Wat Phra Kaew Welcomes New Jade Buddha Replica

Wat Phra Kaew in Chiang Rai enshrines a jade Buddha replica created in 1990 to honor Queen Sirikit's 90th birthday and commemorate the site where the Emerald Buddha was originally discovered. The Canadian jade image, formally consecrated by

11 Jul Khaosod

The "Phra Yok Chiang Rai" or "Phra Phuttharatanapkorn," officially named "Phra Phuttharatanapkorn Navuttiwassanusoranamongkol," is enshrined as the principal Buddha image in the Jade Buddha Hall at Wat Phra Kaew, a royal temple in Chiang Rai province. This ancient Lanna art temple was originally called Wat Pa Yia (Bamboo Forest), the site where the Emerald Buddha was discovered before being brought to Wat Phra Si Rattana Sasadaram in Bangkok. Chiang Rai residents have called it Wat Phra Kaew ever since.

Historical records state that around 1897, during the reign of King Mengrai over Chiang Mai, lightning struck an abandoned chedi. Inside, workers found a Buddha image covered in gold leaf. When the covering was removed, they discovered a green Buddha image carved from jade—the Emerald Buddha. The sacred image was subsequently moved to various cities: Lampang, Chiang Mai, Luang Prabang, Vientiane, Thonburi, and finally to Wat Phra Si Rattana Sasadaram in Bangkok in 1778, where it remains to this day.

In 1990, to commemorate Queen Sirikit's 90th birthday on October 21 and to honor the Emerald Buddha's discovery at this location, a replica titled "Phra Yok Chiang Rai" was created. This new image was crafted to inspire reverence and to pay homage to Queen Sirikit, who brought progress and development to Chiang Rai.

The Phra Yok Chiang Rai is a Buddha image in meditation pose with dimensions closely resembling the Emerald Buddha, measuring 47.9 centimeters wide and 65.9 centimeters tall in Chiangsen artistic style. The image was carved from the finest Canadian jade, with ornaments and base made from precious gems and gold. The pedestal base, approximately one cubit high, was carved from Chiangsen lotus-style jade stone. Master sculptor Kanok Wiswakun created the prototype, which was then carved by skilled craftsmen at the Walinna Nango Factory in China. The dedication ceremony was held at Guangji Temple in Beijing, where Queen Sirikit bestowed the formal name "Phra Phuttharatanapkorn Navuttiwassanusoranamongkol," meaning "Buddha Lord of Jeweled Treasures, Memorial to the 90th Birthday," with the common name "Phra Yok Chiang Rai."

King Bhumibol Adulyadej graciously authorized the Grand Buddha Consecration ceremony at Wat Phra Si Rattana Sasadaram in the Grand Palace on September 20, 1991. His Majesty anointed the image and lit candles, assisted by Supreme Patriarch Somdet Phra Sangharaj Krom Luang Wachirayan Warorot. The image was then transported to Wat Phra Kaew and enshrined on October 19, 1991, with grand celebrations.

Although the Phra Yok Chiang Rai is a modern creation, it holds sacred significance and deep devotion among Chiang Rai residents as a representative of the Emerald Buddha and as a tribute to Queen Sirikit, the inspiration of all Chiang Rai people. Within the temple's ordination hall, another sacred Buddha image is enshrined: the Phra Chao Lanthong, one of Thailand's most beautiful and majestic Buddha images. The temple also contains an ancient chedi registered by the Department of Fine Arts as a national historical monument in 1935, along with architectural structures reflecting traditional Lanna design.

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Community

Sangha Administration Training Program Launched For 220 Buddhist Monks

A training program for 220 Buddhist monks in monastic administration and management skills concluded in Nakhon Pathom Province on July 3, emphasizing the importance of transparent governance, strict adherence to Buddhist law, and spiritual

11 Jul Khaosod

On Monday, June 29, 2025, Somdet Phra Mahaviravorngsa (Suchin Akkhachino), a Mahatherasmakom Committee member and assistant abbot of Wat Rajbophit Sathit Maha Simaram, represented the committee as chairperson at the opening of the 52nd "Knowledge Offering Project for Sangha Administrators" targeting abbots, deputy abbots, and assistant abbots. The program, organized by the Institute of Sangha Administration, Office of Buddhism, and the Mahatherasmakom Secretariat, trained 220 Buddhist monks to enhance their monastic management skills. The ceremony was held at the Buddhamontol Conference Hall under royal patronage.

