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Teen tragically shot near Surat Thani health centre By Bright Choomanee An 18 year old man was shot near a health centre in Surat Thani province, shocking his mother, who had recently spoken with him. Friends reported that the assailant drove a car against traffic, calling out to the victim before shooting him. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350005-teen-tragically-shot-near-surat-thani-health-centre/

By Bright Choomanee An 18 year old man was shot near a health centre in Surat Thani province, shocking his mother, who had recently spoken with him. Friends reported that the assailant drove a car against traffic, calling out to the victim before shooting him. The incident occurred at 3.39am today, January 27, when Police Lieutenant Chariyawut Thanchoen from Donsak Police Station received a report of the shooting near the Ban Nai Health Centre on the Nakhon Si Thammarat-Surat Thani Road in Pak Phraek district. He arrived at the scene with forensic officers and emergency services. The man, identified as Yotsakorn, was found wearing a blue long-sleeved shirt and denim shorts, with a gunshot wound to his left eye. A pocket knife was discovered nearby, along with a Honda Wave motorcycle registered in Nakhon Si Thammarat. Drug paraphernalia was found under the motorcycle seat. Initial investigations suggested that Yotsakorn was riding pillion on the motorcycle driven by his friend when they encountered the perpetrator. The assailant shot Yotsakorn from approximately 50 metres away, leaving a trail of blood along the road from the shooting point to where the body was found. The pair had reportedly been travelling on the Surat Thani-Nakhon Si Thammarat road when they met the assailant. The gunman fired at them before fleeing, causing the rider to attempt an escape. Yotsakorn’s body fell from the motorcycle at the location where it was discovered. Bunlert Thongdee, an emergency responder from Pak Phraek local administration, stated that upon arrival, locals were attempting to resuscitate Yotsakorn. He coordinated with the Donsak Hospital emergency team, who later confirmed the victim’s death. Fatal shooting Friends of the man recounted that they had been travelling from Surat Thani city towards Khanom district in Nakhon Si Thammarat. Upon reaching the scene, a car approached in the wrong direction. The driver lowered the window and called out, prompting Yotsakorn to turn his head, at which point the gunman fired. According to Yotsakorn’s uncle, Uncle Kob, the victim informed his mother earlier in the evening that he and a friend would be visiting Surat Thani city. At approximately 3am, Yotsakorn’s mother called him, and he mentioned he was on his way home. She later learnt from the police that her son had been shot, reported KhaoSod. The uncle added that the family had never known Yotsakorn to have conflicts with anyone. He was known for being hardworking, often delivering vegetables at Sichon market. He was accompanied by a friend, a conscript on leave, whom the family did not know well. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-27

Gender recognition bill considered for identity self-determination By Ryan Turner LGBTQ+ couple cries while waiting to sign their marriage certificates as the Marriage Equality Act takes effect |Photo via AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit The recently implemented Marriage Equality Bill is a significant step towards equal marriage rights for all, but many who registered their marriages last week are concerned that their gender title does not align with their gender identity, and are now advocating for a Gender Recognition Bill. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350004-gender-recognition-bill-considered-for-identity-self-determination/

LGBTQ+ couple cries while waiting to sign their marriage certificates as the Marriage Equality Act takes effect |Photo via AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit By Ryan Turner The recently implemented Marriage Equality Bill is a significant step towards equal marriage rights for all, but many who registered their marriages last week are concerned that their gender title does not align with their gender identity, and are now advocating for a Gender Recognition Bill. The bill, if passed, would allow individuals to select their gender title and offer a gender-neutral option for those who do not identify as strictly male or female. Atitaya Asa, a coordinator for a working group under the Transmasculine Network for Equality, highlighted the issues faced by transmen who are still addressed as ‘Miss’ in official documents, despite transitioning to the male gender. This misalignment causes various complications, particularly when travelling abroad, as immigration officers may question the accuracy of travel documents. Similar issues arise in banks and hospitals, where transmen are often grouped into female wards due to their gender title. The Gender Recognition Bill seeks to provide transmen with the right to self-determine their gender identity. Intersex individuals also face challenges, as explained by Nada Chaiyajit, a law lecturer from Mae Fah Luang University who identifies as trans-intersex. Intersex people are often subjected to irreversible surgeries to conform to binary gender norms, leading to mismatches between their gender identity and physical attributes. There is a call for an ‘X’ title for those who do not wish to be identified as Mr or Ms, to offer more freedom in expressing their gender identity. Stigma lingers In Thailand, the stigma surrounding intersex identities persists, with many attributing it to past life actions. Many are calling for more education on intersex identities and the diverse nature of sexual orientation. The UN Human Rights Council adopted a resolution to combat discrimination against intersex individuals, which Thailand is encouraged to follow. Four versions of the Gender Recognition Bill have been proposed, each allowing individuals to select their gender identity and title without needing medical certification. Some require court approval for subsequent changes. Somsri Jongpensukloet of the Social Development and Human Security Ministry supports self-determination, emphasising universal human rights. The bill has passed a public hearing but awaits Cabinet approval. Sutthichai Ngamchuensuwan, Dean of the Law Faculty at Prince of Songkla University, noted that self-determination is foundational in many countries’ laws, though it may raise issues such as age and the impact on other legal areas. Thai law, rooted in a binary gender system, must consider these implications as it allows for changes in gender identification, reported Bangkok Post. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-27

