Asianet Pakistan Private Limited

A Myanmar air force plane dropped six bombs on a border village in Myanmar near the Phu Nam Ron permanent border checkpoint in Muang district on Friday in a second round of airstrikes. No casualties were reported.

The fresh attack occurred at about 8.15am. A K-8 fighter jet dropped three sets of bombs, totalling six, targeting suspected positions of the Karen National Liberation Army (KNLA) Brigade 4, opposite the Phu Nam Ron border checkpoint in tambon Ban Kao of Kanchanaburi province.

The fighter jet also opened fire with machine guns. No casualties or damages were reported.

The latest attack follows an incident on Wednesday when three Myanmar air force planes -two twin turbo-prop Y-12s and one K-8 fighter jet – dropped bombs on the Ban Ticki community in Metta district of Dawei, opposite the border checkpoint in tambon Ban Kao or about 1-2 kilometres from the Thai border.

The airstrike forced some 300-400 residents – mostly Myanmar nationals of Karen and Mon ethnicity – to flee towards the frontier to seek temporary shelter on Wednesday. On the following day, the situation appeared to calm with no further air operations reported

The second round of airstrikes has sparked concerns among border communities and Thai authorities.

Thai troops from Lat Ya special task force, paramilitary rangers from the 14th Ranger Regiment, local officials and police from Muang district station were placed on full alert along the border.

The Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) plans to refer a bribery case involving Digital Economy and Society (DES) Minister Chaichanok Chidchob and call-centre scam networks to the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) next week, CIB commissioner Pol Lt Gen Natthasak Chaowanasai said on Thursday.

The case stems from Mr Chaichanok’s police complaint on Oct 6, where he alleged that a group had offered him 40 million baht to halt crackdowns on call-centre gangs and illegal online gambling networks. Pol Lt Gen Natthasak said investigators had now taken the minister’s statement and were determining whether the case fell under police or NACC jurisdiction.

Preliminary findings indicated the matter likely qualified under the anti-corruption law, he added.

The CIB chief confirmed the Bureau of Investigation is reviewing the evidence before forwarding the case to the NACC, stressing that the inquiry will proceed transparently and in accordance with the law.

Meanwhile, in parliament, Pheu Thai MP Siam Hathasongkorh, who chairs the House committee on telecommunications and digital affairs, said the panel believed Mr Chaichanok’s claims were credible.

The committee had invited the minister on Thursday to clarify who had made the bribe offer, but he was unable to attend due to urgent commitments and sent a representative in his place.

Mr Siam said the committee would summon Mr Chaichanok again, adding that coordination among relevant agencies was crucial to curb the resurgence of call-centre scams following the recent change of government. He stressed the need for accountability and vowed to pursue the case if progress stalled, calling it a matter of public trust and national security.

The cryptocurrency market in October is on a bullish footing, with both Bitcoin and altcoins showing strong potential to extend gains, thanks partly to the expected monetary policy easing in the US, says digital asset fund manager Merkle Capital.

According to Woramet Chansen, investment advisor at Merkle, other key factors that could drive prices higher this month in addition to a Federal Reserve interest rate cut are supportive seasonality and renewed strength in altcoin markets.

The market widely expects the Federal Open Market Committee to trim the rate by a quarter-point to a range of 3.75% to 4% when it meets on Oct 28-29.

On Sept 17, the US central bank lowered its benchmark rate by 25 basis points and released a dovish dot plot, signalling more cuts ahead. Markets are now pricing in as many as four additional reductions through 2026, with most policymakers projecting a long-term terminal rate between 3% and 3.25% by late 2027.

Sustained lower borrowing costs are expected to inject liquidity into global markets, channelling capital towards risk assets such as cryptocurrencies, said Mr Woramet.

The second factor is seasonality, he said, noting Bitcoin rose more than 5% last month, only the fifth time since 2013 that September closed in positive territory.

Historical trends show that when September posts gains, October follows with further upside in six out of seven instances, he said. Moreover, Bitcoin has delivered positive returns in October 10 out of the past 12 years.

