Analysis & Special Columns

“Cambodian Beggars in Thailand” – A Silent Urban Crisis, Transnational Crime, and Policy Dilemma

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1. Overview: Why Are Cambodian Beggars a Persistent Issue in Thailand? The phenomenon of Cambodian beggars in Thailand is not new, but has become more visible in the past decade, especially in major cities, busy intersections, tourist areas, and border towns. The root causes stem from both internal factors in Cambodia (poverty, rural economic disparity, lack of opportunity) and factors within Thailand (legal loopholes, urban wealth gap, demand for cheap labor and easy cash). 2. Syndicate Structure: How the Cycle Works Main targets: Children, women, the disabled, and the elderly from poor Cambodian provinces are recruited, deceived, or sometimes sent by their own families to beg in Thailand. Syndicate operations: Agents (middlemen) arrange the journey—using natural border crossings or bribing officials—and allocate strategic begging spots (major intersections, tourist hotspots). Organization: Beggars often live in groups in makeshift camps outside city centers, under the watch of a syndicate leader who collects a share of daily earnings, sometimes by force or threat. Illegal entry: Most enter via unofficial routes or through smuggling networks, sometimes even with quotas for high-traffic areas. 3. Multidimensional Impacts Urban/social impact: Public begging damages Thailand’s international image, causes discomfort for residents and tourists, and undermines trust in law enforcement. Human rights concerns: Many beggars—especially children and disabled people—are exploited, deprived of education, and subjected to neglect or even abuse. Health and safety: Beggars face poor living conditions, are exposed to health risks, and are vulnerable to other forms of crime or trafficking. Regional/policy tension: The issue strains Thai-Cambodian relations, raising questions on both countries’ commitment to child protection and human rights in international forums. 4. Legal Framework and State Response: Gaps and Challenges Thai law: The Beggar Control Act (2016) prohibits all forms of begging, regardless of nationality, with penalties of arrest and deportation. However, penalties are often

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Analysis & Special Columns

Analysis: “Hun” of the Khmer Rouge—Shadow over Cambodia’s Political History

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Analysis: “Hun” of the Khmer Rouge—Shadow over Cambodia’s Political History In the context of Cambodia and the Khmer Rouge, “Hun” refers most prominently to Hun Sen, the country’s former strongman who ruled for over 38 years (1985–2023) and played a pivotal role in Cambodia’s civil war, the fall of the Khmer Rouge, and the construction of modern Cambodian statehood. Origins and Role in the Khmer Rouge Hun Sen began his career as a Khmer Rouge cadre in the 1970s, rising to a military command post before the Cambodian genocide. Under Pol Pot, the Khmer Rouge were responsible for the deaths of 1.5–2 million Cambodians. Hun Sen later fled to Vietnam, returning with Vietnamese forces in 1979 to help oust the Khmer Rouge and establish the People’s Republic of Kampuchea (PRK). Path to Power and Contemporary Politics After the PRK era, Hun Sen became prime minister in 1985 and maintained control for nearly four decades through the Cambodian People’s Party (CPP), relying on both compromise and forceful elimination of political rivals—including arrests and forced exile of opposition leaders. Throughout the 1990s–2010s, his reputation shifted from “stabilizer” to “modern autocrat,” marked by crackdowns on human rights, media, and interference with electoral processes. Legacy and Controversy Hun Sen is heavily criticized as a “shadow” of the Khmer Rouge past—due to his early affiliations, his hardline governance style, and the dynastic transfer of power (his son Hun Manet succeeded him in 2023). He is also accused of entanglement in national-scale corruption and crime. Still, he is regarded by some as a symbol of Cambodia’s postwar stability, especially compared to the brutal, lawless Khmer Rouge era. Key Observations Hun Sen exemplifies the “political survivor” who navigated dramatic regional changes and maintained power. Despite his break from the Khmer Rouge, Cambodia’s single-party political culture remains deeply