Bangkok's Air Crisis Escalates: Fourth Worst Globally for Pollution File photo for reference only Bangkok's air quality plummeted dramatically today, landing it the unenviable position of being the fourth most polluted city in the world, as reported by the Swiss monitoring entity IQAir. The city's Air Quality Index (AQI) rocketed to an alarming 188 by 9.40am, with the fine particulate matter PM2.5 spiking well above safety standards. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349794-bangkoks-air-crisis-escalates-fourth-worst-globally-for-pollution/

File photo for reference only Bangkok's air quality plummeted dramatically today, landing it the unenviable position of being the fourth most polluted city in the world, as reported by the Swiss monitoring entity IQAir. The city's Air Quality Index (AQI) rocketed to an alarming 188 by 9.40am, with the fine particulate matter PM2.5 spiking well above safety standards. The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) responded by designating 48 out of 50 districts as hazardous “red zones,” noting the PM2.5 particles had soared to an average of 88.4 microgrammes per cubic metre (µg/m³), starkly surpassing the official safe threshold of 37.5µg/m³. Nong Khaem district recorded the highest pollution level, with PM2.5 reaching 108µg/m³, and was closely followed by other districts like Khan Na Yao and Min Buri. Authorities have strongly advised residents to stay indoors, encouraging working from home and limiting outdoor activities to mitigate health risks. "This situation is extremely concerning, and we advise everyone to take necessary precautions," a City Hall representative stated. The pollution crisis extends beyond Bangkok. Chiang Mai, a key northern tourist city, also struggled with elevated pollution, ranked 23rd globally with an AQI of 127µg/m³. Regionally, Bangkok's pollution was exceeded by Ho Chi Minh City, listed as Southeast Asia's most polluted city today, while Phnom Penh and Hanoi also grappled with severe air quality issues. As the toxic air persists, public pressure mounts on Thai officials to combat the enveloping smog affecting both metropolitan and rural areas. For the present, retreating indoors with air purification seems the solitary defence against the hazardous skies. The PM2.5 crisis is exacerbated during Thailand's dry season from November to April, where stagnant air allows pollutants to accumulate. Agricultural practices, like burning crop residues, considerably aggravate the situation, especially in the northern provinces. The government's strategies include recommending remote work, limiting outdoor activities, and establishing checkpoints to monitor pollution. -- 2025-01-24

Pattaya Prepares for 5,400 US Navy Visitors This January File photo for reference only Pattaya is gearing up to host around 5,400 US Navy personnel from 27th to 31st January. As these sailors take a respite from their training exercises, local authorities, with the help of Chon Buri police, are implementing robust safety and traffic strategies. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349793-pattaya-prepares-for-5400-us-navy-visitors-this-january/

File photo for reference only Pattaya is gearing up to host around 5,400 US Navy personnel from 27th to 31st January. As these sailors take a respite from their training exercises, local authorities, with the help of Chon Buri police, are implementing robust safety and traffic strategies. Four US Navy ships will dock under the supervision of Sattahip and Laem Chabang police stations. Police Lieutenant General Yingyos Thepchamnong, Commissioner of Region 2 Police, alongside Luu Pham from the US Embassy, has finalised strategies to ensure safety and smooth operations for the influx. The collaborative plan involves additional officers patrolling, quick response units, and special operations teams dedicated to maintaining order. An online portal provides a directory of officers, ensuring quick aid if needed. Yingyos has urged local residents to work with police and report concerns via the 191 hotline. This effort not only underscores the respected US-Thailand relationship but also presents a chance for Pattaya’s businesses to thrive with the incoming international visitors. The US Navy's visits to Pattaya, part of ongoing Indo-Pacific exercises and goodwill missions, reinforce a longstanding, cooperative bond between the two countries. -- 2025-01-24

