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Advertisement signs advertised on electricity poles in Pattaya | Photo via Pattaya Mail Pattaya City officials have initiated a campaign urging residents and visitors to stop attaching signs or writing on public property, such as electrical poles and other municipal infrastructure. This movement aims to preserve the city’s cleanliness, orderliness, and aesthetic charm. Authorities have made it clear that anyone caught violating these regulations will be subject to legal action. This announcement has sparked significant discussion online, with many locals showing support while also raising concerns. A notable issue highlighted is the problem of election campaign signs, which are often seen obstructing views and posing potential safety hazards. A resident recounted to Pattaya Mail a near-miss traffic accident caused by a large obstructive sign, underscoring the gravity of the issue. Many have called for consistent enforcement, especially regarding political advertisements. There is a strong sentiment among the public that all unauthorised signage should be promptly removed and offenders fined, regardless of the sign's nature or purpose. Pattaya officials have assured the public of their commitment to implementing these regulations consistently and equitably. The goal is to ensure that public spaces remain tidy, safe, and inviting for everyone. The effectiveness of this campaign relies not only on the city's enforcement efforts but also on community cooperation in maintaining Pattaya’s visual appeal and safety. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-01

People’s Party Demands Probe into Chinese Student Visa Exploitation People's Party Deputy Leader, Wiroj Lakkhanaadisorn | Photo via Facebook/Wiroj Lakkhanaadisorn The People’s Party has called upon the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation to scrutinise international study programmes allegedly exploited by Chinese nationals for acquiring student visas to engage in illegal work in Thailand. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359416-people’s-party-demands-probe-into-chinese-student-visa-exploitation/

People's Party Deputy Leader, Wiroj Lakkhanaadisorn | Photo via Facebook/Wiroj Lakkhanaadisorn The People’s Party has called upon the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation to scrutinise international study programmes allegedly exploited by Chinese nationals for acquiring student visas to engage in illegal work in Thailand. Wiroj Lakkhanaadisorn, the party’s deputy leader, pointed to the March 28th collapse of the State Audit Office (SAO) building as a testament to the adverse effects of the zero-dollar business model, prevalent across various sectors including education. This model, often associated with foreign operators, particularly from China, contributes negligible economic value to Thailand. The zero-dollar business concept gained notoriety through Chinese tourism businesses offering tours that generate no substantial financial benefit for Thailand or its partners. Wiroj spotlighted similar activities within higher education, revealing that Chinese engineers in Thailand, operating under student visas, were identified during the SAO building’s post-collapse inquiry. Investigations showed these engineers were engaged by a seemingly Thai company, secretly owned by Chinese interests. Wiroj asserted that the international courses attracting Chinese nationals were conducted solely in the Chinese language, implying these programmes merely facilitated student visas for individuals tied to the zero-dollar industry. He further noted that the thesis processes in such programmes involved panels of Chinese academics who allegedly received payment to craft students' dissertations, highlighting academic malpractice. The university in question reportedly fell under the control of Chinese investors using Thai proxies, with tuition funds channelled through a parent company in China, while the local affiliate declared minimal profits to sidestep tax obligations. Moreover, it was revealed that some Chinese-led construction firms, disguised as local entities, imported materials from China and employed only Chinese engineers. Wiroj’s petition, aiming to address these issues, was submitted to Supamas Isarabhakdi, the Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation. The situation underscores a pressing need to reform practices within the education sector and tighten visa regulations to prevent the exploitation of Thailand’s educational resources and address broader concerns of economic integrity and safety. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-01

Foreign Man's Erratic Behaviour Sparks Concern in Jomtien Tourist talking to Jomtien municipal officers before sprinting away | Photo via Pattaya Mail Jomtien municipal officers were called into action on April 30th to address reports of a foreign man behaving suspiciously along Jomtien Second Road in Pattaya. Initially, the situation seemed manageable, with the individual amicably interacting with officers and pedestrians. However, tensions rose when the man unexpectedly took off running, leaving both residents and authorities concerned. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359414-foreign-mans-erratic-behaviour-sparks-concern-in-jomtien/