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World News

Cambodia: Mega Fraud Factories—Trafficking, Political Corruption & State Complicity

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Cambodia: Mega Fraud Factories—Trafficking, Political Corruption & State Complicity UNODC and global reports identify Cambodia as hosting mega fraud factories in key regions like Sihanoukville, Poipet, Phnom Penh, Bavet, Koh Kong, Pursat, and Tbong Khmum. An estimated 100,000–350,000 individuals have been trafficked, their passports confiscated, detained, beaten, or electrocuted if fraud targets are unmet. Key political figures are reportedly complicit: Senator Ly Yong Phat (LYP Group, PM adviser), owner of O‑Smach Resort—sanctioned by the U.S. for forced labor and related abuses. Kok An, owner of Anco Brothers and multiple casinos—accused of laundering funds from scam compounds. Huione Group, tied to Hun To (PM’s cousin), operates shadow banking and crypto platforms handling some US$24 billion in recent years. A May 2025 Humanity Research Consultancy report states, “Cambodian politicians profit from online scam centres,” generating US$19 billion—over 60% of GDP. Pig‑butchering scam operations rely heavily on trafficked workers to establish trust with foreign victims before defrauding them via crypto investment schemes. Facilities include repurposed hotels/casinos, satellite internet (Starlink), and crypto shadow‑banking services that elude regulation. In February 2025, Cambodia formed an Anti‑Online‑Fraud Task Force with Thailand, China, the U.S., and UNODC. However, no significant prosecutions of political figures have been made. Human rights experts advocate a rights‑based response: protecting victims, ending prosecution of victims, safe repatriation, and multi‑jurisdictional investigations. Analytical Summary: Cambodia’s online scam infrastructure is supported by political power and state resources. Effective resolution requires international coordination, transparent investigations into elite complicity, and enforcement actions against the powerful benefiting from this illicit industry.

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burger-sandwich
Health Lifestyle

Burger vs. Sandwich: What’s the Difference?

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🍔 Burger vs. Sandwich: What’s the Difference? Many people wonder: Is a burger just a type of sandwich? The answer is both yes and no, depending on how you define each. Let’s explore the similarities and differences between these two beloved meals. 🔹 What is a Sandwich? A sandwich generally consists of two slices of bread with fillings such as meat, cheese, vegetables, or spreads. Sandwiches can be cold or hot, simple or complex, and are often easy to pack and eat on the go. 🔹 What is a Burger? A burger specifically refers to a cooked ground meat patty—most commonly beef—placed inside a sliced hamburger bun. Toppings like lettuce, tomato, cheese, and sauces are added, making it a specific type of sandwich by broader definitions. 🧩 Key Differences Structure: Burgers use soft buns, while sandwiches often use sliced bread, baguettes, or rolls. Main Filling: Burgers usually have a ground meat patty. Sandwiches have varied fillings like ham, turkey, or tuna. Culture: Burgers are strongly linked to American fast food, while sandwiches are a more universal meal. 🌍 Global Variations There are endless regional variations. In Vietnam, you’ll find bánh mì; in France, croque-monsieur; in Thailand, chicken burgers are often spicy and sweet. All are cousins in the sandwich family! 🥪 Final Verdict Technically, all burgers are sandwiches, but not all sandwiches are burgers. It’s all about the form, filling, and cultural twist!

