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  • A historic win: Opal becomes Thailand’s first Miss World

    Thailand has made pageant history after 25 year old Suchata Chuangsri, known as Opal, was crowned Miss World 2025—the first Thai woman to win the global title in 74 years.   View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Miss World (@missworld) The 72nd Miss World grand finale was held on May 31 …

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    A historic win: Opal becomes Thailand’s first Miss World
    A historic win: Opal becomes Thailand’s first Miss WorldLegacy
    A historic win: Opal becomes Thailand’s first Miss World

    Thailand has made pageant history after 25 year old Suchata Chuangsri, known as Opal, was crowned Miss World 2025—the first Thai woman to win the global title in 74 years.

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by Miss World (@missworld)

    The 72nd Miss World grand finale was held on May 31 at the HITEX Convention Centre in Hyderabad, Telangana, India. The event featured 108 contestants from across the globe and concluded a month-long festival of cultural exchange and community-driven challenges.

    Opal began her campaign with a strong performance, winning the Multimedia Challenge to enter the top 40. She progressed to the top 20, marking Thailand’s deepest run in the pageant since 2018, and later joined the final eight, alongside representatives from Brazil, Martinique, Ethiopia, Namibia, Poland, Ukraine, and the Philippines.

    She also claimed the Continental Queen of Asia and Oceania title after a decisive Q&A round against the contestant from the Philippines, one of the favourites in the region. Her articulate final response helped secure her spot in the top four and ultimately the Miss World crown.

    A historic win: Opal becomes Thailand’s first Miss World | News by Thaiger
    Miss World 2025 Continental Winners

    The title was passed on by Krystyna Pyszková of Czechia, Miss World 2024, in a glittering ceremony co-hosted by Miss World 2016 Stephanie del Valle and Indian presenter Sachiin Kumbhar. The evening also featured live performances by Bollywood stars Jacqueline Fernandez and Ishaan Khatter.

    A historic win: Opal becomes Thailand’s first Miss World | News by Thaiger
    Miss World Pageant lineup (AP Photo/Mahesh Kumar A.)

    Ethiopia’s Hasset Dereje was named 1st runner-up, followed by Poland’s Maja Klajda and Martinique’s Aurélie Joachim.

    The pageant highlighted advocacy and purpose-driven leadership, with contestants participating in initiatives across Telangana throughout the month. The Miss World Humanitarian Award was presented to actor Sonu Sood, and philanthropist Sudha Reddy was named Global Ambassador for Beauty With a Purpose.

    In her first speech as Miss World, Opal said,

     “This moment is not just a personal victory, it is a shared dream of every young girl who wants to be seen, heard, and create change. I am honoured to represent this legacy and use my time as Miss World to make a real difference.”

    The event was streamed live on SonyLIV in India and broadcast globally on watchmissworld.com.

    The story A historic win: Opal becomes Thailand’s first Miss World as seen on Thaiger News.

    31 May 31 2025
    Hot News
    https://thethaiger.com/?p=906340
  • Rawai restaurant owner fumes after tourist poos outside

    A Rawai restaurant owner is fed up with cleaning up faeces after catching tourists using his property as an open toilet—now he’s demanding action from local authorities. The owner of a popular floating restaurant in Rawai, Phuket, has called on local authorities to install more public toilets for tourists after a shocking incident involving a …

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    Rawai restaurant owner fumes after tourist poos outside
    Rawai restaurant owner fumes after tourist poos outsideLegacy
    Rawai restaurant owner fumes after tourist poos outside

    A Rawai restaurant owner is fed up with cleaning up faeces after catching tourists using his property as an open toilet—now he’s demanding action from local authorities.

    The owner of a popular floating restaurant in Rawai, Phuket, has called on local authorities to install more public toilets for tourists after a shocking incident involving a foreign visitor defecating outside his restaurant.

