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Power play: Thailand plugs into cutting electricity costs By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post The Government of Thailand is actively exploring methods to reduce electricity costs, as suggested by former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, according to Deputy Prime Minister Pichai Chunhavajira. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348383-power-play-thailand-plugs-into-cutting-electricity-costs/

Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post By Puntid Tantivangphaisal The Government of Thailand is actively exploring methods to reduce electricity costs, as suggested by former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, according to Deputy Prime Minister Pichai Chunhavajira. Responding to Thaksin’s remarks, the de facto leader of the ruling Pheu Thai Party, Pichai noted that Thaksin had assured voters in Chiang Rai of the government’s intention to decrease energy prices to as low as 3.70 baht per unit later this year. Pichai, who also serves as the Finance Minister, stated yesterday, January 8, that the estimated household electricity price from this month until April is 4.15 baht per unit. The government is tasked with finding ways to lower electricity prices to well below 4 baht per unit as part of its policy to alleviate the high living costs faced by residents. However, Pichai mentioned that the specific details regarding this initiative have not yet been discussed, so further comments cannot be made at this point. He also stated that it is uncertain whether tax measures will be employed to reduce electricity costs. The deputy PM emphasised that financial support from the government is not the sole method for reducing electricity prices. There is speculation that the Ministry of Finance might consider reducing the petroleum tax to lower gas prices in the Gulf of Thailand, which serves as a source of energy for electricity generation. However, Pichai said the ministry has not yet reviewed the specifics of such a tax measure. “I can only confirm the government has a policy to take care of the people as we have a goal to reduce the electricity price to less than 4 baht.” Following Thaksin’s suggestion for a lower electricity price, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra remarked on Tuesday, January 7, that reducing the price to 3.70 baht is feasible and emphasised it as a government priority, reported Bangkok Post. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-09

Thai worker allegedly thrown to death by Cambodia call centre scam gang By Petch Petpailin The 25-floor building in Poipet. | Photo via YouTube/ เจาะลึกทั่วไทย Inside Thailand A call centre scam gang allegedly abused and threw a Thai worker from an 18-storey building in Poipet city, Cambodia. The Thai victim was not the first person to have mysteriously died at the location. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348382-thai-worker-allegedly-thrown-to-death-by-cambodia-call-centre-scam-gang/

The 25-floor building in Poipet. | Photo via YouTube/ เจาะลึกทั่วไทย Inside Thailand By Petch Petpailin A call centre scam gang allegedly abused and threw a Thai worker from an 18-storey building in Poipet city, Cambodia. The Thai victim was not the first person to have mysteriously died at the location. The Facebook page Drama-addict reported last night, January 8, that a Thai citizen, whose identity remains undisclosed, fell from the 18-storey building in Poipet and died. This building is reported to serve as the headquarters for a call centre scam gang and a casino. The page claimed that many Thai nationals were tricked into working for the scam gang in this building and another 25-storey building located nearby. Workers were reportedly abused at these locations, and some were allegedly killed by being thrown from the buildings. The administrator of the page later shared a video of the recent fatal incident. In the footage, the deceased was seen falling from the 14th floor of the building. Someone was standing at a window when the deceased fell. Some netizens speculated that the person was pushed, while others suggested the deceased may have been trying to escape danger and had no choice but to jump. The leader of the Police Cyber Taskforce (PCT) operation, Trairong Phewphan, revealed in an interview with Channel 9’s news programme that Thai police issued 165 arrest warrants against suspects linked to the call centre scam operating out of the 25-storey building mentioned by the Drama-addict page. Regarding the 18-storey building, Trairong claimed there was no active scam gang operating there. However, he confirmed that the building was used as accommodation for members of the scam gang. PPTV HD reported that Thai police are now investigating the mysterious deaths of Thai nationals in Poipet. Last year, a Thai man died after falling from the 18-storey building in Poipet at around 9am on August 22. Cambodian officials initially insisted that the deceased was a Cambodian national but the victim’s friends strongly refuted this, asserting that he was Thai. According to these friends, the Thai man was thrown from the building by senior members of the call centre scam gang after he refused to follow their orders. His body was later repatriated to his home province, Kanchanaburi, for a funeral. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-09

