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Recent studies confirm a sharp rise in destructive wildfires and deadly heatwaves driven by climate change. Wildfire damages have tripled since 1980, and heat-related deaths are at record highs, highlighting urgent environmental and public health challenges worldwide. These trends are linked to extreme weather conditions worsened by global warming.
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Thailand's annual water buffalo festival in Chonburi highlights the animals' cultural significance, featuring races and beauty contests. The event reflects a shift from utilitarian farming to a celebration of buffaloes as symbols of heritage, supported by government initiatives amid declining populations and mechanization.
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Princess Chulabhorn of Thailand has called for a permanent border wall with Cambodia amid rising tensions. She also proposed building bunkers for civilians, signaling a rare political stance from the royal family. The move follows recent armed clashes and regional instability, with the U.S. pushing for agreements at upcoming ASEAN summits.
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Bank of England officials warn of potential recession risks as inflation remains high and growth slows. Meanwhile, US policymakers expect further rate cuts to support the economy, citing trade tensions and inflation. Asian economies face different challenges, with deflationary pressures and subdued inflation. The global outlook remains uncertain.
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Bella Culley, 19, from Billingham, UK, was sentenced to over five months in Georgia for smuggling drugs. She was found with 12kg of marijuana and 2kg of hashish at Tbilisi airport after being reported missing in Thailand. She is pregnant and has been transferred to a mother and baby unit following a plea bargain.
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Heavy rains caused severe flooding across 12 southern provinces of Thailand, affecting over 3 million people and resulting in at least 82 deaths. The government acknowledged shortcomings in flood management, announced relief measures, and received royal support, including a donation from King Maha Vajiralongkorn.
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President Trump will meet Chinese President Xi Jinping in Busan during the Apec summit, amid tense US-China relations over trade, fentanyl, and regional stability. The meeting aims to address key issues including trade disputes and border conflicts, with low expectations for significant breakthroughs.
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Thailand expects 33.4 million visitors in 2025, a 6% drop from last year, despite peak season arrivals. Concerns over safety, currency gains, and alternative destinations have impacted Chinese tourist numbers. The government is implementing measures to boost domestic and regional tourism, aiming for a recovery in 2026.
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US and UK authorities have sanctioned Prince Holding Group and its chairman Chen Zhi, accusing them of operating a transnational criminal network involved in online scams, money laundering, and forced labor. The US seized over US$15 billion in bitcoin, and assets in the UK and Singapore have been frozen. The case highlights extensive allegations of fraud and exploitation across Southeast Asia.
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Recent articles highlight how diet, oral health, and supplements influence aging, brain health, and disease risk. Studies show consistent healthy eating, oral care, and targeted nutrients can reduce stroke, support hair growth, and slow cognitive decline. These findings emphasize the importance of daily habits for long-term well-being.
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Thai authorities have extradited a Vietnamese activist who had been detained in Bangkok since last year despite concerns from rights groups that he could be in danger if sent back to Vietnam.
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On October 26, 2025, at the ASEAN summit in Kuala Lumpur, US President Donald Trump co-signed a ceasefire agreement between Thailand and Cambodia to end deadly border clashes. The deal includes military de-escalation, removal of heavy weapons, prisoner release, and ASEAN observer deployment. Despite the truce, core territorial disputes remain unresolved, and tensions persist amid trade negotiations and regional diplomacy.
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Myanmar's military launched operations against KK Park, a major cybercrime compound near the Thai border, detaining over 2,000 people and seizing Starlink equipment. Thousands of scam workers fled into Thailand amid ongoing civil conflict and regional pressure to curb cross-border cybercrime. The operation highlights Myanmar's role in transnational online scams.
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Vera Kravtsova, a Belarusian model, traveled from Bangkok to Yangon on September 20. Reports suggest she was kidnapped and tortured in Myanmar, with unverified claims of organ harvesting. Belarus and Thai authorities are investigating, amid concerns over scam compounds and trafficking in the region. The case remains unresolved as of today.
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President Trump is in South Korea for the APEC summit, where he expects to meet Xi Jinping to de-escalate trade tensions. Talks focus on tariffs, export controls, and US-China relations amid ongoing disputes over trade practices, rare earths, and technology restrictions. The outcome remains uncertain but signals a potential easing of tensions.
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President Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping are set to meet in South Korea amid ongoing trade tensions, tariffs, and export restrictions. Both sides signal a tentative easing, with hopes for a short-term détente that could influence global markets and regional diplomacy. The meeting follows recent signals of cooperation and mutual interest.
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Recent fossil studies reveal a close link between extinct Australian carnivorous marsupials and koalas, while conservation efforts in Nigeria and Okinawa show signs of success. Meanwhile, Thailand's artificial reefs are aiding marine ecosystems, and Hong Kong seeks to expand marine protected areas amid biodiversity concerns.