Udom Porn Ekyiam, Director of the Office of Buddhism, submitted a progress report with senior officials and staff in attendance.

Somdet Phra Mahaviravorngsa delivered a sermon emphasizing that abbots, deputy abbots, and assistant abbots serve as vital mechanisms in their temples, responsible for preserving Buddhist resources and the livelihood of monks and novices. He stressed that being an abbot must be genuine, not merely nominal. The role is defined by laws and Mahatherasmakom regulations specifying duties and powers. Therefore, holding a position demands fulfilling corresponding responsibilities according to legal provisions. Deputy abbots must accept responsibilities delegated by the abbot while assisting in temple affairs including dissemination of teachings, governance, and public welfare. Assistant abbots must serve diligently. All three positions working in the same temple must operate with unity, understanding their duties and responsibilities. Experienced monks should support younger leadership without obstructing the temple's development, recognizing what is and isn't appropriate.

On Friday, July 3, 2025, Somdet Phra Mahachirmuneevongsa (Boonrueng Punnyochoto), a Mahatherasmakom Committee member and abbot of Wat Phra Sri Maha Dhat, presided over the closing ceremony and certificate presentation at the Buddhamontol Conference Hall in Nakhon Pathom Province.

Somdet Phra Mahachirmuneevongsa advised that the roles of abbots, deputy abbots, and assistant abbots today face challenges involving laws, sangha regulations, and Mahatherasmakom rules. As temple administrators and community leaders, he offered three guiding principles: First, establish dharma and vinaya as the foundation—temple management and governance of monks must strictly adhere to Buddhist law and sangha regulations using fairness and compassion. Second, ensure transparency in Buddhist assets—property and benefit management must be handled carefully, following proper procedures and accounting practices to prevent disputes and accusations that cause future damage. Third, serve as the spiritual center of the community—current sangha administrators must be good mentors, developing temples as peaceful havens and learning centers, serving as true spiritual refuges for Buddhists. Following these guidelines creates beauty, unity, and harmony, earning respect within the sangha and society.

Somdet Phra Mahachirmuneevongsa further urged steadfast commitment to virtue and good conduct, compliance with Mahatherasmakom and sangha regulations with consistency and fairness, without discrimination, maintaining order and propriety.

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Community

Sala Chalerm Krung Palace Theater Marks 93 Years

Thailand's oldest royal theater celebrates its 93rd anniversary with a ceremony featuring khon dance performances and scholarships for artists and senior performers on July 2, 2025.

11 Jul Khaosod

Sala Chalerm Krung Palace Theater and the Sala Chalerm Krung Foundation are celebrating their 93rd and 21st anniversaries with a religious ceremony on Thursday, July 2, 2025, led by Air Vice Marshal Supichai Suntharabura, Deputy Secretary to the Palace.

The auspicious day begins with a monastic ceremony at 8:00 a.m. inside Sala Chalerm Krung Palace Theater, followed by a royal salutation ceremony at 9:09 a.m. at the theater's entrance. A traditional dance performance titled "Goddesses Bestowing Blessings" will be presented by Sala Chalerm Krung's khon performers, invoking seven goddesses—Uma, Lakshmi, Surasvatee, Suchadha, Dhani, Ganga, and Pohsop—to bestow victory and prosperity.

At 9:45 a.m., scholarships from the Sala Chalerm Krung Foundation's Thai Dance and Music Arts Fund will be distributed. One scholarship will be awarded to Watchramone Aranyanak, a Thai music expert specializing in string instruments at the Graduate Institute of Fine Arts. Additionally, four medical assistance scholarships will be given to senior performers facing health challenges, represented by Namngern Bunhak, Kanda Namayyampaen, Chumsakdi Sutheetharm, and Komkrit Yuttiyong.

Sala Chalerm Krung is Thailand's first royal theater, established in 1931 with royal funds exceeding 9 million baht from King Rama VII to commemorate Bangkok's 150th anniversary. It was the country's first cinema for sound film projection and was the most modern theater in Asia at the time, featuring air conditioning. The building was designed by architect Mom Chao Somjai Kridakorn, a graduate of prestigious French institutions. The theater officially opened on Sunday, July 2, 1933.

