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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/

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. Launched in 2022, the EV3.0 scheme offers benefits like reduced taxes and subsidies, but requires local assembly by 2024 with specific production targets. Chinese manufacturers have expressed concerns about these requirements, questioning their effectiveness in boosting sales amid economic difficulties, according to EVAT President Suroj Sangsanit. Subsidies under EV3.0 include up to 150,000 baht for electric vehicles under 2 million baht, and 18,000 baht for electric motorcycles priced below 150,000 baht. Automakers must adhere to a strict production rule, manufacturing one locally assembled vehicle for each imported car, increasing to a 1.5 ratio if production starts next year. In October, sales of battery electric vehicles dropped by 49.7% from the previous year to 3,717 units, while traditional car sales fell by 27.8% to 11,562, according to the Federation of Thai Industries. Brands are considering price cuts to boost sales, but such tactics have previously failed as buyers hold out for further reductions. The decision to relax production requirements rests with the National EV Policy Committee. The Federation of Thai Industries is expected to urge the committee to reconsider the rules to aid struggling manufacturers. Despite these hurdles, EVAT predicts sales of 82,000 electric vehicles this year, representing a 14% market share, up from 12% last year, with expectations of reaching 15% next year. As the industry navigates these challenges, the future of Thailand's EV sector remains uncertain. -- 2024-12-06

Thailand Eyes Direct Flights from US Amid Growing Tourist Demand File photo for reference only The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is pushing for direct flights from the United States to Thailand, as local airlines remain hesitant about these routes. This initiative comes after the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) positively assessed Thailand’s aviation safety. The Transport Ministry hopes this will upgrade Thailand from Category 2 to Category 1, allowing Thai airlines to expand into the US market. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345541-thailand-eyes-direct-flights-from-us-amid-growing-tourist-demand/

File photo for reference only The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is pushing for direct flights from the United States to Thailand, as local airlines remain hesitant about these routes. This initiative comes after the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) positively assessed Thailand’s aviation safety. The Transport Ministry hopes this will upgrade Thailand from Category 2 to Category 1, allowing Thai airlines to expand into the US market. Direct flights from Bangkok to Los Angeles by Thai Airways stopped in 2015 due to unprofitability and a downgrade by the FAA. Siripakorn Cheawsamoot from TAT explained that Thai Airways must focus on more profitable routes during its rehabilitation and amid a global aircraft shortage. The US could bring one million visitors to Thailand this year. TAT is in talks with international airlines for direct flights to start by winter 2025 or 2026. Currently, no US airlines offer direct flights to Thailand. Air Canada provides direct flights from Vancouver to Bangkok. TAT is also in discussions with Taiwan’s EVA Air and US carriers Delta and United Airlines. EVA Air already operates direct flights from Europe to Bangkok and might apply a similar model for US routes. The US market could grow to over 1.1 million visitors next year, and US tourists tend to stay longer, contributing significantly to Thailand's economy. To capitalize on this opportunity, TAT will open a new office in Chicago targeting travelers from the Midwest and certain Canadian regions, focusing on affluent tourists and those in the modern agricultural sector. -- 2024-12-06

Rama II Road Construction Halted for Safe New Year Travel File photo for reference only The Transport Ministry is halting construction activities on Rama II Road from December 26 to January 2. This measure aims to facilitate smoother travel for those heading south during the New Year holiday. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345538-rama-ii-road-construction-halted-for-safe-new-year-travel/

File photo for reference only The Transport Ministry is halting construction activities on Rama II Road from December 26 to January 2. This measure aims to facilitate smoother travel for those heading south during the New Year holiday. Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit noted the importance of easing travel on this major route. Additionally, efforts are being made to restore the road surface as much as possible to reduce congestion. Travelers are advised to plan their routes in advance to avoid traffic jams. This suspension follows a crane accident on November 29 at the construction site of the Ekkachai-Ban Phaeo Intercity Motorway 82 (M82) in Samut Sakhon, which resulted in six worker deaths and nine injuries. Minister Suriya has tasked agencies like the Department of Highways and the Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand to assess contractor performance. This evaluation will be noted in a Contractor's Notebook, which may lead to the removal of contractors failing to meet safety standards. A fact-finding committee, including the Engineering Institute of Thailand, has been set up to investigate the M82 accident. Results are expected by mid-month. Meanwhile, efforts to clear the accident site are underway, with the removal of concrete segments and dismantling of a steel structure expected to be completed soon. -- 2024-12-06

Ukrainian woman found dead in Krabi hotel with suicide letter By Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ มูลนิธิกระบี่พิทักษ์ประชา A Ukrainian woman left a suicide note and took her own life at a hotel room in the southern province of Krabi, a few days before her body was discovered by a hotel maid yesterday, December 5. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345536-ukrainian-woman-found-dead-in-krabi-hotel-with-suicide-letter/

Photo via Facebook/ มูลนิธิกระบี่พิทักษ์ประชา By Petch Petpailin A Ukrainian woman left a suicide note and took her own life at a hotel room in the southern province of Krabi, a few days before her body was discovered by a hotel maid yesterday, December 5. The maid, whose identity was not disclosed, alerted officers from Mueang Krabi Police Station to investigate the room on the fourth floor of the hotel, where she found the lifeless body of 23 year old Ukrainian national Anastasia Kuchma. The hotel, located in Soi Maharat 12 on Maharat Road in Mueang Krabi district, chose not to disclose its name to the public. Upon investigation, police found Kuchma lying face down on the bed. The floor near the bed was covered in blood. She bore no visible wounds and there were no signs of a struggle in the room. Officers estimated she died one to two days prior to being discovered. In the corner of the room, police found two plastic bottles, one of which contained an opaque white liquid. The bottle was sealed with a cotton wool ball instead of a lid. Additionally, two mobile phones, valuables, asthma medication, and a suicide note were found in the room. In one of the notes, Kuchma wrote… “If I am dead, then my plan has succeeded. I sincerely apologise for any inconvenience caused by my actions. If I am not mistaken, the money I have left in this envelope, CHF 1,000 and 1,000 euros (nearly 75,000 baht), should cover cremation and other costs.” Request to conceal cause of death Kuchma also expressed her wish to be cremated, with her ashes scattered at sea or in a natural setting. She specified that she did not want an elaborate funeral or anyone mourning her death. She requested that the true cause of her death not be revealed to her family and expressed her wish not to have her body repatriated to Ukraine. Furthermore, she wished for all her valuables to be donated to charity. The maid told Amarin TV that Kuchma checked into the hotel alone on December 1 and was due to check out yesterday. When she failed to appear at the hotel lobby, the maid went to her room to investigate. Detecting an unpleasant smell emanating from the room, the maid initially thought it was rubbish. She knocked on the door to remind Kuchma about her check-out schedule but received no response. Using a spare key, she entered the room and was shocked to discover the woman’s lifeless body. The maid said she asked rescuers to clean the room as she did not dare to do it herself. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-06