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Sukhothai's Air Quality Deteriorates; Residents Advised To Act File photo for reference only Sukhothai province has witnessed dangerously high PM2.5 levels for a week, according to the Ministry of Public Health’s Health Information Centre. Local residents were urged to clean their homes and use protective gear. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350123-sukhothais-air-quality-deteriorates-residents-advised-to-act/

File photo for reference only Sukhothai province has witnessed dangerously high PM2.5 levels for a week, according to the Ministry of Public Health’s Health Information Centre. Local residents were urged to clean their homes and use protective gear. Doctor Warat Chotipitayasunon, a spokesperson for the Ministry, reported a rise in public awareness regarding PM2.5 pollution, with various agencies working together effectively. Despite these efforts, 15 people faced enforcement actions for illegal burning. This illegal activity fueled wildfires, affecting around 6,016 rai of land and worsening PM2.5 levels. Air quality updates show a positive shift, with six provinces now in the blue zone (0-15 micrograms per cubic metre). These are Phatthalung, Pattani, Narathiwat, Yala, Trang, and Sakon Nakhon. The number of green zone provinces, with levels between 15.1-25.0 micrograms, has risen to 17. Fifteen provinces are in the yellow zone (25.1-37.5 micrograms), and 37 in the orange zone (37.5-75.0 micrograms). Sukhothai remains the sole red zone province with levels over 75 micrograms per cubic metre. There has been a slight improvement, from 86 micrograms yesterday to 79 today. Doctor Wararat predicted PM2.5 levels might improve in the next few days due to incoming winds. However, starting January 30, the situation could revert. Residents must stay alert, keep their homes sealed, and use protective measures against dust. -- 2025-01-28

Russian couple accused of dining and dashing at many Phuket restaurants By Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ Phuket Times ภูเก็ตไทม์ A Russian couple reportedly dined and dashed at multiple restaurants in Phuket, sparking an online debate over the visa-free scheme, which some online users claim attracts low-quality foreign visitors. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350122-russian-couple-accused-of-dining-and-dashing-at-many-phuket-restaurants/

Photo via Facebook/ Phuket Times ภูเก็ตไทม์ By Petch Petpailin A Russian couple reportedly dined and dashed at multiple restaurants in Phuket, sparking an online debate over the visa-free scheme, which some online users claim attracts low-quality foreign visitors. A restaurant owner in Patong, Phuket, shared his experience with the foreign couple, believed to be Russian nationals, via the news Facebook page Phuket Times ภูเก็ตไทม์ today, January 28. He warned other restaurant owners to be cautious of their behaviour. The page reported… “Awful! A Russian couple has been dining and dashing at restaurants in Phuket. Sometimes they evade the bills, while at other times they beg for free food, claiming they have no money.” The restaurant owner told the media that the foreign couple showed him a message on their mobile phone. The message read… “We are foreigners and have no money. Could you give us money, food, or necessary items?” The owner decided not to offer them anything, as he did not trust their story. He said he could not verify whether they were genuinely in trouble or simply looking to live an easy life without working. He apologised to the couple and informed them that he could not assist them. The restaurant owner also questioned the Thai officials’ lack of action, pointing out that begging for food and money is illegal under Thai law. A Thai woman commented on the incident, saying she also encountered the couple walking along Nanai Road yesterday, January 27. Some Thai netizens criticised the couple for exploiting the generosity of Thai people. The others blamed the visa-free scheme for allowing foreign visitors to enter the country too easily, leading to an influx of what they described as low-quality foreigners in tourist areas. Another Thai woman shared a similar incident in a different industry, revealing that she worked in a massage parlour where three Israeli clients refused to pay for their services, claiming the massage was not satisfactory. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-28

South Korean Tourists Boost Chiang Mai's Recovery File photo for reference only Chiang Mai is experiencing a tourism shift with South Korea emerging as a top market, potentially surpassing China in visitor numbers this year. This change comes as more direct flights and favorable winter conditions attract South Korean tourists, according to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT). Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350121-south-korean-tourists-boost-chiang-mais-recovery/

