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Photo via MGR Online By Petch Petpailin A British man left messages in the sand for his wife and children before taking his own life on Cha-am Beach in the southern province of Phetchaburi. He was reportedly distressed over two legal cases and a 400,000-baht loss to a friend. A Thai tourist discovered the lifeless body of the British man, later identified as 42 year old Antony Gerrard Kelly at an abandoned beachfront pavilion on Cha-am Beach yesterday, December 8. Kelly was found hanging in the pavilion. He was wearing a dark blue shirt, long trousers, and a black cap, with his eyes covered by a cloth. Nearby, a Bible and bedding set were found, but no personal identification documents were present at the scene. Kelly ‘s Thai wife, 47 year old Sawat Boonsa-ard, who had been searching for her husband, arrived at the scene and identified him to the officers from Cha-am Police Station. Upon inspecting the area, officers found that Kelly left messages for his wife and children. He used sand to write messages on the floor and a seat in the pavilion, including a heart symbol, a heart with the words “Bad Girl Forever,” and the date of his death. According to Sawat, Gerrard left their home on December 4 and disappeared. She reported his disappearance to police and searched for him but found no trace of him until yesterday. Sawat believed her husband’s suicide was driven by stress over two legal cases and the loss of 400,000 baht. Kelly was reportedly under two arrest warrants for theft and attempted murder after allegedly firing shots at a cannabis shop owned by a foreigner in the Hua Hin area. Sawat further revealed that a foreign friend of Kelly promised to help him avoid prison if he paid 400,000 baht. However, the friend scammed him, taking the money and betraying him. Gerrard’s body is currently undergoing an autopsy at Phra Chomklao Phetchaburi Hospital. If you or anyone you know is in emotional distress, please contact the Samaritans of Thailand 24-hour hotline: 02 713 6791 (English), 02 713 6793 (Thai), or the Thai Mental Health Hotline at 1323 (Thai). Please also contact your friends or relatives at this time if you have feelings of loneliness, stress, or depression. Seek help. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-09

Political scandal: Former Bhumjaithai Party trio out on parole By Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Ars Technica Three former Bhumjaithai Party members, once sentenced to nine months behind bars for ethical breaches, yesterday strolled out of prison on parole. Having served part of their time, the trio is now back in the spotlight as they re-enter the world beyond bars. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345749-political-scandal-former-bhumjaithai-party-trio-out-on-parole/

Picture courtesy of Ars Technica By Bob Scott Three former Bhumjaithai Party members, once sentenced to nine months behind bars for ethical breaches, yesterday strolled out of prison on parole. Having served part of their time, the trio is now back in the spotlight as they re-enter the world beyond bars. Among them, Natee Ratchakitprakarn, once a list MP and the wife of Labour Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, emerged from the Central Women’s Correctional Institution. Meanwhile, Phatthalung natives Chalong Thoetwiraphong and Phumsit Khongmi departed the Bangkok Remand Prison. The Supreme Court’s Criminal Division for Political Office Holders had found them guilty back in June of an ethics breach that rocked the political landscape. The scandal centred around their illicit decision to let other MPs wield their electronic voting cards during a pivotal budget bill vote in January 2020, a blunder that came with heavy repercussions. The fallout from their actions saw the budget bill’s second and third readings declared null and void, abruptly ceasing their political aspirations. On top of their jail time, they were slapped with a stripping of their political rights, underscoring the severity of their misconduct, an unnamed political analyst noted, hinting at the gravity of the political ethos in question. “The verdict was clear, and the penalties imposed were meant to reflect the seriousness of their misconduct.” As the Bhumjaithai Party grapples with this stain on its reputation, it faces the daunting task of rebuilding trust within Thai politics. Pundits suggest all eyes will be on the party’s next steps as it seeks to mend its fractured image amidst the lingering shadow of scandal. With the return of these ex-MPs to civilian life, the broader ripples of their ethical breach continue to resonate through political circles, serving as a stark cautionary tale about the costs of straying from integrity in public office. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-09

Thailand police crackdown on pornographic content production By Ryan Turner Photo via KhaoSod Thai police launched a new operation dubbed Rabbit Slaughter: Suppressing Sex Creators, targeting both Thai and foreign nationals involved in producing and distributing pornographic content globally. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345748-thailand-police-crackdown-on-pornographic-content-production/

