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File photo for reference only In celebration of significant national milestones, Vietnamese State President Luong Cuong has announced an allocation exceeding VND834 billion (approximately US$32 million) to honor individuals who have made significant contributions to the nation. This initiative aligns with the upcoming 50th anniversary of the Liberation of the South and National Reunification on April 30, 2025, and the 80th anniversary of Vietnam's founding on September 2, 2025. The tribute will provide monetary gifts of VND500,000 each to individuals who engaged in revolutionary activities before January 1, 1945, leading up to the pivotal August Revolution of that year. The initiative extends to wounded and sick veterans, heroic Vietnamese mothers, and heroes of both the People's Armed Forces and Labor Heroes acknowledged during resistance wars. Additional beneficiaries include those involved in resistance efforts, individuals impacted by Agent Orange/dioxin who are eligible for state support, and former revolutionaries, resistance fighters, and prisoners of war. Family members of fallen soldiers, particularly families with multiple martyrs, and those responsible for maintaining memorial altars for martyrs without surviving relatives, are also recognized. The distribution of these gratitude payments coincides with the national Reunification Day celebrations on April 30. This entire monetary tribute is funded by the central government budget, following a government decree, to ensure that the sacrifices and contributions of these individuals are duly acknowledged and remembered in line with Vietnam's rich history of resilience and unity. Adapted by ASEAN Now from VN Express 2025-04-28

File photo for reference only Vietnam has emerged as the leading source of international students in South Korea's engineering and natural sciences programs, representing 25.1% of foreign students in these fields. This data, released by South Korea's Ministry of Science and Information and Communication Technology, marks the country’s first official survey on international students in science and engineering disciplines. In 2024, South Korea welcomed a total of 29,187 international students pursuing studies in these sectors, including 20,186 undergraduates and 9,001 postgraduates. Following Vietnam, China accounted for 24.5% of these students, and Uzbekistan 9.7%. The number of Korean students studying science and engineering abroad also stands comparably at 29,770, with the majority opting for undergraduate studies. The United States continues to be the preferred destination, drawing 44.9% of these Korean students, followed by Japan (13.9%) and Canada (11.8%). In response to the growing focus on science and technology education, the Korean Government plans to significantly enhance its 2025 investment budget for developing the science and technology workforce. The total budget will rise to 9.28 trillion won (approximately US$6.47 billion), marking an increase of 1.45 trillion won from the previous year. Aimed at fostering talent, the scholarship fund for exceptional students in science and engineering will see an increase from 50.7 billion won to 57.3 billion won. These initiatives reflect South Korea's commitment to strengthening its position as a global leader in science and technology education while nurturing the next generation of innovators and researchers. Adapted by ASEAN Now from VN Express 2025-04-28

File photo for reference only In a tragic event at the Lapu Lapu Day Festival in Vancouver, Canada, nine people lost their lives after a speeding vehicle struck attendees of the street party. The Vancouver Police Department confirmed the incident was not an act of terrorism. The collision occurred at 8:14 p.m. on Saturday, as the festive gathering celebrated Filipino culture in a South Vancouver neighborhood. Several others were injured, adding to the devastating impact of the crash. A 30-year-old Vancouver man was arrested at the scene, with the major crime section of the police leading the investigation. Video shared on social media depicted a chaotic aftermath, with victims and debris scattered along the street, and a black SUV with substantial front damage present. Eyewitness accounts, such as those from Vancouver business owner James Cruzat and Dale Selipe, highlighted the sudden and tragic nature of the event. Cruzat described the moment as heartbreaking, likening it to scenes typically witnessed in fiction rather than reality. Images shared by Canadian media showed emergency response teams actively working amidst large crowds that had gathered for the festival earlier that day. Witness accounts painted a picture of panic and devastation, with festival security noting the overwhelming number of injured and deceased. In the wake of the tragedy, Vancouver Mayor Kenneth Sim and Canadian leaders, including Prime Minister Mark Carney, expressed their condolences to the victims, their families, and Vancouver's Filipino community. The Canadian government signaled its commitment to a thorough investigation, while community leaders emphasized the need for resilience and support. The Philippine government also responded, opening a hotline for affected individuals and maintaining communication with Canadian authorities to assist in the investigation. President Marcos conveyed deep sympathies, committing to collaborative efforts with Canada to ensure a thorough probe. The incident has drawn attention to a harsh reality intersecting joyful celebrations, as communities strive to process the tragedy and seek justice and healing amidst such an unfortunate event. Adapted by ASEAN Now from PhilStar 2025-04-28

