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Phuket authorities have launched a sweeping infrastructure blueprint aimed at easing traffic congestion, improving water security, and upgrading marine transport links to boost the island’s role as a regional hub.

Governor Sophon Suwannarat recently chaired a seminar attended by 29 foreign consuls, state agencies, and the private sector. The forum highlighted progress on nine major road projects, a long-term water supply plan, and the Yamu Port upgrade into an Andaman marina hub.

The Department of Highways reported nine schemes to address chronic traffic bottlenecks, particularly between Phuket city and the airport. Key works include the 650-million-baht expansion of Highway 4027 from Ban Thalang to Ban Muang Mai, due for completion in 2026, and a new highway link from Ban Muang Mai to the airport, targeted for 2028.

Other projects cover improvements to Highway 402 from Khok Kloi to Phuket town, costing 700 million baht, and construction of Highway 4030, from Thalang to Rawai Beach, for 325 million baht.

There are also a plan to build Highway 4025, from Tha Ruea to Choeng Thale, at a cost of 420 million baht and Highway 4031, from Mud Dok Khao to Phuket International Airport, with a 185 million baht price tag.

Some are also under survey and design, including a consultancy project for Highway 402-Sarasin Bridge, a feasibility study on a new highway route from Ban Pa Khlok to Ban Bang Khu and a plan for Highway 4023, from Phuket town to Cape Panwa, with a cost of 200 million baht.

Traffic management on Highway 402, Phuket’s main artery, is also being enhanced with redesigned intersections and safety measures across nine locations.

In parallel, the Provincial Waterworks Authority is advancing a plan to divert raw water from Ratchaprapa Dam in Surat Thani to Phuket, he said.

The proposal, structured as a public-private partnership, is undergoing feasibility and impact assessments. Officials expect tender documents to be ready by late 2027, ensuring long-term water security for Phuket and neighbouring provinces.

Marine infrastructure is another focus. The Marine Department is steering plans to redevelop Yamu Port in Thalang district into a community marina aligned with the government’s Andaman masterplan. The design phase is complete, with environmental assessments and dredging studies to follow. The project aims to provide year-round safe access for yachts, boost maritime tourism, and position Phuket as a competitive marina hub.

Governor Sophon said the integrated approach reflects Phuket’s vision of becoming a sustainable tourism and logistics centre.

“These projects are designed not only to relieve local problems such as traffic and water shortages but also to strengthen Phuket’s global connectivity and economic competitiveness,” he said.

An Asian man fell from a condominium tower in Pattaya, landing on a wall below that tore his body apart, early on Wednesday morning.

The gruesome discovery was reported to police about 12.30am.

The dead man was believed to be an Asian male aged 30 to 40 years and was found wearing a black T-shirt and shorts.

His falling body landed on top of the condo wall, which split it into upper and lower halves and scattered his internal organs across the road.

Police had yet to confirm which floor of which building he fell from, as the condo has three towers.

A witness reported hearing a loud thud, as though an object had landed violently on the ground. On investigating, he found the man’s body in its gruesome condition.

Investigators did find cigarette butts on a 32nd floor rooftop balcony and traces indicating someone may have been sitting on the ledge.

The investigation was ongoing.

Kobkarn Wattanavrangkul, Vice Chair of the Thai Chamber of Commerce (TCC), underscoring the relevance of King Rama IX’s Sufficiency Economy Philosophy (SEP) in society today, says it is not about ‘settling for less’ but about achieving sustainable, inclusive and enduring growth.

In a speech titled ‘Adaptation. For a Better World’ at the Sustainability Expo 2025 (SX2025) on Wednesday, Ms Kobkarn said the SEP is not reserved for corporations alone. Rather, it is a guiding principle for businesses, communities and individuals alike, she added.

She noted that the SEP has often been misunderstood. For years, some critics have assumed that the philosophy discourages economic progress, equating sufficiency with complacency, she said.

