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  • Huge Waves, Strong Winds Hit Thai South

    SURAT THANI, Jan 13 (TNA) – Severe storms and unusually high tides have battered Thailand’s southern coastal provinces, causing extensive damage to homes and resorts and disrupting travel, with some areas experiencing the worst maritime conditions in over a decade. While other parts of Thailand are experiencing cool weather, the southern region has been hit […]

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    SURAT THANI, Jan 13 (TNA) – Severe storms and unusually high tides have battered Thailand’s southern coastal provinces, causing extensive damage to homes and resorts and disrupting travel, with some areas experiencing the worst maritime conditions in over a decade.

    While other parts of Thailand are experiencing cool weather, the southern region has been hit by intense weather conditions. Coastal erosion and flooding have been reported in multiple provinces along the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea.

    In Surat Thani province, powerful waves destroyed four resort buildings in Chaiya district, with local staff reporting unprecedented weather conditions. The coastal impact has affected multiple districts including the tourist island of Koh Pha-ngan.

    “This is the worst we’ve seen in over 10 years,” said a local official in Don Sak district, where waves struck during pre-dawn hours, leaving residents little time to secure their belongings. At least four homes and three seaside restaurants suffered damage, with some establishments reporting 80% destruction.

    The governor of Surat Thani has ordered all relevant agencies to assist affected residents and issued warnings for small boats to remain ashore. Larger vessels have been advised to proceed with caution. Ferry and speedboat services have been temporarily suspended.

    In Nakhon Si Thammarat province, rising floodwaters disrupted funeral preparations in Pak Phanang district, forcing the relocation of a coffin. In Tha Sala district, severe coastal erosion threatened seaside properties as waves carved away sections of the beach. Residents reported that over 20 meters of coastline had been lost in just a few hours.

    High waves have also impacted Songkhla province, where homes in the coastal community of Koh Taew were flooded. Residents called for long-term solutions, such as the construction of seawalls. Local officials are assessing the damage and providing emergency assistance. Six districts in Songkhla province have been affected by the storms, forcing local fishermen to suspend operations.

    Further north in Prachuap Khiri Khan province, red flags have been raised along beaches, prohibiting swimming due to high waves. Fishing boats have been advised to stay ashore.

    On the Andaman coast in Krabi province, red flags have also been raised at popular tourist beaches, and boat tours have been temporarily suspended.

    The Southern Meteorological Center has issued a warning for strong monsoon conditions over the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea, forecasting heavy rain and high waves until January 13. -819 (TNA)

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    13 January 13 2025
    English News
    https://tna.mcot.net/?p=1473540
  • PM Instructs Agencies to Urgently Control Forest Fires in Nakhon Ratchasima

    rime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra instructed the Royal Forest Department, Department of National parks Wildlife and Plant Conservation

    The post PM Instructs Agencies to Urgently Control Forest Fires in Nakhon Ratchasima appeared first on สำนักข่าวไทย อสมท.

    BANGKOK, Jan 10 (TNA) — Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra instructed the Royal Forest Department, Department of National parks Wildlife and Plant Conservation and Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation to urgently control the forest fires at Dong Phayayen-Khao Yai Forest Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

    Ms Paetongtarn posted on her social media platform, X, that the forest fires were ignited near Khao Loi area in Pak Chong district’s Phayayen subdistrict of Nakhon Ratchasima. She has already instructed he Royal Forest Department, Department of National parks Wildlife and Plant Conservation, Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation and the agencies concerned to urgently control the fires.

    She said the quick response was aimed to prevent the damages and to take care of the people who lived in the risk areas. She asked the authorities to give her updated reports regularly.

    Ms Paetongtarn said she wished everybody woud be saved and she would like to give moral support to the authorities concerned.(TNA).-813

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    10 January 10 2025
    English News
    https://tna.mcot.net/?p=1472582
  • Government House Opened for Kids on Children’s Day

    The Office of Prime Minister’s Secretary General prepares to celebrate the 2025 Children’s Day on January 11.

    The post Government House Opened for Kids on Children’s Day appeared first on สำนักข่าวไทย อสมท.

    BANGKOK, Jan 10 (TNA) — The Office of Prime Minister’s Secretary General prepares to celebrate the 2025 Children’s Day on January 11.

    The Government House will be opened to welcome children from 8.00am – 3.00pm.

    Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra will chair the opening of Children’s Day at the Government House and will join in various activities to celebrate the event with the participants.

    The children will be given a chance to sit on the Prime Minister’s chair and visit Thai Khu Fah Building, the Prime Minister’s office, and participate in activities honoring His Majesty the King and the Thai monarchs at Bhakdi Bodin Building.