Tourist talking to Jomtien municipal officers before sprinting away | Photo via Pattaya Mail Jomtien municipal officers were called into action on April 30th to address reports of a foreign man behaving suspiciously along Jomtien Second Road in Pattaya. Initially, the situation seemed manageable, with the individual amicably interacting with officers and pedestrians. However, tensions rose when the man unexpectedly took off running, leaving both residents and authorities concerned. Local residents have increasingly voiced their unease over the man's erratic actions. One witness reported seeing him talking to himself earlier that morning, while another claimed he attempted to chase a dog with apparent harmful intent. These incidents have compounded fears, particularly as some locals assert that this isn’t the first occurrence of such behaviour. In response, Jomtien municipal officers and the police have reassured the public of their commitment to closely monitor the situation to maintain community safety. The strange incidents have fueled a significant public discourse, with many online commenters calling for stricter visa regulations and tougher measures against foreign nationals who could compromise safety. The growing public concern highlights the need for effective communication and intervention strategies by local authorities to handle such issues sensitively while ensuring the protection of the community. As investigations continue, residents hope for a resolution that will alleviate their fears and restore a sense of security in the area. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-01

Fake TDAC Website Emerges as New System Debuts in Thailand Photo: Bangkok Post On the very day Thailand launched its new Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) system for foreign visitors, a fake website has surfaced, aiming to deceive travellers. This fraudulent site poses as an official third-party service, charging users a US$10 processing fee, whereas the legitimate TDAC service is free. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359413-fake-tdac-website-emerges-as-new-system-debuts-in-thailand/

Photo: Bangkok Post On the very day Thailand launched its new Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) system for foreign visitors, a fake website has surfaced, aiming to deceive travellers. This fraudulent site poses as an official third-party service, charging users a US$10 processing fee, whereas the legitimate TDAC service is free. The TDAC system, which officially commenced on May 1st, replaces the traditional paper TM6 arrival cards. This digital transition is mandatory for all foreign nationals entering Thailand, whether by air, sea, or land. Travellers complete their details via the official TDAC website and receive an email confirmation to present upon arrival. Amidst the transition, the Immigration Bureau addressed confusion regarding application deadlines, clarifying that forms can be submitted up to three days prior to arrival, but not earlier. Contrary to some reports, applications do not require submission at least three days in advance. Assuring a seamless implementation, the Ministry of Tourism and Sports announced that the system is prepared with backup measures. In case of complications, travellers can temporarily revert to paper immigration forms. Additionally, computer terminals are ready at Suvarnabhumi Airport for those who need to fill out the TDAC upon arrival. While the real TDAC aims to streamline the arrival process, travellers are urged to verify the official website to avoid scams like the emerging fake site. Authorities remain vigilant in safeguarding visitors against such fraudulent activities as the system continues to roll out. Admin note: To clarify, both https://tdac.in.th and https://tdac.agents.co.th are legitimate websites operated by AGENTS CO., LTD. The official TDAC form is available at https://tdac.immigration.go.th, which uses the official .go.th government domain. If you choose to use an agency for submission, always ensure the website uses a Thai domain such as .co.th or .in.th, as these domains are restricted to verified Thai identities and cannot be registered anonymously. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-05-01

Doctor Paul Chambers Wins Right to Ditch Monitoring Bracelet U.S. political science lecturer Paul Chambers (left) of Thailand’s Naresuan University, stands outside the police station in Phitsanulok | Photo via AP In a notable victory for Doctor Paul Chambers, the Court of Appeal Region 6 has ruled that he can remove the electronic monitoring (EM) bracelet that he has been required to wear since April 10th. This decision comes after Chambers appealed a previous court order, amid an ongoing legal battle involving allegations under Thailand’s strict royal defamation laws. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356887-american-academic-faces-thai-royal-insult-charges-in-legal-storm/#findComment-19772630