AMLO's Monitoring Snares Over 680,000 Fraudulent Mule Accounts File photo for reference only In an aggressive move against financial crime, the Anti-Money Laundering Office (AMLO) has heightened its crackdown efforts. Since December 2024, under the leadership of AMLO Secretary-General Tepsu Bowonchodidara, the office has set its sights on assets tied to drug trafficking, fraud, and online gambling. The initiative aims to prevent crime by monitoring over 72,031 individuals, leading to the closure of more than 680,000 mule accounts, thus safeguarding millions from fraudulent misuse. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349792-amlos-monitoring-snares-over-680000-fraudulent-mule-accounts/

File photo for reference only In an aggressive move against financial crime, the Anti-Money Laundering Office (AMLO) has heightened its crackdown efforts. Since December 2024, under the leadership of AMLO Secretary-General Tepsu Bowonchodidara, the office has set its sights on assets tied to drug trafficking, fraud, and online gambling. The initiative aims to prevent crime by monitoring over 72,031 individuals, leading to the closure of more than 680,000 mule accounts, thus safeguarding millions from fraudulent misuse. In drug-related investigations, AMLO processed 15 cases involving assets valued at over 510 million baht, with a significant portion seized or frozen. Notable among these was the Sureewan case, which saw 125 bank accounts frozen with assets approximately worth 505 million baht. Fraudulent activities saw a more extensive net cast, covering 15 cases with assets totalling more than 6,529 million baht. These include organised fraud operations by Sittra and associates, resulting in the confiscation of valuable land, buildings, and other assets worth 71 million baht. Meanwhile, proceeds from various investigations have continued to bring ill-gotten gains back under state control or to the victims’ aid through AMLO’s victim protection programme. In a calculated effort to dismantle online gambling rings, ten cases worth over 158 million baht were pursued, leading to the seizing of substantial assets tied to illicit operations. Noteworthy was the sand168.com probe, which saw 742 luxury assets seized, valued at 100 million baht. Ultimately, AMLO's efforts reflect a strategic push to reduce financial crime via targeted monitoring, asset seizures, and victim restitution. This robust approach highlights the critical need to curb the misuse of electronic transactions in mitigating crime impacts on society. -- 2025-01-24

Phuket Debates New Building Rules Amid Environmental Concerns File photo for reference only Phuket’s leaders and experts convened yesterday at the Royal Phuket City Hotel to discuss new environmental regulations set forth by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MNRE). The seminar, aptly titled "Unlocking the Phuket Environment: Crisis or Opportunity?", was organised by the Phuket Chamber of Commerce. Chamber President, Kongsak Khoopongsakorn, led the event, which was heavily attended by entrepreneurs and investors eager to comprehend the implications of the revised 2024 measures. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349790-phuket-debates-new-building-rules-amid-environmental-concerns/

File photo for reference only Phuket’s leaders and experts convened yesterday at the Royal Phuket City Hotel to discuss new environmental regulations set forth by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MNRE). The seminar, aptly titled "Unlocking the Phuket Environment: Crisis or Opportunity?", was organised by the Phuket Chamber of Commerce. Chamber President, Kongsak Khoopongsakorn, led the event, which was heavily attended by entrepreneurs and investors eager to comprehend the implications of the revised 2024 measures. Central to these discussions was the Cabinet's controversial decision to permit construction beyond the island’s longstanding 80-metre height restriction. This move is speculated to incite a surge in hilltop developments, significantly benefiting landowners with properties on higher ground. Town planner and keynote speaker Rakkiat Deetphin highlighted the dual focus of the new regulations: conserving natural beauty while supporting development in line with Phuket’s master plan. Amendments to various laws were explored, showing the impact on land use and zoning regulations. During the seminar’s opening, Kongsak stressed the vital role these measures play in Phuket's sustainable future. With 13 million visitors contributing to a staggering 480 billion baht in revenue in 2024, protecting natural resources is essential to maintaining the island’s allure. Interactive discussions allowed attendees to voice opinions on marrying development goals with environmental preservation. Set to take effect from December 13, 2024, the regulations aim to secure Phuket's future, balancing economic growth with environmental sustainability. -- 2025-01-24

