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File photo for reference only Thailand and the United States have resumed collaboration on health projects after the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) lifted a suspension. The suspension affected project activities and reimbursement approvals, which have now been resolved. Dr. Opas Karnkawinpong, Thailand's public health permanent secretary, announced that this cooperation is key to advancing Thailand’s public health initiatives, particularly in controlling communicable diseases, developing health systems, and enhancing medical personnel skills. This year, 31 non-research projects will benefit from the resumed funding arrangement, with a total budget of 279.1 million baht. Previously, a US executive order led the CDC to halt projects funded after January 24. However, activities related to HIV and tuberculosis prevention and treatment, funded by the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), were not affected. The CDC lifted the suspension on February 11 after a US District Court in Rhode Island decision on January 31. Dr. Opas noted that throughout the suspension, many projects persisted with help from various domestic and international sources, minimizing disruption. The ministry also used the time to boost internal capabilities, focus on medical research, and adopt technology to reduce costs and enhance efficiency, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-03-03

Celebrating Songkran: Thailand Bets Big on Boosting Tourism File photo for reference only The Thai government is planning a spectacular celebration for the upcoming Songkran festival, with an investment of 153 million baht. Known as the Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2025, this event is set to take place in Bangkok at Sanam Luang from April 11th to 15th. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has approved this funding in the hope of sparking a tourism boom. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353416-celebrating-songkran-thailand-bets-big-on-boosting-tourism/

File photo for reference only The Thai government is planning a spectacular celebration for the upcoming Songkran festival, with an investment of 153 million baht. Known as the Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2025, this event is set to take place in Bangkok at Sanam Luang from April 11th to 15th. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has approved this funding in the hope of sparking a tourism boom. The cabinet anticipates that the festival will attract around 800,000 visitors, both local and international, and generate about 3.2 billion baht in tourist spending. The initiative, led by the Tourism and Sports Ministry, aims to showcase the vibrant culture and spirit of Thai New Year, positioning Thailand as a prime destination for travelers during the festival season, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-03-03

Combating Call Scams: Thailand Mulls Cambodia Border Wall File photo for reference only In a bold move to combat cross-border crime, Thailand is considering constructing a wall along part of its boundary with Cambodia, a decision that reflects the struggle against illegal crossings and call-scam centres. These criminal organisations, often operated by Chinese gangsters in Cambodia and Myanmar, have been exploiting vulnerable populations, luring them with false job promises only to entrap them in scams. Recent raids in Poipet, Cambodia, saw the rescue of 215 individuals from such schemes, including 119 Thai nationals, exemplifying the gravity of the issue. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353415-combating-call-scams-thailand-mulls-cambodia-border-wall/

File photo for reference only In a bold move to combat cross-border crime, Thailand is considering constructing a wall along part of its boundary with Cambodia, a decision that reflects the struggle against illegal crossings and call-scam centres. These criminal organisations, often operated by Chinese gangsters in Cambodia and Myanmar, have been exploiting vulnerable populations, luring them with false job promises only to entrap them in scams. Recent raids in Poipet, Cambodia, saw the rescue of 215 individuals from such schemes, including 119 Thai nationals, exemplifying the gravity of the issue. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra's visit to the Aranyaprathet border sparked the cabinet's discussion of this potential barrier. Government spokesman Jirayu Houngsub outlined that while the idea was explored, further studies and discussions with Cambodian authorities are needed to envision its feasibility and impact. The Thai Defence Ministry previously suggested a similar construction along a well-trodden 55-kilometre stretch marked by natural crossings. Call-scam centres are notorious for their reach, victimising individuals even in distant West African nations. The crackdown intensified following the high-profile rescue of Chinese actor Wang Xing, who was manipulated into crossing borders under false pretenses. Despite successes in rescuing some exploited victims, many remain stranded in dire conditions as international collaboration seeks to facilitate their safe return home. Rangsiman Rome, deputy leader of the People's Party, has cautioned that the journey to dismantle these networks is far from over, with an estimated 300,000 people involved just in the Myawaddy area. As Thailand continues its fight against these criminal enterprises, the prospect of a border wall becomes an intriguing, albeit complex, tool in their arsenal, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-03

