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Thailand's Credit Card Industry Faces Toughest Test in 20 Years File photo for reference only Thailand's credit card sector is staring down its most significant challenge in two decades, with a stagnant economy and tightening regulations threatening growth. Atis Ruchirawat of the Thai Bankers' Association warns of pending obstacles, with projections of sluggish economic performance into next year impacting consumer lending. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346763-thailands-credit-card-industry-faces-toughest-test-in-20-years/

File photo for reference only Thailand's credit card sector is staring down its most significant challenge in two decades, with a stagnant economy and tightening regulations threatening growth. Atis Ruchirawat of the Thai Bankers' Association warns of pending obstacles, with projections of sluggish economic performance into next year impacting consumer lending. To cushion the sector, the Bank of Thailand has announced two reductions in interest rates for 2025. However, these measures, while aimed to aid borrowers, are expected to shrink industry profits. Further complicating matters, a new mandatory minimum payment increase from 5% to 8% could strain debtors' ability to keep up, potentially elevating non-performing loans (NPLs). Despite these headwinds, Krungsri Consumer Group, a key player, forecasts a robust credit card and personal loan growth, aiming for a 6% to 9% rise in card spending. However, tighter asset quality controls may dampen loan approvals. The company is optimistic, projecting Thailand's GDP growth to reach 3% by 2025, and plans to issue 600,000 new credit cards in 2024. While challenges persist, Krungsri remains committed to expansion while maintaining stable NPL levels, which currently stand below industry averages. -- 2024-12-20

Thai woman accused of poisoning husband’s family with cyanide By Petch Petpailin Photo via Channel 7 A Thai woman in the central province of Chanthaburi allegedly poisoned members of her husband’s family with cyanide, including her mother-in-law and grandmother-in-law, leading to one death. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346762-thai-woman-accused-of-poisoning-husband’s-family-with-cyanide/

Photo via Channel 7 By Petch Petpailin A Thai woman in the central province of Chanthaburi allegedly poisoned members of her husband’s family with cyanide, including her mother-in-law and grandmother-in-law, leading to one death. Non-profit organisation Saimai Survive accompanied Yupaporn to the Ministry of Public Health to seek justice for her mother, who had just died in hospital, and her grandmother, who managed to survive the poisoning. In an interview with the media on December 19, the 30 year old woman accused her sister-in-law, Ying, of taking her grandmother, Chuay, to get a haircut. Ying offered Chuay a soft drink, which caused Chuay to lose consciousness. While Chuay was in hospital, Ying picked up Yupaporn’s mother, Sommai, at the hospital to meet Chuay. The suspicious incident occurred on their way back home when Sommai lost consciousness after drinking water given to her by Ying. Sommai remained in hospital for 11 days before she died. Yupaporn insisted that her mother had no pre-existing health conditions that could have caused this fatal symptom. Yupaporn began to suspect that Ying had poisoned both Chuay and Sommai. However, Chuay only consumed a small amount, which enabled her to survive. According to Yupaporn, Ying’s motive was the debt she owed to Chuay and Sommai. The poison is suspected to be cyanide, as Sommai’s hands and feet turned dark after her death. Yupaporn suspected that Ying took inspiration from the cyanide serial killer in carrying out the crime. Ying is reportedly living in the family home in the Khlung district of Chanthaburi. Chuay has recently moved out of the house for her safety. People in the community have expressed their fears and concerns that Ying might use the chemical to harm anyone she has had a conflict with. The Assistant to the Public Health Minister, Thanakrit Jitareerat, promised to conduct further investigations into Sommai’s death. He confirmed that Sommai’s lifeless body displayed signs of cyanide poisoning, and the medical team initially found traces of a chemical substance in her system. However, Thanakrit urged the family and the public to await the official autopsy results to confirm the cause of Sommai’s death and identify the chemical substance, if any. The accused woman, Ying, has not yet come forward to defend herself or provide her account to the public. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-20