    Pannatat Asawapitakchon took to social media to share the unpleasant experience, which has since gone viral and stirred widespread support. He described witnessing a female tourist relieving herself next to his closed restaurant on the night of May 22.

    “At first, she didn’t accept responsibility,” Pannatat told Khaosod English. “But after talking for a while, she went to clean the spot where she had defecated. It wasn’t clean enough, so I had to clean it again myself.”

    Rawai restaurant owner fumes after tourist poos outside | News by Thaiger
    Photo courtesy of KhaoSod English

    Pannatat’s frustration wasn’t just about the incident but the lack of basic infrastructure in the popular Rawai Beach area. He urged the relevant agencies to step up and address what he called a “small problem” before it becomes a bigger embarrassment.

    “I want to ask the relevant agencies about public restrooms—I’d like them to build restrooms in the Rawai Beach area,” he said.

    In his now-viral post, he noted that his restaurant’s toilets are available for use during opening hours, even for non-customers. But when the restaurant is closed, options are limited—forcing some tourists to resort to inappropriate alternatives.

    “What happened at my restaurant shows we’re not ready to efficiently accommodate tourists,” he wrote. “I don’t know if other business operators have experienced this.”

    The post struck a chord with both locals and fellow business owners, many of whom echoed the need for proper facilities in high-traffic tourist zones, reported Malay Mail.

    Pannatat said with a grim outlook: “I ask those involved to help solve this small problem. It’s not urgent, but I’m raising the issue for future improvements. In the meantime, I’ll probably have to keep cleaning up urine and faeces myself.”

    With Phuket’s tourist numbers climbing again, calls for better sanitation infrastructure are growing louder—especially from those left holding the mop.

    The story Rawai restaurant owner fumes after tourist poos outside as seen on Thaiger News.

    31 May 31 2025
    Phuket News
    https://thethaiger.com/?p=906319
  • Phuket immigration boss hits back at UK drug claims

    A British tourist’s mother claims he was set up by Phuket airport officials with drugs planted in his passport—but Thailand’s immigration chief says her story doesn’t add up. Phuket Airport Immigration Chief Police Colonel Rasarin Thiraphatthanakun has strongly denied explosive claims made in the British press that her officers planted cocaine on a British tourist …

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    Phuket immigration boss hits back at UK drug claims
    Phuket immigration boss hits back at UK drug claimsLegacy
    Phuket immigration boss hits back at UK drug claims

    A British tourist’s mother claims he was set up by Phuket airport officials with drugs planted in his passport—but Thailand’s immigration chief says her story doesn’t add up.

    Phuket Airport Immigration Chief Police Colonel Rasarin Thiraphatthanakun has strongly denied explosive claims made in the British press that her officers planted cocaine on a British tourist arriving in Thailand.

    The allegations, splashed across outlets including The Daily Mirror, Daily Mail, and Daily Record, centre around 29 year old Jamie Louis Swain from Stevenage, Hertfordshire in the UK, who was arrested in May last year at Phuket International Airport. Thai officials reportedly found 0.42 grammes of cocaine inside his passport.

    Swain’s 57 year old mother, Michelle Swain insists her son was framed, calling the arrest a “set-up.” She told MailOnline, “To get through two airports and then suddenly this bag appears… I just find it very strange.”

    Phuket immigration boss hits back at UK drug claims | News by Thaiger

    The British man was later fined 50,000 baht and deported in August, avoiding what could have been a 20-year prison sentence under Thailand’s Narcotics Act. His mother, who flew to Phuket the day Swain was arrested, said he was held in a cell for two days without food or water.

    “It could happen to any young boys going out there,” she warned. “It can ruin people’s lives.”

    But Phuket’s top immigration officer isn’t having it. Speaking to The Phuket News, Pol. Col. Rasarin refuted the accusations, stating, “We want to confirm our innocence here. We don’t have any [wrongdoing]. And if you have any doubts, we can check the cameras. They’re always on.”