File photo for reference only Chiang Mai is experiencing a tourism shift with South Korea emerging as a top market, potentially surpassing China in visitor numbers this year. This change comes as more direct flights and favorable winter conditions attract South Korean tourists, according to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT). Patsalin Swetarat from TAT’s Chiang Mai office noted that while Chinese arrivals haven’t drastically declined, slow post-pandemic recovery and safety concerns have hindered their travel. In contrast, January 2025 saw 34,954 South Koreans visiting Chiang Mai, slightly above 34,894 Chinese visitors. The province is adapting by targeting promising markets like South Korea. Upcoming Chinese New Year celebrations are expected to see an 82% hotel occupancy, bringing in 686 million baht (US$20 million). Of that, 463 million baht (US$13.6 million) will come from international tourists. In 2024, Chinese tourists led with 326,651 arrivals, but South Koreans were close behind with 283,681. Other markets included Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Malaysia. Direct flights are pivotal for Chiang Mai's tourism growth, with efforts to increase flights from India. International tourists make up 30% of Chiang Mai’s visitors. The extended cool weather and lower pollution levels have boosted local tourism since late 2024. The only setback was an October 2024 flood. Airbnb reported South Korea as the top inbound market in Chiang Mai for two quarters in 2024, with a 50% booking increase over 2023. There is also rising interest from the Asia-Pacific region, especially from Japanese and Indian tourists, predicting continued growth into 2025. -- 2025-01-28

PM Paetongtarn to Discuss Thai Tourism Safety with Xi in Beijing File photo. Courtesy: Xinhua/Ding Haitao Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra is set to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping next week to discuss tourist safety in Thailand. Her visit to Beijing, scheduled for February 5-8, aims to reassure Chinese tourists concerned about recent safety issues linked to a high-profile human trafficking case involving a Chinese actor near the Thai-Myanmar border earlier this month. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350119-pm-paetongtarn-to-discuss-thai-tourism-safety-with-xi-in-beijing/

File photo. Courtesy: Xinhua/Ding Haitao Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra is set to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping next week to discuss tourist safety in Thailand. Her visit to Beijing, scheduled for February 5-8, aims to reassure Chinese tourists concerned about recent safety issues linked to a high-profile human trafficking case involving a Chinese actor near the Thai-Myanmar border earlier this month. PM Paetongtarn plans to ask for China's assistance in dispelling safety rumors about Thailand. She will also address concerns regarding rampant call center scams in neighboring countries, often targeting Chinese nationals. Chinese tourists remain crucial for Thailand's tourism industry, making up 6.7 million out of 35.5 million visitors in 2024. The tourism sector is vital for Thailand, contributing about 12% to its GDP and nearly a fifth of local jobs. To boost safety, PM Paetongtarn has instructed law enforcement to crack down on these call center gangs. These call center scams have flourished across Southeast Asia, especially in Laos, Cambodia, and Myanmar. Many scams are operated by Chinese fugitives who fled their home country in 2020 after a crackdown, settling in Myanmar regions outside government control. -- 2025-01-28

Chulalongkorn University boosts AI collaboration with Cambodia By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Chulalongkorn University (CU) is seeking to enhance its academic collaboration with Cambodia, focusing on a future driven by artificial intelligence (AI). Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350118-chulalongkorn-university-boosts-ai-collaboration-with-cambodia/

Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Chulalongkorn University (CU) is seeking to enhance its academic collaboration with Cambodia, focusing on a future driven by artificial intelligence (AI). A delegation led by university president Wilert Puriwat recently met with Cambodian Minister of Education, Youth and Sports, Hang Chuon Naron, in Phnom Penh. Minister Naron, a CU alumnus, was accompanied by 10 other CU alumni from Cambodia and expressed his appreciation for the university’s role in advancing Cambodian education. Naron, who earned a PhD in Educational Administration from CU in 2018, noted that he applied his academic insights to a successful Cambodian school reform project. Prof Wilert emphasised that the visit aimed to strengthen ties between CU and Cambodia for future academic development, with a focus on integrating AI technology into education. The academic cooperation is intended to benefit both non-degree and degree-seeking individuals, extending its reach beyond students to the wider public. The initiative aims to enhance the educational system through the use of AI technology. Prof Wilert mentioned that CU has partnered with Google Cloud to create an AI tool named Chula’s Generative AI Environment for Nurturing Intelligence and Education, also known as ChulaGenie, and plans to share this technology with Cambodia. “We cannot deny that AI has become an important part of our daily lives. It’s important that people understand and know how to use AI in educational work and daily lives.” Naron highlighted that the Institute of Technology of Cambodia (ITC) has begun integrating AI into its curriculum, including courses on cybersecurity and software engineering. AI is also utilised to assist teachers in Cambodia with creating lesson plans, presentations, and assessments. “I’m grateful that Chulalongkorn has considered collaborating with Cambodia at higher education and school levels.” The CU delegates also visited ITC to observe AI-related learning and exchange ideas with Director General Po Kimtho, a CU alumnus with a master’s degree in Electronics and Communications Engineering. “CU has made our vision clear to be a global Thai university, delivering life-changing values, innovative wisdom mastery, and philanthropic spirit.” Princess Nina Norodom, who holds a master’s degree in Communication Arts from CU, shared her positive experience at the university and maintains connections with her peers and professors. Prof Wilert also mentioned plans to establish a CU alumni association in Cambodia, reported Bangkok Post. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-28

Thai singer arrested for promoting online gambling By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Dailynews Yesterday, January 27, cyber police apprehended a well-known singer with 200 million YouTube views for promoting online gambling. The 27 year old singer admitted to enticing others to engage in online gambling for monetary gain. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350117-thai-singer-arrested-for-promoting-online-gambling/

Picture courtesy of Dailynews By Bright Choomanee Yesterday, January 27, cyber police apprehended a well-known singer with 200 million YouTube views for promoting online gambling. The 27 year old singer admitted to enticing others to engage in online gambling for monetary gain. The cyber police, led by Police Colonel Apirak Champarsi, contacted Chatatorn, who is known by his stage name Oil Saengsarn, following an investigation. The police discovered his Facebook account, boasting over 400,000 followers, was used to promote online gambling through advertisements and links. Police Major General Chatchapandakarn Klaiklueng ordered a thorough investigation, which led to Chatatorn’s confession. He admitted to the allegations, stating that he was approached to advertise the online gambling website due to the lucrative income promised. He posted the advertisements and links in his Facebook stories, hoping to earn rewards for driving traffic to the gambling site. Chatatorn is now facing legal charges, filed by the police, as the case proceeds to the district court. The police plan to extend the investigation to include other related parties, reported KhaoSod. Pol. Maj. Gen. Chatchapandakarn highlighted the seriousness of online gambling promotion, pointing out that offenders face both imprisonment and fines. He also warned the public to exercise caution when using social media and to be wary of such advertisements. He emphasised that both those promoting and participating in online gambling are not victims but lawbreakers. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-28

Rogue riders spark outrage as Phuket police face backlash By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Yutthaphong Nalak / Facebook via The Phuket News Kamala Police are feeling the heat after a viral video exposed a group of foreign motorcyclists speeding past a checkpoint without stopping. The 1-minute-and-17-second clip, widely shared on platforms like Phuket Hod Jang’s Facebook page, shows reckless riders blatantly ignoring traffic officers on the Patong-Kamala Road. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350116-rogue-riders-spark-outrage-as-phuket-police-face-backlash/