The theater has served as the center of Thai cinema, home to producers, directors, actors, and production crews, as well as an institution training personnel in film, khon dance, drama, and Thai classical dance. In 2024, on the occasion of the theater's 92nd anniversary, King Maha Chakri Maharaj approved a comprehensive renovation and landscaping project completed on May 15, 2025. The restored theater now stands as a testament to Thailand's first royal theater, serving as a premier institution for cultural and artistic performances and an important national monument that has operated for 93 years.

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Community

New BL Series Stars In And Ongsa With Instant Chemistry

Actors In Chakrassindhung and Ongsa Teetuch star opposite each other for the first time in the BL period drama "The Edge of Horizon," playing a loyal servant and a young nobleman bound by childhood friendship and forbidden love in 1932.

11 Jul Khaosod

In and Ongsa meet for the first time in the intense period BL series "Arun Rung: The Edge of Horizon" on Channel One 31. The two actors gave an interview today about taking on their character roles and shared their views on cross-class love and sexual diversity.

What role does each actor play in "Arun Rung"? In: "I play Phop Theerachai, the loyal servant close to Prince Thinkorn. He's a faithful person who follows his master always. They're close friends who grew up together." Ongsa: "I play Prince Thinkorn, the youngest in the family. He's a boy who has lived within strict constraints, is empathetic, and deeply true to his own feelings. This character faces considerable expectations and pressure from the family, so Phop might be one of the few things in his life that makes him feel happy and smile freely."

Is Phop like a safe space for both of you in the palace? In: "Actually, it's a safe space for both of us, since we grew up together. Normally servants should fear their masters, but Prince Thinkorn isn't like that. He's treated Phop well all along—like a friend." Ongsa: "I believe it's truly a safe space for both of them. I think viewers will feel the same way too."

What challenges did you face approaching your roles? In: "Playing Phop has two parts. As a young servant, we had workshops and discussed techniques with director Kunlathep. There's a numbering system 1-10 that makes the servant's expressions and mannerisms come out naturally, because servants must be humble. As adult Colonel Phop, I had to level up since he's a soldier. I studied how military personnel were in that era. I was lucky to have seniors in the military to consult about etiquette, bowing authentically, hand positioning, and foot placement—all crucial for building the character. We also studied history. Since it's a period piece set in 1932, I needed to understand the social context of that era—what was a big deal, what was appropriate. This helps us understand why certain details in scenes were momentous back then, perhaps more intense than today, which deepens our investment in the character." Ongsa: "I divided it into two parts as well: the character's inner emotions and the performance itself. Since the story and setting are far from me personally, I did homework on what Thinkorn carries—family responsibilities and his love for Phop, which had to be significant because what he faces needs to be grander than what I face. For the performance aspect, after reading the character, I felt Thinkorn is kind to everything in this world. I want people to love this character the way I do. As for his class status, I had to change my speech from my natural quick pace to slower and more mindful. The tone is completely different."

About chemistry: this is your first time meeting. How did you break down barriers, especially with intimate scenes? Ongsa: "Honestly, I didn't feel I had to break down much, since I'm not good at approaching people—I rely on the other person's initiative. But In came with such a wonderful older-brother vibe, walking close, hugging me, patting my back, giving encouragement throughout the workshop. It made me feel relaxed and everything flowed naturally." In: "When we first met at the audition, I tried to break down walls as much as possible so you wouldn't feel tense, hoping magic moments would happen. When I found out you got the Prince Thinkorn role, we continued in the workshop, and the wall was already low from the start. Everything became easy—no effort needed." Ongsa: "Which directly contributed to the naturalness in the series."

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National

Japan Aids Thailand Fighting Cross-Border Heavy Metal Pollution

Japan is helping Thailand combat heavy metal pollution affecting three countries by establishing a monitoring network across Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos, with arsenic removal systems for community water supplies starting in northern provinc

11 Jul Khaosod

Japan is supporting Thailand in addressing cross-border heavy metal contamination by developing a monitoring network spanning Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos to safeguard water quality. The initiative includes installing arsenic removal systems for community water supplies to protect public health.

On July 11, 2025, Natural Resources and Environment Minister Suchat Chomklin directed the Pollution Control Department (PCD) to advance cooperation with the Japanese government and international organizations to expedite solutions for water pollution and transboundary heavy metal contamination. The collaborative effort seeks to coordinate Thailand, Myanmar, and the Lao People's Democratic Republic in surveillance, monitoring, and systematic water quality management to reduce immediate public health impacts while establishing foundations for long-term joint management.

