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Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail By Puntid Tantivangphaisal A historic moment unfolded in Chiang Rai as Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra presented Thai citizenship cards to 72 individuals from ethnic minority groups, marking a monumental step towards addressing statelessness in the country. The ceremony, held at the GMS International Convention and Exhibition Centre on Sunday, December 1, highlighted Thailand’s commitment to inclusivity and human rights, with key officials and representatives from international organisations, including the UNHCR, UNICEF, and IOM, in attendance. The event kicked off with a cultural performance celebrating Chiang Rai’s ethnic diversity before the 38 year old prime minister delivered an address. One of the new citizens could not contain his happiness. “We have waited for this moment for so long. Today, we feel truly Thai, and we are grateful to the government for seeing our importance.” PM Paetongtarn acknowledged the struggles of those who had lived in Thailand for decades without formal recognition, emphasising that the new citizenship status would provide access to vital services like healthcare, education, and state welfare. A key highlight was the announcement of new policies to expedite the citizenship application process. Under the revised framework, the waiting period for nationality requests will be drastically reduced—from 270 days to just five days for most cases. Stateless individuals born in Thailand will also benefit from the shorter waiting time, ensuring faster integration into society. Since 1984, Thailand has been working to address statelessness, yet over 500,000 individuals are still awaiting citizenship. The 38 year old Thai premier expressed her determination to tackle this issue, thanking international partners for their ongoing support. With smiles, laughter, and optimism, the ceremony embodied Thailand’s commitment to building a more inclusive future for all its residents, reported Pattaya Mail. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-03

Songkhla flood relief scare debunked amid robbery claims By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of The Nation The chief of Songkhla’s Thepha district has swiftly denied shocking allegations that villagers from the Tha Muang district robbed a team of volunteers delivering flood relief on Sunday, December 1. The accusations, made in a now-deleted social media post, caused widespread panic but officials insisted it was a misunderstanding. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345282-songkhla-flood-relief-scare-debunked-amid-robbery-claims/

Photo courtesy of The Nation By Puntid Tantivangphaisal The chief of Songkhla’s Thepha district has swiftly denied shocking allegations that villagers from the Tha Muang district robbed a team of volunteers delivering flood relief on Sunday, December 1. The accusations, made in a now-deleted social media post, caused widespread panic but officials insisted it was a misunderstanding. Traisulee Taisaranakul, the spokesperson for the Interior Ministry, revealed today that the claims of a group of 20 men attacking the rescue team were incorrect. Quoting district chief Ekkachai Kaewrattana, she clarified that the villagers simply asked for relief items and had not stolen anything. Ekkachai further explained that the loud manner in which southerners speak might have alarmed the volunteers, who misinterpreted the situation as an attempt to rob them. “The volunteers were startled. The villagers were only asking for necessities.” The incident began when a Songkhla social media influencer posted a call for help for the flood victims, prompting a swift response from Nakhon Si Thammarat’s Pracha Ruamjai Foundation. A team of volunteers arrived with essential supplies but once on-site some villagers approached the group hoping for aid. Ekkachai confirmed that the district chief spoke directly with the social media poster and the inflammatory post was removed. Channel 7 reported yesterday that the team, which had travelled in seven trucks, had to switch to boats to cross a submerged railway track. They claimed that 20 men surrounded them and demanded the supplies. As tensions escalated, more villagers reportedly helped themselves to the items, with some warning the team about the area’s dangers after dark. The district chief is now working with the influencer and the foundation to clarify the situation, ensuring the public receives the true account of events, reported The Nation. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-03

Phuket's Coral Revival: 3D-Printed Islands Aim to Save Reefs File photo for reference only In an innovative attempt to restore the coral reefs near Koh Racha Yai, south of Phuket, the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources (DMCR) has launched its annual reef restoration campaign. Featuring 3D-printed coral larvae islands, this initiative seeks to rejuvenate the damaged seabed, unveiled on Saturday, November 30. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345281-phukets-coral-revival-3d-printed-islands-aim-to-save-reefs/

