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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. The ministry emphasizes there is no mask shortage, with ample supplies of both surgical and N95 masks available. Citizens are advised to monitor air quality levels before heading outdoors and to wear a mask if pollution levels are high to safeguard their health. -- 2025-01-27

Thailand Air Force Chooses Gripen Jets Over F-16s for Better Benefits File photo for reference only The Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) has announced its decision to purchase Swedish Gripen jets instead of the US-made F-16 aircraft, citing greater benefits for Thailand. This decision, revealed by Air Chief Marshal Punpakdee Pattanakul, aims to replace the ageing F-16 jets currently stationed at Wing 1 in Nakhon Ratchasima. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350026-thailand-air-force-chooses-gripen-jets-over-f-16s-for-better-benefits/

File photo for reference only The Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) has announced its decision to purchase Swedish Gripen jets instead of the US-made F-16 aircraft, citing greater benefits for Thailand. This decision, revealed by Air Chief Marshal Punpakdee Pattanakul, aims to replace the ageing F-16 jets currently stationed at Wing 1 in Nakhon Ratchasima. The selection process involved evaluating 22 different jets before narrowing it down to the Gripen and a new model of the F-16. The Gripen was chosen for its better offer of technology transfer and offsets, which are expected to bring long-term benefits to Thailand. Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai backs this decision, now affirming the Gripen jets meet the air force's needs while aligning with the government's policies to avoid heavy financial burdens. The Royal Thai Air Force finds confidence in the decision due to their familiarity with Gripen jets, potentially reducing training and maintenance costs. Currently, they are discussing details with Sweden to finalize the agreement, which is slated for Cabinet approval by April or May. Next month, tests will be conducted to evaluate the Gripen's capability for short-runway takeoffs and landings. This is pivotal, as the Swedish air force notes the jet needs at least 400 meters for takeoff and 500 meters for landing. -- 2025-01-27

Dutchman offers help for Thai cat injured by harpoon in Buriram By Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ บ้านหมอแค็ปรักษาสัตว์สตึกและโรงพยาบาลสัตว์สตึก A Dutch man expressed concern over a Thai cat in the Isaan province of Buriram that was severely injured with a harpoon. He also attempted to provide financial support to the animal and its owner. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350025-dutchman-offers-help-for-thai-cat-injured-by-harpoon-in-buriram/

Photo via Facebook/ บ้านหมอแค็ปรักษาสัตว์สตึกและโรงพยาบาลสัตว์สตึก By Petch Petpailin A Dutch man expressed concern over a Thai cat in the Isaan province of Buriram that was severely injured with a harpoon. He also attempted to provide financial support to the animal and its owner. The female cat, Kuay Tiew, was shot with a harpoon last week. Her owner, 68 year old Narong Sookprasert, sought help from the Wang Kood Rescue Foundation instead of a veterinarian, as he could not afford the cost of Kuay Tiew’s treatment. The harpoon struck Kuay Tiew in her right eye and pierced through her front right leg. The severity of the injury has left her at risk of blindness. Narong and others in the community believe the attacker is a member of a minority group that holds the belief that consuming cat meat during the cold season helps keep their bodies warmer than other types of meat. Officers at Chum Saeng Police Station pledged to bring justice to Kuay Tiew by arresting the perpetrator. However, no progress has been reported, and the suspect’s identity, along with that of other members of the group holding these beliefs, remains unknown. Fortunately, no further attacks on cats in the community have been reported since Kuay Tiew’s case. Kuay Tiew received treatment at Dr Cap House Animal Clinic, owned by veterinarian Kutcharat Tiangphadung. Updates shared on the clinic’s official Facebook page confirmed that the harpoon was successfully removed. Best wishes from abroad Unfortunately, due to the severity of the infection, the vet had to remove Kuay Tiew’s eye to ensure her safety. Her condition has since improved, and her wounds are healing. Kuay Tiew is now able to eat and no longer requires feeding assistance. Although Kuay Tiew has no complications, she has been found to have anaemia. The vet believes this likely developed after the injury. However, it is not considered life-threatening or a cause for concern at this stage. A thorough health check revealed that Kuay Tiew does not have feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) or feline leukaemia virus (FeLV). The vet has assured that Kuay Tiew will be able to return home within two to three days. Following a report on Kuay Tiew’s story by The Thaiger, a Dutchman, who wishes to remain anonymous, contacted the publication via email, expressing his desire to support Kuay Tiew. The Dutchman, along with The Thaiger’s editorial team, attempted to establish contact with Kuay Tiew’s owner and the veterinarian. In a recent email update to The Thaiger, the Dutchman stated that he contacted Narong and his son, but a language barrier prevented effective communication. The Dutchman subsequently contacted the clinic and offered financial support, but the vet reportedly declined. It remains unclear whether the locals managed to raise funds for Kuay Tiew or whether the vet took on the case herself. Nonetheless, Kuay Tiew received excellent care at the clinic and will soon return to her family home. The Dutchman expressed his hope that the attacker would be apprehended swiftly and wished Kuay Tiew a safe and happy life. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-27