Photo via KhaoSod By Ryan Turner Thai police launched a new operation dubbed Rabbit Slaughter: Suppressing Sex Creators, targeting both Thai and foreign nationals involved in producing and distributing pornographic content globally. The operation seeks to dismantle a network including pornographic content involving Thai women. Police, led by Saruti Kwangsopa, initiated the crackdown, resulting in the arrest of several individuals. These include 40 year old Benjamin Jon Wilkinson, a British national; 34 year old Andrei Gerbennikov from Russia; and 48 year old Volker Matthias Graul, a German national. Others arrested were 32 year old Zvezdan Stojanov from Serbia; 26 year old Sangthian, 30 year old Thanasin, and 36 year old Rattana, all Thai nationals. The arrests were made under warrants issued by the Criminal Court for charges related to the commercial production and distribution of pornographic material. The charges stem from allegations that these individuals produced and distributed explicit content within Thailand, using the country as a base for their operations. The material was reportedly sold worldwide, violating Thai law and tarnishing the country’s image. This initiative aligns with an urgent policy directive from Police General Kittirat Phanphet to combat transnational crime using Thailand as a hub for pornographic distribution via online platforms. According to Saruti Kwangsopa, foreign sex creators have exploited Thailand’s tourism backdrop, encouraging Thai women to participate in sexually explicit acts, sometimes filmed in iconic locations like tuk-tuks, a popular mode of transport for tourists. The operation also allegedly involved Thai and transgender individuals and included collaboration with a well-known Thai sex creator. The investigation led to the issuance of warrants and subsequent arrests in various locations, including Bangkok, Chon Buri, and Suvarnabhumi. During interrogations, most suspects confessed, leading to their transfer to the investigative division for legal processing. Investigators discovered a significant amount of child pornography in one suspect’s possession, prompting an extended investigation aimed at rescuing child victims. If any further evidence of child exploitation is uncovered, additional charges related to human trafficking will be pursued, reported KhaoSod. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-09

Thai woman faced attempted lynching after attacking boy with knife By Petch Petpailin The suspect is in the purple shirt. | Photo via Facebook/ แจ๊ค นักข่าว เมืองชล Police yesterday intervened to prevent a lynching of a Thai woman who brutally attacked an eight year old boy with knives in her rented room in Chon Buri. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345747-thai-woman-faced-attempted-lynching-after-attacking-boy-with-knife/

The suspect is in the purple shirt. | Photo via Facebook/ แจ๊ค นักข่าว เมืองชล By Petch Petpailin Police yesterday intervened to prevent a lynching of a Thai woman who brutally attacked an eight year old boy with knives in her rented room in Chon Buri. Officers from Mueang Chon Buri Police Station were alerted to the knife attack in the Nong Ri sub-district of Chon Buri province at approximately 5.20pm, yesterday, December 8. They rushed to the scene along with rescuers from the Dham Ratsamee Maneerat Foundation. Upon their arrival, the officers found the injured boy, who sustained three severe cuts across his legs. Rescuers administered first aid before rushing the boy to hospital for further treatment. The attacker, a 36 year old woman named Puangphan, was found in her rented room, intoxicated and wielding two kitchen knives. Officers successfully disarmed her and persuaded her to surrender. Puangphan told police that the boy entered her room without permission and was searching for valuables. She claimed she asked the boy to leave, but when he ignored her, she picked up two knives to scare him by mimicking chopping motions. Puangphan insisted she did not intend to harm the boy and that his injuries were accidental. She further added that the boy was very naughty. However, the boy’s grandmother, 48 year old Surat, provided a contradictory account. She alleged that Puangphan lured the boy into her room by offering him snacks and, without any apparent reason, attacked him with the knives. Police escorted Puangphan out of her room for further legal proceedings but an angry group of the boy’s relatives, who gathered outside, immediately attacked her. Officers intervened to stop the assault and transferred the suspect to the police station. The charges against Puangphan have not yet been disclosed by the police. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-09

Husband and wife arrested for brutal murder in Uthai Thani By Ryan Turner Photo via KhaoSod A gruesome murder has come to light after the arrest of a husband and wife in Uthai Thani, Thailand, following the discovery of a deceased man’s body in a field. The suspects, identified as 58 year old Samrit and 32 year old Jirawan confessed to the murder of 60 year old Udom. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345746-husband-and-wife-arrested-for-brutal-murder-in-uthai-thani/