With the Fed pivoting towards a more accommodative policy, this seasonal tailwind adds conviction to bullish forecasts, said Mr Woramet.

The third driver is the broader market, as total crypto market capitalisation reached a record high in August, largely fuelled by institutional adoption of Bitcoin, according to Merkle.

More strikingly, altcoins excluding Bitcoin are retesting peak levels not seen in four years. In the previous cycle, once the altcoin market cap broke above its 2017 high, it surged more than 250% during 2021.

“Analysts believe a similar breakout this October could set the stage for a broad-based rally into the fourth quarter and potentially into 2026,” he said.

Merkle expects Bitcoin to test US$75,000-80,000 by year-end if momentum holds, while Ethereum could climb towards $4,000-4,200. Altcoins within the Ethereum ecosystem, as well as Web3-related tokens, are seen as potential outperformers, noted the asset manager.

“October could prove to be a defining month for digital assets,” Mr Woramet said. “Long-term investors may consider gradually increasing exposure to cryptocurrencies as global liquidity conditions, historical patterns and market structure all align for another bull cycle.”

A male employee has been dismissed from his job after a video of him kicking a cat went viral online, sparking widespread outrage across social media. The incident, which occurred in Bangkok, shows the man setting up a camera before deliberately kicking a cat with the caption, ‘With apologies to cat lovers.’

Following the video’s circulation, online users swiftly identified the perpetrator as a maintenance staff member employed by A and J Beauty Products Co Ltd, located in the Don Mueang district. The company has since issued a formal statement confirming his termination, effective today

In the statement, A and J Beauty Products emphasised its firm stance against animal cruelty, declaring:

‘The company does not condone or tolerate any form of cruelty towards living beings. We hereby inform you that the maintenance employee has been dismissed from the company as of Oct 10, 2025. Any further actions by this individual bear no connection or responsibility to the company.’

Meanwhile, Watchdog Thailand Foundation (WDT) provided an update on the cat’s condition, confirming that the animal has received veterinary care and is unharmed. According to the organisation, the man’s former girlfriend, who took the cat to the vet, will continue to care for it.

The man responsible for the incident is due to appear before Don Mueang District Court today to face legal proceedings related to animal cruelty.

Takeru Segawa has celebrated his wedding reception in Tokyo as he prepares for his return to ONE Championship action at ONE 173 next month.

The 34-year-old Japanese kickboxing superstar announced in July that he had married his long-time partner, Aoi Kawaguchi, just before leaving for California to begin fight camp for his comeback.

Now back home, Takeru hosted friends and teammates from Vasileus Gym – including fellow ONE kickboxing stars Masaaki Noiri and Yuki Yoza – at the event. Photos shared on social media showed the trio smiling alongside the happy couple.

‘Today was my wedding reception,’ Takeru wrote in a widely shared social media post. ‘Since it was right before a fight, the preparations were tough, but I was able to see people I hadn’t met in a long time, and I’m glad I could share this good news with everyone.’

Takeru is set to face Canada’s ‘Bosnian Menace’ Denis Puric in a high-profile kickboxing bout on November 16 at Ariake Arena in Tokyo.

‘I’m fired up and motivated for my upcoming fight!’ Takeru added. ‘Thank you so much to everyone who helped make this possible.’

The fight will mark his first appearance since a devastating first-round knockout loss to Rodtang Jitmuangnon in March at ONE 172 in Saitama – a result that prompted the former K-1 megastar to declare he was entering his ‘final chapter’ as a fighter.

‘From now on, I’m going to carry my family on my shoulders,’ he said in July after announcing his marriage. ‘I hope we can live our lives by supporting each other in good times and hard times.’

The Tokyo card – ONE’s second major Japanese event of 2025 – will feature seven title fights across two sessions, with doors opening at noon and the show running until 10pm.