‘This old belief misled people into thinking SEP would never bring wealth,’ she said. ‘But in reality, SEP is about balance – growth that is sustainable, inclusive and enduring. Foreigners believe in Thailand – why don’t we?’

The sharing session that followed also featured international perspectives.

Vibeke Lyssand Leirvag, a Norwegian entrepreneur and Vice President of the Thai-Norwegian Chamber of Commerce, described how the SEP values shaped her jewellery company.

By prioritising employee well-being and transparency, the business scaled significantly while retaining a small team of 36 Thai staff, she said.

She encouraged companies in all sectors to embrace the SEP step-by-step: ‘Celebrate every little win. Invest in your people. Don’t expect overnight millions – you’ll lose them just as fast.’

Lester Khoo, International Affairs Director of Charoen Pokphand Foods, who hails from New Zealand, explained how the SEP aligns with the CPF’s role as a ‘sustainable kitchen of the world’.

Operating in 17 countries and feeding 4 billion people, the company follows three SEP-inspired principles: loyalty to the nation, benefit for the people and profit for the company, Mr Khoo said.

‘Moderation is key,’ he said. ‘Sustainability requires balance between business and nature.’

Another highlight of SX2025 was the session titled ‘Business Models Inspired by the Philosophy of Sufficiency Economy: Practical Applications and Sustainable Success’.

There, Ms Kobkarn introduced Sirikul Laukaikul, brand strategist and founder of Por Laew Dee: The Creators Project on the SEP, who emphasised that SEP is not limited to agriculture but can be adapted to any business model.

Several Thai entrepreneurs also showcased their success stories.

‘Penguin Eat Shabu’, founded by Thanapong Wongchinsri, shifted from competition to collaboration by creating Penguin X, a platform linking restaurants with academic partners.

Khao Thammachad, led by Chinnasri Phoolra-ao, built partnerships with bakeries to ensure fair incomes for rice farmers through transparent cost management.

Onson, founded by Thamwit Limlertcharoenwanich, transformed rice into a premium local liquor while reusing waste for cattle feed and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Biovech, created by Pawarith Raksaswaphokin, worked with communities in Nan to develop herbal-based cosmetics, creating over 200 jobs and attracting major brands.

As Thailand navigates economic challenges, Ms Kobkarn emphasised, responsible personal spending and a balanced approach are key to sustaining livelihoods and ensuring long-term growth.

‘Growth must be balanced and shared with all people,’ she said, calling on the younger generation to carry the Thai identity proudly into the global arena.

Echoing her remarks, Ms Sirikul added: ‘The king’s philosophy is not just guidance – it is practical know-how that has enabled Thailand to overcome challenges time and again.’

In today’s digital economy, more and more professionals are exploring trading-not just as a side interest, but as a strategic way to grow their income and take control of their financial future. Whether it’s about building a second stream of revenue, staying ahead of inflation, or simply making smarter use of savings, trading is becoming part of a broader lifestyle shift.

But trading successfully requires more than just market knowledge. It demands speed, precision, and access to the right tools-anytime, anywhere. That’s why XM’s launch of its new Progressive Web App (PWA) is making waves. This isn’t just a technical upgrade-it’s a rethinking of how trading fits into the lives of modern professionals.

Designed for a Life in Motion

Traditional trading platforms often force users to choose between power and portability. Desktop platforms offer robust tools but are tied to a desk. Mobile apps are convenient but often compromise on speed or functionality. For people who move between meetings, travel frequently, or manage multiple devices, this inconsistency can be a serious drawback.

XM’s new PWA solves this by offering a unified experience across all devices. Whether you’re using a browser on your work laptop, a phone during your commute, or a tablet at home, the interface remains consistent, fast, and fully functional. There’s no need to download multiple apps or adjust to different layouts. It’s seamless, intuitive, and built for flexibility.

Empowering Smarter Decisions

What makes XM’s PWA stand out isn’t just its accessibility-it’s how it helps users make better decisions, faster. The platform integrates TradingView charts, one of the most advanced charting tools available. This gives traders access to smart drawing tools, customisable layouts, and a wide range of technical indicators-all within the XM ecosystem.