ICONSIAM shatters records with Amazing Thailand Countdown 2025 By Thaiger Photo via ICONSIAM ICONSIAM, the global landmark on the Chao Phraya River, through a joint venture of Siam Piwat Group, Charoen Pokphand Group (CP), and Magnolia Quality Development Corporation (MQDC) has announced its historic success. The Amazing Thailand Countdown 2025 at ICONSIAM has cemented Thailand’s place on the global countdown stage, attracting over 1 million attendees across three days and garnering more than 100 million views worldwide. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348381-iconsiam-shatters-records-with-amazing-thailand-countdown-2025/

Photo via ICONSIAM By Thaiger ICONSIAM, the global landmark on the Chao Phraya River, through a joint venture of Siam Piwat Group, Charoen Pokphand Group (CP), and Magnolia Quality Development Corporation (MQDC) has announced its historic success. The Amazing Thailand Countdown 2025 at ICONSIAM has cemented Thailand’s place on the global countdown stage, attracting over 1 million attendees across three days and garnering more than 100 million views worldwide. The countdown event proved to be a significant driver for Thailand’s tourism industry, helping to surpass the annual target of 35 million tourists, injecting over 62 billion baht into the Thai economy. It also spurred unprecedented growth for riverside businesses, with hotel and restaurant bookings along the Chao Phraya River reaching 95 to 100% occupancy and river traffic more than doubling. These achievements further solidify ICONSIAM’s role as a leader in creating experiential world-class destinations and elevating Thailand’s position on the global stage. Managing Director of ICONSIAM Co., Ltd., Supoj Chaiwatsirikul revealed the success of the countdown event. “The grand countdown phenomenon celebrates the best of Thailand and the world, successfully elevating the Amazing Thailand Countdown 2025 at ICONSIAM to become one of the top five countdown destinations globally. It has played a crucial role in driving tourist arrivals to Thailand, surpassing the target of 35 million visitors, an increase of over 26% from the previous year. “This has injected over 62 billion baht into the Thai economy, particularly benefiting all levels of the tourism sector, as evidenced by statistics from the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT). We’ve observed growth across all riverside businesses along the Chao Phraya River, including hotel occupancy rates and riverside restaurant businesses. “On New Year’s Eve specifically, hotel bookings reached 95% to 100% capacity, while river traffic more than doubled, generating record-breaking income for businesses and surrounding communities. This growth has comprehensively benefited local businesses, creating widespread advantages for the community. “ICONSIAM is proud to play a key role in elevating Thailand’s global presence and capturing the hearts of people worldwide. As Thailand’s representative, we have firmly established our countdown event as a favourite among global audiences, reinforcing the nation’s potential as a world-class destination that celebrates Thai heritage on the international stage. “The Amazing Thailand Countdown 2025 at ICONSIAM received tremendous response throughout its three-day, three-night celebration, drawing over one million attendees and garnering over 100 million views from across the globe. The hashtag #AmazingThailandCountdown2025 trended as the No. 1 topic on X (formerly Twitter) throughout the three-day event, surpassing all expectations and positioning Thailand on the global countdown stage in every dimension.” Supoj further emphasised that the success of the Amazing Thailand Countdown 2025 at ICONSIAM has solidified its role as a true leader in creating experiential world-class destinations, placing Thailand on the global map with dignity and excellence through three core strategies. First in people’s hearts The Amazing Thailand Countdown 2025 at ICONSIAM was made possible through significant investment and dedicated efforts to create a grand phenomenon. This was achieved in collaboration with a host of Thai and international artists, as well as leading partners, connecting the hearts of Thai people and capturing the attention of people from around the world. The event delivered joy through music and the radiant spectacle of fireworks along the Chao Phraya River. This beautiful night became a cherished memory for millions worldwide, allowing Thais to welcome the new year with pride, knowing that their nation stands second to none. This magnificent celebration was also broadcast through TV and live streaming across more than 20 platforms, reaching over 50 million viewers and was reported through several TV channels including CNN, BBC, AP, AFP, Reuters, CNBC, ABC, CCTV, South China Morning Post, MBN TV, as well as the Times Square screen in the heart of New York City, garnering over 100 million views from across platforms. It became a widely discussed topic and left an unforgettable impression on audiences worldwide who participated through various channels. First in the hearts of partners and business alliances The success of this countdown event, which attracted over one million attendees, significantly benefited ICONSIAM’s retailers, partners, and business alliances, driving a more than 35% increase in December sales. Additionally, the event had a positive ripple effect on the local economy, particularly for riverside communities and businesses along the Chao Phraya River, as well as the national economy, especially across all levels of the tourism sector. This underscores ICONSIAM’s role as a leader in creating experiential world-class destinations, transcending traditional retail business to foster economic growth. The event contributed to attracting high-quality tourists to Thailand, aligning with the government’s goals and elevating the country’s prestige on the global stage. World’s number one The Amazing Thailand Countdown 2025 at ICONSIAM elevated Thailand’s global reputation, placing it among the top five countdown destinations worldwide. This milestone solidifies Thailand’s prestigious standing on the world stage, showcasing its ability to host events of international acclaim. The success of the Amazing Thailand Countdown 2025 was made possible through collaboration between public and private sectors, including public, private, and governmental agencies. This remarkable collective effort ensured the event’s resounding success, further enhancing Thailand’s position as a leading global destination. The Amazing Thailand Countdown 2025 at ICONSIAM, successfully concluded this year, not only underscores ICONSIAM’s potential as a world-class landmark on the Chao Phraya River but also highlights Thailand’s capability and the power of collaboration between public and private sectors. This united effort serves as a driving force for economic growth, particularly in the tourism sector, ensuring sustainable development. Furthermore, the event has elevated Thailand’s global reputation, showcasing its positive image to tourists worldwide, and firmly positioning the country as a global destination that remains a must-visit for people across the world. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-09

