Category: The Bangkok Post

Bangkok authorities are working around the clock to stabilise the area around Samsen police station and restore the road in front of Vajira Hospital, following the recent major subsidence that caused a sinkhole.

The sinkhole, measuring about 30 by 30 metres and 20 metres deep, opened on Sept 23, apparently caused by a leaking water pipe that led to soil subsidence and the collapse into a subway tunnel under construction.

The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) expects the backfilling work to be completed this weekend. Once the sand compaction and roadbed layers are reinforced, resurfacing will begin.

The BMA has tentatively set Oct 9 as the reopening date for Samsen Road in front of Vajira Hospital, which will restore full traffic flow to the area.

Bangkok governor Chadchart Sittipunt, who inspected the site on Friday morning, said that rain at dawn had left puddles in the subsidence area. Workers had already filled the cavity with sand and reinforced Samsen police station with temporary supports to prevent further damage, he added.

‘There may still be some soil settlement due to the rain, so we will wait for engineers and experts to give a full assessment of the next steps,’ Mr Chadchart said.

He noted that the operation was proceeding on schedule, with city work teams and pumping equipment on standby in case of heavier rain, in line with directives from the Mass Rapid Transit Authority.

Meanwhile, hospital operations are gradually returning to normal. Ampan Vimonvattana, deputy dean of the Faculty of Medicine at Vajira Hospital under Navamindradhiraj University, said patient numbers have surged this week, as many who postponed appointments after last week’s collapse were now returning.

On Thursday alone, more than 5,000 patients – both scheduled and walk-ins – sought treatment, she said. To assist them, the hospital arranged shuttle drop-off points at Sri Yan, Sirindhorn and St Gabriel’s School, as well as taxis for patients needing direct transport from the hospital, she added.

On Thursday, about 1,300 cubic metres of sand were added, bringing the total used to backfill the site to around 3,500 cubic metres. Workers dismantled damaged concrete slabs in the cavity and pushed sand beneath Samsen police station to stabilise the ground.

Temporary short piles have also been installed to strengthen the structure. So far, no significant structural shifts have been observed, according to authorities.

Re: “Legal eagles voice worries over Thaksin’s pardon bid”, (BP, Oct 1). Whatever naughtinesses he may have been accused of, it cannot be denied that Thaksin Shinawatra continues to prove a moral exemplar to the nation in at least two areas. The first is that he faithfully follows the traditional example of accumulating the greatest possible sufficiency of extreme wealth; the second is that he entertains as unfailingly as Lisa Manoban herself, albeit with his humorous approach to preached legal norms rather than with her doubtless impressive song and dance routines.

Like the best humour, Thaksin’s latest also makes a pertinent point. So, is that impertinence or what? So, add on another 15 years, no? Or are Arnon Nampa’s offences still way, way more serious than anything Thaksin or Prayut Chan-o-cha or Capt Thamanat Prompow have ever done?

Felix Qui

No to carbon tax

Re: “Climate Act, digital tools key to net zero”, (BP, Oct 2).

Now, the real reason behind climate alarmism is finally coming to light: carbon pricing — a tax on life that global planners (WEF, NV) have been trying to implement since the 1970s. I believe a carbon tax is a bad idea for the following reasons:

Carbon dioxide should not be seen as a pollutant but as a life-supporting gas essential to plant growth. Through photosynthesis, plants create food from CO2 and sunlight. Rising CO2 levels have contributed to global greening (the “aerial fertiliser effect”) and increased agricultural productivity. These benefits may outweigh potential climate risks, raising doubts about taxing CO2 emissions.

Uncertainty undermines the case for aggressive emissions cuts, since the link between reducing CO2 and lowering extreme weather impacts is tenuous. Cost-effective defensive measures — such as infrastructure improvements — are more reliable than global CO2 controls.

Policy priorities should be: eliminating harmful energy regulations, pursuing localised defences against extreme weather, and considering Pigouvian CO2 taxes only with broad international cooperation. Otherwise, unilateral emissions reductions risk economic harm and energy insecurity.

Anna Aarts

Fence or fiction?

Re: “A border fence too far”, (Editorial, Sept 2).