    They will also get to try a role of a news anchor in both Thai and English with the activity “Government Spokesperson…News Jiw (Mini News)” at Naree Smosorn Building.

    The Prime Minister will also have an online meeting via Zoom with youth representatives from regions across the country at the Inner Santi Maitri Building.

    The Prime Minister has given the motto for 2025 Children’s Day as: “Every Opportunity is a Learning Experience, Be Ready to Adapt to the Future of Your Own Choice”. (TNA)

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    10 January 10 2025
    English News
    https://tna.mcot.net/?p=1472483
  • Thailand Welcomes Over 35 Million Visitors in 2024

    Thailand attracted over 35.54 million foreign tourists in 2024, an increase of 26.27% compared to the previous year, according to Deputy Government Spokesperson Sasikarn Wattanachan.

    The post Thailand Welcomes Over 35 Million Visitors in 2024 appeared first on สำนักข่าวไทย อสมท.

    BANGKOK, Jan 10 (TNA) — Thailand attracted over 35.54 million foreign tourists in 2024, an increase of 26.27% compared to the previous year, according to Deputy Government Spokesperson Sasikarn Wattanachan.

    Tourism activities throughout 2024 generated 1.67 trillion baht in revenue, an increase of 34%.

    This data reflects recovery of Thai tourism and effectiveness of the Government’s related measures, including visa exemption; suspension of the TM6 immigration form requirement for land and sea arrivals; and launching of new aviation routes and increase of flight frequencies.

    Top 3 tourists visiting Thailand are from China, Malaysia, and India. Domestic tourism also fared well in 2024, with a total of 198.69 million person-trips, an increase of 7.02%.

    Domestic tourism generated the revenue of 950 billion baht, an increase of 12.03%. Bangkok, Chonburi, and Kanchanaburi remain the popular destinations.

    These accomplishments are the result of an integrated effort between the Government, private sector, and localities, to continuously promote the country’s positive image through various activities and events in a bid to revive the economy and build confidence in the Thai tourism industry.

    The grand year-end event, “Amazing Thailand Countdown 2025” held at ICONSIAM, for instance, boasted a world-class phenomenon with the performance of “Lisa- Lalisa Manoban,” a world-renowned Thai artist.

    The event attracted over 30 million viewers through live broadcasts on various channels, including such international media as CNN, BBC, and Reuters.

    Ministry of Tourism and Sports expected that the event generated over 62 billion Baht in revenue, and would position Thailand among the world’s “Top 5 Countdown Destinations”.

    According to the Deputy Government Spokesperson, the Government continues to push for Thailand to become global tourism destination and hub and promote year-round tourism, while prioritizing tourist safety.

    World-class events and activities, including Thai festivals, concerts or sports competitions, will constantly be organized, and aviation routes to new cities will be established. (TNA)

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    10 January 10 2025
    English News
    https://tna.mcot.net/?p=1472333
  • Morocco Marks Independence Manifesto Anniversary

    Morocco marks the 81st anniversary of its Independence Manifesto, commemorating a pivotal moment in the nation’s struggle against French and Spanish colonial rule. The 1944 manifesto, signed by 66 members of the Moroccan National Movement, demanded complete independence from colonial powers that had divided the country into three occupation zones since 1912, with France controlling […]

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    Morocco marks the 81st anniversary of its Independence Manifesto, commemorating a pivotal moment in the nation’s struggle against French and Spanish colonial rule.

    The 1944 manifesto, signed by 66 members of the Moroccan National Movement, demanded complete independence from colonial powers that had divided the country into three occupation zones since 1912, with France controlling the central region and Spain occupying the northern and southern territories.

    “The Independence Manifesto represented a ground-breaking event in Morocco’s contemporary colonial history,” said Morocco’s Ambassador Abderrahim Rahhaly. “It is more than a document; it is an annual recognition of Moroccans’ common values of patriotism, faith, and loyalty.”

    The historic declaration led to Morocco’s eventual independence in 1956, ending a protectorate system that had placed Tangier, a northern city, under the administration of a 12-region council.

    According to Rahhaly, the manifesto’s spirit continues to influence Morocco’s modern development under King Mohammed VI’s leadership, driving national initiatives for socioeconomic growth and territorial integrity.

    The commemoration events are held across the Kingdom ever January 11, highlighting what officials describe as an enduring commitment to sovereignty and national development that began with the independence movement nearly eight decades ago.

    The post Morocco Marks Independence Manifesto Anniversary appeared first on สำนักข่าวไทย อสมท.

