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700 Stray Dogs Starving in Thai Landfill - Rabies Fears Rise File photo for reference only In a dire situation in Chachoengsao province, over 700 stray dogs are starving at a local landfill, raising fears of a potential rabies outbreak as temperatures rise. Residents are calling on the government to urgently address the growing crisis. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350222-700-stray-dogs-starving-in-thai-landfill-rabies-fears-rise/

File photo for reference only In a dire situation in Chachoengsao province, over 700 stray dogs are starving at a local landfill, raising fears of a potential rabies outbreak as temperatures rise. Residents are calling on the government to urgently address the growing crisis. On January 28, reporters visited the landfill in Mueang Hua Samrong, Plang Yao district, a remote area hemmed in by forests and accessible only by dirt roads. They found dogs in groups of 20 to 30, looking thin and scared. Many were retreating into the grass, and there were numerous dog carcasses, likely due to disease and hunger. Pavannapat, a compassionate 49-year-old local, has spent her own money for the past year to feed these strays with rice, kibble, and water, costing her about 1,500 baht (US$45) on each visit. Despite her efforts, she can no longer manage the ever-growing dog population. Faced with the rainy season, Pavannapat set up tarps to shelter the dogs. But as the hot season approaches, her worries increase about rabies spreading among the dogs and into nearby communities. She is pleading for immediate action from the authorities to manage the stray dog issue and prevent a rabies outbreak before it gets worse. The situation demands urgent attention from government agencies to provide a solution, as Pavannapat’s personal resources are stretched thin, and the logistical challenges are overwhelming. -- 2025-01-29

Phuket Prepares for Important Local Elections on February 1 File photo for reference only Phuket is gearing up for significant local elections, with final preparations led by Governor Sophon Suwannarat. The elections for the Phuket Provincial Administrative Organisation (PPAO), including the president and council members, are scheduled for February 1st. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350220-phuket-prepares-for-important-local-elections-on-february-1/

File photo for reference only Phuket is gearing up for significant local elections, with final preparations led by Governor Sophon Suwannarat. The elections for the Phuket Provincial Administrative Organisation (PPAO), including the president and council members, are scheduled for February 1st. During the "Election Big Day" event, organized by the Election Commission of Thailand's Phuket office and the PPAO, Akarawat Sirithanthanakorn, PPAO Secretary and Director of Elections, shared details about the election setup. Voters will choose from three candidates for PPAO President and 58 candidates vying for council seats. The election sees a total of 314,408 eligible to vote for president and 307,317 for council seats. There will be 392 polling stations available across Phuket, divided among Mueang, Thalang, and Kathu districts. Stations will operate from 8am to 5pm on election day. Preparations include training polling staff, readying equipment, and coordinating with agencies like electricity and security to ensure the election runs smoothly, as reported by ECT Phuket Director Orapin Achiwasuk. Governor Sophon stressed the importance of democratic participation. "This effort represents joint cooperation to strengthen democracy, encouraging votes that are honest and transparent." Phuket residents are encouraged to vote at their registered stations on Saturday, with officials urging them to choose capable candidates for the province. The event concluded with a vehicle parade featuring 700 participants from various sectors to boost public engagement. Importantly, a ban on alcohol sales and the closure of entertainment venues will be enforced from 6pm on January 31 until 6pm on February 1, in line with Thai law to maintain order during the elections. -- 2025-01-29

Thailand’s Destination Visa loophole that could cost you By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Everything Bangkok The much-hyped Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) is proving to be more of a bureaucratic headache than a dream ticket. While Bangkok Immigration (Division 1) has published criteria for extending the visa by six months, these guidelines aren’t binding on provincial offices, leaving holders navigating a minefield of uncertainty. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350218-thailand’s-destination-visa-loophole-that-could-cost-you/

