 million methamphetamine tablets following testing with chemical reagents.

Authorities believe the drugs were smuggled into the country by trafficking networks and left at the riverside in preparation for transport to inner provinces.

The seized narcotics have been handed over to relevant agencies for further investigation as officials work to identify those involved in the smuggling operation.

Seven novice monks allege sexual abuse by former Bangkok temple monks

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Khaosod English

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21 March 2026, 15:52

guardians-of-children-abused-by-monks — Ms. Pavena, president of The Foundation for Children and Woman, sits across from guardians who spoke out about abuse of their children by senior monks at a Bangkok temple.

PATHUM THANI — 21 March 2026, Seven novice monks have come forward with allegations of sexual abuse against two former senior monks from a prominent Bangkok temple, with their parents seeking assistance from the Pavena Foundation for Children and Women.

The group requested support in filing complaints with the Anti-Human Trafficking Division (AHTD) on behalf of four additional novices, forming a second group of complainants. Three minors had previously filed complaints.

The case follows an earlier development from 26 February 2026, when Ms. Pavena, president of the foundation, accompanied three minors and their parents to provide information to senior officers at the Central Investigation Bureau, before filing complaints with AHTD. The allegations involve two senior monks acting as mentors who are accused of sexual assault.

On 21 March, parents brought four more novices to the foundation, stating they were victims of the same two suspects, who were arrested by AHTD officers the previous day. They also alleged that other monks, both within the same temple and from other temples, had committed similar offences. The families are seeking legal action to the fullest extent.

A parent of a 15-year-old former novice said the boy entered the monkhood during the 2023 summer term and stayed in the same kuti (living quarters) as a 47-year-old mentor monk. The parent alleged that the abuse began within the first week. Five novices shared the kuti, and all were subjected to inappropriate physical contact. Some were afraid to resist due to fears of harm or reprisal.

The parent said the alleged abuse escalated and continued over a prolonged period, lasting approximately two years and eight months. In November 2025, the boy informed his mother and subsequently left the monkhood. The family initially did not pursue legal action but later came forward after learning of similar cases being assisted by the foundation.

Ms. Pavena expressed appreciation to officers of the Anti-Human Trafficking Division for their work in gathering evidence, securing arrest warrants, and obtaining confessions from the suspects. She described the case as a significant example of law enforcement action against abuse.

Authorities are preparing further interviews with the four additional novices, who were identified during the operation.

Ms. Pavena added that three former novices who have already received assistance visited the foundation to discuss their education. The foundation will coordinate with the Ministry of Education to place them in appropriate schools.

For the remaining four novices — some of whom have already left the monkhood — parents have requested assistance in filing complaints as a second group, with appointments already scheduled with AHTD.

She added that the foundation will coordinate with relevant agencies to support those affected, including educational placement, psychological support through the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security, and compensation through the Ministry of Justice. The case will be pursued with investigators until the legal process is complete.

Soaring oil prices drive EV demand surge in Korat

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Khaosod English

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21 March 2026, 14:31

a picture of a man holding an EV charger in an EV

NAKHON RATCHASIMA — 20 March 2026, A major electric vehicle (EV) dealer in Korat says tensions in the Middle East and surging global oil prices are driving a sharp rise in EV demand, with bookings increasing significantly.

Mr. Sudtirak Phansai-chuea, an executive at Ek Saha Group, said the current spike in global fuel prices and emerging shortages have directly influenced consumer behaviour, forcing many to adapt more quickly than before.

He noted a clear surge in interest, reflected in a sharp increase in showroom visits and enquiries about EVs. Compared with late last year, the number of prospective buyers has risen markedly.

While previous government incentives such as the EV 3.0 scheme helped stimulate the market, he said current demand is increasingly driven by practical necessity, as consumers begin to view petrol-powered vehicles as a financial burden rather than a convenience.

Looking ahead, he expressed confidence that the EV sector will continue to expand in line with rapid technological advancements — from hybrid systems to plug-in hybrid and extended-range EVs — gradually reducing reliance on fossil fuels and paving the way for fully electric vehicles. Conventional internal combustion engine vehicles, he added, are likely to play a diminishing role over time.