Doctor Paul Chambers Wins Right to Ditch Monitoring Bracelet U.S. political science lecturer Paul Chambers (left) of Thailand’s Naresuan University, stands outside the police station in Phitsanulok | Photo via AP In a notable victory for Doctor Paul Chambers, the Court of Appeal Region 6 has ruled that he can remove the electronic monitoring (EM) bracelet that he has been required to wear since April 10th. This decision comes after Chambers appealed a previous court order, amid an ongoing legal battle involving allegations under Thailand’s strict royal defamation laws. On April 28th, Chambers sought the removal of the EM device from the Phitsanulok Provincial Court. However, the court, after a detailed hour-long review, denied his request, maintaining their initial stance to uphold the conditions set by the Court of Appeal Region 6. Undeterred, Chambers took his case to the higher court, which has now overturned the earlier decision, allowing him to remove the bracelet. Despite this success, Chambers is still bound by various bail conditions, including the surrender of his passport and a ban on traveling outside Thailand without explicit court approval. The legal proceedings against Chambers are rooted in allegations from the Third Army Region commander. It is claimed that Chambers posted an article on the ISEAS-Yusof Ishak Institute's website, containing content deemed defamatory to the Thai king. Under Thailand's stringent Section 112 of the Criminal Code, commonly referred to as the lese-majeste law, such actions are punishable by harsh penalties. Chambers, an academic with ties to Singapore, has firmly denied these allegations, asserting that he did not author or post the contentious article, nor is he involved in managing the website. Chambers' ordeal began when he voluntarily approached investigators on April 8th, upon learning that a court-issued arrest warrant had been placed. Despite his cooperation, the Phitsanulok Provincial Court initially detained him and denied bail twice on the same day. The situation took a turn when the Court of Appeal Region 6 temporarily released him the following day, imposing conditions that included appointing a supervisor for the duration of his release, alongside wearing the electronic bracelet. The permission to remove the EM device represents a pivotal moment, yet the underlying charges remain unresolved. Chambers continues to fight the allegations, which have spotlighted the controversial lese-majeste laws, often criticized for suppressing free speech and academic freedom. Chambers' case has attracted widespread attention from human rights organizations and academics globally, who argue that such legal actions threaten academic freedom and expression. The Human Rights Lawyers Centre in particular has been vocal, using social media to highlight the implications of these charges on international human rights standards. As the investigation progresses, this legal battle not only affects Chambers personally but also raises larger questions about the application of Thailand’s lese-majeste laws. These developments are being closely monitored, both within Thailand and internationally, as they may have significant implications for freedom of speech and the rights of individuals to engage in critical discourse. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-01

Photo: Vietnam News In a coordinated effort, 221 Vietnamese citizens who were detained in Myanmar for breaching immigration regulations have been safely repatriated on April 28-29 via three flights from Bangkok, Thailand. This initiative was jointly organised by Vietnam's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) and Ministry of Public Security, alongside Vietnam's diplomatic missions in Myanmar and Thailand, and relevant authorities from these countries. This follows an earlier repatriation on April 9, which brought an additional 39 Vietnamese citizens home. The MoFA has consistently urged Vietnamese citizens to exercise caution regarding overseas job offers that claim to offer “easy work with high pay” but lack the requisite qualifications, contracts, or formal recruitment processes. They advise thorough research of job details, locations, recruiter credentials, insurance policies, and benefits. Consulting with the relevant authorities is also recommended to prevent becoming undocumented migrants. For further assistance, Vietnamese citizens or their relatives in Myanmar are encouraged to contact the Vietnamese Embassy in Myanmar through its phone number +95 966088 8998 and email [email protected]. Similarly, the Vietnamese Embassy in Thailand can be reached at +66 8989 666 53 and [email protected]. The foreign ministry's consular protection hotline (+84 981 84 84 84) and email ([email protected]) are also available for urgent support and guidance. This repatriation emphasizes Vietnam's commitment to ensuring the safety and legal rights of its citizens abroad, while also raising awareness about the risks associated with informal overseas employment channels. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Vietnam News 2025-04-30

