Urgent Cleanup Underway as Songkhla Battles Flood Aftermath

On November 30, 2025, Mr. Surin Worakittamrong, Director-General of the Pollution Control Department (PCD), announced that the Minister of Natural Resources and Environment (MNRE) has directed all MNRE agencies to urgently support flood-affected communities. The response includes preparing bio-fermented liquid to address foul wastewater once the floodwaters recede, identifying temporary areas to store flood-related waste, and assessing damage to waste management and treatment systems to provide expert guidance for recovery.

Flooding has impacted ten districts in Songkhla—Mueang Songkhla, Bang Klam, Kuan Niang, Khlong Hoi Khong, Na Mom, Hat Yai, Rattaphum, Chana, Ranot, and Singhanakhon—resulting in significant debris from damaged households, such as furniture, appliances, construction materials, and general waste.

An evaluation of four active waste disposal facilities—Songkhla City Municipality, Ban Phru Municipality, Sadao Municipality, and Southern V Purity Co., Ltd.—confirmed they can still accommodate over 25,000 tons of waste. Additionally, 5–10 rai of land has been prepared for temporary storage to support proper sorting and disposal.

The PCD Director-General also stated that the agency will work with provincial and local authorities to set up additional temporary waste collection points near communities, allowing residents to quickly clear debris from their homes. Coordination with the private sector will also help reduce, sort, and repurpose waste, including producing Refuse-derived Fuel (RDF) for a cement plant in Thung Song, Nakhon Si Thammarat, or generating energy at a waste-to-energy plant in Krabi.

Environmental and Pollution Control Offices 14, 15, and 16 are working together to produce molasses-based bio-fermented liquid for distribution to local administrative bodies and agencies supporting flood-hit communities. This solution helps reduce odors caused by prolonged flooding and prevents the degradation of water sources.

A total of 6,940 liters of bio-fermented liquid has been produced, with 4,300 liters already distributed. Agencies in need of the solution may contact the Office of Environmental and Pollution Control 16.

Thailand Elevates Its Global Culinary Status with the MICHELIN Guide Thailand 2026


New Three- and Two-Star restaurants, rising talent, and expanded sustainability awards strengthen Thailand’s position as a world-class dining destination

Thailand Elevates Its Global Culinary Status with the MICHELIN Guide Thailand 2026

Thailand’s culinary scene reaches new heights with the release of The MICHELIN Guide Thailand 2026, announced by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT). This milestone edition showcases 468 outstanding restaurants nationwide, reflecting the kingdom’s continued rise as one of Asia’s most exciting and diverse gastronomic hubs.

TAT Governor Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool said the latest edition celebrates the depth, creativity, and responsibility of Thai gastronomy. “Each new star, promotion, and sustainability award highlights Thailand’s dedication to quality, innovation, and responsible dining. As we advance our Value Over Volume strategy, culinary excellence will play a vital role in attracting high-value global travellers.”

One of the most notable achievements this year is Sühring’s promotion to Three MICHELIN Stars, making it only the second restaurant in Thailand to receive the Guide’s highest honour. The Two MICHELIN Stars category expands with the elevation of Anne-Sophie Pic at Le Normandie and INDDEE, both previously One-Star restaurants.

Seven new establishments join the One MICHELIN Star list. These include newcomers Bo.lan, Cannubi by Umberto Bombana, and etcha, as well as four restaurants promoted from MICHELIN Selected: Gaggan, Juksunchae, Nusara, and Sushi Saito.

Sustainability recognition also strengthens with GOAT earning a MICHELIN Green Star, bringing the national total to five.

Thailand Elevates Its Global Culinary Status with the MICHELIN Guide Thailand 2026

Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the MICHELIN Guide, noted that Thailand continues to shine as a destination rich in creativity and diversity. “This year’s Guide reflects an even broader mix of cuisines, showcasing Thailand’s dynamic and constantly evolving food culture. With more MICHELIN Stars awarded, the country’s place on the global culinary map grows even brighter.”