Supaluck Umpujh, Chairwoman of The Mall Group, has been recognised for the second consecutive year on Fortune magazine’s prestigious “Most Powerful Women Asia 2025” list. The accolade honours 100 influential female leaders across 14 countries in the Asia-Pacific region who have demonstrated exceptional ability to navigate global and regional volatility whilst creating strategic business advantages.

The rigorous selection process evaluates candidates across multiple dimensions: measurable impact on their organisations and economies, strategic reach across industries and markets, and capacity to shape the future of business and economic landscapes.

Ms Supaluck’s recognition stems from her transformative leadership in developing landmark retail mega-projects over four decades. Her portfolio includes internationally acclaimed destinations such as Siam Paragon and the Em District-comprising Emporium, Emquartier, and Emsphere-which have become defining features of Thailand’s retail landscape and distinguished shopping destinations on the global stage.

Beyond commercial success, Ms Supaluck has pioneered a visionary approach that transcends traditional retail paradigms. Under her stewardship, The Mall Group has evolved into a “Space of Inspiration” that champions equality, diversity, and inclusivity across all demographics and communities.

This philosophy manifests through innovative initiatives, most notably her leadership of the LOVE PRIDE ? PARADE-Asia’s largest and longest Pride Month celebration. The event exemplifies her commitment to advancing Thailand’s soft power strategy through the rainbow economy, positioning Bangkok as a premier Pride Festival Destination whilst propelling the capital towards its aspiration of becoming Asia’s Entertainment Hub. Her ambitions extend to securing Bangkok’s bid to host World Pride 2030.

Ms Supaluck’s sustained recognition on this distinguished list underscores her pivotal role as a trailblazing female executive in Thailand. She has not only steered the retail sector through digital transformation but has emerged as a leading voice championing gender equality and fostering sustainable advancement for women in Thai business.

‘Sustainability, strategy, and risk are three dimensions of the same thing – the longevity of business. Sustainability for us is not only about environmental protection; it’s really about the survival of the business together with our stakeholders,’ said Tongjai Thanachanan, Executive Vice President and Chief Sustainability and Strategy Officer of ThaiBev, during the ‘Sustainability as an Engine for Growth’ forum at Sustainability Expo 2025 (SX2025) at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre.

Tongjai stressed that sustainability initiatives are not an additional cost but an integral part of operations – a way to manage risk while improving efficiency and cost competitiveness.

Her statement echoed Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt’s vision of positioning the capital as a marketable global brand. To this end, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) appointed Pornphrom Vikitsreth as its first Chief Sustainability Officer.

‘The governor sees that Bangkok must compete with other cities in Asia – not just to attract short-term visitors, but to make people want to live, work, and invest here. This is very much linked to sustainability,’ said Pornphrom.

Thai Union: From Cost to Competitive Edge

For Thai seafood giant Thai Union, sustainability began as an expense. ‘It has evolved since then – that was ten years ago. Today, we view sustainability as a competitive advantage and a key driver of our growth,’ said Adam Brennan, Thai Union’s Chief Sustainability and Communication Officer.

In 2023, the company launched its SeaChange® 2030 strategy, described by Brennan as ‘the most ambitious and holistic sustainability strategy the seafood sector has ever seen.’ The initiative not only addresses Thai Union’s environmental and social impacts but also creates new commercial opportunities while engaging diverse stakeholders, including NGOs.

‘Today, our sustainability programme opens doors – doors that were otherwise closed. It enables new connections with retailers, unlocks commercial opportunities, and helps close deals that had been pending for years. Sustainability has become a key differentiator that protects people, the planet, and our business,’ Brennan said.

What began as a reputation-enhancing effort has evolved into a value-creating force. Thai Union has since earned global trust as a responsible supplier while helping Thai fisheries and farms elevate their practices. ‘We’ve moved from viewing sustainability as brand protection to brand value,’ Brennan concluded.

