NNT- National News Bureau of Thailand

01/01/2025

Deputy National Police Chief Pol. Gen. Kraiboon Suadsong has outlined measures by the Royal Thai Police (RTP) and partner agencies to improve road safety during the New Year 2025 holiday season. Efforts include a helmet distribution program for youth groups as part of the “Switching Checkpoints to Distribution Points” strategy to reduce motorcycle-related accidents.

Over 40,000 officers have been deployed nationwide, operating 4,068 checkpoints to manage traffic and ensure public safety. Security measures at 49 major countdown event locations include crowd control, screening, emergency route management, and incident response plans. In total, 60,000 officers are on duty across the country to ensure safe celebrations and smooth traffic flow.

Daily traffic and accident data are analyzed to refine operational plans, with a focus on high-risk routes and accident-prone areas. On December 30, 261 road accidents were recorded, resulting in 267 injuries and 32 fatalities. The main causes were speeding (43.3%), drunk driving (22.61%), and abrupt lane changes (21.07%). Motorcycles were involved in 83.77% of incidents, with most accidents occurring on straight roads (77.78%).

From December 27 to 30, cumulative figures showed 1,134 accidents, 1,109 injuries, and 175 fatalities. Ayutthaya province reported the highest number of accidents and injuries, while Bangkok and Nonthaburi recorded the most fatalities. Fourteen provinces reported no deaths during this period. The RTP affirmed that all units will remain vigilant to ensure safer travel throughout the holiday season.

01/01/2025

Bangkok's Sanam Luang ceremonial grounds were lively on New Year’s morning (Jan 1) as families gathered to mark the Buddhist New Year, 2568 (2025). The day began with almsgiving ceremonies and prayer sessions, where participants offered food to monks and chanted Buddhist prayers. Many also paid homage to the Sacred Buddha Relic, creating a spiritual atmosphere as they sought blessings for a prosperous year.

Visitors participated in various cultural activities, including exhibitions honoring His Majesty the King’s 72nd birthday and detailing the history of the Sacred Relic. Daily prayer and meditation sessions provided opportunities for reflection and spiritual growth. Guests signed the Royal Well-Wishes Book and received royal calendars gifted by Their Majesties the King and Queen.

The event, running daily from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. until February 14, 2025, offers complimentary flowers, postcards, drinking water, and assistance for elderly and disabled visitors. Respectful attire is required for those entering sacred areas, with guidelines provided to ensure appropriate dress.

01/01/2025

Minister of Culture Sudawan Wangsuphakijkosol presided over the New Year’s Eve Prayer Ceremony on December 31 at Sanam Luang in Bangkok. The event was attended by Thai and international representatives, including a delegation led by Chinese Cultural Attaché Chang Yumeng. Religious leaders from Thailand and China, along with 73 monks from each country, conducted prayers and meditation sessions.

The ceremony began with Minister Sudawan lighting incense and candles, offering floral tributes, and delivering a royal homage to His Majesty the King. A sacred flame provided by the Supreme Patriarch was presented to the presiding monks for blessings. The Sangha Supreme Council led prayers, followed by Buddhist scripture recitations from the Chinese Sangha. The event concluded with a collective prayer, meditation, and the striking of a ceremonial gong at midnight to mark the arrival of the New Year.

Organized by the Ministry of Culture, the event drew over 5,000 participants to honor His Majesty the King and the royal family while offering blessings for the year ahead. A highlight was the veneration of the Sacred Buddha Relic, temporarily enshrined at Sanam Luang from Beijing’s Lingguang Temple. The relic will remain on display daily until February 14, 2025, in celebration of the King’s 72nd birthday and the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Thailand and China.

Exhibitions highlighting the King’s birthday and the history of the Sacred Buddha Relic are also being hosted, representing Thailand’s deep cultural and spiritual heritage while strengthening bonds with China through shared religious and historical traditions.

01/01/2025

Phu Kradueng National Park in Loei province welcomed a large number of visitors yesterday (Dec 31) at the iconic Mak Dook Cliff to witness the last sunset of 2024. Known for its stunning views of mist-filled valleys and layered mountain ranges, the viewpoint provided a serene conclusion to the year in a tranquil natural setting.

