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Thailand Dazzles at Harbin Festival with Cultural Spectacle - video File photo for reference only Thailand has made a significant impact at the Harbin Ice and Snow Festival, captivating attendees with a vibrant cultural showcase and a stunning photo exhibition. Organised by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), the Thai Charm display is part of the Nihao! China: China Ice and Snow Tourism Overseas Promotion Season 2025. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348171-thailand-dazzles-at-harbin-festival-with-cultural-spectacle/

File photo for reference only Thailand has made a significant impact at the Harbin Ice and Snow Festival, captivating attendees with a vibrant cultural showcase and a stunning photo exhibition. Organised by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), the Thai Charm display is part of the Nihao! China: China Ice and Snow Tourism Overseas Promotion Season 2025. Starting on January 5 and concluding on January 8, the festival celebrates the friendship between Thailand and China. TAT governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool inaugurated the event, highlighting the exhibition's role in promoting Thailand to Chinese tourists. "The exhibits show Thailand's charm and aim to inspire Chinese visitors, crucial to our ambition of attracting 39 million international tourists in 2025," Kiatphaibool stated. The highlight, the Thai Charm Photo Exhibition, offers a visual journey through Thailand’s rich cultural heritage and exciting travel experiences. Focused on the "5 Must Do in Thailand" theme, the exhibition explores the country's exquisite cuisine, hidden treasures, unique activities, and renowned hospitality. Adding to the allure, live performances showcased Thailand’s cultural diversity, from enthralling southern dances to vibrant central processions and Isaan-style music with accompanying umbrella dances. These live acts presented a spirited blend of tradition and modernity. With 40,000 daily visitors, the festival provides TAT a substantial platform to entice affluent Chinese tourists to explore Thailand. Looking forward, TAT hinted at an elaborate Chinese New Year celebration in Bangkok’s Chinatown, aligning with the Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year 2025 initiative. -- 2025-01-07

Thailand's Economy Poised for Boost as Chinese New Year Nears File photo for reference only Thailand's economy is gearing up for a substantial boost this Chinese New Year, with spending anticipated to rise over 3%, as reported by the Economic and Business Forecasting Centre of the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce. The country's economic outlook is buoyant thanks to government incentives, a rebounding tourist sector, and, notably, an influx of Chinese visitors. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348169-thailands-economy-poised-for-boost-as-chinese-new-year-nears/

File photo for reference only Thailand's economy is gearing up for a substantial boost this Chinese New Year, with spending anticipated to rise over 3%, as reported by the Economic and Business Forecasting Centre of the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce. The country's economic outlook is buoyant thanks to government incentives, a rebounding tourist sector, and, notably, an influx of Chinese visitors. According to Thanawat Phonwichai, President of the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce, the scene during recent new year festivities was thriving. This lively atmosphere is expected to carry into Chinese New Year celebrations, driven by substantial spending from both locals and tourists. The festival spending during the recent new year was already up by 3.2%, reaching 109.3 billion baht. Similar growth is forecasted for the upcoming festivities. Government initiatives like direct cash transfers to farmers and pensioners, along with the Easy E-Receipt tax deduction programme for purchases up to 50,000 baht, are fueling domestic expenditure. Meanwhile, the tourism sector is experiencing a resurgence with Chinese tourist numbers expected to scale back to pre-pandemic levels, potentially hitting 10 million visitors this year. The economic boost offered by the surge in tourism and consumer spending aligns with Thailand’s projected 3% economic growth, contingent on maintaining stability and avoiding disruptions such as trade conflicts. The Thai government remains optimistic about reinforcing growth through well-targeted economic stimulus, strategic investments, and sound debt management practices, setting a positive tone for the year ahead. -- 2025-01-07

