Category: The Bangkok Post

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has acknowledged that the National Health Security Office (NHSO) is deeply in debt to hospitals across the country under the Universal Healthcare Scheme, widely known as the “Gold Card” programme.

He said the government is considering using the central budget to pay off the arrears if the proposal meets the budgetary criteria.

Responding to reports that Dr Rianthong Nanna, director of Mongkutwattana Hospital in Bangkok, has announced the suspension of outpatient services for Gold Card patients due to unpaid medical bills exceeding 110 million baht, Mr Anutin said the issue was widespread.

“The NHSO isn’t just indebted to one or two hospitals — it owes nearly every hospital in the country. They must speed up their financial management,” the prime minister said.

He added that he is currently reviewing the possibility of requesting central funds to clear the debts, as the Budget Bureau is now examining the matter.

“If the situation is considered urgent and meets the required criteria, I will move quickly to resolve it,” he said.

Dr Rianthong, meanwhile, has accused the NHSO of being insincere in addressing the issue, saying Mongkutwattana Hospital had repeatedly demanded payment for the unpaid medical bills but had received no clear response.

He said the financial strain had forced the hospital to borrow money from banks to cover staff salaries.

“If I had known this would happen, I wouldn’t have agreed to treat Gold Card patients in the first place,” he said, adding that he felt the NHSO was “using patients as hostages”.

The dispute began in 2020, when the hospital joined the universal healthcare system after many private clinics were delisted by the NHSO. Initial outstanding payments of 13 million baht from that period are still under administrative court review.

The NHSO deputy secretary-general, Dr Attaporn Limpanyalert, denied the Mongkutwattana Hospital’s 110-million-baht debt figure, saying the actual verified amount owed is about 37 million baht, pending normal budget procedures and data verification.

He said the NHSO will arrange alternative facilities to ensure continued care for the hospital’s 47,000 registered patients.

The Mongkutwattana case has prompted broader concern among healthcare providers and lawmakers.

Sen Veerapun Suvannamai suggested that the NHSO use 8 billion baht from the central fund — recently approved for allocation — to clear hospital debts.

He warned that the mounting debts could lead to severe consequences, including drug suppliers refusing to release medicine to hospitals, delayed salary payments to healthcare staff and shortages of surgical equipment.

Guru By Bangkok Post’s pick of the most exciting products, activities, food and travel to indulge in.

EAT

Weekend feast / Uno Mas

Weekends at Uno Mas, Centara Grand at CentralWorld, have become a culinary ritual with diners spending leisurely afternoons enjoying bold flavours and authentic creations by chef de cuisine Borja Terry Borrego. Available every Saturday, Sunday and public holiday, the buffet journeys through Spain’s coastal bounty and regional favourites. Highlights include an array of cold appetisers such as tuna and crab tartare, octopus and seafood salads, silky salmon belly and smoked salmon mille-feuille. Hot dishes feature Galician-style sea bass, Iberian pork loin, pan-seared duck breast, black ink baby squid, gambas pil-pil and oxtail bocadillo, alongside comforting classics like beef tartare, mixed croquettes, lamb chops, gnocchi and pan-seared salmon. The feast ends with a parade of Spanish sweets, from Basque cheesecake and brazo gitano to Pantxineta and churros dipped in rich chocolate sauce.

Afternoon tea / The Okura Prestige Bangkok / Until Jan 14, 2026

The Okura Prestige Bangkok has launched the ‘Sense of Matcha Afternoon Tea’, available until Jan 14, 2026 at Up and Above Restaurant and Bar. The tea begins with the savouries with a Deep fried seaweed prawn cake with matcha mayo and mango gel; Duck rillette rigatoni with matcha moss and orange peel gel; Sweet miso, edamame mascarpone tartlet; and Matcha yuzu, mango and snow crab. The sweet collections are Green forest gateaux; Genmaicha mousse with mascarpone, kinako and cherry; macarons and Yuzu green velvet cake. A choice of a clear matcha or a creamy matcha latte is also on offer.

Afternoon tea / Conrad Bangkok / Until Feb 28

Conrad Bangkok’s Diplomat Bar unveils “A Taste Of London” afternoon tea. Inspired by the elegance of London’s silver service and the charm of its afternoon tea culture, the curated experience blends classic British flavours with contemporary finesse. The 12-course menu offers British-inspired savouries and sweets. Warm scones served with vanilla Chantilly and strawberry jam complete the experience. To celebrate the launch, Diplomat Bar offers unlimited servings of four mini sandwiches from the classic cucumber to truffled egg, beetroot gravlax salmon or tomato and basil chicken. There are also London-inspired libations.

