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File photo for reference only A historic milestone in Thailand sees same-sex couples legally allowed to wed from 23rd January, rolling out a significant change in a country known as the Land of Smiles. This new law grants same-sex couples the same marital rights as heterosexual pairs, allowing them to register their marriages at district offices nationwide and even at Thai embassies abroad. To celebrate this momentous occasion, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) is hosting a mass marriage event at Paragon Hall, located in Siam Paragon. The event, scheduled from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm, is set to be a grand affair with lovebirds from across the nation flocking to participate. Couples keen on tying the knot must register online in advance to ensure a seamless experience. Required documents include ID cards or government-issued papers for locals, while foreign nationals should bring passports and single status certificates. The city anticipates welcoming approximately 300 same-sex couples to wed on this special day. Bangkok's Deputy Governor, Sanon Wangsrangboon, has been actively visiting district offices to ensure all preparations are in order. Officials have undergone training to assist couples through the registration process smoothly. As excitement builds, over 100 couples have already pre-registered, with 67 planning to declare their lifelong commitments at the vibrant Siam Paragon venue. In a nation that's long celebrated its diversity, this landmark law and the joy it brings mark a new chapter of equality. Let the festivities commence in full swing! -- 2025-01-13

Making waves: Miss Grand Roi Et turns up heat with sexy swimwear By Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Miss Grand Roi Et 2025 beauty pageant The Miss Grand Roi Et 2025 beauty pageant ignited quite a stir, thanks to a daring choice of swimwear that sent social media into a frenzied meltdown. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348704-making-waves-miss-grand-roi-et-turns-up-heat-with-sexy-swimwear/

Picture courtesy of Miss Grand Roi Et 2025 beauty pageant By Bob Scott The Miss Grand Roi Et 2025 beauty pageant ignited quite a stir, thanks to a daring choice of swimwear that sent social media into a frenzied meltdown. Contestants strutted their stuff in swimsuits that some deemed trendy but others branded as inappropriate because they aren’t practical to wear for a swim. Held on Saturday, January 11, the pageant didn’t shy away from the avant-garde, as contestants took to the stage wrapped in white tape, emblazoned with Miss Grand Thailand. The goal? To showcase their stunning physiques in a bold and current style echoing the tape dress trend. It was contestant number MGRE 03, Bebel Sudarat Namthaisong, who snagged the Best in Swimsuit title. Yet not all were impressed. Keyboard critics blasted the tape swimsuits for crossing the line of good taste and functionality: they’re hardly ideal for a swim, and a bit too revealing for some viewers’ liking. Debates raged over whether these barely-there ensembles were appropriate for such an event. On the flip side, some fashion-forward followers adored the unique design, applauding its break away from monotony and nod to global fashion trends. This bold style finds its roots with supermodel Gigi Hadid, who turned heads at Paris Fashion Week with a Vetements mini dress crafted from DHL tape, a look that went viral, particularly across Asia. With numerous celebrities jumping on the trendwagon, it’s hardly surprising that Miss Grand Roi Et would ride this wave, dressing contestants in these headline-grabbing swimsuits. Love it or loathe it, the conversation shows no signs of slowing down. The Miss Grand Roi Et isn’t the only beauty pageant to cause controvesy recently. Late last year a Thai beauty queen demanded justice after a beauty pageant manager deceived her into paying 800,000 baht to secure a crown. The 27 year old beauty queen, Panicha, also known as Lemon, sought help from non-profit organisation Saimai Survive after she was allegedly duped by the manager of a renowned beauty pageant in the central province of Suphan Buri. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-13

