The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has celebrated the successful conclusion of the Phuket Dining Festival 2025, held from 30–31 May, reaffirming Phuket’s global standing as a leader in sustainable dining. Co-hosted by Tatler Asia (Thailand) and supported by TAT, the event brought together top restaurants and premium food and beverage brands to highlight Green Gastronomy and Responsible Tourism.

Mr. Nithee Seeprae, TAT Deputy Governor for Marketing Communications, noted, “This event reflects how Thailand can lead in sustainable tourism while celebrating rich local cuisines and supporting community-based experiences.”

With participation from renowned names like BaBa Lee, Heh, hom, Jaras, Samut, Royd, Tamarind, and Su Va Na, the festival emphasized eco-conscious collaboration. Supported by partners like Evian, Jagota, and PHRAYA, the initiative responded to the global trend of conscious travel.

The event featured exclusive tasting nights with innovative dishes crafted using local ingredients and sustainable practices. From refined chef collaborations to live entertainment, the festival showcased Phuket’s ability to balance creativity, tradition, and environmental responsibility.

A strong focus was placed on Zero Waste Restaurant practices, contributing to Thailand’s national goal of reducing food waste from 37.03% to under 28% by 2027. This aligns with findings from the Sustainable Travel Study by Expedia and Wakefield, which reported that most travellers prioritize eco-conscious holidays and support for local communities.

Phuket Dining Festival 2025 not only highlighted the island’s culinary talent but also positioned it as a model for sustainable, experience-driven tourism.

Baht 57.86 Billion Inflows Driven by Japan, US, Singapore

Thailand’s Department of Business Development reported a 43% rise in foreign investments during the first four months of 2025, totaling 57.86 billion baht (~US$1.77B). A total of 363 foreign nationals received business permits under the Foreign Business Act.

Top 5 Investor Countries:

• Japan: 71 cases | ฿17.25B | Industrial & energy sectors

• USA: 51 cases | ฿2.48B | Retail, data centers, warehouses

• Singapore: 45 cases | ฿9.13B | Rail, software, logistics

• China: 43 cases | ฿6.47B | Wholesale, factory rentals

• Hong Kong: 40 cases | ฿5.77B | EV, cloud, manufacturing

EEC Investment Highlight:

The Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) attracted 108 investors (30% of cases), with ฿31.36B (54% of total investment). Key sectors included plastic molds, tire machinery, refrigeration parts, and metal coatings.

An Indian student was handcuffed and pinned down at Newark Airport before being deported, as shown in a viral video. Entrepreneur Kunal Jain, who shared the footage, described the student as harmless and in tears. “He came chasing dreams, not causing trouble,” Jain wrote, calling it a heartbreaking human tragedy.

The recent #Khalistan rally in Vancouver openly featured Pakistan’s flag above the Khalistan flag, highlighting clear Pakistani backing for this separatist movement.

On May 28, 2025, in Kasur, Punjab, Pakistan, Amir Hamza, co-founder of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and a U.S.-designated global terrorist, openly declared, “Kashmir will become Pakistan, and Punjab will become Khalistan.”

Moreover, Khalistan referendum posters are being actively printed in Pakistan, further confirming its involvement in fueling separatism.

According to @CBCterry’s report published by the @MLInstitute, Pakistan orchestrates the Khalistan movement by supporting extremists and leveraging sympathizers in Canada. Notably, the tragic bombing of #AirIndiaFlight182 remains a chilling reminder of Khalistani terrorism.

  Full Report: macdonaldlaurier.ca

Khalistan is a project of Pakistan

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Vancouver #Khalistan rally the #Pakistan flag is on top, with the Khalistan flag below it. This whole movement is backed by Pakistan & this is the reality & now these Khalistani also openly endorsing the Pakistani involvement. pic.twitter.com/0jpoNv66h9

— Navdeep Singh (@Navdeep_UK) June 9, 2025

Strategic alliances and sustainable tourism were highlighted as Thailand promoted regional connectivity at the Thailand Travel Mart Plus (TTM+) 2025 event in Chiang Mai. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) collaborated with Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) representatives and Bhutanese delegates to reinforce cooperation.

“Thailand aims to become Asia’s key tourism hub through stronger regional partnerships,” said TAT Governor Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool. Enhanced cooperation is expected to boost sustainable economic growth by coordinating marketing and promotional strategies across ASEAN.

Attendees included delegates from Myanmar and Cambodia, and Bhutan’s tourism department, under the “Two Kingdoms, One Destination” initiative to promote sustainable travel experiences.

The event attracted over 400 buyers from 51 countries and 450 sellers, highlighting cross-border tourism routes such as caravan self-drives connecting Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam; rail tourism linking Thailand to Laos and eventually China; and cruise tourism from Laem Chabang Port to Vietnam, Cambodia, Malaysia, and Singapore.

These efforts align with Thailand’s “Ease of Travelling” initiative, promoting seamless mobility and impactful destination marketing through integrated public-private partnerships.

Participants enjoyed immersive Thai experiences under the “5 Must Do in Thailand” concept, including iconic local cuisine, unique spa therapies, handicraft shopping, historic landmarks, and cultural experiences.

TAT anticipates these exchanges will elevate tourism quality, attract discerning travellers, and solidify ASEAN’s reputation as a premier global tourism region.