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Environment Lifestyle Society & Culture

Top 10 Travel Destinations in Thailand for 2025

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🌏 Top 10 Travel Destinations in Thailand for 2025 Discover the most popular provinces among local and international travelers in 2025, featuring highlights and must-visit places in each location. 1. Chiang Mai – The Cultural Heart of Northern Thailand A perfect blend of ancient heritage and modern creativity, Chiang Mai attracts travelers of all types. From misty mountains to bustling night markets and hip cafes, it offers endless charm. Doi Inthanon National Park Wat Phra That Doi Suthep Nimmanhaemin Road Mon Jam Royal Park Rajapruek Chiang Mai Night Safari Baan Mae Kampong 2. Phuket – The Ultimate Tropical Island Phuket combines stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, cultural heritage, and luxury resorts. It’s suitable for couples, families, and backpackers alike. Patong Beach Promthep Cape Old Phuket Town Koh Khai Nai Yang Beach Wat Chalong Romanee Street 3. Bangkok – The City of Angels Thailand’s vibrant capital is an energetic hub of temples, street food, riverside malls, and cultural fusion. Ideal for city explorers and foodies. Grand Palace Wat Phra Kaew Wat Pho Yaowarat (Chinatown) Chatuchak Market ICONSIAM Asiatique The Riverfront 4. Krabi – Emerald Seas and Limestone Cliffs Perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Krabi is known for its turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and world-famous island hopping. Railay Beach Thale Waek (Separated Sea) Koh Hong Emerald Pool Klong Thom Hot Springs Tiger Cave Temple Koh Poda 5. Sukhothai – The Birthplace of Thai Civilization This UNESCO World Heritage city offers a glimpse into Thailand’s glorious past with ancient temples and serene surroundings for history buffs. Sukhothai Historical Park Wat Si Chum Wat Mahathat Ramkhamhaeng National Museum Baan Na Ton Chan Loy Krathong Festival (Candlelight Celebration) 6. Chiang Rai – The Northern Art Capital Chiang Rai is known for contemporary art, spiritual architecture, and serene mountain scenery. Great for peaceful retreats

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Health

Safe Weight Loss

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🥗 Safe Weight Loss Transform your body the healthy and sustainable way Safe weight loss means reducing excess fat without harming muscle mass, metabolism, hormones, or mental health. It’s a lifestyle shift — not a quick fix. 🔍 Why “Safe” Matters Crash diets, extreme detoxes, and unapproved weight-loss pills may offer fast results but lead to long-term harm, including rebound weight gain and metabolic damage. 🍽 Nutritional Principles Eat enough — don’t starve: Reduce calories by 10–20% of your TDEE, not too aggressively Balanced macros: 30% protein, 40–50% complex carbs, 20% healthy fats Real food focus: Whole grains, vegetables, lean proteins, minimal processed food 🏃‍♀️ Exercise for Fat Loss Cardio: At least 150 minutes per week (walking, cycling, etc.) Strength Training: 2–3 sessions/week to preserve muscle and boost metabolism NEAT: Non-exercise activity like cleaning or taking stairs helps burn extra calories 🧠 Behavior and Mindset Sleep 7–9 hours per night to regulate hunger hormones Reduce stress through mindfulness, hobbies, or movement Practice mindful eating and body awareness ❌ Common Myths Skipping dinner = not a guarantee of faster weight loss Detox drinks = often lack nutrients and do more harm Exercising hard while overeating = won’t reduce weight 🗓 Long-Term Plan Set realistic goals: 1–2 kg per month Create a meal and workout schedule Track progress monthly and adjust if needed 📌 Conclusion Safe weight loss isn’t about pain — it’s about creating a better lifestyle and health foundation “The goal isn’t just to be thinner, but to live better.”