The 2026 Guide also debuts a new accolade for Thailand: the MICHELIN Guide Mentor Chef Award, celebrating chefs who have made exceptional contributions to nurturing the next generation of talent. The inaugural honour goes to David Thompson, Owner-Chef of Aksorn (One Star) and Chop Chop Cook Shop (MICHELIN Selected).

Thailand Elevates Its Global Culinary Status with the MICHELIN Guide Thailand 2026 Thailand Elevates Its Global Culinary Status with the MICHELIN Guide Thailand 2026 Thailand Elevates Its Global Culinary Status with the MICHELIN Guide Thailand 2026

Other Special Awards include:
MICHELIN Guide Young Chef Award, presented by Blancpain – Suwijak Kunghae, Owner-Chef of Royd
MICHELIN Guide Opening of the Year Award, presented by UOB – Wilfrid Hocquet, Owner-Chef of Margo
MICHELIN Guide Service Award, presented by TAT – Arsen Brahaj, Restaurant Manager at Aulis, a One-Star restaurant in Phang-Nga

With 2 Three-Star, 8 Two-Star, 33 One-Star, 5 Green Star, 137 Bib Gourmand, and 288 MICHELIN Selected restaurants, the MICHELIN Guide Thailand 2026 firmly establishes Thailand as a world-leading culinary destination.

“Gastronomy continues to be a powerful pillar of Thailand’s tourism identity,” Ms. Thapanee added. “This year’s achievements reaffirm that Thailand is not only warm and welcoming but also a true global culinary powerhouse.”

To explore the full list of restaurants, visit the official MICHELIN Guide Thailand website: https://guide.michelin.com/th/en

Why WikiFX Keeps Ranking on Google – What Brokers Should Know

WikiFX continues to appear prominently in Google search results, and many brokers wonder how the platform maintains its visibility despite industry criticism. The key lies not in its reputation, but in technical SEO strength, a huge volume of published content, and aggressive keyword targeting.

Why WikiFX Keeps Ranking on Google – What Brokers Should Know

1. Massive Content Output

WikiFX publishes hundreds of articles, broker profiles, and so-called reviews across many languages. This constant output signals to Google that the domain is active and authoritative in the trading niche.

2. Strong Backlink Strategy

The site has accumulated links from:

  • financial forums

  • directories

  • trading communities

  • international content networks

This backlink footprint boosts its authority, even if the content quality is debated.

3. Multi-language, Multi-region SEO

WikiFX operates dozens of regional versions.
This allows them to dominate searches like:

  • “broker review”

  • “Is ___ a scam?”

  • “forex broker rating”
    This aggressive targeting keeps them high in results across Asia, Africa, and Europe.

4. Google Favors “Review-Type” Sites

Google’s ranking systems often give priority to platforms that appear to provide “research” or “reviews,” especially when searchers look for broker trustworthiness.
WikiFX fits this pattern, even though many brokers dispute the accuracy of its ratings.

5. High User Engagement Signals

Millions of traders search for broker safety checks.
Even if users disagree with WikiFX, they still click on it—creating strong user engagement signals, which Google interprets as relevance.


What Brokers Should Be Aware Of

1. A Listing Doesn’t Mean Endorsement

Just because WikiFX ranks on Google does not mean it is recognized as an official authority.
Google ranks pages based on SEO strength, not legitimacy.

2. Some Ratings May Be Inaccurate

Many brokers report:

  • incomplete information

  • outdated data

  • unclear scoring methods
    This can confuse traders.

3. Reputation Management Is Essential

Brokers should monitor:

  • Google search results for their brand

  • review platforms

  • public discussions
    Ignoring them allows misinformation to spread.


How Brokers Can Respond

1. Strengthen Official Online Presence

  • Google Business Profile

  • Active social media

  • High-quality blog posts

  • Press releases
    This helps push official content higher.

2. Publish Transparent Compliance Information

Regulations, licenses, audits, and legal documents build trust and outperform third-party claims.

3. Encourage Real User Reviews

Genuine customer feedback on Google, Trustpilot, and other recognized platforms improves credibility.