Playground stabbing in Samut Prakan after drunken argument By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod An altercation between two friends at a playground in Praeksa Mai subdistrict, Mueang Samut Prakan district, led to a stabbing incident. Yesterday, January 6, at 7pm, Bang Pu police in Samut Prakan responded to a report of a man being stabbed during an argument. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348167-playground-stabbing-in-samut-prakan-after-drunken-argument/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod By Bright Choomanee An altercation between two friends at a playground in Praeksa Mai subdistrict, Mueang Samut Prakan district, led to a stabbing incident. Yesterday, January 6, at 7pm, Bang Pu police in Samut Prakan responded to a report of a man being stabbed during an argument. At the scene, they found 38 year old Aui with a severe stab wound to his back. Emergency personnel provided first aid before taking him to Samut Prakan Hospital. The attacker, 36 year old Yo, was intoxicated and was apprehended with a short knife and a homemade pen gun. Both Yo and the weapons were handed over to investigators, reported KhaoSod. The initial investigation revealed that Yo and Aui, who are co-workers, had been drinking together. Aui’s remarks about Yo’s wife allegedly provoked Yo, who in his anger went home to retrieve the knife and pen gun. Returning to the group, Yo aimed the gun at Aui’s head and pulled the trigger but it failed to fire. He then used the knife to stab Aui in the back. As Yo attempted to flee, other workers managed to restrain him and alerted the police. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-07

Thai mother condemns restaurant after hot soup spills on 4 year old son - video By Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ ToKo A Thai mother condemned workers at a restaurant in Nonthaburi province near Bangkok after a worker accidentally spilled hot soup on her four year old son’s arm on Saturday. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348164-thai-mother-condemns-restaurant-after-hot-soup-spills-on-4-year-old-son/

Photo via Facebook/ ToKo By Petch Petpailin A Thai mother condemned workers at a restaurant in Nonthaburi province near Bangkok after a worker accidentally spilled hot soup on her four year old son’s arm on Saturday. The 44 year old veterinarian, Chorphet, shared her family’s story with the public, hoping that the restaurant would take appropriate action regarding the incident. The accident occurred at the Shabu-Shabu restaurant in the Ngamwongwan area of Nonthaburi at around 1.30pm on Saturday, January 4. Chorphet explained that she visited the restaurant with her husband and their son, Elon. While waiting for their meal, she ordered ice cream for her son, who sat at the table enjoying his dessert. Chorphet recounted noticing that restaurant workers repeatedly carried pots of hot soup past her son from behind. The pots were uncovered, and the narrow walkway behind Elon left little room for movement. Concerned, she asked the staff to exercise caution to avoid spilling soup over her son’s head. Her fears were ultimately realised when a transgender staff member carrying a pot of soup passed by her son again. A female customer accidentally bumped into the worker, causing the soup to spill onto Elon’s arm. Her husband immediately wiped away the hot liquid, while the worker appeared too shocked to assist. Other restaurant staff attended to Elon, who was crying out in pain. Although the transgender worker and the restaurant manager apologised, it was insincere and half-hearted according to Chorphet. Lack of sympathy The staff then resumed their duties as though nothing had happened, leaving Chorphet and her husband to rush Elon to the hospital. Chorphet later filed a complaint against the restaurant. The transgender worker, the manager, and other staff members were summoned to the Mueang Nonthaburi Police Station to address the case. They promised to compensate the family but Chorphet declined monetary compensation. Chorphet emphasised that her primary concern was the lack of care and safety shown by the restaurant staff. She urged the restaurant owner to implement stricter safety measures and ensure greater caution when serving hot dishes. At present, Chorphet refused all compensation and apologies, insisting on pursuing legal action to hold the worker accountable. The police have yet to disclose the official charges against the transgender worker. However, under Section 390 of Thailand’s Criminal Law, the worker could face a penalty of up to one month’s imprisonment, a fine of up to 10,000 baht, or both, for committing a reckless act that caused injury. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-07

Missing Thai woman found after six days following abduction claim By Petch Petpailin Photo via Instagram The Be One organisation located a missing 26 year old Thai woman in the southern province of Phetchaburi last night, January 6, after she informed friends that she was abducted by two men and went missing for six days. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348099-missing-woman-alice-abducted-6-days-ago-sparks-concern/#findComment-19496861