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Trade negotiations between the US and China have produced a framework that halts imminent tariffs and advances discussions on TikTok, rare earths, and agricultural purchases. Both sides aim for a summit in South Korea, with optimism tempered by caution over implementation and deeper strategic issues.
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US President Donald Trump is in Southeast Asia for a series of summits, including ASEAN and APEC, aiming to boost economic ties, oversee a peace deal between Thailand and Cambodia, and meet Chinese President Xi Jinping. The trip highlights US-China rivalry and regional security concerns.
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On October 24, 2025, Thailand's Queen Mother Sirikit, widow of King Bhumibol Adulyadej and mother of King Vajiralongkorn, died at 93 after a prolonged illness. The government declared a year-long mourning period with official guidelines for attire and public conduct. Despite the somber mood, tourism and public services continue, with cultural events proceeding in a subdued manner.
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US and Chinese officials have made significant progress in trade talks in Malaysia, raising expectations for a deal between Trump and Xi Jinping at the upcoming APEC summit in South Korea. The discussions focus on avoiding tariffs and addressing China’s export controls, with both sides aiming to de-escalate tensions.
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Recent articles highlight the US's growing vulnerability due to its dependence on China for rare earth minerals. China’s export controls and dominance in processing threaten US supply chains, impacting clean energy and defense sectors. The US is attempting to diversify but faces significant hurdles.
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Recent diplomatic efforts have led to a temporary easing of trade tensions between the US and China, with preliminary agreements and high-level meetings in Asia. Leaders from South Korea, Japan, and Southeast Asia also made progress, boosting regional markets and optimism for future cooperation amid slowing regional growth forecasts.
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Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has announced her intention to nominate Donald Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize, citing his efforts in brokering ceasefires and peace agreements. The move follows praise from US and Japanese officials, amid mixed domestic reactions and ongoing regional tensions.
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Recent studies show two key coral species in Florida are now functionally extinct after a 2023 marine heatwave. Meanwhile, Thailand's artificial reefs, created by sinking ships, are supporting marine life and potentially easing pressure on natural reefs amid climate threats.
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Israel has received the remains of several hostages, including Lior Rudaeff and Joshua Mollel, from Gaza as part of a ceasefire agreement. The process has been slow, with ongoing disputes over identification and the return of bodies. The exchange is a key element of the ongoing Israel-Hamas ceasefire.
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Recent protests in Morocco and Madagascar highlight rising inequality, public service cuts, and social unrest. The upcoming World Summit for Social Development aims to address these issues by focusing on equitable access to health, education, and social services. Wealth concentration and urban health disparities remain key challenges.
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Bella Culley, a 19-year-old pregnant woman from Teesside, was released from Georgian custody after serving five months for drug smuggling. She was arrested in Georgia in May while attempting to transport drugs from Thailand, claiming she was coerced through torture. Her family paid a substantial plea deal to reduce her sentence.
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Despite low unemployment rates, many Americans face prolonged joblessness, with over a quarter unemployed for more than six months. Experts highlight emotional and economic tolls, as companies hesitate to hire amid economic uncertainty and layoffs increase. The situation signals a bifurcated labor market with lasting impacts.
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A 26-year-old Israeli traveler was arrested at Phuket Airport with military-grade bullets in his luggage. Recent incidents involving Israeli tourists include public indecency, clashes with locals, and criminal charges, amid ongoing tensions related to Israel's conflict in Gaza. The situation highlights rising concerns over Israeli nationals' conduct in Thailand.
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A boat carrying approximately 300 Rohingya refugees from Myanmar sank near Langkawi, Malaysia, with at least seven dead, 10 survivors, and hundreds missing. The vessel likely capsized in Thai waters after departing from Rakhine state, amid ongoing migrant trafficking and perilous sea journeys. Search-and-rescue efforts continue today.
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On November 10, 2025, Thailand suspended a U.S.-brokered ceasefire with Cambodia after a landmine explosion injured Thai soldiers along their disputed border. Thailand accuses Cambodia of laying new mines, a charge Cambodia denies. The suspension halts prisoner releases and arms removal, casting doubt on the fragile peace brokered last month amid ongoing border tensions.
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A Thai appeals court has approved the extradition of She Zhijiang, a Chinese-Cambodian national, to China. He faces charges related to illegal online gambling, scam networks, and money laundering. She was arrested in Bangkok in 2022 and has been detained since. The extradition will proceed within 90 days.
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A boat carrying Rohingya refugees sank near Thailand’s Ko Tarutao island, resulting in at least 20 deaths and 14 survivors. The vessel, believed to have been part of a larger group split from a larger boat, was en route from Myanmar. Rescue efforts continue as authorities warn of ongoing risks for migrants at sea.