I have seen various items on social media that Thai people have contributed vast sums of money in order to construct a wall between Thailand and Cambodia. On the other hand, however, I have neither seen anything in the newspaper nor heard anything from the government about undertaking such a project. So are there approved plans to, or is someone perpetrating a tremendous scam on the people?

Wondering

Crank column

Oh dear, PostBag has degenerated into a tit-for-tat rant fest again. I have many times requested a crank column be inserted somewhere else, possibly in the Life section. I almost miss Eric Barht’s contributions, not that I agreed with him on most things. I assume he has retired from PostBag or moved to a different platform.

SONGKHLA: The National Security Council (NSC), in partnership with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA), has led ambassadors and embassy officials from 21 countries on a three-day visit to Songkhla in a bid to reshape perceptions about safety in Thailand’s southern border provinces.

The visit, held under the programme “Songkhla: Enhancing Better Understanding and Fostering Cooperation” from Monday to Wednesday, showcased the province’s cultural diversity, history and business potential. Eight journalists from international and Thai media also joined the trip.

Chatchai Bangchuad, Secretary-General of the NSC, said that the government is committed to resolving the long-standing unrest in the southern border region, emphasising that most areas are peaceful and are experiencing increasing growth in trade and tourism.

He highlighted Songkhla as a model, noting: “We want ambassadors to see for themselves that only a handful of districts face security concerns. The majority of the South remains calm, with strong economic opportunities.”

The diplomatic delegation was welcomed by Songkhla governor, Chotnarin Kerdsom, who highlighted the province’s strengths as a maritime hub with cultural and culinary diversity, a strong agricultural sector, and strategic transport links by rail, road, and air. Local souvenirs, such as Ko Yo printed fabric and traditional palm-woven garlands, were presented to the guests.

Throughout the tour, the ambassadors saw historical landmarks, museums, and cultural performances.

They also visited Sri Trang Gloves, the world’s largest exporter of medical rubber gloves, and the Sadao Customs House, which is developing a new fast-track border system.

The itinerary also included Prince of Songkla University and its science park, emphasising the province’s academic and research strengths.

Diplomats also joined “Songkhla Business Night”, where local entrepreneurs introduced distinctive food, beverages and wellness services.

Menus ranged from traditional tofu dishes to fusion cocktails blending local fruits with palm spirit, reflecting the province’s mix of heritage and innovation.

Ping Kitnikone, Canada’s ambassador to Thailand, described the visit as “an important opportunity to better understand the realities on the ground”.

She noted that Canadian tourists are already drawn to the region.

“Thailand deserves credit for promoting safety and highlighting the richness of its communities,” she said. “This trip has shown the diversity and resilience that make Songkhla appealing.”

Swiss ambassador, Felipe Zwahlende la Morena Casado, who visited Songkhla for the fourth time, said he had “never felt alarmed” travelling in the area and stressed that the region’s industrial and tourism strengths should not be overlooked.

“It is time to consider adjusting travel advisories in line with the actual situation,” he remarked, while also urging Thai media to highlight more positive stories from the South.

Norwegian ambassador, Astrid Emilie Helle, said the trip offered crucial insights for her government.

“We remain cautious about safety in southern Thailand, but this visit has shown us a beautiful and welcoming province,” she said. “I will report back to Oslo with updated impressions and commend the Thai government’s efforts here.”

Mr Chatchai added that inviting diplomats from economies with strong trade and investment potential would help generate accurate assessments, reducing outdated concerns.

“Trusted voices like ambassadors can take back first-hand observations to their capitals, leading to more balanced travel guidance and stronger cooperation in tourism and commerce,” he said.

Agricultural innovation and sustainable growth took centre stage at Farm Expo 2025, where CLP Group led the way in presenting new technologies, knowledge and partnerships under the theme ‘Empowering A Better Life.’ The event at IMPACT Muang Thong Thani highlighted how the company is moving beyond machinery to create a platform of opportunity that drives real transformation for Thai farmers and entrepreneurs.

This year, CLP Group went beyond displaying machinery and technology, creating a true ‘platform of opportunity’ for farmers, entrepreneurs and value chain partners to see how agricultural transformation can begin today.