Photo courtesy of Everything Bangkok By Puntid Tantivangphaisal The much-hyped Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) is proving to be more of a bureaucratic headache than a dream ticket. While Bangkok Immigration (Division 1) has published criteria for extending the visa by six months, these guidelines aren’t binding on provincial offices, leaving holders navigating a minefield of uncertainty. The biggest revelation? It’s far easier to leave the country every 180 days than to fight through the paperwork jungle for a local extension. A review of the DTV Facebook group shows that 75% of holders believe a simple border hop is the safest bet over the five-year validity of the visa. For those daring enough to request an extension within Thailand, be prepared for a bureaucratic rollercoaster. The list of required documents is overwhelming: Proof of at least 500,000 baht (US$14,000) in funds A detailed Thai address history (blue book, ID, rental agreements, TM30, and TM47) Updated proof of activity (employment verification, work portfolios for digital nomads, and photos of skill-learning for soft power holders) Some categories face extra hurdles—artists need government-issued invitations, while boxing and cooking students must prove they’re still learning years after their courses began. But the real ticking time bomb? Tax liability. If you stay in Thailand for 180 days or more in a calendar year, you could be on the hook for income tax on overseas earnings. Many DTV holders are clueless about Thailand’s tax identification number (TIN) and potential obligations, reported Pattaya Mail. The bottom line? The DTV is effectively a five-year tourist visa, requiring holders to exit at least twice a year unless local immigration miraculously bends the rules. Whether staying 179 days or less is the ultimate loophole remains the million-baht question. Different Thai embassies and consulates may interpret DTV requirements differently, leading to inconsistencies in application processing and approval. Some applicants have reported difficulties during the immigration process, including denied entry and additional scrutiny, especially if transitioning from other visa types. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-29

Trio arrested for stealing highway cables in Surat Thani By Bright Choomanee Three men have been arrested for stealing highway street lighting cables in Surat Thani province. The suspects were caught in the act by local highway officials and police. A subsequent search of their residence revealed more stolen items. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350217-trio-arrested-for-stealing-highway-cables-in-surat-thani/

By Bright Choomanee Three men have been arrested for stealing highway street lighting cables in Surat Thani province. The suspects were caught in the act by local highway officials and police. A subsequent search of their residence revealed more stolen items. Yesterday, January 28, Kritsada Khongplot, head of the Khian Sa highway department, received a tip-off about suspicious activity on Highway 44, at kilometre marker 67+400, near Ban Bang Yai in Khian Sa district. The criminals were reportedly digging to steal electrical cables. Acting, Kritsada and six other officials, along with two rescue workers from the Kuson Sattha Foundation, rushed to the scene, coordinating with Khian Sa district police. Upon arrival, the police found three men using spades to dig around the base of a light pole. As the officials attempted to apprehend them, the suspects fled on motorcycles. During the chase, one of the suspects brandished a machete. However, they eventually collided with a police vehicle and were apprehended. One suspect sustained injuries in the incident. The suspects were later identified as 21 year old Somporn, 19 year old Santi, and 23 year old Wirachai. They were found in possession of stolen electrical cables and burglary tools. Further investigation led the officials to the suspects’ residence in Bang Sawat subdistrict, Phrasaeng district. There, they discovered numerous discarded cable casings, stripped of their copper wires, in a drainage ditch behind the house. The suspects were subsequently handed over to Khian Sa police for further legal proceedings. Lieutenant Colonel Warin Fungfuang, the director of the third Surat Thani highway office in Wiang Sa, confirmed that the suspects are considered a societal threat and emphasised the importance of enforcing the law to its fullest extent, reported KhaoSod. He assured that the highway department is working to repair the street lighting system promptly to ensure public safety. Warin also urged residents to report any suspicious activities to local police. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-29

Illegal foreign workers busted in Bangkok salon raid By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A beauty salon in Bangkok catering to Chinese tourists was raided, leading to the arrest of six hairdressers from China and Myanmar. The Chinese owner fled the scene. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350216-illegal-foreign-workers-busted-in-bangkok-salon-raid/