Missing Thai woman found after six days following abduction claim By Petch Petpailin Photo via Instagram The Be One organisation located a missing 26 year old Thai woman in the southern province of Phetchaburi last night, January 6, after she informed friends that she was abducted by two men and went missing for six days. The public became aware of the disappearance of the 26 year old woman, Arissara “Alice” Srichathum, after Facebook page Tudd Entertain shared a missing person’s poster yesterday. The post revealed that Alice had gone missing on January 2 after telling her colleagues she would be taking leave due to depression. Later that evening, Alice sent farewell messages to all her friends, claiming that two men abducted her. She said they took her to Prachuap Police Station in the southern province of Prachuap Khiri Khan. However, Alice did not make further contact with anyone and subsequently disappeared. Friends and colleagues attempted to contact Alice’s parents but were unsuccessful. After six days of searching, they sought the help of Tudd Entertain to publicise her disappearance. The friends provided details of Alice’s appearance to the media, describing her as having fair skin, brown-red hair, a height of 160 centimetres, and a slender build. The Be One organisation then stepped in to assist. The organisation’s founder, Chalida “Ton Or” Palamart, updated her Facebook account last night, announcing that Alice finally contacted a friend to inform them she was in Phetchaburi province. Chalida and other members of the organisation travelled to Phetchaburi that night to bring Alice back to Bangkok. However, Alice was reportedly not ready to discuss her disappearance or travels, citing her unstable mental health. KhaoSod reported that Alice is now undergoing physical and mental health checks at a hospital. Further details are expected to be released following her questioning by the police. Speculation among netizens remains divided. Some believe Alice simply sought isolation and an escape due to her mental health struggles, while others suspect she may have been abducted for unknown reasons. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-07

Bangkok cleans up act: Street vendors get the boot in Pathumwan By Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Iron Chef Shellie In a bid to spruce up the bustling streets of Bangkok and make them safer for pedestrians, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has given street vendors the boot from two major hotspots in the Pathumwan district. Ploenchit Road in Ton Son and the bustling area outside the Siam Scape building are the targets. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348163-bangkok-cleans-up-act-street-vendors-get-the-boot-in-pathumwan/

Picture courtesy of Iron Chef Shellie By Bob Scott In a bid to spruce up the bustling streets of Bangkok and make them safer for pedestrians, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has given street vendors the boot from two major hotspots in the Pathumwan district. Ploenchit Road in Ton Son and the bustling area outside the Siam Scape building are the targets. Gone are the days when 17 vendors lined the sidewalks of Ploenchit Road, and another nine operated in front of the Siam Scape building. These spots have been declared strictly vendor-free since January 1, according to the BMA. But that’s not where the vendor shake-up stops. The BMA has its sights set on tidying up the area around the iconic Erawan Shrine at Ratchaprasong intersection, where three flower vendors are being asked to fall in line and ease the traffic congestion. While some have been shown the door, others still hold their ground. In Pathumwan district alone, 222 vendors have the green light to operate in 13 designated zones. Two hawker centres were previously set up at Lumpini Park Gate 5 and Ratchadamri intersection, offering a haven for 122 vendors. On Monday, Deputy Bangkok Governor Jakkapan Phiewngam, flanked by Supakrit Boonkhan, the BMA’s deputy permanent secretary, took a stroll down these sites, inspecting vendors in both Pathumwan and the neighbouring Bang Rak district to ensure everyone’s playing by the rules. And they’ve been busy before. Last October saw a street vending ban sweep through a section of Silom Road, from Silom Soi 12 to the Shangarila restaurant, with vendors moved to Silom Soi 10. Over in Bang Rak, it’s still business as usual for 618 street vendors operating across 32 areas, reported Bangkok Post. But Governor Jakkapan has made it crystal clear that local officers should crack down on unauthorised vending and keep those who are allowed in line with the rules on public order and hygiene. It seems like Bangkok’s streets are being scrubbed up, with vendors either finding new homes or shaping up to fit the city’s cleaner, more orderly image. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-07