Photo: VN Express After battling cancer linked to Agent Orange exposure, Vietnam War veteran Matthew Keenan set foot back in Vietnam, a place he thought he would never return to. In mid-2014, 42 years after leaving Da Nang, Keenan's cancer diagnosis prompted him to learn more about the effects of dioxin, and in doing so, stirred a desire to return to the country he had long tried to forget. Keenan's experiences during the war were marked by trauma and danger. He served in southern Vietnam, recording casualty numbers and helping soldiers with addiction before they returned to the United States. Stationed at a hilltop base in Da Nang, the memories of helicopters and F-4 jets still haunted him decades later. The whirring of ceiling fans and loud noises brought these memories back, contributing to his post-traumatic stress disorder, often referred to as "Vietnam syndrome" in the U.S. Upon his cancer diagnosis, a result of Agent Orange exposure, Keenan realized that several generations of Vietnamese people had been affected by the same chemical. This realization pushed him to reach out to organizations like the Vietnam Friendship Village and Veterans for Peace with a desire to return to Vietnam. In 2015, Keenan's journey to reconnect with Vietnam began. Despite initial fears of how he would be received, he found warmth and acceptance. In Da Nang, he visited a center for children affected by Agent Orange, where their laughter and resilience offered him healing. One child, Phuong, who had also suffered from dioxin exposure, became a significant source of inspiration for Keenan. Keenan's visits transformed into a deeper commitment, leading to frequent volunteering at the Da Nang Association for Victims of Agent Orange (DAVA). His efforts extended to numerous charitable projects, including fundraising for a bus for children, building amenities, and providing supplies to brighten their days. In 2019, Keenan decided to settle permanently in Vietnam, just before the Covid-19 pandemic struck. Keenan's new life in Son Tra District, Da Nang, included marrying Yen Lan and continuing his advocacy work. Together, they focused on supporting children affected by Agent Orange. In an emotional visit to the Truong Son National Cemetery, Keenan encountered Vietnamese veterans, sharing moments of mutual respect and healing. Through his journey, Keenan transformed his painful past into a mission of reconciliation and support, bridging gaps between former foes and contributing positively to communities impacted by a painful history shared across oceans. Adapted by ASEAN Now from VN Express 2025-04-30

Photo: VN Express In a significant crackdown on international cybercrime, Vietnamese authorities have arrested a group of Chinese nationals accused of defrauding Japanese victims of nearly $500,000 through fake e-commerce platforms and cryptocurrency schemes. The operation, led by Xing Yannank, 35, involved 30 other suspects, including both Chinese and Vietnamese nationals. On April 29, Ho Chi Minh City police conducted coordinated raids on six locations across the city, seizing hundreds of electronic devices, including phones, laptops, and tablets, along with a bag of methamphetamine. The suspects had entered Vietnam via various border points over the past three months and had established themselves in upscale neighborhoods, using a three-story house in the Khang Dien residential area as their base. Disguised as a convenience store named Viet Hoa, this location served as the headquarters for their cybercrime activities. The group allegedly targeted Japanese users through social media, convincing them to invest or purchase from fraudulent e-commerce sites. They instructed victims to transfer payments in cryptocurrency or Japanese yen to specific accounts, only to sever all communication once the payments were received. Additionally, the syndicate promoted bogus cryptocurrency investment opportunities, with all proceeds managed by the ringleader Xing. Members of the group reportedly earned up to VND50 million ($1,922) monthly, alongside performance bonuses. Over just two months, the scam is believed to have netted over USDT486,000 ($486,138) from its Japanese victims, with Xing himself pocketing more than USDT38,000. An investigation into the full scope of the operation is ongoing, as authorities work to dismantle the network and prevent further incidents. This case highlights the growing threat of international cybercrimes, prompting increased vigilance and cross-border cooperation to protect vulnerable targets from similar scams. Adapted by ASEAN Now from VN Express 2025-04-30

