THAI NEWS RECAP

Wild elephant in Ang Rue Nai sanctuary dies from severe injuries

A wild elephant from the Ang Rue Nai Wildlife Sanctuary in Chachoengsao province has died from severe injuries and infections. The elephant, estimated to be over 50 years old, was found immobilized with significant wounds and severe pressure sores. Despite receiving urgent medical care, including antibiotics and intravenous fluids, the elephant succumbed to its injuries. Officials are conducting an autopsy to determine the exact cause of death. The incident highlights the challenges faced by wildlife in the region.

Opal-Suchata Chuangsri wins Miss Universe Thailand 2024

Opal-Suchata Chuangsri won the Miss Universe Thailand 2024 title after an evening of intense competition. The event, featuring 40 contestants, culminated with Opal-Suchata's heartfelt response on women's empowerment, highlighting her breast cancer awareness project, "Opal For Her." Her answer resonated deeply with judges and the audience, securing her the crown. Suri-Suzana Renaud was named first runner-up, and Mook-Karnruethai Tassabut was second runner-up. Opal-Suchata will represent Thailand at the Miss Universe 2024 competition in Mexico.

Dengue infections in Thailand reach record 44,387 cases in first six months of 2024

Thailand recorded a significant surge in dengue infections in the first six months of 2024, with 44,387 cases reported, a 1.06-fold increase from the same period in 2023. The highest incidence rates were among children aged 5-14. The central region, excluding Bangkok, reported the most cases. Public health authorities are emphasizing preventive measures to combat this mosquito-borne disease.

Thai AirAsia flights between Bangkok & Lampang take off in October

Thai AirAsia will start daily flights between Bangkok's Don Mueang International Airport and Lampang beginning October 1, 2024. The new route, operated by Airbus A320 aircraft, marks the airline’s 25th domestic destination in Thailand. To celebrate, promotional one-way tickets start at 990 baht for travel from October 1 to March 29, 2025, available until July 28. This addition increases Thai AirAsia's domestic routes to 34, connecting various regions across the country.

Bangkok’s Wat Pho climbs Asia’s top travel list

Wat Pho in Bangkok has climbed to 9th place on TripAdvisor’s list of Asia’s top 25 travel destinations for 2024, praised for its tranquil ambiance, stunning architecture, and cultural significance. Other notable Thai landmarks include Wat Arun at 11th, Big Buddha in Phuket at 13th, and the Grand Palace at 25th.

Murder-suicide: 6 Vietnamese deaths linked to 10 million baht debt

Six Vietnamese nationals died in a Bangkok hotel in a suspected murder-suicide linked to a 10 million baht debt. Investigations revealed that one of the deceased, a Vietnamese-American woman, allegedly poisoned the others before taking her own life. The victims had been involved in a failed investment project in Japan, leading to the tragic incident. Cyanide poisoning is suspected as the cause of death.

One missing during Maha Sarakham reservoir breach flooding

A breach at the Huay Chiang Kham Reservoir in Maha Sarakham caused severe flooding, affecting 10,000 rai of farmland and resulting in one person missing. The breach, which created a 50-meter gap, released several million cubic meters of water. Heavy rainfall is suspected to have contributed to the incident. Efforts to close the breach and mitigate the damage are ongoing, with local authorities coordinating aid and evacuation procedures.

Thailand faces growing heart and cardiovascular disease crisis

Thailand is experiencing a severe heart and cardiovascular disease crisis, with over 23,667 deaths recorded in the first 198 days of 2024, averaging 119 deaths per day. The major contributing factors include lifestyle changes, stress, and infections like COVID-19. The situation is exacerbated by potential underreporting from rural hospitals. Efforts to address this crisis involve public health campaigns, promoting healthier lifestyles, improving healthcare access, and continued research on COVID-19's impact on cardiovascular health.

Discover Thai ancient history at Phimai National Museum

The Phimai National Museum in Nakhon Ratchasima province has reopened after renovations, offering an enriched experience of Thai ancient history. The museum features artefacts from the 11th-century Khmer sanctuary, Prasat Phimai, and other archaeological finds. Highlights include lintels from Prasat Phimai, sculptures of King Jayavarman VII, and exhibitions on prehistoric to contemporary Phimai history. The museum is open from 9 am to 4 pm Wednesday to Sunday, with free admission during the soft opening period.

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Praya Nakhon Cave

Praya Nakhon Cave, located in Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park in Thailand, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty and historical significance. The cave features a large opening that allows sunlight to illuminate the interior, creating a magical atmosphere. Inside, visitors can find the Kuha Karuhas Pavilion, a royal pavilion built in 1890 during the reign of King Rama V. The cave is accessible by a challenging hike or boat ride, making it a rewarding destination for adventurous travelers and nature enthusiasts.