Monkey business: 100 macaques to be neutered in south Bangkok By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Bang Khun Thian district chief Passara Natheethong announced that up to 100 macaques in the south Bangkok district will be neutered this month as part of an ongoing initiative to control their population in the district. Last year, 122 macaques underwent the procedure. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348162-monkey-business-100-macaques-to-be-neutered-in-south-bangkok/

Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Bang Khun Thian district chief Passara Natheethong announced that up to 100 macaques in the south Bangkok district will be neutered this month as part of an ongoing initiative to control their population in the district. Last year, 122 macaques underwent the procedure. Around 330 macaques are estimated to roam freely in three locations: the Khun Kala Monument, the Thian Thalay community, and the Ua Samae Dam Arthorn housing estate. The latter hosts the highest number, with 136 macaques. Officials from the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP) are conducting the sterilisations after consulting local communities on measures for peaceful cohabitation with the macaques. The new population control strategy will be implemented in three phases, with population control as the central phase. In the short term, designated feeding spots have been established to prevent the animals from straying and grabbing food from passers-by and residents. Leftover fruit and vegetables are being supplied by residents and market vendors at these locations. Passara mentioned that the DNP will offer financial compensation to individuals injured by macaques. In the medium term, the sterilisation efforts will persist, with the neutered macaques being registered. For the long term, Passara stated that the district aims to relocate the macaques to a 12-rai vacant plot purchased by City Hall in 2007, which is being developed into a macaque conservation centre. The project, however, necessitates funding and manpower, reported Bangkok Post. Additionally, a public hearing is planned to gather feedback from residents living near the site. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-07

Bangkok braces for rising PM2.5 pollution levels By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod The Centre for Air Pollution Mitigation issued a warning about increasing PM2.5 pollution levels in Bangkok and its vicinity from January 6 to 10. This rise is due to cold air masses from northeastern Thailand, causing stagnant air that traps pollutants. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348161-bangkok-braces-for-rising-pm25-pollution-levels/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod By Bright Choomanee The Centre for Air Pollution Mitigation issued a warning about increasing PM2.5 pollution levels in Bangkok and its vicinity from January 6 to 10. This rise is due to cold air masses from northeastern Thailand, causing stagnant air that traps pollutants. Information from the Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA) on January 5 identified 490 hotspots across Thailand. These hotspots include 171 in rice fields, 110 in forests, 73 in other agricultural areas, 44 in sugarcane fields, 20 in cornfields, and 72 in other locations. The 15 provinces with the highest number of hotspots are Lop Buri with 48, Chaiyaphum with 35, Kalasin with 31, Nakhon Sawan with 30, Saraburi with 25, Nakhon Ratchasima with 24, Phetchabun with 18, Kanchanaburi with 18, Chon Buri with 18, Khon Kaen with 17, Prachin Buri with 15, Chiang Rai with 14, Phichit with 13, Maha Sarakham with 13, and Nakhon Nayok with 11. The centre has coordinated with relevant agencies and provinces to monitor and strictly control burning activities. The PM2.5 pollution issue, which occurs during the end and beginning of the year, is influenced by meteorological conditions and sources of pollutants. Officials are urging collaboration from all sectors to mitigate pollution at its source, whether in urban areas, agricultural lands, or forests. This effort aims to reduce the severity of PM2.5 pollution and protect public health, particularly for vulnerable groups like the sick, children, the elderly, and pregnant women, reported KhaoSod. Residents are encouraged to monitor their health and check air quality before leaving their homes. They can access air quality forecasts and updates via the Air4Thai website and app, as well as the Centre for Air Pollution Mitigation’s social media platforms and related agencies. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-07

