Prasert issues Singapore MoU denial
Prasert issues Singapore MoU denialListen to this articlePrasert JantararuangtongPheu Thai Party secretary-general Prasert Jantararuangtong denied wrongdoing in the Singapore MoU case, saying he has not yet received a summons from the Department of Special Investigation (DSI). Mr Prasert on Monday spoke to the media regarding the DSI's plan to question officials about the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society (MDES) and Singaporean company Prime Opportunity Fund VCC. He added that he did not know how Mr Mauerberger came to appear at the event, stating that he attended solely as a witness. According to him, the signing itself was conducted by government officials and a representative of the Singaporean company. He also denied having any personal relationship or interaction with Mr Mauerberger.
Source:Bangkok Post
December 22, 2025 23:31 UTC
Big cat hybrids given regulated species status
Big cat hybrids given regulated species statusListen to this articleA liger is a hybrid animal resulting from the mating of a male lion and a female tiger, both belonging to different species within the same genus (Panthera). Sriayuthaya Lion Park Facebook PageThe Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment has issued a new regulation designating ligers (male lion–female tiger hybrids) and tigons (male tiger–female lion hybrids) as regulated wildlife species which require official possession permits under the Wildlife Preservation and Protection Act. The move is meant to close legal gaps, enhance animal welfare protections, and improve public safety. Previously, hybrids such as ligers and tigons were not classified as regulated species requiring registration, allowing individuals to keep them without permits or oversight, which created risks in terms of animal care, safety, and traceability. By classifying them as regulated species, authorities can now monitor housing conditions, enforce safety standards, and ensure proper welfare management, reducing risks to both owners and surrounding communities.
Source:Bangkok Post
December 22, 2025 23:30 UTC
TOA Reveals 2026 Colour Trend: The Pigmentum
Each year, the architectural paint industry looks to TOA Paint (Thailand) Public Company Limited for insight into emerging colour directions. For 2026, TOA moves beyond the idea of colour as mere decoration, introducing a new concept titled “The Pigmentum,” which positions colour as a source of energy, inspiration and momentum in everyday life. TOA describes its 2026 colour trends not simply as stylistic choices, but as an invitation to reconnect with calm inner energy and rediscover balance through thoughtful colour selection. TOA Color Trends 2026 – The Pigmentum therefore present colour as a dynamic force that supports emotional growth, creativity and confident living. Consultation and design services are available through the TOA IdeaColor team at www.toagroup.com for homeowners seeking tailored colour solutions.
Source:Bangkok Post
December 22, 2025 07:48 UTC
Aranyaprathet train station closed because of fighting
Aranyaprathet train station closed because of fightingListen to this articleThe Aranyaprathet railway station connects with Ban Khlong Luk border station, which adjoins Cambodia. (Photo: State Railway of Thailand)The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) has announced the temporary closure of Aranyaprathet railway station in the eastern border province of Sa Kaeo because of the border conflict with Cambodia. The announcement on Sunday night followed an escalation of the fighting along the border in Sa Kaeo. Services now terminate at Sa Kaeo station. Train 279: Bangkok (Hua Lamphong) - Sa KaeoTrain 280: Sa Kaeo - BangkokTrain 275/276: Bangkok - Sa Kaeo – BangkokAranyaprathet station connects with the eastern line's last stop, Ban Khlong Luk border station, which adjoins Cambodia.
Source:Bangkok Post
December 22, 2025 06:07 UTC
US in 'pursuit' of third oil tanker in Caribbean: official
US in 'pursuit' of third oil tanker in Caribbean: officialListen to this articleOne day after seizing the Centuries, the US says it is pursuing another allegedly sanctioned oil tanker near VenezuelaWASHINGTON (UNITED STATES) - The US Coast Guard was pursuing another allegedly sanctioned tanker on Sunday, a US official told AFP, as Washington ramps up its pressure campaign targeting Venezuela's vital oil sector. The "active pursuit" in the Caribbean Sea was happening a day after the Coast Guard seized its second vessel off Venezuela in two weeks. "The United States Coast Guard is in active pursuit of a sanctioned dark fleet vessel that is part of Venezuela's illegal sanctions evasion. News outlets identified the ship involved as the Bella 1, an oil tanker under US sanctions since 2024 because of alleged ties to Iran and Hezbollah. - Chevron tanker -Venezuelan Vice President Delcy Rodriguez on Sunday posted a statement to social media about oil giant Chevron sending a tanker from Caracas to the United States carrying Venezuelan oil -- without mentioning either vessel interdicted by Washington.