Thai Bolt driver fakes heroic tale for social media fame By Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ อีซ้อขยี้แหลก A Thai Bolt driver issued an apology after faking and sharing a heartwarming story about himself and an imaginary intoxicated passenger on social media in a bid to gain attention and be seen as a hero. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350023-thai-bolt-driver-fakes-heroic-tale-for-social-media-fame/

Photo via Facebook/ อีซ้อขยี้แหลก By Petch Petpailin A Thai Bolt driver issued an apology after faking and sharing a heartwarming story about himself and an imaginary intoxicated passenger on social media in a bid to gain attention and be seen as a hero. Last week, a Facebook user named Mook Kanokwan posted in a Facebook group called “Bolt Driver Thailand Motorcycle (Only)” to share a touching tale involving herself and a Bolt driver identified as Chokchai Wailew. She claimed that she had not yet paid the fare and wanted to thank the driver for his kindness. According to her post, she had been very intoxicated and booked a Bolt ride to return home. The driver, she said, stopped at a convenience store to buy her a refreshing towel and looked after her. He even advised her not to travel alone while drunk. Upon arrival at her condominium, the woman said the driver told her… “Don’t forget to love yourself, OK?” She said his message was touching and she felt grateful for what he had done for her. She did not know if she would find this kind of driver anywhere else. She hoped he was in the group so she could pay the fare and thank him officially. Chokchai later commented on the post, drawing widespread admiration from other Bolt drivers in the group. Many praised his kindness and held him up as a model for other drivers. Turns upside down However, some social media users found the story implausible, particularly the claim that the driver forgot to collect the fare. Upon further investigation, netizens discovered that the account belonging to “Mook Kanokwan” had a URL that referenced the name “Mook Wailew,” suggesting a connection to Chokchai. A history of name changes on the account further fuelled suspicions, ultimately revealing that Chokchai fabricated the story to portray himself as a hero. Adding to the controversy, the Facebook page Esor News uncovered that Chokchai had a history of fraudulent behaviour and had even been blacklisted. Chokchai eventually admitted to inventing the story, confessing to Channel 8 that he hoped to gain attention, praise, and encouragement from social media users. He apologised for his actions and asked the public to stop delving into his past or harassing his family. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-27

New Hotel Act targets 500 unlicensed Thai hotels By Ryan Turner Drone photography of Centre Point Hotel Silom | Photo via Saad Ibrahem/Pexels The Tourism and Sports Ministry is set to propose a new Hotel Act specifically for small and medium-sized hotels, with the aim of registering over 500 unlicensed accommodations that currently cannot participate in the existing system. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350022-new-hotel-act-targets-500-unlicensed-thai-hotels/