Photo courtesy of KhaoSod By Puntid Tantivangphaisal A beauty salon in Bangkok catering to Chinese tourists was raided, leading to the arrest of six hairdressers from China and Myanmar. The Chinese owner fled the scene. Police General Kittirat Phanpet, the national police chief, yesterday ordered measures to address the issue of foreigners breaking the law and to prepare for the High Season. Police Lieutenant General Saksira Phueka-am, the tourism police commander, along with Police Major General Pongsayam Meekhantong, deputy commander, issued an urgent order on January 24 to crack down on illegal foreign workers and crimes affecting the tourism industry. The investigation led by Police Colonel Songwut Chueaplakid from the tourist police instructed Police Lieutenant Colonel Piyapong Bukkhunthot and his team to monitor the activities of foreigners illegally working in major tourist areas. They discovered illegal activities at Yinhaijinchuan Barber & Salon on Rama 9 Road, near Central Rama 9, owned by a Chinese national who managed to escape. The police detained six foreign workers at the salon and transferred them to the Huai Khwang Police Station for legal proceedings. The individuals arrested include: 40 year old Chen Tao, a Chinese national, charged with working without a permit and engaging in a prohibited occupation (hairdressing); 31 year old Yang Bo, also from China, facing similar charges; 18 year old Burmese national, Lai, charged with illegal entry and working in a prohibited occupation; 23 year old May, another Burmese national, facing the same charges; 23 year old Kai, a Burmese national, charged with illegal entry; and 19 year old Mo, also from Myanmar, facing illegal entry charges The operation highlights ongoing efforts to tackle illegal employment and protect the integrity of Thailand’s tourism sector, reported KhaoSod. In Thailand, certain occupations are legally reserved exclusively for Thai nationals to protect local employment and cultural heritage. As of recent regulations, 27 professions are entirely off-limits to foreign workers, including hairdressing. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-29

Thai taxi rider arrested for snatching Burmese woman’s gold necklace By Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ บิ๊กเกรียน Police arrested a Thai motorcycle taxi rider for snatching a gold necklace from a Burmese victim as she was walking on a footpath in Bangkok on Sunday, January. 26 Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350215-thai-taxi-rider-arrested-for-snatching-burmese-woman’s-gold-necklace/

Photo via Facebook/ บิ๊กเกรียน By Petch Petpailin Police arrested a Thai motorcycle taxi rider for snatching a gold necklace from a Burmese victim as she was walking on a footpath in Bangkok on Sunday, January. 26 The Burmese woman, Moe Moe Win, lodged a complaint with Phetchakasem Police Station at around 9.40am on Sunday following the theft. The incident occurred outside the Nanyang shoe factory in Soi Phetchakasem 41, located in Bangkok’s Bang Kae district. Moe Moe Win informed the police that she was walking along the footpath outside the factory when the motorcycle taxi rider sped past her and snatched her gold necklace. She reported that the rider was on a green motorcycle but was unable to identify its brand. Officers reviewed security camera footage from outside the factory and identified the suspect as 47 year old Prasit. The police tracked him down and discovered him hiding in Ayutthaya province following the crime. When officers arrived, Prasit displayed suspicious behaviour and eventually confessed to the theft. A subsequent search of his residence in Ayutthaya revealed no additional illegal items. Prasit admitted that he sold the stolen gold necklace at a gold shop in Soi Thoet Thai 14 in Bangkok’s Thon Buri district for 104,000 baht. He claimed to have used the proceeds to repay debts before fleeing to Ayutthaya. Police seized his motorcycle, the clothing he wore during the crime, and 20,000 baht in cash that remained from the sale of the necklace. Prasit’s criminal history shows prior convictions, including a theft charge in the Bang Rak area in 2018, another theft charge in Bang Mod in 2019, a violation of the Computer Act in Phasi Charoen in 2020, and a snatching charge in the Samre area of Bangkok in 2024. Police have urged anyone who may have previously fallen victim to this motorcycle taxi rider to come forward and report their cases. For the recent snatching incident, Prasit was charged under Section 336 of the Criminal Law for stealing another person’s valuables by snatching. The offence carries a penalty of up to five years imprisonment and a fine of up to 100,000 baht. As Prasit used a vehicle to facilitate the crime, he faced an increased penalty under Section 336, which stipulates an additional half of the standard sentence. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-29