For those who don’t have hours to analyse markets, this matters. You can spot trends, set alerts, and execute trades with minimal friction. The direct-to-trade interface ensures that opportunities can be seized instantly, without navigating through layers of menus or switching between apps.

Another standout feature is the XM AI assistant, which sits right next to the charts. It provides instant answers to trading questions-without interrupting your workflow. Whether you’re checking a technical term, looking for market insights, or exploring strategies, the assistant is there to help. It’s like having a knowledgeable partner by your side, 24/7.

Built for Real-World Conditions

One of the most overlooked aspects of trading platforms is how they perform under less-than-ideal conditions. Poor internet connections, outdated devices, or sudden updates can derail trades and cost money. XM’s PWA is built to handle these challenges. It’s lightweight, fast, and reliable, even under weak connections. Updates happen automatically in the background, so users always have the latest tools without interruptions.

This is especially relevant in dynamic environments-whether you’re working remotely, traveling, or simply navigating a busy schedule. The platform adapts to your lifestyle, not the other way around.

More Than Just Trading

XM’s PWA isn’t just about placing trades. It’s a comprehensive hub for managing your financial journey. Users can fund and withdraw accounts, chat with support, watch live educational sessions, and access promotions-all from the same interface. This holistic approach reflects a deeper understanding of what modern traders need: not just tools, but an ecosystem that supports learning, execution, and growth.

For those new to trading, this is especially essential. The learning curve can be steep, but XM’s integrated education and support features make it easier to get started and stay informed.

Setting a New Standard

The timing of this launch is no coincidence. XM recently celebrated its 15th anniversary, and the PWA is part of a broader strategy to reinforce its ‘clients first’ philosophy. With two successful promotions already this year and hints of a major bonus campaign on the horizon, the broker is clearly investing in its user base.

But beyond marketing, the PWA signals something more profound: a shift in industry standards. As competition among brokers intensifies, platforms that fail to offer seamless, intelligent, and reliable experiences will fall behind. XM is not just keeping up-it’s setting the pace. Sign Up Here

If you’re someone who values efficiency, clarity, and control in your financial decisions, XM’s new PWA is worth exploring. It’s not just a tool-it’s a strategic asset. By removing friction, enhancing decision-making, and offering a consistent experience across devices, it allows traders to focus on what really matters: making smart moves in the market.

In a world where time is money and opportunities don’t wait, having the right platform can make all the difference. XM’s PWA delivers that edge.

Explore the platform and start trading smarter today.

The government has approved a central budget of 864 million baht for the Royal Thai Army to enhance border security amid rising tensions along the Thai-Cambodian frontier, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul revealed on Wednesday.

The funds were approved during the cabinet meeting held immediately after his policy address to parliament on Tuesday, a move which underscores the urgency in addressing border issues and ensuring national sovereignty, Mr Anutin said. The premier said the approval had not been delayed and emphasised that the budget is designed to enhance the army’s readiness to respond to emerging security situations at the Thai-Cambodian border.

He declined to confirm whether the funds would be used for constructing border fencing, citing security concerns. However, he said the financial support would enable the armed forces to better protect the country’s sovereignty during this sensitive period. The matter will also be discussed at today’s meeting of the National Security Council (NSC), where several related issues, including the appointment of a new chair of the Thai-Cambodian Joint Boundary Commission (JBC), are on the agenda. The current chairman’s term ends on the same day.

Responding to Cambodia’s recent petition to the International Court of Justice to rule on the ownership of the disputed Ta Kwai and Ta Muen Thom temples, Mr Anutin said Thailand has a clear stance on this matter and would firmly uphold its national interests. “Cambodia has the right to file the case, but Thailand will continue to follow its established protocols,” he said.