Mak Dook Cliff, one of Thailand’s most picturesque locations, served as the perfect spot for tourists to experience the sunset amidst cool weather and a sea of mist. The event created a memorable ending to 2024 for those gathered at the park.

Park authorities ensured the event ran smoothly, stationing staff along trails and at the viewpoint to manage crowds and maintain safety. The viewing area was organized to prevent overcrowding, ensuring attendees could fully enjoy the experience.

Visitors were reminded to dress warmly for the cold conditions at the summit, maintain cleanliness, and adhere to park regulations.

01/01/2025

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra delivered her New Year’s message for 2025, reflecting on the challenges and progress of the past year while sharing aspirations for the year ahead. Addressing the nation via Radio Thailand, she acknowledged the hardships faced in 2024, including severe flooding that disrupted lives, damaged property, and affected the economy. She praised the combined efforts of government agencies, local authorities, the military, and volunteers in helping Thailand manage these crises and outlined plans to improve infrastructure to mitigate future risks.

The prime minister also addressed the economic pressures resulting from global instability, trade restrictions, and international conflicts. She credited a coordinated approach and public cooperation for the country’s signs of recovery, with economic growth surpassing previous years. Paetongtarn reaffirmed the government’s commitment to sustaining progress and creating opportunities for Thai citizens in the coming year.

Looking to 2025, the premier described the year as one filled with opportunities for all Thais, making clear the importance of unity and resilience as the nation works toward shared goals. She expressed her hope for citizens to embrace the positive changes and opportunities ahead while enjoying meaningful time with family and friends during the holiday season.

In her message, she conveyed wishes for happiness, health, and success for all citizens. She also extended prayers for the continued well-being of the Royal Family and called for collective hope as the nation enters 2025 with optimism and determination.

01/01/2025

Their Majesties the King and Queen have graciously shared a New Year’s greeting card for 2025, extending their blessings to the people of Thailand. The front of the card features the emblem of the Chakri Dynasty in the center, with His Majesty’s royal cypher on the bottom left and Her Majesty’s royal cypher on the bottom right.

Inside the card, the left-hand side contains the message, “New Year’s Blessings 2025,” accompanied by Their Majesties’ royal signatures. The right-hand side displays a portrait of the royal couple framed in gold, with the Chakri Dynasty emblem at the top and their respective cyphers flanking the portrait.

The intricately designed greeting card conveys Their Majesties’ goodwill, offering a message of unity and hope to the Thai people as they welcome the New Year.

31/12/2024

31/12/2024

Moo Deng, the baby pygmy hippopotamus, has brought a significant surge in visitors to Khao Kheow Open Zoo.

31/12/2024

People in Thailand and around the world are celebrating the enactment of the Marriage Equality Act, which became law in June 2024. This landmark legislation follows decades of campaigning and marks a significant milestone for human rights and equality in Thailand.

31/12/2024

2024 saw several historical events that shook the political landscape of the Kingdom, let’s take a close look in this report.

31/12/2024

The Grand Royal Barge Procession, held months earlier, received widespread praise from the public, who gathered along the riverbanks to admire its elegance and grandeur. As the year comes to a close, we revisit this cultural spectacle and share more stunning footage of this unforgettable event.

31/12/2024

Thailand’s record-breaking heat in 2024 underscored the urgency of ASEAN’s climate cooperation. As extreme weather devastated the region, member states prioritized clean energy transitions, net-zero targets, and partnerships with nations like China and Australia to combat the escalating climate crisis.

31/12/2024

Newsline 31 December 2024

1. Public pleased after witnessing Grand Royal Barge Procession

2. 2024: A Year of Historical Shifts in Thailand’s Political Landscape

3. 2024: Severe Flooding Crisis Tests Thailand’s Resilience

4. World celebrates Thailand's marriage equality

5. Thailand’s Beauty Contestant Shines as Miss Universe 3rd Runner-Up

6. Moo Deng: Thailand's Viral Baby Hippo Captivates the World

7. Donald Trump Elected as 47th U.S. President

8. Escalation in Iran-Israel Conflict as Direct Attack Marks Shift

9. Copernicus Reports Record-Breaking Global Temperatures for June 2024

31/12/2024

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has been briefed on comprehensive preparations to ensure the safety and convenience of citizens and tourists attending New Year’s Eve countdown events nationwide. The Metropolitan Police Bureau, in coordination with the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration, Ministry of Interior, Ministry of Public Health, rescue organizations, and volunteers, has deployed personnel to key tourist areas. Similar measures have been implemented in provinces nationwide to create a secure and enjoyable festive atmosphere.

