Thai archaeologist on mission to reclaim ancient Khmer sculpture from US

14 Sept 00:44 Key points summarised by AI

Thai archaeologist Tanongsak Hanwong spearheads an effort to reclaim a bronze Khmer sculpture, known as the 'Golden Boy' and believed to be King Jayavarman VI, from the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York.
Evidence, including a local villager's testimony and historical records, suggests the 110cm sculpture was unearthed at Prasat Ban Yang ruins in Buri Ram, Thailand, about 50 years ago before being smuggled abroad.
Tanongsak asserts the 'Golden Boy' is a unique piece of Phimai art, representing a human figure consistent with King Jayavarman VI's Buddhist beliefs, a style not found in Cambodia.
While the archaeologist is confident in the sculpture's Thai origin, the Fine Arts Department requires more conclusive evidence before formally requesting its repatriation from the United States.
This mission follows the successful return of two 11th-century stone lintels from a US museum last year, establishing a precedent for the reclamation of Thai cultural artifacts.

Nationwide crackdown launched on illegal nominee shareholders and land holdings

Yesterday 15:20 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand's Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul initiated a nationwide crackdown on illegal Thai nominee shareholders in foreign-run businesses and land holdings to safeguard national interests.
The government will integrate efforts across all relevant agencies to target illicit foreign operations, forced sales of illegally acquired property, and high-risk land ownership schemes.
Key strategies include auditing suspect land and building holdings, establishing a long-term monitoring system, and cross-referencing data from various authorities to trace ultimate beneficial owners.
Prime Minister Anutin emphasized that no influential figures or corrupt officials are above the law, promising straightforward prosecution, asset seizures, and protection for enforcing officers.
Beyond land ownership, the integrated crackdown will also extend to tackle transnational crimes, including drug and human trafficking.