Photo courtesy of Yutthaphong Nalak / Facebook via The Phuket News By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Kamala Police are feeling the heat after a viral video exposed a group of foreign motorcyclists speeding past a checkpoint without stopping. The 1-minute-and-17-second clip, widely shared on platforms like Phuket Hod Jang’s Facebook page, shows reckless riders blatantly ignoring traffic officers on the Patong-Kamala Road. The video reveals one motorcyclist weaving past officers before accelerating towards Patong. Moments later, other members of the group follow suit, speeding through the checkpoint without hesitation. The footage has sparked a wave of criticism online, with many calling for immediate police action. “If you encounter this, it’s a big deal. It causes trouble for drivers to the fullest extent,” said the original post on Phuket Hod Jang. It added that the Kamala Police Chief vowed to scrutinise vehicle documentation more closely and prevent further incidents. Netizens voiced their frustration, with some pointing to the dangers posed by such behaviour. “Every day, I wait for these reckless drivers to speed and risk hitting people. The police need to confiscate these vehicles.” Another user slammed the checkpoint’s lack of resources, stating, “Kamala checkpoint has too few officers. They can’t handle these foreigners.” The incident has reignited debates around road safety and Phuket’s growing tourist influx, particularly in bustling areas like Patong and Kamala. Critics also blamed the government’s visa-free policy, arguing it contributes to the rising number of reckless foreign drivers, reported The Phuket News. In response, locals demand a stronger police presence and greater accountability to ensure public safety. The Kamala Police Chief has promised to ramp up enforcement, urging residents to report any instances of dangerous driving. For now, Phuket’s roads remain a battleground between safety and unchecked chaos. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-28

Khon Kaen fish dispute leads to fatal shooting By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A dispute over a fish led to a tragic incident in Khon Kaen, where a 63 year old man fatally shot his 41 year old nephew, following a disagreement about the fish being cooked without permission. The police have charged Sangha with intentional manslaughter. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350115-khon-kaen-fish-dispute-leads-to-fatal-shooting/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod By Bright Choomanee A dispute over a fish led to a tragic incident in Khon Kaen, where a 63 year old man fatally shot his 41 year old nephew, following a disagreement about the fish being cooked without permission. The police have charged Sangha with intentional manslaughter. Yesterday, January 27, reports emerged of a shooting incident that occurred the day before at a residence in Ban Nong Wa, Moo 3, Yang Kham subdistrict, Nong Ruea district, Khon Kaen province. At the scene, Yuttana was found dead, having been shot in the back with a homemade gun, with the bullet lodged inside. The investigation revealed that Sangha, the uncle, and Yuttana, the nephew, lived in the same house. The argument arose when Sangha became upset that Yuttana had cooked a fish that Sangha had bought, without informing him. According to Darunee, a 54 year old witness, the pair argued at midday, which escalated into a physical altercation that required intervention from relatives and neighbours. Later in the evening, as Yuttana sat with his back to Sangha, the latter, still harbouring anger, retrieved a homemade gun from the forest and shot his nephew in the back, causing him to fall forward. Sangha then fled to a field hut. Police from the Nong Ruea Police Station later apprehended Sangha after he sought assistance from the village head to surrender. Police Colonel Prateep Penyawat of the Nong Ruea Police Station disclosed that Sangha was taken to the scene to reenact the incident as part of his confession. In the afternoon, a lawyer was present during the questioning by investigators, reported KhaoSod. Sangha now faces charges of intentional manslaughter and possession of an unlicensed firearm, with the case set to be presented to the Khon Kaen Provincial Court. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-28

Fatal shooting at Nan land reform office leaves two dead By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Matichon In the office of the Nan Provincial Land Reform, a shooting incident resulted in one fatality and one critical injury. The event unfolded yesterday, January 27, when a disagreement escalated. Police Lieutenant Colonel Wanatpong Santiphongsathorn and Police Major Danuwat Kittiyos led a team to the scene after being notified. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350114-fatal-shooting-at-nan-land-reform-office-leaves-two-dead/