Conclusion

WikiFX ranks high on Google not because of its reputation, but because of its SEO power, aggressive publishing, and massive content ecosystem.
Brokers should treat it as part of the online landscape—but maintain control of their own narrative by strengthening their official digital footprint.

Thailand Establishes Central Relief Hub to Support Southern Flood Crisis

Thailand has opened a national coordination center to manage and distribute flood-relief aid to communities affected by severe flooding in the southern provinces. Lt Gen Adul Boonthumjaroen, Deputy Minister of Defence, has been appointed to oversee the center and lead inter-agency cooperation to ensure rapid, efficient delivery of assistance.

Thailand Establishes Central Relief Hub to Support Southern Flood Crisis

The hub is based at the National Aviation Museum of the Royal Thai Air Force in Bangkok’s Don Mueang district. It serves as the primary logistics base for receiving donations from government agencies, private organizations, and the public before forwarding supplies to hard-hit areas in the South.

On Wednesday (Nov 26), officials held a virtual meeting with the Emergency Flood Situation Command Center’s Front Operations Unit to assess conditions across the region. Agencies shared updates on response efforts and discussed additional measures needed to bolster relief operations.

Starting tomorrow (Nov 28), members of the public can deliver essential goods, emergency kits, and even drones to the Air Force Museum site. Personnel will sort, package, and transport the items to field teams working in areas where access remains challenging.

source: https://thainews.prd.go.th/nbtworld/news/view/1594860/?bid=1

Thailand Secures Global Wellness Summit 2026, with Phuket Named Host City

Thailand has officially been selected to host the Global Wellness Summit (GWS) 2026, one of the world’s most influential gatherings for the wellness economy. The announcement was made by the Global Wellness Institute during the 2025 summit in Dubai.

Thailand Secures Global Wellness Summit 2026, with Phuket Named Host City

The winning bid—presented under the theme “The Symphony of Wellness”—was jointly led by the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau, Phuket Province, and the Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine. The initiative highlights Thailand’s goal to elevate its long-established reputation as a global leader in wellness tourism.

TAT Governor Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool welcomed the news, noting that Thailand’s rich wellness traditions, natural assets, and innovative health services make it well-positioned to host a world-class event. She reaffirmed TAT’s support in ensuring a successful and memorable summit in Phuket.

Scheduled for 10–13 November 2026, GWS is expected to draw more than 600 delegates from over 30 countries, including global leaders in wellness, investment, policy, research, and Fortune 500 companies. The event is projected to boost economic activity and strengthen high-level business and policy engagement across Thailand’s wellness sector.

Thailand’s selection reflects years of progress in medical tourism, holistic therapies, Thai traditional medicine, and health innovation. Demand for Thailand’s wellness services continues to rise in international markets, particularly the Gulf region—reinforced by TAT’s Middle East Luxury Trade Meet held recently in Kuwait and Bahrain.

Phuket, the host destination, is advancing its vision to become a Global Wellness Capital, expanding its strengths in longevity care, medical innovation, wellness hospitality, and health-focused development. Hosting GWS 2026 is expected to accelerate investment, enhance global confidence, and position Phuket as a key wellness hub in Asia.

The summit aligns with Thailand’s long-term commitment to promoting wellness-driven travel, reflected in initiatives such as the global campaign “Unforgettable Experience: Healing is the New Luxury.” GWS 2026 will further showcase Thailand’s holistic wellbeing capabilities and strengthen international collaboration within the rapidly growing wellness economy.

TAT Launches Tourism Crisis Monitoring Centre to Assist Travellers Amid Southern Thailand Floods

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has activated the Tourism Crisis Monitoring Centre (TCMC) to strengthen nationwide support for travellers affected by severe flooding across Southern Thailand. The centre acts as a central coordination hub, ensuring accurate information, rapid assistance, and unified communication during ongoing weather-related disruptions.

TAT Launches Tourism Crisis Monitoring Centre to Assist Travellers Amid Southern Thailand Floods

TAT Governor Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool said the agency’s top priority is providing clear, timely updates and coordinated help for travellers facing uncertainty. She emphasized that TAT is working closely with national authorities and tourism partners to guide visitors safely through the evolving situation.

