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Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail Pattaya's vibrant nightlife is about to take an unexpected pause. To honor Makha Bucha Day, a significant Buddhist holiday, officials have imposed a strict alcohol ban. From 12:01 a.m. to 11:59 p.m. on February 12, all businesses, including shops, pubs, and bars, are barred from selling alcohol. The Pattaya Police Department has issued a warning to all establishments, emphasizing compliance. Violators face fines of up to 10,000 baht or six months in prison. This measure is part of Thailand's tradition of respecting religious observances. While locals spend the day engaged in merit-making and visiting temples, many foreign tourists are caught off guard. Expecting to enjoy Pattaya’s renowned nightlife, visitors find themselves facing closed bars and dry restaurants, leading to widespread frustration. Business owners must navigate these regulations carefully or risk penalties. For further inquiries, establishments can reach out to Pattaya City Police Station at 038-420804-5. Despite the ban being temporary, many tourists question its necessity, especially in a major tourist hub like Pattaya. Meanwhile, business owners are pressing for change. They argue that the outdated 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. alcohol sales ban no longer makes sense. The push for reform gains momentum as a new bill to amend the alcohol beverage control law progresses in the House of Representatives. Kawee Sakawee, Chairperson of the Thai Alcohol Beverage Business Association, notes that the restriction was initially aimed to prevent civil servants from drinking during work hours, a rule he believes needs modernization. With the alcohol industry bringing in around 600 billion baht annually and contributing roughly 150 billion baht to government funds, updating the law could align with economic interests. While Thai residents have adapted to these regulations, the ban continues to pose challenges for international visitors looking to enjoy their stay, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-11

Thai MP's Friend Claims Police Demanded 400,000 Baht Bribe Photo via Maticho A scandal involving Thai Progressive Party MP, Chaiyamphawan "Puaut" Manpianjit, has taken a new twist. Accused of raping a Taiwanese woman on January 9th in a hotel, the MP's friend now alleges that local police demanded a 400,000 baht bribe to quash the case. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351487-thai-mps-friend-claims-police-demanded-400000-baht-bribe/

Photo via Maticho A scandal involving Thai Progressive Party MP, Chaiyamphawan "Puaut" Manpianjit, has taken a new twist. Accused of raping a Taiwanese woman on January 9th in a hotel, the MP's friend now alleges that local police demanded a 400,000 baht bribe to quash the case. Previously ejected from the Move Forward Party due to similar accusations, Chaiyamphawan stands accused again, this time by two Taiwanese women, seen on CCTV drinking with him at a bar. The footage shows him leaving their hotel after about 20 minutes, raising questions about the night’s events. Chaiyamphawan's friend claims the MP, after being summoned to Chiang Mai Police Station, was coerced into paying the hefty sum to keep the charges under wraps. When he refused, the police reportedly moved forward with an arrest warrant and public disclosure. Despite these serious allegations, neither Chaiyamphawan nor his representative have publicly addressed the claims, although they argue that the encounter was consensual and that the MP intends to pursue legal proceedings. Chiang Mai Police Superintendent Pratchaya Thitla dismissed the bribery allegations, urging any evidence be presented for investigation. Pratchaya vowed to punish any officer found guilty of extortion but warned of legal action against the MP's friend if the claim proved false. As the MP faces court proceedings, the case not only highlights serious accusations but also questions about police integrity in Thailand, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-11

FDA Clarifies Rules on Tea Colors: What You Need to Know File photo for reference only The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced that certain color additives in teas are permissible and advised consumers to always check for FDA approval on product labels. While it's safe to enjoy a cup, the FDA recommends moderation to avoid excessive intake, suggesting teas with a natural appearance. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351486-fda-clarifies-rules-on-tea-colors-what-you-need-to-know/

File photo for reference only The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced that certain color additives in teas are permissible and advised consumers to always check for FDA approval on product labels. While it's safe to enjoy a cup, the FDA recommends moderation to avoid excessive intake, suggesting teas with a natural appearance. On February 10, Dr. Surachoke Tangwiwat, FDA Secretary General, addressed online concerns regarding the use of Yellow No. 6, also known as Sunset Yellow, in teas. He explained that this color is commonly added to pre-mixed teas, alongside flavors. The law allows a maximum of 100 milligrams of Yellow No. 6 per kilogram in ready-to-drink tea, ensuring safety as per World Health Organization guidelines. While these limits are internationally recognized as safe, overconsumption remains a concern. Dr. Surachoke mentioned ongoing studies on synthetic food colors potentially influencing attention deficit disorders in children, although no concrete evidence has been found thus far. When buying packaged tea, it's crucial to look for the FDA number along with the manufacturer or importer’s name and the ingredient list to ensure safety and authenticity. Natural teas, typically composed of tea leaves or powder, won't list added colors or sugars. In contrast, pre-mixed teas with added ingredients will have labels noting artificial or natural colors, often detailed with INS numbers or names like Sunset Yellow. Consumers should ensure their brewed tea has a natural look, steering clear of vividly bright colors. For extra assurance, choose lighter-colored drinks at cafes or shops, avoid excessive daily consumption, and diversify your beverage choices for well-rounded health safety, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-11