Highlight Zones Driving Real Impact

Empowering Income – Visitors explored innovations such as the TEC Biomass Dryer, which reduces energy costs by more than 30%, and the CBR350 Rice Mill, which increases product value by up to 20% compared with traditional methods. These solutions reaffirm that CLP’s technology is not merely machinery but a tool to enhance farmers’ income and long-term security.

Empowering Knowledge – Expert-led forums covered strategies across the value chain, from seed selection and processing innovation to premium market positioning. Participants-including entrepreneurs, farmer groups, students and the public-confirmed they left with practical insights for application in their own fields.

Empowering Network – CLP also created spaces for farmers and local entrepreneurs to connect with business partners, leading to pilot orders and promising future collaborations.

Building a Foundation for the Future

A key milestone of this year’s expo was the signing of an MoU with Rajamangala University of Technology Srivijaya to advance research and development in agricultural technologies. The partnership aims to foster innovation that can be practically applied in farming communities while supporting sustainable business models.

In addition, CLP’s Chief Executive Officer, Vachara Leegomonchai, engaged with teachers and students on the theme ‘The Future of Agriculture and Innovation.’ These discussions will feed into the upcoming Green Academy Leaders initiative, designed to nurture a new generation of youth leaders with the vision to drive sustainable agriculture and environmental stewardship.

Honouring Agricultural Innovators

Another highlight was the presentation of the CLP Agricultural Innovator Awards 2025, which recognised outstanding farmers who have pioneered innovations across multiple categories. The awards underscore CLP’s commitment to celebrating farmers not only as producers but also as true developers and changemakers within the agricultural sector.

Miss Vachara Leegomonchai, Chief Executive Officer of CLP Group, remarked: ‘For us, ‘Empowering A Better Life’ is not just a slogan-it is a promise. This event proves that farmers and entrepreneurs can return home with the knowledge, tools and networks needed to build secure and sustainable livelihoods.’

The success of Farm Expo 2025 confirms that CLP Group is not only a leader in agricultural machinery but is also stepping forward as a partner for growth for Thai farmers. By building a connected value chain from farm to global markets, CLP continues to advance its vision of ‘Empowering A Better Life’ at every level of society.

The Board of Directors of Thai Oil Public Company Limited has approved the Asset Monetization plan, which will raise over THB 18 billion to strengthen the Company’s financial position and reduce debt, while continuing to utilise the leased assets through a leaseback arrangement without interrupting ongoing operations. The company plans to propose the project for shareholders approval on 9 December 2025.

Thai Oil Public Company Limited (TOP) led by Mr Bandhit Thamprajamchit, Chief Executive Officer and President of Thai Oil Plc, stated that on 25 September 2025, the Board approved the establishment of a new subsidiary, with PTT Tank holding a 49% stake. This subsidiary will invest in a 21-year long-term lease of selected infrastructure assets, located in Si Racha District, Chonburi Province, including crude oil storage tanks, Single Buoy Mooring (SBM), lorry loading station, and associated land.

TOP is entering a leaseback arrangement of the assets back to the company for ongoing oil refinery business. Upon completion of the transaction, the Company will realise additional cash inflows, thereby reinforcing its financial position, improving key financial ratios, and enhancing its capital recycling.

‘This Asset Monetization initiative is aligned with the Company’s strategic direction to strengthen its financial position. This transaction will provide stable long-term cash inflows from leased assets while allowing TOP to continue utilising them in its operations. It also creates additional value from existing infrastructure assets and helps reduce long-term financial risks amid dynamic economic and industrial environments,’ added Bandhit.

The collaboration with PTT Tank, the flagship infrastructure and logistics company of PTT Group’s refining and petrochemical businesses, will create synergies and enhance efficiency in integrated asset management operations.

Bandhit further stated that upon the establishment of the transaction, the Company has reviewed and considered the impacts on all stakeholders with primary emphasis on the interests of the Company and its shareholders. To ensure the transparency, the Board of Directors has appointed Capital Advantage Company Limited as the Independent Financial Advisor to assess the appropriateness of the transaction and prepare a report for shareholders’ consideration. The Company will convene the Extraordinary General Meeting of Shareholders on 9 December 2025 via electronic platform. The record date to determine shareholders eligible to attend the meeting is set for 9 October 2025.