Monthly specials / Red Sky / Until Oct 31

Red Sky Restaurant at Centara Grand at CentralWorld is offering an à la carte menu dedicated to two of autumn’s most prized delicacies: golden girolles and winter truffles. Created by chef Luca Russo, the limited-time menu showcases the earthy depth and aromatic intensity of girolle mushrooms, perfectly complemented by the luxurious notes of winter truffle. Highlights include Pan-seared foie gras with girolles and winter truffle; Tagliatelle with wild girolles and winter truffle; and Black cod with grilled girolles and winter truffle.

Curated evenings / Penthosue Bar + Grill

‘The Ultimate Penthouse Experience’ is a sensory journey that unfolds across three levels of Penthouse Bar + Grill. Designed for two, the curated evening features handcrafted cocktails served with panoramic rooftop views, a decadent beef tasting dinner at the Penthouse Grill, and a bespoke whisky immersion at Southeast Asia’s first Johnnie Walker Depth of Blue flagship store. Enjoy live performances by Alba Santos at the Cocktail Bar. The evening begins with sunset pre-dinner drinks on the rooftop terrace at Level 36, where guests enjoy two signature cocktails. Alternatively, for those who prefer an indoor setting, the Cocktail Bar on Level 35 offers two cocktails by head mixologist Fabio Brugnolaro. Dinner begins at the Penthouse Grill on Level 34 with a a ‘Beef Tasting Experience’ featuring three different cuts of beef and bone marrow, and two side dishes of choice, and two expertly paired wines per person. Guests can tailor their night with two handcrafted cocktails at the Cocktail Bar on Level 35 or opt for the exclusive two-glass Johnnie Walker Depth of Blue Experience, an immersive whisky journey available only in Bangkok.

Jazzy brunch / Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit / Oct 12 and Oct 19 and Oct 26

Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit will host its legendary Sunday Jazzy Brunch in October. The brunch unveils three themed journeys harmonising gourmet flavours, free-flow Champagne and world-class live jazz performances. On Oct 12, the theme is ‘Smoky Flavours: A Regional BBQ Celebration’, offering a smoky feast of global inspirations featuring tender brisket, ribs, pulled pork, sausages, whole chicken and duck and smoked salmon. On Oct 19, the “Taste Of Bali With Guest Chef Wisnu Adiyatma” will take place. On Oct 26, “Treasures Of The Sea: International Chef Day Celebration”.

JOIN

Four-hands dinner / Tsu Japanese Restaurant / Oct 17

Chefs Photchaman ‘Aom’ Arnupapdecha and Atsushi Yoshida unite for an evening of Japanese-inspired cuisine that celebrates precision, creativity and collaboration at Tsu Japanese Restaurant at JW Marriott Hotel Bangkok. On oct 17, chef Aom from Hua Hin Marriott Resort and Spa’s Big Fish and Bar joins chef Yoshida, Japanese head chef at JW Marriott Hotel Bangkok. The menu opens with a Rosette waffle with tuna tartare; Sustainable hamachi, salmon and kihada maguro; Seabass and prawns aguachile; and Glazed pork loin with shimeji, sweet white onions, spinach, and kabayaki pork sauce for mains. The experience concludes with a Kasama chestnut mousse with red bean and caramelised chestnuts.

Terrarium workshop / Avani Ratchada Bangkok / Oct 18

Avani Ratchada Bangkok will host a “Mix and Moss: Bottle Terrarium Workshop” on Oct 18 at the Metro Lounge. In collaboration with Miniature Terrarium, participants will be guided step-by-step to design a unique living piece. The two-hour workshop comes with unlimited drinks including tea, coffee and mocktails, along with an array of delicate sweet treats and light bites crafted by the hotel’s pastry chef.

Meat collab / The Crystal Grill House x Lady Butcher / Oct 18

The Crystal Grill House on the Chao Phraya River welcomes Lady Butcher aka chef Natsasi “Natt” Noo-in for a six-course culinary journey and wine pairing on Oct. The six-course set menu will showcase a selection of cuts of beef, including: Isan avocado deviled eggs, Beef carpaccio ‘laab de Paris, Silken bone broth with wild tamarind and fire-roasted chilies, Mok nue sun nok, Côte de bœuf ‘kaeng rawang’ and Honey truffle ice cream sandwich.