Thai Beauty Queen Ousted Amid Shocking Soup Attack Scandal Photo via Instagram and Facebook A shocking soup attack has rocked Thailand's LGBTQIA+ community, leading to the suspension of a Thai actress and the revocation of a transgender beauty queen’s title. These measures were taken after their alleged connections with suspects involved in the assault on an LGBTQIA+ university student named Andrew in Pathum Thani province. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351485-thai-beauty-queen-ousted-amid-shocking-soup-attack-scandal/

Photo via Instagram and Facebook A shocking soup attack has rocked Thailand's LGBTQIA+ community, leading to the suspension of a Thai actress and the revocation of a transgender beauty queen’s title. These measures were taken after their alleged connections with suspects involved in the assault on an LGBTQIA+ university student named Andrew in Pathum Thani province. Andrew and his friends detailed their ordeal on Channel 3's news program Hone Krasae, clarifying that the attack on February 7 was driven by jealousy, not financial disputes as previously believed. The alleged ringleader, 22-year-old Rasipa “Preme” Sajjawan, harbored feelings for another student, Kla, who befriended Andrew. This seemingly fueled Preme's rage. Preme and 19-year-old Chakatphon “Oshi” Washirawan, both students of Bangkok University, have been arrested but more appalling revelations followed. Multiple victims accused Preme of false allegations and violent assaults, with some claiming that they were forced to make payments and endure physical abuse. Alleged accomplice Raksak “Pare” Sakijai, recently stripped of her Miss Teen Trans Phetchaburi title, contends she didn’t participate in the attack despite her presence at the scene. Meanwhile, actress Kanyaphat “Pimgel” Srichan was suspended by Jumdee Film Production. Her future in the entertainment industry hangs in the balance as investigations continue. As the controversy unfolds, it highlights a grim chapter of violence and intimidation within a community striving for acceptance and equality. Victims are stepping forward, hoping for justice and a resolution to this unsettling saga, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-11

Phuket Beach Crisis: Pollution Continues to Threaten Tourists Photo courtesy of PCD via The Phuket News Phuket’s reputation as a tropical paradise is in jeopardy once more, as black wastewater was spotted flowing onto Kamala Beach, a popular spot for both tourists and locals. Despite previous promises to tackle pollution, the problem persists, raising health concerns for beachgoers. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351484-phuket-beach-crisis-pollution-continues-to-threaten-tourists/

Photo courtesy of PCD via The Phuket News Phuket’s reputation as a tropical paradise is in jeopardy once more, as black wastewater was spotted flowing onto Kamala Beach, a popular spot for both tourists and locals. Despite previous promises to tackle pollution, the problem persists, raising health concerns for beachgoers. In response to the public outcry, Pollution Control Department (PCD) Director General Preeyaporn Suwannaket has launched an urgent investigation into the foul-smelling water. The issue gained attention after Minister of Natural Resources and Environment Chalermchai Sri-on was informed about the incident on February 7. Local officials from the Phuket Environmental and Pollution Control Region 15 Office quickly surveyed the scene, confirming that the dirty water was seeping from a public canal linked to local runoff. The canal's surface appeared cloudy, and a grimy black sludge extended 250 meters into the sea, releasing a pungent odor. The root of the problem lies with Kamala's underperforming wastewater treatment system, managed by the Wastewater Management Organisation (WMO), operating at only 30% efficiency. The station’s uphill location has resulted in untreated waste spilling into the ocean. Short-term solutions include spraying microorganisms to reduce odors, setting up microorganism tanks along the canal, and installing a temporary pump to boost treatment capacity. For the long term, plans include constructing two more pumping stations and enhancing the wastewater collection system. Local businesses and residents have been advised to adhere to waste disposal regulations. Inspections of hotels and laundromats have been planned, with findings expected by February 14. Despite ongoing efforts, the problem of black wastewater remains, marring Phuket’s renowned beaches. Similar challenges were reported last year in Patong, Karon, Bang Tao, and Cherng Talay, yet effective solutions remain out of reach. While officials vow continued monitoring, locals and tourists grow increasingly skeptical about the likelihood of meaningful action, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-11