File photo for reference only The Department of Transportation (DOTr) in the Philippines has issued a stern warning to airlines against the alleged deliberate tampering of passengers' passports, a practice that could lead to severe sanctions. Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon addressed these concerns following reports of incidents of "punit passport" (deliberately torn passports) at certain airports, resulting in affected passengers being offloaded. Secretary Dizon emphasized that if these allegations prove to be true, the involved parties will face significant consequences. "We will review CCTV footage and gather personal accounts from airports to ensure such incidents are addressed," he stated, noting that the alleged events are currently under investigation. One prominent case highlighted involved Diana Natividad, who shared on social media that her 78-year-old father was unable to board a Cebu Pacific flight to Bali due to a minor tear on his passport. She described the tear as minor, likely due to normal wear, and expressed confusion over the refusal. Cebu Pacific, responding to these allegations, denied any wrongdoing by their staff. Spokesperson Carmina Romero expressed the airline's commitment to customer service, stating, "It is our joy to fly passengers to their destinations. We have no intention to ruin vacations." Romero underscored that airlines must ensure passenger documents, particularly passports, are intact and meet international standards to avoid complications with foreign immigration authorities. Indonesian authorities in Bali confirmed they would not have accepted the damaged passport upon arrival, adding context to the decision to offload Natividad's father. The DOTr also reminds passengers traveling internationally to verify their passport's validity and condition prior to departure. They encourage consulting with passport centers or airport officials if there is any doubt about passport integrity. According to advisories from the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), a passport is deemed damaged if its physical integrity is compromised to the extent that it becomes mutilated or defective. This includes any scenarios where the data page is unreadable, the chip is compromised, or parts of the document are detached or water-damaged, thus affecting visa stamps and printed information. As the investigation continues, the DOTr aims to ensure that such issues do not inconvenience travelers or disrupt their plans unnecessarily. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Inquirer 2025-04-30

File photo for reference only In the lead-up to the 2025 midterm elections, Filipino voters are steadfast in their demands for candidates who can address critical issues such as job creation, food security, and healthcare system improvements. This sentiment was captured in a recent Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey released on April 30, reflecting long-standing concerns among the electorate. Topping the list of priorities is the creation of job opportunities, with 93% of surveyed voters expressing support for candidates committed to tackling unemployment. Equally important to voters is the development of the agricultural sector to ensure food security, also supported by 93% of respondents. Stratbase President Dindo Manhit commented on the survey results, noting that inflation is exacerbating financial strains for many, even those with jobs. "Filipinos are not asking for much — only for the dignity of stable work and the ability to support their loved ones," Manhit emphasized. Another significant concern is the enhancement of the Philippine healthcare system, highlighted by 91% of respondents. Voters are also advocating for the protection of workers’ rights and the welfare of overseas Filipino workers, with 88% supporting candidates who prioritize these issues. Reducing poverty and hunger remains a critical issue, aligning with self-rated poverty surveys indicating that 63% of households consider themselves poor, the highest level in over two decades. Access to education and the rising cost of basic goods are also notable concerns, each acknowledged by 85% of respondents. Further issues influencing voter preferences include tackling climate change effects and improving disaster preparedness (83%), combating illegal drugs (80%), ensuring energy security through renewable sources (79%), defending national security and sovereignty in the West Philippine Sea (78%), and fighting corruption (73%). Manhit urged voters to scrutinize candidates' past actions and platforms thoroughly. "Promises about job creation should not be empty words — they must be backed by clear programs and a history of action," he stated. He also highlighted the need for post-election accountability, stressing that a government prioritizing jobs should protect democratic institutions, adhere to the rule of law, and promote unity. The SWS survey, conducted with 1,800 Filipino adults from April 11 to 14, provides a snapshot of the electorate's priorities as they prepare to vote in the upcoming elections. The survey carries a margin of error of ±2%. Adapted by ASEAN Now from PhilStar 2025-04-30