Thai monk denies fatal hit-and-run despite CCTV evidence By Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ หนึ่ง ธนกร A Thai monk denied involvement in a fatal hit-and-run in the central province of Ayutthaya, despite CCTV footage showing his car at the accident scene at approximately 12.30am on Monday, January 27. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350214-thai-monk-denies-fatal-hit-and-run-despite-cctv-evidence/

Photo via Facebook/ หนึ่ง ธนกร By Petch Petpailin A Thai monk denied involvement in a fatal hit-and-run in the central province of Ayutthaya, despite CCTV footage showing his car at the accident scene at approximately 12.30am on Monday, January 27. Rescuers from the Ruam Katanyu Foundation reported the death of a 30 year old Thai motorcyclist, Kasemsan, on their Facebook page on Monday. Kasemsan’s body was found at the side of the Ayutthaya-Ang Thong Road alongside his damaged motorcycle, a blue Honda Wave 101i. No other vehicles or motorists were present upon the rescuers’ arrival, prompting them to file a complaint with Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Police Station. Officers reviewed security camera footage from the scene and identified a suspicious vehicle. The footage showed the car travelling at high speed before moving close to Kasemsan’s motorcycle, causing him to lose control and crash. It was not clear whether the car hit the motorcycle or not, as the incident took place far from the camera. Following further investigation, police identified the driver as a monk named Date, who resides at Choeng Tha Temple in the province. The monk was summoned for questioning but denied the allegations. He claimed he left the temple that night to search for his son, as he was concerned that the boy had gone out with friends to participate in illegal street racing. Despite the CCTV footage, the monk insisted he did not crash into the motorcycle. Police released him after just five minutes of questioning. Channel 3 reported that journalists visited the temple in an attempt to inspect the monk’s car for any signs of a collision. The media confirmed that the motorcyclist had not crashed into the vehicle on his own, as his motorcycle showed clear evidence of a heavy impact. Another monk at the temple told the media that Kasemsan had no known family members. However, he was described as a good person who often volunteered in temple and community activities. He was well-liked by fellow monks and local residents. Police have yet to file any charges against the monk and have not confirmed whether his claim about his son was truthful, as a fellow monk stated that he had no family members. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-29

Mother of newborn twins falls to her death in hospital tragedy By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Matichon A tragic incident occurred at Pathum Thani Hospital when a 31 year old mother of newborn twins fell to her death from the 18th floor. The hospital has issued a heartfelt statement, expressing deep condolences to the family and pledging full cooperation with police investigations. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350213-mother-of-newborn-twins-falls-to-her-death-in-hospital-tragedy/

Picture courtesy of Matichon By Bright Choomanee A tragic incident occurred at Pathum Thani Hospital when a 31 year old mother of newborn twins fell to her death from the 18th floor. The hospital has issued a heartfelt statement, expressing deep condolences to the family and pledging full cooperation with police investigations. The woman, known as Bee for anonymity, had given birth to premature twins on January 22. After being discharged from the hospital on January 25, she returned to visit her children. On the morning of January 27, at approximately 9am, her body was discovered on the second-floor balcony of the medical centre. Police and forensic doctors are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding her death. Yesterday, January 28, at 1pm, her brother and other family members arrived at the Ministry of Justice’s Institute of Forensic Science in Mueang district, Pathum Thani province, to receive her body. The family plans to conduct funeral rites in her hometown, Wichian Buri district, Phetchabun province. They refrained from speaking to the media, expressing concerns about the emotional impact on the children. Pathum Thani Hospital expressed profound sorrow over the event, reiterating their commitment to supporting the investigation. They also emphasised their dedication to enhancing safety measures to prevent similar incidents in the future, reported KhaoSod. As part of their immediate response, the hospital is reviewing its safety protocols to ensure maximum security, with plans to implement any necessary changes promptly. If you or anyone you know is in emotional distress, please contact the Samaritans of Thailand 24-hour hotline: 02 713 6791 (English), 02 713 6793 (Thai), or the Thai Mental Health Hotline at 1323 (Thai). Please also contact your friends or relatives at this time if you have feelings of loneliness, stress, or depression. Seek help. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-29

