Category: The Bangkok Post

A Qatari man is facing deportation after a series of unprovoked attacks on six people – including dragging a woman from her wheelchair – during a violent outburst in Hua Hin.

The incident occurred on Sunday evening after the man, a Qatari national, came out of a cannabis shop in the beach town in Prachuap Khiri Khan, according to Hua Hin Today.

Video of the attack has since been widely shared on social media.

Witnesses told Thai media that the incident began inside the cannabis shop, where the man damaged property and attacked another customer before moving outside and assaulting anyone who came near him.

Suchitra Namthong, 20, a nail technician who filmed part of the incident, said she heard the argument from where she was working in the store opposite.

She said the man attacked another person before shouting and turning on a motorcyclist who had arrived to collect his girlfriend.

The man then approached a disabled woman selling flowers from a wheelchair on the street corner. He is seen pulling away her flowers, striking her in the face and dragging her from the wheelchair.

Several people later intervened and managed to restrain the man. Ms Suchitra said about five people were needed because of his large size.

A 32-year-old cannabis shop employee said she was also injured after going downstairs to investigate the noise.

She said the man struck her on the left side of her face as soon as she opened the door. A cyclist who attempted to intervene was also attacked.

She believed the violence followed an argument with another customer, possibly over religion.

Doctors at Hua Hin Hospital said six people were treated for minor injuries.

Hua Hin Police said Abdulla Yousif Ha Al-Harqan, 40, had entered Thailand on a tourist visa valid until Sept 22, 2026. He is facing a charge of assault.

Police on Monday mediated talks between the victims and their attacker, who reportedly agreed to pay a total of 100,000 baht in compensation to the victims, including 25,000 baht to the woman in the wheelchair.

The man was expected to have his visa revoked and to be deported following the completion of the legal process.

Unsold residential inventory is expected to exceed 610,000 units by year-end as a growing number of second-hand homes enter the market, while demand remains constrained by weak purchasing power, according to Kasikorn Research Center (K-Research).

The research house said the housing market continues to face an imbalance between supply and demand, with accumulated inventories rising despite a sluggish recovery in home purchases.

Residential inventory reached 590,000 units nationwide in the first quarter of 2026, up 7.2% year-on-year, driven by a sharp increase in resale homes offered for sale.

Second-hand housing listings climbed 34.2% to 240,000 units as individual owners, financial institutions and asset management companies accelerated property disposals.

In contrast, unsold new homes held by developers declined 6% year-on-year to around 350,000 units after developers curtailed new project launches amid slowing market conditions.

Although new home inventory eased slightly, it remained elevated as developers were cautious and prioritised clearing stock over expanding supply, noted K-Research.

Accumulated residential inventory is now almost twice the country’s average annual housing transfer volume, intensifying competition across the market.

The widening supply overhang has strengthened buyers’ bargaining power, while putting greater pressure on developers’ sales strategies, pricing and financial performance, said the think tank.

Greater Bangkok accounted for 52% of nationwide unsold inventory, equivalent to more than 310,000 units. Other major economic provinces, including Chon Buri, Phuket and Chiang Mai, also recorded rising inventories of both new and resale housing.

Homes priced at less than 3 million baht represented more than 60% of total inventory, or about 355,000 units, highlighting a persistent glut in the mass market segment.

However, the fastest growth was for homes priced more than 10 million baht, where accumulated inventory jumped 48% year-on-year to 46,000 units.

The increase was driven largely by resale properties rather than new launches, suggesting affluent owners are bringing more assets to market, said K-Research.

The trend could narrow investment opportunities for developers that have increasingly shifted towards premium housing to avoid intense competition in lower-priced segments.

The think tank said the rapid expansion of luxury resale supply may intensify competition, even in higher-end markets that previously appeared more resilient.

The research house expects nationwide residential inventory to rise 4.5% this year to more than 610,000 units as second-hand listings continue increasing, while new project launches remain subdued.

Although the government extended transfer and mortgage fee reductions for homes priced up to 7 million baht, the measure is unlikely to fully offset weak consumer confidence and fragile purchasing power.

K-Research expects nationwide housing transfers to increase by 2.1% in 2026, despite a 13.4% year-on-year rise during the first four months, reflecting expectations that market momentum will soften in the second half.

The growing gap between inventory and demand suggests Thailand’s residential market is entering a more buyer-friendly phase, with developers likely to remain cautious on new investment until excess supply is gradually absorbed, noted the research house.