    Phuket immigration boss hits back at UK drug claims | News by Thaiger

    Phuket immigration boss hits back at UK drug claims | News by Thaiger

    Rasarin explained that while the incident happened before she took up her post in March this year, she trusts the procedures in place.

    “At that time, we would find many people who used drugs and forgot them in their passports,” she said.

    The immigration chief emphasised that airport officers go through security scanners before each shift to prevent any smuggling.

    “Every officer has to go through the scanner. We can’t carry drugs and hold them on our person.”

    CCTV footage is available in disputed cases, she added, and multiple agencies—including Airports of Thailand and Phuket Immigration—witness such searches, reported The Phuket News.

    “When they went home, they might have cried to their mothers and said something different,” Rasarin said. “But our staff were just doing their job. We were damaged by being accused of framing tourists.”

    The story Phuket immigration boss hits back at UK drug claims as seen on Thaiger News.

    31 May 31 2025
    Crime News
    https://thethaiger.com/?p=906309
  • Dugong baby boom? Rare sea creatures spotted off Krabi coast

    Krabi’s crystal waters have just delivered a marine miracle—two rare dugongs and a gang of green turtles have been spotted gliding through the waves, sparking hopes of a biodiversity comeback in the Andaman Sea. Park officials in Krabi are celebrating a major boost in marine biodiversity after spotting two new dugongs and a group of …

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    Dugong baby boom? Rare sea creatures spotted off Krabi coast
    Dugong baby boom? Rare sea creatures spotted off Krabi coastLegacy
    Dugong baby boom? Rare sea creatures spotted off Krabi coast

    Krabi’s crystal waters have just delivered a marine miracle—two rare dugongs and a gang of green turtles have been spotted gliding through the waves, sparking hopes of a biodiversity comeback in the Andaman Sea.

    Park officials in Krabi are celebrating a major boost in marine biodiversity after spotting two new dugongs and a group of green turtles near Ao Nammao in Mueang district.

    According to Saegsuree Songthong, chief of Nopparat Thara–Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park, the sightings came during a recent survey of rare and endangered species. The survey was conducted with the help of a drone, giving researchers an aerial view of the shallow coastal waters.

    The footage revealed three dugongs, including one previously known to the area. But the real surprise? Two newcomers, believed to be a mother and her calf, peacefully feeding on the abundant seagrass—a favourite diet of the shy sea mammals.

    “The adult appears to be about 3.5 metres long and 2.5 metres wide. The calf is around a metre smaller. Both seem to be in good health.”

    Dugong baby boom? Rare sea creatures spotted off Krabi coast | News by Thaiger
    Photo courtesy of InThailand.Travel

    Even more exciting was the sighting of nine green turtles—the first-ever recorded presence of the species in the region. Most are believed to be mature adults, likely over 10 years old.

    “These sightings are hugely encouraging,” Saegsuree said. “They signal that the local marine environment is thriving again.”

    The presence of these rare species is being attributed to favourable weather conditions and plentiful food sources, particularly seagrass beds that flourish in the area. Local marine biologists and conservationists see the sightings as a positive indicator that long-term preservation efforts are beginning to pay off.

    Residents and park officials alike are buzzing with excitement. The dugongs, often called “sea cows,” and the turtles are considered important ecological indicators, meaning their return reflects an overall improvement in water quality and marine health, reported Bangkok Post.

    With drone surveys continuing and conservation efforts ramping up, Krabi may soon become a new hotspot for endangered marine life.

    The story Dugong baby boom? Rare sea creatures spotted off Krabi coast as seen on Thaiger News.

