King marks 'new normal' by getting close to subjects

13 Sept 12:16 Key points summarised by AI

King Maha Vajiralongkorn is actively engaging with commoners through unprecedented actions like taking selfies, giving autographs, and direct interactions, signaling a significant departure from traditional royal protocol.
In a rare move, the King directly addressed foreign media, conveying messages of love and compromise to anti-monarchy protesters amidst growing calls for reform.
The monarchy is increasing its accessibility by allowing closer media coverage and accepting direct appeals from the public, fostering a 'new normal' in royal-subject relations.

Bai Lu meet-and-greet cancelled days after China’s safety warning

Yesterday 15:28 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand's Tourism and Sports Minister announced the government will seek clarification from the Chinese Embassy regarding its recent travel advisory warning Chinese nationals about safety concerns in Thailand.
The travel advisory is anticipated to negatively impact the number of Chinese tourists visiting Thailand, despite recent increases in arrivals.
A meet-and-greet event featuring Chinese actress Bai Lu, a WeTV Global Ambassador, was abruptly cancelled just days after the Chinese Embassy issued its safety warning, though no official reason was provided.
The Chinese Embassy's advisory urged citizens to beware of job scams, fraudulent investments, suspicious travel arrangements, and the risk of illegal detention or being lured to the Thai-Myanmar border.
Chinese nationals were advised to verify job offers, use legitimate transport, avoid high-risk border areas, protect personal documents, and keep family informed of travel plans.