A controversy over gelato shop Parameter highlights the risks of controversial marketing while also drawing attention to other gelato brands, says a marketing lecturer.

Parameter, a gelato shop at Siam Paragon mall, has become the target of online mockery after promoting its gelato as “ultra-smooth” and requesting customers not to take a picture of its products.

The shop claimed that photographing the gelato would compromise its texture due to changes in temperature.

Meanwhile, Kris Srepoomseth, a Thai actor and the outlet’s chef, posted a video explaining his ability to film the gelato himself.

He said following training in Italy, he has the expertise to assess the product’s condition visually and understand how temperature affects its texture.

The store also faced online criticism, with some commenters describing its gelato as overpriced. Prices range from 159 baht to more than 500 baht per serving.

In response, Mr Kris posted a video noting Thai business operators often compete on price. However, lower prices may not necessarily provide product quality comparable to higher-priced alternatives.

He encouraged consumers to value brands that offer quality products at reasonable prices.

Mr Kris said many countries place greater value on innovation, product quality and creativity.

Asst Prof Buppa Lapawattanaphun, a lecturer in communication at the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce, said the brand’s communication focuses on three points: limited availability, ultra-smooth texture and premium ingredients.

The brand appears to use a controversial marketing strategy by intentionally raising issues surrounding its products, which lead to public debate and discussion on social media, she noted.

This strategy generates buzz through word-of-mouth marketing and creates a sense of fear of missing out (FOMO), encouraging consumers to try the products themselves.

However, controversial marketing is risky because it exposes a brand to reputational risks, said Asst Prof Buppa.

While FOMO buzz may attract short-term attention, she said these strategies should be used with caution.

For long-term success, maintaining or improving product quality and customer service are essential, said Asst Prof Buppa.

This controversy has created business opportunities for the industry by increasing public interest in gelato, prompting consumers to visit other specialised gelato shops, she noted.

Residents in 15 Thai provinces, mostly in the North, are urged to be alert to possible landslides and forest runoff from Thursday to Saturday, according to the Department of Mineral Resources.

The department on Thursday asked volunteer networks in each province to closely monitor conditions and inform the public accordingly.

Provinces forecast to be at risk of landslides and forest runoff are:

North: Tak, Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai, Lamphun, Chiang Rai, Nan, Phayao, Prae, Uttaradit and Phetchabun

Central Plains: Kanchanaburi

East: Chanthaburi and Trat

South: Ranong and Phangnga.

The warning was issued as a monsoon trough was covering the North and Northeast, coinciding with a strong southwesterly wind, the department said.

Heavy rain has been pouring continuously in some areas, with 24-hour accumulation exceeding 150 millimetres.

Some residential areas have experienced flooding and forest runoff since last night, including Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Chanthaburi and Petchabun, according to local media.

People are also being advised to move their valuables to higher ground.

Thailand’s national team were back on the training pitch at BGTC 3 on Wednesday, stepping up preparations for their Group B second fixture against Malaysia in the Asean Hyundai Cup 2026.

Defender Pansa Hemviboon, speaking ahead of the evening session, said the squad was in good shape with no fresh injuries following the opening match.

“Every player is ready for the next match. We had a full recovery in fitness terms,” he said. “Malaysia are a good side with a good standard — they’ve always played well against us, especially their strikers, who have real quality.”

Pansa added that a home crowd would give Thailand a lift. “I believe the fans will come out in full force. That will also help pressure the opponent. We have to beat Malaysia to keep our qualification hopes alive.”

Midfielder Worachit Kanitsribumphen said the squad’s condition was improving after a demanding double session.

“The coaching staff have been stressing fitness and tactics for the Malaysia game,” he said. “We need to be wary of their counter-attacking threat — they switch from defence to attack very quickly, and both their wingers and strikers are dangerous.”

Worachit praised the squad’s cohesion following the opening win over Laos and said the younger players had settled in well under head coach Anthony Hudson.

“Coach Hudson has told us not to underestimate anyone — Laos wasn’t easy, but we delivered. Malaysia is a must-win game at home. Three points here would give us a strong chance of topping the group.”

Worachit also acknowledged the physical toll of a congested travel schedule but said a lengthy rest period beforehand had left the squad refreshed and ready to face Malaysia.

Thailand face Malaysia on Saturday at Rajamangala Stadium, kicking off at 8pm.

Meanwhile, Thailand have been drawn alongside Vietnam, Pakistan and the Philippines in Group B for the inaugural Fifa Asean Cup, world football’s governing body confirmed on Wednesday.