Source:Bangkok Post
December 22, 2025 06:05 UTC
Nicki Minaj calls Vance 'assassin' in exchange with Erika Kirk
Rapper and singer-songwriter Nicki Minaj described U.S. Vice President JD Vance as an "assassin" during an appearance with Erika Kirk, the widow of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, who was assassinated by a gunman in September.
Source:Bangkok Post
December 22, 2025 05:56 UTC
Manhunt underway after deadly South Africa shooting
At least nine people were killed and 10 wounded in an early morning shooting in a township south-west of Johannesburg, the South African Police Service said on Sunday (December 21), adding that authorities have launched a manhunt for multiple suspects.
Source:Bangkok Post
December 22, 2025 05:56 UTC
Mahindra Bolero: A Closer Look at Its Engine, Mileage, and Key Features
Mahindra Bolero: A Closer Look at Its Engine, Mileage, and Key FeaturesFor over two decades, the Mahindra Bolero has been India’s most trusted SUV — a symbol of durability, practicality, and rugged charm. Let’s take a closer look at its engine specifications, mileage, and standout features that continue to make it a favourite across India. Engine and PerformanceAt the heart of the Mahindra Bolero is Mahindra’s tried-and-tested mHawk75 diesel engine, engineered for power and long-term dependability. Safety and Durability The Mahindra Bolero has built its reputation on strength, and safety remains one of its key selling points. Final ThoughtsThe Mahindra Bolero continues to prove why it’s an icon in the Indian SUV market.
Source:Bangkok Post
December 22, 2025 05:43 UTC
Central Pattana unveils nine artisan Christmas trees nationwide
Central Pattana invites everyone to celebrate the beauty of Thai art and culture presented through nine Christmas trees collectively called "The Magical Thai Pride", which are displayed at branches of Central shopping centres. Hailed as the world's only Christmas tree series showcasing a uniquely Thai identity and crafted by artisan communities across the country, this year's initiative pays tribute to HM Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother, honouring her lifelong dedication to the preservation of Thai arts, crafts and community development. The "Festival of Lights: Batik Christmas" at Central Hatyai celebrates Southern batik artistry and amplifies Songkhla's creative identity; the "Coco Christmas Tree: Praw Rasa" at Central Surat Thani is crafted from coconut shells and woven materials; while "Ton Mok Panwa" at Central Chiangrai is made of intricately woven bamboo. "Weaving The Future, Embracing The Origin" at Central Chiangmai Airport is a contemporary woven-craft Christmas tree honouring Lanna artisans; "The Rose In Heaven" at Central Korat is sculpted from iconic Dan Kwian clay and decorated with 93 handcrafted roses; and the "Gift Of Wisdom Tree" at Central Chonburi features traditional Phanat Nikhom bamboo weaving. Inspired by Thai orchids, the "Salaya Melody Of Orchid" at Central Salaya transforms floral beauty into a poetic melody celebrating love, nature and serenity, while the "Fleur De Sel Christmas Tree" at Central Mahachai highlights Thailand's coastal salt-making heritage.
Source:Bangkok Post
December 22, 2025 05:43 UTC
Tree of Tomorrow Lights a Sustainable Christmas
This festive season, sustainability takes centre stage at Siam Paragon with the unveiling of “Tree of Tomorrow,” a contemporary Christmas tree created through a collaboration between global sustainable chemical company Indorama Ventures Public Company Limited, Thai fashion brand VINN PATARARIN, and leading retail and real estate developer Siam Piwat. Standing four metres tall, the installation features more than 90 metres of recycled polyester (rPET) fabric produced by Indorama Ventures from over 880 post-consumer PET bottles. VINN PATARARIN applied its signature laser-cut techniques and experimental textile design to transform the recycled materials into a visually striking Christmas tree, demonstrating how circular materials can be elevated through thoughtful and creative design. Through the installation, Indorama Ventures aims to engage more directly with consumers while raising awareness of PET recycling and the value of circular materials in everyday life. As a founding member of NEXTOPIA, the company continues to collaborate with Siam Piwat to inspire more sustainable lifestyles through interactive experiences, recycling education and PET collection points.