Drone photography of Centre Point Hotel Silom | Photo via Saad Ibrahem/Pexels By Ryan Turner The Tourism and Sports Ministry is set to propose a new Hotel Act specifically for small and medium-sized hotels, with the aim of registering over 500 unlicensed accommodations that currently cannot participate in the existing system. Tourism Vice-Minister Jakkaphon Tangsutthitham reported that more than 90,000 small and medium-sized accommodations in Thailand do not qualify as hotel businesses under the current law. The ministry has previously consulted with stakeholders from the tourism and hospitality industries, including the Department of Provincial Administration, the Tourism Council of Thailand, the Thai Hotels Association (THA), and guesthouse operators, to discuss the revision of the Hotel Act. Although the revised bill is expected to reduce certain restrictions to support small and medium-sized hotels, Jakkaphon emphasised that safety remains a top priority. Operators are encouraged to upgrade their properties to meet new standards. In the south, for instance, certain small guesthouses are unable to register due to environmental impact assessments, while northern operators face limitations imposed by city planning laws. Organisations responsible for enforcing these laws will be involved in formulating the new Hotel Act to ensure its comprehensiveness. The draft regulation, proposed by the Tourism and Sports Ministry alongside the Interior Ministry, is anticipated to be discussed in Parliament in April. Thienprasit Chaiyapatranun, the president of the THA, expressed openness to legalising more accommodations but stated that this alone does not address the primary issue. Many hostels and guesthouses are constrained not by the existing Hotel Act but by environmental and town planning laws. Thienprasit pointed out that a revised Hotel Act cannot supersede these laws, and the definition of small and medium-sized hotels remains unclear from previous discussions. He also noted that numerous construction requirements for hotels have already been relaxed to accommodate smaller establishments. For example, even old four-storey shophouses in Yaowarat can be renovated due to reductions in required space. He suggested that the government should amend ministerial regulations to solve issues on a case-by-case basis, a strategy he believes is quicker than amending the Hotel Act, which could take years, reported Bangkok Post. Regarding tourism stimulus initiatives, Jakkaphon mentioned that the co-payment scheme for domestic tourism is slated for a June launch, offering 1 million privileges. The ministry plans to announce its strategy for the Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year 2025 on February 3, inviting public and private sector stakeholders to participate. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-27

Forest Fire Scorches Over 2,000 Rai on Phu Lam Yai Mountain File photo for reference only Nakhon Ratchasima officials are working tirelessly after a massive forest fire on Phu Lam Yai Mountain damaged over 2,000 rai of land. Aerial images highlight the extent of charred tree damage in the region. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350021-forest-fire-scorches-over-2000-rai-on-phu-lam-yai-mountain/

File photo for reference only Nakhon Ratchasima officials are working tirelessly after a massive forest fire on Phu Lam Yai Mountain damaged over 2,000 rai of land. Aerial images highlight the extent of charred tree damage in the region. On January 26, Deputy Governor Vichit Kitwirat, who leads the incident command center in Khon Buri district, detailed the fire's impact. The blaze affected areas spanning villages 4 and 9 in the Khon Buri Tai subdistrict, as well as Udom Sap subdistrict, Wang Nam Khiao district. Pirawat Theerawatana, the Khon Buri district chief, has coordinated a multi-agency team of 179 people, including local authority units, park rangers, and volunteers. This team has also included military personnel and police officers. Somkiat Puangkao, leading the Thap Lan forest fire control station, has implemented firebreaks to stop the spread and prepared areas for helicopter landings. While the fire is now extinguished, efforts continue to clear the burned zones and patrol to prevent a possible resurgence. The devastation hit forested highlands, sparing nearby homes and farmland. However, with half of the 4,000 rai forest affected, the landscape now shows large areas of blackened trees from aerial views. -- 2025-01-27

Thailand Boosts Transgender Health with 145.63 Million Baht Hormone Initiative File photo for reference only The Public Health Ministry in Thailand has devoted 145.63 million baht (US$4.32 million) to provide hormone medication for 200,000 transgender citizens. This initiative by the National Health Security Office aligns with the government’s commitment to marriage equality, ensuring both the physical and mental well-being of sexually diverse communities. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350020-thailand-boosts-transgender-health-with-14563-million-baht-hormone-initiative/