File photo for reference only The Department of Education (DepEd) in the Philippines is taking a significant step forward by developing an AI tool aimed at helping schools identify students who may be "at risk of disabilities." This initiative, announced on April 28, seeks to bridge existing gaps in the education system through the AI-based tool known as Screening using AI-Based Assistance for Young children or SABAY. DepEd has faced challenges in identifying and supporting students with disabilities, largely due to regular classroom teachers lacking adequate training and a shortage of specialists qualified to assess diverse learning needs. This has left many children undiagnosed or segregated into special education centres instead of inclusive classrooms. The situation is exacerbated by an acute shortage of over 7,600 special education teachers nationwide. The SABAY project, still in its early stages, aims to reduce screening time and lessen the workload on teachers, ultimately ensuring that children needing intervention receive timely support. Erika Legara, managing director of DepEd's Education Center for AI Research (ECAIR), highlighted the focus on creating a tool that generates interpretable and real-world insights to guide school-level decision-making effectively. DepEd is collaborating with the Bureau of Learning Delivery – Student Inclusion Division, special education experts, and health professionals to finalize the architecture and design of SABAY. The department plans to launch pilot data collection in select schools across Metro Manila, before scaling the initiative to other regions. The AI tool is also set to enhance the implementation of the Child Find System, as supported by Republic Act 11650, or the Inclusive Education Act, which mandates active measures to locate and support children with disabilities or learning challenges. In 2022, DepEd's Child Find Policy directed public school teachers to identify children in their communities who have never attended school or who struggle with learning. Teachers were advised to use classroom-based assessments to detect developmental delays and strengths while awaiting formal medical evaluations. Through SABAY, DepEd underscores its commitment to inclusive education, ensuring all Filipino children have access to quality education regardless of their abilities. As Sabrina Angara, a representative for DepEd, stated, the project ensures "learners with disabilities are no longer left behind." Adapted by ASEAN Now from PhilStar 2025-04-28

File photo for reference only In a significant move to improve healthcare accessibility for underserved communities, a new Bagong Urgent Care and Ambulatory Services (BUCAS) Center has been inaugurated in Manila. This outpatient clinic is the result of a partnership between the Department of Health (DOH) and San Miguel Corporation (SMC) through its San Miguel Foundation, Inc. (SMF). The BUCAS Center is located at the San Miguel Foundation’s Better World Smokey Mountain facility in Tondo, Manila, and operates in collaboration with the Tondo Medical Center (TMC). It aims to deliver essential outpatient services to the local community, allowing patients to receive free consultations and most laboratory examinations under PhilHealth coverage. Building on the success of the first privately-supported BUCAS Center at Better World Clinic in Cubao, Quezon City, this new facility represents a continued commitment to broadening healthcare access. Last year’s establishment in Cubao was in partnership with the Quirino Memorial Medical Center (QMMC). Health Secretary Ted Herbosa has championed the BUCAS program as part of his “28 for 28 by 28” initiative, which seeks to create 28 urgent care centres serving 28 million Filipinos by 2028. This initiative is designed to alleviate strain on the healthcare system by providing quicker access to minor procedures and essential medical services. In addition, the BUCAS Center offers PhilHealth Konsulta Packages, with TMC medical personnel providing services. For any lab tests not covered by PhilHealth, patients can either pay out of pocket or seek assistance through the Malasakit Center. The BUCAS Center at Better World Smokey Mountain is open every Monday and Tuesday, while the Center at Better World Clinic-Cubao operates Tuesdays and Wednesdays, with dermatology consultations twice a month. Appointments can be scheduled at the Better World Clinic Cubao, and PhilHealth Konsulta Package enrollment is available by contacting PhilHealth Corporation Action Center. SMC Chairman and CEO Ramon S. Ang highlighted the crucial role of BUCAS Centers in offering timely medical attention, addressing the challenge faced by many Filipinos who endure long waits for healthcare due to an overwhelmed system. "It’s an opportunity for our Better World facilities to make healthcare more accessible," Ang noted, ensuring that essential medical services are accessible to those in need without delay. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Manila Bulletin 2025-04-28