Thai mother reunites with missing son after 5-year search By Petch Petpailin Photo via ThaiRath A Thai mother was reunited with her son yesterday, January 23, after he had been missing for five years, thanks to the efforts of the non-profit organisation, the Mirror Foundation. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349789-thai-mother-reunites-with-missing-son-after-5-year-search/

Photo via ThaiRath By Petch Petpailin A Thai mother was reunited with her son yesterday, January 23, after he had been missing for five years, thanks to the efforts of the non-profit organisation, the Mirror Foundation. The Mirror Foundation released a missing person poster of the 13 year old Thai boy, Turnpong “Aut” Dokbuaban, on December 24, 2019. He disappeared from Sub Jarun Villa in Soi Jaransanitwong 35, in the Taling Chan district of Bangkok, on November 16 of that year. Aut suffers from developmental delays and has a black birthmark on his right earlobe and a skin tag on his left ear. He reportedly left home to buy snacks and never returned. Aut’s mother, 38 year old Nareerat Maneedanjark, turned to social media platforms to search for her son. She followed up on every lead suggesting someone might be her missing son, but all attempts proved unsuccessful, often leading her to people who only resembled him. Despite the setbacks, Nareerat never gave up. She sought assistance from the Mirror Foundation, whose members added her son’s case to their genetic material database in case foul play had occurred. However, her DNA did not match with any deceased in the database. Nareerat held onto hope that her son was still alive and continued her search. This hope was rekindled when someone discovered a video of a man resembling Aut. The man in the video was working at a dog farm in the northern province of Nakhon Sawan and was seen training a dog. The Mirror Foundation facilitated communication between the farm owner and Nareerat, eventually confirming that the man in the video was indeed Aut. After five years of relentless searching, Nareerat and her son were finally reunited. According to ThaiRath, Aut had lived as a homeless person for a time and had become involved with drugs. He worked various jobs, such as collecting recyclables and working in construction, before starting his job at the dog farm two years ago. Nareerat, the farm owner, and the Mirror Foundation are set to discuss Aut’s next steps, including whether he will return to his studies or continue working. Their miraculous reunion serves as an inspiration to families with missing loved ones, encouraging them to remain hopeful. The foundation also advised the public to seek help from the police or organisations like theirs promptly when a family member goes missing, as fresh information and witnesses are crucial to a successful search operation. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-24

Thai man returns home to find his funeral after police error By Petch Petpailin Photo via Matichon A Thai man shocked his family when he arrived home in the Isaan province of Sakon Nakhon to find they were holding a funeral for him. The confusion stemmed from a police error in identifying a dead body. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349788-thai-man-returns-home-to-find-his-funeral-after-police-error/

Photo via Matichon By Petch Petpailin A Thai man shocked his family when he arrived home in the Isaan province of Sakon Nakhon to find they were holding a funeral for him. The confusion stemmed from a police error in identifying a dead body. Officers from Borrabue Police Station investigated the death of an unidentified man on January 18. The man was suspected to have died as a result of the cold weather. The officers concluded that the dead man was Phet, a resident of the Sawang Dandin district in Sakon Nakhon. The body was transferred to Khon Kaen Hospital for an autopsy to confirm the person’s identity and the cause of his death. The police, confident in their identification, informed Phet’s family of his supposed death and urged them to prepare for his funeral while the autopsy was conducted. On January 20, the family began funeral preparations at their home. Phet’s younger brother travelled to Khon Kaen province to follow up on the autopsy results. The brother recalled that Phet had a tattoo on his back, but the body in question bore no such tattoo. However, he doubted his memory and decided to wait for the autopsy confirmation. Unexpectedly, while the brother was still at the hospital, he received a call from his family informing him that Phet had just returned home, alive and well, though surprised to find his funeral underway. Phet’s father, 66 year old Kaysorn, told Sanook that Phet makes a living by collecting and selling recyclable waste. He often leaves home for several days to collect garbage. Before the police notification, Phet had travelled to Nong Bua Lamphu, Khon Kaen, Roi Et, and Maha Sarakham to collect recyclables. His prolonged absence led Kaysorn to believe that the dead man was his son. Kaysorn expressed his joy at finding his son alive. The funeral was subsequently transformed into a merit-making ceremony to dispel misfortune and bring blessings to Phet’s life. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-24