Thailand's MotoGP Future in Limbo Amidst Government Review Photo by Kittinun Rodsupan via AP The future of Thailand's MotoGP event is uncertain as Newin Chidchob, chairman of the Chang International Circuit, announced on Facebook that the government has decided not to extend the race contract beyond 2026. Newin expressed his disappointment, highlighting that MotoGP has been a significant contributor to the country's tourism and economy, generating over 5 billion baht during its latest three-day event. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353414-thailands-motogp-future-in-limbo-amidst-government-review/

Photo by Kittinun Rodsupan via AP The future of Thailand's MotoGP event is uncertain as Newin Chidchob, chairman of the Chang International Circuit, announced on Facebook that the government has decided not to extend the race contract beyond 2026. Newin expressed his disappointment, highlighting that MotoGP has been a significant contributor to the country's tourism and economy, generating over 5 billion baht during its latest three-day event. For seven consecutive years, Thailand has hosted this globally watched competition, with Newin offering the circuit free of charge despite incurring losses. However, the race's continuation hinges on government support, which is currently under consideration. In response to the announcement, Thai netizens voiced their dissatisfaction, with some speculating that the government may shift focus to hosting a Formula 1 event. The speculation extends to potential political motives, given Newin's ties to the Bhumjaithai Party and the supposed lack of alignment with Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s Pheu Thai Party. Yet, Prime Minister Paetongtarn denied any political interference, pledging that decisions would be based solely on the nation's best interests. The Ministry of Tourism and Sports is now tasked with reviewing the financial implications before presenting them to the Cabinet. Echoing these sentiments, the Governor of the Sports Authority of Thailand, Kongsak Yodmanee, assured that all relevant factors would be thoroughly assessed before a final decision is reached. As the debate ensues, fans and stakeholders anxiously await the government's final verdict, which could determine whether Thailand remains on the MotoGP map or pivots towards potentially securing an F1 race, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-03

Lopburi Quad Bike Crash: Scottish Expat's Death Highlights Road Dangers In a distressing accident on a Thai motorway flyover, a 62-year-old Scottish man tragically lost his life after his quad bike skidded and collided with a concrete barrier. The incident took place in Lopburi during the early hours of March 1, captivating the attention of both the local and expatriate communities. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353413-lopburi-quad-bike-crash-scottish-expats-death-highlights-road-dangers/

Heroic Officer Turns to Selling Fish for Family after Bombing Injury Picture courtesy of Nation TV In the aftermath of a catastrophic bombing incident, 36-year-old Sergeant Worawit Naratna, an explosives ordnance disposal officer from Narathiwat, has transformed his career from defusing bombs to selling fermented fish online. Following the tragic event in May last year that resulted in the loss of both his legs, Worawit, known by many as Puen, found himself at home in Phatthalung province, facing the new challenge of supporting his family through unexpected means. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353412-heroic-officer-turns-to-selling-fish-for-family-after-bombing-injury/

In a distressing accident on a Thai motorway flyover, a 62-year-old Scottish man tragically lost his life after his quad bike skidded and collided with a concrete barrier. The incident took place in Lopburi during the early hours of March 1, captivating the attention of both the local and expatriate communities. The man, a retired oil rig worker from Stirling, Scotland, had settled in Thailand over a decade ago and was well-regarded locally, notably as a member of the Rotary Club. His shocking death occurred when he was thrown from his vehicle, falling 30 feet to his demise on grassland below the elevated road. Police Lieutenant Sirirat Darunikorn of Ban Mi District Police outlined the grim scene, describing skid marks and the wreckage that remained as chilling evidence of the event. Responding officers discovered the man's body after following the trail of destruction to where his life had ended abruptly. The man resided in Thailand with his partner, maintaining connections with family in the UK, who have now been informed of the tragedy. The local Rotary Club expressed heartfelt condolences, recognising the man's contributions to social service efforts. Pictures courtesy of Asia Pacific Press via ViralPress This incident has reignited discussions about road safety in Thailand, a country notorious for alarming accident rates. With 32.7 traffic fatalities per 100,000 individuals—one of the highest globally—there is urgent government intervention underway to drastically reduce this figure by 2027. Contributing to this issue are inadequate road safety education and lax enforcement of traffic laws, which pose significant risks, especially to tourists unfamiliar with local driving conditions. As discussions continue, this unfortunate event highlights the pressing need for improvements to prevent further loss of life on Thailand's roads, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-03

