The State Railway of Thailand officially launched a special heritage steam train service on the Bangkok-Ayutthaya-Bangkok route on July 28, 2025, marking the birthday of His Majesty the King. SRT Governor Anant Photinimitdaeng presided over the ceremony at Bangkok Station (Hua Lamphong), accompanied by Prasit Thaworn, Director of Passenger Services, and Annaporn Wongvijarn, Senior Mechanical Engineer, along with railway staff, officials, and the public expressing their loyalty and well-wishes.

The heritage steam train service was designed to allow citizens to celebrate this important national occasion while experiencing a nostalgic journey through history to Ayutthaya, a UNESCO World Heritage city rich in historical significance, art, culture, and local identity. The initiative supports rail tourism promotion, historical heritage conservation, and sustainable tourism development in the region.

Ayutthaya is a major tourist destination for both Thai and international visitors, featuring valuable ancient monuments and temples, riverside Chao Phraya lifestyle, historic markets, and distinctive local cuisine. The steam train journey allows passengers to step back in time, immerse themselves in historical atmosphere, and appreciate the beauty of this world heritage city.

The SRT plans to operate heritage steam trains seven times annually on significant occasions. The next scheduled service will run on August 12, 2025 (Mother's Day) on the Bangkok-Chachoengsao-Bangkok route, offering passengers another opportunity to experience this memorable journey. Interested passengers can book tickets or request information through the SRT Customer Service Center at 1690 (available 24/7) or follow updates on the "PR Team State Railway of Thailand" Facebook page.

NAKHON SI THAMMARAT — Standing at the heart of Nakhon Si Thammarat for more than 1,500 years, Wat Phra Mahathat Woramahawihan represents more than a place of worship. It is a living record of religious exchange, maritime connections and cultural traditions that shaped Southeast Asia.

The temple was recently recognized as Thailand's ninth UNESCO World Heritage site and the first in the southern region, marking international recognition of its outstanding cultural significance.

Located on the Malay Peninsula, between the Indian and Pacific oceans, Wat Phra Mahathat developed in an area once connected by major maritime trade routes. These networks brought not only goods and merchants, but also religious beliefs, artistic styles and architectural influences from across Asia.

Over centuries, the temple absorbed influences from Brahmanism, Hinduism, Mahayana Buddhism and Theravada Buddhism, with cultural connections stretching from northeastern India and Sri Lanka to central Java and Mon communities in southern Myanmar.

These diverse influences were transformed into a unique architectural and spiritual identity that later spread throughout Thailand and other parts of Southeast Asia.

At the center of the temple stands the Phra Borom That Chedi, a towering stupa believed by devotees to enshrine relics of the Buddha. According to local tradition, the site was originally an ancient sand dune known as "Hat Sai Kaeo," where Buddhist relics were discovered before a major religious monument was built there.

Beyond its architecture, UNESCO recognized the temple as a living cultural site where traditions continue to be practiced today.

Among them is the annual Hae Pha Khuen That festival, where devotees bring long pieces of cloth to wrap around the stupa as an act of devotion. The temple is also connected to Nora, a traditional performing art form from southern Thailand that reflects centuries of local beliefs and storytelling.

The recognition of Wat Phra Mahathat is not only about preserving an ancient monument, but also protecting the living heritage surrounding it — including rituals, local knowledge and cultural practices passed down through generations.

The journey toward World Heritage status began in 2009 and took 17 years of preparation, reflecting the temple's importance not only to Nakhon Si Thammarat, but also to the wider history of Southeast Asia.

Today, Wat Phra Mahathat Woramahawihan stands as a symbol of how cultures, religions and communities have connected across the region for centuries.

The Koh Samui branch of the Regional Waterworks Authority (RWA) has implemented a seven-day rotating water supply system starting August 3rd in response to an ongoing drought that has sharply reduced raw water supplies. The island's water production capacity is now limited to approximately 16,000 cubic meters per day from the pipeline system connecting to the mainland, while average demand stands at 34,000 cubic meters daily, creating a shortfall of 18,000 cubic meters per day.

The RWA has divided the island into two water supply zones—yellow and red-green—with rotating service schedules throughout the seven-day cycle. Residents are being asked to store water for days when their zone receives no supply and to use water conservatively.

The shortage is affecting communities across the island, with some neighborhoods experiencing weak or intermittent water flow for extended periods, disrupting daily consumption, cooking, and sanitation. Households are facing additional costs from purchasing water from private tanker trucks. Tourism businesses including restaurants, hotels, resorts, and tour operators are also suffering from increased expenses for securing backup water supplies. Many stakeholders worry that prolonged shortages could damage tourist confidence and harm Koh Samui's reputation as an international destination.