    9 January 09 2025
    English News
    https://tna.mcot.net/?p=1472183
  • Second Leatherback Turtle Nests Thailand

    PHANG-NGA, Jan 9 (TNA) – A second leatherback sea turtle has nested on Koh Phra Thong island in southern Thailand’s Phang Nga province, laying 124 eggs in what officials are calling an encouraging sign for the endangered species. Marine and Coastal Resources Office 6 officials discovered the nest on Thung Dap beach during a routine […]

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    PHANG-NGA, Jan 9 (TNA) – A second leatherback sea turtle has nested on Koh Phra Thong island in southern Thailand’s Phang Nga province, laying 124 eggs in what officials are calling an encouraging sign for the endangered species.

    Marine and Coastal Resources Office 6 officials discovered the nest on Thung Dap beach during a routine patrol. The turtle left distinctive tracks measuring 200 centimeters in width, with a chest width of 98 centimeters. Upon excavation, they found the eggs at a depth of 74 centimeters.

    Of the total eggs laid, 76 were viable while 48 were infertile. Due to the nest’s vulnerable location near sea level and trees, authorities relocated the eggs to a safer location closer to the local community. A temporary protective enclosure was constructed to guard against natural threats.

    “This year’s exciting news isn’t just about having two nests – the timing between layings and the track widths indicate we have two different mother turtles nesting,” said Dr. Kong-kiat Kittiwattanawong, a marine ecosystem specialist.

    Local community members will help monitor the relocated eggs, which are expected to hatch in approximately 55-60 days. The successful nesting event marks a positive development for leatherback conservation efforts in Thailand’s Andaman Sea region. -819 (TNA)

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    9 January 09 2025
    English News
    https://tna.mcot.net/?p=1472165
  • Suspected killer of former Cambodia MP arrested, to be extradited

    BANGKOK, Jan 9 (TNA) – Thai police are awaiting the extradition of a key suspect in the killing of a former Cambodian opposition figure, as authorities prepare for advance witness testimony in the high-profile murder case. Police Colonel Sanong Saengmanee, superintendent of Chanasongkram police station, said investigators have identified two suspects in the killing of […]

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    BANGKOK, Jan 9 (TNA) – Thai police are awaiting the extradition of a key suspect in the killing of a former Cambodian opposition figure, as authorities prepare for advance witness testimony in the high-profile murder case.

    Police Colonel Sanong Saengmanee, superintendent of Chanasongkram police station, said investigators have identified two suspects in the killing of Lim Kimya, 73, a former Cambodian activist who was shot dead near Wat Bowonniwet temple in Bangkok while visiting Thailand with his French wife on January 7.

    The alleged gunman, Ekkarak Paenoi, known as “Sergeant M,” was arrested in Battambang province, Cambodia. The second suspect, identified as Pich Kimsrin, 24, a Cambodian national accused of helping identify the target, remains at large.

    Due to the involvement of foreign witnesses, including the victim’s wife, prosecutors have requested the court to conduct advance witness testimony before they return to their home countries, pending court approval.

    Sources familiar with the matter said “Sergeant M” is currently being interrogated by Cambodia’s internal security authorities in Phnom Penh.

    His extradition to Thailand is likely to be delayed as he faces charges in Cambodia for illegal entry.

    Thai authorities plan to seek his extradition to face charges of premeditated murder once the Cambodian legal proceedings conclude. -819 (TNA)

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    9 January 09 2025
    English News
    https://tna.mcot.net/?p=1472109
  • Ancient Human Skeleton Unearthed in Northeast Thailand

    KHON KAEN, Jan 9 (TNA) – The skeletal remains of an ancient human, believed to be between 2,500 and 1,500 years old, have been discovered in a cassava field in Khon Kaen province, northeastern Thailand, archaeologists said. The discovery was made in Ban Nong Du village, Wiang Kao district, approximately 200 meters from the Dinosaur […]

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    KHON KAEN, Jan 9 (TNA) – The skeletal remains of an ancient human, believed to be between 2,500 and 1,500 years old, have been discovered in a cassava field in Khon Kaen province, northeastern Thailand, archaeologists said.

    The discovery was made in Ban Nong Du village, Wiang Kao district, approximately 200 meters from the Dinosaur Research and Education Center and Museum.

    Local villagers ploughing the field on January 4 uncovered a skull exposed by water erosion, about one meter below the surface. The site is believed to have been an ancient community burial ground near a stream.

     Archaeologists from the Fine Arts Office 8 in Khon Kaen examined the site and found a relatively complete skeleton lying on its side with its arm bent. They excavated the remains for preservation to prevent further deterioration and potential damage from water erosion. Fragments of ancient pottery were also found scattered around the skeleton.

     “Previously, villagers found iron tools resembling small blades, along with red earthenware pottery decorated with cord-marked patterns, typical artifacts from the Iron Age, dating back 2,500-1,500 years,” said Thippawan Wongassapaiboon, a senior archaeologist from the Fine Arts Office 8.