Phuket Prison to Park: A Verdant New Chapter Unfolds Photo courtesy of The Phuket News Phuket's historic prison is set for a major transformation! The old Phuket Prison, one of Thailand’s oldest penal institutions, is being resurrected as a vibrant public park in the heart of Phuket Town, a project spearheaded by the Phuket Provincial Administrative Organisation (PPAO). Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351483-phuket-prison-to-park-a-verdant-new-chapter-unfolds/

Photo courtesy of The Phuket News Phuket's historic prison is set for a major transformation! The old Phuket Prison, one of Thailand’s oldest penal institutions, is being resurrected as a vibrant public park in the heart of Phuket Town, a project spearheaded by the Phuket Provincial Administrative Organisation (PPAO). This exciting redevelopment spans a 33-rai site and aims to create a recreational haven with an observation tower, multipurpose pavilion, pagoda, and a 300-vehicle parking facility to help ease traffic congestion downtown. Contractors have begun levelling the area and fortifying the prison’s historical walls. Sayan Kaewsringam, the project manager from SPM 5988 Co Ltd, shared that pile-driving for the observation tower is underway, with more heavy machinery coming next week for other significant constructions. Backed by newly re-elected PPAO President Rewat Areerob, this initiative is part of a broader mission to boost green spaces and enrich Phuket's urban environment. Set to be completed by the end of 2025, the park is anticipated to become the “lungs of Phuket Town.” The transition began back in November 2022, with the demolition of the prison walls, and received a funding approval of 169.5 million baht in June 2023. Built over 120 years ago, the prison remains a critical historical landmark. Former Prison Commander Krisana Thipayachan highlights its significance as a relic of Thailand's penal past. Although not used for inmate detention anymore, parts of the facility will be preserved as a “live museum” and eco-tourism attraction, offering visitors insights into historical correctional practices. In addition, the site will become an educational hub about Thailand’s justice system and a vocational training centre for inmates, aiding their transition back into society, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-11

Migrants, Not Tourists, in Pattaya Beach Viral Snooze Drama - video Picture courtesy of Pattaya Mail Last week, a video went viral on social media, allegedly showing Indian tourists sprawled out on Pattaya Beach. The video, which showed over 100 individuals sleeping, drinking, and leaving a mess on the sand, sparked outrage. However, it has been revealed that these were not tourists but rather migrants. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351480-migrants-not-tourists-in-pattaya-beach-viral-snooze-drama-video/

Picture courtesy of Pattaya Mail Last week, a video went viral on social media, allegedly showing Indian tourists sprawled out on Pattaya Beach. The video, which showed over 100 individuals sleeping, drinking, and leaving a mess on the sand, sparked outrage. However, it has been revealed that these were not tourists but rather migrants. Pattaya City Mayor, Poramet Ngampichet, clarified the situation, emphasizing the beach's open-door policy to all. The mayor reminded everyone of the guidelines meant to maintain the beach's cleanliness and order. Meanwhile, local staff have been tasked with keeping the area tidy for all visitors. Dr. Deo Kumar Singh, President of the Indian Association of Chon Buri, investigated and found that the individuals in the video were from countries like Bangladesh, Myanmar, Nepal, and Sri Lanka, not India. These workers had rested on the beach overnight before heading to Bangkok. Local beach operators noted this incident as unusual. Although European tourists are common, the overnight setup was unprecedented. They have since urged law enforcement to tighten beach regulations to prevent similar situations. In response, Dr. Singh plans to collaborate with local authorities to educate Indian tourists about best practices in Thailand. This initiative aims to promote proper conduct and respect for local customs and cleanliness, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-11

Thai Fishermen Save Woman Floating in Sea for Six Hours Photo via Channel 7 In a dramatic sea rescue, fishermen in Krabi, Thailand, saved a 46-year-old foreign woman named Malanie, who had been adrift for six hours. The incident occurred on February 10, about 6 kilometers off the coast of Koh Lanta. Arun, a local, informed the community leader in Khlong Thom district about the incredible rescue made by her employees. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351478-thai-fishermen-save-woman-floating-in-sea-for-six-hours/