Photo via KhaoSod By Ryan Turner A gruesome murder has come to light after the arrest of a husband and wife in Uthai Thani, Thailand, following the discovery of a deceased man’s body in a field. The suspects, identified as 58 year old Samrit and 32 year old Jirawan confessed to the murder of 60 year old Udom. The couple was apprehended after a public altercation in Mueang district, which drew police attention. Police received a tip-off about the couple’s involvement in the murder of Udom, whose body was found abandoned in a field. Officers arrested them after they were reported for arguing loudly on a street in Uthai Thani. Upon investigation, police discovered that both individuals were intoxicated and were having a heated argument. The police took the couple to the station for questioning, where it was revealed that they had an arrest warrant against them. During initial questioning, they admitted their plan to flee to Chai Nat. They had also pawned the deceased’s motorcycle in Nakhon Sawan, securing 2,000 baht. Police are currently working to retrieve the pawned items. Throughout the night, officers at Khlong Khlung Police Station interrogated the couple, who eventually confessed to the crime. Jirawan admitted that she instructed Samrit to restrain Udom while she struck his face with a bottle and repeatedly stabbed him with a fruit knife. They left his body in the field and took 500 baht from him. After the murder, the couple went to Udom’s house, stealing three Buddha statues and a long sword. They then sought fuel from the deceased’s nephew’s workshop before hiding their clothes at a relative’s house in Pang Tawai, Pang Sila Thong. They were planning to escape to Chai Nat but were caught before they could flee. At 9am, the day after the arrest, Udom’s daughter and his ex-wife came to Khlong Khlung Police Station to provide additional statements. They expressed relief over the arrest and hoped the perpetrators would face justice. Brutal murder They also filed additional charges for stealing from Udom’s house. The daughter mentioned she might not attend the crime reenactment due to the brutal nature of the crime against her father. At 10am, Jirawan’s aunt attempted to visit her niece at the police station after learning about the arrest. The aunt, who was shocked by the news, described Jirawan as a quiet person who had changed due to excessive drinking. She mentioned that Jirawan would often go out when heavily intoxicated, despite having a young child. The aunt expressed disbelief over Jirawan’s violent actions against someone they knew well. Jirawan had been in a relationship with Samrit for only two months. Her three year old daughter, currently staying with Samrit’s relatives, is from a previous marriage. The aunt plans to retrieve the child, expressing deep sorrow over Jirawan’s actions. Meanwhile, police announced that they would conduct a crime reenactment at 1pm today, with numerous officers on standby to prevent any attempts at mob justice, reported KhaoSod. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-09

Rare Endangered Moonrat Found in Yala, Soon to Return Home Photo: The Thaiger A local angler in Yala, southern Thailand, has discovered a rare and endangered moonrat while fishing in a canal. The unusual find will soon be returned to its natural habitat. The discovery was reported by Phatcharin Prathummek from the Betong Animal Lover Club, who then showed the media the moonrat at her house. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345551-rare-endangered-moonrat-found-in-yala-soon-to-return-home/

Photo: The Thaiger A local angler in Yala, southern Thailand, has discovered a rare and endangered moonrat while fishing in a canal. The unusual find will soon be returned to its natural habitat. The discovery was reported by Phatcharin Prathummek from the Betong Animal Lover Club, who then showed the media the moonrat at her house. The moonrat, weighing over 1 kilogram, was found floating in the canal and rescued with a fishing net. Initially, Phatcharin mistook it for a bamboo rat but later identified it as a moonrat after some research. Known in Thailand as Noo Men or Sato, the moonrat is recognized by its strong, ammonia-like smell, which it uses to communicate. With long, shaggy black and white fur and a distinctive black stripe across its face, the moonrat prefers to live in solitude, often in burrows or crevices. It feeds on worms, insects, and small aquatic animals. The moonrat is endangered due to habitat loss and is protected by Thai law. Phatcharin and the angler assured the public that their intention is not to keep the moonrat as a pet but to safely return it to the wild. -- 2024-12-06

