Ghosts of history: What awaits PM Srettha at his new Government House residence?

14 Sept 05:38 Key points summarised by AI

PM Srettha Thavisin will make history as the first Thai prime minister to reside at Government House, planning to stay 3-4 nights weekly to ease security and traffic burdens.
Government House, serving as the PM's office since 1942, has never been a long-term residence for any prime minister, leading to "strange stories" and rumors of hauntings, including a reported ghostly encounter by Field Marshal Plaek Phibunsongkhram.
A newly renovated section of the Phakdibodin Building has been prepared as Srettha's bedroom, with a religious ceremony held to bless his move into the historically significant compound.
The nearby official PM's residence, Phitsanulok Mansion, also carries a reputation for being haunted, with past prime ministers avoiding long-term stays; however, Srettha has chosen Government House for his residence despite these historical anecdotes and rumors.

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.