Man found dead in garden believed to succumb to cold weather By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A 53 year old man was found deceased in his garden in Mueang district, Nakhon Ratchasima province, after reportedly stepping outside to urinate. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348703-man-found-dead-in-garden-believed-to-succumb-to-cold-weather/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod By Bright Choomanee A 53 year old man was found deceased in his garden in Mueang district, Nakhon Ratchasima province, after reportedly stepping outside to urinate. Identified as Prawet from Ban Kok, the man was discovered by his stepson, who had gone out for a cigarette on the morning of today, January 12. Upon finding Prawet, the stepson alerted the village head and locals, who then notified the police. Upon arrival, Police Lieutenant Prayoon Ketiya, Deputy Inspector of Phimai Police Station, along with the Hook 31 Rescue Unit, found the body lying in the garden in front of the house. Prawet was dressed in a long-sleeved shirt and trousers, with both hands clenched against his chest. There were no signs of foul play on the body, and it was estimated that he had been deceased for approximately 10 hours. The rescue services transported the body to Phimai Hospital for an autopsy to determine the exact cause of death. The body will later be released to the family for funeral rites. Santi Rabiabtham, a 58 year old resident and the first to discover the body, reported that Prawet was his mother’s new husband and his stepfather. He mentioned that Prawet was frequently seen urinating in the garden opposite the house rather than using the bathroom. He suspected that the cold weather might have contributed to Prawet’s death. Sangwan, Prawet’s 78 year old wife, confirmed that her husband had no underlying health conditions but had a habit of drinking alcohol regularly. On the evening of yesterday, January 11, around 8pm, she observed her husband leave the house to urinate in the garden as was his routine, reported KhaoSod. She was not concerned by his passing and believed the cold weather, accompanied by strong winds, may have been responsible for his death while he was outside. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-13

Drunk foreign tourist injured in Pattaya motorbike collision By Bob Scott Pictures courtesy of Pattaya News Chaos erupted in the early hours of today on Pattaya Third Road as a foreign tourist, suspected to be under the influence of alcohol, was mowed down by a motorcyclist, leaving him with head injuries. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348701-drunk-foreign-tourist-injured-in-pattaya-motorbike-collision/

Pictures courtesy of Pattaya News By Bob Scott Chaos erupted in the early hours of today on Pattaya Third Road as a foreign tourist, suspected to be under the influence of alcohol, was mowed down by a motorcyclist, leaving him with head injuries. At precisely 12.10am, today, January 13, Pattaya police were alerted to the scene, swiftly co-ordinating with the dedicated Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan rescue team to attend to the incident near the entrance of Soi Chaloem Phra Kiat 21. On arrival, emergency services discovered an unidentified foreign man lying unconscious, sporting a severe head wound with blood flowing freely. Rescue teams sprang into action, performing chest stimulation techniques to revive the drunk man until he regained consciousness. Despite his ordeal, the boozy pedestrian declined a hospital trip after receiving initial medical care on the spot. Meanwhile, the motorbike rider was identified as 31 year old Prawit, who had been cruising on his red Honda Wave 125i, now showing significant front-end damage post-collision. Sporting just a few scrapes, Prawit remained at the scene and dutifully provided a statement to police. According to Prawit, he was minding his own business, travelling along the road when, out of nowhere, the tipsy pedestrian wobbled straight into his path, triggering the unfortunate accident. Ever the responsible rider, Prawit immediately alerted the police and emergency services. As for the foreign pedestrian, he chose to keep mum, declining to provide any statement at the scene, reported Pattaya News. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-13

Pattaya on pause: Plan ahead or lose the booze By Bob Scott Picture courtesy of The Moscow Times Local officials in Pattaya issued a gentle reminder to plan carefully for upcoming events in the city including the Chon Buri local elections and the booze bans. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348700-pattaya-on-pause-plan-ahead-or-lose-the-booze/