Chinese National Arrested for Selling Counterfeit Goods in Bangkok Mall Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Today, in a significant bust, Bangkok police arrested Yang Jin, a 48-year-old Chinese national, at a prominent shopping mall in the Pratunam area. Yang was found smuggling and selling counterfeit merchandise, with authorities seizing over 27,856 items from his store. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359112-chinese-national-arrested-for-selling-counterfeit-goods-in-bangkok-mall/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Today, in a significant bust, Bangkok police arrested Yang Jin, a 48-year-old Chinese national, at a prominent shopping mall in the Pratunam area. Yang was found smuggling and selling counterfeit merchandise, with authorities seizing over 27,856 items from his store. The successful operation was spearheaded by Police Major General Tasnaphum Charupraphan, with key contributions from Police Colonel Phuwadech Julkasevi and Police Lieutenant Visarut Thaichanad. The counterfeit goods included an array of items such as clothing, accessories, watches, necklaces, and earrings, all mimicking registered trademarks. Yang Jin was apprehended in the Phaya Thai subdistrict of the Ratchathewi district following police intelligence about illegal activities within the shopping centre. Upon arrival, Yang identified himself as the owner, and police presented a search warrant. Their inspection revealed not only fake goods but also sweets illegally imported from China. The entire stock was confiscated as evidence. During questioning, Yang confessed to owning the counterfeit items and admitted to smuggling them into Thailand in collaboration with another Chinese associate. Initially, Yang was charged with "possessing for sale goods bearing counterfeit trademarks and imitating trademarks registered in the Kingdom." Following his arrest, he was transferred to the Economic Crime Suppression Division for further legal proceedings. This incident underscores the police's ongoing efforts to crack down on counterfeit trade in Bangkok, highlighting the significant role of cross-border collaborations and intelligence-sharing in tackling such illicit activities. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-04-28

Drunk Driver Causes Fatal Collision in Lamphun, Killing Mechanic Pickup truck of the drunk driver | Photo via KhaoSod Tragedy struck in Lamphun province early this morning when a mechanic from Phayao lost his life in a collision involving a drunk driver. The fatal incident occurred on the Li-Lamphun Road in Pa Phlu subdistrict, Ban Hong district, before sunrise on April 28. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359111-drunk-driver-causes-fatal-collision-in-lamphun-killing-mechanic/

Pickup truck of the drunk driver | Photo via KhaoSod Tragedy struck in Lamphun province early this morning when a mechanic from Phayao lost his life in a collision involving a drunk driver. The fatal incident occurred on the Li-Lamphun Road in Pa Phlu subdistrict, Ban Hong district, before sunrise on April 28. Local police from Ban Hong, alongside emergency responders from the Phutthaisawan Foundation, Pa Phlu Subdistrict Administrative Organisation, and other rescue groups, rushed to the scene. They found a pickup truck with significant front-end damage and a severely damaged motorbike nearby. Sadly, the 45-year-old motorbike rider had passed away due to the impact. The driver of the pickup truck was found to be under the influence of alcohol, with a staggering blood alcohol level of 240 milligrammes per decilitre. According to initial reports, the driver lost control of the vehicle while heading to refuel at a gas station. His truck veered across lanes on a downhill curve, colliding with the mechanic's oncoming motorbike. The mechanic was en route to visit a friend when the tragedy occurred. The driver has been taken into custody by police, who plan to pursue legal action for this tragic and preventable accident. This incident highlights the severe consequences of drink-driving and underscores the ongoing need for vigilant law enforcement and public awareness around alcohol-related road safety. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-04-28