สภาความร่วมมืออ่าวอาหรับ (GCC) ประกอบด้วยซาอุดีอาระเบีย โอมาน กาตาร์ คูเวต บาห์เรน สหรัฐอาหรับเอมิเรตส์ และเยเมน สภาสุขภาพอ่าวอาหรับมีเป้าหมายเพื่อสร้างแพลตฟอร์มทางการแพทย์มาตรฐานสำหรับชาวต่างชาติที่เข้ามาในประเทศเหล่านี้ โดยรับรองการลงทะเบียนและการประเมินทางการแพทย์ที่เป็นหนึ่งเดียว

The Thai government has reaffirmed its stance on avoiding armed conflict amid rising border tensions with Cambodia.

On June 5, Thai Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Phumtham Wechayachai met directly with Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Gen. Tea Seiha. This was their first in-person dialogue, aimed at defusing tensions following recent incidents near the border.

Phumtham made it clear that Thailand seeks peace, not war. He proposed both nations return to previously agreed positions near the Trimuk Pavilion, roughly 150–200 meters from the current standoff location. He also reiterated Thailand’s long-standing position of not recognizing the International Court of Justice (ICJ) jurisdiction in such matters, as declared in 1960.

He emphasized that discussions should remain focused strictly on the conflict zone. While Cambodia did not immediately accept the proposal, officials agreed to forward it to Prime Minister Hun Manet and Senate President Hun Sen for consideration.

Phumtham confirmed that the Thai-Cambodian Joint Border Committee (JBC) meeting will proceed on June 14. If discussions stall, he suggested JBC representatives visit the disputed site. Meanwhile, Thai security bodies and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs are evaluating the situation and drafting strategic recommendations.

Responding to public criticism over photos taken during the border visit, Phumtham dismissed concerns about undermining national dignity. He warned against war rhetoric, noting it only delays peace efforts. While Thailand remains ready if necessary, he stressed that war ultimately causes suffering for both sides—especially for soldiers and civilians.

Source: https://thainews.prd.go.th/nbtworld/news/view/1175599/?bid=1

Narathiwat Province Hosts Cattle Ownership Transfer and Animal Release Ceremony in Honor of Her Majesty the Queen’s Birthday

Narathiwat Province organized a ceremonial event to transfer ownership and release cattle and buffaloes as a tribute to Her Majesty Queen Suthida Bajrasudhabimalalakshana on the occasion of Her Majesty’s birthday, June 3, 2025.

On June 4, 2025, at the 100 Years Narathiwat Auditorium, Mueang District, Acting Sub-Lieutenant Trakoon Thotham, presided over the event, joined by the Narathiwat Provincial Livestock Officer, heads of government agencies, and local farmers.

During the ceremony:

• Four farmers were formally granted ownership rights to livestock.

• Five female cows were released as part of the “Cattle-Buffalo Bank for Farmers Project,” a royal initiative under the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej the Great.

This initiative aims to support farmers by providing livestock for agricultural labor and increased productivity, enabling self-reliance through the Sufficiency Economy Philosophy.

The Cattle-Buffalo Bank Project, founded under His Majesty King Bhumibol’s royal guidance, was designed to address rural poverty by integrating local resources, encouraging group farming practices, and involving communities in project management. Additional benefits include the use of animal manure as natural fertilizer and the production of biogas—further contributing to sustainable, eco-friendly agricultural practices.

Source:  https://thainews.prd.go.th/thainews/news/view/1170603/?bid=1

Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt led city executives, officials, and staff in joining the Bangkok Pride Parade 2025 in celebration of Pride Month. Organized in collaboration with the national government, Bangkok Pride, and allied networks, this year’s parade was themed “Born This Way” – a powerful call to march forward together, shoulder to shoulder, with pride in embracing every identity.

City staff were encouraged to dress in line with their gender identity and expression, reinforcing the city’s commitment to inclusivity and equal rights for all. The event also promotes gender diversity values in Bangkok’s schools and society at large.

The parade began at the National Stadium (Thephasadin Stadium) and continued past major landmarks including MBK Center, Siam Discovery, Siam Center, and Siam Paragon, concluding at Groove at CentralWorld. Along the 2-kilometer route, visitors enjoyed photo booths, live performances, and interactive activities. A flower-laying ceremony was also held in front of Wat Pathumwanaram to commemorate victims of LGBTQIAN+ hate crimes.

This year, the Pride Parade was divided into five color-themed sections, each representing a unique concept:

1. Red – Born to be Loved

2. Purple – Born to be Me

3. Green – Born to be Part of One

4. Yellow – Born to Create & Inspire

5. Blue – Born to Heal Generations

Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) marched in the green section, the official color of the city, under the theme “Embracing Diversity.” In addition to the five core groups, two special highlight processions opened and closed the parade with vibrant and celebratory energy.

Beyond the parade, BMA actively supports gender diversity and inclusion by:

• Allowing staff to dress freely according to their gender identity and personal expression.

• Operating the BKK Pride Clinic to provide gender-inclusive healthcare services.

• Promoting diversity and equality through school programs.

• Providing public spaces for LGBTQIA+ activities and rights advocacy.

A significant milestone in 2025 is the legalization of same-sex marriage under the Equal Marriage Act (Civil and Commercial Code Amendment No. 24, B.E. 2567). Between January and May 2025, a total of 3,626 same-sex couples legally registered their marriages in Bangkok:

• 1,137 Thai male couples

• 2,489 Thai female couples

• 127 Thai male and foreign male couples

• 42 Thai female and foreign female couples

Bangkok continues to set an example of inclusivity, equality, and dignity for all.

Source: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1Ba2AvBRQx/