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Pictures courtesy of Pattaya Mail In a significant endorsement of Pattaya's bolstered reputation as a safe destination, Luu Pham from the US NCIS met with the Pattaya Tourist Police to commend their outstanding security efforts. With roughly 500 military personnel from the US, South Korea, and Singapore descending upon Pattaya for a well-earned rest from the Cobra Gold exercises, the meeting served as a crucial touchpoint in international cooperation. The Cobra Gold military exercise, which runs from February 25 to March 7, is one of the largest in the Asia-Pacific region, involving troops from numerous allied nations. Ensuring the safety of these troops during their downtime has been a primary concern, and Luu Pham's visit underscored the city's effectiveness in maintaining a secure environment. During the talks, Pham praised Pattaya’s engaging security initiatives, expressing satisfaction with the zero incident record involving US personnel since last year. In recognition, Pham presented a plaque and certificate to Police Lieutenant Colonel Piyaphong Ensarn and his team, applauding their vigilance and dedication. Lieutenant Colonel Ensarn reciprocated the gratitude, stating, "We strive to offer a secure atmosphere for all visitors, including international military personnel." His words echoed the spirit of collaboration, marking a successful partnership between Pattaya Police and international security agencies. This visit not only highlights Pattaya’s strategic significance as a rest location during the multilateral exercise but also demonstrates the economic positives for local businesses eager to welcome the international troops. Enhanced security measures around tourist areas further ensure that guests can enjoy their stay carefree, setting a global standard for safety in popular travel spots, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-28

Thailand Boosts Domestic Tourism with New Travel Subsidy Plan Photo courtesy of The Nation Thailand's Tourism Minister, Sorawong Thienthong, unveiled a fresh initiative to jumpstart domestic tourism with a hefty 3.5 billion baht request from the government's emergency fund. The revived "We Travel Together" programme is designed to make travel affordable for Thai residents by offering a 50% subsidy on hotel stays and meals between May and September. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353088-thailand-boosts-domestic-tourism-with-new-travel-subsidy-plan/

Photo courtesy of The Nation Thailand's Tourism Minister, Sorawong Thienthong, unveiled a fresh initiative to jumpstart domestic tourism with a hefty 3.5 billion baht request from the government's emergency fund. The revived "We Travel Together" programme is designed to make travel affordable for Thai residents by offering a 50% subsidy on hotel stays and meals between May and September. This promise of one million vouchers comes after the initial success of a post-pandemic scheme, which began with a 40% subsidy. By increasing the subsidy rate to 50%, the programme aims to provide an even stronger incentive for Thais to explore their own country, stimulating the tourism industry while spreading economic benefits nationwide. "It's likely that the vouchers will be snapped up quickly," remarked Sorawong, pointing to a high expectation for the scheme's popularity. Once registered, tourists can easily access their discounts at various hotels and eateries across the country, which will notably include the low season months—traditionally a quieter travel period. The minister also teased future expansions of the subsidy to possibly cover airfare, stating a decision is forthcoming. Meanwhile, efforts are underway to create a digital platform to simplify the process for participants and businesses involved in the co-pay scheme. This platform aims to smooth registration and voucher redemption, enhancing the user experience. Sorawong emphasized the importance of continued support for the tourism sector to maintain recovery momentum, highlighting the initiative’s role in encouraging domestic spending and propping up local economies and hospitality industries, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-27

Thai Victim Hunts for Foreign Hit-and-Run Motorcyclist Photo via Facebook/ เหยี่ยวข่าว ภูเก็ต Newshawk Phuket A Thai man in Phuket became the latest victim of a hit-and-run incident involving a foreign motorcyclist, causing a stir on social media. The accident occurred on February 26 at 7:50 AM outside Phuket Palace Condominium in Patong. The Thai man's call for help went viral as he sought public assistance in identifying the elusive foreign driver. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353087-thai-victim-hunts-for-foreign-hit-and-run-motorcyclist/