Samut Songkhram teenagers arrested for firing Uzi in new year celebration By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Seven teenagers from Samut Songkhram were apprehended after celebrating the new year by firing an Uzi submachine gun along a roadside. Following their arrest, the group issued a public apology, vowing not to repeat their actions. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348160-samut-songkhram-teenagers-arrested-for-firing-uzi-in-new-year-celebration/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod By Bright Choomanee Seven teenagers from Samut Songkhram were apprehended after celebrating the new year by firing an Uzi submachine gun along a roadside. Following their arrest, the group issued a public apology, vowing not to repeat their actions. The incident gained attention when a Facebook user shared a video of five teenagers firing guns, including the Uzi, as part of their new year celebrations. The post also included the message Happy Thai New Year and was tagged at Phuang Malai Temple, suggesting the teenagers were locals. The video, which has since been removed, caused fear among viewers. Yesterday, January 6, at 2pm, at the Samut Songkhram Provincial Police Headquarters, Police Major General Sompop Kuhawichanant, the Commander of Samut Songkhram Provincial Police, and Police Colonel Sayam Insuwanono, Superintendent of Mueang Samut Songkhram Police Station, announced the arrests. The individuals involved were identified as 47 year old Paitoon, 26 year old Thanyatep, 28 year old Thanyathorn, 26 year old Wayu, 37 year old Naret, 26 year old Jakkrit, and 21 year old Surachai. They were found with six blank-firing guns. Pol. Maj. Gen. Sompop explained that the incident occurred on the roadside near Wat Phuang Malai, in the Mueang district of Samut Songkhram, during the transition from 2024 to 2025. After the event, Mueang Samut Songkhram Police investigators identified the suspects and obtained a search warrant from the Samut Songkhram Provincial Court, dated January 3, to search a house in the area. The search revealed no illegal items. Later that day, at 9.45am, the suspects contacted the police to surrender their firearms, which were identified as blank-firing guns. The police recorded the seizure and fined each individual 500 baht (US$14) for causing a public nuisance without reasonable cause. The teenagers assured that they would not engage in such behaviour again. The group expressed regret for their actions, explaining that they had been drinking to celebrate the new year, which led to reckless behaviour. They admitted to purchasing the blank guns online and firing them in a moment of excitement, not anticipating the ensuing trouble, reported KhaoSod. After posting the video online, they realised their mistake and removed it approximately three hours later. They apologised to the community for the alarm caused by their actions. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-07

Heavy plans: ‘Fat’ Aussie dad jets to Thailand to shed the load By Bob Scott Picture courtesy of The Daily Mail A “fat” Aussie dad is set to embark on a weight loss journey quite like no other after some cutting remarks by one of his children. Jimmy Mitchell is packing his bags and leaving behind his wife and two young sons for a ten-week stint in Thailand, all in the name of shedding pounds. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348159-heavy-plans-‘fat’-aussie-dad-jets-to-thailand-to-shed-the-load/