Thai E-Cigarette Debate Sparks Health Experts' Outrage File photo for reference only The House special committee on e-cigarettes has caused an uproar by suggesting three controversial proposals: maintaining a complete ban, legalizing heated tobacco products (HTPs), or approving all types of e-cigarettes. Health organizations across the nation are criticizing these options for seemingly supporting pro-smoking interests. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345550-thai-e-cigarette-debate-sparks-health-experts-outrage/

File photo for reference only The House special committee on e-cigarettes has caused an uproar by suggesting three controversial proposals: maintaining a complete ban, legalizing heated tobacco products (HTPs), or approving all types of e-cigarettes. Health organizations across the nation are criticizing these options for seemingly supporting pro-smoking interests. Health experts from the Tobacco Control Research and Knowledge Management Centre, Action Against Smoking and Health Foundation, and Thai Health Promotion Foundation demand a thorough examination of these recommendations. Concerns are high that the committee might be swayed by industry ties. Dr. Roengrudee Patanavanich from Mahidol University points out a conflict of interest, revealing that two committee members have connections to the tobacco industry. This, she says, breaches Article 5.3 of the World Tobacco Control Convention, and questions the committee's impartiality. Globally, the trend is to ban e-cigarettes; countries like Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Brazil have strict restrictions. Even nations like the UK and France, which allow e-cigarettes, impose limitations on disposable variants. Dr. Prakit Vathesatogkit from the Action on Smoking and Health Foundation criticizes the report for neglecting control measures if legalization occurs, warning it could lead to a spike in youth addiction. He also highlights potential financial burdens due to the increased need for monitoring and enforcement if e-cigarettes are legalized, requiring more resources and specialized equipment. Echoing these sentiments, the International Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung Diseases advises countries like Thailand to ban e-cigarettes and HTPs outright due to economic constraints. Economist Prof. Isra Sarntisart argues against claims that legalizing e-cigarettes would increase tax revenue, calling it an "economic mirage." He cites a US study showing that tax gains do not cover the medical costs associated with e-cigarette-related illnesses. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nitas Sirichotirat emphasizes the threat smoking poses to UN Sustainable Development Goals, highlighting the broader impact of e-cigarettes on both health and economy. As Thailand navigates this contentious issue, the debate underscores significant health and economic implications for its future. -- 2024-12-06

Thai man kills neighbour’s dog for alleged chicken attack By Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ Khaw Fang The owner of a light brown Siberian Husky in the southern province of Songkhla is seeking justice after the dog was beaten to death by a neighbour, who claimed it attacked his chickens. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345415-songkhla-neighbour-kills-siberian-husky-throws-body-into-sea/#findComment-19431374

Thai man kills neighbour’s dog for alleged chicken attack Photo via Facebook/ Khaw Fang By Petch Petpailin The owner of a light brown Siberian Husky in the southern province of Songkhla is seeking justice after the dog was beaten to death by a neighbour, who claimed it attacked his chickens. Rachan, the owner of the female Siberian Husky named Lucky shared the tragic story on social media, along with a video of the violent attack captured on CCTV. The footage reportedly showed that Lucky did not approach the chickens as she was accused. In the video, the neighbour, later identified as Boonlert, is seen repeatedly beating Lucky with a wooden stick. The dog did not resist and lay motionless on the road. Boonlert briefly left the scene but returned with a larger stick and struck Lucky more than 20 times before dragging the dog’s body away. Rachan was later seen leaving his house in the rain to search for his dog. Despite noticing a pool of blood on the road, he did not initially suspect anything tragic. It was only after learning from locals that someone killed his dog and reviewing the CCTV footage. In an interview with Channel 7, Rachan revealed that he adopted Lucky, previously named Whisky, from its former owner three months earlier. The previous owner could no longer care for the dog due to personal reasons. Rachan renamed the dog Lucky, hoping it would bring better fortune. Tragically, the dog’s fate was far from fortunate. Permission to kill claimed On the day of the incident, Lucky chewed through a nylon rope Rachan used to secure her and wandered into the neighbourhood. The dog went outside Boonlert’s home and was later killed as seen in the video. Channel 7 reporters also interviewed Boonlert, who admitted to the attack. He claimed that the dog attacked his chickens multiple times, killing three of them on the day of the incident. Boonlert further alleged that Rachan’s sister permitted him to beat the dog. However, Rachan and his family firmly denied this, leading Boonlert to abruptly end the interview and retreat into his home. Rachan insisted that this was the first time that Lucky escaped from home, so it was impossible that Lucky would attack Boonlert’s chickens three times as he claimed. The owner added that he still could not find the body of Lucky and believed that Boonlert already abandoned it in the sea. Rachan filed a complaint against Boonlert at Singha Nakhon Police Station. Boonlert is initially facing two charges, including: Section 20 and Section 31 of the Animal Protection Act: cruelty of an animal. The penalty is imprisonment of up to two years, a fine of up to 40,000 baht, or both. Section 358 of the Criminal Law: damaging property of another person. The penalty is six months to 10 years in prison and a fine of between 10,000 and 200,000 baht. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-06