File photo for reference only On the eve of Labour Day and in the run-up to the mid-term elections, the Trabaho Party-list is reinforcing its commitment to champion the rights and needs of the working class in the Philippines. "We know what the workers want and need because we are workers ourselves," stated spokesperson and lawyer Mitchell-David Espiritu on April 30. The party-list, represented by nominees Lawyer Johanne Bautista, Ninai Chavez, and Nelson de Vega, has pledged to drive legislation in the House of Representatives focused on creating sustainable employment opportunities, ensuring equitable wages, and enhancing worker benefits and protections. Formed by a diverse group of professionals, underpaid workers, informal workers, and entrepreneurs, the Trabaho Party-list aims to tackle the challenges faced by various sectors, particularly those related to job access discrimination and emerging workforce threats posed by climate change. Espiritu highlighted the lack of robust national regulations addressing the rising national heat index as an area needing urgent attention. In response to these hazards, the party-list is advocating for comprehensive medical benefits and health insurance coverage, ensuring access to preventive care, regular health screenings, and a full range of insurance plans that cover heat-related illnesses. "Non-wage benefits and protections are essential to mitigate the financial burdens of medical expenses and to ensure timely medical attention for affected workers," Espiritu emphasized, underscoring the importance of these measures in safeguarding worker health and financial security. As Labour Day approaches, the Trabaho Party-list reaffirms its dedication to representing the workers' voices in shaping policies that reflect their needs and aspirations, striving for a fairer, more supportive work environment across the nation. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Manila Bulletin 2025-04-30

Arsenic Contamination in Kok River Triggers Urgent Testing in Chiang Mai Picture courtesy of ThaiPost Authorities in Chiang Mai are conducting extensive testing of aquatic animals and agricultural produce due to arsenic contamination in the Kok River. In response to the pollution issues that emerged on March 19, police have issued warnings against using river water for daily consumption and food preparation. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359329-arsenic-contamination-in-kok-river-triggers-urgent-testing-in-chiang-mai/

Picture courtesy of ThaiPost Authorities in Chiang Mai are conducting extensive testing of aquatic animals and agricultural produce due to arsenic contamination in the Kok River. In response to the pollution issues that emerged on March 19, police have issued warnings against using river water for daily consumption and food preparation. Deputy Governor Siwako Buaphong participated in an online meeting with the Senate Committee on Natural Resources and Environment on April 29 at Chiang Mai Provincial Hall to address the ongoing crisis. Multiple government agencies are involved in assessing water quality at three critical sites: the Thai-Myanmar border, the Friendship Bridge, and Pa Tai village. Results reveal worsening water quality, with heavy metals and toxins exceeding safety standards. Efforts are being directed to trace the pollution sources and mitigate the impact on riverbank communities, especially in the Tha Ton and Na Wang subdistricts. Local health volunteers, alongside government bodies, are actively advising residents, entrepreneurs, and farmers to avoid contact with the river water for consumption and agricultural use. The Chiang Mai Provincial Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Office has stepped in to supply potable water to affected areas. Deputy Governor Siwako expressed concerns about the contamination's impact on fisheries, livestock, and agriculture in Mae Ai district. Fortunately, most residents rely on mountain water, reducing the contamination's effect. However, the tourism sector along the river faces more pressing safety concerns. Contamination remains high, as per sediment samples collected on April 24 in Mae Ai district. In response, Siwako has directed the Chiang Mai Fisheries and Agriculture offices to re-test aquatic and agricultural resources for toxic substances, including arsenic, mercury, lead, and cadmium. To safeguard public health, officials are reinforcing advisories against using contaminated water for cooking and consumption, urging strict adherence to safety guidelines among local communities. The situation underscores the need for rapid response and thorough investigation to protect the well-being of affected residents and the sustainability of the region's natural resources. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-04-30

Joint Committee Approves 30 Development Projects in Thailand's Upper Northeast Photo: Bangkok Post A public-private joint committee has greenlit 30 development projects with a total investment of over 16.4 billion baht set to transform the upper Northeast region of Thailand. The cabinet is poised to review these initiatives for budget approval during a mobile meeting in Nakhon Phanom, as confirmed by Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungruangkit. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359328-joint-committee-approves-30-development-projects-in-thailands-upper-northeast/