Pattaya’s tourism takes a hit after Chinese abduction - video By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail Thailand’s tourism industry has been rocked by the recent abduction of Chinese actor Wang Xing, leaving popular hotspots like Pattaya eerily quiet. The star was allegedly lured to Thailand under false pretences before being trafficked across the border and held captive in Myawaddy, Myanmar. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350212-pattaya’s-tourism-takes-a-hit-after-chinese-abduction-video/

Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Thailand’s tourism industry has been rocked by the recent abduction of Chinese actor Wang Xing, leaving popular hotspots like Pattaya eerily quiet. The star was allegedly lured to Thailand under false pretences before being trafficked across the border and held captive in Myawaddy, Myanmar. While Thai police scrambled to rescue the actor, the fallout was swift. News of the terrifying ordeal spread like wildfire in China, sparking fears over safety in Thailand and sending shockwaves through the tourism sector. Once bustling with Chinese visitors, Pattaya is witnessing a drastic downturn in arrivals, with holidaymakers choosing to stay away. Bancha Kullavanit, Executive Director of Ocean Sky Boat Tours, revealed the extent of the damage, stating that Chinese New Year 2025 saw a staggering 30% drop in Chinese tourists compared to 2024. “Traditionally, this festival brings double the number of Chinese visitors, but this year, the numbers have plummeted.” Chinese tourists in Pattaya generally fall into two categories—budget group tours and high-spending independent travellers (F.I.T.). However, both segments have been hit hard. While group tours have already declined due to rising costs, F.I.T. visitors, who usually enjoy luxury stays during peak seasons, have also steered clear, leaving hotels and beaches noticeably emptier than usual. Bancha stressed that the root cause of the decline is the damaging publicity surrounding the kidnapping. “The negative perception of Thailand’s safety, especially among Chinese travellers, has shattered confidence.” Bancha urged the Thai government to take immediate steps to repair the country’s image. With Chinese tourism playing a crucial role in Thailand’s economy, industry leaders are calling for urgent action to restore trust before the damage becomes irreversible, reported Pattaya Mail. Last week, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra assured Chinese tourists through an AI-generated video that Thailand remains a safe place to visit in a bid to retain visitor numbers from one of Thailand’s largest groups of visitors. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-29

Chon Buri stray dog adopted by American man after firecracker scare By Petch Petpailin Photo via ThaiRath An American man calmed a stray dog that was frightened by firecrackers during a Chinese New Year celebration in Chon Buri and ended up adopting the animal. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350211-chon-buri-stray-dog-adopted-by-american-man-after-firecracker-scare/

Photo via ThaiRath By Petch Petpailin An American man calmed a stray dog that was frightened by firecrackers during a Chinese New Year celebration in Chon Buri and ended up adopting the animal. ThaiRath reported yesterday that chaos broke out at a convenience store in the Sattahip district of Chon Buri, but the incident surprisingly had a happy ending. According to the media, a white and light brown male stray dog ran into the store to hide after being startled by the loud noise of firecrackers. A Thai-Chinese family in the area set off a firecracker as part of their Chinese New Year celebrations, but their actions scared the animal. The dog hid in a narrow space between two product shelves, turning its face against the wall while its body trembled in fear. Both the store staff and customers were shocked by the dog’s reaction and felt sorry for the animal. The store manager, 33 year old Jadesada Malirat, approached the dog and tried to coax it out of its hiding place. He spent 30 minutes trying but failed as the dog remained in the store and ignored all efforts made by Jadesada and other staff. A foreign customer, later identified as 39 year old American Joe Schuller, noticed the situation and volunteered to help. He offered the dog a piece of bread filled with sausage and approached it gently. Schuller took only 10 minutes to gain the dog’s trust and successfully brought it out of the store. The stray dog ate the food from the foreigner’s hand and even allowed him to pat it. The stray dog then followed Schuller to his electric motorcycle and snuggled up to him as if they had known each other before. It then climbed onto the vehicle, prompting the American man to adopt it. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-29