Trattoria tour / Appia × Mazzo / Oct 15-16

For two evenings only, Appia will welcome chefs Francesca Barreca and Marco Baccanelli of Mazzo, Rome, a trattoria celebrated for its bold, modern take on Roman classics. Together with Appia’s team, they will present a one-off multi-course menu showcasing the flavours of Rome in their unique style.

20-year anniversary / Richard Koh Fine Art x Natee Utarit / Until Oct 25

Richard Koh Fine Art (RKFA) presents “20+20”, a solo exhibition of selected works by artist Natee Utarit, staged across the gallery’s three locations in Bangkok, Singapore and Kuala Lumpur. The exhibition celebrates 20 years of RKFA’s journey. Within this wider journey, Natee has been one of the gallery’s earliest and most consistent collaborators. His practice, known for interrogating classical Western painting traditions while engaging with the cultural, philosophical and sociopolitical realities of Southeast Asia, has made a vital contribution to critical conversations in the region. “20X20” underscores the geographical reach of the gallery and the depth of his artistic journey. It brings together a selection of works, drawn from past and recent series, that have passed through the gallery’s hands over the last two decades.

Making a mark / noble Play / Oct 10 to Jan 10, 2026

333Artlink will host the ‘Make A Mark ?????????’ exhibition running from Oct 10 to Jan 10, 2026 at noble Play at BTS Phloen Chit. The exhibition explores the power of graffiti and street art as the ‘language of the city’, a means of telling stories, raising questions and creating new meaning within the context of contemporary urban society. Sixteen artists have come together, walking through the Phloen Chit neighbourhood to collect traces of the city and found objects that reflect everyday urban life. These materials have been transformed into works of art, turning the exhibition space into a ‘miniature city’ that records the stories of its people. The exhibition is an immersive, participatory experience with 16 graffiti walls, an Art Market, a DJ Party with free drinks and a graffiti workshop. Through interactive activities, audiences can ‘leave their mark’ within the space. Each artwork becomes a layering of the artist’s expression, the city’s traces and the audience’s participation, collectively creating new meaning and transforming the gallery into a shared space for dialogue.

Haunted house in Bang Na / Megabangna / Until Oct 31

Megabangna welcomes Halloween with “Mega Halloween 2025: The Scream Lab” created in collaboration with Mega Cineplex. The Scream Lab takes brave souls on a journey filled with shocks, screams and supernatural surprises. The event unfolds in two phases. Throughout, customers can get into the Halloween spirit by exploring and taking photos with The Scream Lab. Then, from Oct 17-31, the true challenge begins as thrill-seekers are invited to take part in an Escape Room-like adventure. Participants will walk into an abandoned lab sealed off after a mysterious tragedy 20 years ago, now reopened for the first time this Halloween. In this mission, they play as rescue team members tasked with shutting down the lab and uncovering a hidden four-digit code to escape. Inside, four rooms reveal the dark secrets and revenges that have long been buried. The Escape Room experience is, however, an exclusive privilege for Mega Smile Rewards members only. Participants can collect their admission tickets in person one hour before the session at the main entrance by registering through the Megabangna application, free of charge. The first 100 participants each day who successfully survive the four rooms will also receive a complimentary movie ticket from Mega Cineplex.

STUFF

New single / Star2 / Oct 10

The first listen for “Kokaine” from San Diego-based hip-hop artist and Thai refugee Star2 is being released on Oct 10. ‘I’m addicted to your love like that Kokaine…’ Teaming up with fellow refugee artists Eh La and Tae Tae, the track is a fiery creation that blends English and Thai lyrics over a hypnotic, hard-hitting beat. The track is groovy yet volatile, pulling listeners into the rush of a love that feels as dangerous as it is irresistible. Laced with frustration and raw honesty, ‘Kokaine’ captures the push and pull of a toxic relationship.The heavy production underscores the anger and tension, giving the song a dramatic edge. Star2 was born in Mae La refugee camp in Thailand and is on a mission to use his music to amplify voices from his community. Star2 continues to bring this perspective to his music, curating collaborations that feel both global and deeply personal. Listen to “Kokaine” here: //s.disco.ac/ hzybdvguoezr.