Picture courtesy of The Moscow Times By Bob Scott Local officials in Pattaya issued a gentle reminder to plan carefully for upcoming events in the city including the Chon Buri local elections and the booze bans. Locals, visitors and tourists in Pattaya should mark their calendars as the region is likely to go dry from 5pm on January 31 to 5pm on February 1. While the exact date hasn’t been finalised, this schedule is almost a sure thing. Under Thai law, booze bans kick in 24 hours before elections and continue through voting, affecting everyone regardless of whether they’re casting a vote, reported Pattaya News. Although other local elections might pop up across Thailand, this one’s the biggie for Pattaya, focusing on regional positions, Pattaya’s mayor won’t be on the ballot this year. Religious Holidays: Makha Bucha Day: February 12, a Wednesday. Visakha Bucha Day: May 11, a Sunday. Note, while Monday, May 12, is a government holiday, the bars will be back in business. Asalha Bucha Day: July 10, a Thursday. Buddhist Lent Day: July 11, a Friday. End of Buddhist Lent Day: October 7, a Tuesday. These dry days honour Thailand’s rich Buddhist traditions or support the electoral process. Visitors should plan their affairs with these in mind. While some sports bars or restaurant/bar hybrids might keep their doors open, they’re legally barred from serving alcohol on these sacred days. Typically, the dry spell lasts a full 24 hours, from midnight to midnight, though local officials sometimes offer a bit of wiggle room with slightly adjusted timings. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-13

Russian man remains free after jet ski theft attempt in Phuket By Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ Phuket Times ภูเก็ตไทม์ Police are searching for a Russian man who stole a jet ski from a Thai operator on Bang Thao Beach in Phuket on Friday, January 10. Fortunately, the victim managed to retrieve the stolen vehicle. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348699-russian-man-remains-free-after-jet-ski-theft-attempt-in-phuket/

Photo via Facebook/ Phuket Times ภูเก็ตไทม์ By Petch Petpailin Police are searching for a Russian man who stole a jet ski from a Thai operator on Bang Thao Beach in Phuket on Friday, January 10. Fortunately, the victim managed to retrieve the stolen vehicle. The Thai jet ski rental operator filed a complaint against the Russian man, identified as Mikhail Kolodnyi, at around 3pm on Friday at Choeng Thale Police Station. The operator reported that Kolodnyi was swimming near Bang Thao Beach before unexpectedly climbing onto a speedboat belonging to a restaurant in the area. The boat owner intervened, asking Kolodnyi to leave. He complied but then turned his attention to a nearby rental jet ski. Kolodnyi reportedly jumped onto the jet ski and sped away from the scene. The operator gave chase and caught up with Kolodnyi at near the Amanpuri Hotel, managing to stop him. The operator then brought both Kolodnyi and the jet ski back to the scene of the incident and accompanied the suspect to the police station. However, officers at Choeng Thale Police Station declined to press charges, stating that Kolodnyi had not officially stolen the jet ski. Police claimed that his actions were impulsive rather than premeditated and released him. The jet ski operator was dissatisfied with the police’s conclusion and insisted on pursuing legal action. Police eventually recorded the complaint but could not immediately press charges as the suspect had already been released. The police are now searching for the Russian man, who is believed to still be in the Choeng Thale sub-district, Thalang district, Phuket. The police’s handling of the case has drawn criticism from Thai netizens. Many argued that some foreigners in Thailand exploit the perception that local laws are lenient towards them, leading to audacious criminal behaviour. Some commenters even suggested that victims of such crimes should take matters into their own hands before involving the police. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-13

Catamaran catastrophe avoided: Foreign tourists saved off Phuket Picture courtesy of Amarin TV By Bob Scott Disaster was narrowly averted today as a catamaran carrying 38 foreign tourists capsized off the coast of Phuket, prompting a panicked scramble before nearby speedboats rushed to the rescue. At around 1pm today, January 13, the catamaran Emiray 888 found itself in deep trouble. As it set sail from Chalong Pier in Phuket’s Mueang district for a day trip to Racha Island, water began seeping in, causing the vessel to slowly sink 1.6 nautical miles north of Racha Island. Aboard were 33 Chinese tourists, two tour guides, and three crew members. Responding swiftly, the regional rescue centre coordinated a successful rescue mission with officials and nearby patrol boats. Speedboats and tour boats from neighbouring companies responded heroically, managing to save everyone on board. Thankfully, all the tourists were wearing life jackets at the time, ensuring their safety. Meanwhile, the Tourist Police wasted no time, collaborating with the Port Authority and other relevant agencies to offer the necessary support to affected tourists. Amarin TV reported that a dedicated task force with volunteer interpreters was assembled at Chalong Pier to assist and reassure the rescued tourists. Investigations are now underway into the legitimacy of the tour company and guides, with police also liaising with the Chinese Consulate to keep them informed about the incident. Amidst the chaos, this successful rescue operation stands as a testament to the swift, coordinated response of those involved. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-13

