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File photo for reference only In a move to energize Thailand's economy, the Bank of Thailand lowered its key interest rate by 0.25% on Wednesday, responding to government pleas for economic relief and a weaker baht to enhance exports. The Monetary Policy Committee voted 6-1 in favor of reducing the one-day repurchase rate to 2.00%, citing increased economic risks. Reacting to the decision, Thai stocks saw a midday rise of 1.6%. The baht held steady around 33.70 against the US dollar. The Board's rate decision aligns with one-third of economists' forecasts, while others expected rates to stay flat at their initial 2024 meeting. Last December, the rates were kept unchanged, preceding an unforeseen rate cut in October. "The Thai economy is slowing down, mainly due to issues in the industrial sector and foreign competition," the central bank noted, while highlighting domestic demand and tourism as positives. External trade policies from major economies and structural challenges are also adding pressure. The Thai cabinet had urged a rate cut to control inflation, keeping it within the 1-3% target range. In a statement, the International Monetary Fund also recommended lower rates to ease borrowing costs. For 2023, Thailand experienced a low inflation average of 0.4%, the lowest in four years. January saw inflation at 1.3%, and the Ministry of Commerce forecasts a modest increase to an average of 0.8% for the year amidst a slower economic recovery. Economic growth in Thailand was a mere 2.5% last year, falling short of the expected 2.9% and lagging behind neighbors like Indonesia. The central bank attributed low inflation to factors like falling oil prices and strong competition from imported goods, chiefly Chinese. While inflation remains low, it's not considered a sign of deflation, benefiting the cost of living and operating costs. However, inflation could be affected by global oil price trends and domestic energy subsidies. Financial conditions are described as "tight," with credit expansion stabilizing but SME loans in troubled industries shrinking. Consumer credit has decreased due to high household debt, standing at 89% of GDP, one of Asia's highest levels, albeit economists suggest 70% as optimal. The committee emphasized that the rate cut aims to ease financial burdens without jeopardizing long-term financial stability, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-02-26

Flu Cases Soar Over 130,000 in Just Two Months, DDC Warns Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post The Department of Disease Control (DDC) has sounded the alarm over a massive wave of influenza, with more than 130,000 cases reported in just the past two months. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352965-flu-cases-soar-over-130000-in-just-two-months-ddc-warns/

Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post The Department of Disease Control (DDC) has sounded the alarm over a massive wave of influenza, with more than 130,000 cases reported in just the past two months. DDC Director-General Panumas Yanwetsakul disclosed that between January 1 and February 24, the nation recorded 131,826 influenza cases, including 12 tragic deaths. The outbreak primarily affects children aged five to nine, followed by infants, toddlers, and those aged 10 to 14. The virus has hit the northern region hardest, with 258.44 cases per 100,000 people. The northeast recorded 175.88 cases per 100,000, and the south reported 138.85 cases. In particular, Phayao has been severely impacted, showing the highest infection rate nationwide at 635.55 cases per 100,000, trailed by Lamphun and Chiang Rai. Meanwhile, Bangkok witnessed 331.85 cases per 100,000 residents. Alarmingly, the current infection rate is anticipated to be at least 1.6 times higher than the same timeframe last year, surpassing the five-year average morbidity rate. In 2024, there were 668,027 cases and 51 deaths, with the AH1N1 subvariant being dominant. Panumas urges flu vaccinations, especially for high-risk groups such as seniors over 65, young children, individuals with obesity or chronic illnesses, and pregnant women. He suggested that those showing flu symptoms stay home for three to seven days, or until fully recovered, to curb the virus. The DDC also strongly advises the public to wash hands frequently and wear masks in crowded spaces. Immediate medical help is recommended if symptoms persist, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-26

Intriguing Border Arrest: Ketamine Found in Woman's Underwear Photo via Facebook สวท.สระแก้ว A recent border arrest has caught public attention as a 28-year-old Thai woman, Sararat Saengmook, was discovered with 0.56 grams of ketamine hidden in her underwear. The incident took place at the Khlong Luek Border Checkpoint in Sa Kaeo Province, Thailand, after Sararat crossed from Poipet, Cambodia, where she worked as a party entertainer. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352962-intriguing-border-arrest-ketamine-found-in-womans-underwear/