    31 May 31 2025
    Environment News
    https://thethaiger.com/?p=906167
  • Nestlé sues ex-partners over Nescafé trademark breach

    Nestlé has initiated legal action against former business partners over the alleged infringement of the Nescafé trademark. The company is seeking 577 million baht in damages from Prayudh Mahagitsiri and Chalermchai Mahagitsiri, as stated in a company release dated May 30 (yesterday). The claim pertains to losses caused by an eight-day suspension of Nescafé sales …

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    Nestlé sues ex-partners over Nescafé trademark breach
    Nestlé sues ex-partners over Nescafé trademark breachLegacy
    Nestlé sues ex-partners over Nescafé trademark breach

    Nestlé has initiated legal action against former business partners over the alleged infringement of the Nescafé trademark.

    The company is seeking 577 million baht in damages from Prayudh Mahagitsiri and Chalermchai Mahagitsiri, as stated in a company release dated May 30 (yesterday).

    The claim pertains to losses caused by an eight-day suspension of Nescafé sales after the Minburi Civil Court issued an emergency injunction on April 3. This order temporarily halted Nestlé from producing, outsourcing, distributing, or importing instant coffee products under the Nescafé brand in Thailand.

    Later April, the Central Intellectual Property and International Trade Court confirmed that Nestlé (Thai) Ltd holds exclusive rights to the “Nescafé” and “เนสกาแฟ” trademarks within Thailand.

    Nestlé sues ex-partners over Nescafé trademark breach | News by Thaiger
    Photo courtesy of Nestle Professional

    The Central Intellectual Property and International Trade Court hosted a mediation session on Wednesday, May 28 concerning the lawsuit against the Mahagitsiri family for purported trademark infringement. Although representatives from both parties attended, no settlement was reached.

    The court has scheduled the trial for June 9 to address the issues requiring resolution.

    Nestlé previously petitioned the Southern Bangkok Civil Court on March 14 to dissolve Quality Coffee Product Ltd (QCP), a joint venture equally owned with the Mahagitsiri family, including Prayudh and Chalermchai. This petition aimed to allow shareholders to retrieve their shares and reinvest independently due to disagreements over QCP’s future direction.

    Furthermore, Nestlé requested the court appoint an administrator to manage QCP’s financial commitments and safeguard its assets pending a decision on the company’s dissolution.

    Nestlé sues ex-partners over Nescafé trademark breach | News by Thaiger
    Photo courtesy of Shutterstock

    The Southern Bangkok Civil Court completed the examination of three plaintiff witnesses on May 19 and scheduled the examination of defendant witnesses for June 26.

    Since Nescafé sales resumed in April, Ekkapong Chokchaiwitut, chief executive of Mother Marketing Plc, reported that sales have returned to normal levels at Mother Supermarket and Mother Marché in southern Thailand, despite an overall market slowdown linked to low tourism, reported Bangkok Post.

    Milin Veraratanaroj, chairman of Tang Ngee Soon Superstore, a leading traditional wholesale chain in Udon Thani, noted that the quick restocking of Nescafé products prevented significant shifts to competing brands. He mentioned that Nestlé Thailand might have imported some Nescafé products from countries like Vietnam last year in anticipation of QCP’s closure.

    Regarding the ongoing legal matter, Milin believes Nestlé may limit the distribution or import of large product quantities until the legal proceedings are resolved.

    The story Nestlé sues ex-partners over Nescafé trademark breach as seen on Thaiger News.

    31 May 31 2025
    Business News
    https://thethaiger.com/?p=906179
  • Tiger selfie turns savage: Indian tourist mauled in Phuket (video)

    A dream holiday snap turned into a nightmare for one tourist in Phuket after a tiger lashed out during a selfie stunt—leaving social media stunned and raising serious questions about animal welfare at popular tourist attractions. An Indian tourist suffered minor injuries after being attacked by a tiger at Tiger Kingdom in Phuket. The man, …

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    Tiger selfie turns savage: Indian tourist mauled in Phuket (video)
    Tiger selfie turns savage: Indian tourist mauled in Phuket (video)Legacy
    Tiger selfie turns savage: Indian tourist mauled in Phuket (video)

    A dream holiday snap turned into a nightmare for one tourist in Phuket after a tiger lashed out during a selfie stunt—leaving social media stunned and raising serious questions about animal welfare at popular tourist attractions.