New collection / Ikea Thailand

Ikea Thailand has launched the Sandlöpare collection, a fun and educational range inspired by the wildlife of the African savanna. With the launch, Ikea Thailand has partnered with the Seub Nakhasathien Foundation, a long-standing organisation dedicated to wildlife and nature conservation. Until Nov 1, Ikea will donate B100 per Sandlöpare soft toy sold to support the protection of large forest habitats, biodiversity and endangered species. Customers who purchase products from the Sandlöpare collection can enjoy free ice cream throughout the month, along with special furniture promotions. Children can join the ‘Little Artists’ Corner’ every Saturday at Ikea Bangna, Bang Yai and Sukhumvit, enjoy face-painting activities on Oct 4-5 and explore the wonders of Thailand’s protected wildlife in Edutainment Sessions with the Seub Nakhasathien Foundation on Oct 11 at Ikea Bangna and on Oct 18 at Ikea Bangyai.

New collab / H and M x Lorena Saravia / From Oct 16

On Oct 16, H and M will launch its latest collaboration with the celebrated Mexican fashion designer Lorena Saravia. The collection showcases the designer’s signature sensibility, characterised by an empowering, contemporary spirit and a deep connection to her heritage. The 29-piece collection balances the strength of structured silhouettes, such as Saravia’s best-selling denim jacket and denim chaps, with sensual evening styles, including draped blouses and backless gowns. Urban and versatile, an undeniable tribute to Mexico plays out in the workwear fabrics, craft-like details, and cowboy boots. Accessories layer the collection with stories and character. Saravia’s grandmother’s lion earrings served as the model for the earrings and buttons, while the brown suede cowboy boots, broad-brimmed hat and decorative belt add unmistakable flair. Available in selected stores and online.

Major Muji / Central World / Nov 28

Muji Thailand is gearing up to launch its new store at CentralWorld as its largest flagship store in Southeast Asia. The 40th store aims to become a must-visit destination for Thai shoppers and international visitors alike. Set to officially open on Nov 28, on the 4th floor, Zone I of CentralWorld, it promises a shopping experience on par with Muji’s flagship stores in Japan. Spanning more than 3,700m², it brings together Muji’s full product range available in Thailand, all thoughtfully curated under one roof, with a reimagined store layout designed to elevate the shopping journey through interactive and experiential zones. With the concept of ‘Muji Meets Thai Way Of Living’, the store showcases how Muji products can seamlessly blend into local lifestyles, while its design is infused with subtle touches of Thai aesthetics. Besides retail, the store aims to be a community hub, offering creative and cultural spaces that encourage people who share common interests in design, art and sustainability to gather and exchange ideas. Doesn’t CentralWorld already have a Muji store, you ask? Yes, the one on the fourth floor, located in the department store part, will remain open as usual.

New colour / Rimowa

Rimowa has introduced Ballerina Pink as its new seasonal colour. The delicate, light-pink shade graces Rimowa’s iconic Essential collection and Travel Accessories. Crafted from premium polycarbonate, the Essential range is expertly colour-matched, from the handle and zipper to the badge and wheel housing, for a seamless, monochromatic appearance. The new colour can be found in various products, from a cross-body bag, toiletry pouch, iPhone cases and cabin luggage.

STAY

Winter escape / Le Méridien Chiang Rai Resort / Until Dec 26

As the cool winter air settles over Northern Thailand, Le Méridien Chiang Rai Resort has launched the “La Fête” winter package. The resort presents a distinct selection of activities and discoveries to enrich the guest experience. Every Friday to Sunday, guests can relax on the Favola Deck and soak in the peaceful ambiance of the river while enjoying good music, delicious food, and refreshing drinks. Marshmallow Night will be hosted at The Fire Pit and includes a marshmallow set for roasting over a crackling fire and two cups of hot chocolate. Participate in a traditional Buddhist ritual every Saturday by offering food to nine monks and receiving a blessing. Basic yoga and sound healing on Sundays help relaxation and restore energy.

More flights / Air Canada / From Oct 28

Air Canada will extend the Bangkok-Vancouver route from a seasonal schedule to year-round service, with year-round operations commencing on Oct 28. Thai travellers can experience Canada at its best in every season. Air Canada has carefully designed its Bangkok-Vancouver schedule to maximize passenger convenience. Early morning arrivals in Vancouver, with late-night departures from Vancouver offer flexibility. Onboard there are a choice of three classes: Air Canada Signature Class, Premium Economy and Economy. Passengers travelling in all cabins can benefit from Aeroplan, Air Canada’s loyalty programme, which allows members to earn and redeem points across the Star Alliance. Additional perks include free Wi-Fi messaging on select flights, with full free Wi-Fi scheduled to roll out across the international network by 2026.