Photo via Channel 7 In a dramatic sea rescue, fishermen in Krabi, Thailand, saved a 46-year-old foreign woman named Malanie, who had been adrift for six hours. The incident occurred on February 10, about 6 kilometers off the coast of Koh Lanta. Arun, a local, informed the community leader in Khlong Thom district about the incredible rescue made by her employees. Setting out on the boat "Janjira Nam Chok" for a night of squid fishing, the fishermen spotted Malanie waving for help. Without hesitation, they pulled her aboard and provided her with food and drink. As she seemed unharmed, they continued fishing until morning before safely returning her to shore. Malanie recounted how a late swim from her Koh Lanta Yai accommodation turned into an unexpected overnight ordeal. Losing her bearings in the dark, she drifted until fisherman stumbled upon her hours later. Grateful for her rescue, Malanie thanked the crew, posed for photos with the boat owner, and was reunited with her accommodation staff later in the day. This heartwarming incident highlights the courage and kindness of the local fishing community, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-11

Stray Dog Crisis at Pattaya Sports Center: Urgent Call for Change Photo via Facebook/ Pattaya news live Residents are calling for a sustainable solution to control stray dogs at the Eastern National Sports Training Centre in Pattaya. This plea comes after a 10-year-old girl, Kanom Pang, was savagely attacked by a stray dog on Saturday, February 8. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351395-stray-dog-crisis-at-pattaya-sports-center-urgent-call-for-change/

Photo via Facebook/ Pattaya news live Residents are calling for a sustainable solution to control stray dogs at the Eastern National Sports Training Centre in Pattaya. This plea comes after a 10-year-old girl, Kanom Pang, was savagely attacked by a stray dog on Saturday, February 8. Kanom Pang and her father were attending the popular Burapha Bike Week event when she was bitten by a stray dog. The attack occurred as she and her friends rode electric bicycles past a gathering of these animals. The bite on her left leg was severe, necessitating 15 stitches. Some parts of her leg were so damaged they couldn't be stitched. Channel 7 revealed that no official body took responsibility for the incident, and the stray dogs remained in the area following the attack. More than 10 strays were spotted around the venue, many sheltering under parked food vendor vehicles. Local vendors reported that residents often feed the strays, yet no one has adopted or claimed ownership of the aggressive dog. Disagreement exists among vendors, with some attributing the increase in dog numbers to the feeding, and calling for authorities to intervene before another attack occurs, as this wasn't an isolated incident. -- 2025-02-10

Police Bust Major Scam, Arrest Key Suspect in App Fraud Case Picture courtesy of KhaoSod In a major breakthrough, the Crime Suppression Division, led by Police Major General Wichaya Sriprasertphap, has successfully dismantled a sophisticated scam network dubbed "Operation AOC Case." This operation targeted a fraudulent money-syphoning app that deceived victims by impersonating their close friends. The criminals tricked victims into clicking on links and sharing personal information, resulting in nearly 1 million baht (around US$29,565) being stolen. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351394-police-bust-major-scam-arrest-key-suspect-in-app-fraud-case/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod In a major breakthrough, the Crime Suppression Division, led by Police Major General Wichaya Sriprasertphap, has successfully dismantled a sophisticated scam network dubbed "Operation AOC Case." This operation targeted a fraudulent money-syphoning app that deceived victims by impersonating their close friends. The criminals tricked victims into clicking on links and sharing personal information, resulting in nearly 1 million baht (around US$29,565) being stolen. On February 10, 34-year-old Nuch (surname withheld) was arrested following an arrest warrant issued by the Criminal Court on January 22. Nuch faces charges for allowing the misuse of her bank account and electronic card for technology-related crimes. The operation was set in motion when a victim, defrauded while overseas, reported the scam. The victim received a deceptive Instagram message from a fake account impersonating a friend, inviting them on a trip abroad via a Google form requesting personal details like name and ID number. Unsuspecting, the victim complied, only to discover upon returning to Thailand that their bank account was drained of nearly 1 million baht. Investigations revealed that the scammers used the stolen details to hijack the victim's account, transferring almost 1 million baht across 26 transactions to Nuch's account. Nuch, a key player in the operation, withdrew the money and sent it to a middleman, acting on orders from the ringleader. Police raids were conducted across four locations in Nakhon Pathom, Chachoengsao, Khon Kaen, and Maha Sarakham provinces, resulting in the arrest of four individuals involved in the scam. Those arrested confessed to buying mule accounts from Nuch, who admitted to her role in the operation. All the suspects have been handed over to the Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau for further legal proceedings. The bust highlights the ongoing fight against cybercrime and the need for heightened public awareness to prevent falling victim to similar scams. -- 2025-02-10