Dr. Surin Vorakitthummrung, PCD Director, revealed that on July 10, the UN Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) in Thailand, the Japanese Embassy in Thailand, and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) met with the PCD to establish cooperation frameworks for addressing transboundary water pollution. The initiative prioritizes protecting water sources in Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, and the Mekong River Basin to ensure safe public water access, while promoting a water quality monitoring network across Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos.

Initial collaborative efforts will see the PCD and UNIDO jointly develop an integrated arsenic management plan, provide water quality test kits with training for agencies and communities to strengthen community-based monitoring systems, and install arsenic filtration systems for village water supplies. Field missions to Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai are scheduled for July 16-17, 2025, to consult with provincial governors and relevant agencies for concrete implementation.

Dr. Surin added that the PCD is also collaborating with JICA on a Third Country Training Program (TCTP) proposal to enhance the capacity of officials from Myanmar, Thailand, and Laos in monitoring water quality and sediment in transboundary rivers, leading to a robust and sustainable expert network and joint surveillance system across the Mekong subregion. Additionally, the PCD and UNIDO are exploring project development approaches to secure support from the Global Environment Facility (GEF-9) to promote chemical-free Thai silk production following circular economy and clean production principles, elevating Thai silk manufacturing sustainability, reducing hazardous chemical use, and improving resource efficiency throughout the production chain in line with national sustainable development goals.

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Police

Motorcyclist Dies After High-Speed Crash

A motorcyclist died after losing control at high speed near a U-turn in Sariphi District, Chiang Mai on July 11. He was found unconscious at the crash scene and could not be revived despite CPR attempts.

11 Jul Khaosod

A young motorcyclist lost control and crashed at a U-turn point, becoming unconscious before later dying. He is believed to have been traveling at high speed. July 11, 2026 – The coordination center of the Ruam Katanyu Foundation in Chiang Mai, along with the Thevarat Thongdam Foundation, responded to reports of a motorcycle accident. The crash occurred near the U-turn point at the Klong Sai junction in Sariphi District, Chiang Mai. At the scene, a brown Honda PCX motorcycle was found overturned in severe condition, with debris scattered across the surrounding area. Preliminary assessment indicates the rider was likely traveling at high speed before losing control and crashing violently. One male victim was found nearby, unconscious and unresponsive, with multiple severe injuries. Responders immediately performed CPR at the scene before coordinating with Sariphi Hospital's ambulance service to transport the victim to the hospital. Unfortunately, the victim's critical injuries proved fatal, and he died at the hospital. His remains were subsequently handed over to his family for traditional funeral rites.

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National

Royal Thai Dress Exhibition Opens Under Princess Patronage

The exhibition “La Mode en Majesté – Royal Thai Dress: From Tradition to Modernity,” is being held under the patronage of Her Royal Highness Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana Rajakanya at the M...

11 Jul Thailand.go.th Issues

The exhibition “La Mode en Majesté – Royal Thai Dress: From Tradition to Modernity,” is being held under the patronage of Her Royal Highness Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana Rajakanya at the M...

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Regional

Deputy Minister Demands Crackdown On Illegal Phuket Businesses

Deputy Interior Minister Polapee Suwunchwee has renewed calls for stricter enforcement against illegal operations in Phuket, including unlicensed hotels, fake land titles, and unregistered cannabis shops.

11 Jul The Phuket News

PHUKET: Deputy Interior Minister Polapee Suwunchwee has again called for tougher action against illegal land titles, nominee businesses, unlicensed hotels, cannabis shops and other illegal activities in Phuket, repeating many of the directives issued during previous visits and meetings.

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Weather

High Tides Expected in 6 Central Provinces and Bangkok

High tides are expected to cause riverbank and canal overflows in six central provinces and Bangkok between July 13-19, with peak water levels occurring during evening hours that may flood low-lying areas outside existing barriers.

11 Jul Khaosod

On July 11, 2025, Theeraphap Kachamat, director-general of the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM), announced that the agency is monitoring water level data from the Meteorological Department and Royal Thai Navy regarding conditions along the Chao Phraya River near Pom Phra Chulachomklao and surrounding areas between July 13-19, 2025.