Married landlord shoots car of tenant’s boyfriend in jealous rage By Petch Petpailin Photo via Naewna A landlord in Nonthaburi province, near Bangkok, fired shots at his tenant’s boyfriend’s car on Wednesday, reportedly driven by jealousy, despite being married with children. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345548-married-landlord-shoots-car-of-tenant’s-boyfriend-in-jealous-rage/

Photo via Naewna By Petch Petpailin A landlord in Nonthaburi province, near Bangkok, fired shots at his tenant’s boyfriend’s car on Wednesday, reportedly driven by jealousy, despite being married with children. The 40 year old car owner, Suradate, filed a complaint with Bang Bua Thong Police Station at 5pm on Wednesday, December 4, after discovering his silver-bronze Toyota Vios sedan riddled with three bullet holes. Broken glass was scattered across the front seats of the vehicle. Suradate’s girlfriend, 39 year old Nee, told the police that the gunman was her landlord, 43 year old prason. He reportedly fled the scene in his car immediately after the shooting. Nee explained that she was previously a single mother living in the rental room with her child. Somprasong, who is married and has children, developed feelings for her but she rejected his advances as she did not want to be a mistress. Despite her rejection, Somprasong continued pursuing her. About a year ago, Nee entered into a relationship with Suradate, who began visiting her regularly and occasionally staying overnight, which angered Somprasong. Nee revealed that Somprasong previously damaged Suradate’s car by kicking and breaking a side mirror. She did not expect the situation to escalate further, especially since Suradate had reduced his visits to avoid provoking Somprasong. However, the shooting still occurred. On the day of the incident, Nee informed Somprasong that her boyfriend would be visiting. She then left her phone with her child and did not contact Somprasong for the rest of the day. Somprasong reportedly made 16 phone calls to Nee, which her child rejected without her knowledge. Jealous Somprasong then approached Suradate’s car, fired at it, and fled the scene. In an interview with Naewna, Suradate stated that Somprasong hated him for his relationship with Nee. Somprasong claimed Nee was his girlfriend and demanded that Suradate end the relationship, a request he refused. Police are currently tracking down Somprasong and are investigating whether he legally owned the firearm used in the incident. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-06

Warning issued on eve of White Lotus series in Thailand - video By Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Variety As legions of White Lotus fans eagerly await the much-anticipated third series of the smash hit HBO drama, a gripping warning emerges from the exotic shores of Thailand. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345547-warning-issued-on-eve-of-white-lotus-series-in-thailand-video/