The new tournament will be split into two divisions, with the top tier staged in Indonesia and the second division held in Hong Kong. The competition runs from Sept 24-Oct 3, with Fifa expected to confirm the full format and schedule in due course.

Foreign patients are increasing in Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) hospitals as investment in the industrial zone grows, says Phyathai Sriracha Hospital, part of the Phyathai-Paolo Hospital Group.

The EEC, which spans parts of Chon Buri, Rayong and Chachoengsao, has become a magnet for foreign direct investment, especially in industries such as electric vehicles and supply chains.

This influx of Chinese companies has brought thousands of workers to the region, many of whom are seeking medical care.

Chanchai Leesomprasong, executive director of Phyathai Sriracha, said Chinese patients represent a high-potential market due to their strong spending power.

“Chinese investors are flooding into Thailand, and with them comes a growing demand for healthcare services,” he said.

To meet this demand, Phyathai Sriracha has expanded its presence in the eastern region.

The hospital plans to open a new facility in Bowin, within Chon Buri’s Si Racha district, and is moving forward with plans to expand its Sriracha Bowin Hospital in phases: the first stage has 59 beds and is set for completion later this year, followed by expansions to 529 beds and ultimately 629 beds.

Phyathai Sriracha 1 currently has 257 beds, while Phyathai Sriracha 2 has 113 beds.

Dr Chanchai said revenue at the Bowin facility has increased by around 15%, largely driven by the rising number of Chinese patients.

Foreign patients account for 5-6% of Phyathai Sriracha’s patient base, but the hospital expects this figure to reach 10% by 2027, with Chinese nationals making up the majority.

The hospital’s outpatient department already serves roughly 6,000 people daily, including both Thai and foreign patients.

To enhance the patient experience, Phyathai Sriracha invested 400-500 million baht in renovating its platinum lounge, designed to cater to high-end patients with personalised care.

The hospital also earmarked 100 million baht for facility upgrades and maintenance this year.

Looking ahead, the hospital plans to invest in renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power to reduce costs and strengthen energy security.

Despite concerns about the growing demand for energy and water in the EEC, particularly from new data centres, Dr Chanchai expressed confidence in government measures to manage supply.

“We are prepared with our own strategies to cope with any shortages,” he said.

Italian and Spanish tourist arrivals registered the biggest dips among European markets in the first six months of the year, with Italians posting lower spending than European peers due to a sluggish economy, according to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT).

Last week, a group of Italian students faced backlash for causing disturbances and insulting a Thai passenger on a train. They later apologised after complaints were filed.

Prakaipruek Damrongvadha, director of the TAT’s Rome office, said southern Europe recorded arrivals growth of 22% year-on-year in 2025, reaching 1.1 million arrivals and generating 71 billion baht in revenue, with growth continuing in the first quarter of this year.

However, these markets declined in the second quarter following the Gulf crisis, as most travellers relied on Middle Eastern carriers, including 60% of Italian tourists, 80% of Spanish tourists and 90% of Portuguese tourists.

As of July 15, the agency reported Spain, Italy and Portugal had the biggest downturns among all European markets, falling 15.1% to 80,089 arrivals, 10.5% to 135,572 arrivals and 7.75% to 27,098 arrivals, respectively.

Many tourists from Italy and Spain are visiting Thailand now during the school break in July and August, helping fill low-season vacancies at hotels.

While Middle Eastern carriers have started restoring flight capacity between Thailand and Europe, tourists remain cautious about making new bookings and require flexible conditions from operators, said Ms Prakaipruek. Other challenges include high airfares and the cost of living, as tourists from this region tend to be more price-sensitive than other Europeans, particularly the Italian market, she noted.

Italy is projected to post GDP growth of only 0.5-0.8% and inflation of 2.5-2.6% this year, while its energy prices have risen significantly the past five years, with household costs increasing by roughly 60%. As a result, the TAT is focusing on high-spending segments that are less price-conscious, such as affluent retirees, luxury travellers and wellness tourists, said Ms Prakaipruek.

“Thailand has a strong brand image among southern European tourists. Once the geopolitical situation returns to normal, more tourists will return to Thailand,” she said.

Roughly 25 million Italians, or 40% of the population, hold passports. Last year, they made more than 68 million outbound trips, including 17 million long-haul journeys. Their average spending was 53,600 baht per trip, with an average stay of 12 nights, lower than Spanish tourists, who spend an average of 62,132 baht per trip, noted TAT.