Source:Bangkok Post
December 22, 2025 04:56 UTC
Call scam iPhones found in plantation near Cambodia
Call scam iPhones found in plantation near CambodiaListen to this articleRangers show the iPhones and other gear found in a rucksack left at a plantation in Aranyaprathet district, Sa Kaeo, on Sunday. The bag was believed to have been left for smugglers to collect and take into Cambodia for use by a scam gang. The grey rucksack was found in a sugarcane plantation behind Wat Sutthawat in Ban Thung Ruang Thong in tambon Khlong Nam Sai on Sunday by a ranger patrol. It contained 22 iPhone 11s of different colours, one iPhone SE, 20 new prepaid Hong Kong SIM cards, 28 charging cables, a keyboard and a mouse. The seized gear was taken to the Khlong Nam Sai police station for further examination.
Source:Bangkok Post
December 22, 2025 04:49 UTC
Unsafe levels of smog in Bangkok and 23 provinces
Unsafe levels of smog in Bangkok and 23 provincesUnsafe levels of PM2.5 dust covered Bangkok and 23 provinces, mostly in the Central Plains, on Monday morning. The Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (Gistda) reported at 6am that unsafe levels of PM2.5 ranged from 37.6 to 50.6 microgrammes per cubic metre (µg/m³) of air in Bangkok and 23 provinces. Other places blanketed with thick and harmful smog included Pathum Thani, Nakhon Pathom, Bangkok, Ayutthaya and Chon Buri. Very good air quality was detected in 12 provinces where PM2.5 levels were between 8.9 and 14.4µg/m³, including Mae Hong Son, Chiang Rai and Phatthalung. The Meteorological Department said the smog was due to stagnant air which would continue until Wednesday.
Source:Bangkok Post
December 22, 2025 01:26 UTC
'Major progress' in FTA talks
'Major progress' in FTA talksListen to this articleCommerce Minister Suphajee SuthumpunThailand and Peru have made "significant progress" in negotiations to upgrade their bilateral free trade agreement (FTA), with both sides agreeing on major elements covering wider market access and deeper economic cooperation, Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthumpun says. The Department of Trade Negotiations said talks to modernise the existing FTA, which have been ongoing for years, have now reached a substantial conclusion on core issues, Ms Suphajee said. Negotiations to upgrade the FTA had stalled for more than a decade before being revived in the middle of this year. Peru, Ms Suphajee said, is an economy in South America with strong potential. Bilateral trade totalled US$464.04 million (14.5 billion baht), with Thailand recording a trade surplus of $239.96 million.
Source:Bangkok Post
December 22, 2025 00:39 UTC
AI advances highlighted as crucial for industry in 2026
AI advances highlighted as crucial for industry in 2026Listen to this articlePhoto: 123RFThe rise of agentic artificial intelligence (AI), multi-agent systems, and the evolving demands for security and privacy are the keys to success for Thailand's AI startups, according to local industry pioneers. "By 2026, the AI industry is expected to advance towards more agentic, autonomous, and multi-functional AI systems," Sathapon Patanakuha, chief executive of Guardian AI Lab, an AI-driven solutions firm, said at a seminar on the 2026 outlook held by the AI Entrepreneur Association of Thailand. Mr Sathapon said the AI industry is moving towards multi‑agent, interoperable networks that operate seamlessly across systems. He said chatbots, voicebots, digital human kiosks and humanoid robots are simply different interface formats for the same underlying AI agents. AI startups and businesses must focus on use cases that can generate revenue, reduce costs, or improve productivity.
Source:Bangkok Post
December 22, 2025 00:22 UTC
Dell sets out major AI advances in 2026
Dell sets out major AI advances in 2026Listen to this articlePhoto: 123RFAgentic artificial intelligence (AI), sovereign AI, and stronger governance frameworks, coupled with measurable business outcomes, will be the defining AI trends in 2026, according to Dell Technologies. "In 2026, external and internal governance will be the most important factor in accelerating AI adoption," said Mr Roese. Another trend is the emergence of a knowledge layer, which is essential for putting AI into real production, said Mr Roese. Dell partnered with Nvidia nearly three years ago to launch its AI Factory, a platform designed to streamline AI deployment. Dell reports AI return of investment ratios as high as 30 to 1 in terms of generating bottom-line impact.
Source:Bangkok Post
December 22, 2025 00:20 UTC