Thailand airports boost biometrics for faster service times By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Phuket Airport The Airports of Thailand (AoT) is enhancing its biometric identification systems to expedite service times at airports. Yesterday, January 8, AoT Director Kerati Kijmanawat confirmed that this system has been implemented at six major international airports managed by AoT, including Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Mae Fah Luang Chiang Rai, and Hat Yai. However, the system currently does not fully support Thai ID cards. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348380-thailand-airports-boost-biometrics-for-faster-service-times/

Picture courtesy of Phuket Airport By Bright Choomanee The Airports of Thailand (AoT) is enhancing its biometric identification systems to expedite service times at airports. Yesterday, January 8, AoT Director Kerati Kijmanawat confirmed that this system has been implemented at six major international airports managed by AoT, including Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Mae Fah Luang Chiang Rai, and Hat Yai. However, the system currently does not fully support Thai ID cards. From January 15, the biometric systems will accommodate ID cards without expiration dates, issued to individuals aged 70 and older. Additionally, the system will be upgraded to support ID cards with names exceeding 20 letters in English. Kerati mentioned that AoT will utilise various technologies to enhance services further. During the new year festival, from December 27 to January 2, Suvarnabhumi Airport recorded 1.4 million passengers, marking a 16.1% increase from the previous year. The airport managed 7,707 flights, representing a 14.3% rise. Don Mueang Airport saw 758,929 passengers, a 27% increase, and 4,914 flights, up 19.2%. ort had 46,190 passengers, up 14.5%, and 318 flights, up 12%. Phuket Airport witnessed a 20.4% increase in passengers, totalling 437,411, and 2,573 flights, up 20.5%. Hat Yai Airport had 66,092 passengers, an 18.2% increase, and 448 flights, up 17.9%. Kerati noted the data reflects a return to normalcy in passenger and flight numbers following challenges during the Covid-19 pandemic. Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit stated that 2.97 million passengers travelled through AoT’s airports during the new year period, a 19.7% increase from the previous year. This included approximately 1.84 million international passengers, up 23.8%, and 1.13 million domestic passengers, a 13.5% rise, reported Bangkok Post. During this period, all six airports operated smoothly without congestion, particularly at Suvarnabhumi Airport. The average service time for international arrivals was 22 minutes, while departures took 28 minutes. Domestic arrivals took about 12 minutes, with departures averaging 16 minutes. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-09