Picture courtesy of Nation TV In the aftermath of a catastrophic bombing incident, 36-year-old Sergeant Worawit Naratna, an explosives ordnance disposal officer from Narathiwat, has transformed his career from defusing bombs to selling fermented fish online. Following the tragic event in May last year that resulted in the loss of both his legs, Worawit, known by many as Puen, found himself at home in Phatthalung province, facing the new challenge of supporting his family through unexpected means. Initially, the venture into selling a popular local delicacy garnered modest success, with 10 to 20 orders a day. However, as his story captured the heart of the public, demand skyrocketed, reaching as many as 1,000 orders daily. Despite the financial setbacks, with a low net monthly income due to loan deductions, Puen remained resolute in his determination to provide for his wife, Lalita, and their young son. The bombing incident not only left physical scars but also brought significant changes to family life. While prospects for stable employment with the Phatthalung Irrigation Project did not materialise, Lalita took on daily wage work to contribute to their income. Worawit's resilience is further supported by a German company that furnished him with prosthetic legs, enabling daily walking practice. Potential return to work with the police was assured, possibly involving relocation closer to home. The ferocity of his story and its spread online has bolstered both morale and sales for Worawit's new business. Supporters can continue to place orders through social media, ensuring that this inspiring figure remains a pillar of strength for his family despite adversity, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-03

Koh Samui Hotel Rates Spike 50% Post White Lotus Boost The White Lotus crew | Photo via Fabio Lovino/HBO, via Associated Press In a major twist, luxury hotel rates in Koh Samui have surged by up to 50% following the release of season three of "The White Lotus", filmed on the Thai island. The average daily rate has climbed past 10,000 baht per night, fuelled by increased interest in the picturesque setting showcased in the popular series. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353411-koh-samui-hotel-rates-spike-50-post-white-lotus-boost/

The White Lotus crew | Photo via Fabio Lovino/HBO, via Associated Press In a major twist, luxury hotel rates in Koh Samui have surged by up to 50% following the release of season three of "The White Lotus", filmed on the Thai island. The average daily rate has climbed past 10,000 baht per night, fuelled by increased interest in the picturesque setting showcased in the popular series. For newer accommodations, this revelation led to significant price hikes, while older hotels maintained rates between 8,000 to 9,000 baht per night. Rathawat Kuvijitrsuwan of JLL Hotels & Hospitality Group draws parallels with a previous tourism boom in Chiang Mai after "Lost in Thailand" was filmed there, yet notes that Koh Samui's smaller capacity and high-end focus differentiate it from Chiang Mai's mass tourism capability. Despite rising room prices, Koh Samui's hotel market has not reached the stratospheric levels recorded in Bangkok and Phuket. Last year, Bangkok’s luxury hotels saw a 49% ADR increase over their pre-COVID benchmarks. Meanwhile, Phuket eclipsed these figures with a dramatic 120% jump. While mid-range hotels also performed decently, budget options remain stagnant. Looking ahead, Rathawat expresses caution regarding the room rate growth on Koh Samui in the next few years, suggesting the market might stabilise after the rapid rise. He anticipates this year's growth to hover around a modest 2% to 3%. Thailand’s hotel sector continues to grapple with staffing challenges, particularly in recruiting front-office personnel, amidst a renewed wave of investor interest evidenced by record hotel transactions valued at 22.3 billion baht last year, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-03

Pattaya Awaits Decision on Fate of Controversial Waterfront Condo The abandoned waterfront condo | Photo via Pattaya News/Facebook In Pattaya, the abandoned waterfront condominium at Bali Hai Pier is at the centre of a legal storm, as Mayor Poramet Ngampichet addresses the growing unrest. The condominium's Certificate of Utilisation, issued on land previously classified as unoccupied, has come under scrutiny by the National Anti-Corruption Commission. This revelation has cast doubt on the legitimacy of the building's land title deed. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353410-pattaya-awaits-decision-on-fate-of-controversial-waterfront-condo/