Picture courtesy of The Daily Mail By Bob Scott A “fat” Aussie dad is set to embark on a weight loss journey quite like no other after some cutting remarks by one of his children. Jimmy Mitchell is packing his bags and leaving behind his wife and two young sons for a ten-week stint in Thailand, all in the name of shedding pounds. The radical retreat comes after a frank comment from one of his two children about his size hit home, sparking a fierce drive to transform his physique. The 38 year old from Western Australia, has been candid about his weight struggles since leaving the navy in 2011, a concern that’s only grown since becoming a dad nine years ago. “Being overweight slowly chips away at your mental health.” A particularly stinging remark from one of his sons, branding him “fat,” lingered on his mind, reinforcing his decision to take drastic action. “It’s tough setting a good example for the kids about health and fitness when I’m not in the best shape and feel out of breath playing sports with them.” To tackle this head-on, he’s plunged headfirst into an intense physical fitness programme, under the watchful eyes of Muay Thai masters. The challenging regimen will see him exercising for four hours daily, split into two rigorous sessions. To add an extra kick to his training, the father of two’s itinerary features running distances ranging from 5 to 10 kilometres, engaging in shadowboxing, sparring with partners, and other heart-pounding cardio workouts. Having lived in South East Asia with his wife Pauline and sons Liam, nine, and Riley, eight, for the past two years, Jimmy is no stranger to change and has currently stationed his family in Malaysia. “My weight has crept up slowly. Four years ago, I tipped the scales at 126 kilogrammes, the heaviest I’ve ever been. I’m now around 118kg. When I joined the navy in 2004, I was 68kg. By 2011, I’d reached 89kg but was considerably fitter.” The Aussie, who co-founded the digital marketing agency My Online Guy, admitted his weight concerns are not just superficial. He believes they tie into a deeper anxiety about his family’s history with diabetes. “Emotionally, my weight has weighed heavily on me. When I go to the beach, I feel self-conscious, opting to wear a singlet.” His weight has also held him back during family getaways, as his bulk has often sidelined him from participating in certain activities. “My family has adapted, but it’s been disheartening for me.” Currently, Jimmy manages to work out two to three times a week, dabbling in Muay Thai for the past 18 months. His daily routine kicks off with a protein shake followed by a hectic day managing business tasks, which, he admits, hasn’t helped his battle against the bulge. With dietary habits including wraps for lunch and diverse dinners ranging from chicken and beef dishes to local Malaysian cuisine, his lifestyle in Malaysia lays the groundwork for his Thai transformation venture, the Daily Mail reported. While staying in Thailand, Jimmy has set two primary goals: to participate in a professional Muay Thai fight and to shed at least 15kg. “I want to prove to myself and others that I can achieve this, even at my age. The fight will be a catalyst for getting into shape. I want to be ready.” His wife Pauline was notably supportive when Jimmy floated the idea of heading to Thailand alone, fully aware of his body image struggles. Her concerns leaned more towards his participation in the fight rather than his extended absence. The couple charted their course for a life abroad after struggling to attain a comfortable lifestyle in Australia, selling all their possessions to make the leap. Jimmy had previously confided to FEMAIL about the relentless grind back home, which often left him feeling like progress was elusive – a stress that occasionally brought him to tears. Leaving Australia During their time in Australia, Jimmy and Pauline rented a house in Mandurah, south of Perth, but found saving for a deposit hard, despite long work hours. “The real reason we chose to travel full-time was to enhance our quality of life and spend more time as a family.” The couple hasn’t looked back since uprooting their lives and isn’t sure if they’ll ever settle permanently in Australia again, said Jimmy “In Australia, our earnings were decent, but we never felt like we were truly advancing.” The stress, compounded by business demands, left the family drained, with Jimmy often voicing his frustration. Pauline echoes the sentiment, describing their past life as a monotonous cycle. “Every day felt repetitive; even our weekends, meant for family leisure, often fizzled out. Quick getaways were overshadowed by business responsibilities and constant communication from staff and clients.” Now, with a fresh start on the horizon, Jimmy is determined to turn the page and all eyes are on his bold mission to come back lighter, fitter, and ready to embrace his family with renewed vigour. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-07

Thai woman warns of credit card fraud after Bangkok onsen visit By Petch Petpailin Photo by Helcim Payments via Unsplash A Thai woman issued a warning after nearly losing 85,900 baht in credit card fraud following a visit to an onsen in Bangkok. The incident has since gone viral on social media, prompting more victims to come forward. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348082-thai-woman-warns-of-credit-card-fraud-after-bangkok-onsen-visit/