More than 70% of recent Italian arrivals were first-time visitors.

Thai Airways operates a direct Milan-Bangkok route, while ITA Airways flies direct between Rome and Bangkok. ITA reduced flights in May and June after shifting aircraft to the Americas, but plans to increase services to five flights a week in August to meet strong demand for Thailand. Neos plans to offer charter flights from Milan to Phuket from November to April 2027.

Democrat MP Karndee Leopairote has called on the public to oppose the government’s 1.621-billion-baht TH-AI Passport project, demanding greater transparency and value for taxpayers.

Ms Karndee, also the Democrat Party’s deputy leader, promoted a public petition on Facebook on Wednesday, describing “corruption carried out within the rules” as unacceptable and encouraging people to support efforts to scrutinise the scheme.

The campaign, organised by a group of technology professionals who describe themselves as politically independent and not funded by any company or organisation, seeks to halt the project and calls for a review by the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society.

It contends that compliance with procurement regulations alone does not guarantee that public spending is justified or delivers measurable benefits.

The campaign website says the concern is not whether procedures were formally followed but whether the project has clear performance indicators, transparent evaluation criteria and demonstrable public value.

Organisers also question whether taxpayers should fund a project costing more than 1.6 billion baht if its benefits cannot be independently assessed.

Ms Karndee shared the campaign’s appeal, which claims she has remained the only MP persistently examining the project. The petition calls for every baht of public spending to be open to scrutiny and carries slogans including “Transparent oversight” and “Stop wasteful spending”.

The TH-AI Passport project aims to provide five million people with a year’s access to professional or premium artificial intelligence tools. The system has not yet opened for public registration and remains in the user acceptance testing (UAT) stage, with final testing scheduled for Friday.

The Ministry of Digital Economy and Society is awaiting legal advice from the Office of the Attorney General on proposed amendments to the contract, including payment based on the number of active users, before deciding when the scheme can be launched.

Police have arrested a fake dentist and two others for running a dental clinic without a licence in Muang district of this northeastern province.

Local police and health officials raided the clinic in a commercial building in Buri Ram municipality on Thursday. They found a 28-year-old man identified only as Kai fitting dental braces for a 19-year-old woman.

Dr Yutthana Suriya, head of the provincial public health office, said the arrest followed public complaints about the unlicensed clinic where dental treatment and brace services were available.

The arrests took place while Mr Kai and two assistants were treating a 19-year-old woman. They also seized medicine, anaesthetic and brace equipment.

Officials found that unclean and substandard practices and equipment posed serious health risks because patients could contract blood infections, hepatitis or experience damage to mouth structures, Dr Yutthana said.

The 19-year-old patient told officials that she learned about the clinic via social media and made an appointment to get braces.

However, she said she became concerned because she did not receive an X-ray before treatment, nor did she even see an X-ray machine. She realised her mistake when the authorities showed up while she was in the dentist’s chair.

Mr Kai reportedly told police that he did not graduate in dentistry but had run the clinic for about a decade.

Best known as Viagra, the erectile dysfunction drug sildenafil started off as a treatment for reduced blood flow but soon saw its value spike after its other effects became clear.

The blue pill could have more uses, according to research by scientists at the Weizmann Institute of Science in Tel Aviv. The team found indications that it curbs cancer metastasis via a ‘newly discovered biological mechanism’ drawing upon the drug’s blood dilatation effects.

Sildenafil curbs the capacity of cancer cells to make use of cholesterol, which the team describes as ‘an essential component of cellular membranes’.

‘Cholesterol is particularly important for cancer cells seeking to break away from the primary tumour, migrate throughout the body and invade distant organs,’ the researchers point out. They say if access to cholesterol is limited, the cells in turn ‘have a harder time forming metastases’.

Viagra’s potential to limit cancer spread could be boosted by using it alongside statins, a widely taken medication that limits cholesterol production.

In a paper published in the journal Cancer Research, the team says an analysis of digital health records pointed to ‘significantly improved survival among sildenafil users, with a dose-dependent additive benefit observed when combined with statins’.

‘The combination could not only limit cancer cells’ access to existing cholesterol but also prevent them from producing new cholesterol, potentially enhancing the anti-metastatic effect,’ the Weizmann Institute says.

According to Weizmann’s Ayelet Erez, the research is a reminder that cancer ‘is shaped not only by mutations in tumour cells but also by the patient’s metabolic state and by medications they are already taking for other conditions’.