Picture courtesy of Variety By Bob Scott As legions of White Lotus fans eagerly await the much-anticipated third series of the smash hit HBO drama, a gripping warning emerges from the exotic shores of Thailand. White Lotus mastermind Mike White’s quest across Thailand in search of the ultimate location to capture the magic for the show’s upcoming season has been well documented. His journey led him to the stunning island of Koh Samui, where he found himself mesmerised by the heavenly allure of the Four Seasons Resort. Nestled amidst lush mountains and overlooking a shimmering ocean, this paradise flaunts opulent US$9,000-a-night villas and promises a vision like no other. Enter Jasjit Singh Assi, the resort’s general manager, who greeted White with a compelling, yet effortless, sales pitch. But Assi didn’t have to say much. “He was quiet for a bit. Then he said, ‘All right, this is it.’ It was as if he fell in love with it.” Fast forward nearly two years and the entire Thai nation is on the brink of a tourism bonanza as the show gears up for its premiere next year. Set in the fictional haven of the White Lotus resort, this murder-mystery drama has won critical acclaim for its razor-sharp satire of affluent tourists and the locals who serve them. But its appeal stretches beyond the screen, sparking what’s now nicknamed the White Lotus Effect – an insatiable desire among fans to visit filming locations. Thailand is set to play a starring role, doubling as a spectacular advertisement destined to rake in the dollars from Western film productions and thrill-seeking travellers. Just last month, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra jetted to Los Angeles to court Hollywood elites, unveiling a strategic plan set to beef up cash rebates for foreign filmmakers. The proposal, awaiting legislative approval, intends to dial up the rebate cap from 20% to a tantalising 30%, with no ceiling on total reimbursement. Cod Satrusayang, Indochina Productions chief, a Bangkok-based production firm, revealed more. “It’s amazing! We’re catapulted to the top tier in Asia, and holding our own on the global stage.” In a climate where Hollywood is grappling with higher production costs, flagging streaming numbers, and last year’s industry strikes, nations across the globe offer sweeter deals. Canada, Australia, and even the UK are at the forefront, enticing with grand incentives. Meanwhile, emerging players like Indonesia and Jordan offer grants, tax breaks, and cashback schemes to woo the industry bigwigs. Thailand’s own rebate programme launched in 2017 and has proven its mettle by helping to lure The White Lotus crew away from a Japanese sojourn. By lopping millions off the budget with enticing rebates, Thailand has surged ahead in the international filming race. The Thailand Film Office estimates that every dollar shelled out by foreign film Ventures fuels US$2.80 worth of economic activity, a handy boost with aspirations of reeling in a record 40 million tourists next year, reported The LA Times. However, with great fame comes great responsibility. In a grim reminder of the double-edged sword that is cinematic tourism, a 2023 Chinese action flick staged in Thailand ostensibly quelled Chinese visitors. A controversial Apple ad filmed in Thailand faced backlash for painting the nation as outdated, prompting an apology and its removal from social media. And who could forget the notorious aftermath of The Beach, where 8,000 daily pilgrims invaded Koh Phi Phi’s idyllic beauty post-Leonardo DiCaprio’s cinematic splash? The influx devastated marine life and coral reefs, prompting the government to shutter Maya Bay temporarily for rehabilitation, said Udom Matsayawanigul, director of the Thailand Film Office. “The Beach was a lesson for Thailand. The National Parks Department has been vigilant ever since.” The White Lotus isn’t alone in whipping up travel fervour. Emily in Paris sent waves of tourists to France, Bridgerton rekindled Britain’s regal charm, and Squid Game gave South Korea a tantalising spotlight. Yet, nothing quite as potent as the allure of Mike White’s creation. American bookings for Hawaii rocketed 25% after the inaugural season’s Maui backdrop. Season two saw Sicily flooded with travellers, its Taormina setting proving irresistible as restrictions from the pandemic waned, said Misty Belles of luxury travel network Virtuoso. “The location almost becomes a character in and of itself.” Thailand’s already watching bookings surge as anticipation for season 3 builds, with scenes also gracing Bangkok and Phuket. The Four Seasons on Koh Samui, housing some 70,000 locals, relishes a boom, courtesy of the reopened tourism gates, said manager Assi. “Next year, we expect an even more tremendous surge.” Excitement swells even for Thai tourists, buoyed by Lalisa “Lisa” Manobal’s star turn. Manobal, of K-pop titan BLACKPINK fame, promises to draw domestic intrigue too. Even beyond the plush confines of the resort’s infinity pools, preparations abound for an impending tourism tidal wave. Ratchaporn Poolsawadee, president of Koh Samui’s tourism association, revealed plans to ramp up the island’s infrastructure, including increasing daily flights and airport expansions to match the tourism boom. Local restaurateur duo Kanokkorn Lamlert and Patrick Moukarzel felt the strain last year as tourists flocked back. Seafood shortages and price hikes have made business increasingly challenging, yet they predict a nationwide financial windfall from the Koh Samui boom. “They’ll come for Samui but discover so much more,” Moukarzel commented, hinting at broader Thai tourism benefits. Their restaurant, already a hot spot for superfans, plans a star-studded marketing campaign for next season, featuring the White Lotus Beef Ribs – a scrumptious concoction of lotus root, stir-fried mushrooms, and delectably slow-cooked beef. Brace yourselves, the White Lotus mania is about to sweep Thailand – the Land of Smiles is ready to show its pearly whites to the rest of the world. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-06