AirAsia: Rethinking Carbon as Business Cost

In a sector often criticised for its environmental footprint, AirAsia is rethinking how sustainability fits within its operations. ‘We first had to accept that carbon cost is part of business cost,’ said Mun Ching Yap, AirAsia’s Chief Sustainability Officer. ‘Managing this means understanding various options for carbon abatement. The biggest one for us is efficiency – and as a low-cost airline, we’ve always been strict on that.’

Yap noted that airlines face regulatory limits on what they can achieve independently. ‘Regulators typically focus on safety, but safety and sustainability are not mutually exclusive. With international aviation regulation evolving, sustainability is now a key focus for regulators,’ she said.

This regulatory shift has opened new dialogue between airlines and authorities on improving airspace management to reduce fuel use. ‘You also have the option of adopting new innovations such as sustainable aviation fuels,’ Yap added. ‘It’s a promising concept, but the price remains prohibitive for most airlines.’

AirAsia continues to invest heavily in operational efficiency – upgrading its fleet, refining flight operations, and exploring new technologies to cut emissions.

Collaboration for a Low-Carbon Future

As Thailand moves toward a low-carbon economy, corporate sustainability leaders share a common vision: collaboration, innovation, accountability, and capacity building will drive the transition from ambition to action.

Sustainability, they agree, is no longer an optional initiative but a long-term commitment – the only path forward for businesses and communities to thrive in a changing world.

Foreigners working legally in Thailand face tighter tax regulations as the Thai government moves to align its tax system with international standards.

With over 3.3 million foreign workers registered as of August 2024, Thai authorities are stepping up enforcement to ensure all individuals, foreign workers included, earning income comply with personal income tax obligations.

Under Thai tax law, a foreigner who resides in the country for 180 days or more in a calendar year is considered a tax resident. This means they are liable to pay tax on all income, whether earned in Thailand or abroad. Non-residents, by contrast, are taxed only on income sourced within Thailand. The personal income tax system is progressive, with rates ranging from 5% to 35% depending on net income after deductions.

Personal income tax rates

Thailand uses a progressive personal income tax system, where the tax rate increases with the amount of net income (after deductions and allowances). The current tax brackets are as follows:

Net income 0 – 150,000 baht: Exempt from tax (must still report to the Revenue Department)

Net income 150,001 – 300,000 baht: Taxed at 5%

Net income 300,001 – 500,000 baht: Taxed at 10%

Net income 500,001 – 750,000 baht: Taxed at 15%

Net income 750,001 – 1,000,000 baht: Taxed at 20%

Net income 1,000,001 – 2,000,000 baht: Taxed at 25%

Net income 2,000,001 – 5,000,000 baht: Taxed at 30%

Net income over 5,000,000 baht: Taxed at 35%

Foreign nationals are entitled to many of the same tax deductions as Thais. These include a personal allowance of 60,000 baht, spousal (for married people, maximum of 60,000 baht) and child deductions (maximum of 30,000 baht per child but no more than 3), and deductions for investments such as provident funds and life insurance. Annual tax returns must be filed using form PND 90 or 91 by 31 March of the following year.

Thailand has signed double taxation agreements (DTAs) with more than 60 countries. These treaties help prevent foreigners from being taxed twice on the same income.

Foreign employees must also contribute to Thailand’s social security system, with a 5% deduction from their salary, capped at 750 baht per month.

Those operating businesses in Thailand must register for VAT if their annual revenue exceeds 1.8 million baht.

Since January 2024, tax residents must pay income tax on any foreign income brought into Thailand, regardless of when it was earned. This marks a significant shift from the previous rule, which taxed only income remitted in the same year it was earned. Authorities are also considering broader reforms that could see Thailand adopt a full worldwide income taxation model.

Travellers to Thailand from long-haul markets are poised to help offset sluggish Asian arrivals this year, with seat bookings through the end of March already up more than 10% from the same period a year earlier, say tourism officials.

Total long-haul arrivals this year are expected to reach 11.9 million, after achieving a record of 9.7 million with 28% growth in 2024, said Chiravadee Khunsub, deputy governor for Europe, Africa, the Middle East and the Americas at the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT).