Heroin addiction: Temple donation box thief arrested in Bangkok By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Bangkok police apprehended a 22 year old Thai man for allegedly breaking into donation boxes at temples to fund his heroin addiction, under the guise of treating an illness. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346760-heroin-addiction-temple-donation-box-thief-arrested-in-bangkok/

Photo courtesy of KhaoSod By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Bangkok police apprehended a 22 year old Thai man for allegedly breaking into donation boxes at temples to fund his heroin addiction, under the guise of treating an illness. Vorakan was arrested after a comprehensive investigation led by the Metropolitan Police Bureau and Bang Rak police officers. The arrest took place at a car park of a temple in the Chom Thong district of Bangkok. The suspect is charged with theft in a public place of worship and damaging protective barriers, according to a warrant issued by the South Bangkok Criminal Court. Vorakan’s criminal activities first came to light on December 9 when he was seen pretending to worship a Buddha statue at a temple. He hid in the temple until it closed, then proceeded to break into a donation box and stole cash. The incident prompted an investigation by the Metropolitan Police’s investigative unit and Bang Rak’s local police, who soon identified Vorakan as the suspect. Despite his transient lifestyle, sleeping in public spaces, the police were able to track him down and arrest him. During initial questioning, Vorakan admitted to using the stolen donation money to buy heroin, claiming it was for treating a personal illness and to pay off his debts. Further investigations revealed that he was involved in another theft on December 13 at a temple within the jurisdiction of Buppharam Police Station. Vorakan has a history of similar offences, having been previously charged with theft involving breaking and entering at Somdet Chao Phraya Police Station in 2022, and vandalism related to a donation box at Bang Khun Thian Police Station in 2023. The arresting officers transferred Vorakan to the Bang Rak Police Station for further legal proceedings. Police Colonel Theeradet remarked on the case, stating that the suspect posed a threat to society, causing distress among the public. He also noted that Vorakan was a vagrant with no fixed address, which necessitated a swift arrest, reported KhaoSod. Police urge the public to remain vigilant, carefully monitor individuals entering their premises, and ensure comprehensive CCTV coverage for added security. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-20

Thai girl forced to send explicit photos of herself and mother for game items By Petch Petpailin Photo by phkorotkova via Canva Bangkok police allegedly refused to take a complaint from a 10 year old girl after she was tricked into sending explicit pictures of herself and her mother in exchange for game items. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346759-thai-girl-forced-to-send-explicit-photos-of-herself-and-mother-for-game-items/

Photo by phkorotkova via Canva By Petch Petpailin Bangkok police allegedly refused to take a complaint from a 10 year old girl after she was tricked into sending explicit pictures of herself and her mother in exchange for game items. The Thai mother took to her Facebook account to share the story of how her 10 year old daughter fell victim to a scammer, as a warning to other families. The mother included screenshots of parts of the conversation between her daughter and the scammer in the post. In the conversation, the scammer coerced the girl into taking explicit pictures of herself and her mother and sharing them in the chat to get a “diamond” in the game. This diamond was a currency within the game that players could use to buy special items. The girl initially complied with the scammer, who called herself “mama” and called the girl “daughter”. The scammer’s true gender was not confirmed. The girl sent some of the pictures that the scammer requested such as pictures of her underwear, her mother’s underwear, and her mother’s bras. The scammer asked the young victim to sneak pictures while her mother was showering. The girl did not dare to take a picture of her mother naked and refused to do so, prompting the scammer to put more pressure on her. The scammer threatened to blackmail her by revealing what the girl was doing to her mother and other relatives. The girl also sent voice recordings of herself crying and begging the scammer to stop ordering her to do things. She stated that she no longer wanted the game’s items. Unable to withstand the pressure, she told her mother everything. The mother then filed a complaint against the scammer at Prawet Police Station. Unfortunately, the police did not take their complaint, saying they did not know the identity of the scammer and therefore did not know how to investigate the matter. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-20