He also highlighted the economic advantages of EVs, noting that the cost per kilometre is around 20% of that of petrol vehicles — allowing users to save up to 80% on fuel expenses.

As an example, he said a motorist currently spending 6,000 baht per month on fuel could reduce that cost by around 4,800 baht by switching to an EV. The savings could then be redirected towards monthly instalments, making the transition financially viable for many consumers in the current economic climate.

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Python found coiled around Buddha statue in Nakhon Nayok

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21 March 2026, 13:30

Python found coiled around Buddha statue in Nakhon Nayok

NAKHON NAYOK — 21 March 2026, A three-metre python was safely removed after it was found coiled around the head of a Buddha statue inside a temple hall, local rescue workers said.

The incident occurred at about 10:30 at the viharn of Luang Pho Phra Phuttha Samrit Sitthichok in Mueang district, after the site’s caretaker alerted authorities.

Rescue teams responding to the call found the large python, weighing around 10 kilogrammes, wrapped around the head of the statue, which has been enshrined in the hall since 1989.

Using climbing equipment, rescuers accessed the back of the statue and carefully secured the snake by the head before gradually uncoiling it. The python was then placed in a sack and later released back into a natural habitat.

The caretaker, who discovered the snake while cleaning the temple grounds in the morning, said he was startled by the sight and immediately informed the abbot before contacting rescue services.

No injuries were reported.

16 foreign women arrested in Sukhumvit prostitution crackdown

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Khaosod English

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21 March 2026, 11:46

16 foreign women arrested in Sukhumvit prostitution crackdown

BANGKOK — 20 March 2026, Police and social development officials have arrested 16 foreign women accused of soliciting prostitution in a crackdown in Bangkok’s Sukhumvit area, authorities said.

The operation took place at about 20:30 in Sukhumvit Soi 4, Khlong Toei district, following complaints from foreign tourists and reports on social media.

Officers from Lumpini Police Station, together with investigation units, Metropolitan Police Bureau teams, immigration officers and officials from the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security, conducted surveillance before moving in to make arrests.

Authorities said 16 suspects were detained, comprising 10 Tanzanian nationals, five Kenyan nationals and one Vietnamese national.

They were charged under Section 5 of the Prevention and Suppression of Prostitution Act for soliciting or approaching individuals in public places for the purpose of prostitution in a manner deemed open and causing public nuisance.

Officials from the Department of Women’s Affairs and Family Development will impose administrative fines before transferring the suspects to Immigration Bureau officers. Their visas will be revoked and they will be deported under Section 12(8) of the Immigration Act.

All suspects have been sent to the Immigration Bureau headquarters in Suan Phlu for further legal proceedings.

Chinese scam gang posing as police arrested

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Khaosod English

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21 March 2026, 10:38

Chinese scam gang posing as police arrested

CHACHOENGSAO — 16 March 2026, Police have arrested members of a Chinese-led scam network accused of impersonating officers to extort millions of baht from victims, following a swift investigation by provincial detectives.

Officers from the Investigation Division of Chachoengsao Provincial Police arrested Mr. Sun, a Chinese national, at a hotel in Bangkok’s Huai Khwang district. Authorities seized 5,484,200 baht in cash, three land title deeds and two vehicles for further examination.

The arrests followed a complaint filed by a victim who said he had been contacted by a caller posing as a police officer. The suspect allegedly claimed the victim was linked to a money laundering case and demanded that his funds be checked.

After a phone conversation lasting more than six hours, the victim withdrew 1,826,800 baht in cash and handed it over to a courier sent by the gang. He was later persuaded to transfer an additional 34,000 baht before realising he had been defrauded and reporting the incident to police.

Investigators traced the operation through CCTV footage and arrested a second suspect, identified as a courier responsible for collecting cash from victims and delivering it to Mr Sun.

Police said both suspects confessed to involvement in the scam, which caused losses of at least 1.8 million baht in this case.

They face charges including fraud by impersonation and entering false information into a computer system in a manner likely to cause damage to others.

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