PM Paetongtarn Pushes for Transport Projects to Boost Northeast Thailand PM Paetongtarn during a meeting on Thai exports on April 22 | Photo via Ing Shinawatra/Facebook Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra advocates major transport development initiatives in northeast Thailand, ahead of a mobile Cabinet meeting in Nakhon Phanom on April 29. This agenda aims to transform Sakon Nakhon, Nakhon Phanom, and Mukdahan provinces into a dynamic economic and tourism hub along the Mekong River. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359110-pm-paetongtarn-pushes-for-transport-projects-to-boost-northeast-thailand/

PM Paetongtarn during a meeting on Thai exports on April 22 | Photo via Ing Shinawatra/Facebook Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra advocates major transport development initiatives in northeast Thailand, ahead of a mobile Cabinet meeting in Nakhon Phanom on April 29. This agenda aims to transform Sakon Nakhon, Nakhon Phanom, and Mukdahan provinces into a dynamic economic and tourism hub along the Mekong River. Today, the PM's visit highlights key areas of focus, including cross-border trade, water resource management, sustainable development, and drug suppression efforts along the Mekong River, according to Government Spokesperson Jirayu Houngsub. Key proposals include increasing flights to Nakhon Phanom and Sakon Nakhon airports, with Mukdahan Airport's environmental study on track for completion by year's end. Rail infrastructure is also advancing with a new 355-kilometre double-track railway between Ban Phai and Mukdahan-Phanom, set for a 2028 opening, and further regional railway extensions under review. A border cargo centre in Nakhon Phanom is slated to open this year, enhancing connectivity via the R12 route linking Thailand with Laos, Vietnam, and southern China. More than 20 road projects are underway, emphasizing enhanced regional and cross-border connectivity. Jirayu articulated the government's aim to elevate secondary cities like Nakhon Phanom, Sakon Nakhon, and Mukdahan as top destinations, boosting tourism and local economies throughout the year. In healthcare, the launch of the Faculty of Medicine at Nakhon Phanom University seeks to address the shortage of medical professionals in the upper northeast. During her visit, the PM will assess projects like a water rehabilitation initiative at Don Koen Park in Sakon Nakhon and a sustainable fashion model at the handicraft centre in Nawa district of Nakhon Phanom. She will also lead discussions on cross-border drug trafficking at the Royal Thai Navy's Mekong Riverine Unit and participate in a cultural ceremony along the Mekong River in Nakhon Phanom. These transport and development projects aim to foster economic growth, improve infrastructure, and enhance the living standards of residents in Thailand's northeastern region. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-04-28

PPRP Leader Prawit Confirms Party Will Not Rejoin Government Coalition Palang Pracharath Party | Photo via Spacebar.th General Prawit Wongsuwon, leader of the Palang Pracharath Party (PPRP), has firmly stated that the party will not re-enter the government coalition, dispelling rumours of MPs defecting to the Kla Dharma Party. This declaration came on April 27, the same day the PPRP introduced a new party logo. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359108-pprp-leader-prawit-confirms-party-will-not-rejoin-government-coalition/

Palang Pracharath Party | Photo via Spacebar.th General Prawit Wongsuwon, leader of the Palang Pracharath Party (PPRP), has firmly stated that the party will not re-enter the government coalition, dispelling rumours of MPs defecting to the Kla Dharma Party. This declaration came on April 27, the same day the PPRP introduced a new party logo. Despite Captain Thamanat Prompow, Chief Adviser of the Kla Dharma Party, suggesting openness to welcoming more opposition MPs, Prawit assured that all PPRP members remained committed, as evidenced by their attendance at the annual general meeting. Clarifying the party's position amidst speculation, Prawit responded simply, "We will not join," when asked about potentially rejoining the ruling coalition led by the Pheu Thai Party. The PPRP had previously been part of the coalition under the administration of Pheu Thai-backed Srettha Thavisin during the years 2023 and 2024. Meanwhile, PPRP Secretary-General Paiboon Nititawan remarked that former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra’s comments about PPRP’s non-involvement were likely a way to justify his unsuccessful efforts to recruit the party. In a strategic move, the PPRP elected two new deputy leaders at the meeting: Thirachai Phuvanatnaranubala, who will focus on economic affairs, and Suradet Yasawat, who will oversee the upper northern region. Suradet reaffirmed the party's commitment to protecting the monarchy and prioritising economic improvement. Additionally, he mentioned the aspiration for the PPRP to secure 60 MP seats in the upcoming election and their opposition to the legalisation of casinos, a significant policy initiative of the Pheu Thai Party. With these strategic positions and declarations, the PPRP aims to strengthen its identity and policy objectives, maintaining a clear stance ahead of the next electoral cycle. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-04-28