File photo for reference only The Public Health Ministry in Thailand has devoted 145.63 million baht (US$4.32 million) to provide hormone medication for 200,000 transgender citizens. This initiative by the National Health Security Office aligns with the government’s commitment to marriage equality, ensuring both the physical and mental well-being of sexually diverse communities. Deputy Government Spokesperson Anukool Pruksanusak emphasized the growing acceptance of diverse gender identities and the significant demand for hormone therapy to help transgender individuals align their physical appearance with their gender identity. With the 2025 budget approval, this funding aims to bridge health disparities by making necessary hormone therapy accessible, where previously, prohibitive costs and lack of medical oversight posed risks for many. Beyond hormone therapy, the National Health Security Office is committed to offering comprehensive medical and public health services to transgender citizens. These services include medical treatment, health promotion, disease prevention, and rehabilitation, ensuring equal healthcare access for all individuals. -- 2025-01-27

Thailand Gears Up to Welcome 770,000 Chinese Visitors During Lunar New Year File photo for reference only Thailand is gearing up for an influx of approximately 770,000 Chinese visitors during the upcoming Chinese New Year celebrations, a notable increase of 22.6% from last year. The period from January 24 to February 2 is set to see crowded airports and bustling city streets, with the Thai government taking significant measures to manage the increased tourism. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350019-thailand-gears-up-to-welcome-770000-chinese-visitors-during-lunar-new-year/

File photo for reference only Thailand is gearing up for an influx of approximately 770,000 Chinese visitors during the upcoming Chinese New Year celebrations, a notable increase of 22.6% from last year. The period from January 24 to February 2 is set to see crowded airports and bustling city streets, with the Thai government taking significant measures to manage the increased tourism. The deputy government spokeswoman, Sasikarn Watthanachan, highlighted the proactive steps being taken to accommodate these travellers. Key infrastructure, including the Department of Airports and Airports of Thailand (AoT), has been tasked with enhancing operations at major airports such as Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, and others across the country. The projected passenger traffic is set to rise dramatically during this time, with Suvarnabhumi Airport alone expected to handle a whopping 11,238 flights. To tackle the surge in visitors, AoT plans to boost staff presence in critical areas like immigration checkpoints and baggage claim zones. Enhanced multilingual services and increased staff availability are among the measures introduced to assist the influx of tourists seamlessly. Safety remains a priority as runways undergo stringent inspections, and measures to prevent incidents like bird strikes are implemented. On the security front, the Royal Thai Police is ramping up its presence. Police Colonel Worasak Phisitbunnakorn confirmed that increased patrols will be conducted in busy tourist hotspots to ensure safety. Special attention is being paid to potential fire hazards from traditional incense burning, which could exacerbate air pollution issues. Overall, Thailand is poised to handle the Chinese New Year festivities with efficiency and enthusiasm, ready to welcome visitors with open arms. -- 2025-01-27

Thailand Urges Local Action Against Alarming PM2.5 Pollution Crisis File photo for reference only Thailand is striving to tackle severe PM2.5 air pollution, with the National Health Security Office (NHSO) taking decisive action by urging local administrative bodies, including those in Bangkok, to mobilise resources. The NHSO has encouraged these organisations to utilise their local health security funds to combat the pollution, specifically recommending the purchase of protective masks for vulnerable populations. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350016-thailand-urges-local-action-against-alarming-pm25-pollution-crisis/