Picture courtesy of Matichon By Bright Choomanee In the office of the Nan Provincial Land Reform, a shooting incident resulted in one fatality and one critical injury. The event unfolded yesterday, January 27, when a disagreement escalated. Police Lieutenant Colonel Wanatpong Santiphongsathorn and Police Major Danuwat Kittiyos led a team to the scene after being notified. The tragedy occurred on the second floor of the Nan Provincial Land Reform office. The man was identified as 50 year old senior surveyor, Kijja, who served as Director of the Technical and Mapping Division. He was shot five times in the torso. Nearby, 46 year old skilled surveyor, Naruebet, lay critically injured with a gunshot wound to his right temple. A 9mm firearm was found beside him, along with five spent casings. He was rushed to Nan Hospital but later succumbed to his injuries. Witness accounts describe that the shooter called Kijja over to his desk, located opposite, before opening fire. Kijja collapsed after being struck by five bullets. The gunman then turned the gun on himself. Phrit Praphasanobol, the Nan Provincial Land Reform officer, revealed that he was working in a building opposite during the shooting. He heard five consecutive gunshots and rushed over to find many staff fleeing the building, reported KhaoSod. While the motive is suspected to be external and unrelated to work, some staff mentioned frequent arguments between the two people over work issues. Further detailed investigations by the police are underway. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-28

Police Arrest 25 in Bangkok, Seize Weapons in School Violence File photo for reference only Between January 20th and 26th, the Metropolitan Police arrested 25 youths, mostly students, and seized a large cache of weapons during raids across nine locations in Bangkok. The confiscated items included 11 home-made pistols, 8 pen guns, ammunition, and 35 knives. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350031-police-arrest-25-in-bangkok-seize-weapons-in-school-violence/

File photo for reference only Between January 20th and 26th, the Metropolitan Police arrested 25 youths, mostly students, and seized a large cache of weapons during raids across nine locations in Bangkok. The confiscated items included 11 home-made pistols, 8 pen guns, ammunition, and 35 knives. Pol Col Sitthichai Srisophacharoenrat, deputy commander of the 4th division of the Metropolitan Police Bureau, announced that the raids aimed to prevent street violence between rival student groups. He noted a decrease in student violence over recent years due to proactive police engagement with schools and parents. Despite this progress, Pol Col Sitthichai expressed concern that some students remain influenced by seniors who encourage them to protect their institutions' honor through physical confrontations. -- 2025-01-27

Thailand's Exports Hit Record High, Tourism Set for Lunar New Year File photo for reference only Thailand's export sector soared to a new high in 2024, reaching a staggering $300.5 billion, marking a 5.4% rise from the previous year. December alone saw an impressive growth of 8.7%, marking the sixth straight month of expansion. This record was achieved largely thanks to strong demand from key markets like the US, China, Japan, and the EU, as well as emerging areas such as South Asia, the Middle East, and Russia. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350030-thailands-exports-hit-record-high-tourism-set-for-lunar-new-year/

File photo for reference only Thailand's export sector soared to a new high in 2024, reaching a staggering $300.5 billion, marking a 5.4% rise from the previous year. December alone saw an impressive growth of 8.7%, marking the sixth straight month of expansion. This record was achieved largely thanks to strong demand from key markets like the US, China, Japan, and the EU, as well as emerging areas such as South Asia, the Middle East, and Russia. Looking ahead, the Ministry of Commerce predicts a 2-3% rise in exports for 2025. This optimism is fueled by global economic stability, low inflation, and a shift in production bases to ASEAN, including Thailand. Soft Power initiatives promoting Thai culture globally are also expected to play a role. Despite these positive trends, challenges loom, particularly geopolitical tensions and trade policy uncertainties. In response, Commerce Minister Phichai Naripthaphan plans a visit to the US in February to discuss potential tariff changes and strengthen trade ties. As the Lunar New Year approaches, Thailand is gearing up for a tourism boom, expecting over 4 million tourists, including 700,000 from China – a 22.6% increase from last year. Airports of Thailand (AOT) has stepped up preparations for the influx, with over 24,500 flights anticipated between January 24 and February 2. To ensure efficient operations, AOT has bolstered staff at key points, including immigration and security. Enhanced safety measures are also in place, addressing bird and wildlife hazards. Travelers are encouraged to arrive early to avoid peak period delays, and a 24-hour contact center is available to assist throughout the festive period. -- 2025-01-27