Photo via Facebook/ เหยี่ยวข่าว ภูเก็ต Newshawk Phuket A Thai man in Phuket became the latest victim of a hit-and-run incident involving a foreign motorcyclist, causing a stir on social media. The accident occurred on February 26 at 7:50 AM outside Phuket Palace Condominium in Patong. The Thai man's call for help went viral as he sought public assistance in identifying the elusive foreign driver. Using the Facebook page Newshawk Phuket, he asked the community to share any dashcam footage. He's particularly interested in a grey Yamaha TMAX, the vehicle driven by the foreigner, whose registration number remains unknown. CCTV screenshots reveal the foreign motorcyclist hitting the Thai man's motorcycle during a U-turn. This incident echoes an alarming pattern, as shared by Thai netizens who fear justice might slip away. Previous cases have seen foreign culprits evade consequences, with claims they returned to their home countries before prosecution. This skepticism is rooted in recent events, including an incident earlier this month when another foreign motorcyclist fled Thailand after injuring a Thai pedestrian in a similar scenario. Despite having the identity details from the rental service for the bike involved in the earlier case, authorities have yet to make any arrests. The community now waits to see if this new instance will break the trend of accountability evasions or add to growing frustrations, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-27

Pattaya's Hidden Beach Offers Tranquil Retreat for Tourists Pictures courtesy of Pattaya Mail As the High Season draws to a close, Pattaya continues to captivate European tourists, with many opting to extend their stays. This bustling beach town remains a favorite thanks to its relaxed atmosphere, stunning beaches, and improved tourism policies. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353086-pattayas-hidden-beach-offers-tranquil-retreat-for-tourists/

Pictures courtesy of Pattaya Mail As the High Season draws to a close, Pattaya continues to captivate European tourists, with many opting to extend their stays. This bustling beach town remains a favorite thanks to its relaxed atmosphere, stunning beaches, and improved tourism policies. A recent survey on February 25th in Yinyom and Cozy Beach shows these areas buzzing with activity. The beaches attract both Thai and international sunbathers, couples, and tourists, all drawn to its clear waters and beautiful sunsets. Cozy Beach, in particular, offers a peaceful escape with its powdery sands and scenic rocky landscapes. Unlike Pattaya's main beaches, Cozy Beach prohibits jet ski rentals, creating a safe haven for swimmers and nature lovers. This ban preserves the area's tranquil ambiance, making it ideal for families and couples seeking a restful getaway. Sarawut, a local business owner, notes a change in the tourist demographic. He sees more visitors from India and Russia, who predominantly stay in nearby hotels like Cozy Beach. Families and couples looking for peace make up most of the crowd, while Thai tourists flock in on weekends. Despite stable earnings from chair rentals and food sales, the jet ski ban has affected overall business income. Yet, with a steady flow of tourists, local businesses remain optimistic. Pattaya's tourism industry shows resilience as it moves into the low season. The city is set to benefit from the Thai government's Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism & Sports Year 2025 campaign. This initiative aims to attract 40 million visitors and generate over 3 trillion baht, reinforcing Thailand's status as a premier global travel destination, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-27

Thailand Faces Backlash Over Secret Uyghur Deportation to China Pictures courtesy of Bangkok Post In a controversial move, Thailand has secretly deported 40 Uyghur detainees to China after holding them for nearly 11 years. This deportation, confirmed by Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, has prompted global outrage amid allegations of human rights violations. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353083-thailand-faces-backlash-over-secret-uyghur-deportation-to-china/

