Storm Matmo becomes low-pressure cell, heavy rains expected

Tropical Storm Matmo has weakened into a low-pressure area in upper Vietnam and will bring heavy rains to the North, the Northeast and the East of Thailand on Tuesday, according to the Meteorological Department.

Sugunyanee Yavinchan, director-general of the department, said on Tuesday morning that Tropical Storm Matmo became an active low-pressure cell in the upper part of Vietnam at 1am on Tuesday.

The low-pressure system has strengthened the southwestern monsoon over the Andaman Sea, Thailand and the Gulf of Thailand and will cause isolated heavy rains in the North, the Northeast and the East of Thailand, she said.

Ms Sugunyanee warned people in the regions of possible flash floods, run-off and overflowing waterways.

She said the warning was the 15th and final one concerning Storm Matmo.

Man storms ex-wife’s home, gunfight ends in fatal stabbing

A tragic shooting happened in Ayutthaya province when a man armed with a gun broke into his ex-wife’s home. There was a gunfight with his former father-in-law, ending in the older man’s death.

Security camera footage captured the incident. The former son-in-law fired a single shot before his gun jammed. The father-in-law returned fire. The assailant then rushed forward, grabbed a pair of scissors, and stabbed the older man in the neck, killing him instantly.

Police found the injured suspect, around 30 years old, outside the house with gunshot wounds to the chin and body. Inside the house, officers discovered the body of the ex-wife’s father lying face-down in a pool of blood, with gunshot and stab wounds to his chest and neck.

According to the victim’s daughter, she was at home with her father and child when her ex-husband arrived, shouting from outside. She refused to open the gate, due to a history of domestic violence. The man then climbed over the fence, forced his way inside, and the deadly confrontation ensued.

She added that she had previously fled to Roi Et province to escape the abuse, but her ex-husband tracked her down, forcing her to return to her father’s home. Despite filing police reports in the past, she said he continued to threaten her.

Police said the suspect is the son of a deputy mayor of a local municipality in Ayutthaya, but stressed that this will not affect the investigation.

DES targets e-commerce monopolies

New Digital Economy and Society (DES) Minister Chaichanok Chidchob is to address the alleged monopolisation of the online delivery business by some foreign e-commerce platforms, with the aim of benefiting consumers.

The ministry also plans to push for a lower growth profit margin (GP) rate among the platforms involved in this sector.

Some e-commerce platforms have already expressed their intention to participate in talks on the GP issue, according to Mr Chaichanok.

He added that the target is part of the ministry’s quick-win policy to solve problems and drive economic growth through closer collaboration among public and private sectors.

Mr Chaichanok said the amended Postal Act, which is in the draft stage at present, is in the process of being implemented with the goal of raising the standard of postal and parcel services to keep up with the digital era, as well as support rapidly changing market competition.

The enforcement of the amended version of the law is expected to boost healthy competition and create proper regulatory supervision.

Mr Chaichanok said he would closely monitor the bill’s development in order to help finalise the details.

He also on Monday outlined the ministry’s urgent missions and policies to address four ongoing problems and potential threats via public-private partnership and through the use of a transparent and accountable approach.

They are: natural and environmental disasters, security threats, economic problems, and social threats.

When it comes to natural disasters, state agencies are requested to integrate the use of meteorological data and related technologies with those of other state agencies and private agencies, both in Thailand and overseas, to design plans for natural disaster responses that are more accurate and precise.

This includes using meteorological and satellite data to plan accurate disaster warnings.

Furthermore, the ministry aims to promote communications to provide disaster warnings to the public at all levels.

In term of security threats, it is to expedite the promotion of digital literacy to the public.

“We should prioritise raising awareness of cybercrime, and integrate with other state agencies to fully utilise the technology and data available within the ministry,” Mr Chaichanok added.

He said that the ministry will urge agencies to develop guidelines for the use of technology to enhance security along the Thai-Cambodian border and reduce tension, and prevent loss of life and property among soldiers and civilians. It will also join with the private sector to support relevant technology to the areas, such as drones.

In terms of economic threats due to the global economic situation which may have unpredictable and quantifiable economic impacts on Thailand, he said that the ministry’s agencies must take the lead in promoting and supporting digital entrepreneurs.

The ministry is ready to support the solutions to address the monopolistic power of major digital platforms. This would be achieved by its collaboration with relevant agencies to consider the establishment of regulatory measures ensuring fair competition and creating a balance between platform operators and the public as well as prioritising safety standards.

With regard to the social threats, this would involve supporting equal access to basic technology, including artificial intelligence (AI), data, and AI literacy.

The ministry will also upgrade the measures concerning the suppression of call centres and online scams, aiming to reduce losses to individuals and the economic system.