The asset management company (AMC) planned to address the bad debts of retail borrowers will cover 3.8 million eligible debtors with a total debt value of 120 billion baht, according to the Finance Ministry.

Finance permanent secretary Lavaron Sangsnit said the new AMC will be established as a joint venture between the public and private sectors. The company will take over debts of up to 100,000 baht per debtor from financial institutions, then restructure these debts to make monthly repayments more manageable.

This should ease the burden on small borrowers, allowing them more disposable income for consumption, which in turn will help stimulate the economy, said Mr Lavaron.

There are 1.4 million small borrowers with commercial banks that owe a total of 35 billion baht, and another 2.4 million small borrowers with non-bank institutions that owe 85 billion baht.

He said the funding for the AMC to purchase debts from financial institutions will come from allocations by the Bank of Thailand. These funds originate from contributions commercial banks are required to make to tackle the Financial Institutions Development Fund’s debt problem.

During the pandemic, part of this money was used to support entrepreneurs under the “Khun Soo Rao Chuey” (You Fight, We Help) programme. Of the 36 billion baht allocated, 26 billion remains and will be earmarked to establish the AMC, said Mr Lavaron.

New Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas stated in parliament during the government’s recent policy announcement the new AMC for household debt restructuring will increase liquidity for Thais.

For example, he said borrowers previously making instalment payments of 2,000-3,000 baht per month to financial institutions may, after restructuring, pay only 500 baht.

The household debt resolution policy was dubbed one of the government’s five key pillars to be implemented within four months. Other policies include:

Stimulating the economy and tourism through the “Khon La Khrueng Plus” co-payment scheme, expected to launch at the end of October.

Providing liquidity support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) by having the Thai Credit Guarantee Corporation provide guarantees totalling 50 billion baht for businesses in the supply chains of large companies. If large businesses support SMEs under the “Big Brother Helps Little Brother” scheme, the Revenue Department will allow these expenses to be deducted from taxes.

Increasing personal savings for retirement by having the Government Lottery Office allocate part of its marketing budget to savings accounts for those who purchase online lottery tickets. Each buyer receives an individual savings account that can be withdrawn at age 55. This programme is separate from the “retirement lottery” scheme.

Developing workforce skills for future industries, including bio-agriculture, smart farming, artificial intelligence and digital technology, data centres and electric vehicles. The Board of Investment has a Competitiveness Enhancement Fund worth 10 billion baht that can be allocated in collaboration with the private sector to select workers for reskilling and upskilling.

The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration’s (BMA) new waste separation initiative, “This House Doesn’t Mix”, has drawn an enthusiastic response from city residents, with more than 700,000 households registering since its launch on Wednesday, according to Pornprom Vikitsreth, the governor’s sustainability adviser.

Mr Pornprom, together with representatives from the National Housing Authority (NHA), visited the Kheha Huai Khwang housing community yesterday to observe operations at the local waste sorting facility and encourage proper waste management practices.

To drive household participation, the BMA introduced a new waste collection ordinance effective Oct 1. Under the rules, general households are charged 60 baht per month for waste collection. However, those who register with the programme pay only 20 baht per month.

Since the policy took effect, the programme has already exceeded expectations, doubling its initial target, he said. Of the 700,000 registrants, about 300,000 were individual households, while 400,000 represented groups such as apartments and housing estates.

Mr Pornprom said participation is expected to grow by 30% next year.

In recognition of local support, deputy governor Jakkapan Phiewngam presented awards to district offices with the highest participation rates.

Six districts were highlighted: Lat Phrao (14.57%), Samphanthawong (20.91%), Phra Khanong (14.52%), Bueng Kum (19.96%), Bangkok Yai (17.35%), and Phasicharoen (13.38%).

Khlong Sam Wa district was recognised for having the highest number of individual participants (14,487).

Guru By Bangkok Post’s pick of the most exciting products, activities, food and travel to indulge in. Capella Bangkok’s Côte by Mauro Colagreco marks its fifth anniversary with a culinary celebration, uniting three chefs. For two nights only, Côte’s executive chef Davide Garavaglia will be joined by Mauro Colagreco and Himanshu Saini, executive chef of Dubai’s Trèsind Studio. The menu will blends culture, tradition and innovation.