In Bangkok, police vehicles will be stationed from 6:30 p.m. at various locations to act as visible markers for tourists, with uniformed and plainclothes officers patrolling high-traffic zones. Evacuation points have been designated, and agencies are on standby to respond to emergencies. Provincial police units have also been tasked with preventing drunk driving, altercations, and illegal possession of weapons to maintain order during the celebrations.

Regional countdown events will showcase Thailand’s cultural and festive diversity. In the North, Chiang Mai will host the “Amazing Chiang Mai Countdown 2025” at Royal Park Rajapruek and other events at the Government Complex and Singha Park. Additional festivities are planned in Chiang Rai, Nan, Phitsanulok, and Phetchabun. Southern celebrations will feature illuminated landmarks and music festivals in Phuket, Surat Thani, Songkhla, and Satun. In the Northeast, Nakhon Phanom and Roi Et will host riverside festivals and city countdowns.

Bangkok’s highlights include the ICONSIAM Infinite Celebration 2024, featuring global artists such as Lalisa Manobal, alongside spectacular fireworks and live performances. The Amazing Thailand Countdown 2025 at Nagaraphirom Park will include a fireworks display, drone shows, and morning almsgiving on New Year’s Day. The prime minister has expressed gratitude to officials and volunteers for their efforts in ensuring the safety and success of the celebrations.

31/12/2024

Authorities have intensified alcohol control measures in Bangkok’s designated Safety Zones to improve road safety during the New Year holiday period. Inspections on Monday (Dec 30) focused on high-risk areas, including the Safety Zone Sandbox in Lat Krabang district, under the supervision of Metropolitan Police Division 3.

Vicharn Minchainant, Chairperson of the Committee for Sustainable Road Safety and Accident Prevention, led the inspections alongside the Commander of the Metropolitan Police Bureau at various locations across four administrative districts: Min Buri, Khlong Sam Wa, Nong Chok, and Lat Krabang.

During the visit, Vicharn provided supplies, including reflective vests, energy drinks, and bottled water, to Rom Sai Rescue Foundation volunteers to support their efforts on the ground. Inspections were also conducted in the districts Lam Luk Ka, Bang Chan, Suwinthawong, Chalong Krung, and Rom Klao.

The efforts represent a unified approach to promoting road safety and minimizing accidents during one of the busiest travel periods of the year.

#ความปลอดภัยถนน #ควบคุมแอลกอฮอล์

31/12/2024

The Ministry of Defense is implementing major reforms to address systemic challenges, improve military operations, and modernize its practices. Key priorities include overhauling the conscription process, addressing misconduct, and strengthening foreign relations to ensure trust and stability.

Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Phumtham Wechayachai stated the focus will include collaboration between policymakers and military leaders, digitizing conscription, enhancing career training for recruits, and launching joint learning programs for Navy, Air Force, and Army personnel. These programs have been developed with input from senior military officials and academic institutions.

Stricter measures are being introduced to address misconduct and safeguard the military’s reputation. Phumtham also addressed concerns about reshuffling and political interference within the armed forces, stressing discipline and the importance of lawful commands to maintain cohesion and national security. Consensus-building and mutual understanding are being prioritized within the Defense Council to address operational challenges effectively.

In foreign relations, the ministry has reaffirmed its stance on peaceful conflict resolution and balanced diplomacy, emphasizing adherence to international law. By fostering stable partnerships with key global powers such as the United States and China, Thailand will continue strengthening trust and cooperation internationally, enhancing the military’s role in domestic stability and international collaboration.

#ปฏิรูปกองทัพ #ปรับปรุงกระทรวงกลาโหม