Driver Accused in Fatal Crash Allegedly Using Phone, Faces Charges Photo: The Thaiger Police have revealed that a tragic crash involving 39-year-old Zhang Yigong, which killed one person and injured several others, was not alcohol-related. They suspect he was using his mobile phone when the accident occurred. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345460-chinese-driver-in-high-speed-collision-wreaks-havoc-in-pattaya/#findComment-19431324

Driver Accused in Fatal Crash Allegedly Using Phone, Faces Charges Photo: The Thaiger Police have revealed that a tragic crash involving 39-year-old Zhang Yigong, which killed one person and injured several others, was not alcohol-related. They suspect he was using his mobile phone when the accident occurred. Zhang was driving a Toyota Alphard van when he collided with 12 cars and motorbikes on Thepprasit Road near the Sukhumvit exit. This reckless drive resulted in the death of 30-year-old Sahaprom Wongmak and left two others injured. Following the incident on December 5, Pattaya City police detained Zhang, charging him with reckless driving causing death and property damage. Despite the severity of the situation, Zhang has refused to speak, baffling authorities since he tested negative for alcohol. Rumors suggest Zhang may have been distracted by his phone and possibly arguing with his girlfriend at the time of the crash. Police have taken Zhang to Bang Lamung Hospital for a drug test, with results pending. Efforts to confirm the insurance status of Zhang's van have been slow due to his silence. However, an interpreter is set to assist today, aiming to break the language barrier and move the investigation forward. Police are determined to gather all necessary evidence and proceed with legal actions. -- 2024-12-06

Phuket's First Government Cancer Center Gets Huge Donations - video File photo for reference only Phuket's medical landscape is set for a big change with the development of its first government-run cancer treatment facility at Vachira Phuket Hospital, boosted by substantial donations totaling 1.5 million baht. This will fund a new Radiation Therapy Building. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345543-phukets-first-government-cancer-center-gets-huge-donations-video/

File photo for reference only Phuket's medical landscape is set for a big change with the development of its first government-run cancer treatment facility at Vachira Phuket Hospital, boosted by substantial donations totaling 1.5 million baht. This will fund a new Radiation Therapy Building. On December 5, Phuket Governor Sophon Suwannarat, his wife Busadee, and local officials officially accepted these donations. Lienkin Rakchon and family contributed 500,000 baht, while Wirat Songsaeng, Managing Director of Mukdara Beach Resort Co Ltd, donated 1 million baht. The ambitious project aims to raise 290 million baht to build a six-storey complex equipped with advanced radiation therapy, nuclear medicine, a chemotherapy unit, and inpatient wards. This facility, spanning 9,000 square meters on a five-rai plot near Pracha Uthit Road, is just 4 kilometers from Vachira Phuket Hospital. The hospital's development committee, led by Pramookpisitt Achariyachai, aims to secure 150 million baht by February 2025 to begin the first phase. Initial therapies are expected to start by September 2026. The facility will serve patients from Phuket, Phang Nga, and Krabi, reducing their need to travel far for treatment. Dr. Wirasak Lothongkham, Director of Vachira Phuket Hospital, emphasized the current struggle, with about 1,000 new cancer cases annually, half requiring radiation. Patients currently travel to provinces like Surat Thani or Bangkok, incurring significant costs for travel and accommodation. A fundraising "phaapaa" ceremony, a traditional Thai event, will occur on February 8 to support the project. It will be led by revered monk Luang Por Sai Thong Techa Thammo. The event invites everyone to contribute to this vital cause. Donations can be sent to Krung Thai Bank, Account Name: Donation for the Radiation Therapy Building, Vachira Phuket Hospital, Account Number: 805-3-11019-3. Contributions are eligible for double tax deductions in Thailand. For more details, contact Vachira Phuket Hospital at 076-361234, extension 0. -- 2024-12-06

Thailand's EV Industry Faces Challenges Amid Subsidy Concerns - video File photo for reference only Thailand's electric vehicle (EV) market is facing significant challenges as major carmakers consider opting out of the government's incentive scheme due to a market slowdown. The Electric Vehicle Association of Thailand (EVAT) suggests that manufacturers might abandon subsidies and reevaluate their production strategies. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345542-thailands-ev-industry-faces-challenges-amid-subsidy-concerns/