Culinary collab / Mia / Oct 9

For one night only, on Oct 9, chef Sam Aisbett of Akuna, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, will be joining chefs Pongcharn “Top” Russell and Michelle Goh in the Mia kitchen. Chef Aisbett will present an eight-course tasting menu that fuses his bold, modern Australian roots with Mia’s contemporary European flair. Expect a vibrant celebration of Vietnam’s produce, indigenous herbs and Bangkok’s dynamic culinary spirit.

Wine tour / Le Meridien Bangkok / Oct 8

Le Méridien Bangkok will host an evening of discovery with “El Arte del Vino – The Art of Spanish Wine”, a curated celebration of Spain’s most prestigious wine regions paired with contemporary European cuisine. The dinner will be staged at Tempo on Oct 8. Diners will be transported from the Mediterranean shores of Catalonia to the highlands of Ribera del Duero and the distinctive vineyards of Bierzo.

Four-hands dinner / Pullman Bangkok King Power / Oct 9-12

From Oct 9-12, Pullman Bangkok King Power will offer the elegance of French cuisine and the warmth of Mexican flavours. Chefs Charles Coulombeau from La Maison dans le Parc, Nancy, France, and Enrique Casarrubias from Oxte, Paris, France, will offer a six-course set menu blending refined techniques. On Oct 11-12, there will be a brunch offering at Deja Vu and Dusk, where a 10-course menu will be complemented by a welcome caviar trolley and an unlimited charcuterie trolley.

One night only / Jampa x Maison Brotte / Oct 9

Jampa, Phuket will host a one-night-only culinary journey with Maison Brotte, which will pair wine with seasonal creations on Oct 9. Maison Brotte is a historic ChSteauneuf-du-Pape estate from France.

Four-hands dinner / Blue by Alain Ducasse x Baan Tepa / Oct 8

Blue by Alain Ducasse will join hands with Baan Tepa to offer a four-hands collab between chefs Evens Lopez and Chudaree “Tam” Debhakam. The dinner will be six-courses.

Wellness Festival / The Peninsula Bangkok / Oct 3-5

The Wellness Festival returns to The Peninsula Bangkok from Oct 3-5. The festival brings together wellness experts to lead a diverse programme of activities, including mindful movement, yoga, sound healing, ice bath therapy and nutrition workshops, each designed to nurture body, mind and spirit. There will be hybrid training with Coach Coke Kajohnsin; ice bath therapy with Suthida Krishnapala; sound healing and ayurveda wellness with Ornphicha Mahasintuan; SUP and Soul Aqua Yoga with Kru Aom; and cooking classes with chefs Antonio Bitetto, Ying Monnipa Rungthong and Hans Zahner hands-on sessions exploring fitness, nutrition and health-focused gastronomy designed to inspire wellness through food.

Pet care / Impact Exhibition and Convention Centre / Oct 9-12

The International Pet Variety Exhibition 2025 returns for its 15th edition under the theme, ‘Annyeong: BFF In Korea’. Organised by Impact Exhibition Management, in collaboration with the Thai Pet Product Industries Association and Perfect Companion Group, the event will be held at Halls 7-8, Impact Exhibition and Convention Centre. More than 10,000m² will be transformed to an immersive Korean village made for pets and their humans. The 15th anniversary edition will host more than 250 booths, showcasing a wide variety of pet products and services from Thailand and around the world. From grooming essentials to pet wellness, food, fashion and technology, the event brings together manufacturers, exporters, distributors and retailers across the entire pet care ecosystem.

EAT

Eleven dishes / Asiatique Ancient Tea House / Until Nov 30

Asiatique Ancient Tea House is offering a curated collection of 11 signature dishes. The restaurant’s talented chefs have crafted a selection of delectable dim sum, including Charcoal shrimp har gao with truffle and boiled pork and shrimp dumplings; Fish maw in red gravy; Crispy noodles with chicken gravy; Black grouper with black bean sauce on rice noodles; and Sichuan-style mala beef noodles.