British tourists’ speedboat crashes into Thai mangrove forest - video By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo from screenshot of Daily Mail video A holiday speedboat carrying British tourists on an idyllic island-hopping adventure turned into a nightmare when the vessel smashed into trees in southern Thailand, prompting screams from panicked passengers. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348305-british-tourists’-speedboat-crashes-into-thai-mangrove-forest-video/

Photo from screenshot of Daily Mail video By Puntid Tantivangphaisal A holiday speedboat carrying British tourists on an idyllic island-hopping adventure turned into a nightmare when the vessel smashed into trees in southern Thailand, prompting screams from panicked passengers. The incident occurred on Friday, January 3 during a journey between Koh Lipe and Koh Lanta. Shocking footage shows terrified passengers clinging to their seats as the speedboat hurtled off course, skidding onto land and slicing through a mangrove forest. Derbyshire tourist Ellie Neary recalled the scary incident. “Our speedboat crashed at high speed onto land while travelling between Koh Lipe and Koh Lanta. The driver lost control and smashed into the trees. It was the scariest thing that happened to me on the trip. It was lucky nobody was hurt.” Despite the chaotic crash, which left tourists visibly shaken, there were no serious injuries reported. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-08

Hippo Mascot 'Moo Deng' Boosts Voter Spirit for PAO Elections File photo for reference only The Election Commission (EC) has unveiled Moo Deng, a charming pygmy hippo calf, as the new mascot to energise voter participation for the forthcoming provincial administrative organisation (PAO) elections on 1st February. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348301-hippo-mascot-moo-deng-boosts-voter-spirit-for-pao-elections/

File photo for reference only The Election Commission (EC) has unveiled Moo Deng, a charming pygmy hippo calf, as the new mascot to energise voter participation for the forthcoming provincial administrative organisation (PAO) elections on 1st February. During a lively event held at the Government Complex on Chaeng Watthana Road, EC chairperson Ittiporn Boonprakong introduced the endearing mascot, highlighting Moo Deng's role in reminding citizens that active participation is vital for democracy. It's an innovative approach hoping to draw voters to the polls, which will be open from 8am to 5pm on the election day. In addition to introducing Moo Deng, the EC showcased updates to their Smart Vote app. This upgraded tool offers voters easy access to detailed candidate profiles, enhancing transparency and aiding informed decision-making. Ittiporn is optimistic that the combination of Moo Deng's appeal and the improved app will boost voter engagement, not just in these elections but for future local polls as well. He emphasised, “This initiative aims to cultivate a culture of informed and enthusiastic participation within the community.” -- 2025-01-08

Boxer shorts-clad man blocks Bangkok traffic with Mercedes - video By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Traffic congestion is a common issue in Bangkok, often caused by the sheer volume of vehicles on the roads and accidents and unforeseen incidents which further exacerbates the situation. However, traffic was held up yesterday, January 7, by an unusual cause when a man clad only in boxer shorts parked his convertible Mercedes in the middle of the road and stood outside the car. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348298-boxer-shorts-clad-man-blocks-bangkok-traffic-with-mercedes-video/