File photo for reference only In an innovative attempt to restore the coral reefs near Koh Racha Yai, south of Phuket, the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources (DMCR) has launched its annual reef restoration campaign. Featuring 3D-printed coral larvae islands, this initiative seeks to rejuvenate the damaged seabed, unveiled on Saturday, November 30. The event was attended by key figures including DMCR Director-General Pinsak Suraswadi, and sustainability leaders from the Siam Cement Group (SCG) and Thai Union Group PCL. Pinsak emphasized the urgent need for coral restoration, citing its importance for marine biodiversity and the local diving tourism industry, which plays a crucial role in the economy. The Rak Talay project addresses the challenges posed by natural disasters, coral bleaching, and human activities, such as careless anchoring. It employs 3D printing technology to replicate natural coral structures, providing ideal growing conditions for young coral. Thai Union Group CEO Thiraphong Chansiri and Chana Phumi from SCG commended this innovative, eco-friendly approach. Adam Brennan, Thai Union’s Group Director of Sustainable Development, highlighted the project's role in strengthening biodiversity and encouraging collaboration between public and private sectors. The project builds on efforts initiated in 2020 when SCG first introduced the technology to Koh Racha Yai with eco-friendly materials matching the marine environment. By speeding up coral recovery and enhancing the underwater ecosystem, these efforts aim to sustain Thailand's marine tourism. The growing support for the DMCR’s 3D-printed coral initiative shows promising progress in ocean conservation. -- 2024-12-03

Thai PM Faces Criticism Over Inadequate Response to South Thailand Floods File photo for reference only Devastating floods in southern Thailand have put significant pressure on Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra's government, leading to widespread criticism over her crisis management skills. The heavy flooding has caused havoc in the region, leading many to question the prime minister's ability to handle national emergencies effectively. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345280-thai-pm-faces-criticism-over-inadequate-response-to-south-thailand-floods/

File photo for reference only Devastating floods in southern Thailand have put significant pressure on Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra's government, leading to widespread criticism over her crisis management skills. The heavy flooding has caused havoc in the region, leading many to question the prime minister's ability to handle national emergencies effectively. Initially struggling to establish her leadership in the north, the prime minister eventually set up the Flood, Storm, and Landslide Disaster Relief Operations Centre, following demands from various civil groups. However, her handling of the southern crisis has been seen as falling short of expectations. Adding to the controversy was a comment from the prime minister that quickly went viral. Instead of offering comfort to those affected, she stated, "Regarding claims of neglecting the south, my husband is from the south, and his family is southern. If I neglected or didn’t love the south, I couldn’t have married a southerner, could I?" This remark was widely viewed as insensitive and showed a lack of understanding of the seriousness of the situation, sparking further uproar among political rivals. Pukkamon Nunarnan, an opposition MP, commented, "Thai people do recognize the warmth and charm of the prime minister’s family, but personal matters should stay private. The public deserves professional leadership." Former MP Amarat Chokepamitkul accused the prime minister of a self-centered approach to the crisis. Adding to the scrutiny, former senator Wanchai Sornsiri advised the 38-year-old leader to rethink her public demeanor, including her choice of attire and her family’s involvement in government affairs. "If improvements aren’t made, it could soon have negative consequences," Sornsiri warned. -- 2024-12-03

Thai Authorities Bust Massive Illegal Cable Network Fueling Scam Operations File photo for reference only Thai authorities have dismantled a large illegal cable network used to support scam call centers operating across the Thai-Myanmar border. The network, stretching nearly three kilometers, is the largest of its kind ever uncovered in Thailand. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345279-thai-authorities-bust-massive-illegal-cable-network-fueling-scam-operations/