Raid Exposes Illegal Gold Mining Operation in Thailand File photo for reference only In a pre-dawn operation, forestry police arrested a Vietnamese man and five Thais at an illegal gold mining site on Panompa Mountain in Thailand's northern province. This decisive action followed a complaint about a Vietnamese investor's covert activities on the site, located in tambon Nong Phra of Wang Sai Phun district, where he was suspected of digging for gold. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348511-raid-exposes-illegal-gold-mining-operation-in-thailand/

File photo for reference only In a pre-dawn operation, forestry police arrested a Vietnamese man and five Thais at an illegal gold mining site on Panompa Mountain in Thailand's northern province. This decisive action followed a complaint about a Vietnamese investor's covert activities on the site, located in tambon Nong Phra of Wang Sai Phun district, where he was suspected of digging for gold. The Vietnamese national, identified as Duong, 38, was caught alongside Thai nationals Phirabun, 58, Bunyom, 48, Ms Somporn, 45, Patthana, 37, and Sawat, 63. Notably, their surnames were not disclosed. Authorities confiscated 39 pieces of mining equipment, including numerous sacks of ammonium nitrate—frequently used in explosives—highlighting the scale and potential danger of the operation. According to Pol Maj Gen Watcharin Phusit, commander of the police's Natural Resource and Environmental Crime Suppression Division, rising gold prices had driven the Thai suspects to involve Duong, facilitating his clandestine entry into the mining site. The suspects are currently held at the Wang Sai Phun police station, as authorities anticipate further arrests. The raid underscores ongoing efforts to combat illegal mining amid soaring gold market values. -- 2025-01-10

Copper Thieves Leave Buriram Village in the Dark; Residents Demand Action File photo for reference only In the small village of Baan Jok Tia, Buriram province, residents are growing increasingly frustrated after discovering the cause behind recent power outages. Initially believed to be a result of unpaid bills leading to electricity meter removal, it has been unveiled that the real culprits are thieves cutting main power lines to extract copper wires. Both homes and the local Wat Woradit temple have suffered, leaving nearly 10 households without power and substantial inconvenience in the community. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348510-copper-thieves-leave-buriram-village-in-the-dark-residents-demand-action/

File photo for reference only In the small village of Baan Jok Tia, Buriram province, residents are growing increasingly frustrated after discovering the cause behind recent power outages. Initially believed to be a result of unpaid bills leading to electricity meter removal, it has been unveiled that the real culprits are thieves cutting main power lines to extract copper wires. Both homes and the local Wat Woradit temple have suffered, leaving nearly 10 households without power and substantial inconvenience in the community. Yesterday, concerned residents urged local authorities to prioritise capturing those responsible. The intricate nature of the damages, including the severed lines and tampered low-voltage poles, points to individuals well-versed in electricity, as mentioned by Phetphong Ngaokhainan, a temple caretaker. The cutting of wires not only disabled current but also halted the temple's water supply. Copper and aluminium present in the wiring are valuable on the black market, suspected to be fuelling drug-related activities in the area. The community fears such criminal actions could escalate if not promptly addressed. Residents have expressed hope for swift and effective intervention by local law enforcement to restore village normalcy and prevent future thefts. -- 2025-01-10