High sea levels are expected during the evenings of July 13-19, between 6:00 PM and 10:00 PM, which may cause water to overflow riverbanks and canals, potentially flooding low-lying areas and communities outside flood barriers. The DDPM has identified watch zones in six central provinces and Bangkok:

Pathum Thani (Mueang Pathum Thani and Samkhok districts) Nonthaburi (Mueang Nonthaburi, Pak Kret, and Bang Kruai districts) Nakhon Pathom (Bang Len, Nakhon Chai Si, and Sam Phran districts) Samut Sakhon (all districts) Samut Songkhram (all districts) Samut Prakan (Mueang Samut Prakan, Phra Samut Chedi, Phra Pradaeng, and Bang Bo districts)

The DDPM's central command has coordinated with all six provinces and Bangkok to monitor the situation and inform residents of high tide timing. Authorities are alerting private sector businesses operating along waterways—including construction contractors, floating restaurants, and riverside residents—to remain vigilant. The public can receive alerts through the THAI DISASTER ALERT app and report emergencies via the DDPM Line account (@1784DDPM) or the 24-hour emergency hotline 1784.

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Police

Florida Man Survives Crocodile Attack Using Bare Hands

A 71-year-old Florida man survived a crocodile attack by driving his thumb into the reptile's eye and stabbing it repeatedly with his fishing rod after it dragged him into a canal behind his home in late June.

11 Jul Khaosod

A dramatic struggle unfolded in Florida when a 71-year-old man went fishing and found himself battling a massive crocodile. James Grayson McMicken was casting his line in a canal behind his home in late June when the hidden reptile suddenly lunged from the water and clamped down hard on his right leg, dragging him toward the depths with tremendous force.

Despite the life-threatening situation, McMicken kept his wits about him. Years earlier, he had legally hunted crocodiles and knew their eyes were a critical vulnerability. He immediately drove his thumb into one eye while repeatedly stabbing the other with his fishing rod. The crocodile, unable to tolerate the pain, finally released him and swam away.

"I just thought I couldn't die," McMicken recalled. "I'd always heard that if you have no other choice, target the crocodile's eyes. I drove my thumb into one eye and kept stabbing the other with my rod. It felt like time was standing still, but eventually it let me go."

Weakened from the attack, McMicken could not walk on his own and called his faithful dog to help support him until he reached home. His wife immediately rushed him to the hospital, where doctors found multiple deep puncture wounds on his right leg requiring extensive stitching. Fortunately, no vital organs were damaged.

Hospital staff were so impressed by his courage that many nurses visited to ask about the ordeal and commend his bravery. Kimberly Andrews, a crocodile expert from the University of Georgia, confirmed that McMicken's actions were the correct survival technique. When dragged by a crocodile, she explained, attack sensitive areas like the eyes, upper head, or sides of the jaw to force the reptile to loosen its grip.

Authorities are still searching for the crocodile. McMicken, now recovering and using a cane, says he will be more cautious around water in the future—but he won't stop fishing. He concluded defiantly: "No crocodile is getting away from me."

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National

Democrat Leader Backs Shinawatra Family's ASEAN Diplomacy

Democrat leader Nattapong Ruangpanyawut backs the Shinawatra family's ASEAN diplomacy efforts while pressing the Prime Minister to address a shrimp disease crisis affecting Thai farmers more decisively.

11 Jul Khaosod

At Parliament on July 11, 2025, Nattapong Ruangpanyawut, a Democrat Party list MP and party leader, addressed the visits by three former prime ministers from the Shinawatra family—Thaksin Shinawatra, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, and Yingluck Shinawatra—to meet with ASEAN leaders, questioning whether these trips carry political implications.

Nattapong stated that the Prime Minister should answer questions about this matter most directly. He noted that while communications have focused on the shrimp export problem with Malaysia, the government's response has been slow. Since shadow cabinet meetings, he warned that delays in resolving this issue would harm shrimp farmers, as infected ponds die entirely within one to two weeks.

When pressed on the political significance of the Shinawatra family's diplomatic activities, Nattapong said the public should judge whether there are political motives. He emphasized that any past or current politician conducting negotiations to benefit the country is doing something good. However, he stressed that the incumbent Prime Minister should act more actively and decisively while in office.

Nattapong also called for the Prime Minister to fulfill parliamentary responsibilities by answering urgent questions in live parliamentary sessions held on Thursdays, which he described as a basic duty of the office.

Regarding whether the Shinawatra family's movements threaten the government, Nattapong said it depends on whether citizens benefit from the activities. If they do, there should be no downsides. As the opposition, the focus should remain on whether the government, particularly the Prime Minister, acts quickly enough to solve problems for the people.

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