Here is a look at the top NATIONAL Thailand stories, chosen by our Pattaya News/TPN National team, from last week, Monday, June 30th, to Sunday, July 6th, 2025.
They are not in any particular level of importance but are listed in the order of date of publication.
Let’s get started and see what the top stories were!
- The serene shores of Bangsaen Beach in Chonburi’s Saensuk Subdistrict were abuzz with excitement as three Bryde’s whales, including a mother and her two calves, were spotted surfacing near Wonnapha Beach.
The sighting highlights the growing presence of marine life along Thailand’s coast, with Soemsri noting an increase in food sources attracting more whales and dolphins to Bang Saen, Sri Racha, and Koh Si Chang.
2. Khao Kheow Open Zoo is gearing up for a spectacular celebration of the first birthday of “Moo Deng,” the beloved one-year-old pygmy hippopotamus who has captured hearts worldwide.
From July 10 to 13, 2025, the zoo will host a variety of activities at the hippopotamus exhibit. As a special treat, children under 135 cm tall or aged 12 and below will enjoy free entry throughout the four-day event.
3. Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), revealed progress on the venue selection for the Tomorrowland music festival.
The proximity to Suvarnabhumi, U-Tapao, and Don Mueang airports will help attract international tourists to attend the concert and explore Thailand.
4. A revered temple in the heart of Phuket was the site of a shocking act of violence early Saturday morning, when a monk allegedly shot and killed a fellow monk, citing long-term bullying and mistreatment as the motive.
The incident has deeply shaken the local community and raised concerns about conflict resolution and mental well-being within religious institutions. Wat Khao Rang, known for its serene atmosphere and popular golden Buddha statue, is now confronting the aftermath of violence within its sanctified walls.
5. As tourism and urban development continue to surge, Phuket Province finds itself battling a rapidly escalating waste management crisis.
With the island’s primary landfill nearing full capacity and its main incinerator recently undergoing repairs, garbage is now piling up in makeshift dumps, creating environmental and health concerns.
6. In a transformative move for Thailand’s southern infrastructure, the Department of Highways has officially launched a landmark initiative to boost traffic efficiency and regional growth: the design and construction of the nation’s first-ever suspension bridge linking Phang Nga and Phuket.
Thailands Ambitious Proposal for First Suspension Bridge to Connect Phang Nga and Phuket
The project is currently undergoing rigorous studies, including an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), to ensure responsible development.
7. Thailand’s Internal Security Operations Command Region 4 (ISOC 4) has concluded that recent coordinated planned bombings across Phuket, Phang Nga, and Krabi were likely orchestrated by the Barisan Revolusi Nasional (BRN), a southern insurgent group.
The motive, ISOC said, was to pressure the Thai government into resuming peace negotiations.
8. In a major decision with big political ramifications, Thailand’s Constitutional Court has voted to accept a petition seeking the removal of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, following the emergence of a controversial leaked audio clip.
Thai Constitutional Court Suspends Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra
The court further ruled that Shinawatra must immediately cease her duties as Prime Minister while the case proceeds.
9. Prime Minister and newly appointed Culture Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has announced she will personally oversee the new agency, reaffirming her vision to advance Thailand’s global influence through arts, heritage, and creative industries.
Describing the move as a strategic step, she highlighted the Ministry’s unique role in promoting Thai identity and cultural richness on the world stage, despite its relatively small size.
That’s all for this week, as always thanks for your support!