Photo courtesy of KhaoSod By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Traffic congestion is a common issue in Bangkok, often caused by the sheer volume of vehicles on the roads and accidents and unforeseen incidents which further exacerbates the situation. However, traffic was held up yesterday, January 7, by an unusual cause when a man clad only in boxer shorts parked his convertible Mercedes in the middle of the road and stood outside the car. TikTok user @aapnakub shared a video taken while driving on the express lane on Vibhavadi Rangsit Road and unexpectedly encountered a traffic jam. Upon reaching the source of the congestion, a Thai man, standing shirtless with only boxer shorts on, was the cause of the commotion after he parked his convertible Mercedes in the middle of the road. The man was just standing there, looking around, baffling other drivers to what he was doing. His actions left many puzzled as to whether he was unwell or creating content, reported KhaoSod. There has been no updated news on whether the police will charge the man for his inappropriate behaviour. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-08

Litter delivery: Thai rider dumps rubbish and dashes in Isaan - video By Petch Petpailin Photo by Mam Mam Vipada via Facebook group/ ขอนแก่นร้องเรียนอะไรบอกไว้ที่นี่ Security camera footage captured a shocking act by a female Thai food delivery rider in the Isaan province of Khon Kaen, who dumped rubbish in the middle of a road outside a restaurant before fleeing the scene. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348295-litter-delivery-thai-rider-dumps-rubbish-and-dashes-in-isaan-video/

Photo by Mam Mam Vipada via Facebook group/ ขอนแก่นร้องเรียนอะไรบอกไว้ที่นี่ By Petch Petpailin Security camera footage captured a shocking act by a female Thai food delivery rider in the Isaan province of Khon Kaen, who dumped rubbish in the middle of a road outside a restaurant before fleeing the scene. The owner of a local restaurant, 45 year old Mam, shared videos and pictures of the incident on Facebook. The rider reportedly committed the act twice on December 30 last year and January 5 this year. Mam and her family insisted they did not know the woman personally and had no prior conflicts with her. In the footage, the delivery rider, wearing a green company jacket and a cat-ear motorcycle helmet, was seen pulling trash out of a plastic bag and scattering it on the road outside Mam’s restaurant. She then poured water over the pile of rubbish before immediately leaving the scene. In one instance, the rider even placed a training shoe on the road alongside the trash for no apparent reason. Locals who witnessed her actions were heard confronting her, to which she boldly responded… “This is a public road. I will do this. What’s the problem?” Residents in the Khon Kaen area commented on the viral post, claiming that the same delivery rider had carried out similar acts in other communities. In an interview with Channel 7, Mam revealed that she reported the rider’s actions to all the delivery platforms she worked for and filed a complaint with Mueang Khon Kaen Police Station. Unfair Thai laws blamed Mam emphasised that she has been running her restaurant for three years and had never had issues with delivery riders or neighbours before. Channel 7 also interviewed the delivery rider, who claimed that her actions were a form of retaliation. She alleged that Mam’s husband had disrespected her by sitting with his feet pointed at her while she picked up food from the restaurant. To retaliate, she dumped rubbish outside the restaurant and left the training shoe pointing at the restaurant as seen in the videos. The rider insisted that she was the victim in the situation, claiming Thai laws were unfair. She argued that the police should fine others who litter on public roads, not just her. She also shared an example of what she considered an unfair system. She said she was injured in a car accident, but the person who hit her paid just 300 baht in compensation. Police allegedly failed to provide her with justice. She contrasted her case with the swift proceedings of cases involving wealthy or famous people. Mueang Khon Kaen Police Station officers stated they would issue a summons for the rider again. If she fails to respond, an arrest warrant will be issued. The food delivery rider faces a fine of 2,000 baht for violating the Public Health Act. As of now, no additional charges have been filed against her. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-08

Pattaya poker face-off: Cops bust beachside card game By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail A clandestine poker game involving foreigners and Thai nationals in Pattaya was busted by police in a dramatic raid near Jomtien Beach. The illegal gambling operation, disguised as a beer bar, was exposed on Monday, January 6, after officers acted on a tip-off. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348294-pattaya-poker-face-off-cops-bust-beachside-card-game/

Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail By Puntid Tantivangphaisal A clandestine poker game involving foreigners and Thai nationals in Pattaya was busted by police in a dramatic raid near Jomtien Beach. The illegal gambling operation, disguised as a beer bar, was exposed on Monday, January 6, after officers acted on a tip-off. Officers from the Chon Buri Immigration Police, led by Police Colonel Napassapong Kositsuriyamani, uncovered seven foreigners, including Australians, Russians, Americans, and British, engrossed in a high-stakes poker game. Thai accomplices were reportedly managing the game and distributing cards. The seemingly innocent bar had been operating as a façade, with poker tables hidden in its upper floors. Law enforcement seized multiple decks of cards, a poker table, and cash during the raid. In total, 12 individuals, both Thai and foreign nationals, were arrested and transported to Pattaya City Police Station for further legal action. This is the latest in a series of crackdowns aimed at illegal gambling in Thailand, a country where such activities are strictly prohibited under the law. Police are continuing their investigations to determine if the venue is linked to a larger network of illegal gambling rings, reported Pattaya Mail. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-08

Road rage: Trucker clash ignites over middle finger in Songkhla By Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ Ting Chukamnued A roadblock and a rude middle finger gesture led to an altercation between a Thai truck driver and another man on a road in the southern province of Songkhla. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348293-road-rage-trucker-clash-ignites-over-middle-finger-in-songkhla/

Photo via Facebook/ Ting Chukamnued By Petch Petpailin A roadblock and a rude middle finger gesture led to an altercation between a Thai truck driver and another man on a road in the southern province of Songkhla. Facebook user Ting Chukamnued shared videos of the altercation on the road on January 7, with a caption that read, “Thanks to the owner of the videos. Let him know that this is not a parking area. So satisfying! Hahaha.” The videos were taken from the truck’s dashcam. The truck driver was heard honking the horn at a red sedan parked in the left lane. He honked repeatedly and for a long period, but the driver appeared to ignore it. The man in the yellow shirt with red stripes, who was carrying items from a roadside store to the back of the sedan, then walked in front of the truck and raised his middle finger at the truck driver. The rude gesture led the truck driver to accelerate his vehicle and approach the man in the yellow shirt in anger. They argued briefly before a physical altercation ensued. The man attempted to punch the truck driver in the face but failed. The truck driver appeared to have the upper hand in the fight, putting his opponent on the ground before a female sedan driver intervened. Another elderly woman, believed to be a vendor on the footpath, sided with the man in the yellow shirt and came to complain to the truck driver. Both parties at fault The argument and physical altercation were eventually stopped after a police officer arrived at the scene. It is unclear whether either party faced legal consequences for their actions. Most netizens sided with the truck driver, arguing that the man and the sedan driver broke traffic laws and had not realised their fault by raising their middle finger at the truck driver. “Hey, the man who raised the middle finger. Have you ever seen your video? You’ll be embarrassed for the rest of your life.” “That’s impressive. Doesn’t he think he’d escape easily after raising his finger like that?” “He doesn’t even know that what he was doing was wrong. He deserved it.” “If he’d just told the truck driver he needed a few more minutes, this wouldn’t have happened. Anyway, he chose to raise that finger.” Some suggested that the truck driver should not have used violence, regardless of the situation. A netizen with legal knowledge noted that both men may have been charged under Section 372 of the Criminal Code for quarrelling loudly in a public place, which could result in a fine of up to 5,000 baht. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-08

Prehistoric Skeletons Unearthed in Thai Village - Archaeologists Investigate File photo for reference only Villagers in Khon Kaen, Thailand have stumbled upon a significant archaeological find: prehistoric human skeletons, raising the prospect of an ancient settlement. The Fine Arts Department is currently examining the remains discovered opposite the Phu Wiang Dinosaur Museum in Wiang Kao district. The skeletons, estimated to be 1,500 to 2,500 years old, were unearthed on January 4 as locals prepared land for cassava cultivation. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348292-prehistoric-skeletons-unearthed-in-thai-village-archaeologists-investigate/