Heroic Bystanders Unite to Save Trapped Motorcyclist in Phuket - video Photo via Facebook/ Phuket Times ภูเก็ตไทม์ In a remarkable display of courage and unity, nearly 20 individuals, including Thai, Burmese, and foreign witnesses, joined forces in Phuket to rescue an elderly motorcyclist trapped under a sedan on February 9. Despite the quick response and swift action, the rider later died from his injuries in the hospital. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351393-heroic-bystanders-unite-to-save-trapped-motorcyclist-in-phuket-video/

Photo via Facebook/ Phuket Times ภูเก็ตไทม์ In a remarkable display of courage and unity, nearly 20 individuals, including Thai, Burmese, and foreign witnesses, joined forces in Phuket to rescue an elderly motorcyclist trapped under a sedan on February 9. Despite the quick response and swift action, the rider later died from his injuries in the hospital. The Phuket Times captured this act of heroism in a moving video that has since garnered widespread praise across social media, with many netizens applauding the selflessness of everyone involved and sending heartfelt condolences to the motorcyclist's family. According to Channel 7, the accident occurred when a sedan collided with the motorcycle, trapping the elderly man underneath. The video showed bystanders responding rapidly to the victim's cries for help, ultimately freeing him from the weight of the car. A nurse on the scene also stopped to provide immediate assistance before the injured man was taken to the hospital. The motorcyclist's daughter expressed profound gratitude for the efforts of the rescuers and the outpouring of support online. Tragically, reports confirmed that he passed away on February 10, leaving many to mourn his loss. As of now, no legal action has been reported against the sedan driver, and further investigation into the accident's cause is ongoing. -- 2025-02-10

UPDATE: Bangkok's New Bus Stops Stir Up Storm Over Cost and Design Picture courtesy of bangkokbiznews Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt is standing firm against criticism over the design and pricing of new bus shelters planned for the city. The initiative aims to replace around 3,000 bus stops, addressing the need for more permanent structures. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350913-bangkoks-new-bus-shelters-spark-controversy-over-design/#findComment-19577927

Jealous Rage Turns Deadly: Man Sets Ex-Wife's Partner Alight Photo via Facebook/ อาสาสมัครบรรเทาสาธารณภัยแห่งประเทศไทย ธน34-00 ฐานบุญวิภา A shocking act of jealousy led to a tragic death in Bangkok on Friday when 46-year-old Akkakorn, known as Ploen, set his ex-wife's new partner, Rachain, on fire in a temple parking lot. Rachain, a 52-year-old watermelon vendor, sustained severe burns and succumbed to his injuries at Charoenkrung Pracharak Hospital the next day. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351391-jealous-rage-turns-deadly-man-sets-ex-wifes-partner-alight/

Photo via Facebook/ อาสาสมัครบรรเทาสาธารณภัยแห่งประเทศไทย ธน34-00 ฐานบุญวิภา A shocking act of jealousy led to a tragic death in Bangkok on Friday when 46-year-old Akkakorn, known as Ploen, set his ex-wife's new partner, Rachain, on fire in a temple parking lot. Rachain, a 52-year-old watermelon vendor, sustained severe burns and succumbed to his injuries at Charoenkrung Pracharak Hospital the next day. The incident took place at Dokmai Temple's car park, where Ploen reportedly doused Rachain with petrol and ignited him. Witnesses identified Ploen as a former chauffeur for the temple's abbot. The motive behind this brutal attack appears to be jealousy over Rachain’s relationship with Ploen’s ex-wife, Nukanda. Rachain's daughter believes the attack sprang from jealousy, suggesting that Ploen could have resolved the matter calmly. Despite harassment during the six-month relationship between Rachain and Nukanda, Ploen's violent attack was unexpected. Reports suggest Ploen demanded the return of money and a car from Nukanda, though it's unclear if any debt existed. Currently, Ploen is on the run, with police issuing an arrest warrant for murder and arson. He faces severe penalties if convicted, ranging from the death penalty to life imprisonment, in addition to charges related to arson, which carry their own heavy sentences. -- 2025-02-10

Bangkok's New Plan: Beat Traffic with a Congestion Charge Traffic in Bangkok | Photo via ThaiResidents.com In an effort to tackle chronic traffic jams and pollution in Bangkok, Thailand plans to introduce a congestion charge in six high-traffic areas of the city. Following successful implementations in cities like London and Milan, the charge aims to relieve gridlock, encourage public transport, and cut down greenhouse gas emissions. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351390-bangkoks-new-plan-beat-traffic-with-a-congestion-charge/