Thailand Eyes New Economic Zones in North and Northeast to Boost Growth Thailand's Laem Chabang Port, part of the EEC | Photo via Joesboy/Getty Images Signature Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra is poised to consider a proposal aimed at establishing new economic zones in Thailand’s north and northeast regions. The initiative, put forth by a House of Representatives extraordinary committee, seeks to stimulate regional economies currently overshadowed by the highly promoted Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC). Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359106-thailand-eyes-new-economic-zones-in-north-and-northeast-to-boost-growth/

Thailand's Laem Chabang Port, part of the EEC | Photo via Joesboy/Getty Images Signature Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra is poised to consider a proposal aimed at establishing new economic zones in Thailand’s north and northeast regions. The initiative, put forth by a House of Representatives extraordinary committee, seeks to stimulate regional economies currently overshadowed by the highly promoted Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC). Tachaphol Kanjanakul, an advisor to the committee, announced plans to present a draft proposal to the Prime Minister during a mobile Cabinet meeting in Nakhon Phanom from April 28 to 29. The proposal intends to focus initially on the northeast, outlining the creation of 10 special economic development zones in both the northeastern and northern provinces. The EEC, covering areas including Chon Buri, Rayong, and Chachoengsao, aims to become a high-tech industrial hub featuring 12 targeted S-curve industries. Despite this, its full economic potential hasn't been realized due to infrastructure project delays. Global economic factors, such as previously proposed tariffs by former US President Donald Trump, highlight the need for diversified economic strategies. The move to establish additional economic zones is seen as essential to spreading economic growth beyond the EEC, ultimately benefiting wider populations. The northeast, in particular, is deemed an advantageous location due to its proximity to neighbouring countries. According to committee studies, investor interest in this region primarily lies in sectors like agribusiness, logistics, healthcare and wellness, digital technology, and tourism. If these new zones are approved, they could attract investments totalling 10 billion baht and create substantial employment opportunities for local communities. This strategic endeavour aims to extend economic benefits more broadly across Thailand, fostering sustainable development and regional prosperity. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-04-28

DSI Intensifies Probe into Cyberattack on 16 Thai Government Websites DSI investigates a suspects computer | Photo via DSI The Department of Special Investigation (DSI) has ramped up its investigation into a significant cyberattack that crippled 16 Thai government websites, affecting online services in Bangkok, Nakhon Pathom, and Chon Buri. The breach, known as Operation Shutdown Backlink, began on October 29, 2024, when hackers infiltrated government sites, redirecting traffic to illegal online gambling platforms in exchange for payments. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359105-dsi-intensifies-probe-into-cyberattack-on-16-thai-government-websites/