As of Sept 30, long-haul arrivals totalled 7.5 million, up 31.2% year-on-year.

Although high demand during the peak season has driven up hotel prices by 15-20%, bookings from these markets remain strong for the next six months, said Mrs Chiravadee.

She attributed the 10% growth in forward bookings partly to the addition of direct flights to and from North America. Direct flights between Thailand and the United States will resume on Oct 26 for the first time since 2015, after Thailand passed an airport safety audit.

Starting on Oct 26, United Airlines is scheduled to operate daily flights from Los Angeles to Bangkok. Air Canada offers five flights a week on its Vancouver-Bangkok route, and will increase the frequency to daily from Dec 1 to March 26.

She said the new routes are expected to stimulate growth in potential markets along the US west coast, as Los Angeles could serve as a gateway for travellers from San Francisco, Seattle and Portland.

Other carriers are preparing to launch new routes to Thailand, which could increase capacity in this segment, said Mrs Chiravadee.

For connecting flights, the TAT plans to resume partnerships with EVA Air, which has an extensive network to more US cities, such as Dallas – a promising market with a large young population and several universities.

She said forward bookings from Europe in the fourth quarter of this year and the first quarter of 2026 increased by 5% and 13%, respectively, while those from African markets are by by 17% and 4.7%, respectively.

Although some price-sensitive European travellers have shifted to countries such as Vietnam, Thailand remains attractive to high-potential markets, particularly those focused on sustainability, which is a key direction for Thai tourism moving forward, said Mrs Chiravadee.

From January to March 2026, forward bookings from Germany led among peers with 156,297 seats, up 7% year-on-year, followed by the UK with 117,489 seats, rising 11%.

Central Retail Corporation Plc (CRC) is reinforcing its strategy of “Retail and Wholesale for All”, advancing sustainable growth through the “CRC Care 7 Dimension Philosophy”.

This business philosophy comprises: “Care for Governance” by conducting business with transparency and good corporate governance; “Care for the Customer” by placing customers at the heart of every business decision; “Care for Partners” by driving inclusive growth together with business partners; “Care for the Economy” by uplifting the local economy and promoting prosperity nationwide; “Care for the People” by creating a great place to work for all employees; “Care for the Community” by enhancing quality of life and reducing social inequality; and “Care for the Environment” by advancing its “ReNEW” strategy that seeks net-zero emissions by 2050.

Suthisarn Chirathivat, chief executive of CRC, said the company creates meaningful business growth that opens opportunities for every sector to thrive together.

“Retail and wholesale for all is about growth with purpose, not just in numbers, but in impact. We strive to open opportunities for customers, partners and communities to thrive together, while ensuring that our progress creates lasting value for the economy, society and the environment,” he said.

In line with this philosophy, 100% of CRC’s suppliers have signed on to environmental, social and governance (ESG) practices.

The company employs more than 500 people with disabilities and seniors and generates over 814 million baht in sustainable income for local communities.

CRC continues to expand its ESG initiatives through a variety of ongoing projects, such as installing solar rooftop panels at more than 160 shopping malls, buildings and warehouses.

The project replaces up to 16% of total electricity consumption, reducing environmental impact and cutting carbon dioxide emissions by the equivalent of 86,612 tonnes.

Other projects related to reducing power consumption, greenhouse gas emissions and waste generation include the installation of innovative solar LED streetlights at Robinson Lifestyle Mall branches nationwide, as well as the use of efficient refrigerators at GO Wholesale and Central Food Retail, and a project aimed at reducing food waste.

Moreover, CRC has revitalised 5,000 rai of degraded land in Chaiyaphum into a model agroforestry site producing avocados and high-value fruit, generating 41 million baht and welcoming 10,000 visitors annually.

Similar projects in Chiang Mai and Sakon Nakhon foster organic farming, traditional crafts and community tourism, boosting local incomes and preserving cultural heritage.