Photo by Helcim Payments via Unsplash By Petch Petpailin A Thai woman issued a warning after nearly losing 85,900 baht in credit card fraud following a visit to an onsen in Bangkok. The incident has since gone viral on social media, prompting more victims to come forward. The woman, who has chosen to remain anonymous, yesterday, January 5, shared her story with the Facebook page Drama-addict. She revealed that both her credit card and debit card were stolen during her visit to the onsen in Bangkok, though only her credit card was used fraudulently. According to the victim, she arrived at the onsen at 3pm and stayed until 5.15pm, storing her belongings in a locker. Among the items placed inside were her iPhone 15, a designer handbag, and her wallet. The locker, secured with a wristband, appeared tightly locked when she checked it before using the facilities. The woman stated that no other items were taken apart from her Kasikorn Bank credit and debit cards. She discovered the fraud later that evening, at around 9pm, after having dinner with friends. Upon checking her phone, she saw notifications indicating her credit card was used at a location named Mee Ter Nonthaburi TH, which she did not recognise. The card was charged three times: 49,000 baht, 29,000 baht, and 7,900 baht, totalling 85,900 baht – the full credit limit of the card. When the woman checked her belongings, she found that the stolen cards were missing, while two other credit cards in a separate pocket of her bag were untouched. Fortunately, the bank froze the transactions, preventing her from losing the money. The victim urged others, particularly foreigners who frequently use the onsen, to be cautious. However, it remains unclear whether the onsen was directly involved in the fraud. The Drama-addict page later reported that more victims came forward, claiming to have experienced similar incidents. One victim reportedly lost over 200,000 baht. Many commenters on the post shared that their friends encountered similar cases. One noted that his friend’s credit card was used at a location named Plearn Plearn shortly after visiting the same onsen. Netizens have called on Thai banks to implement stricter security measures to protect customers, while others urged authorities to take the matter seriously to prevent further incidents. The onsen has yet to make a statement on the incident. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-06

Former PM Thaksin Shinawatra Advocates Legalising Online Gambling in Thailand Photo: The Pattaya News In a recent speech in the Mae Chan district, former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra put forward a controversial proposal to legalise online gambling in Thailand. Mr. Thaksin argues that by regulating the activity with strict guidelines, age restrictions, and appropriate taxes, the government could effectively diminish the thriving underground market. It's a bold move aimed at controlling a trend increasingly occupied by approximately 2.5 to 4 million Thai residents on a daily basis. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348074-former-pm-thaksin-shinawatra-advocates-legalising-online-gambling-in-thailand/

Photo: The Pattaya News In a recent speech in the Mae Chan district, former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra put forward a controversial proposal to legalise online gambling in Thailand. Mr. Thaksin argues that by regulating the activity with strict guidelines, age restrictions, and appropriate taxes, the government could effectively diminish the thriving underground market. It's a bold move aimed at controlling a trend increasingly occupied by approximately 2.5 to 4 million Thai residents on a daily basis. Currently, online gambling in Thailand operates outside the law, often linked to wider issues such as fake banking accounts and personal data theft. Mr. Thaksin's proposal includes instituting an age limit of 20 years and older for participants and providing medical treatment options for those struggling with addiction. Support for the proposal has emerged from the Thai government, with Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Digital Economy and Society, Mr. Prasert Chantharungthong, recognising the social issues stemming from online gambling. Mr. Prasert noted the potential economic benefits through tax revenue and urged an examination of legal adjustments necessary for regulation. The Ministry of Digital Economy and Society is reportedly working on legislative proposals to bring Mr. Thaksin's vision to fruition. However, Mr. Prasert emphasised that further discussions are required on implementing age restrictions and addiction treatments. The debate surrounding legalising online gambling touches on broader societal and economic concerns in Thailand. It mirrors efforts in other nations where regulation seeks to curtail illegal operations while generating public revenue. As discussions progress, the Thai government and citizens alike will be watching closely to see how this proposal develops, reported The Pattaya News. -- 2025-01-06

Thaksin Under Fire: Racist Remarks in Chiang Rai Spark Outrage File photo for reference only Controversy erupted in Thailand as former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra faced sharp criticism for his recent remarks made during an election campaign event in Chiang Rai province. On Sunday, Thaksin spoke in support of a Pheu Thai-backed candidate for the upcoming Provincial Administrative Organisation election on 1st February. However, his comments, perceived as racist by many, quickly overshadowed the political gathering. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348073-thaksin-under-fire-racist-remarks-in-chiang-rai-spark-outrage/