Clinic Faces Fraud Allegations: NHSO Reports 'Ghost Patient' Case File photo for reference only The National Health Security Office (NHSO) in Thailand has taken legal action against a clinic in Chiang Rai province, alleging it defrauded the nation's universal healthcare system. The clinic, which joined the NHSO scheme in October 2023, is accused of claiming false reimbursements amounting to 1.8 million baht, including serving at least one "ghost patient." Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348509-clinic-faces-fraud-allegations-nhso-reports-ghost-patient-case/

File photo for reference only The National Health Security Office (NHSO) in Thailand has taken legal action against a clinic in Chiang Rai province, alleging it defrauded the nation's universal healthcare system. The clinic, which joined the NHSO scheme in October 2023, is accused of claiming false reimbursements amounting to 1.8 million baht, including serving at least one "ghost patient." Dr Attaporn Limpanyalert, deputy secretary-general of the NHSO, lodged a formal complaint at the Ban Du police station following three separate grievances from the public. One complaint involved a patient who discovered their name was wrongfully included in the clinic's records, barring them from rightful access to universal healthcare services. Further investigation revealed unusually high usage numbers at the clinic, suggesting the owner redirected hospital-bound patients to the clinic instead. There are also claims that the clinic collected patient IDs in exchange for small goods, such as milk and toothpaste, without providing legitimate services. The NHSO is now vigorously scrutinising this case for its potential impacts on the broader healthcare system. Dr Attaporn confirmed that if any more irregularities are discovered, they would widen their investigations across other clinics under the NHSO's purview. This move aims to safeguard the integrity of Thailand's universal healthcare scheme, which relies on trust between health service providers and patients. -- 2025-01-10

Thailand Gears Up for Spectacular National Children’s Day Events File photo for reference only As Thailand prepares to celebrate National Children's Day, families can anticipate an exciting array of activities in Nong Pla Lai and Sattahip, Chon Buri, this Saturday. With everything from bike giveaways to spectacular naval displays, the day promises unforgettable experiences for children and their families. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348508-thailand-gears-up-for-spectacular-national-children’s-day-events/

File photo for reference only As Thailand prepares to celebrate National Children's Day, families can anticipate an exciting array of activities in Nong Pla Lai and Sattahip, Chon Buri, this Saturday. With everything from bike giveaways to spectacular naval displays, the day promises unforgettable experiences for children and their families. In Nong Pla Lai, the festivities spearheaded by Mayor Pinyo Homklan will kick off at 8.30am at the municipality building. Attendees can look forward to engaging activity booths and fun games offering a range of prizes. A generous giveaway of over 20 bicycles for early registrants is a highlight, alongside a variety of food stalls that will distribute free meals to children. Emphasising community involvement, Mayor Pinyo expressed gratitude to local businesses and residents supporting the event, aiming to "bring happiness to our children." Safety measures are in place with guidance desks to assist parents and identification advice for little ones. Simultaneously, Sattahip’s Naval Base hosts a thrilling day at Chuk Samet Pier from 8am to 2pm. The schedule includes guided tours of the impressive Royal Thai Navy vessels like HTMS Chakri Naruebet and electrifying Navy SEAL demonstrations. Other attractions encompass live music, exhibits of cutting-edge military technology, and Fancy Drills performances. The events, complemented by free refreshments and souvenirs, are designed to inspire and amuse young and old alike. These gatherings not only aim to entertain but also showcase Thailand’s dedication to acknowledging and nurturing its future leaders. -- 2025-01-10

Thailand Halts Plastic Waste Imports, Aims to Curb Pollution Crisis File photo for reference only Thailand has taken a landmark step in battling toxic pollution by implementing a ban on the import of plastic waste from January 1. Joining the ranks of regional neighbours like Malaysia and Vietnam, this move aligns with efforts to mitigate the global waste crisis accelerated by China's 2018 National Sword policy. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348506-thailand-halts-plastic-waste-imports-aims-to-curb-pollution-crisis/