File photo for reference only Thailand is striving to tackle severe PM2.5 air pollution, with the National Health Security Office (NHSO) taking decisive action by urging local administrative bodies, including those in Bangkok, to mobilise resources. The NHSO has encouraged these organisations to utilise their local health security funds to combat the pollution, specifically recommending the purchase of protective masks for vulnerable populations. Dr Jadej Thammatacharee, Secretary-General of the NHSO, highlighted the escalating PM2.5 issue, posing significant health risks. The health minister, who leads the NHSO board, voiced concerns over public health impacts and has implored organisations to initiate anti-pollution projects with swift budget support from the Local Health Security Fund. In a bid to galvanise urgent action, the NHSO dispatched letters to key city leaders, including Bangkok's governor, proposing collaborative efforts to mitigate public health threats from the pervasive air pollution. Dr Jadej pointed out that redirecting existing projects towards pollution prevention could expedite solutions and protect at-risk groups through measures such as educational programmes and distribution of health-grade masks. Additionally, coordination with provincial health offices aims to ensure targeted support where it is most needed, while guidance and resources for local implementations are accessible through NHSO regional offices. In a comprehensive effort, the NHSO has also reached out to the Interior Ministry, seeking further cooperation to maximise efforts against PM2.5 pollution, signalling a nationwide push to safeguard Thai residents' well-being. -- 2025-01-27

Foreign motorcyclist leaves 4,000 baht for injured Phuket man, then flees By Petch Petpailin The foreigner's rental motorcycle. | Photo via Facebook/ Phuket Times ภูเก็ตไทม์ A Thai mother is calling for justice after a foreign motorcyclist collided with her son’s motorcycle on a road in Phuket and fled the scene, leaving only 4,000 baht in compensation. The Thai victim sustained injuries, and his motorcycle was damaged in the incident. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350014-foreign-motorcyclist-leaves-4000-baht-for-injured-phuket-man-then-flees/

The foreigner's rental motorcycle. | Photo via Facebook/ Phuket Times ภูเก็ตไทม์ By Petch Petpailin A Thai mother is calling for justice after a foreign motorcyclist collided with her son’s motorcycle on a road in Phuket and fled the scene, leaving only 4,000 baht in compensation. The Thai victim sustained injuries, and his motorcycle was damaged in the incident. The mother reached out to the Facebook news page Phuket Times to seek justice for her son, whose identity, along with hers, has not been disclosed. The page reported the matter today, January 24, stating… “A Thai mother is calling for justice! Her son was hit by a foreign motorcyclist, resulting in injuries and damage to his motorcycle. The foreigner handed over 4,000 baht and left the scene, claiming to be in a hurry. He even asked her son not to file a complaint with the police before disappearing.” The accident reportedly occurred on a road in the Ban Kuku community in the Ratsada sub-district of Phuket. The victim has filed a complaint with the police, but no updates have been provided. The incident sparked widespread discussion among Thai netizens, with many sharing similar experiences and expressing frustration with the perceived inaction by police. Comments included… “We have to admit that the officials cannot do anything about this.” “They just think money is everything, and they are not scared of the Thai police.” “My boyfriend was a victim in a similar case. The foreigner gave him 1,500 baht and fled.” “I had a similar experience just yesterday. A foreigner hit my vehicle and simply said ‘Sorry’ before speeding away.” “Thai laws seem to apply only to Thai people. Migrant workers and foreigners face no consequences for their wrongdoing, and Thai citizens are treated as second-class citizens.” “Thai police are always too busy to deal with these road issues.” One commenter recalled a similar incident from October last year, where a foreign woman crashed her car into a motorcycle in Phuket and left the scene, offering 3,100 baht in compensation. Although the case was widely reported by Thai media at the time, there has been no follow-up or resolution. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-27