    This indicates that the burial site belonged to prehistoric humans who typically wrapped bodies in reed mats, bamboo mats, or cloth and offered belongings to the deceased.

    The skeleton is believed to be that of a woman who died at around 30-35 years old. This estimation is based on the full eruption of her third molars and the degree of tooth wear. -819 (TNA)

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    9 January 09 2025
    English News
    https://tna.mcot.net/?p=1472037
  • Chinese Grey Capital Groups Expand Operations

    TAK, Jan 9 (TNA) – A Chinese actor’s recent rescue from a criminal compound has exposed the operations of at least three major Chinese grey capital groups operating along the Myanmar border opposite Thailand’s Mae Sot district, running enterprises ranging from casinos to online scams and human trafficking operations. The Shwe Kokko Special Economic Zone, […]

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    TAK, Jan 9 (TNA) – A Chinese actor’s recent rescue from a criminal compound has exposed the operations of at least three major Chinese grey capital groups operating along the Myanmar border opposite Thailand’s Mae Sot district, running enterprises ranging from casinos to online scams and human trafficking operations.

    The Shwe Kokko Special Economic Zone, visible across the Moei River from Thailand’s Tak province, showcases extensive development with high-rise buildings spread across 12,000 acres. This $15 billion Chinese investment project operates under the protection of the Karen Border Guard Force (BGF), led by Colonel Saw Chit Thu, the influential figure of Myawaddy. After years of hosting online gambling and call center operations, the zone has faced international and Myanmar government pressure to legitimize its activities.

    As Shwe Kokko shifted toward legitimate business, another group developed the KK Park project opposite Mae Sot’s Mae Ku subdistrict four years ago. Under the protection of a different BGF faction led by Teng Win, KK Park has emerged as a hub for illegal operations, including international online scams and human trafficking. The recent rescue of Chinese actor Xing Xing from the compound highlighted its notorious activities.

    A third Chinese grey capital group is developing a large-scale project in Myawaddy’s Pha Lu area, opposite Ban Chong Kaeb in Phop Phra district, raising concerns about another emerging criminal center.

    Further south, a third Chinese grey capital group is rapidly developing a large-scale project in Myawaddy’s Pha Lu area, opposite Ban Chong Kaeb in Phop Phra district in Thailand, raising concerns about another potential criminal hub.

    Three additional smaller groups, some relocating from Cambodia, have established operations connecting with these major players. This has transformed Mae Sot from a traditional crossing point for undocumented Myanmar workers into a transit route for both victims and transnational criminals.

    Thai authorities report intercepting various nationalities attempting border crossings, including those from Asia, America, Europe, and South Africa. Despite heightened screening of foreigners entering Mae Sot, many appear to be voluntary participants.

    “We have strict measures in place, but I understand that most people come to work willingly. The restaurants and communities make it like a city, not a rural area. There are casinos, shows, and a large amount of circulating money. Many people want to work there. Going there is like taking a chance,” Pol Gen Thatchai Pitaneelaboot, an inspector-general with the Royal Thai Police.

    While Thai authorities have cut internet cables connecting to these grey zones and increased natural border crossing patrols, concerns remain about Thailand’s vulnerability as a transit point for transnational criminal operations targeting victims worldwide. -819 (TNA)

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    9 January 09 2025
    English News
    https://tna.mcot.net/?p=1471881
  • Prosecutors Indict The Icon Group Executives, Two Celebrities Cleared

    BANGKOK, Jan 8 (TNA) – Public prosecutors indicted 16 executives of The Icon Group while clearing an actor and actress of wrongdoing in a high-profile fraud case. The iCON group, a direct sales company faces accusations of operating a pyramid scheme. Sakkasem Nisaiyok, spokesperson for the Office of the Attorney General (OAG), said the Special […]

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    BANGKOK, Jan 8 (TNA) – Public prosecutors indicted 16 executives of The Icon Group while clearing an actor and actress of wrongdoing in a high-profile fraud case.

    The iCON group, a direct sales company faces accusations of operating a pyramid scheme.

    Sakkasem Nisaiyok, spokesperson for the Office of the Attorney General (OAG), said the Special Case Office’s working group has decided to prosecute The Icon Group and 16 executives on five charges. However, the prosecutors declined to press charges against the actor Yuranant “Sam” Pamornmontri and Pechaya “Min” Wattanamontree.

    For the two cleared suspects, prosecutors will submit a release request to the Criminal Court and forward the case files with their non-prosecution order to the Director-General of the Department of Special Investigation for review.

    Sources report that the prison authorities expect to release them between 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. today. -819 (TNA)

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    8 January 08 2025
    English News
    https://tna.mcot.net/?p=1471624