New hotel / Aman Singapore

Aman has announced Aman Singapore, a forthcoming urban sanctuary that will redefine the city’s ultra-luxury landscape. Aman Singapore will be situated within The Skywaters, set to be Singapore’s tallest and most iconic new skyscraper. The Skywaters will rise from a rare island site at the convergence of Singapore’s Central Business District, Marina Bay, and the future Greater Southern Waterfront. Aman Singapore will feature elegant interiors and harmonious design, encompassing the global Aman Club, as well as Aman Residences. A dedicated floor of meticulously crafted and spacious hotel suites will offer sweeping views of Singapore’s iconic metropolis.

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul is scheduled to visit the southern border provinces tomorrow to assess security measures after a series of violent incidents in Yala and Narathiwat sparked renewed concerns about unrest in the region.

The attacks, including a gold shop robbery in Narathiwat’s Sungai Kolok district on Sunday and a wave of explosions in Yala’s Muang district on Tuesday and Wednesday nights, have raised fears of a resurgence in violence just weeks after Mr Anutin’s government assumed office.

Mr Anutin, who also serves as the interior minister, said his visit follows that of Defence Minister Nattaphon Narkphanit, who inspected the situation yesterday.

The prime minister dismissed speculation that the attacks were a symbolic “welcome” gesture for the new administration, stressing that the government’s response must focus on proactive and coordinated measures.

“Security agencies, the Southern Border Provinces Administrative Centre and provincial governors must work together closely,” Mr Anutin said.

“We already have a solid security framework for the deep South, but its success depends on how effectively local officials and security units carry out their responsibilities. If I find any lack of commitment, changes will be made.”

The prime minister reiterated his administration’s zero-tolerance policy towards misconduct by state officials and said details of the Narathiwat gold shop robbery, in which a group of armed men escaped with over 35.6 million baht worth of gold jewellery, would be released by the agencies overseeing the investigation.

Meanwhile, authorities in Yala have temporarily closed two public parks for safety inspections after eight explosions on Wednesday night. No injuries were reported.

Seven of the bombs were planted near an artificial waterfall at Khwan Mueang Park, while another detonated on an islet at Sanam Chang Phueak Park between 8.03pm and 10.51pm, authorities said. Both parks are venues for traditional ceremonies marking the end of the Buddhist Lent.

Yala deputy governor Kongsakul Chantharat said the closures were necessary to ensure public safety.

The incidents followed three explosions at a youth centre in Muang district on Tuesday night.

Bomb disposal experts said the devices were timed pipe bombs, each weighing about 1 kilogramme, similar to those used in the earlier attacks.

Deputy national police chief, Pol Gen Samran Nuanma, and Lt Gen Norathip Pounok, commander of the Fourth Army Region and acting director of the Internal Security Operations Command Region 4, also visited the affected sites on Thursday to oversee the investigations.

Lt Gen Norathip expressed deep concern for the well-being of the public, assuring that all security agencies will work together to safeguard the community with full force.

If anyone notices suspicious individuals, objects or has information that could assist in tracking down the perpetrators, they are encouraged to contact the 1341 hotline or reach out to the nearest special task force unit, available 24 hours a day.

Those who support violent offenders, whether by providing shelter, hiding them, or supplying provisions, are in violation of Section 189 of the Criminal Code.

Such actions are punishable by up to two years in prison, a fine of up to 40,000 baht, or both.

More leading brands are now on board with Central Department Store in evolving its annual watch fair, enriching the variety from three-hand models to sophisticated timepieces.

The latest releases were worn by celebrities led by actor Harit Buayoi at the grand opening of the Central International Watch Fair 2025, held on Oct 1 at Central Chidlom, aka The Store Of Bangkok.

The renovated second floor include the whimsically-named Watch Watch zone, which serves as the main venue for exploring the novelties.

Harit wore the Grand Seiko SLGW007 with a textured navy-blue dial and matching strap evoking the bark of a white birch tree bathed in moonlight.

From the Evolution 9 collection, the stainless steel dress watch is powered by a hand-wound high-beat movement (36,000 vibrations per hour or 10 beats per second), which assures accuracy and a generous power reserve of up to 80 hours.

Grand Seiko doubled its presence with a counter at the Watch Watch department and a pop-up exhibition at the Atrium on the ground floor. Under the concept “Feel The Nature Of Grand Seiko”, the exhibition presents exquisite timepieces, inspired by Japan’s seasonal beauty and landscape.

Frederique Constant has reinterpreted its Classic Tourbillon Manufacture in a white gold case and an aventurine dial for a limited edition of 36 pieces. The tourbillon spins inside the “Heart Beat” window at 6 o’clock while the self-winding movement is revealed by the transparent caseback.