This photo provided by Thailand's daily web newspaper Prachatai shows trucks with black tape covering the windows leave a detention center in Bangkok, Thailand Thursday, Feb. 27, 2025.(Nuttaphol Meksobhon/Prachatai via AP) In a controversial move, Thailand has secretly deported 40 Uyghur detainees to China after holding them for nearly 11 years. This deportation, confirmed by Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, has prompted global outrage amid allegations of human rights violations. The transfer, carried out under the cover of darkness on February 27, was completed with a secretive motorcade from Bangkok's Suan Phlu immigration detention center to Don Mueang Airport. The detainees departed on a China Southern Airlines flight, which landed in Kashgar, Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region. Human rights groups and international observers have strongly condemned the deportation. Phil Robertson of Asia Human Rights and Labour Advocates stated, "Thailand has finally done the unthinkable." Elaine Pearson from Human Rights Watch warned the men now risk facing torture and long-term imprisonment in China. This move contradicts previous assurances from Thai officials and could have severe implications for Thailand's international reputation. People's Party MP Rangsiman Rome noted, "It will have a significant impact on international trust." The deportation could strain US-Thailand diplomatic relations, as earlier expressed concerns by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio resurface. Under international law, returning individuals to countries where they might face persecution or torture is prohibited. Uyghurs, a predominantly Muslim ethnic minority in Xinjiang, have faced allegations of human rights abuses by China, including forced detention. While China labels it as counter-terrorism measures, these claims have been denied. Thailand's choice disrupts its role as a transit hub for Uyghurs fleeing persecution, particularly as Turkey has been a long-standing supporter of Uyghur asylum seekers. This decision rekindles debates over Thailand's refugee policies, as the detainees were held without access to the National Screening Mechanism, which aids refugees in accessing public services. Now, under intense global scrutiny, Thailand must provide explanations and guarantee the safety of those deported. The international community waits to witness how Thailand addresses the fallout from this controversial decision, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-27

Bangkok Furious Over Cruise Ship Dumping Trash in River - video Screenshots from Carla Porter Facebook video Bangkok is seething with anger after a video capturing cruise ship staff dumping trash into the Chao Phraya River went viral. The video, shared by Carla Porter, Miss Thailand World 2009 runner-up, has sparked outrage and scrutiny. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353082-bangkok-furious-over-cruise-ship-dumping-trash-in-river-video/

Screenshots from Carla Porter Facebook video Bangkok is seething with anger after a video capturing cruise ship staff dumping trash into the Chao Phraya River went viral. The video, shared by Carla Porter, Miss Thailand World 2009 runner-up, has sparked outrage and scrutiny. The footage, recorded secretly by a friend of Porter, shows the crew hurling plastic bottles and foam boxes into the river. According to Porter, this isn’t a one-time incident. It happens daily, and when noticed, the crew attempted to conceal their actions by moving behind another docked ship. “It's shocking that a company benefiting from the river could also be destroying it,” Porter commented, suspecting that higher-ups might be involved, not just the staff. The scandal has led to an avalanche of criticism on social media, with environmentalists and residents demanding swift action. Tos, who manages a restaurant along the river, confirmed the dumping practice, having witnessed it multiple times himself. Frustrated by frequent floating trash and its stench affecting his business, Tos recorded the incident. Tos remarked, “Instead of using a proper bin, they just toss trash before picking up passengers to maintain a clean front.” Furious citizens flooded the cruise company's Facebook with calls for accountability and criticized management. The Marine Department has launched an investigation and promises penalties if the allegations hold true. Attempts to reach the cruise company failed, as calls were redirected to a ticket agency denying ownership. As pressure mounts, the incident has reignited discussions on corporate responsibility and environmental ethics in Thailand. Environmental groups are pushing for stricter laws to protect the iconic Chao Phraya River, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-27

Thai Wives Team Up to Expose Cheating Cop Husband Photo via Channel 3 A dramatic scene unfolded in Lop Buri, Thailand, where two wives joined together to catch their police officer husband with another woman. The clash happened at a local restaurant, drawing public attention after a video of the altercation went viral. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353081-thai-wives-team-up-to-expose-cheating-cop-husband/