File photo for reference only Thai authorities have dismantled a large illegal cable network used to support scam call centers operating across the Thai-Myanmar border. The network, stretching nearly three kilometers, is the largest of its kind ever uncovered in Thailand. In a coordinated effort, the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) and the Royal Thai Police conducted a raid near the Mae Sot Friendship Bridge. They discovered 16 extensive cables unlawfully crossing the border, linked to towers that provided internet and telecom services to a wide area on the Myanmar side for these illegal operations. An investigation has been launched to find those responsible for establishing and maintaining this illegal network. The offenders could face up to five years in prison and fines reaching 10 million baht under the Telecommunications Business Act. -- 2024-12-03

Brief encounter: Phuket woman calls out underwear pervert - video By Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ Phuket Times ภูเก็ตไทม์ A Thai woman in Phuket is pleading with a pervert to stop his degenerate behaviour after he repeatedly stole her underwear for masturbation purposes before later returning them. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345277-brief-encounter-phuket-woman-calls-out-underwear-pervert-video/

Photo via Facebook/ Phuket Times ภูเก็ตไทม์ By Petch Petpailin A Thai woman in Phuket is pleading with a pervert to stop his degenerate behaviour after he repeatedly stole her underwear for masturbation purposes before later returning them. The victim, whose name was not disclosed, shared her story with the Phuket Times, today, December 3, in the hope that the man would be shamed into stopping his actions. The page subsequently shared the story with the public, along with a video of the incident. “Woman cries for help! She’s running out of underwear. Her underwear were stolen for masturbation. Sometimes, the thief returned them to her clothes rack. The incident took place at a rented room in the Sam Kong neighbourhood of Phuket.” In the video, shared in the comment section, a Thai man wearing black shorts can be seen pulling underwear from a clothes rack and immediately putting it inside his shorts. He then walked away but later returned the used underwear to the rack. Some commenters remarked on the oddity of the thief daring to return the stolen underwear. Others mocked the pervert, joking that he was at least a “polite” thief for returning the stolen items. However, some netizens criticised the victim, blaming her for drying her underwear and bras outside her room. Others suggested unconventional deterrents, such as applying pepper or monkey tamarind, known for causing severe itching, to her underwear. The Phuket Times did not clarify how the matter was resolved. It remains unclear whether the woman took any legal action against the suspect. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-03

Nonthaburi shop owners seek driver after 50,000 baht accident By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Two shop owners are seeking the whereabouts of a driver who caused extensive damage to their businesses in a late-night car crash, promising to compensate before becoming unreachable after one day of contact. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345276-nonthaburi-shop-owners-seek-driver-after-50000-baht-accident/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod By Bright Choomanee Two shop owners are seeking the whereabouts of a driver who caused extensive damage to their businesses in a late-night car crash, promising to compensate before becoming unreachable after one day of contact. The incident occurred at approximately 3.40am on December 1, when a Toyota Wish sedan, driven by a 38 year old man identified as Charnwut (surname withheld), lost control and crashed into two adjacent shops on Bang Phai-Nong Phrao Ngai Road in Bang Rak Phatthana, Bang Bua Thong district. The collision caused severe damage to the shopfront walls and equipment at Tawee Heng Tools and Sombat Electricals, with total damages estimated at 50,000 baht (US$1,455). The owners, Nakorn and Phumipat (both 43 years old) have reported the incident to Bang Bua Thong Police Station. CCTV footage from the scene shows the sedan speeding before veering into the shops, toppling shelves and leaving tools scattered and damaged. Phumipat recounted that he was asleep when the crash occurred and woke to a loud noise. “I came outside to find my front door destroyed and tools critical to my work severely damaged. The driver appeared dazed but assured us he would take full responsibility before leaving the scene.” KhaoSod reported that the shop owners managed to contact Charnwut the day following the crash, during which he reiterated his commitment to covering the damages. However, he has since become unreachable, prompting the owners to appeal for media assistance, said Phumipat, who estimated the damage to his shop alone at over 20,000 baht (US$582). “My front door remains unusable, and I’m concerned about potential theft. Our livelihoods depend on these tools, and we urgently need him to honour his promise.” The owners hope that Charnwut will come forward to resolve the issue and are asking anyone with knowledge of his whereabouts to assist. They also urge the police to expedite their investigation and ensure accountability. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-03