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Technology

AI กับผลกระทบต่อโลกอนาคต

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AI and Its Impact on the Future World By Siam Times Research Team Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming the modern world. From intelligent chatbots to autonomous vehicles, AI is revolutionizing the way we think, work, and live. While it brings enormous benefits, it also poses significant challenges that we must address proactively. Positive Impacts of AI Improved Efficiency and Accuracy For example, AI systems can analyze CT scans and detect brain abnormalities faster and more accurately than human doctors. Boosting the Digital Economy Retail businesses are leveraging AI to predict customer behavior and provide personalized marketing, driving significant revenue growth. Solving Global Problems AI helps monitor climate change via satellite data and models disaster patterns to improve early warning systems. Negative Impacts of AI Job Displacement Jobs involving repetitive tasks—such as data entry, driving, or banking services—are increasingly being automated. Privacy and Security Risks The large-scale data required to train AI systems can be misused if not governed properly, raising ethical concerns. Technological Inequality Developed countries and tech giants gain greater advantages, potentially widening the gap between the “AI haves” and “have-nots.” The Ethics of AI One central question remains: “How far should AI be allowed to decide for us?” Biased training data can lead to discriminatory outcomes in areas like recruitment or financial lending. Transparency and accountability are crucial. Conclusion and Future Outlook AI is not the enemy—it is a powerful tool. Humans must focus on skills that AI cannot yet replicate, such as creativity, contextual understanding, and ethics. Moreover, we need global cooperation to set rules that ensure safe AI development. “The future of AI reflects the decisions we make today.”

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Regional News Top Stories

เจ้าหน้าที่ EOD ทำลายวัตถุต้องสงสัยหน้าสนามบินภูเก็ต

Siam Times 0

เจ้าหน้าที่ EOD ทำลายวัตถุต้องสงสัยหน้าสนามบินภูเก็ต วันที่ 25 มิถุนายน 2568 เจ้าหน้าที่เก็บกู้วัตถุระเบิด (EOD) เข้าทำลายวัตถุต้องสงสัยที่ซุกซ่อนอยู่ในรถจักรยานยนต์ บริเวณลานจอดรถของท่าอากาศยานภูเก็ต ตำบลสาคู อำเภอถลาง จังหวัดภูเก็ต ห่างจากอาคารผู้โดยสารราว 200 เมตร เพื่อความปลอดภัยของประชาชนและผู้โดยสาร จากการประสานงานของตำรวจภูธรจังหวัดภูเก็ตเมื่อเวลา 15.40 น. หลังจับผู้ต้องสงสัยและได้รับข้อมูลจากการข่าวว่าท่าอากาศยานภูเก็ตอาจตกเป็นเป้าหมายของผู้ไม่หวังดี จึงได้ส่งทีม EOD และสุนัข K9 เข้าตรวจสอบ พร้อมปิดกั้นพื้นที่โดยรอบ เจ้าหน้าที่พยายามตัดวงจรวัตถุต้องสงสัยในเบื้องต้น แต่เนื่องจากไม่แน่ใจว่ามีวงจรแฝงเพิ่มเติมหรือไม่ จึงตัดสินใจใช้แรงดันน้ำยิงทำลายเพื่อความปลอดภัยสูงสุด ขณะนี้ท่าอากาศยานยังเปิดให้บริการตามปกติ แต่อาจมีความไม่สะดวกด้านจราจร ผู้โดยสารควรเผื่อเวลาในการเดินทาง พล.ต.ต.สินเลิศ สุขุม ผู้บังคับการตำรวจภูธรจังหวัดภูเก็ต เปิดเผยว่า ขณะนี้ยังไม่สามารถยืนยันได้ว่าวัตถุดังกล่าวเป็นระเบิดหรือไม่ และหากเป็นจริงคาดว่าจะเกิดความเสียหายรุนแรงกว่านี้ โดยยังอยู่ระหว่างการส่งวัตถุดังกล่าวไปตรวจสอบทางนิติวิทยาศาสตร์ ทั้งนี้ มีการตั้งข้อสังเกตว่ารถจักรยานยนต์คันดังกล่าวอาจเกี่ยวข้องกับผู้ต้องหาที่ถูกจับในพื้นที่จังหวัดพังงา แต่ยังต้องตรวจสอบเส้นทางและความเชื่อมโยงอีกครั้ง โดยเบื้องต้นได้รับแจ้งจากพลเมืองดี และไม่มีข้อมูลว่าเกี่ยวข้องกับเหตุในต่างประเทศแต่อย่างใด เมื่อ EOD เข้าเก็บกู้วัตถุด้วยการยิงแรงดันน้ำ ก็เกิดเสียงดังขึ้นทั้งจากตัววัตถุและอุปกรณ์ยิง จากนั้นเจ้าหน้าที่พิสูจน์หลักฐานได้เข้าพื้นที่เพื่อเก็บวัตถุและส่งตรวจอย่างละเอียดอีกครั้ง การบินยังคงให้บริการตามปกติ แต่แนะนำให้เผื่อเวลาเดินทางเข้าสนามบิน เนื่องจากมีการควบคุมพื้นที่บางส่วน