The abandoned waterfront condo | Photo via Pattaya News/Facebook In Pattaya, the abandoned waterfront condominium at Bali Hai Pier is at the centre of a legal storm, as Mayor Poramet Ngampichet addresses the growing unrest. The condominium's Certificate of Utilisation, issued on land previously classified as unoccupied, has come under scrutiny by the National Anti-Corruption Commission. This revelation has cast doubt on the legitimacy of the building's land title deed. Central to the dispute is the Ministry of Interior’s earlier mandate, declaring the area a restricted zone and forbidding constructions on protected lands under Section 9 (2) of the Land Code. Consequently, the current land title deed could be deemed invalid. The Pattaya City is in limbo, eagerly awaiting the Land Department's final verdict on the possible revocation of the land title deed. Should the title be invalidated, the property would revert to public land status, paving the way for its demolition under the Public Land Preservation and Protection Act 2010. Conversely, a valid title means city officials must consider any alteration requests, ensuring adherence to the Building Control Act of 1979. This legal entanglement remains a point of high public interest, with both residents and officials on tenterhooks for a conclusive ruling on this decades-old controversy, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-03

Man Arrested in Furious Rock Attack on Vehicle in Phetchaburi Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A 34-year-old man was arrested yesterday after a heated altercation at a traffic light on March 2, where he allegedly hurled a rock at a woman's pickup truck in Phetchaburi province. The incident, not far from a police checkpoint, resulted in notable damage to the vehicle and stirred the local community. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353409-man-arrested-in-furious-rock-attack-on-vehicle-in-phetchaburi/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A 34-year-old man was arrested yesterday after a heated altercation at a traffic light on March 2, where he allegedly hurled a rock at a woman's pickup truck in Phetchaburi province. The incident, not far from a police checkpoint, resulted in notable damage to the vehicle and stirred the local community. Video footage of the event captured Panuwat, the accused, in the act, which rapidly circulated across social media platforms, igniting public fury. The footage demonstrated Panuwat's aggressive behaviour whilst revealing the shattered window of the truck. His actions have led observers to call on authorities for his prompt detention and prosecution. Responding to public outcry, Panuwat was swiftly apprehended near Khao Yoi and brought to the Khao Yoi Police Station. During his confession, he admitted his actions stemmed from frustration, claiming the woman's vehicle had cut in front of his motorcycle moments before. Consequently, Panuwat is facing charges of property damage and is set to undergo legal proceedings that align with Thai law. The incident underscores a broader societal concern regarding road rage and the escalating nature of such confrontations, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-03

Fishing Tragedy: Woman’s Desperate CPR Fails to Save Man Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Yesterday, in the tranquil Buriram province, a fishing trip turned tragic for 51-year-old Jim and her 21-year-old nephew. They discovered a body floating in a canal; their subsequent attempt at CPR brought more questions than resolutions. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353408-fishing-tragedy-woman’s-desperate-cpr-fails-to-save-man/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Yesterday, in the tranquil Buriram province, a fishing trip turned tragic for 51-year-old Jim and her 21-year-old nephew. They discovered a body floating in a canal; their subsequent attempt at CPR brought more questions than resolutions. At noon, near Buriram-Prakhon Chai road, 63-year-old Mee was pulled from a pond roadside, with no evident signs of assault. As the scene unfolded, emergency services arrived, piecing together the possibility that Mee had been deceased for two days, overwhelmed by the odour and swarm of flies surrounding him. Jim, who recounted that she learned CPR from television, and her nephew did their best to revive Mee, only to find themselves engulfed in shock. The revelation of Mee’s tragic situation was pieced together by his fishing companion, Wirasak, who suspected that Mee might have been caught in his fishing nets alone, leading to his unfortunate demise. This incident sheds light on the need for better CPR training and awareness, potentially saving lives in unexpected situations. As the community mourns, it underscores the unpredictability of life's quiet moments like a simple fishing day, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-03

Tragic Collision in Nakhon Ratchasima: Truck Brake Failure Kills One In an unfortunate event early today, a severe road collision occurred on Route 24, Chokchai-Det Udom Road, in the Nong Bunnak subdistrict of Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand. Around 7:19 am, a cassava-laden truck from Bangkok experienced brake failure, leading to a tragic accident involving multiple vehicles. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353406-tragic-collision-in-nakhon-ratchasima-truck-brake-failure-kills-one/