Bangkok checkpoint uncovers five undocumented Myanmar migrantsLegacySeven Myanmar nationals were arrested yesterday, July 27, after police intercepted a car carrying five undocumented migrants during a late-night alcohol checkpoint in Bangkok. Officers stopped a black sedan with Kanchanaburi licence plates at a checkpoint on Phetkasem Road in Nong Khaem district. The 25 year old driver, a Myanmar national, and his 33 year old passenger, also from Myanmar, were able to communicate in Thai. Police found five other Myanmar nationals crammed into the rear of the vehicle, including two men who were allegedly hiding behind the back seats. The five passengers were unable to communicate in Thai and could not produce passports or any immigration documents. During questioning, the driver and front-seat passenger allegedly admitted they had been hired by a man known only as Joe to transport the five migrants. Police said the group had crossed into Thailand through a natural border crossing in Kanchanaburi before being taken to a temporary stop in Sam Phran district, Nakhon Pathom. The pair allegedly told investigators they were transporting the migrants to Samut Prakan for 900 baht per person. Photo via FM91 Police seized the car and two notebooks containing records and names allegedly linked to illegal migrant transportation. The two men were charged with helping illegal migrants enter or remain in Thailand unlawfully. Under Section 64 of Thailand’s Immigration Act, knowingly sheltering, concealing or otherwise assisting a person who has entered the country illegally to avoid arrest carries a maximum penalty of five years’ imprisonment, a fine of up to 50,000 baht, or both. The five passengers were charged with being in Thailand without permission. Under Section 81 of Thailand’s Immigration Act, the offence carries a maximum penalty of two years’ imprisonment, a fine of up to 20,000 baht, or both. FM91 reported that police are expanding the investigation to locate the alleged organiser, known only as Joe. Elsewhere, earlier in January, highway police arrested a pickup truck driver and uncovered 25 undocumented Myanmar migrant workers after a late-night pursuit on a major road in Nakhon Sawan. The story Bangkok checkpoint uncovers five undocumented Myanmar migrants as seen on Thaiger News.

Nutritionists have warned three groups to consume watermelon in moderation, emphasizing its antioxidant benefits while cautioning against eating it before bedtime.

As summer begins, watermelon stands out as the go-to fruit on market shelves, prized for its sweetness, juiciness, and excellent cooling properties. Nutritionists explain that the English name "Watermelon" perfectly captures the fruit's essence, with "water" referring to its composition—over 90% of watermelon flesh is water, making it an excellent rehydrating choice during hot weather.

Beyond hydration, watermelon is packed with beneficial nutrients including lycopene, beta-carotene, citrulline, potassium, and magnesium, which combat free radicals, enhance blood circulation, and are ideal for summer consumption. Nutritionists also highlight that choosing seasonal, locally-sourced produce aligns with ESG principles and offers practical daily benefits: fresher fruit at better prices, reduced transportation emissions, and support for domestic farmers.

Watermelon offers more than just cooling relief. While many believe watermelon contains only water, it actually provides numerous valuable nutrients:

**Hydration and nutrient replenishment** — ideal for those who perspire heavily, experience thirst, or engage in outdoor activities, providing water, vitamins, and minerals superior to sugary beverages.

**Red-fleshed watermelon contains lycopene**, a powerful antioxidant that protects cells from free radical damage and supports heart and cardiovascular health. This is especially beneficial for those who frequently eat outside, stay up late, or experience chronic stress.

**Yellow or orange-fleshed watermelon has higher beta-carotene**, which the body converts to vitamin A, supporting eye health, skin, and mucous membranes. It suits those who spend extended periods looking at computer or phone screens.

**Watermelon contains citrulline**, which converts to arginine in the body and aids nitric oxide production, promoting blood vessel dilation and circulation. Research suggests watermelon juice may aid post-exercise recovery and reduce muscle soreness. However, consumption should be moderate and without added sugar.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, watermelon is called a natural "diuretic tablet" due to its sweet taste and cool properties, helping to relieve heat, reduce thirst, and promote urination. However, those with weak digestive systems or cold constitutions should limit intake.

Nutritionists recommend watermelon for:

**Those who perspire heavily or feel thirsty during summer** — providing essential rehydration.

**Regular restaurant diners** — lycopene supplements antioxidant intake.

**Exercise enthusiasts** — consume post-workout for water, carbohydrates, and citrulline. Fresh-pressed watermelon juice without added sugar is preferable.

**Weight-conscious individuals** — watermelon provides only about 30 kilocalories per 100 grams, making it a superior choice to cake, cookies, or sweetened beverages.

**Elderly people with hypertension** — moderate consumption is acceptable with medical or nutritional guidance, though it should not replace medical treatment.

**Kidney patients requiring potassium control** — watermelon has relatively low potassium at approximately 120 milligrams per 100 grams.

However, if a doctor restricts daily fluid intake, watermelon's water content should be counted toward that limit.

The Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT) opened recruitment for the position of Director between July 15-29, 2026. Candidates can submit applications with supporting documents in person or by proxy to the Human Resources Department on the 6th floor at phone 02-1867111 extensions 1217 or 7950, or by email to hrm@sat.or.th by 4:30 p.m. On the evening of July 27, Dr. Meechai Inwood, the Administrative Deputy Director of SAT, submitted his application to compete for the Director position and became the 7th applicant, with the recruitment period extending through July 29. On July 28, reports indicated one additional applicant: Pordrpran Samarnmit, the Deputy Director of Professional Sports and Muay Thai at SAT. There are now eight candidates competing for the Director position: 1. Sirichet Pooltipayanont, Chairman of the Thai Mixed Martial Arts Association; 2. Dr. Suwit Lertthanakulwattana, local politician and community worker in Bang Rak; 3. Thanpawat Techaphuvadolwit, Consultant to the Thai Bodybuilding and Fitness Sports Association; 4. Jen Piyathat, Chairman of Granular Badminton Club and board member of the Thai Badminton Association; 5. Kunakorn Mannteerai, former Member of Parliament and Consultant to the Thai Shooting Sports Association for Military and Police; 6. Police Colonel Chaiporn Oofuavongse, Deputy Director of the Legal Affairs and Litigation Bureau at the Royal Thai Police; 7. Dr. Meechai Inwood, Administrative Deputy Director of SAT; 8. Pordrpran Samarnmit, Deputy Director of Professional Sports and Muay Thai at SAT.