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Education Society & Culture

The Origins of Thailand: A Comprehensive Historical Journey from Prehistory to the Modern State

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The Origins of Thailand: A Comprehensive Historical Journey from Prehistory to the Modern State 1. Pre-Thai Civilizations: Crossroads of Ancient Cultures The land that is present-day Thailand has been inhabited for over 40,000 years, with evidence found in sites like the Spirit Cave and Ban Chiang. These archaeological discoveries reveal advanced Neolithic and Bronze Age societies, skilled in agriculture, textile production, pottery, and early metallurgy. Ban Chiang in Udon Thani is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, representing a key center of early metallurgy and societal complexity that influenced all of mainland Southeast Asia. 2. Early States and External Influences Dvaravati (6th–11th centuries CE): Centered in Nakhon Pathom–Suphanburi, reflecting Theravada Buddhism and South Indian artistic influences. Srivijaya (7th–13th centuries): A maritime power based in the South, connecting Indian Ocean and Chinese trade routes, and shaping the Buddhist landscape. Funan–Chenla–Khmer Empires: Khmer culture and statecraft extended deep into present-day Northeast and Central Thailand, leaving behind monumental architecture and inscriptions. 3. Migration and the Roots of the Thai People The Tai-Kadai peoples, ancestors of modern Thais, began migrating from Southern China into the Mekong basin and northern Thailand between the 8th and 13th centuries. They assimilated with indigenous groups, blending languages, religious practices, and traditions, giving rise to distinct regional identities. Linguistic, artistic, and legendary evidence across the North and Northeast demonstrates this fusion of Tai, Chinese, Khmer, Mon, and Burmese influences. 4. The Sukhothai Kingdom: Dawn of the Thai State Founded in 1238 CE by King Sri Indraditya, Sukhothai marked the rise of the first truly independent Thai kingdom. Under King Ramkhamhaeng the Great, the Thai script was invented, Theravada Buddhism flourished, and a paternalistic style of governance was established. Sukhothai’s stone inscriptions, especially the Ramkhamhaeng Inscription, provide invaluable records of language, law, and daily life. The kingdom also developed tributary relationships

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Sports

กัมพูชายืนยันปัญหาชายแดนไม่กระทบ พร้อมส่งนักกีฬาร่วมซีเกมส์ไทย 2025

Siam Times 0

Cambodia Confirms Border Tensions Won’t Affect Participation in SEA Games 2025 in Thailand On June 24, 2025, Mr. Vath Chamroeun, Secretary-General of the National Olympic Committee of Cambodia (NOCC), confirmed that rising tensions along the Thai-Cambodian border will not affect Cambodia’s participation in the 33rd SEA Games, set to be hosted by Thailand from December 9–20, 2025. He stated that “sports are not linked to politics” and emphasized that Thailand’s Olympic Committee, as the host, has assured a warm welcome to Cambodian athletes, with preparations continuing as planned. Mr. Chamroeun also referred to Cambodia’s successful hosting of the 32nd SEA Games in 2023, which received praise from Thai officials. He expressed hope that the border situation would soon improve. When asked about the escalating border tension, he responded, “Even during wartime or conflicts, athletes are not excluded from competition,” citing examples such as Syria, Iraq, and Afghanistan. “This is the spirit of the Olympics — above war or peace,” he added.

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