New Second Army Region Commander Lt Gen Weerayut Raksin, who oversees the northeastern border area, said yesterday that Thai troops remain fully prepared and vigilant. “While Cambodia has at times employed military provocations, Thai forces are exercising restraint and avoiding escalation,” he said. Lt Gen Weerayut assumed the role of commander following Lt Gen Boonsin’s mandatory retirement.

Sansiri Public Company Limited (SIRI) reaffirmed its leadership in the Thai property market, reporting nine-month sales of THB 39 billion-equivalent to 74% of its full-year sales target and a 5% year-on-year increase, despite ongoing challenges in the real estate sector.

During the first nine months of 2025, Sansiri recorded 19 project sell-outs worth THB 21 billion and built a strong backlog of THB 23 billion, securing about 50% of this year’s revenue recognition. With more than 10 additional projects nearing sell-out, the company signals a stable growth trajectory.

Mr. Wicharn Wiriyapushit, Chief Financial Officer, said the sales momentum was driven largely by condominiums, with strong demand for new launches including Vallez House, Wydden by Sansiri, and Self by Sansiri, which together generated THB 3.4 billion. In Phuket, Setthasiri Koh Kaew Retreat achieved a robust VVIP pre-sale, with over 30% of units sold prior to launch, while show-house sales alone contributed more than THB 1 billion.

The company also reported a solid pipeline of seven ready-to-move-in condominium projects, valued at THB 9.6 billion-including The Base Urban Rama 9, FLO by Sansiri, Dcondo Calm Ramkhamhaeng 40, The Muve Paw Bangkae, Canvas Cherngtalay Phuket, Maken House Chiang Mai, and Dcondo Campus Khon Kaen-which will support revenue in the final quarter.

Sansiri continues to navigate a sluggish property market with prudent yet flexible strategies, focusing on effective cash-flow management, portfolio diversification, and partnerships for future development. Leveraging its strong brand, design innovation, and after-sales service, the company remains confident of sustaining growth.

In the last quarter of 2025, Sansiri will launch seven new projects worth THB 18 billion, including Setthasiri Koh Kaew Retreat, Burasiri Chatuchot, Saransiri Chatuchot, and a new condominium in Kathu, Phuket. The firm will also debut its new Sansiri Community at Chatuchot on 185 rai, featuring the first two projects Burasiri Chatuchot and Saransiri Chatuchot, with pre-sales set for 4-5 October 2025.

The chief physician of Police General Hospital has been transferred to an inactive post, effective from Oct 1, following a six-month suspension of his medical licence for his role in helping former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra avoid doing prison time.

National police chief Kittharath Punpetch signed the order transferring Dr Taweesilp Wechawitarn, who also holds the rank of police lieutenant-general, to the Royal Thai Police Operations Centre.

The transfer order noted a resolution passed by the Medical Council of Thailand on May 8, when it voted to suspend Dr Taweesilp’s medical licence for six months, effective from Oct 1.

The council said any violation of the suspension by continuing to practise medicine would constitute an offence under the Medical Profession Act.

The Royal Thai Police subsequently set up a fact-finding committee in July to investigate alleged misconduct involving Pol Lt Gen Taweesilp and another senior physician, Pol Lt Gen Sophonrat Singhajaru. The investigation is still under way.

The two have been accused of helping Thaksin receive privileged treatment in a luxury ward on the 14th floor of the hospital.

The Medical Council concluded that the doctors provided false or misleading medical documents or information regarding Thaksin’s health to facilitate his extended hospital stay.

It suspended Pol Lt Gen Sophonrat’s licence for three months and Pol Lt Gen Taweesilp’s licence for six months, starting Oct 1.

Given the suspension of his medical licence and the pending inquiry, police authorities deemed it inappropriate for Pol Lt Gen Taweesilp to continue in his current role, the order said.

The reassignment would ensure transparency, fairness and prevent potential damage to the force, it added.