Photo via Facebook สวท.สระแก้ว A recent border arrest has caught public attention as a 28-year-old Thai woman, Sararat Saengmook, was discovered with 0.56 grams of ketamine hidden in her underwear. The incident took place at the Khlong Luek Border Checkpoint in Sa Kaeo Province, Thailand, after Sararat crossed from Poipet, Cambodia, where she worked as a party entertainer. While attempting to cross the border around 10:30 am on February 25, Sararat's suspicious behavior led officials to search her and her belongings. Initially, nothing was found in her luggage or shoulder bag. However, a more detailed search revealed a zip-lock bag concealed within the double layers of fabric in the crotch of her underwear. Upon discovery, Sararat confessed that the drug had been given to her by a customer at a pub in Poipet. She intended to use it upon returning to her home in Bangkok. Following her confession, Sararat was taken to Khlong Luek Police Station for further legal proceedings. Ketamine is classified as a Category 2 drug in Thailand, meaning Sararat could face up to two years in prison, a fine of up to 40,000 baht, or both. The case highlights ongoing efforts by Thai authorities to curb drug smuggling across borders, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-26

East Pattaya Faces Waste Woes: How the City is Reacting Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail A massive illegal waste dump near Motorway No.7 in East Pattaya has caused public outrage and prompted a large-scale cleanup operation. A nearly 1-kilometer stretch of road was found buried under construction debris, foam boxes, and tree branches. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352961-east-pattaya-faces-waste-woes-how-the-city-is-reacting/

Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail A massive illegal waste dump near Motorway No.7 in East Pattaya has caused public outrage and prompted a large-scale cleanup operation. A nearly 1-kilometer stretch of road was found buried under construction debris, foam boxes, and tree branches. Mayor Winai Inpitak spearheaded the cleanup with the Public Health Department of Nong Prue Municipality, using JCB excavators and trucks to clear the mess just before the municipal landfill. The secluded, unlit location made it a hotspot for unlawful dumping. “There's a proper facility for construction waste," Mayor Winai emphasized. "We must preserve our environment by using it." In response to this recurring problem, the municipality has introduced a cash reward system. Residents can earn money by reporting illegal dumping, encouraging community vigilance. Reports can be made directly to the municipality to help maintain a clean environment. Additionally, Mayor Winai announced frequent patrols by municipal officers and plans to block vehicle access to the affected area to prevent future incidents. The scale of waste shocked locals, who are demanding tougher penalties for culprits. Mayor Winai reassured the public of the municipality's commitment to restoring cleanliness. As cleanup continues, residents are encouraged to report any illegal dumping activities and use the designated landfill, aiming to end this environmental issue, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-26

Undercover Tip Leads to Major Motorbike Theft Arrest In a bold midnight operation on February 25, Pattaya police uncovered and halted a high-speed motorcycle theft ring, catching the culprits red-handed. The crackdown took place at 12:30 AM in the Khao Ta Lo area, after vigilant residents tipped off law enforcement. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352960-undercover-tip-leads-to-major-motorbike-theft-arrest/

In a bold midnight operation on February 25, Pattaya police uncovered and halted a high-speed motorcycle theft ring, catching the culprits red-handed. The crackdown took place at 12:30 AM in the Khao Ta Lo area, after vigilant residents tipped off law enforcement. Officers from Bang Lamung Police Station were stunned to find six motorcycles, stripped and concealed under a tarpaulin, hidden behind a simple wall. Pieces from the bikes were scattered everywhere, resembling a dismantled motorbike puzzle. Attention quickly turned to a suspicious repair shop at the corner of the building, owned by a 35-year-old man known as "Benz." Inside, authorities discovered a stash of motorbike parts and two intact motorcycles ready for confiscation. Despite "Benz" claiming everything in the shop was his, police were unconvinced and took him in for further questioning, bringing a significant theft operation to a screeching halt, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-26

Thailand Dismisses Claims of 94% Drop in Chinese Tourists Picture courtesy of Hanny Naibaho, Unsplash The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is dismissing rumors that Chinese tourist numbers have plummeted by 94%. TAT Governor, Thapanee Kiatphaibool, assures that Thailand still ranks as the top destination for Chinese travelers. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352958-thailand-dismisses-claims-of-94-drop-in-chinese-tourists/