    An Indian tourist suffered minor injuries after being attacked by a tiger at Tiger Kingdom in Phuket. The man, whose identity has not been released, was attempting to take a selfie with the big cat when the incident occurred.

    The shocking moment was captured on video and quickly went viral after being posted to social media platform X (formerly Twitter). The 25-second clip shows the man walking beside the tiger before crouching to snap a picture. A trainer nearby can be seen tapping the animal with a stick, attempting to coax it into position.

    But the tiger had other ideas. It suddenly turned aggressive and lunged at the man, who let out a chilling scream as the animal swiped at him.

    Tiger selfie turns savage: Indian tourist mauled in Phuket (video) | News by Thaiger

    “Yes, apparently, minor injuries,” said the original poster in response to concerned viewers asking about the tourist’s condition.

    One commenter pointed out that tigers typically dislike being touched on their lower backs, especially by strangers. “This man was petting the tiger continuously in that area. The final straw was when he cupped it for a photo,” the user explained.

    Tiger selfie turns savage: Indian tourist mauled in Phuket (video) | News by Thaiger

    Others slammed the incident as a clear example of poor safety standards and unethical animal treatment.

    “This video exposes a dangerous trend,” one commenter wrote. “Tourists are being lured into risky photo-ops with tigers across Thailand. This needs to stop before someone dies.”

    Critics have long raised concerns about tiger attractions in Thailand, accusing them of exploiting animals for profit and ignoring natural behavioural cues. The viral video has reignited those fears, prompting renewed calls for stricter regulations and better enforcement of animal welfare laws, reported NDTV.

    Tiger Kingdom has not released an official statement at the time of writing.

    As the clip continues to circulate online, many are now warning travellers to think twice before getting too close to wild animals for the sake of a selfie.

    The story Tiger selfie turns savage: Indian tourist mauled in Phuket (video) as seen on Thaiger News.

    31 May 31 2025
    Phuket News
    https://thethaiger.com/?p=906289
  • Krungsri forecast for Thailand economic growth cut to 2.1%

    Research by Krungsri has revised Thailand’s economic growth forecast for 2025 to 2.1%, down from an earlier estimate of 2.7%. This adjustment comes amid layered risks, including US trade policy uncertainties and domestic pressures. The government is advised to exercise caution in policy-making while responding effectively to rapidly evolving situations. Pimnara Hirankasi, head of economic …

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    Krungsri forecast for Thailand economic growth cut to 2.1%
    Krungsri forecast for Thailand economic growth cut to 2.1%Legacy
    Krungsri forecast for Thailand economic growth cut to 2.1%

    Research by Krungsri has revised Thailand’s economic growth forecast for 2025 to 2.1%, down from an earlier estimate of 2.7%.

    This adjustment comes amid layered risks, including US trade policy uncertainties and domestic pressures. The government is advised to exercise caution in policy-making while responding effectively to rapidly evolving situations.

    Pimnara Hirankasi, head of economic research and executive researcher at Bank of Ayudhya Public Company Limited, highlighted mounting pressures on Thailand’s economy from both domestic and international factors. A significant concern is the US’s variable and uncertain import tariff adjustments.

    Additionally, internal vulnerabilities such as structural issues, economic policy uncertainties, and a sluggish recovery in tourism compound these challenges, potentially embedding risks within Thailand’s economic system.

    Krungsri forecast for Thailand economic growth cut to 2.1% | News by Thaiger
    Photo courtesy of ประชาชาติธุรกิจ

    Krungsri’s revision is driven by three key factors: the impact of the late-March earthquake, weakening tourism momentum due to Chinese tourists’ safety concerns, and increased risks from US trade policy uncertainties. These elements create a negative feedback loop, affecting both consumer and investment confidence.