Asia’s First Porsche Design Tower Breaks Ground

Porsche Design Tower Bangkok commenced construction October 7, 2025, marking a significant milestone in Asia’s ultra-luxury real estate sector. The groundbreaking ceremony was attended by executives from Porsche Lifestyle Group and Ananda Development, among them the CEOs of both partners, Stefan Buescher and Chanond Ruangkritya. Scheduled for completion in December 2028, this is Porsche Design’s third real estate project globally and first in Asia. Located in Bangkok’s vibrant Thonglor area, the development introduces revolutionary features including exclusive “Passion Spaces.” A meticulously designed show unit also opened today.

Stefan Buescher, Chairman of the Executive Board of Porsche Lifestyle Group, stated: “This groundbreaking represents the perfect synthesis of Porsche Design’s engineering and design excellence. Innovations like the Kinetic Move façade system, the X-Frame, the Crown and the exclusive Passion Spaces demonstrate our commitment to creating living spaces that reflect technical sophistication and innovative functionality. This architectural masterpiece broadens the Porsche brand’s appeal by offering ultra-exclusive experiences.”

Chanond Ruangkritya, President and Chief Executive Officer of Ananda Development, said: “We are proud to bring this vision to life in Bangkok. Together, we are setting a new standard for luxury living in Asia, reinforcing Bangkok’s position as a leading destination for global luxury real estate investment and creating a sophisticated living experience that celebrates the passions of our future residents.”

Located on Sukhumvit 38, one of Bangkok’s most prestigious addresses, the Porsche Design Tower Bangkok will feature 22 exclusive duplex and quadplex ‘Sky Villas’ ranging from 525 to 1,135 square metres. The development showcases several revolutionary features that set new standards in luxury living:

“Passion Spaces” – Private garages for luxury car collections, fully customisable into sophisticated entertainment spaces

‘The Kinetic Move’ – An automated terrace system inspired by the iconic Porsche 911 Targa roof mechanism

“The Crown” – A distinctive lighting signature, inspired by Porsche’s iconic design, set to illuminate Bangkok’s skyline

“X-Frame” – An architectural feature inspired by Porsche’s Mission R concept car and its stunning exoskeleton structure creating a unique visual signature and column-free building entrance

“The Loop” – An innovative spiral access ramp enabling residents to drive vehicles to their Passion Space

Amenities include a 25-metre swimming pool, state-of-the-art fitness centre, spa facilities, social lounges, and business facilities. Each residence features a private swimming pool and technically inspired luxurious kitchens.

Jaguar Land Rover to partially reopen plants Wednesday

Jaguar Land Rover Automotive PLC (JLR) announced on Tuesday that it will begin a phased restart of its manufacturing operations in the United Kingdom starting Wednesday, more than a month after a cyberattack forced production to a complete halt. Production lines at the Solihull factory in the UK, along with the facility in Nitra, Slovakia, are expected to resume operations later this week, Azernews reports, citing foreign media.

In response to the disruption, JLR is also fast-tracking a new support program designed to assist qualifying suppliers by providing cash-up-front financing during the restart phase. ‘Under this new scheme, eligible JLR suppliers will receive payments much faster than the usual terms, helping to ease cash flow pressures in the short term,’ the company said.

The cyberattack, which hit JLR in early September, was one of the most significant disruptions to the automaker’s production in recent years, highlighting the increasing vulnerabilities of global manufacturing to digital threats.

This phased restart marks a critical step in JLR’s recovery, as the company aims to minimize delays and meet rising demand for its luxury vehicles. Industry experts note that the move to support suppliers with accelerated payments reflects a growing trend among manufacturers to strengthen supply chain resilience amid ongoing global uncertainties.

Korean anger grows over Tesla battery as government reviews subsidies

The South Korean government is contemplating reducing subsidies for Tesla following persistent battery defects that have left some three-year-old models unable to charge. This issue has intensified scrutiny over Tesla’s commitment to consumer protection in one of its key markets, Azernews reports, citing Korean media.

Tesla owners in Korea have expressed growing frustration-not only over the battery malfunctions but also due to what they describe as the company’s ‘irresponsible’ handling of the problem.

Online communities have mobilized, demanding recalls or free battery replacements, and have even submitted a petition to the National Assembly. The petition, which has already gathered over 14,000 signatures, has prompted the country’s transport and environment ministries to closely monitor the situation.

‘We cannot continue to provide subsidies for vehicles that disadvantage consumers. Depending on Tesla’s response, we may consider withdrawing subsidies altogether,’ said an official leading the EV subsidy program at the Ministry of Environment.

‘We requested a detailed explanation from Tesla Korea but have yet to receive any meaningful response,’ the official added.