In an unfortunate event early today, a severe road collision occurred on Route 24, Chokchai-Det Udom Road, in the Nong Bunnak subdistrict of Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand. Around 7:19 am, a cassava-laden truck from Bangkok experienced brake failure, leading to a tragic accident involving multiple vehicles. The incident sadly resulted in the death of 55-year-old Thanakrit, a resident of Buriram, whose pickup truck was crushed under the overturned cassava truck. Three others sustained injuries and were swiftly taken to Nong Bunnak Hospital, thanks to prompt action by local rescue services. Police investigations suggest that the ill-fated truck lost control due to brake failure, colliding first with an unidentified 10-wheel truck, and subsequently overturning onto the pickup carrying a Khon Kaen license plate. The chaotic scene involved all vehicles travelling towards Chokchai district from Nong Ki district. The driver of the overturned truck has openly admitted to losing control after brake failure, leading to the cascade of events that resulted in this grievous mishap. As rescue teams work to clear the scene, the incident highlights the pressing need for stringent vehicle safety checks to prevent such tragic occurrences on Thailand's busy roads, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-03

Thai Teacher's Brave Escape from Alleged Assault Stuns Udon Thani Photo via Facebook/ Nachanok Intasang A shocking incident unfolded in Udon Thani's Ban Phue district, leaving many residents and online readers in disbelief. A Thai teacher, Nachanok Intasang, shared her terrifying encounter with a drunk photocopy shop owner who allegedly attempted to assault her after locking her inside the shop. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353405-thai-teachers-brave-escape-from-alleged-assault-stuns-udon-thani/

Photo via Facebook/ Nachanok Intasang A shocking incident unfolded in Udon Thani's Ban Phue district, leaving many residents and online readers in disbelief. A Thai teacher, Nachanok Intasang, shared her terrifying encounter with a drunk photocopy shop owner who allegedly attempted to assault her after locking her inside the shop. On the fateful day, Nachanok visited the shop to make copies. While waiting, she became suspicious of the owner's behaviour as he unexpectedly locked the door and claimed it was to shield her from bright light. Realising the man's state and suspecting foul play, Nachanok cleverly devised an escape by convincing the owner that her police officer boyfriend was waiting outside. The ruse worked, and she was able to flee, seeking refuge in a nearby hair salon. This encounter, documented in a video she posted on Facebook, has sparked widespread attention. While many have rallied in support, others controversially questioned her response. Unperturbed by criticism, Nachanok is determined to take legal action against the owner, providing her video as crucial evidence. This incident highlights significant issues around safety and victim-blaming, prompting discussions far beyond Udon Thani's borders. -- 2025-03-03

Passenger Sat by Deceased Woman: Qatar Airways Offers Support Picture courtesy of Saif Zaman ( আয়ান ), Unhsplash In a distressing turn of events, a passenger was seated next to a deceased woman for four hours during a Qatar Airways flight from Melbourne to Doha. The incident, unveiled by an Australian couple's report to their local TV station, criticised the airline's handling of the situation. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353403-passenger-sat-by-deceased-woman-qatar-airways-offers-support/

Picture courtesy of Saif Zaman ( আয়ান ), Unhsplash In a distressing turn of events, a passenger was seated next to a deceased woman for four hours during a Qatar Airways flight from Melbourne to Doha. The incident, unveiled by an Australian couple's report to their local TV station, criticised the airline's handling of the situation. According to the couple, the unforeseen event became their "worst experience," leading to widespread media attention. In response, Qatar Airways released a statement underscoring their sincere condolences to those impacted and affirmed their support for the deceased's family. The airline clarified that the crew acted with due diligence, providing alternative seating for other passengers and maintaining professional conduct. Qatar Airways assured that their staff are thoroughly trained for such emergencies, aiming to manage them respectfully. A comprehensive internal investigation corroborated that the crew adhered to industry standards, prioritising safety and dignity. Communicating compassionately, Qatar Airways is extending compensation and psychological aid to those affected, reinforcing their commitment to passenger welfare amidst unforeseen challenges, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-03