7 Thai suspects arrested for abduction and robbery in Chiang Mai By Petch Petpailin Photo via Chiang Mai News Yesterday, January 23, police arrested seven suspects, aged between 16 and 20 years old, for abducting a 25 year old woman from a condominium in the northern province of Chiang Mai, brutally assaulting her, and stealing her cash and mobile phone. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349785-7-thai-suspects-arrested-for-abduction-and-robbery-in-chiang-mai/

Photo via Chiang Mai News By Petch Petpailin Yesterday, January 23, police arrested seven suspects, aged between 16 and 20 years old, for abducting a 25 year old woman from a condominium in the northern province of Chiang Mai, brutally assaulting her, and stealing her cash and mobile phone. The 25 year old victim, Worrada, filed a complaint against seven suspects at Mae Ping Police Station. The incident occurred at around 9.30pm on January 16, when the gang confronted Worrada outside her condominium. Worrada explained that she listed her mobile phone for sale on the Facebook application. One of the suspects contacted her and expressed interest in purchasing the phone. They arranged to meet outside her condominium to complete the transaction. Upon meeting, four suspects restrained Worrada and demanded that she repay a debt of 6,600 baht. Worrada admitted that she owed the money but stated she was unable to pay it back, prompting the gang to physically assault her. Channel 7 reported that Worrada previously rented a dormitory while studying nursing in the province. However, she failed to pay a dormitory deposit of 6,600 baht to Worranan whom she shared the accommodation with. It was reported that she blocked Worranan’s contact details to avoid paying the debt. After the assault, the gang forced Worrada into an SUV and drove to a nearby ATM. The suspects coerced her into providing her debit card PIN and withdrew 10,000 baht from her account. Worrada was then taken to a community event venue, where two additional suspects were waiting. The group brutally beat her with iron rods and later abandoned Worrada at the Chiang Mai Bus Terminal. Before leaving, the suspects forced her to log out of her iCloud account on her iPhone and fled with her phone. Police identified the suspects as three women, one transgender woman, and one man, all aged between 16 and 20. It was revealed that the 18 year old transwoman had been previously charged with physical assault on three occasions. The seven suspects face charges including: Section 299 of the Criminal Law: Conspiring from at least three people to engaging in a physical assault. The penalty is imprisonment of up to one year, a fine of up to 20,000 baht, or both. Section 340 of the Criminal Law: Conspiring from at least three people to commit theft using violence. The penalty is life imprisonment or imprisonment from 15 to 20 years. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-24

Chinese duo nabbed in Phuket café lion cub photo scam By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Region 8 Police via The Phuket News Two Chinese nationals were arrested in Phuket after allegedly using lion cubs to lure tourists to The Glass House Cafe and Space, charging them for photo sessions with the animals. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349783-chinese-duo-nabbed-in-phuket-café-lion-cub-photo-scam/

Photo courtesy of Region 8 Police via The Phuket News By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Two Chinese nationals were arrested in Phuket after allegedly using lion cubs to lure tourists to The Glass House Cafe and Space, charging them for photo sessions with the animals. The café, located on Ratsada-Anusorn Road in Ratsada, has a history of similar wildlife abuse scandals, including last year’s notorious incident involving a cub named Nong Kiwi. Armed with a search warrant, Region 8 Police raided the café at 1.30pm on Wednesday, January 22. Inside, officers discovered a bustling crowd of customers interacting with three lion cubs brought in specifically for the business. The café charged 500 baht for five minutes with larger cubs and 1,000 baht for the smaller ones. Investigations revealed that the café is owned by a Chinese national who hired another Chinese individual as an interpreter, catering primarily to Chinese and other foreign customers. During the raid, police identified two suspects working at the café: 42 year old Bin Bin Cai and 38 year old Chen Hong. Both held valid passports but lacked work permits. Police have not confirmed if Chen is the same individual charged in last year’s scandal involving the lion cub Nong Kiwi. However, the pair now face charges of working illegally as foreign nationals without proper authorisation. The suspects were taken to Phuket City Police Station for questioning and further legal proceedings. Police confirmed that investigations are ongoing to uncover more details about the café’s operations and potential wildlife abuse, reported The Phuket News. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-24