Photo via Channel 3 A dramatic scene unfolded in Lop Buri, Thailand, where two wives joined together to catch their police officer husband with another woman. The clash happened at a local restaurant, drawing public attention after a video of the altercation went viral. The incident began when the two wives, suspecting their husband of infidelity, secretly placed a GPS tracker on his car. Following the signal on February 25, they confronted him at a restaurant with a much younger woman. In the video, one of the wives challenges the woman at the table with a blunt question, while the officer demands civility. Tensions rose, with restaurant staff eventually urging the group to leave for the safety of other patrons. Thai police regulations state that infidelity can lead to disciplinary action against officers. In this case, the wives could pursue legal measures if violence had occurred. Despite widespread skepticism, the policeman claims that the woman is a friend, the widow of a deceased pal. He assured that he and his wives had settled the issue, promising no further consequences. Yet, the viral video remains a talking point in Thailand, sparking social media users' debates about relationships, trust, and integrity, especially among those in public service, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-27

Tragic Standoff: Thai Teen's Fear Leads to Baby's Death Photo via Channel 7 In Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand, a heart-wrenching incident unfolded yesterday, February 26, when a 16-year-old pregnant girl refused hospital care, resulting in her newborn's death. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353079-tragic-standoff-thai-teens-fear-leads-to-babys-death/

Photo via Channel 7 In Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand, a heart-wrenching incident unfolded yesterday, February 26, when a 16-year-old pregnant girl refused hospital care, resulting in her newborn's death. Rescue workers were alerted around 10 a.m. by neighbors who noticed the teen's distress as her amniotic sac had broken, signaling impending childbirth. Upon arrival, however, the girl, gripped by fear, repelled the rescuers by brandishing a knife and throwing objects. Hours later, at about 2:30 p.m., the rescue team was informed again by concerned neighbors of the girl's continued refusal to seek medical help despite heavy bleeding. When rescuers re-entered the room by force, they discovered the tragic outcome: the lifeless baby on the bed. The scene was distressing. The woman's 20-year-old husband sat silently beside their deceased child, unable to speak. Locals shared that the couple, who worked at a nearby fresh market, were known in the community, but the teenager consistently denied her pregnancy, leading to suspicions she harmed the baby intentionally. However, investigations revealed the girl did not deliberately harm her child. Overcome with fear and lacking any prenatal care, she avoided the hospital, unaware of the fatal consequences. Police stated that once she recovers from blood loss, they would conduct further questioning. The baby's body was sent for an autopsy as officials sought to piece together the tragic events that shattered this young family's life, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-27

Delivery Dispute: Riders Rally Against Thai Restaurant Owners Photo via Facebook/ Nam Supassorn In a heated incident in Thailand, two restaurant owners accused a LINE MAN food delivery rider of attempted assault over a forgotten order on February 26. Security footage showed the owners arguing with the rider in front of their shop. The male owner claimed the rider picked up only one of two plastic bags meant for an order and later attempted to assault him. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353078-delivery-dispute-riders-rally-against-thai-restaurant-owners/

Photo via Facebook/ Nam Supassorn In a heated incident in Thailand, two restaurant owners accused a LINE MAN food delivery rider of attempted assault over a forgotten order on February 26. Security footage showed the owners arguing with the rider in front of their shop. The male owner claimed the rider picked up only one of two plastic bags meant for an order and later attempted to assault him. The restaurant owner stated, "We completed the order, but the rider only took one bag. We will pursue this legally." She tagged LINE MAN's official Facebook to report the rider's behavior. The rider reportedly left with just one bag and, when called to return, advised the owner to tie both bags together next time. A confrontation ensued when the owner allegedly scolded the rider over the phone, which both parties deny. The argument escalated to shoving before the owner's wife intervened, prompting the rider to leave. Surprisingly, the rider found support among other delivery workers. Several delivery riders commented on the incident, criticizing the couple instead. They claimed long waits, inadequate service, and rude behavior from the owners, with one saying, "They make us wait outside without shade and often tell us to cancel orders, knowing it affects our ratings." Further details are awaited as the couple has yet to clarify their side, and it's unclear if the rider faces any repercussions from LINE MAN. The incident has sparked wider conversations among delivery riders about working conditions and fair treatment, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-27