Tesla remains a dominant player in the Korean EV market. Last year, the company sold 29,750 vehicles, making it the third-largest imported car brand behind BMW and Mercedes-Benz. Notably, the Model Y was the top-selling electric vehicle in Korea during the first half of this year, with 15,432 units sold-surpassing popular domestic models like Kia’s EV6 and Hyundai’s Ioniq 5.

As Tesla faces mounting pressure from both consumers and regulators, the coming months will be critical in determining whether the company can restore trust in the Korean market and maintain its subsidy eligibility.

National Art Museum presents new permanent exhibition [PHOTOS]

A new permanent exhibition titled “Azerbaijani Fine Arts: From Classicism to Postmodernism” has opened at the Azerbaijan National Art Museum, Azernews reports.

Director of the National Museum of Fine Arts, Honored Cultural Worker Shirin Malikova, Chairman of the Azerbaijan Artists’ Union, People’s Artist Farhad Khalilov, People’s Artist and Academician Omar Eldarov, and the Chairman of the Azerbaijan Architects’ Union, Honored Architect Elbay Gasimzade participated in the event.

In their remarks, they emphasized the significance of the exhibition, which brings together various periods of our national art from the 1950s to the 2000s, and presents the creative journeys of painters and sculptors through their outstanding works of art.

Following the speeches, the participants familiarized themselves with the exhibition. The display features nearly 80 works, including paintings, sculptures, and graphic art.

The exhibition, showcasing the works of artists from different generations, creates a comprehensive panorama of Azerbaijani fine arts. It presents both the artistic world of painters working in the realism style in the early 20th century and the modernists who introduced new approaches in form and expression in the subsequent periods, as well as works by contemporary artists addressing global themes. This allows viewers to explore the wide horizons of Azerbaijani painting.

In themed sections, visitors can find paintings depicting the stunning landscapes of Baku, the psychologically deep portraits of prominent figures, genre paintings reflecting everyday life, and abstract works expressing the philosophical harmony of color and form. These diverse pieces organically combine the classical roots and contemporary explorations of the Azerbaijani painting school, demonstrating the richness and dynamic development of national art.

Works by renowned and emerging artists, such as Taghi Taghiyev, Gafar Seyfullayev, Vajiha Samadova, Badura Afganli, Asaf Jafarov, Bayim Hajiyeva, Nadir Gasimov, Mirnadir Zeynalov, Farhad Khalilov, Chingiz Farzaliyev, Salhab Mammadov, Sirus Mirzazade, Aydan Salahova, and others, from different periods and styles, are presented in a unified space, creating a complete picture of 20th-century visual arts.

The painting section of the exhibition is enriched by the works of Azerbaijani sculptors such as Jalal Garyagdi, Elmira Huseynova, Natig Aliyev, Sahib Guliyev, and Teymur Rustamov, who represent various generations and excel in classical and abstract styles.

These contributions add significant depth to the exhibition. Here, traditional realism and contemporary plastic languages are presented side by side, allowing viewers to trace the development of the national sculptural school.

The sculptures on display capture both the psychological richness of human figures and the new interpretations of form and space, drawing the audience’s attention.

Founded in 1937, Azerbaijan National Art Museum offers art connoisseurs some of the best examples of decorative-applied arts of Western Europe.

Over 3,000 items in 60 rooms are on permanent display at the museum, and around 12,000 items are kept in storage. Here, you can see masterpieces of the Italian, French, German, and Polish masters of brush.

The museum has successfully organized and hosted numerous high-level international exhibitions, showcasing the works of renowned artists.

These exhibitions have not only attracted art enthusiasts but have also contributed to the cultural exchange between Azerbaijan and other countries.

Azerbaijan’s Gabala hosts official luncheon on behalf of President Ilham Aliyev for leaders attending OTS summit [PHOTOS]

On October 7, an official luncheon was hosted in Gabala on behalf of President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev in honor of the heads of state and government participating in the 12th Summit of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS), Azernews reports.

Blame outside, crisis inside: Iran’s explaination for its failure

The East has long been the cradle of civilization. It is a region of immense potential, steeped in culture, history, and innovation. For centuries, it was the world’s locomotive, a hub of economic growth, scientific discovery, and cultural development. Yet, in the past few centuries, the East has come to symbolize stagnation, a place left behind by modernity, struggling to reclaim the dynamism it once possessed. Among these nations, Iran’s decline is particularly stark.

There are many reasons for this regression, but one of the most significant, in my view, is the persistent refusal to take responsibility. The Mullah regime has repeatedly failed to acknowledge its own mistakes, preferring instead to shift the blame outward. Every social, economic, and political problem becomes the fault of external actors-whether the United States, Israel, or now, even Azerbaijan. This culture of scapegoating is both self-destructive and dangerous.