Redesigned models include Longines PrimaLuna with refined case proportions and a new date display in the moon phase complication. The new collection includes a self-winding model with a mother-of-pearl dial in a Celestial Blue shade and a bezel set with blue sapphires in a subtle gradation of hues and sizes.

Japanese brand Orient Star has also refreshed the moon phase display on the Mechanical Classic M45 with a motif made from mother of pearl. The dial has a stamped pattern expressing the beauty of the M45 Pleiades star cluster, and a monotone gradation transitioning from grey in the centre to black on the outer edge.

Casio transferred the Japanese art of hammering to G-Shock MR-G, with master tsuiki artisan Kazuya Watanabe crafting a relief pattern on the bezel and bracelet, making each timepiece unique. The artistry is complemented by the execution on DAT55G, a special alloy that is three times harder than pure titanium. Moreover, this extra-hard metal material is finished with a diamond-like carbon, or DLC, coating for enhanced scratch- and abrasion-resistance.

The watchmaking at Oris employs a material made from carbon fibre using an additive manufacturing and moulding technique. As light as plastic and yet stronger than most metals, the innovative carbon-fibre composite is used to make the case of the ProPilot Altimeter Mission Control — a collab between Oris and the Bamford Watch Department.

The ProPilot Altimeter is the only watch in the world to house a “Swiss Made” automatic mechanical movement alongside a mechanical altimeter that can relay readings up to 6km.

The Swiss brand also launched the Oris Big Crown Calibre 113 featuring a business calendar at the Central International Watch Fair 2025.

Seiko debuted a limited edition of 500 pieces in partnership with Thai product design company PDM, with its signature stride pattern in navy blue adorning the dial of Seiko Prospex.

During the watch fair, The Citizen will celebrate its 30th anniversary and introduce two models, exclusively available at Central Chidlom.

Under Central Retail, Central Department Store has dedicated the Luxury Watch Week to showcasing exceptional timepieces.

Blancpain, Bulgari and Omega as well as Cortina Watch participated in the first round of the Luxury Watch Week. The second round scheduled from Oct 17-19 will present a selection from Pendulum — the authorised retailer of various luxury and independent watch brands.

Likewise the three-day Distinguished Brand Showcase starting from Oct 31 will introduce new participants with a rich heritage.

Rudis Sylva dates way back to 1384, while Charles Girardier is named after a master watchmaker active in Geneva from the second half of the 18th century to the early 19th century.

Cuervo y Sobrinos is the only luxury watch brand with a Latin legacy, as it was born in Havana in 1882. Seven years later, Doxa was established in Le Locle, Switzerland’s cradle of watchmaking.

While founded in 2019, BA111OD is rooted in more than 250 years of the Baillod family’s horological heritage in NeuchStel.

The Central International Watch Fair 2025 will also feature Austrian maison Carl Suchy and Söhne in an exclusive workshop on Nov 2. Owner Robert Punkenhofer will trace the history back to 1822 and update on the revival since 2017.

Arpichaya Yubol shot a bogey-free eight-under-par 64 on Thursday to take a one-stroke lead after the opening round of the LPGA Shanghai tournament.

The 23-year-old Thai had four birdies on each of the front and back nines on the par-72 Qizhong Garden Golf Club.

Minjee Lee, who won the Women’s PGA Championship in June for her third major title, was in a group of five, a stroke behind. Thai world No.1 Jeeno Thitikul, Jenny Shin, Jenny Bae and Ina Yoon also shot 65s.

Another Thai Patty Tavatankit hit a 69 to share 17th place with nine other players while defending champion Yin Ruoning of China shot a 71.

Lee said she navigated the difficult bumpy greens at Qizhong as best she could with her broomstick-style putter. Most of the greens are brown and patchy due to the extreme heat and humidity of Shanghai.

“I feel like with how the greens are, the conditions, I managed pretty well to make, what, seven birdies, so it was a nice day for me,” the Australian said.

The Shanghai event is the first of five tournaments in Asia. There are two weeks in South Korea, including the International Crown team event, and other tournaments in Malaysia and Japan.

Last week, Hwang You-Min extended the incredible streak on the LPGA of having different winners at each of the 25 official tournaments this year. Hwang was the sixth player from South Korea to win on the LPGA this year.

In Japan, Ryder Cup teammates Xander Schauffele and Collin Morikawa were both four shots off the lead after yesterday’s opening round of the US PGA Tour’s Baycurrent Classic, as they struggled to cope with windy conditions.