Photo: Bangkok Post A public-private joint committee has greenlit 30 development projects with a total investment of over 16.4 billion baht set to transform the upper Northeast region of Thailand. The cabinet is poised to review these initiatives for budget approval during a mobile meeting in Nakhon Phanom, as confirmed by Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungruangkit. Out of the proposed developments, nine projects are ready for immediate rollout. Among them are efforts to enhance the Mekong River's landscape in Nakhon Phanom's Muang district, create the Geo Park Centre in Tha Uthen district, and advance Sakon Nakhon as a hub for the creative economy. These projects, a mix of provincial and private sector initiatives, are each valued at 200 million baht, with an expected funding request of 400 million baht from the central fund for the 2025 budget. Deputy Transport Minister Manaporn Charoensri highlighted that these nine projects focus heavily on tourism and infrastructure, with completion anticipated within a year. Minister Suriya noted an additional 21 projects, collectively worth 16 billion baht, which await prioritisation by relevant agencies before cabinet budget requests. The committee also endorsed the R12 land route project, which enhances transportation connectivity between Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, and southern China, facilitating broader trade opportunities. Ahead of the cabinet meeting, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and ministers visited several key sites in Sakon Nakhon's Muang district, including Bueng Nong Harn Lake and Don Kern Park. Bueng Nong Harn, the largest freshwater lake in the Northeast and the second largest in Thailand, plays a crucial role in local biodiversity and as a resource for community livelihoods. The focus on sustainable utilization of these natural resources aligns with the government's emphasis on preserving balanced ecosystems for community benefit. As part of her visit, the prime minister was briefed on local efforts to leverage this biodiversity sustainably, underscoring her administration's commitment to ecosystem-friendly development strategies. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-04-30

Pattaya Officials Crack Down on Sidewalk Encroachments Pictures courtesy of Pattaya Mail Pattaya is taking strides to clear its sidewalks and public spaces, launching a campaign under the motto "Done, Doing, and Continuing—for Pattaya." On April 29, municipal officers conducted a sweep in Jomtien, targeting illegal signage and unauthorised structures encroaching onto pavements. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359327-pattaya-officials-crack-down-on-sidewalk-encroachments/

Pictures courtesy of Pattaya Mail Pattaya is taking strides to clear its sidewalks and public spaces, launching a campaign under the motto "Done, Doing, and Continuing—for Pattaya." On April 29, municipal officers conducted a sweep in Jomtien, targeting illegal signage and unauthorised structures encroaching onto pavements. During the inspection, officials discovered that some businesses had extended their operations beyond legal boundaries. They found signs, sunshades, and other fixtures unlawfully occupying public areas. Business owners were given strict warnings to remove these encroachments immediately or face penalties. "The aim is not to punish but to ensure order and accessibility in shared spaces," an official clarified. "We want to collaborate with the community to uphold the rules." This initiative has sparked significant online conversation, with locals expressing support and urging for extended enforcement in Pattaya's congested areas. Residents have highlighted various problem spots, calling for attention on streets cluttered with unauthorised parking and overhanging structures. Social media users are voicing specific concerns, pointing out areas like Soi Pothisarn 1/1 and Soi Buakhao where public roads have become obstructed by illegally parked cars and extended sunshades. Moreover, campaign posters are flagged as visibility hazards at intersections. The sarcasm isn't lost on some users, with tongue-in-cheek remarks capturing the ongoing struggle with noncompliance: "I told you, it’s in front of my shop—I’ll do whatever I want!" City officials assert that this is just the outset of a larger campaign. More neighbourhoods will be assessed in the coming weeks as part of Pattaya's commitment to improving urban order and ensuring accessibility across the city. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-04-30

Transport Ministry to Propose MRT Act Amendments for Flat Fare Introduction Photo of Suriya Juangroongruangkit courtesy of The Nation The Ministry of Transport is gearing up to propose amendments to the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) Act, timed with the introduction of a 20-baht flat fare for Thailand's electric railway system, planned for September. Deputy Transport Minister Manaporn Charoensri announced on April 29 that the ministry is putting the finishing touches on a draft amendment, set for discussion during a special session of the House of Representatives from May 28 to 30. This session will also consider the 2026 fiscal budget. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359326-transport-ministry-to-propose-mrt-act-amendments-for-flat-fare-introduction/