Bangkok Cuts Incense Use for Greener Chinese New Year Festivities File photo for reference only Residents of Chinese descent in Bangkok celebrated Chinese New Year in the bustling Chinatown district with fewer incense sticks, aiming to combat the city's notorious PM2.5 air pollution. Despite these efforts to reduce smoke, the vibrant atmosphere remained lively as attendees prayed and offered food to deities and ancestors at temples and shrines. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350140-bangkok-cuts-incense-use-for-greener-chinese-new-year-festivities/

File photo for reference only Residents of Chinese descent in Bangkok celebrated Chinese New Year in the bustling Chinatown district with fewer incense sticks, aiming to combat the city's notorious PM2.5 air pollution. Despite these efforts to reduce smoke, the vibrant atmosphere remained lively as attendees prayed and offered food to deities and ancestors at temples and shrines. At the Guan Yin Shrine, part of the Thian Fah Foundation, officials actively collected incense sticks to limit smoke in the air. The annual Yaowarat Chinese New Year Festival, a much-anticipated event, opens on January 29. Meanwhile, in the coastal province of Trang, both locals and tourists participated in the Trang Chinese New Year and Food Festival. A stunning dragon dance captivated attendees, with the Clock Tower intersection hosting numerous food stalls offering local delicacies and seafood. Cultural performances, including traditional Chinese dance and music, will continue until tomorrow. -- 2025-01-28

Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi leads Southeast Asia aviation industry By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Wego Travel Blog Southeast Asia’s aviation industry is taking off this year, with major airports and emerging destinations recording impressive growth in seat capacity. Fuelled by surging travel demand, expanded airline networks, and strategic connectivity upgrades, the region is cementing its position as a global aviation powerhouse. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350138-bangkok’s-suvarnabhumi-leads-southeast-asia-aviation-industry/

Photo courtesy of Wego Travel Blog By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Southeast Asia’s aviation industry is taking off this year, with major airports and emerging destinations recording impressive growth in seat capacity. Fuelled by surging travel demand, expanded airline networks, and strategic connectivity upgrades, the region is cementing its position as a global aviation powerhouse. Leading the charge is Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport, adding a staggering 407,000 seats in January—a 16% increase from last year. Its dual role as a major tourist gateway and transit hub, combined with Thailand’s booming tourism recovery, solidifies its dominance in the region. Malaysia’s Kuala Lumpur International Airport also saw substantial growth, with a 10% increase adding over 368,000 seats. The airport’s strategic connections across Southeast Asia and the Middle East continue to attract both business and leisure travellers. Singapore’s Changi Airport remains a key global connector, adding nearly 336,000 seats in January, reflecting an 11% increase. Renowned for its extensive route network, Changi’s growth underscores its importance as a vital international gateway. Bangkok’s Don Mueang Airport recorded a stunning 39% rise, with over 255,000 seats added. Catering to budget-conscious travellers, Don Mueang continues to thrive as a hub for low-cost carriers. Phuket International Airport also soared, adding 194,200 seats—an impressive 31% increase—driven by its allure as a premier beach destination for European and Asian tourists. Vietnam’s Phu Quoc Airport emerged as a star performer, with a jaw-dropping 185% surge in seat capacity, adding 108,000 seats. As a rising tropical hotspot, new routes and aggressive expansion have put Phu Quoc on the map, reported The Independent Singapore. Indonesia’s Soekarno-Hatta Airport in Jakarta followed closely, with a 176% increase and 106,000 new seats, reflecting Indonesia’s revitalised tourism and business sectors. With Bali, Hanoi, and Ho Chi Minh City also showing significant gains, Southeast Asia’s aviation market is soaring. As the region invests in connectivity and infrastructure, its airports are shaping the future of global travel, ensuring 2025 is a year to remember in the skies. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-28