The American duo both carded level-par 71s at the Yokohama Country Club, less than two weeks after playing in the USA’s defeat to Europe at Bethpage Black in New York.

Americans Max Greyserman, Bud Cauley and Brian Campbell shared the lead after shooting four-under 67.

A typhoon is lurking off the coast of Japan and players had to deal with blustery conditions, despite tee times being moved earlier to avoid the worst of the weather.

Schauffele, who won gold at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021, hit three birdies but also carded three bogeys, including one on the final hole.

Morikawa, who won this tournament in 2023 when it was called the Zozo Championship, damaged a promising round with bogeys on the 15th and 16th before birdieing the 17th.

Cauley said it was tough to deal with the conditions but was satisfied with his bogey-free round.

“The winds were difficult, just trying to manage that,” said the 35-year-old.

“I felt like I hit a lot of good shots, made a couple of putts, and it was nice not to make any bogeys on a day like today, that was difficult.”

The Baycurrent Classic is the only US PGA Tour event currently staged in Asia.

It was previously known as the Zozo Championship and first held in 2019 when Tiger Woods was the inaugural champion. Matsuyama won it in 2021.

Some 101 hawksbill sea turtle hatchlings have been hatched at Koh Talu Beach in Bang Saphan Noi district of Prachuap Khiri Khan, according to the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation.

This followed over two months of close monitoring after a turtle laid 155 eggs on Aug 14.

Ekarit Duangmala, chief of Ao Siam National Park, said 101 successfully hatched, representing a 65% survival rate and indicating significant progress in marine conservation.

“This is an excellent sign for ongoing efforts to restore the sea turtle population in the area. The remaining eggs comprised 19 spoiled eggs and 29 unfertilised ones … while six hatchlings died shortly after birth.”

The hatchlings are being cared for by the Siam Marine Resources Rehabilitation Foundation before they are released into the sea.

Delta Electronics (Thailand) Plc shares slide the most in four months after the stock exchange imposed market surveillance measures on the securities following their record-breaking rally.

The stock declined as much as 11%, the most since June 4, before trimming losses to trade down 10% at 10.25am.

Shares in Delta, Thailand’s most valuable publicly traded company, can no longer be used as collateral in the calculation of credit lines, and investors must pay the full amount of cash prior to trading the securities, according to the first-level measures imposed by the Stock Exchange of Thailand. The restrictions take effect from Friday through Oct 30, the bourse said in a statement Thursday.

‘We expect share selloffs’ as that was the result when similar measures were imposed in the past, Citigroup Inc analyst Sureeporn Sirisansaneeyawong in Bangkok wrote in a research note.

Delta Thailand shares had surged 25% this month through Thursday, while the nation’s benchmark SET Index gained just 3.1%. The stock has more than tripled in price from its April low, boosted by optimism over its role as maker of components for artificial-intelligence data centres.

Delta shares slid last November when the exchange also triggered market surveillance measures following a surge in the stock price. The securities fell to a three-year low before rallying.

The company was not aware of any reason for the latest surge in its share price, it said in a statement published Thursday.

Delta shares have been ‘consistently ranking as the most active for several consecutive days,’ the exchange said. The company’s market capitalisation represents almost 15% of Thailand’s equity benchmark index, it said.

A fire broke out in a 38-storey condominium building on Somdet Phra Pin Klao Road in Bangkok Noi district of the capital on Thursday, with multiple occupants trapped inside.

Thick smoke was first seen emerging from the 16th floor of the building, located opposite Pata department store.

Fire crews and rescue teams arrived at the scene at 2pm, with rescuers inside the building helping to evacuate people trapped on various floors.

As of 2.20pm, authorities reported several people remaining inside, mainly on the 17th and 24th floors as well as the balcony of the 33rd floor, a particularly challenging area for rescue operations.

By 2.40pm, two residents trapped in an elevator were rescued without injury, and a foreign man trapped on the 15th floor was safely guided to the ground floor.

At 3pm, officials reported that the fire was under control. Smoke was being ventilated, and rescue personnel continued to check for anyone remaining inside the building.

China logged a welcome uptick in spending on services during the just-concluded eight-day “super Golden Week” public holiday, as the country’s transport hubs handled record numbers of passengers.

Chinese transport authorities logged 2.432 billion passenger trips – a record high and a 6.2% year-on-year increase – during this year’s extended holiday, which combined the National Day and Mid-Autumn Festival celebrations.

The surge was mainly driven by overlapping demand for tourism and family visits, as well as recent improvements to China’s transport network, the Ministry of Transport said in a statement released on Thursday.