Thai school director faces licence revocation over drug charges By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod The Secretary-General of the Teachers Council of Thailand has announced plans to revoke the professional licence of a school director arrested for drug trafficking. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350012-thai-school-director-faces-licence-revocation-over-drug-charges/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod By Bright Choomanee The Secretary-General of the Teachers Council of Thailand has announced plans to revoke the professional licence of a school director arrested for drug trafficking. The arrest occurred in Nong Song Hong district, Khon Kaen province, where police seized 369 methamphetamine tablets. The incident has raised significant concerns about the safety of educational institutions. Asst. Prof. Doctor Amonwan Veerathammo, Secretary-General of the Teachers Council, confirmed that the institution has already begun verifying the professional licences of the implicated educational administrator. The director possessed both a teacher’s professional licence, expiring on May 30 this year, and a school administrator’s licence, valid until June 25, 2027. The Office of the Basic Education Commission (OBEC) has initiated a fact-finding committee and temporarily dismissed the director from government service. The Teachers Council is advancing this case through its ethical review process and has quickly proposed to the Professional Standards Committee to suspend all professional licences of the person, without waiting for the investigation to conclude. Given the severity of the situation and the preemptive dismissal from government service, an official request for detailed facts has been sent to the relevant agency, urging an investigation committee to be appointed. Further actions will include a review by the subcommittee responsible for investigating ethical misconduct according to the Council’s regulations, last updated in 2010. If it is confirmed that the individual has indeed violated ethical standards, the Professional Standards Committee will be advised to permanently revoke all professional licences of the school director. Doctor Amonwan emphasised the critical responsibility of educational professionals, including teachers and administrators, to uphold exemplary conduct. The involvement of an educational leader in drug-related activities is a serious breach, necessitating immediate disciplinary measures, reported KhaoSod. School directors must earn the respect and trust of their students and the wider community, ensuring schools remain safe environments for all students. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-27

Man denies identity after alleged misconduct in Nonthaburi shop By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of dailynews A man accused of inappropriate behaviour towards a 12 year old girl and her friend in a convenience store in Nonthaburi has refused to provide personal details or fingerprints. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350010-man-denies-identity-after-alleged-misconduct-in-nonthaburi-shop/

Picture courtesy of dailynews By Bright Choomanee A man accused of inappropriate behaviour towards a 12 year old girl and her friend in a convenience store in Nonthaburi has refused to provide personal details or fingerprints. The incident occurred on January 25 on Chaeng Watthana Road in Pak Kret district, leading to police intervention after good samaritans detained the suspect. Yesterday, January 26, the mothers of the girls, 36 year old Duan and 30 year old Dao, accompanied their daughters to Pak Kret police station for further questioning and to identify the suspect. Despite this, the man remained uncooperative, not revealing his identity or allowing fingerprinting. The police decided to send him to Phra Nang Klao Hospital for physical and psychological evaluation before continuing with legal proceedings. Dao expressed her shock upon hearing about the incident involving her daughter, B, who was visiting her friend A. She noted her usual attentiveness towards her child and her trust in A’s family, making the occurrence in a crowded convenience store particularly surprising. Further police investigation involved the girls identifying the suspect. The man continued to deny the allegations, suggesting that the police review security footage for evidence, reported KhaoSod. Police are currently unable to charge the suspect without more information. They are working to contact the suspect’s relatives and plan to examine CCTV footage to gather evidence for the case. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-27

Bangkok taxi driver flees after attempted assault on passenger By Ryan Turner Photo via KhaoSod A woman found herself in an unknown room after taking a taxi ride home, where the driver allegedly attempted to assault her. The incident occurred on January 26, when the woman, who had been drinking with friends in the Ratchaprasong area, took a Toyota taxi to return to her condominium. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350008-bangkok-taxi-driver-flees-after-attempted-assault-on-passenger/

Photo via KhaoSod By Ryan Turner A woman found herself in an unknown room after taking a taxi ride home, where the driver allegedly attempted to assault her. The incident occurred on January 26, when the woman, who had been drinking with friends in the Ratchaprasong area, took a Toyota taxi to return to her condominium. Waking up in an unfamiliar room with the driver, the 42 year old woman realised he had removed her clothes and was attempting to assault her. She resisted and cried out for help, prompting the driver to flee. Police Lieutenant General Siam Boonsom, Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police Bureau, has tasked Police Colonel Monchai Arunsongsangdee, Superintendent of Taling Chan Police Station, with investigating the case after the woman’s report. Police were informed of the incident and proceeded to the location in a rental room on Chok Phra 8 Alley, Chok Phra Road, Khlong Chok Phra subdistrict, Taling Chan district, Bangkok. The woman reported the incident to the police, who are now working to apprehend the driver. Police have taken her statement and are following legal procedures at Taling Chan Police Station. The investigation remains ongoing as police continue their efforts to locate the suspect and ensure justice for the victim, reported KhaoSod. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-27