    Despite these issues, Krungsri suggests that government spending and economic stimulus measures, alongside a gradual tourism recovery, will drive Thailand’s economy in 2025.

    Tourist numbers are expected to rise from 35.5 million to 36.5 million. However, international trade remains risky due to US trade policy uncertainties. On Wednesday, May 28, the US trade court suspended counteractive tariffs, but President Trump might still impose tariffs under other laws, like the 1974 Trade Act, which could levy up to 15% import duty on various countries, including Thailand.

    Krungsri forecast for Thailand economic growth cut to 2.1% | News by Thaiger
    Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post

    Due to these uncertainties, Thai exports could face negative impacts in the year’s latter half, with an assumption of a 10% US import tariff affecting primary trading partners, including Thailand. Export growth could slow to 2% after a strong double-digit increase in the first quarter.

    Private consumption is projected to slow to 2.6%, pressured by weakening consumer confidence, sluggish agricultural income, high household debt, and uncertainties over US tariffs and slow tourism recovery impacting employment and income.

    Investment prospects remain mixed. While government investment might grow by 5.8%, it may not stimulate private investment, which could shrink by 0.5%. Slow tourism recovery could hinder service sector investments, adding to the risk of continued private investment contraction. US customs policy uncertainties further dampen confidence, prompting businesses to delay investments pending clarity on policy interest rates.

    Krungsri forecast for Thailand economic growth cut to 2.1% | News by Thaiger
    Photo courtesy of NBT World

    With international trade risks, Thailand’s economy is likely to slow in the year’s second half, with inflation pressures remaining low. This scenario suggests the Bank of Thailand might further ease monetary policy to support recovery, potentially reducing policy interest rates by one or two more times this year.

    Looking ahead, Thailand’s economy faces several significant challenges: the high-risk US import policy, international political tensions, fragile geopolitical situations, domestic economic policy uncertainties amid fiscal constraints, and structural issues like declining manufacturing competitiveness, high household debt, and rapid ageing population, reported KhaoSod.

    Pimnara warned that while external risks are globally similar, internal pressures might lead to more severe impacts on Thailand’s economy than in other countries. Hence, cautious policy-making and timely, efficient responses are crucial.

    The story Krungsri forecast for Thailand economic growth cut to 2.1% as seen on Thaiger News.

    31 May 31 2025
    Business News
    https://thethaiger.com/?p=906153
  • Pita Limjaroenrat’s political return sparks hope for ‘Orange Camp’

    Pita Limjaroenrat’s brief reappearance in the political arena has reignited optimism among supporters of the “Orange Camp,” following his reaffirmed ambition to become Thailand’s prime minister in nine years. His involvement in politics was curtailed due to the dissolution of the Move Forward Party (MFP). In August 2024, the Constitutional Court found the party and …

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    Pita Limjaroenrat’s political return sparks hope for ‘Orange Camp’
    Pita Limjaroenrat’s political return sparks hope for ‘Orange Camp’Legacy
    Pita Limjaroenrat’s political return sparks hope for ‘Orange Camp’

    Pita Limjaroenrat’s brief reappearance in the political arena has reignited optimism among supporters of the “Orange Camp,” following his reaffirmed ambition to become Thailand’s prime minister in nine years. His involvement in politics was curtailed due to the dissolution of the Move Forward Party (MFP).

    In August 2024, the Constitutional Court found the party and its executives, including Pita, guilty of attempting to amend the lèse majesté law, equating it to an attempt to overthrow the constitutional monarchy. Consequently, the court ordered the dissolution of the MFP and imposed a 10-year political ban on Pita and other executives.

    Shortly after, the People’s Party (PP) was formed as a successor, with MPs transitioning to the new party under the leadership of Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut. However, 44 former MFP MPs face possible life bans due to a Supreme Court probe into their ethical conduct regarding the lèse majesté law stance.