Photo of Suriya Juangroongruangkit courtesy of The Nation The Ministry of Transport is gearing up to propose amendments to the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) Act, timed with the introduction of a 20-baht flat fare for Thailand's electric railway system, planned for September. Deputy Transport Minister Manaporn Charoensri announced on April 29 that the ministry is putting the finishing touches on a draft amendment, set for discussion during a special session of the House of Representatives from May 28 to 30. This session will also consider the 2026 fiscal budget. The amendments aim to establish a compensation fund to reimburse private train operators for reduced fares, facilitating the flat rate of 20 baht per trip. The Mass Rapid Transit Authority (MRTA) is currently conducting a public hearing on the proposed changes through the Central Legal website, which ends on May 2. Feedback from this consultation will be incorporated into the final draft, due for Cabinet submission by May 13. Manaporn highlighted the necessity of amending the current MRTA Act, citing outdated provisions that restrict operational flexibility and infrastructure development. The revised law seeks to modernize the legal framework, improve asset management, and introduce integrated ticketing systems. Furthermore, it aims to expand the MRTA's operational scope, including the commercial use of its assets. In addition to the MRT Act amendments, two other transport-related bills will be proposed during the upcoming House session. The Rail Transport Department Bill aims to enhance regulatory oversight, while the Common Ticketing Bill seeks to integrate fare systems across various modes of transport, providing a seamless travel experience for commuters. These legislative changes reflect the Ministry of Transport's commitment to improving urban transit infrastructure and accessibility, aligning with broader efforts to develop a more efficient, integrated public transport system in Thailand. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-04-30

MP Criticises NBTC Over Abandoned Headquarters and Spending Practices Photo: Bangkok Post Rukchanok Srinork, an MP representing the People's Party in Bangkok, has leveled accusations of incompetence and financial mismanagement against the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC). Her criticisms follow the cancellation of a planned multi-billion-baht headquarters project for the NBTC. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359323-mp-criticises-nbtc-over-abandoned-headquarters-and-spending-practices/

Photo: Bangkok Post Rukchanok Srinork, an MP representing the People's Party in Bangkok, has leveled accusations of incompetence and financial mismanagement against the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC). Her criticisms follow the cancellation of a planned multi-billion-baht headquarters project for the NBTC. Originally budgeted at 2.6 billion baht, the office building was intended for completion in 2022. However, the construction contract was scrapped following repeated requests from the NBTC to alter the building's design, coupled with delays attributed to the Covid-19 pandemic. The initial design commenced in 2013, and construction began in 2019. Ms Rukchanok emphasized that frequent design changes typically escalate costs. In addition to the main budget, an extra 100 million baht was allocated for design and supervision. She has indicated that a full review of the construction plan and project's bill of quantities should be available within ten days. As part of the House committee on state budget planning and spending, Ms Rukchanok noted the NBTC's unusual autonomy in undertaking such large-scale projects without requiring Budget Bureau approval or oversight from the House of Representatives. This independence stems from the NBTC's revenue model, which includes collecting up to 2% of revenue from broadcast licence holders, yielding several billion baht annually. Further adding to her critique, Ms Rukchanok questioned the NBTC's budgetary approval process and expressed concern over spending decisions, such as a 600 million baht investment in World Cup viewing rights. She also highlighted issues with the NBTC's internal management, citing the lack of a designated secretary-general for five years and alleged undue influence from telecommunications companies. Ms Rukchanok remarked on the NBTC's ineffective handling of critical issues, such as fraudulent SMS messages from scam syndicates and unauthorized internet access along border areas, pointing to leadership shortcomings. As of now, the NBTC has not offered a response to these allegations. The situation underscores ongoing scrutiny over fiscal accountability and operational efficacy within Thai regulatory bodies. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-04-30