Pol Lt Gen Paiboon Chiamanukulkit, a senior physician at Police General Hospital, has been named acting chief physician, effective from Oct 1 to March 31 next year. (Story continues below)

Behind bars

On Sept 9, the Supreme Court ordered Thaksin, 76, to actually serve the year’s imprisonment to which he was sentenced two years ago, rejecting his prolonged stay in hospital as part of his sentence.

The court said it considered as illegitimate the transfer of Thaksin from Bangkok Remand Prison shortly after his arrival there on Aug 22, 2023, after he complained of chest pain.

The billionaire and former Manchester City Football Club owner had returned to Thailand that same day after 15 years in self-imposed exile. He stayed at the police hospital instead of in prison until his parole in February 2024.

The former prime minister is now in the maximum-security Klong Prem Central Prison.

Exports are expected to grow by 6-7% this year, surpassing the previous target of 2-3%, according to the Commerce Ministry.

At an online policy briefing on Wednesday, Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthumpun outlined seven key policies as part of a “Quick Big Win” strategy aimed at addressing economic challenges and enhancing the country’s trade and export capabilities.

She said using these strategies, exports are projected to expand by 6-7% year-on-year, exceeding previous estimates of 2-3%. The average monthly export value is expected to reach US$24 billion in the last four months of the year, with total exports anticipated to exceed 12 trillion baht in 2025.

Mrs Suphajee said the priorities in the next four months include finalising the agreement on reciprocal tariffs with the US, updating the rules of origin, and fully digitising certificates of origin to enhance transparency and prevent fraudulent claims.

Despite the US government shutdown, she said tariff discussions between the two nations continue uninterrupted.

To increase exports in the final quarter, the ministry plans to promote the use of existing free trade agreements (FTAs) and explore new markets such as Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, South Africa, India and Vietnam, as well as facilitate business matching.

Moreover, the ministry expects to finalise an FTA with South Korea by the end of this year and conclude key issues on a pact with the EU in the first quarter of 2026.

Mrs Suphajee said the ministry organised Blue Flag fairs to ease living costs in areas affected by the border dispute with Cambodia, and is providing a 100-baht-per-parcel transport subsidy with Thailand Post for small businesses in affected provinces.

Another goal is to develop alternative marketing channels and new markets to mitigate risks for businesses in the area, she said.

Cost of living

The ministry also signed a memorandum of understanding with more than 100 private hospitals to disclose medicine prices before payment, giving people the option to purchase medicines outside hospitals. This initiative is expected to save 32.4 billion baht annually, reduce overcrowding in public hospitals, and encourage greater use of private hospital services. A progress review is scheduled for Oct 7.

In addition, the ministry hosts around 1,300 Blue Flag fairs annually, helping consumers save more than 5 billion baht a year.

Stabilise crop prices

To support rice farmers, the ministry is offering low-interest loans to delay sales and prevent a glut, as well as subsidies of 1,000 baht per rai to 4.6 million farming households. Mrs Suphajee said the ministry is also pursuing rice trade deals with China, Japan and Singapore.

The ministry wants to strengthen the competitiveness and enhance the value of Thai products, with initiatives expanding access to new markets, providing credit support, and promoting quality certifications such as Thailand Trust Mark and Thai Select.

Artificial intelligence is being used to analyse supply and demand trends to ensure timely trade measures, while e-commerce channels are being expanded to connect local products with global markets.

True Corporation’s commitment to innovation has been recognised on the national stage as True CyberSafe, the company’s intelligent cyber-threat protection system, won the 2025 National Innovation Award in the Social and Environmental category. The achievement reflects True’s role in developing innovations that help build a safe, trusted and reliable digital society for every Thai connection. On this occasion, Dr Chutima Aimchotchawalit (right), Chairman of the National Innovation Board of Thailand, presented the 2025 National Innovation Award in the Social and Environmental category, Large and Medium Enterprise segment, to True Corporation Plc., represented by Mr Sharad Mehrotra (centre), Chief Consumer Business Officer, and Dr Naetchanok Wipatasinlapin (left), Head of Sustainability Division, in recognition of True’s outstanding innovation initiatives that deliver clear and lasting value to society and the nation.