Foul play suspected in death of Thai intern in Japan By Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ Kiattisak Somniyam The family of a missing Thai student intern is calling for further investigation into his death, suspecting foul play after his body was discovered in a Thai restaurant in Japan. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350029-foul-play-suspected-in-death-of-thai-intern-in-japan/

Photo via Facebook/ Kiattisak Somniyam By Petch Petpailin The family of a missing Thai student intern is calling for further investigation into his death, suspecting foul play after his body was discovered in a Thai restaurant in Japan. The student’s aunt, Nannaphat Tanming, urged Thai news agencies to report the death of her 25 year old nephew, Kornnaphat “Nat” Promsung, to attract the attention of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other relevant departments to conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding Nat’s death. Nannaphat revealed that Nat completed his higher vocational certificate at Loei Technical College before joining a three-year internship programme in Hiroshima, Japan. He worked for the Chuzosho company at the Hiroshima Sokeisai Cooperative Society Centre. Nat was scheduled to return to Thailand on April 22 this year, but he unexpectedly went missing about a month ago. Before his disappearance, Nat and his colleagues held a new year party at their dormitory on December 21. Following this, Nat and ten of his colleagues continued the celebrations at a Thai restaurant located in the city, approximately 50 kilometres from his workplace. Nat shared pictures of the party with his family via the Line application and livestreamed the event on his social media account. He remained in contact with his girlfriend until 2am Thai time, after which he lost contact with everyone. Restaurant owner’s ignorance The following morning, Nat’s girlfriend contacted his colleagues and friends in Japan. They informed him that Nat disappeared during the party. Despite searching for him, they found no trace of him. Initially, they assumed he returned to the dormitory before them, but he did not. Nat’s company, along with officials filed a missing person report with the police and sought assistance from Japan’s labour ministry, but no information about Nat was uncovered. The family also checked with hospitals across the country, but there was no record of Nat being involved in any accidents or receiving medical treatment. Tragically, the family was informed last week that Nat’s body was discovered at the Thai restaurant where the party took place. Upon contacting the restaurant owner, the family was told that the owner had no knowledge of Nat’s death. In a subsequent conversation with the restaurant owner via Facebook, the family sought further details, but their hopes were dashed by the owner’s response… “Actually, this death had nothing to do with the restaurant. We did not monitor who came in and out of our place. This is causing issues for the restaurant, and I now have to answer the police’s questions. I tried searching for him too, but even the friends he came with had no idea. How could I possibly know about him?” Nannaphat asserted that she and her family were confident Nat was murdered and his body concealed within the restaurant. They called on Thailand’s Prime Minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to assist in uncovering the truth. The family is urging authorities to review CCTV footage from the restaurant and surrounding areas to determine the events leading to Nat’s death. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-27

Nationwide Face Mask Distribution Begins to Combat Air Pollution File photo for reference only Starting tomorrow, the Ministry of Public Health will begin distributing over 8 million face masks across the country to tackle harmful PM 2.5 dust pollution. Vulnerable groups, including the elderly and those in high-risk areas, known as orange and red zones, can collect masks from public hospitals and health offices. Each person is eligible to receive one mask per day for up to seven days. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350028-nationwide-face-mask-distribution-begins-to-combat-air-pollution/