Author: Wadi
Confidence in Coalition Stability Navigating a Slim Majority On July 12, 2025, Capt Thammanat Prompao, chief adviser to the Klatham Party, expressed optimism about the coalition government’s resilience despite its narrow majority. Drawing on his experience managing votes during the Prayut Chan-o-cha administration, he emphasized that unity and open dialogue among coalition partners are key to overcoming quorum challenges. His confidence underscores a strategic approach to maintaining governmental stability in turbulent times. A Veteran’s Political Perspective Lessons from Decades in Politics With a political career spanning back to 1998 with the Thai Rak Thai Party, Capt Thammanat brings seasoned insight…
A New Wave of Independent Travelers Changing Patterns in Southern Thailand In Songkhla province, a noticeable shift in Malaysian tourist behavior is reshaping the local tourism industry. As of July 2025, more visitors from Malaysia are opting to travel to Hat Yai in private vehicles, bypassing traditional group tours that rely on local guides. This trend, driven by a desire for flexibility and cost savings, is raising concerns among tour guides who face declining demand for their services. The Decline of Guided Tours Independent Travel on the Rise Historically, Malaysian tourists have arrived in Hat Yai via vans or buses,…
Transforming a Bustling Corridor Launching the Sukhumvit Model The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration has unveiled an ambitious plan to overhaul Sukhumvit Road, aiming to enhance safety, order, and quality of life. Dubbed the Sukhumvit Model, this initiative seeks to address urban challenges in one of the city’s most vibrant areas. By tackling issues like illegal activities and infrastructure woes, the project aims to create a safer, more welcoming environment for residents and tourists alike. Governor’s Hands-On Approach Inspecting Sukhumvit’s Challenges On the evening of July 10, 2025, Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt led a thorough inspection of Sukhumvit Road, joined by senior…
Incident Sparks Diplomatic Concerns Former Ranger’s Actions Escalate Tensions On July 13, 2025, a former Thai paramilitary ranger was apprehended after assaulting a Cambodian soldier at the historic Ta Muen Thom temple ruins in Surin, Thailand. The incident, occurring at a site long contested by both nations, has reignited concerns over Thai-Cambodian border relations. The altercation, reported in the morning, involved a physical attack that prompted swift action from Thai authorities, highlighting the delicate balance of diplomacy in this disputed region. Details of the Confrontation What Happened at Ta Muen Thom The confrontation unfolded when the former ranger, identified as…
Adapting to New Travel Trends Responding to Double-Track Rail Growth Thailand’s state-owned Transport Company, known as Bor Kor Sor, is overhauling its bus services to align with evolving travel preferences as double-track railway lines expand nationwide. With 4,845 kilometers of rail managed by the State Railway of Thailand, per 2025 data, the company aims to retain its 30% share of long-distance passengers. The shift reflects growing competition from faster, safer rail options, prompting strategic route adjustments. New Double-Track Rail Developments Latest Line Enhances Connectivity The recent opening of a double-track rail line in June 2025, spanning from Khok Kathiam in…
Understanding Motorcycle Taxi Fares Fast but Tricky Pricing Motorcycle taxis, known locally as “win motosai,” offer a swift way to weave through Bangkok’s notorious traffic, serving 70% of short-trip commuters, per 2025 transport data. Unlike the fixed fares of BTS or MRT, motorcycle taxi pricing can be inconsistent, leading to frequent overcharging. With 100,000 registered motorcycle taxis in Bangkok, understanding the fare structure is essential for Thailand’s 35 million annual visitors and residents. Legal Fare Guidelines Ministry of Transport Rules Thailand’s Ministry of Transport sets clear fare regulations for motorcycle taxis to protect passengers. The first 2 kilometers cost a…
Options for Driving in Thailand Two Pathways Available Foreigners in Thailand can legally drive by using an International Driving Permit (IDP) or applying for a Thai driver’s license, depending on their stay duration. With 35 million tourists and 1 million expatriates in Thailand annually, per 2024 tourism data, understanding these options is crucial. The IDP, paired with a valid home country license, suits short-term visitors, while a Thai license is ideal for long-term residents. Eligibility for Thai License Key Requirements to Meet To apply for a Thai driver’s license, foreigners must be at least 18 years old, in good physical…
Thaksin’s Return Amid Scandal Optimism for Paetongtarn’s Future Thaksin Shinawatra, the influential Pheu Thai Party leader, reemerged on July 13, 2025, expressing confidence that his daughter, suspended Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, will overcome her political crisis stemming from a leaked call with former Cambodian PM Hun Sen. Comparing her suspension to General Prayut Chan-o-cha’s acquitted case, Thaksin remains hopeful. With 70% of Thais following the scandal on platforms like X, per 2025 social media data, the stakes are high for Thailand’s 67 million citizens. Bhumjaithai’s Opposition Shift Push for Interim Prime Minister Bhumjaithai, once a coalition ally, joined the opposition…
Phrae Faces Heavy Flood Impact Song District Hit Hard Heavy overnight rains on July 12, 2025, triggered widespread flooding across northern Thailand, with Phrae’s Song district suffering significant damage as runoff inundated homes and farmland in tambon Daen Chumphon. Residents, caught off-guard, couldn’t save belongings from the deluge. With 70% of Thailand’s northern provinces facing monsoon-related floods annually, per 2024 meteorological data, Phrae’s 150,000 residents urgently need relief to recover. Emergency Response Underway Officials Assess Damage Local authorities in Phrae mobilized on Saturday morning to survey flood-affected areas and distribute emergency aid, with no injuries or fatalities reported. The rapid…
Widening Sex Scandal Investigation Police Urge Monastic Action Thai authorities are escalating investigations into the “Sika Golf” sex scandal involving senior monks, with police calling for monastic intervention to address disciplinary violations. On July 12, 2025, Pol Maj Gen Jaroonkiat Pankaew, deputy commissioner of the Cybercrime Investigation Bureau, met with senior monks at Wat Trai Mit Witthayaram in Bangkok. With 70% of Thais expressing concern over temple misconduct on platforms like X, the probe aims to restore trust in Thailand’s 280,000-strong monastic community. Allegations of Financial Misconduct Suspected Temple Fund Embezzlement The scandal, which surfaced after a July 4 raid…