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While the academic year is only beginning in Thai schools, international schools are already reaching the end of theirs. Graduation season marks an important milestone for senior students, many of whom are saying goodbye not only to their school but also to Phuket as they prepare to continue their education in the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, Singapore, Hong Kong, and other countries. One of the most anticipated events of the school year has already taken pla

The Royal Thai Police (RTP) has launched the third phase of its campaign targeting foreign nominee networks in the Andaman provinces of Phuket, Krabi, and Phang Nga, stepping up efforts to combat illegal business operations and concealed foreign ownership. The latest operation was officially launched at Mueang Phuket Police Station and brings together the Royal Thai Police, Immigration Bureau, Department of Lands, and several other government agencies in a coordinated enforce

Fuel prices in Phuket have continued to decline, with diesel falling below 38 baht per litre for the first time in more than three months. According to the Phuket office of Thailand’s Ministry of Energy, the latest price adjustment took effect on June 19 after major fuel retailers revised rates in response to more stable global oil prices. Gasohol prices also decreased. Gasohol 91 is now selling for less than 39 baht per litre, while Gasohol 95 has dropped below the 40-baht m

Senior representatives of Thailand’s Ministry of Interior have pledged a comprehensive “system reset” for Phuket, promising broad reforms rather than isolated solutions to the province’s most pressing problems. The announcement was made during a two-day visit by Polapi Suwannachawi and Warasit Liangprasert, the second and fourth deputy ministers serving under Interior Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul. According to officials, the initiative is intended to

Phuket authorities have confirmed that construction of the island’s second waste incinerator is moving forward, with the new facility expected to enter service in mid-2027 to help address the province’s growing waste disposal needs. Phuket City Mayor Supachok La-ongpetch, together with municipal executives and representatives from relevant agencies, recently visited the Integrated Waste Management Center to inspect construction progress and review the installation of imported

Thailand's Cabinet approved a major leadership reshuffle on June 16, reassigning Phuket Governor Nirut Phongsitthithavorn to the position of Deputy Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Interior. Taking over as Phuket's new governor is Chotinrin Kerdsom, who previously served as Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior. The appointment comes amid growing tensions within the Interior Ministry's administration in Phuket. Just one day earlier, on June 15, the mini

The three-day X Planet Fruit Road 2026 festival attracted large crowds to Sri Sunthorn in Thalang district from June 12 to 14, continuing the success of last year’s popular countryside event. Held near the rubber plantations at the foothills of Khao Phra Thaeo, the festival once again showcased local culture, food, and community traditions. Visitors enjoyed a wide selection of food stalls, traditional fairground games, friendly competitions, and nightly live music performance

Phuket joined the global celebration of World Blood Donor Day on June 14 with a series of special events aimed at recognizing blood donors and promoting voluntary blood donation across the island. Commemorative donation drives were organized at the Phuket Regional Blood Centre (Phuket RBC) and at Limelight Phuket shopping mall, while an annual awards ceremony honoring outstanding donors and organizations supporting blood donation took place at The Pago Design Hotel. Although

Phuket International Airport has officially launched its new Automatic Border Control (ABC) system, introducing biometric passport screening technology to streamline immigration procedures for international travelers. The system became operational on June 13, 2026, allowing eligible passengers with electronic passports (E-Passports) to complete passport checks самостоятельно through automated gates. The initiative is aimed at reducing waiting times, improving passenger flow,

Authorities have publicly identified a number of beach clubs, restaurants, and other establishments currently under investigation as part of an inquiry into the alleged use of public land at Bang Tao Beach in Phuket. The probe is being conducted by the Internal Security Operations Command (ISOC). According to Rear Admiral Praphan Srisuwipa, Deputy Director of ISOC Phuket, the investigation covers 34 properties, including 16 commercial businesses and 18 residential structures.

Airlines from around the world are continuing to expand their interest in Thailand despite ongoing geopolitical uncertainty and rising fuel costs, with several new routes to Phuket proposed for the 2026–2027 winter season. The plans were discussed during the 158th IATA Slot Conference, held in Bangkok from June 9 to 11. The event was hosted by Thailand’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAAT), which coordinates flight slots for the country's major international airports, including B

Three accommodation businesses in Phuket have become the first targets of a new enforcement campaign launched by Thailand’s Department of Provincial Administration (DOPA) to combat illegal business operations, corruption, and activities linked to influential figures. The inspections took place on June 10 and were carried out by a special DOPA task force from Bangkok under the direction of department chief Naruchai Khonsasil. Information about the operation was released by bot

Thailand Privilege Card Co., Ltd. (TPC), the operator of Thailand’s premium long-term residency program under the supervision of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), has reaffirmed its commitment to strict member screening procedures by working closely with five government security agencies. The company said the enhanced verification process is designed to ensure a high-quality membership base, strengthen national security, and support Thailand’s reputation as one of the

Thailand is moving forward with plans to launch a seaplane service between Phuket and Krabi by the end of 2026, aiming to improve travel links across the Andaman region and attract more high-spending visitors. According to Deputy Government Spokesperson Lalida Phiriswattana, the initiative forms part of a broader strategy led by Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul to strengthen transportation networks and support Thailand’s ambition of becoming a r

Phuket reinforced its reputation as an inclusive international destination with the opening of the Phuket Pride Festival 2026 on June 7. The celebration began with a vibrant parade through Patong, bringing together residents, tourists, and members of the LGBTQIAN+ community in support of equality, diversity, and human rights. The procession was led by Acting Phuket Provincial Chief Administration Officer Naphat Em-on, Ministry of Social Development and Human Security Advisor

Thailand’s Immigration Bureau has identified fraudulent student visas as one of the primary targets of its new enforcement campaign, “3 No’s: No Entry, No Stay, No Escape.” The focus became clear following an English-language publication released by Thailand’s Government Public Relations Department (PRD Thailand) on June 6. The report summarized the Immigration Bureau’s performance during the first five months of 2026 and highlighted several key priorities aimed at strengthen

Phuket is hosting a week of Pride celebrations as the Phuket Pride Festival 2026 takes place in Patong from June 1 to June 7, bringing together residents and visitors in support of equality, diversity, and social inclusion. Organized under the theme “From Visibility to Equality,” the event aims to strengthen Thailand’s reputation as an inclusive destination while promoting tourism and encouraging broader acceptance of diverse communities. Deputy Government Spokesperson Ployta

Phuket United FC, a newly formed football club built largely around players under the age of 21, has completed its debut campaign in the Thai Semi-Pro League. Due to the small number of teams competing in the Southern Division, the club played a total of six matches during the season — three at home and three away. The team finished fifth in the standings, collecting five points from one victory, two draws, and three defeats. While the final position may seem modest, the club

Phuket marked the 48th birthday of Her Majesty Queen Suthida on June 3 with a series of commemorative activities, including the release of young sharks and sea turtles into the Andaman Sea as part of a marine conservation initiative. One of the province’s main volunteer events took place at a Royal Thai Navy base at Cape Panwa, adjacent to facilities operated by the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources (DMCR). The center is responsible for breeding and raising marine sp

A provincial fact-finding committee has begun an on-site investigation into allegations that sections of public beachfront land at Bang Tao Beach have been occupied by private businesses. The inspection took place on June 2 in Thalang District and was led by Rear Admiral Praphan Srisuwipa, Deputy Director of the Internal Security Operations Command (ISOC) in Phuket, together with Naphat Aemon, Inspector General of the Department of Provincial Administration and Acting Phuket