Picture courtesy of Hanny Naibaho, Unsplash The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is dismissing rumors that Chinese tourist numbers have plummeted by 94%. TAT Governor, Thapanee Kiatphaibool, assures that Thailand still ranks as the top destination for Chinese travelers. The reported decline has been attributed to Thailand's crackdown on call center scams. Thapanee pointed out that the disappearance of Chinese actor Wang Xing near the Thai border hasn't affected tourism numbers, as no official reports back up the claim. Despite a noticeable dip in visitors as the anti-scam efforts ramped up in February, Chinese tourists remain the largest group of foreign visitors to Thailand. Thapanee is confident that the crackdown will ultimately attract more quality tourists and boost confidence among international travelers and Thai locals alike. January saw a strong influx of Chinese tourists, and while numbers fell with the scam crackdown, predictions signal a quick bounce back. Experts expect tourism to return to vibrant levels soon, spurred by increased trust in safety and service quality, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-26

Free Internet Set to Empower Over 1 Million Disabled Thais Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post In a landmark effort to close the digital gap, a new initiative is set to provide free Internet access to over 1.1 million disabled individuals across Thailand. The programme, forged from an agreement between the Social Development and Human Security Ministry, the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC), and Bangkok Tellink, aims to empower disabled people by giving them access to online learning and self-improvement resources. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352957-free-internet-set-to-empower-over-1-million-disabled-thais/

Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post In a landmark effort to close the digital gap, a new initiative is set to provide free Internet access to over 1.1 million disabled individuals across Thailand. The programme, forged from an agreement between the Social Development and Human Security Ministry, the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC), and Bangkok Tellink, aims to empower disabled people by giving them access to online learning and self-improvement resources. Minister Varawut Silpa-archa announced that from February 1 to July 31, the program will offer unlimited free Internet at a minimum speed of 20 Mbps. This will benefit those who hold disabled cards issued by the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DoEPD) and state welfare cards. “This programme is designed to give the disabled community the opportunity to gain knowledge from online learning and improve themselves,” Minister Varawut stated, emphasizing the government's dedication to equal opportunities. The initiative covers individuals with diverse disabilities, including hearing or visual impairments, physical disabilities, mental disorders, intellectual disabilities, learning disabilities, and autism. Eligible participants can use their current mobile numbers or request a new internet SIM card. The DoEPD will provide a database of eligible users, while the NBTC will handle the monthly Internet fee of 107 baht per person. Pre-registration is necessary, and the free Internet cannot be transferred to ensure benefits reach the intended recipients. This Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) marks a significant step toward digital inclusivity, enabling disabled individuals to engage in education, work, and social activities. By enhancing their quality of life, the government aims to mitigate inequality. As the program rolls out nationwide, the ministry encourages all eligible individuals to register and tap into this opportunity to connect globally. This bold step is poised to transform lives, underscoring that Internet access is not merely a luxury, but a necessity for all, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-26

Foreign Takeover? Thailand's Hotels Face Investment Surge Picture courtesy of vvillasphuket Thailand’s booming tourism industry is raising alarm bells among local insiders as foreign investors increasingly purchase hotels, villas, and luxury condos in hotspots like Phuket and Bangkok. The trend, highlighted by Thai Hotels Association (THA) President Thienprasit Chaiyapatranun, sees Russian property owners allegedly flouting regulations by renting properties on a daily basis. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352956-foreign-takeover-thailands-hotels-face-investment-surge/

Picture courtesy of vvillasphuket Thailand’s booming tourism industry is raising alarm bells among local insiders as foreign investors increasingly purchase hotels, villas, and luxury condos in hotspots like Phuket and Bangkok. The trend, highlighted by Thai Hotels Association (THA) President Thienprasit Chaiyapatranun, sees Russian property owners allegedly flouting regulations by renting properties on a daily basis. In Bangkok, both local and international investors are buying entire floors of condominiums to profit from short-term rentals. Meanwhile, Chinese investors are dominating the luxury housing sector, offering services designed to make tourists feel at home. The THA is urging the government to tighten control over foreign ownership and consider reducing visa durations to prevent potential economic disparities. Sisdivachr Cheewarattanaporn of the Thai Travel Agents Association supports these moves, also calling for enhanced security checks on tourists to uphold Thai laws. Last year, Thai hoteliers raised alarms about foreign firms using Thai nominees, which they fear could harm the tourism industry’s reputation. The concern is growing ahead of the peak season, with about half of Thai hotels wary of illegal foreign investments, especially those linked to Chinese entrepreneurs, according to the October business sentiment index. Thailand currently welcomes about 10,000 Chinese tourists daily and aims to reach 6.7 million by 2025. As the country navigates this boom, industry experts question if increased vigilance can successfully parry economic risks. Only time will tell, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-26