Heavy rainfall has disrupted travel in several southern provinces—Songkhla, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phatthalung, Trang, Satun, Surat Thani, Yala, Pattani, and Narathiwat. Hat Yai remains one of the worst-affected areas, where flooded routes have left many travellers unable to depart.

The TCMC is collaborating with embassies, consulates, tour operators, and provincial agencies to support stranded travellers. Efforts include organizing safe transportation from hotels to shelters and managing updated passenger lists provided through diplomatic missions for streamlined coordination.

TAT continues to release verified travel updates to help visitors plan safely and to support tourism businesses as conditions evolve. Once the situation stabilizes, authorities will assess broader tourism impacts and work on recovery strategies for affected destinations.

Travellers needing information or emergency assistance can contact the TAT Call Center at 1672 (Travel Buddy) or the Tourist Police Hotline at 1155.

Hat Yai Flood Relief Intensifies as Thousands Flee Rising Waters

Thailand’s southern city of Hat Yai is racing to respond to severe flooding that has forced thousands into overcrowded evacuation centers. The government’s Emergency Flood Crisis Operations Center confirmed that all national resources have been mobilized as waters continue to inundate large parts of Songkhla province.

Hat Yai Flood Relief Intensifies as Thousands Flee Rising Waters

Authorities have divided Hat Yai into four emergency zones, coordinated by the Royal Thai Armed Forces and supported by the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Police. The joint operation aims to reach submerged neighborhoods as quickly as possible.

Nine evacuation centers are currently open. Prince of Songkla University—originally prepared for 3,000 evacuees—is now sheltering more than 5,000 people. Eight other shelters, including temples and municipal facilities, are hosting over 8,000 displaced residents, with several centers exceeding capacity.

More than 3,000 personnel are deployed with 85 boats, 12 helicopters, five C-130 aircraft, 81 jet skis, and extensive medical and communications equipment. Authorities have received over 40,000 requests for assistance affecting 77,000 people, with 3,000 cases listed as urgent. Drones and additional C-130 flights are being used to rescue stranded individuals and support airlift operations.

Rescue and relief remain the top priority. Economic recovery efforts will follow, with Thailand’s Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas set to lead discussions on financial aid for flood-affected communities across the southern region.

Thailand Allows Drones for Southern Flood Relief Operations

Thailand’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAAT) has approved the use of unmanned aircraft (drones) to support disaster-relief operations in flood-hit areas of Southern Thailand. Effective from 25 November, the authorization covers search, rescue, and humanitarian missions aimed at reaching communities isolated by severe flooding.

Thailand Allows Drones for Southern Flood Relief Operations

Under the measure, drones may operate after 6:00 p.m., as long as they are equipped with clearly visible position and navigation lights. All operators must coordinate closely with local authorities in affected areas to prevent conflicts with manned aircraft and ensure safe use of shared airspace during emergency missions.

For any drone activity inside airport premises or within a 9-kilometre radius of an airport in the disaster zones, operators must notify the relevant airport authorities beforehand and begin flights only after receiving approval. This rule applies to both government agencies and approved civilian teams assisting in the relief effort.

Once flood conditions ease, all operators flying under this special authorization are required to submit an after-action report to CAAT within 30 days. The report must include flight locations, as well as the dates and times of each mission, and should be emailed to uas_ur@caat.or.th.

CAAT said the data collected will help strengthen civil aviation oversight and evaluate how drones are used in emergencies, supporting safer integration of unmanned aircraft into disaster-response operations in the future.

Source: https://thainews.prd.go.th/nbtworld/news/view/1590640/?bid=1

Thailand: Fourth Army Airlifts Emergency Supplies to Flood-Hit Hat Yai

The Fourth Army Area deployed two helicopters early this morning (Nov 26) to deliver food, drinking water, and oxygen to flood-stricken communities in Songkhla province in Southern Thailand. Hat Yai, the province’s largest commercial hub and a major urban center near the Malaysian border, has been severely impacted as floodwaters continue to restrict movement across the city.