Extra road safety: Phuket’s ‘7 Dangerous Days’ extended to 10 By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of The Phuket News In a bid to curb road carnage this new year, Phuket officials are going all out. The long-standing “7 Dangerous Days” campaign will stretch to a full 10 days this year, running from December 27 to January 5, marking the most extended safety crackdown yet. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346758-extra-road-safety-phuket’s-‘7-dangerous-days’-extended-to-10/

Photo courtesy of The Phuket News By Puntid Tantivangphaisal In a bid to curb road carnage this new year, Phuket officials are going all out. The long-standing “7 Dangerous Days” campaign will stretch to a full 10 days this year, running from December 27 to January 5, marking the most extended safety crackdown yet. The decision was confirmed during a meeting at Phuket Provincial Hall on Wednesday, December 18, where top brass from key government agencies gathered to tackle the island’s accident hotspots. Vice Governor Adul made his campaign clear to motorists, tourists, and residents. “Strict law enforcement is crucial to address speeding, drunk driving, and the failure to wear helmets.” High-risk zones, especially along the infamous Thep Krasattri Road (Route 402), are getting laser-focused attention. Police are preparing checkpoints, revamping accident reporting systems, and ensuring road conditions are flood-free and safe. The aim? Safer roads for locals and tourists. Notably absent from this year’s agenda was any mention of driving without a licence, once a key focus. For decades, this violation accounted for the lion’s share of fines during the campaign. However, the shift in strategy targets the top 10 accident-causing behaviours, leaving unlicenced driving in the rearview mirror. Other measures include cracking down on unsafe public buses and rental cars, integrating accident data for better analysis, and ramping up public awareness campaigns. Officials are also deploying 24-hour emergency systems and family checkpoints to bolster support during the campaign period, reported The Phuket News. Interestingly, the meeting also confirmed the traditional seven-day safety focus will remain for Songkran 2025, from April 11 to 17. Both campaigns will spotlight management systems, road risk reduction, and public education to meet Phuket’s ultimate goal: to save lives and protect property during Thailand’s key festivals. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-20

Indian passengers turn Thai AirAsia plane into party zone - video By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Odisha TV India A flight to Thailand turned into a scene of mid-air mayhem, sparking outrage online after a viral video showcased the unruly behaviour of Indian passengers. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346756-indian-passengers-turn-thai-airasia-plane-into-party-zone-video/

Photo courtesy of Odisha TV India By Puntid Tantivangphaisal A flight to Thailand turned into a scene of mid-air mayhem, sparking outrage online after a viral video showcased the unruly behaviour of Indian passengers. Shared by Ankit Kumar, a content creator aboard the Thai AirAsia flight, the footage reveals groups of Indian men standing in the aisle, chatting loudly, snacking, and blatantly ignoring air hostesses’ repeated requests to return to their seats. Social media erupted after the video, captioned with the sentiment that such antics “bring a bad name to the country,” amassed over 29,000 likes and millions of views. Many users expressed embarrassment over their compatriots’ conduct. “Money doesn’t get you class!” “We should never defend such behaviour. It tarnishes India’s image globally.” Comments poured in from Indians both at home and abroad, highlighting a pattern of poor manners in public spaces. “I’m half Indian, living in Germany, and this is common—loud talking, blocking train exits, and even playing music on phones without headphones.” “They’ve turned the flight into a train or bus. This plane hasn’t even landed, and it’s already chaos!” The incident reignited discussions about civic sense and cultural etiquette. Some users criticised the lack of accountability. “This is why Bharat remains a third-world country. Stop blaming the government.” This is not an isolated case. A similar complaint came from a Non-Resident Indian (NRI) who shared on Reddit how Indian passengers on a Munich to Delhi flight caused chaos with loud conversations and disregard for fellow travellers, reported Odisha TV India. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-20

Myanmar to release Thai fishermen, fostering regional peace By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Myanmar’s impending release of four Thai fishermen, captured in disputed waters off Ranong province last month, demonstrates its commitment to fostering regional peace. This assurance emerged during an informal consultation in Bangkok, where Foreign Affairs Minister Maris Sangiampongsa engaged representatives from six regional countries to tackle transnational crime and related issues. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346755-myanmar-to-release-thai-fishermen-fostering-regional-peace/

Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post By Bright Choomanee Myanmar’s impending release of four Thai fishermen, captured in disputed waters off Ranong province last month, demonstrates its commitment to fostering regional peace. This assurance emerged during an informal consultation in Bangkok, where Foreign Affairs Minister Maris Sangiampongsa engaged representatives from six regional countries to tackle transnational crime and related issues. The meeting saw participation from key regional figures, including Chinese Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Sun Weidong, Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, Bangladesh Adviser for Foreign Affairs Touhid Hossain, Myanmar Deputy Prime Minister and Union Minister for Foreign Affairs Than Swe, and Lao Minister of Foreign Affairs Thongsavanh Phomvihane. It marked a significant milestone as the first such gathering of Myanmar with all five of its neighbouring countries, highlighting their collective resolve to address shared challenges. Maris revealed that during discussions with Myanmar, he received confirmation of the imminent release of the fishermen. “I have received official confirmation from Than Swe that the Myanmar government will release these four fishermen soon.” He stressed that both nations are committed to preventing similar incidents in the future through collaborative efforts. Thai fishermen Meanwhile, a court in Myanmar’s Kawthaung Township has sentenced the fishing boat owner to six years of imprisonment and fined him 200,000 kyat (approximately 3,240 baht) (US$95) while the other three crew members face four-year sentences and a 20,000 kyat (US$9.5) fine each. Earlier, Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai had assured the media that the fishermen would be released by January 4. The multilateral meeting in Bangkok also facilitated candid and constructive dialogue among the participating countries. Maris emphasised the importance of engaging Myanmar and its neighbours in direct conversations to address the country’s ongoing crisis. The discussions enabled neighbouring countries to gain a deeper understanding of Myanmar’s sensitivities. Than Swe updated the attendees on Myanmar’s political developments, including preparations for a national election. Myanmar has completed a population census, and 53 political parties are registered, as reported by Maris, quoting Than Swe. “Myanmar intends to invite election observers from neighbouring countries,” Maris added, reflecting an openness to international scrutiny. Maris reiterated the collective hope for a peaceful, stable, and unified Myanmar, urging all conflicting parties to abandon violence in favour of dialogue. Than Swe assured the group that Myanmar is open to discussions aimed at peaceful resolutions through political processes, reported Bangkok Post. Additionally, the meeting addressed critical issues such as border security, transboundary crime, drug and human trafficking, and online scams, said Maris. “All six countries want to elevate close collaboration to tackle these problems. This collaboration would involve enhanced information sharing and legal enforcement cooperation.” Maris also engaged in discussions with Indian representatives regarding the reopening of Asian Highway 1, which has been impacted by the Myanmar crisis. “This highway is important to people from these three countries as it connects South and Southeast Asia through Thailand, Myanmar, and India.” Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-20

Pheu Thai members defend card photo as fortune telling, not gambling By Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ ชมรมSTRONGต้านทุจริตประเทศไทย A group of Bangkok Metropolitan Council (BMC) members from the Pheu Thai Party denied allegations of gambling after a photograph of them playing cards was circulated on social media. One of the BMC members claimed they were reading cards for fortune telling, not gambling. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346754-pheu-thai-members-defend-card-photo-as-fortune-telling-not-gambling/