Timeless classic / Le Méridien Chiang Rai

Le Méridien Chiang Rai Resort is offering its signature Beef khao soi at Latest Recipe. The narrative of this signature dish begins with the careful selection of premium beef shank, chosen for its delicate marbling and rich flavour. The beef is meticulously slow-simmered for three to four hours to achieve a remarkably tender, melt-in-the-mouth texture. It is served with Yunnan pickled mustard greens, pickled rakkyo and house-made pork crackling. The dish is presented with both soft-boiled and crispy fried noodles, finished with a touch of chilli oil and a wedge of lime.

Maguro omakase / Kisara

Embark on an extraordinary culinary journey at Kisara at Conrad Bangkok, with the launch of the exclusive “Maguro Omakase” experience. Curated by executive chef Ryan Dadufalza, the 10-course dinner showcases the finest cuts of premium maguro, flown in fresh from Japan and prepared with masterful precision and artistry. Available only on Friday and Saturday evenings.

Afternoon tea / Tea and Tipple

As seasons change city, Tea and Tipple at Centara Grand at CentralWorld is offering the autumn afternoon tea delight with sweeping skyline views with handcrafted delights. The menu features scones with jam and clotted cream, smoked salmon mille-feuille with avocado, pan-seared foie gras on brioche, lobster rolls and smoked turkey with Gruyère and cranberry. Sweet creations include pistachio choux, orange cake, chocolate mille-feuille, macarons and silky pralines. Tea and Tipple tempts with gourmet Pascucci coffee, Mariage Frères teas, curated whisky flights and a considered selection of cocktails and fine spirits.

Bold flavours / Viu

Viu at The St. Regis Bangkok is offering a tailor-made lunch set where diners can choose between two or three courses. The Epic Dinner begins with a seafood tower, fresh sushi and sashimi, and the pizza of the day, all served family-style at the table. The October highlights include Le fritture all’Italiana; Tagliatelle with black mussels sauce; Wagyu beef cheeks with polenta; alongside premium grilles, including Australian Wagyu beef striploin, Australian lamb rack and a special serving of Boston lobster tail per guest. The Signature Sunday Brunch will offer game meat specialties. Guests can savour Stir-fried wild boar with thai herbs; Venison carpaccio with Grana Padano and arugula; Homemade wild rabbit ravioli; Handmade tagliatelle with duck ragout; and Crocodile skewers.

New venue / Khao Lak Marriott Beach Resort and Spa

Khao Lak Marriott Beach Resort and Spa recently unveiled Panasia Grill, a new dining destination where fire, flavour and creativity converge. Panasia Grill offers guests a ‘grill-it-yourself’ experience featuring premium cuts of meat, fresh seafood, seasonal vegetables and curated beverage pairings. The interior reflects the grilling concept with charred wood textures, rock-clad walls inspired by charcoal, and artistic features that evoke the heat and vibrance of the flames. The bar serves as a lively prelude to the evening, with a wide selection of craft beers, wines and select sakes. Panasia Grill also integrates art as a central element of its identity. Playful and thought-provoking artworks reinterpret Asian heritage with a modern twist, offering visual surprises throughout the space. Think a Qing-era noblewoman whimsically blowing bubblegum.

TRAVEL

Kids programme / Melia Pattaya

Meliá Pattaya Hotel is helping to enhance the family-friendly credentials with an array of kid-focused draws. The Kidsdom is a dedicated space where children can unleash their creativity and energy. The schedule features plaster doll-painting, whale headband craft, balloon art, paper mosaics and keychain workshops.

New regional route / AirAsia / Until Oct 31

In time for year-end celebration, AirAsia has introduced a new cross-region route between Chiang Mai and Udon Thani, operating four times per week. To celebrate the new flight, passengers can book promotional rates until Oct 31 while flights operate from Dec 1 to March 28, 2026.

STUFF

Plump look / Gucci Beauty

Achieve a healthy-looking glow and a plumped, even complexion in an instant with Gucci Beauty’s new effortless natural face duo: Gucci Glow Skin Tint and Gucci Matte Powder. Designed to care, even and blur, the products make it easy to create a fresh, natural makeup look that lasts all day. Gucci Glow Skin Tint is a lightweight foundation with the benefits of a hydrating cream. It is available in 20 shades. The Gucci Matte Powder can be used alone or paired with the Gucci Glow Skin Tint and is available in 10 shades.