File photo for reference only Villagers in Khon Kaen, Thailand have stumbled upon a significant archaeological find: prehistoric human skeletons, raising the prospect of an ancient settlement. The Fine Arts Department is currently examining the remains discovered opposite the Phu Wiang Dinosaur Museum in Wiang Kao district. The skeletons, estimated to be 1,500 to 2,500 years old, were unearthed on January 4 as locals prepared land for cassava cultivation. Led by Thipawan Wong-assapai from the Fine Arts Office 8, archaeologists visited the site where the skeletons lay preserved. The 140-centimetre skeleton was found in a burial posture, with its head facing west, and mostly eroded except for the skull and teeth. Pottery shards were also present, suggesting a possible habitation site from the prehistoric era, similar to other known sites in the region like Non Nok Tha. The site’s location on a high mound near a water stream hints at a historic human settlement. Such discoveries continue to enrich Thailand's archaeological tapestry, akin to renowned sites including Ban Chiang and Spirit Cave. These sites highlight Thailand’s ancient past, illuminating early human activities such as metallurgy and agriculture. Arthit Kot-yoti, who first found the skeletons, was preparing his land when he discovered human teeth, compelling him to investigate further and eventually uncover a human skull. His find has sparked the attention of local authorities and archaeologists, who now aim to explore this newfound site. Future excavations might yield further insights into prehistoric life in Thailand, requiring careful planning and consultation with stakeholders. This accidental discovery offers a fascinating glimpse into the ancient world, reflecting the region's rich prehistoric heritage. -- 2025-01-08

Bangkok's Charan Sanit Wong Flyover Shutdown: Expect Two Years' Delay File photo for reference only The flyover on Bangkok's Charan Sanit Wong Road has been closed as of 10pm Monday, January 6, to make way for the Orange Line electric railway development. This closure is a significant step in the construction of the Bang Khun Non-underground station, located at the busy intersection of Charan Sanitwong Road, Liap Thang Rotfai Taling Chan Road, and Sutthawat Road. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348291-bangkoks-charan-sanit-wong-flyover-shutdown-expect-two-years-delay/

File photo for reference only The flyover on Bangkok's Charan Sanit Wong Road has been closed as of 10pm Monday, January 6, to make way for the Orange Line electric railway development. This closure is a significant step in the construction of the Bang Khun Non-underground station, located at the busy intersection of Charan Sanitwong Road, Liap Thang Rotfai Taling Chan Road, and Sutthawat Road. With the flyover expected to remain shut for a minimum of two years, the Mass Rapid Transit Authority (MRTA) has announced plans for reconstruction starting in December 2026, with a target completion date in June 2028. Throughout this period, traffic will be limited to just one inbound and one outbound lane on Liap Thang Rotfai Taling Chan Road and Sutthawat Road. To manage the anticipated traffic congestion, the MRTA has provided alternative routes. Motorists from Ratchapruek Road en route to Siriraj Hospital are advised to navigate via Borommaratchachonnani Road, proceed to Somdet Phra Pin Klao Road, and then onto Arun Amarin Road. An alternative involves using Phran Nok–Phutthamonthon Sai 4 Road, Phran Nok Road, and Wang Lang Road. For travellers starting from Liap Thang Rotfai Taling Chan Road, the route through Chim Phli Road, Kaeo Ngoen Thong, and Soi Charan Sanitwong 35, leading onto Wang Lang Road, is recommended. The MRTA has reaffirmed its commitment to prioritising public safety while mitigating environmental and traffic disruptions as this major infrastructure project progresses. -- 2025-01-08

Woman Impersonates Police, Swindles Over 400k Baht in Thai Scam File photo for reference only Officers at Mueang Narathiwat Police Station in southern Thailand are on the hunt for Fatina Nanta-ariyakun, a 21-year-old woman accused of impersonating a police captain and swindling over 400,000 baht from a Thai man. Fatina, who met the victim via a dating app in late 2023, assumed the identity of Police Captain Phitchayanit Boonyaratkalin and backed her claim with counterfeit documentation. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348290-woman-impersonates-police-swindles-over-400k-baht-in-thai-scam/