At the event, Dr Sumet Tantivejkul, Chairman of the Thai Rice Foundation under Royal Patronage, together with Dr Krithpaka Boonfueng, Executive Director of the National Innovation Agency (Public Organisation), extended their congratulations to the True innovation team behind True CyberSafe at the 2025 National Innovation Day. The event was organised by the National Innovation Agency (Public Organisation), Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, at Dusit Thani Hotel, Bangkok.

Mr Sharad Mehrotra, Chief Consumer Business Officer of True Corporation Plc., stated: ‘The National Innovation Award that True CyberSafe has received this year is not only a proud achievement for True but also a reflection of our unwavering commitment to being an innovation-driven organisation. We are determined to leverage our robust digital infrastructure and comprehensive ecosystem to raise the standards of online safety. We believe that building a trusted digital society is a crucial step towards becoming a Customer Champion, delivering the best possible experiences to our customers. True CyberSafe was therefore developed with intelligent AI technology capable of detecting, blocking and alerting users to suspicious or harmful links in real time, enabling customers to navigate the digital world with confidence, safety and peace of mind, even as cyber threats grow increasingly complex alongside rapid technological advances. To date, the system has protected customers from more than 2.2 billion attempts to click on fraudulent links and answer dangerous phone calls. True will continue to develop innovations to build a safer and more sustainable digital society.’

Dr Naetchanok Wipatasinlapin, Head of Sustainability Division of True Corporation Plc., added: ‘True is committed to harnessing innovation to create long-term value for society, and True CyberSafe is a clear example of how we integrate technology with social responsibility. Receiving this award serves as strong motivation for us to continue innovating – from nurturing new-generation innovators and developing patented technologies to delivering digital solutions that empower people to live and work online with confidence and safety. Currently, more than 1,040 employees are continuously innovating and developing technology to enhance the customer experience, with over 116 patents and petty patents already registered. By 2030, True aims to cultivate an additional 500 innovators, generate no less than 15% of its revenue from innovation, and register up to 200 intellectual property assets, reinforcing our ongoing commitment to building a safer and more sustainable digital society.’

Exploring the Innovation Behind True CyberSafe, Winner of the 2025 National Innovation Award

True CyberSafe is a cyber protection service for over 60 million True customers. Providing protection across True’s mobile and home internet networks, it is free to use with no registration or app download required. It offers three key features:

Real-time malicious link blocking

Blocks links on the blacklist from Thailand’s Cyber Police and government agencies immediately when clicked.

If the link is not on the blacklist but is suspicious, the system shows a warning ‘Caution: This may be a dangerous website’ and gives the user 60 seconds to decide.

Has already protected users from over 2.2 billion fraudulent link clicks, averaging 8 million per day (from 3 December 2024 to 30 September 2025).

Currently tracks over 455,000 suspicious links, with the list growing continuously.

Call AI Filter – AI screens or warns against incoming scam calls

Uses data from over 300,000 suspicious numbers provided by Thailand’s Cyber Police.

Instantly alerts users to potential scam calls.

SMS AI Filter – AI detects scam SMS to analyse scammer behaviour (coming soon).

In addition, the 9777 Scam Report service allows the public to report scam calls easily, quickly and safely, with investigation results provided within 24 hours.

When the Women’s China Open first teed off in 2006, the occasion was quietly significant. At the time, women’s golf in the Middle Kingdom was still taking fledgling steps in the global game. The domestic circuit was modest, the talent pool limited and the pathway to elite professional circuits like the LPGA Tour seemed distant, if not daunting.

Yet that first swing in Xiamen coincided with the dawn of a new era, one in which the nation’s most talented women would soon find their footing at home before spreading their wings abroad to challenge the best of the best and eventually write Chinese golf into the pages of sporting history.