New collection / Cos

Cos has unveiled its Autumn/Winter 2025 campaign, presenting a modern wardrobe where elegance meets ease. The collection is defined by fine materials, precise tailoring and subtle yet striking details. Womenswear offers a wardrobe designed to transition from day to evening. Structured 1950’s-inspired silhouettes emphasise the waist with feminine cuts and open necklines, while a wool coat is shaped by rounded, meticulously constructed lines. Menswear explores sartorial design through the lens of modern utility. Heritage references emerge through outerwear, heavy knitwear and relaxed tailoring, with traditional forms reinterpreted – inside-out lapels, oversized proportions and sharp shoulders bring an edge to classic designs.

New change / Disney+

Disney+ Hotstar will be rebranded as Disney+ in Thailand on Oct 9 while Hulu becomes the global general entertainment brand on Disney+, replacing Star. Thai fans can look forward to an exciting slate of US, Korean and Japanese originals arriving soon on the Hulu tile. Among the highly anticipated titles are Ryan Murphy’s legal drama All’s Fair, featuring Glenn Close, Kim Kardashian and Niecy Nash; the Korean romantic comedy Would You Marry Me, starring Choi Woo-shik and Jung So-min; the Korean thriller The Manipulated with Ji Changwook and Doh Kyungsoo; and the coming-of-age Japanese anime Wandance.

The body of a young Chinese man who went missing after drowning off Nai Harn beach on Wednesday was found floating near Koh Moo, off Ya Nui beach in Muang district on Friday morning.

The tourist went missing while swimming at Nai Harn beach at around 2.48pm on Oct 1, the Maritime Enforcement Command Centre Region 3 said on Friday. The centre identified the Chinese tourist as Yuan Wenyi, 21.

This prompted VAdm Weerudom Muangjeen, commander of the Third Naval area and director of the Maritime Enforcement Command Centre (MECC), to order a full-scale search operation, involving naval units, the tambon Rawai municipality, lifeguards and rescue teams.

Search efforts covered the area from Nai Harn beach to Ao Sen, extending to Ya Nui beach and Koh Kaeo, including coastal and rocky zones. Despite extensive efforts, the missing tourist had not been located.

On Friday morning, rescuers resumed the search along the rocky coastline from Ya Nui beach to Promthep Cape.

The body was later found floating in the sea near Koh Moo, off Ya Nui beach, at about 10am. Rescuers brought the body to shore at the search centre in front of Nai Harn beach. It was later handed over to authorities for autopsy and legal procedures, said the MECC Region 3.

Thailand’s new minister of tourism and sports has vowed to start collecting a 300-baht tourism tax during his four-month term and instructed the relevant parties to communicate the benefits of the scheme to visitors.

Artthakorn Sirilatthayakorn said on Friday that the tax is important because the proceeds go to fund insurance coverage for visitors as well as tourism infrastructure development.

He acknowledged the additional cost could affect sentiment, as foreign travellers have voiced concerns about it in social media discussions in the past.

The idea is far from new. It was first mooted in 2020 and finally received cabinet approval in February 2023. But the previous four tourism ministers were unable or unwilling to initiate collection.

Though a study was completed on the benefits of the tax, it still has not been adopted because of concerns about the potential impact on tourism sentiment.

The rate approved in 2003 was 300 baht per person for arrivals by air and 150 baht for land or sea entries.

Former minister Sorawong Thienthong vowed earlier this year to start collecting the tax by the end of 2025, but he later changed his mind.

‘If we impose this tax, we must communicate how much tourists could benefit from it,’ said Mr Artthakorn.

Speaking during a visit to the ministry on Friday, he said new campaigns were planned in the fourth quarter to lift spending and arrivals. By the end of October, the ministry also aims to finalise the budget that was left over from a 1.76-billion-baht domestic subsidy scheme.

The new administration has also emphasised the importance of ensuring tourism safety and finding a way to bring foreign arrivals back to the pre-pandemic level of nearly 40 million, the minister said.

Thailand is currently on course to welcome about 33.4 million foreign arrivals in 2025, down from 35.5 million last year.

Mr Artthakorn said he had set targets for the fourth quarter this year and the first quarter next year, but was not ready to disclose these figures yet.