Thai transwoman busted at Nonthaburi hotel for explicit content By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A Thai transgender influencer with nearly 30,000 followers on social media has been arrested for operating a secret group distributing explicit content. The 22 year old suspect reportedly confessed to running the scheme for two years, raking in tens of thousands of baht per month. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349782-thai-transwoman-busted-at-nonthaburi-hotel-for-explicit-content/

Photo courtesy of KhaoSod By Puntid Tantivangphaisal A Thai transgender influencer with nearly 30,000 followers on social media has been arrested for operating a secret group distributing explicit content. The 22 year old suspect reportedly confessed to running the scheme for two years, raking in tens of thousands of baht per month. Police Lieutenant General Trirong Phiwpaen, Commander of the Technology Crime Suppression Division (TCSD), revealed details of the arrest carried out by a specialised task force. The operation, led by Police Colonel Sarayut Junnawat and Pol. Col. Torsak Panklinput, followed an investigation into explicit material shared through a locked account on the X platform. According to police, Chakraphat promoted sample clips on her account and invited followers to join a private group for a fee of 260 baht. Members were granted access to continuous streams of explicit content. Police discovered over 300 paying subscribers and tracked the suspect through digital evidence. Armed with an arrest warrant issued by the Nonthaburi Provincial Court, officers apprehended Chakraphat yesterday, January 23, in a hotel parking lot in Pak Kret district, Nonthaburi province. During interrogation, the transwoman admitted to posting the clips and managing the subscription-based account. She also claimed that gambling networks had approached her to promote illegal stock trading links, which she declined. “This person used her online influence to profit from illegal activities. We are committed to cracking down on such offences.” Chakraphat now faces charges under Thailand’s Computer Crimes Act for uploading obscene material and operating a trade for explicit content. The transgender woman has been handed over to the police for further legal proceedings, reported KhaoSod. Police are warning the public to remain vigilant against similar schemes flourishing on social media platforms. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-24

Lawyer criticised for opposing equal marriage in Thailand By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Lawyer Thammarat Sarapanya has faced a wave of criticism following his comments on equal marriage, which he described as a violation of the universe’s laws. The remarks came after the new Marriage Equality Act, amending the Civil and Commercial Code, took effect yesterday, January 23. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349781-lawyer-criticised-for-opposing-equal-marriage-in-thailand/

Photo courtesy of KhaoSod By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Lawyer Thammarat Sarapanya has faced a wave of criticism following his comments on equal marriage, which he described as a violation of the universe’s laws. The remarks came after the new Marriage Equality Act, amending the Civil and Commercial Code, took effect yesterday, January 23. Thammarat expressed his views through his Facebook page “The Lawyer of Legality,” stating, “Equal marriage is a violation of the universe’s laws,” “Equal marriage is a union unable to produce children,” and “Souls waiting to be born can’t be born to equal marriage couples.” The post attracted widespread criticism from many who disagreed with his perspective. In response, popular media figure Kanchai Kamnerdploy addressed Thammarat with a social media post criticising the lawyer’s narrow-mindedness, reported KhaoSod. Thai embassies and consulates around the world prepared to kick off same-sex marriage registrations, following the Marriage Equality Act’s enactment. From January 23, same-sex couples will have the opportunity to register their marriages at any district office across Thailand and Thai embassies and consulates abroad. Karom Ponpornklang, deputy government spokesperson, announced on Monday, January 20, that the Department of Provincial Administration is set to support these registrations across 878 districts nationwide. The Marriage Equality Act was approved by the House of Representatives on March 27 last year, and by the Senate on June 18. It received royal endorsement and was published in the Royal Gazette on September 24, becoming effective 120 days later. The implementation of this law was celebrated nationwide, with over 1,800 same-sex couples registering their marriages on the first day. In Bangkok alone, 654 couples tied the knot, participating in ceremonies that marked a significant step toward equality. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra hailed the occasion, stating that all love will now be honoured by law in Thailand. Former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin also praised the milestone but acknowledged ongoing challenges in achieving full legal recognition and inclusiveness, particularly concerning family structures. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-24

Thai woman arrested for stealing 120,000 baht from Russian man in Pattaya By Petch Petpailin Photo via Amarin TV Police arrested a Thai woman for stealing 120,000 baht in cash and a mobile phone from a Russian victim in Pattaya on January 8. She confessed to spending most of the money on a holiday trip with her family. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349780-thai-woman-arrested-for-stealing-120000-baht-from-russian-man-in-pattaya/