DSI investigates a suspects computer | Photo via DSI The Department of Special Investigation (DSI) has ramped up its investigation into a significant cyberattack that crippled 16 Thai government websites, affecting online services in Bangkok, Nakhon Pathom, and Chon Buri. The breach, known as Operation Shutdown Backlink, began on October 29, 2024, when hackers infiltrated government sites, redirecting traffic to illegal online gambling platforms in exchange for payments. This sophisticated attack disrupted citizen access to essential government services at 11 major access points across the affected provinces. As part of the investigation, more than 100 related bank accounts with financial transactions totalling over 20 billion baht have been seized. Pattamaporn Krisanayut, Director of the Division of Technology and Information Cases 1, along with special case investigators, has issued summonses to 21 suspects involved in the case. These individuals face charges including unauthorised access to computer systems, illegal data modification, facilitating online gambling, and money laundering. Thus far, 13 suspects have reported for questioning between April 1 and April 23, 2025, while eight remain unaccounted for. The DSI has also summoned two additional suspects, raising the total number to 23. Further inquiries revealed that several other government agencies fell victim to similar attacks, resulting in widespread service disruption and public inconvenience. In response, the DSI's director-general has urged the Division of Technology and Information Cases to expedite the investigation and unravel the network of perpetrators, identifying ringleaders, accomplices, and financial backers. To prevent future breaches, the department is devising a set of preventive measures aimed at bolstering the security of government websites. These measures will be crucial in safeguarding online services and maintaining the integrity of government communications. As investigations progress, efforts remain focused on bringing those responsible to justice and strengthening cybersecurity infrastructure. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-04-28

US Targets Thai Products for Stringent Origin Verification Amid Trade Concerns Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira at the the 2024 Outstanding State Enterprise Award Ceremony | Photo via Royal Government House The United States has earmarked 50 to 60 Thai products for stringent origin verification to curb false origin claims in exports, Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira announced. This move aims to prevent the circumvention of trade regulations and misuse of trade privileges granted to Thailand. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359104-us-targets-thai-products-for-stringent-origin-verification-amid-trade-concerns/

Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira at the the 2024 Outstanding State Enterprise Award Ceremony | Photo via Royal Government House The United States has earmarked 50 to 60 Thai products for stringent origin verification to curb false origin claims in exports, Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira announced. This move aims to prevent the circumvention of trade regulations and misuse of trade privileges granted to Thailand. To address the issue, the Thai government has established three key measures: Targeted Inspections: Identify specific products and conduct on-site inspections at the factories producing these goods to ensure compliance. Cost and Origin Evaluation: Assess production costs by scrutinising certificates of origin (C/O) to verify the percentage of domestically sourced materials and adherence to C/O criteria. Centralised Issuance: Designate the Commerce Ministry as the exclusive authority for issuing C/Os, enhancing control and eliminating the current involvement of the Federation of Thai Industries and the Thai Chamber of Commerce. Additionally, Thai officials are investigating whether the US requires product origin verification at the sub-code level for each item to ensure compliance. An anonymous Finance Ministry source highlighted that Thailand's trade surplus with the US has grown significantly over the past few years, potentially due to exports with falsely claimed Thai origin. Reports suggest some Chinese products use Thailand as a production base for re-export, leveraging the Thailand-China free trade agreement that eliminates import tariffs. The Finance Minister's planned trade negotiation visit to Washington on April 23 was postponed at the US's request, as they asked Thailand to review proposed trade measures beforehand. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra stressed the importance of negotiations based on mutual benefit, asserting that every country is significant and Thailand should enter talks with clarity about what each side should offer. "We are not going to accept any offer. That’s not acceptable. Every country matters. We must enter negotiations knowing what we are prepared to offer and what they should offer us," she emphasised. These measures aim to maintain fair trade practices and strengthen the integrity of Thailand's export operations, balancing international relations while protecting its trade interests. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-04-28

Explosive Attack in Yala Claims Lives of Two Police Officers Photo: Thai PBS World Tragedy struck in Thailand's southernmost province of Yala today, as violence continues to disrupt the region. An improvised explosive device (IED) detonated in Than Tho district, claiming the lives of two border patrol police officers and injuring a third. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359102-explosive-attack-in-yala-claims-lives-of-two-police-officers/