    Pita Limjaroenrat's political return sparks hope for 'Orange Camp' | News by Thaiger
    Photo of Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut courtesy of The Standard

    A political observer noted that Pita’s future political aspirations hinge on the Supreme Court’s ruling. An adverse decision could extend his ban from 10 years to life. Pita was close to becoming prime minister after the MFP’s success in the 2023 general election, securing 150 of the 500 available seats. The party attempted to form a coalition but failed due to its firm stance on amending Section 112 of the Criminal Code, leading to the rejection of Pita’s prime ministerial bid by the majority of senators.

    Following this, the Pheu Thai Party succeeded in forming a government, relegating the MFP to the opposition. Pita’s active political role began to wane, although he remained involved in campaigning for the MFP and later the PP in local elections.

    Analysts have compared Pita to Natthaphong, noting Pita’s charisma and leadership qualities, while Natthaphong maintains a lower profile. Pita continues to attract media attention during PP campaigns, where his speeches energise the audience.

    Earlier this month, Pita attended a rally in Khon Kaen to support Benjamaporn Srilabutr, the PP’s candidate for provincial municipal mayor. He expressed steadfast support for the PP and urged voters to resist vote-buying.

    “I’m on a journey up and down the country to cultivate knowledge. In nine years, I shall return and be the best prime minister this country has ever had.”

    A political source warned that the Supreme Court’s ruling on the MFP’s lese majeste amendment is not the only concern for Pita. The potential return of Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit, founder of the Future Forward Party (FFP), could challenge Pita’s future candidacy for prime minister, reported Bangkok Post.

    Thanathorn, who founded the FFP in 2018, was banned from politics for 10 years after the party’s dissolution in 2020. The source suggested Thanathorn may aim to lead the PP after his ban, potentially leaving no room for Pita.

    The story Pita Limjaroenrat’s political return sparks hope for ‘Orange Camp’ as seen on Thaiger News.

    31 May 31 2025
    Politics News
    https://thethaiger.com/?p=906194
  • Pattaya firm hits back at ‘grey Chinese’ money claims

    Baidi International (Pattaya) Real Estate Asset Management Co., Ltd. has firmly denied any links to illegal Chinese capital, following swirling allegations and a government inspection that cast a shadow over the firm’s operations. At a press conference held at its office on Soi Department of Lands, Village 10, company director Kham Sae Yang, flanked by …

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    Pattaya firm hits back at ‘grey Chinese’ money claims
    Pattaya firm hits back at ‘grey Chinese’ money claimsLegacy
    Pattaya firm hits back at ‘grey Chinese’ money claims

    Baidi International (Pattaya) Real Estate Asset Management Co., Ltd. has firmly denied any links to illegal Chinese capital, following swirling allegations and a government inspection that cast a shadow over the firm’s operations.

    At a press conference held at its office on Soi Department of Lands, Village 10, company director Kham Sae Yang, flanked by company lawyer Theerathorn Morakotjinda and legal consultant Kanokorn Sawatram, pushed back hard against claims that Baidi International was a nominee company for foreign interests.

    “We categorically deny any foreign control. All shareholders and directors are 100% Thai,” Kham declared.

    Pattaya firm hits back at ‘grey Chinese’ money claims | News by Thaiger

    The backlash stems from recent rumours associating Baidi with so-called “grey Chinese” capital—a term often used to describe money from questionable sources. Kham explained the confusion may have originated from Chinese buyers using Thai bank accounts to transfer payments for properties.

    “These transactions follow legal banking protocols. We don’t have the authority to investigate the source,” he added.

    Pattaya firm hits back at ‘grey Chinese’ money claims | News by Thaiger

    Pattaya firm hits back at ‘grey Chinese’ money claims | News by Thaiger

    Of the company’s 86 employees, 76 are Thai nationals. The remaining 10% are foreigners working legally in Thailand. Baidi acknowledged that three Chinese nationals were present during the inspection without valid work permits, but claimed they had already resigned and were only on-site to sort out personal WeChat matters.