File photo for reference only Thailand has taken a landmark step in battling toxic pollution by implementing a ban on the import of plastic waste from January 1. Joining the ranks of regional neighbours like Malaysia and Vietnam, this move aligns with efforts to mitigate the global waste crisis accelerated by China's 2018 National Sword policy. The regulation, introduced by the Department of Foreign Trade, is stringent, allowing only rare exceptions where imported plastic is essential for production as a raw material. Environmentalists have celebrated this as a major victory, though they stress the importance of vigilant enforcement. Penchom Sae-Tang, head of a prominent environmental NGO, underscored the need for strict oversight, warning against factories potentially burning imported waste, a practice detrimental to public health and the environment. In the wake of China's ban, Thailand had become a primary destination for plastic waste from developed countries, resulting in significant pollution challenges. The new legislation aims to improve waste management, reduce environmental harm, and support sustainable development. Plastic pollution remains a critical concern globally, with microplastics infiltrating soil, water, and air, threatening ecosystems and human health. The ban aligns with international efforts to craft a globally binding treaty on plastic management. Despite broad support from over 100 nations, negotiations face delays due to resistance from some oil-producing countries. Proponents highlight the need for innovation in recycling and stricter policies to curb reliance on virgin plastics. Thailand's daily solid waste production was pegged at roughly 68,434 tonnes in 2021, translating to around 1.03 kilogrammes per person each day. The country is a significant contributor to marine plastic debris, with thousands of tonnes leaking into the oceans annually, impacting marine life along its extensive coastline. With this ban, Thailand aims not only to staunch the flow of foreign plastic waste but also reaffirm its commitment to combating environmental degradation. -- 2025-01-10

Gang leader nabbed in mother-daughter ATM robbery in Bangkok By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Police in Bangkok apprehended a 41 year old man suspected of leading a gang involved in the abduction and robbery of a mother and her daughter. The gang leader allegedly forced the victims to withdraw cash from an ATM before releasing them under the Bhumibol Bridge. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348505-gang-leader-nabbed-in-mother-daughter-atm-robbery-in-bangkok/

Photo courtesy of KhaoSod By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Police in Bangkok apprehended a 41 year old man suspected of leading a gang involved in the abduction and robbery of a mother and her daughter. The gang leader allegedly forced the victims to withdraw cash from an ATM before releasing them under the Bhumibol Bridge. The arrest took place yesterday, January 9, near a medical clinic in Khlong Toei, Bangkok. Gang leader Pichet was arrested under a warrant issued by the Thon Buri Criminal Court on October 10 last year, facing charges of armed robbery causing bodily harm, and unlawful detention. The arrest operation was led by several officers, including Police Lieutenant General Siam Boonsom and Police Major General Wasan Techa-akkarasem. The incident occurred on November 1, 2022, at approximately 4pm. The gang leader, Pichet, along with four accomplices, allegedly threatened the two female victims with a knife, coercing them into withdrawing 13,000 baht from an ATM. Preliminary investigations revealed that Pichet confessed to being persuaded by three friends to participate in the abduction, which took place at a shopping mall in the Rama 2 area. After obtaining the cash, the victims were driven away and released under the Bhumibol Bridge. Pichet was subsequently handed over to Thakham Police Station for further legal proceedings. Police Major General Theeradej urged the public, especially women and teenagers, to remain vigilant to avoid similar incidents. He advised against constant phone usage, which could increase vulnerability to such crimes. Additionally, he recommended avoiding secluded or poorly lit areas, as these may become hotspots for criminal activities, reported KhaoSod. The police officer also suggested avoiding pedestrian overpasses at night, especially those without lighting, and being cautious when using public restrooms alone. In emergencies, he emphasised the importance of quickly contacting the police by dialling 191. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-10

Thai police deliver justice… and noodles to drunken diner By Petch Petpailin Photo via TiKTok/ @phatara_2_66 Two officers from Mueang Suphan Buri Police Station in central Thailand brought smiles to Thai TikTok users after a video of them acting as food delivery riders and buying food for a drunk man went viral. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348503-thai-police-deliver-justice…-and-noodles-to-drunken-diner/