Photo: Thai PBS World Tragedy struck in Thailand's southernmost province of Yala today, as violence continues to disrupt the region. An improvised explosive device (IED) detonated in Than Tho district, claiming the lives of two border patrol police officers and injuring a third. The attack occurred around 9.30am while the officers were returning from a health check-up. The victims have been identified as Pol Senior Sergeant Major Issares Intarapetch and Pol Sergeant Monpitak Petchnui. The injured officer has not been named yet, and further details of his condition are awaited. This incident follows a recent spate of violence in southern Thailand. Just days earlier, on April 23, a deadly ambush in Songkhla province claimed the life of a 16-year-old Buddhist novice and injured several others. The attack occurred as the group was about to leave a temple to collect alms. These tragic events underscore the ongoing challenges of maintaining peace and security in Thailand's southern provinces, an area long troubled by unrest. As investigations continue, authorities seek to bolster safety measures and bring those responsible to justice, while the community mourns the loss of its fallen officers and innocent civilians caught in the conflict. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai PBS World 2025-04-28

Thief Swipes Cash from Vendor at Pattaya Market, Sparking Concerns Picture courtesy of Pattaya News A cunning thief recently targeted a Thai food vendor at a bustling market in Pattaya, making off with cash and leaving behind a worried community. The incident, which police suspect is part of a rising trend of street thefts, occurred yesterday, April 27, at Khao Mai Kaew Market. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359101-thief-swipes-cash-from-vendor-at-pattaya-market-sparking-concerns/

Picture courtesy of Pattaya News A cunning thief recently targeted a Thai food vendor at a bustling market in Pattaya, making off with cash and leaving behind a worried community. The incident, which police suspect is part of a rising trend of street thefts, occurred yesterday, April 27, at Khao Mai Kaew Market. Around 8.06am, officers at Huai Yai Police Station received a report about the theft. Despite patrol units quickly arriving on the scene, the perpetrator had already disappeared into the morning traffic. The victim, 60-year-old curry vendor Warin Phongsungnoen, recounted the unsettling encounter to the authorities. While serving customers, a tall, muscular man approached on a motorbike, wearing a long-sleeve shirt and trousers. Under the guise of ordering two bags of curry for 40 baht, he distracted Warin. After she handed over the food, the man tossed it aside, asserting he no longer wanted it, before swiftly snatching her money basket, taking approximately 2,000 baht, and fleeing the scene. This brazen act underscores a growing fear among market traders and street vendors across Thailand regarding their safety and livelihoods. The incident has sparked calls for increased vigilance and security measures to protect small businesses from such crimes. As authorities investigate, they urge vendors to be cautious and report any suspicious activity immediately to help prevent further occurrences. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-04-28

Tragic Incident as Thai Man Fatally Struck After Darting Into Traffic Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A 35-year-old Thai man's life came to a heartbreaking end on Ban Huai Khai Nao Road in Bang Lamung, as he deliberately dashed into oncoming traffic. While one driver narrowly managed to evade him, a second vehicle tragically couldn't stop in time, resulting in a fatal accident. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359099-tragic-incident-as-thai-man-fatally-struck-after-darting-into-traffic/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A 35-year-old Thai man's life came to a heartbreaking end on Ban Huai Khai Nao Road in Bang Lamung, as he deliberately dashed into oncoming traffic. While one driver narrowly managed to evade him, a second vehicle tragically couldn't stop in time, resulting in a fatal accident. Police Lieutenant Monthathip Thongsai from Huai Yai Police Station responded to reports of a man attempting to jump in front of passing vehicles in Mueang subdistrict, Chon Buri. Upon arrival, police and rescue crews from the Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan Foundation found the man, wearing a red long-sleeved shirt and black shorts, deceased and without identification. The driver of the first vehicle recounted a harrowing experience: as the man walked alongside the road, he suddenly bolted into the car's path. The driver's moderate speed allowed him to evade a collision by swerving. However, the man attempted to open the vehicle's door, leading the driver to flee and immediately notify the police. Upon returning to the location, the driver discovered the man's body lying in the roadway. Dashcam footage from the vehicle captured the incident, suggesting the man repeated this risky behaviour with another vehicle, culminating in the tragic outcome. Law enforcement collected crucial evidence, including the dashcam video, to determine precisely what happened. The police plan to scrutinize additional CCTV footage to piece together the series of events preceding the man’s death. This unfortunate incident highlights the unpredictable nature of such events and underscores the importance of driver attentiveness and immediate reporting to authorities in emergencies. The investigation aims to uncover more details to provide context to this tragic event. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-04-28