    Baidi insisted it complies fully with Thai law and expressed frustration over the damage done to its reputation. The firm says the allegations have shaken customer confidence and caused a dip in business.

    As a result, Baidi plans to sue media outlets and social media pages responsible for spreading what it calls false and defamatory information.

    Pattaya firm hits back at ‘grey Chinese’ money claims | News by Thaiger

    “Our business includes cleaning services for condos and housing estates, and we’re a licensed real estate brokerage,” said Kham. “All transactions go through our official accounts, with proper deductions for taxes and commissions.”

    The company also provides after-sales services including maintenance and cleaning, with a client base stretching beyond Thailand, reported The Pattaya News.

    “We are a legitimate Thai company. We’ve done nothing wrong, and we’re cooperating fully with authorities,” Kham affirmed, adding that Baidi is planning to expand to new locations soon.

    The story Pattaya firm hits back at ‘grey Chinese’ money claims as seen on Thaiger News.

    31 May 31 2025
    Crime News
    https://thethaiger.com/?p=906253
  • Activist demands court ruling over energy minister appointment

    Thailand’s newest prime minister is already under legal fire, with a political activist demanding the Constitutional Court weigh in on her first big Cabinet move. Political activist Sonthiya Sawasdee has called on the Office of the Attorney General (OAG) to seek a Constitutional Court ruling over Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s appointment of Pirapan Salirathavibhaga as …

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    Activist demands court ruling over energy minister appointment
    Activist demands court ruling over energy minister appointmentLegacy
    Activist demands court ruling over energy minister appointment

    Thailand’s newest prime minister is already under legal fire, with a political activist demanding the Constitutional Court weigh in on her first big Cabinet move.

    Political activist Sonthiya Sawasdee has called on the Office of the Attorney General (OAG) to seek a Constitutional Court ruling over Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s appointment of Pirapan Salirathavibhaga as deputy prime minister and energy minister.

    In a formal petition, Sonthiya claimed the appointments may violate constitutional provisions and urged the attorney general to refer the case for judicial review. He believes both the appointment process and Pirapan’s qualifications warrant scrutiny.

    “This is about protecting the rule of law,” Sonthiya stated, warning that ignoring potential constitutional breaches could set a dangerous precedent.

    Activist demands court ruling over energy minister appointment | News by Thaiger
    Photo of Sonthiya Sawasdee courtesy of Bangkok Post

    The petition also demands a review of Pirapan’s own actions, alleging possible violations of the constitution, 2018 organic law governing MP elections, and serious ethical misconduct.

    This latest complaint follows Sonthiya’s earlier request to the Election Commission to investigate whether Pirapan’s alleged shareholdings in four private companies breach constitutional guidelines and the organic law on MPs. Thai law prohibits sitting MPs or ministers from holding shares in companies that may present conflicts of interest.

    Sonthiya also voiced frustration over the lack of response from government officials. He previously submitted petitions directly to the prime minister on May 6 and May 23, asking for clarity on Pirapan’s status.

    “The complaint centre confirmed receipt and said they passed it to the prime minister’s secretary-general,” he said. “But nearly 30 days have gone by, and I haven’t received any response or confirmation of a review.”

    Sonthiya insisted his actions are not politically motivated but stem from a commitment to upholding transparency and legal integrity within the highest levels of government, reported Bangkok Post.

    The issue has stirred speculation within political circles, as Pirapan’s appointment was one of Paetongtarn’s key early decisions after taking office. If found to violate the constitution, the fallout could have serious implications for the government’s credibility.

    The OAG has yet to make a public statement on the matter.

    The story Activist demands court ruling over energy minister appointment as seen on Thaiger News.

    31 May 31 2025
    Politics News
    https://thethaiger.com/?p=906192