Explore Thailand's Must-Visit Cities: A Cultural Journey Photo courtesy of Spacebar.th Thailand's Tourism Authority is gearing up to welcome 8 million Chinese tourists by 2025, targeting tourism revenue of at least 550 billion baht. Governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool revealed the strategy focusing on Thai charm and pride as the main attractions, highlighting a unique blend of cultural experiences. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353077-explore-thailands-must-visit-cities-a-cultural-journey/

Photo courtesy of Spacebar.th Thailand's Tourism Authority is gearing up to welcome 8 million Chinese tourists by 2025, targeting tourism revenue of at least 550 billion baht. Governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool revealed the strategy focusing on Thai charm and pride as the main attractions, highlighting a unique blend of cultural experiences. The "Fall in Love with Thailand" campaign, launched by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), aims to bring Chinese tourists closer to the heart of Thailand's culture. This effort emphasizes self-guided travel that explores the rich cultural connections between Thailand and China, engaging tourists with diverse aspects such as arts, cuisine, language, and historical sites. TAT is spotlighting must-visit cities across five regions: Samut Songkhram, Ratchaburi, Suphan Buri, Chiang Rai, and Udon Thani, to name a few. These destinations promise tourists a peek into local lifestyles and cultural practices. For instance, Chiang Rai offers a coffee trail amidst mountain scenery, while the coastal roads of Nakhon Si Thammarat unveil serene beaches and fresh seafood delights. Central Thailand showcases traditional riverbank life in Suphan Buri, where visitors can relish community dishes crafted by inspired chefs. Meanwhile, the northeast's Bueng Kan presents the tranquil Khee Lek Yai village, flourishing with natural beauty and cultural richness. In the east, Chanthaburi's orchards and Ko Chang's sandy beaches invite tourists for fruit-tasting and aquatic adventures. Thailand will promote these charming locations through popular Chinese social platforms like Xiaohongshu, Weibo, TikTok (Douyin), and Bilibili. Targeting tourists aged 18 to 45, TAT aims for over 100 million online impressions, offering fresh perspectives and experiences for those revisiting Thailand. These efforts symbolize not just a tourism boost but also a celebration of enduring cultural ties between Thailand and China, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-27

University Lecturer Under Investigation Over Secret Porn Sale Allegations Picture courtesy of postjung In Udon Thani province, a university lecturer is under scrutiny for allegedly running a secret online group selling explicit images and videos. This has sparked outrage among students, who gathered evidence and filed complaints with university management. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353075-university-lecturer-under-investigation-over-secret-porn-sale-allegations/

Picture courtesy of postjung In Udon Thani province, a university lecturer is under scrutiny for allegedly running a secret online group selling explicit images and videos. This has sparked outrage among students, who gathered evidence and filed complaints with university management. The lecturer, a doctor at the university, denied the allegations. However, they have a history of misconduct, including a prior incident involving motorcycle theft. Reports on these allegations surfaced on February 26. University officials confirmed receiving complaints from both students and parents about inappropriate conduct, including selling pornographic material allegedly filmed within the faculty room. This prompted an inquiry by the administration on January 30. The lecturer had previously been questioned twice; about the motorcycle theft, which was resolved through compensation, and for the inappropriate conduct concerns. Despite the lecturer's denials, the university claims to have evidence and has launched a formal inquiry. Students also reported the lecturer inviting them to join the secret group, which they found highly inappropriate. The lecturer joined the university’s Faculty of Liberal Arts in 2019, leading the technology department. Colleagues described him as reclusive, often avoiding social interactions. He was reportedly married but recently separated, with divorce proceedings apparently underway. Concerns persist about whether any students fell victim to these actions, as access to the explicit content required a paid subscription. This incident follows similar distressing reports in other educational institutions. Efforts to reach the lecturer failed as his phone number was disconnected. Students, aware of his behavior, noted his tendency to stay indoors during the day and go out only at night. This revelation has left the university community shocked and concerned, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-27