Nearly two decades after the inaugural event, the transformation has been profound in China. From Feng Shanshan’s trailblazing major victory in 2012 to the steady rise of top players such as Janet Lin Xiyu, Yin Ruoning and Miranda Wang on the LPGA Tour, and milestone Olympic Games moments in Rio de Janeiro and Paris where Feng and Lin earned bronze medals, women’s golf in China has certainly been propelled to the forefront with great force.

Such has been the impact and growth in China that golfers from across Southeast Asia, including a strong representation of Thai players such as Sherman Santiwiwatthanaphong, Onkanok Soisuwan and Kan Bunnabodee, are now looking at the CLPG Tour as the career springboard as they dream of the stars.

At the heart of this rise has been the Women’s China Open. It is not just another stop on the calendar, it is the flagship event on the CLPG Tour, where every talented golfer aspires to join her idols and attain world-class stature.

For Feng, the country’s first major champion and its most iconic player, the Women’s China Open was an early inspiration especially when she saw firsthand how Korean superstars Shin Jiyai, Kim Hyo-Joo and Park Sung-Hyun dominated on Chinese soil by winning the Open five times amongst them. Shin is a former world No.1, Kim and Park are major champions and the trio holds a staggering 109 professional victories combined.

“Growing up as a young golfer, the Women’s China Open was a tournament that held special meaning for me. The experiences I gained over the years played a pivotal role in shaping my career,” said Feng, who has 22 career wins including 10 on the LPGA Tour.

Feng’s victory at the Women’s PGA Championship in 2012, one of golf’s majors, broke barriers for Chinese golf, but she has never overlooked the foundation that events like the Women’s China Open and the CLPG Tour provided.

“I am proud to see Chinese golfers achieving success on the LPGA Tour, and I believe the future of women’s golf in China is exceptionally bright.”

For Janet Lin Xiyu, who has taken a temporary leave of absence from the LPGA Tour for the arrival of her first child, the Women’s China Open was both a launching pad and a personal milestone. She became the first Chinese golfer to lift the trophy in 2019, an achievement she cherishes as much as her achievements abroad, including a podium finish at the Paris Olympic Games last summer.

“That achievement will always hold a special place in my heart, and I am proud to have contributed to the growth of our country’s golfing history,” said Lin, who owns seven CLPG Tour victories. “From the time I began competing, the Women’s China Open stood out as one of the most important tournaments on the calendar. It inspired me to push harder and strive for excellence. Like all great national Opens, it has played a pivotal role in developing women’s golf, providing a stage for Chinese players to challenge themselves.”

From the inaugural edition in Xiamen to this year’s groundbreaking move to Shanghai where the tournament will be played at Enhance Anting Golf Club from Oct 17-19, all eyes will be on the next wave of Chinese and regional aspiring stars. The local starlets include a group of amateurs such as 18-year-old Wang Zixuan, Xu Ying, 16, and 15-year-old Zhou Shiyuan — all of whom have won on the CLPG Tour this season.

The CLPG Tour has also provided opportunities for regional and aspiring golfers from Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore and Indonesia to sharpen their professional teeth, with the likes Sherman Santiwiwatthanaphong (THA), Onkanok Soisuwan (THA), Kan Bunnabodee (THA), Jocelyn Chee (MAS), Ng Jing Xuen (MAS), Amanda Tan (SIN) and Patricia Sinolungan (INA) benefitting immensely. With Thailand’s Jeeno Thitikul rising to world No.1 recently, the importance of women’s golf growth across the Asia-Pacific is not lost on many.

Kan, 24, was in the national team with Jeeno during their amateur days and believes the CLPG Tour offers a career pathway to the top as the No.1 from the points list will secure playing rights on the Korean LPGA Tour.

“Seeing Jeeno’s success on the LPGA Tour, I’m really proud of her. It was amazing to see her reach world No.1 which is motivating me to want to achieve it too,” said Kan.

The upswing in fortunes is certainly testament to the fact that the Women’s China Open is proving to be just the origin of greatness for women’s golf in the country, and region wide.