Photo via Facebook/ ชมรมSTRONGต้านทุจริตประเทศไทย By Petch Petpailin A group of Bangkok Metropolitan Council (BMC) members from the Pheu Thai Party denied allegations of gambling after a photograph of them playing cards was circulated on social media. One of the BMC members claimed they were reading cards for fortune telling, not gambling. The Facebook page ชมรมSTRONGต้านทุจริต ประเทศไทย (translated as “Strong Anti-Corruption Club Thailand”) shared an image on Tuesday, December 18, showing nine individuals gathered around a table appearing to play a card game. The page alleged that some of the individuals in the photograph were BMC members. In the comments section, the page shared a zoomed-in image that appeared to show cards and money on the table, raising suspicions of gambling. Netizens questioned whether these BMC members would face punishment, as gambling is illegal in Thailand. Such actions could also constitute a breach of ethical standards expected of politicians. Channel 3 subsequently confirmed the identities of those in the photograph, which included Deputy President of the BMC Viput Srivaurai, Wang Thong Lang district representative Anurak Lertwattanapaibun, Bang Khun Thian district representative Pawin Pattayanon, and Bang Kapi district representative Napatsorn Palaraweewong. All of the individuals in the photograph were identified as members of the Pheu Thai Party, prompting journalists to question the Thai Prime Minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, on the matter. However, the prime minister declined to comment. Anurak Lertwattanapaibun later gave an interview with Channel 3, explaining that the photograph was taken on December 17 during a dinner gathering at a friend’s home in Soi Sukhumvit 12. Anurak insisted that no gambling took place and denied playing any card games. He claimed he was reading cards for others, as he has skills in fortune telling. Anurak further explained that the money visible on the table was a contribution towards the cost of the meal, amounting to 600 baht per person. Anurak also stated that the cards shown in the photograph could be used similarly to tarot cards, with the scores on the cards being used to predict individuals’ futures. The President of the BMC, Surajit Pongsinghawittaya, told the media that he was aware of the matter and would summon the involved members for questioning in accordance with official procedures. The results of the investigation are expected to be released next week. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-20

Woman Hospitalised After Drink from Tourist Turns Deadly File photo for reference only A Thai woman faced a terrifying ordeal after a night out in Pattaya's bustling nightlife district when a drink from a Chinese tourist led to severe health complications. While celebrating her sibling's birthday on Walking Street, the woman was offered an orange juice by the man, who communicated his interest through Google Translate. Despite politely declining his advances due to her boyfriend's presence elsewhere, she accepted the beverage, unaware of its risks. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346670-woman-hospitalised-after-drink-from-tourist-turns-deadly/

File photo for reference only A Thai woman faced a terrifying ordeal after a night out in Pattaya's bustling nightlife district when a drink from a Chinese tourist led to severe health complications. While celebrating her sibling's birthday on Walking Street, the woman was offered an orange juice by the man, who communicated his interest through Google Translate. Despite politely declining his advances due to her boyfriend's presence elsewhere, she accepted the beverage, unaware of its risks. Hours later, upon returning to her room, she experienced alarming symptoms, including a rapid heartbeat and persistent vomiting, prompting an urgent trip to the hospital. Initial treatment at a government facility proved insufficient, leading her to seek care at a private hospital, where tests confirmed the presence of an unknown drug in her system. The incident starkly highlights the dangers inherent in accepting drinks from strangers, serving as a warning to others navigating similar environments. It also begs the question of how nightlife venues can better protect their customers. Enhanced staff training and stringent safety regulations are essential to preventing such frightening experiences in the future. -- 2024-12-19

Fatal Altercation in Samut Prakan Leads to Murder Charge File photo for reference only After a tragic knife attack yesterday in Samut Prakan, a 21 year old man faces murder charges. The incident stemmed from a confrontation over perceived hostility, leading to the stabbing of a 16 year old boy, identified only as A. Despite emergency efforts, A succumbed to his injuries at Paolo Samut Prakan Hospital. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346669-fatal-altercation-in-samut-prakan-leads-to-murder-charge/

File photo for reference only After a tragic knife attack yesterday in Samut Prakan, a 21 year old man faces murder charges. The incident stemmed from a confrontation over perceived hostility, leading to the stabbing of a 16 year old boy, identified only as A. Despite emergency efforts, A succumbed to his injuries at Paolo Samut Prakan Hospital. Police arrested the suspect, Nachanon, at the hospital. The altercation reportedly arose from a dispute about aggressive looks and body language. Nachanon expressed deep remorse, apologising to the bereaved family with both words and a traditional wai gesture. His father also expressed his sorrow, taking responsibility for his son's actions. Police conducted a re-enactment at the crime scene to confirm the confession, a procedure attended by local officers and Nachanon's father. The investigation continues, and Nachanon remains in custody as legal proceedings move forward. -- 2024-12-19