Thailand: Fourth Army Airlifts Emergency Supplies to Flood-Hit Hat Yai

The airlift began at 07:30 from the Disaster Relief Center at the 42nd Military Circle in Hat Yai, where authorities have been coordinating responses to the expanding emergency.

Hat Yai Hospital had reported a critical shortage of oxygen cylinders and food supplies as surrounding roads became inaccessible. The Fourth Army launched an urgent mission to sustain essential medical services and support patients stranded by the crisis.

On the ground, military teams continued delivering food and water to residents trapped in isolated neighborhoods, working closely with provincial agencies to maintain access routes and reach heavily affected areas.

Officials confirmed that support for critical patients is being conducted under national emergency medical standards. The Royal Thai Army has committed additional resources beyond routine duties to assist communities throughout the flooded districts.

Residents needing help may contact the Disaster Relief Center at the 42nd Military Circle via 074-586685 or the ISOC Region 4 Forward Command Hotline at 1341, available 24/7.

Indian PM Meets South African President at G20 Johannesburg, Strengthens Strategic Partnership

Indian Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi met South African President H.E. Cyril Ramaphosa in Johannesburg on the sidelines of the G20 Summit. The Prime Minister expressed gratitude for South Africa’s warm hospitality and congratulated President Ramaphosa on the smooth and successful conduct of the Summit. He also appreciated South Africa’s efforts to advance and expand upon the outcomes of the New Delhi G20 Summit.

Indian PM Meets South African President at G20 Johannesburg, Strengthens Strategic Partnership

The two leaders recalled the deep historical bonds between India and South Africa and reviewed the strong progress across key areas of bilateral cooperation, including trade and investment, food security, skill development, mining, youth exchanges, and vibrant people-to-people relations. They also discussed expanding collaboration in emerging sectors such as Artificial Intelligence, Digital Public Infrastructure, and critical minerals. Both leaders welcomed the growing footprint of Indian companies in South Africa and agreed to encourage greater mutual investments, especially in infrastructure, technology, innovation, mining, and start-up ecosystems.

Prime Minister Modi thanked President Ramaphosa for the successful relocation of South African cheetahs to India and invited him to join the International Big Cat Alliance led by India.

Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to championing the voice of the Global South. Prime Minister Modi appreciated South Africa’s initiative in convening the IBSA leaders’ meeting. President Ramaphosa assured full support to India’s upcoming BRICS Chairship in 2026.

During the G20 Summit’s third session, themed “A Fair and Just Future for All – Critical Minerals; Decent Work; Artificial Intelligence,” Prime Minister Modi called for a transformative approach to promoting critical technologies. He stressed that such innovations must be human-centric, global in scope, and built on open-source principles. He highlighted how India’s technology ecosystem—across space applications, digital payments, and AI—reflects this inclusive vision.

Discussing Artificial Intelligence, Prime Minister Modi outlined India’s strategy focusing on equitable access, mass-level skilling, and responsible use. He noted that under the India-AI Mission, the country is developing accessible high-performance computing to ensure AI benefits reach all citizens. Calling for AI to serve as a global public good, he proposed a global compact grounded in transparency, human oversight, safety-by-design, and prevention of misuse. He emphasized that AI should enhance human capabilities, but final decisions must always rest with people. Prime Minister Modi also announced that India will host the AI Impact Summit in February 2026, under the theme “Sarvajanam Hitaya, Sarvajanam Sukhaya” (Welfare for all, Happiness for all), and invited all G20 nations to participate.

Highlighting the rapid transformation of the global workforce in the age of AI, Prime Minister Modi urged a shift from focusing on “jobs of today” to building “capabilities of tomorrow”. He recalled the progress on talent mobility achieved at the New Delhi G20 Summit and proposed that the G20 develop a Global Framework for Talent Mobility in the coming years.

The Prime Minister concluded with India’s commitment to global progress—championing sustainable development, trusted trade, fair finance, and shared prosperity for all.

Source: https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-meets-with-president-of-south-africa-on-the-sidelines-of-g20-summit-in-johannesburg/