Iran was once the most dynamic country in its region. Its annual GDP growth reached 30 to 40 percent, and its economy outperformed its neighbors before the Islamic revolution. Yet following the Islamic Revolution, the country’s fortunes reversed dramatically. Today, Iran’s economic performance is comparable to African nations, and in per capita GDP. For examples, in the 1990s, as the Soviet Union disintegrated, Iran’s per capita GDP far exceeded that of these emerging nations; today, it falls short by more than twofold.

Where does the blame lie? According to Tehran’s ruling clerics, the answer is never Iran itself. Low per-capita income? The United States and Israel. High child mortality? Again, foreign interference. A faltering education system? External enemies. Even internal security failures-such as the assassination of a high-ranking Iranian general in their bedroom in the heart of Tehran-are attributed to other nations. However, the most ironic is Iranian parliamentarian Kamran Ghazanfari’s recent accusation against Azerbaijan. Indirectly he claimed that Azerbaijan bears responsibility for the death of the Iranian late president. This is both absurd and revealing: a regime that cannot protect its own leadership assigns blame to its neighbor, as if Azerbaijan were tasked with guarding Tehran.

The consequences of this mentality extend far beyond rhetoric. Iran’s failure to take responsibility endangers both its own citizens and its neighbors. A sudden and tectonic collapse, whether economic, political, or social, would likely trigger massive migration. For Azerbaijan, a nation of just ten million, even a fraction of the displaced population from Iran would be catastrophic. There are more than thirty million ethnic Azerbaijanis in Iran alone, not to mention other ethnic groups such as the Talysh, Kurds, and various Turkic peoples. Conservative estimates suggest that even five million refugees would overwhelm Azerbaijan’s infrastructure and economy. The reality is that no country can absorb a refugee wave equal to or exceeding its own population without facing devastating consequences.

Yet Iran’s clerical leadership seems indifferent to such risks. The regime refuses accountability and shields itself from criticism, even as tectonic shifts-both literal and metaphorical-shape its society. Problems that could be addressed through reform are ignored. Social crises, economic stagnation, and political unrest persist because admitting failure is seen as unacceptable. Instead, the blame is projected outward, creating a culture in which no internal problem is ever resolved.

This avoidance of responsibility has tangible consequences. Iran is not merely stagnating in comparison with Europe or developed nations; it is increasingly competing with countries such as North Korea or Afghanistan in terms of development and social outcomes. Its failure to modernize and reform leaves it vulnerable to both internal crises and external manipulation. Meanwhile, the scapegoating of Azerbaijan illustrates the regime’s willingness to exploit neighboring countries as convenient distractions from its own failures.

The question is whether Iran can change. History suggests that regimes unwilling to accept responsibility either reform or fade into irrelevance. The clerical establishment faces a choice: either confront the country’s systemic failures or follow the path of Syria’s Ba’athist regime, consigned to the margins of history. Yet, for Iran’s neighbors, particularly Azerbaijan, the stakes are immediate. Stability in Iran is in Azerbaijan’s interest because any significant upheaval would have profound humanitarian and economic repercussions.

The lesson is clear. Societies that refuse to take responsibility for their own mistakes-those that externalize blame for every failure-cannot hope to develop sustainably. They risk stagnation, decline, and in the most extreme cases, collapse. Iran’s leadership must recognize that scapegoating external actors will not reverse its decline. Without accountability, the country is trapped in a cycle of self-inflicted crises, while the broader region braces for the consequences.

Iran’s potential is immense, but it cannot be realized under a regime that refuses to admit mistakes. History rewards those willing to confront their failures and learn from them; it punishes those who externalize blame. For Iran, the time to take responsibility is now, before the tectonic shocks-both literal and political-become unmanageable. For its neighbors and for the millions of people who depend on its stability, the consequences of continued denial could be catastrophic.

Ratification of Azerbaijan-UAE economic cooperation agreement expected by year-end

The economic cooperation agreement between Azerbaijan and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is expected to be ratified by the end of 2025, paving the way for strengthened bilateral relations, Azernews reports.

This was highlighted by Sanan Nasibli, representative of the Dubai Chamber of Commerce in Azerbaijan, during his speech at the seminar ‘Development of the Textile Sector and Promotion of Global Integration.’

Nasibli noted that the UAE has concluded comprehensive economic cooperation agreements with 27 countries, nine of which have already been ratified. ‘Azerbaijan is among them. The agreement with Azerbaijan is expected to be ratified by the end of this year. This also gives impetus to more dynamic and expanded cooperation between our countries,’ he said.

The ratification is anticipated to further boost trade, investment, and sectoral collaboration between Azerbaijan and the UAE, creating new opportunities for businesses in both nations.