Love-Struck Teen Risks Safety for Girlfriend's Gift in Rayong Crash File photo for reference only Yesterday afternoon in Rayong province, a heart-stopping scenario unfolded when a 17-year-old, known affectionately as Off, brushed off his injuries from a motorcycle crash to save a precious gift from his girlfriend. The dramatic incident took place on Road 3371 near a school in the Nikhom Phatthana district. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346668-love-struck-teen-risks-safety-for-girlfriends-gift-in-rayong-crash/

File photo for reference only Yesterday afternoon in Rayong province, a heart-stopping scenario unfolded when a 17-year-old, known affectionately as Off, brushed off his injuries from a motorcycle crash to save a precious gift from his girlfriend. The dramatic incident took place on Road 3371 near a school in the Nikhom Phatthana district. Off, who collided with a pickup truck mid-U-turn, sustained leg injuries but astounded everyone by refusing medical attention until his gifted sandals were retrieved. As officers from Nikhom Phatthana Police Station and Siam Rayong Rescue volunteers arrived at the scene, they found Off prioritising his sentimental footwear over his injuries. The incident occurred when the pickup truck was making a U-turn, leading Off’s motorcycle to hit it, severely damaging the bike. Despite his injuries, Off's first concern was ensuring that his girlfriend’s gift—a pair of sandals—was safe. Only after the sandals were found did he agree to be taken to Nikhom Phatthana Hospital. Off, a student on internship from Prachinburi Province, knew no one in Rayong, heightening his sense of isolation. Nevertheless, his focus remained on the sandals, a testament to his devotion. Fortunately, Off avoided severe injury, and his recovery is now underway. Authorities are still gathering evidence to resolve the incident with the pickup truck driver. Meanwhile, this modern tale of love and loyalty has captured the hearts of many on social media, showcasing how romance can persevere even in the most unexpected circumstances. -- 2024-12-19

Vietnamese Thieves Arrested in Thai Love Hotel After Crime Spree File photo for reference only In a significant breakthrough, Thai police arrested two Vietnamese nationals involved in a recent series of thefts across Nonthaburi province, near Bangkok. The arrest occurred yesterday, December 18, at a love hotel in the Bang Rak Noi district, following an escalated crime spree that baffled the local community. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346666-vietnamese-thieves-arrested-in-thai-love-hotel-after-crime-spree/

File photo for reference only In a significant breakthrough, Thai police arrested two Vietnamese nationals involved in a recent series of thefts across Nonthaburi province, near Bangkok. The arrest occurred yesterday, December 18, at a love hotel in the Bang Rak Noi district, following an escalated crime spree that baffled the local community. The two suspects, 34-year-old Nguyen Huu Luc and 36-year-old Do Van Hiep, were apprehended with more than 500 pieces of stolen property, including valuable items from homes and a car showroom. The investigation began after multiple theft reports across several areas, prompting Chaiyaphruek Police to launch a thorough investigation. Surveillance footage proved critical in identifying the suspects, revealing their activities and movements in the Bang Si Mueang area. Upon search, officers found an array of stolen goods in the suspects' hotel room, including electronics and cash. Although Nguyen denied any involvement, claiming the crimes were solely the actions of his companion, Do, both admitted resorting to theft due to financial desperation following their legal entry into Thailand on tourist visas. These arrests bring an end to a daring theft operation, with both men now facing serious legal consequences. The charges of conspiring to commit theft carry the potential for five years in prison, reflecting the severity of their actions. This case highlights the importance of rigorous policing and community vigilance in tackling such crimes effectively. -- 2024-12-19

Chumphon businessman dies from electrocution amid flooding By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A tragic incident unfolded in Chumphon, as a prominent local businessman succumbed to electrocution while attempting to pump water out of his flooded home. The entrepreneur, who owned multiple petrol stations, was deeply mourned by his employees, who regarded him as a father figure. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346663-chumphon-businessman-dies-from-electrocution-amid-flooding/