Mystery Key Boxes Expose Bangkok's Illegal Rentals Photo: Thai PBS World This week, curious images of mysterious key boxes scattered across downtown Bangkok captured the attention of online communities in Thailand. The viral photos featured inconspicuous wooden boxes, measuring 60cm x 60cm, strategically placed at locations like Sukhumvit Soi 42, sparking widespread speculation. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352955-mystery-key-boxes-expose-bangkoks-illegal-rentals/

Photo: Thai PBS World This week, curious images of mysterious key boxes scattered across downtown Bangkok captured the attention of online communities in Thailand. The viral photos featured inconspicuous wooden boxes, measuring 60cm x 60cm, strategically placed at locations like Sukhumvit Soi 42, sparking widespread speculation. Inside these boxes were multiple combination lockboxes. One box, located in front of a residential building just 40 meters away, contained 23 such lockboxes, some of which had been opened. Thai citizens were intrigued, sharing theories about their purpose. The intrigue unraveled when vigilant netizens revealed that these lockboxes belonged to individuals illegally renting out condominium units nearby. With condominium regulations strictly prohibiting short-term rentals, landlords circumvent receptionist protocols by installing these key boxes. Owners share the location and combination codes with tenants so they can access their room keys without detection. Despite the potential fines of up to 20,000 baht plus 10,000 baht each day violations continue, many landlords risk it to sidestep the law. The widespread nature of the key boxes indicates that this evasion tactic is far from isolated. Since going viral, attention on the matter has led to some of the key boxes disappearing from the streets. Nonetheless, it's a clear sign of the lengths some will go to maintain their covert rental operations in a city grappling with rental regulation issues, reported Thai PBS World. -- 2025-02-26

Fed-Up Bangkok Locals Demand Action on Rowdy Foreign Renters Photo courtesy of Drama-addict Facebook Residents of a Bangkok condo are fed up with noisy tourists disrupting their once tranquil home. Foreign renters have made loud parties, the smell of cannabis, and pool rule-breaking common, sparking frustration among long-term residents. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352953-fed-up-bangkok-locals-demand-action-on-rowdy-foreign-renters/

Photo courtesy of Drama-addict Facebook Residents of a Bangkok condo are fed up with noisy tourists disrupting their once tranquil home. Foreign renters have made loud parties, the smell of cannabis, and pool rule-breaking common, sparking frustration among long-term residents. The problem was highlighted on popular Facebook page Drama-addict, which featured a resident's plea. "My condo faces daily rental issues too," the post lamented, noting how tourists disrespect community rules. A key concern is the round-the-clock pool partying, with cannabis openly smoked, making others uncomfortable. Security has been undermined by key cards hidden in a cabinet near the garage, enabling easy access for short-term renters. Despite a face scanner installed last year, key cards are still in use. "This undermines security," a resident said, highlighting the condo's reluctance to abandon key cards for convenience. Frustrated residents have sought help from police and local offices, but have seen no action. "We've complained for a year, but nothing's changed," one resident said, annoyed by bureaucracy. Residents are urging the government to enforce stricter regulations against short-term rentals. Until then, the plight with disruptive tourists continues, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-26

From Trust to Trouble: Boom's Battle Against Thieving Nanny Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Thai actress Panadda Wongphudee, known as "Boom," has finally taken legal action against her former nanny, Wandee Saithong, who admitted to stealing from her. Yesterday, February 24, Boom filed a formal complaint at Bueng Kum Police Station, determined to stop Wandee’s deceitful antics. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352861-from-trust-to-trouble-booms-battle-against-thieving-nanny/

Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Thai actress Panadda Wongphudee, known as "Boom," has finally taken legal action against her former nanny, Wandee Saithong, who admitted to stealing from her. Yesterday, February 24, Boom filed a formal complaint at Bueng Kum Police Station, determined to stop Wandee’s deceitful antics. Boom initially dismissed Wandee for stealing, choosing not to press charges in the hope that she would reform. Unfortunately, this gesture of goodwill was futile. Wandee continued her dishonest activities, even impersonating Boom to further her schemes. Boom discovered the ongoing theft on January 28, in the Nawamin area of Bangkok, after storing 30,000 baht in cash in her bedroom. Despite confronting Wandee and receiving a confession, Boom initially decided against legal action. However, Wandee's persistence in deceit left Boom no choice but to act. Boom expressed her frustration on social media, sharing her visit to the police station with the caption: "Come to file a complaint." She emphasized her resolve to prevent Wandee from duping others, stating, "I gave her a chance to change but she didn’t. I can’t let her get away with it anymore.” The complaint has now moved into legal proceedings, with police preparing to issue a summons and arrest warrant for Wandee. The public has rallied behind Boom, praising her bravery in tackling dishonesty head-on, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-25

Temple Abandonment: Newborn Found, Parents Pleaded to Return Picture courtesy of brighttv A newborn baby boy, covered in mosquito bites, was discovered abandoned at the entrance of Wat Saman Rattanaram temple in Chachoengsao province early this morning. The temple’s abbot, Phra Ratchawachiraprachanart, is appealing to the parents to reclaim their child, urging them to act compassionately and not take out their problems on the innocent. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352858-temple-abandonment-newborn-found-parents-pleaded-to-return/

Picture courtesy of brighttv A newborn baby boy, covered in mosquito bites, was discovered abandoned at the entrance of Wat Saman Rattanaram temple in Chachoengsao province early this morning. The temple’s abbot, Phra Ratchawachiraprachanart, is appealing to the parents to reclaim their child, urging them to act compassionately and not take out their problems on the innocent. The heartbreaking scene was captured on surveillance cameras at 5:45 a.m. It showed a white pickup truck arriving and a woman wearing a yellow T-shirt and shorts gently placing the baby at the gate before driving away. The abbot, who also leads the Thammayut sect in the province, assured that the temple will care for the child temporarily while coordinating with authorities for further action. He expressed hope that the mother would reconsider her decision and return for her child, emphasizing the need for understanding and empathy in such situations, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-25

Police Crack Down on LINE-App Prostitution Ring in Hat Yai Photo courtesy of KhaoSod In a dramatic undercover operation, local police busted a Lao woman running an illicit prostitution ring via the LINE app, revealing a hidden world of illegal activity in the city. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352857-police-crack-down-on-line-app-prostitution-ring-in-hat-yai/

Photo courtesy of KhaoSod In a dramatic undercover operation, local police busted a Lao woman running an illicit prostitution ring via the LINE app, revealing a hidden world of illegal activity in the city. The operation was spearheaded by Police Colonel Nattapong Koet-iem, Superintendent of the 6th Police Station, and targeted a scheme based out of a resort on Rat Uthit Road. It began when officers discovered suspicious activity on social media platform X (formerly Twitter). Using the hashtag #AcceptingWorkInHatYai, a user was anonymously advertising sexual services, prompting further investigation. Pol. Lt. Col. Natthaphon Chuaynukul and a team from the Anti-Human Trafficking Division conducted a sting operation. An undercover officer contacted the LINE ID muay_87 and negotiated a meeting for sexual services at a rate of 1,500 baht. At the designated meeting point, a room in a Hat Yai resort, police apprehended 31-year-old Khith (surname withheld), a Lao national, with evidence including two condoms and a marked banknote. Khith confessed to the charges and admitted to overstaying her visa, which expired on April 7, 2020. She is currently in custody at the Crime Suppression Operations Center at Hat Yai Police Station, facing legal proceedings. "This operation demonstrates our commitment to crack down on illegal prostitution and human trafficking in Hat Yai," stated Pol. Col. Nattapong. The case has sparked discussions about the use of social media platforms for illegal activities and challenges in digital law enforcement. Police are now extending their investigation to identify others involved in the network, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-25