The number of passengers taking rail, air and boat trips rose by 2.6%, 3.4% and 4.2%, respectively, during this year’s Golden Week, with travel concentrated in urban clusters such as the Yangtze River Delta, Pearl River Greater Bay Area and Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region, the ministry said.

Consumers also spent more than last year during the holiday, data from the State Taxation Administration indicated. Daily average sales revenues in consumption-related industries were up 4.5% year on year, according to the latest value-added tax invoice data, the body said.

Spending on services increased by 7.6% compared with the same period last year, while goods sales grew by a more modest 3.9%, according to the data.

The uptick was largely driven by the fact that this year’s Golden Week was unprecedentedly long, with the longer holiday creating a multiplier effect for service consumption, Minsheng Securities said in a research note on Thursday.

“Meanwhile, unprecedented subsidies (from online platforms and merchants) further fuelled service consumption,” it said, citing Amap’s decision to release 100 million yuan (460 million baht) of coupons every day during the holiday.

Amap – one of China’s leading online navigation tools – is owned by Alibaba Group Holding, which also owns the South China Morning Post.

But the research report also noted that despite the high spending figures, Chinese households remain reluctant to splash out on big-ticket items, instead favouring value-for-money options.

The tax invoice data showed relatively rapid growth in spending on digital products and automobiles compared with last year’s holiday, while demand for tourism, arts, culture and sports activities remained robust. Consumption in the catering sector maintained “steady” growth, the tax administration said.

Sales in key retail and catering industries grew 2.7% year on year during the eight-day holiday period, a slight decline from the 4.5% growth recorded during last year’s holiday, according to data from the Ministry of Commerce.

In the tourism sector, overseas tourism stood out as a highlight. WeChat Pay, a major Chinese digital payment service, reported a 21% year-on-year increase in cross-border payments during the holiday.

Japan, South Korea and Thailand remained the top international destinations for mainland tourists this Golden Week, according to WeChat Pay.

Alipay, another major Chinese digital payment service, said the top five destinations for spending by outbound Chinese tourists via Alipay on Oct 1-3 were Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, Thailand and Singapore.

Greece, Laos, Nepal, Portugal and Turkey saw the fastest growth in Alipay spending by Chinese visitors, the platform said.

Visa-free policies for Chinese citizens in countries including South Korea, Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand appear to have boosted visitor numbers, with WeChat Pay transactions up 46% year on year in South Korea and 32% in Singapore.

Inbound tourism also showed an upwards trend. During the first five days of the holiday, the average number of inbound tourists using WeChat’s mini apps per day was up over 60% year on year, according to the platform.

Shanghai recorded a seven-fold surge in the number of tax refund applications submitted by foreign tourists compared with last year’s holiday, after authorities expanded the refund programme earlier this year.

Hong Kong residents also took advantage of the holiday to visit the mainland. WeChat Pay HK logged a 120% year-on-year surge in transactions by Hong Kong residents on the mainland during this year’s holiday, with spending on e-commerce services, pet services and courier services rising fastest.

“Many friends and colleagues I know travelled during the holiday, but were quite prudent in spending,” said Julie Zhou, a Guangzhou-based barista in her 20s.

In a graceful evolution of a beloved classic, Longines introduces the newly redesigned PrimaLuna collection-a tribute to femininity, elegance, and the enduring beauty of the moon.

This latest model is housed in a 34-mm polished stainless steel case, its round silhouette echoing the celestial inspiration behind its name. The bezel shimmers with 58 hand-set diamonds, totalling 0.580 carat, delicately framing a silver sunray dial adorned with painted Roman numerals in a soft blue hue.

Marking a first for the PrimaLuna line, the timepiece features a moonphase complication paired with a practical date display, a harmonious blend of romantic design and everyday function. Inside, the exclusive Longines L899.5 calibre powers the watch with mechanical precision. This self-winding movement features a silicon balance spring and a power reserve of up to 72 hours, underscoring the brand’s commitment to technical excellence.

A subtle poetic detail-the crown, shaped like a full moon and engraved with lunar crescents-invites the wearer to engage with the celestial theme on a tactile level. Paired with a sleek stainless steel bracelet and sapphire crystal with multi-layer anti-reflective coating, the PrimaLuna is built to endure, with water resistance up to 3 bar (30 metres).

Longines’ PrimaLuna collection reaffirms that elegance is not static-it evolves, gracefully and eternally. For those who seek timekeeping that reflects both inner strength and refined beauty, this timepiece is a quiet yet powerful statement.