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As of late November 2025, Myanmar's military and allied ethnic militias have intensified raids on online scam centers near Myawaddy, detaining over 12,500 foreigners and seizing thousands of devices. These operations target criminal networks linked to human trafficking and cyber fraud, amid international pressure and the recent extradition of scam kingpin She Zhijiang to China.
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Thailand's King Vajiralongkorn visits China for his first official trip abroad since 2016, marking a significant shift in regional alliances. The visit emphasizes strengthening strategic cooperation, economic ties, and regional influence, amid ongoing border tensions and shifting US-China dynamics. The trip underscores China's growing regional influence and Thailand's balancing act.
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Former President Trump announced he stopped a five-day border conflict between Thailand and Cambodia, crediting tariffs and diplomatic efforts. The dispute, rooted in territorial disagreements dating back over a century, remains unresolved despite a ceasefire reaffirmed last month. Recent clashes threaten to reignite tensions in the region.
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Thailand has suspended its ceasefire with Cambodia after accusing Phnom Penh of laying landmines that injured Thai soldiers. The move follows recent border clashes and diplomatic tensions, with Thailand demanding an apology from Cambodia. The US has been involved in mediating, but trade negotiations remain suspended amid ongoing disputes.
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As of late November 2025, severe flooding and landslides triggered by relentless rains have killed 91 people and left 11 missing across Vietnam's central provinces, especially Dak Lak. Over 235,000 homes flooded, crops submerged, and infrastructure damaged, with economic losses estimated at $500 million. Neighboring Thailand and Malaysia also face heavy rains and flooding, affecting millions.
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A year after Reeves' tax hikes, the UK economy shows signs of slowdown, with weak Q3 growth, rising borrowing, and consumer uncertainty. Despite initial strong start, recent data indicates limited growth prospects for 2026 amid inflation and political pressures.
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As of November 29, 2025, severe flooding in southern Thailand has affected over 1.4 million households and 3.8 million people across 12 provinces. The death toll has risen to 162, with Songkhla province, especially Hat Yai city, hardest hit. Floodwaters are receding, enabling rescue and relief efforts, while the government faces criticism over flood management and plans compensation and aid.
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Thai billionaire Anne Jakkaphong Jakrajutatip, owner of Miss Universe, faces arrest warrant over fraud allegations amid her company's financial collapse and recent scandals at the pageant. She failed to appear in court and remains missing as legal proceedings continue.
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Severe flooding caused by cyclone-fueled rains has killed over 250 people across Indonesia, Thailand, and Malaysia, displacing thousands. Authorities face challenges reaching affected areas amid landslides, power outages, and overwhelmed morgues. Rain is expected to continue, prolonging the crisis as rescue efforts continue.
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Cyclone Ditwah struck Sri Lanka last week, causing the worst floods in a decade, with at least 56 deaths and thousands displaced. Heavy rains also affected India and Southeast Asia, leading to fatalities and widespread damage. Recovery efforts are ongoing.
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Severe flooding and landslides in Indonesia, Thailand, and Malaysia have resulted in over 400 deaths, with thousands displaced. Indonesia reports over 300 fatalities, Thailand 162, and Malaysia two. Heavy rains, exacerbated by climate change, continue to impact the region amid ongoing rescue efforts.
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Severe flooding in Indonesia, caused by cyclone and heavy rains, has resulted in at least 442 deaths and displaced nearly 291,000 people. Rescue efforts are ongoing amid infrastructure damage, blocked roads, and limited communication. Aid is being delivered via helicopters, navy ships, and satellite internet, with looting reported in affected areas.
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Flooding and landslides across Indonesia, Sri Lanka, and Thailand have killed more than 1,160 people, displaced hundreds of thousands, and caused widespread infrastructure damage. Heavy monsoon rains, intensified by rare tropical cyclones, are linked to climate change. Aid efforts are ongoing amid inaccessible areas and rising food prices. Today's date: Fri, 05 Dec 2025.
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Flooding across Indonesia, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Vietnam, and Malaysia has caused over 1,200 deaths and left thousands missing. Extreme weather linked to climate change has intensified storms and floods, with scientists warning that such events will likely worsen in the coming years.
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Cyclone-induced floods and landslides in Indonesia, Sri Lanka, and Thailand have caused over 1,300 deaths and left thousands missing. Environmental damage, including deforestation linked to illegal logging and mining, has worsened the disaster, with authorities warning climate change is a key factor. Rescue efforts are ongoing amid infrastructure damage.
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Recent data shows US adults' weekly alcohol consumption remains steady since 1975, with slight recent declines. Experts suggest economic factors, not long-term behavioral shifts, primarily drive current trends. Meanwhile, Thailand relaxes alcohol sales hours, testing a new policy after decades of restrictions. Pregnant women increasingly choose alcohol-free options, but lack clear guidance.