Thailand's Immigration Sweep Nabs Nearly 10,000 Offenders Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Thailand's national crackdown on illegal immigration has resulted in nearly 10,000 arrests, with authorities uncovering a vast network of crimes, including passport forgery and drug smuggling. During the week-long operation from February 18 to February 24, launched by Police General Kittirat Phanphat, the Royal Thai Police targeted illegal immigrants and cross-border criminal activities. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353074-thailands-immigration-sweep-nabs-nearly-10000-offenders/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Thailand's national crackdown on illegal immigration has resulted in nearly 10,000 arrests, with authorities uncovering a vast network of crimes, including passport forgery and drug smuggling. During the week-long operation from February 18 to February 24, launched by Police General Kittirat Phanphat, the Royal Thai Police targeted illegal immigrants and cross-border criminal activities. Police General Thana Chuwong reported a total of 9,532 arrests, drawing from a diverse range of offences. These included 207 wanted individuals, 6,239 illegal entries, 875 visa overstays, 120 instances of revoked permits, 463 illegal workers, and 1,628 other violations. The detainees originated from various countries, with 564 Thai nationals, 4,879 from Myanmar, 1,699 from Laos, 1,376 from Cambodia, 103 from Vietnam, and 911 from other countries being apprehended. One significant bust involved a call centre gang in possession of hand grenades and over 1 kilogram of ketamine. The operation led by immigration, central investigation, and tourist police saw the arrest of four suspects, including nationals from Taiwan, Thailand, and the Philippines. The Taiwanese suspect had five arrest warrants in Taiwan, while two Filipinos reportedly trafficked into the gang’s operations in Myanmar were also detained. In Surin, a building used for forging Chinese passports was discovered, and further investigations found rented properties for smuggling activities. Police arrested 13 suspects linked to the trafficking syndicate. Ongoing efforts by the Centre for Suppression of Transnational Crime aim to maintain public order and adhere to government and Royal Thai Police policies. The successful operation emphasizes the country's commitment to cracking down on illegal immigration and cross-border crime, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-27

Thai Ranger Calls Out Italian Tourists for Damaging Coral Reefs Photo via Facebook/ ทราย - Merman Ψ (มนุษย์เงือก) A Thai park ranger named Sai took to social media to highlight an incident involving two Italian tourists who ignored official warnings and snorkeled in a restricted area, threatening the delicate coral reefs. Sai posted a video on Facebook and Instagram on February 27, expressing frustration, saying, "Can you do anything you want if you have money? Foreign tourists look down on Thai people." Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353072-thai-ranger-calls-out-italian-tourists-for-damaging-coral-reefs/

Photo via Facebook/ ทราย - Merman Ψ (มนุษย์เงือก) A Thai park ranger named Sai took to social media to highlight an incident involving two Italian tourists who ignored official warnings and snorkeled in a restricted area, threatening the delicate coral reefs. Sai posted a video on Facebook and Instagram on February 27, expressing frustration, saying, "Can you do anything you want if you have money? Foreign tourists look down on Thai people." In the video caption, Sai detailed how the tourists, suspected to be Italians, were found swimming in a closed-off area meant to let the coral reef recover after much of it died last year. Their actions not only endangered the reef but also themselves, as they were 700 meters from the beach without a guide. Sai and the park rangers questioned the tourists about their travel agency, but received no answers. Even after being asked to stop their activities and return to the boat, the tourists refused. Officials eventually had to pull the tourists onto the boat to take them back to shore. -- 2025-02-27