House dissolution: Phumtham shoots down charter row rumours By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post A fiery political debate over Thailand’s charter referendum sparked speculation about a potential House dissolution but Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai isn’t buying it. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345275-house-dissolution-phumtham-shoots-down-charter-row-rumours/

Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post By Puntid Tantivangphaisal A fiery political debate over Thailand’s charter referendum sparked speculation about a potential House dissolution but Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai isn’t buying it. Brushing off claims from Pheu Thai list-MP Cherdchai Tantisirin, Phumtham insisted that tensions between the ruling Pheu Thai Party and coalition partner Bhumjaithai Party wouldn’t boil over. “Dr Cherdchai is entitled to his opinion.” Phumtham stressed that coalition policies aren’t dictated by individual views. The controversy stems from disagreements over the voting threshold for passing a referendum on amending the constitution. The House favours a simple majority, while the Senate demands a double majority: over 50% voter turnout and majority approval from participants. A joint MP-Senate committee recently sided with the Senate’s stricter requirements, backed by Bhumjaithai. Cherdchai warned that failing to resolve the dispute could force a House dissolution,reported Bangkok Post. However, Phumtham dismissed the possibility, stating that only Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra holds the authority to dissolve the House, and she has shown no inclination to do so. “Disagreements will be worked out in Parliament.” Meanwhile, People’s Party (PP) leader Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut steered his opposition bloc clear of the coalition squabble. The PP supports two rounds of referendums to amend the constitution, citing a 2021 Constitutional Court ruling, while the government argues for three, said Natthaphong. “The party is always ready for elections if and when the House is dissolved.” Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-03

Government to Reassess Senior Digital Wallet Plan: January Benefits Still Expected File photo for reference only The cabinet has tasked the Finance Ministry with reevaluating the second phase of the digital wallet initiative. This scheme aims to provide a 10,000 baht cash benefit to roughly four million individuals over the age of 60 by January. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345269-government-to-reassess-senior-digital-wallet-plan-january-benefits-still-expected/

File photo for reference only The cabinet has tasked the Finance Ministry with reevaluating the second phase of the digital wallet initiative. This scheme aims to provide a 10,000 baht cash benefit to roughly four million individuals over the age of 60 by January. Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat revealed that Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra sought a more detailed legal review of the program. The updated findings will be resubmitted for the cabinet's consideration. Julapun reassured that, despite the review, the distribution of cash benefits is still planned for January. -- 2024-12-03

District Chief Orders Surprise Drug Tests on Officials: One Positive Result Found Photo: The Thaiger In a bold effort to fight local drug problems, Ban Mai Chaiphot's district chief, Seksan Janwongsa, surprised everyone by ordering drug tests for officials during a meeting on December 2. This unexpected move led to one local official testing positive for drugs, with five more still awaiting testing. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345268-district-chief-orders-surprise-drug-tests-on-officials-one-positive-result-found/

Photo: The Thaiger In a bold effort to fight local drug problems, Ban Mai Chaiphot's district chief, Seksan Janwongsa, surprised everyone by ordering drug tests for officials during a meeting on December 2. This unexpected move led to one local official testing positive for drugs, with five more still awaiting testing. The tests happened during a meeting at the Ban Mai Chaiphot district hall, which included village leaders, health officers, and police staff. In the middle of discussions, Seksan asked the district officer and security volunteers to close off the room and randomly test the officials for drug use. In total, 172 officials, including village chiefs and police officers, underwent drug screening. Health officers from the local public health department and Ban Mai Chaiphot Hospital supervised the process, with local security volunteers assisting at restroom stations to ensure orderly testing. Initial results showed one positive drug test, while five individuals still need to be tested. These results have been sent to Ban Mai Chaiphot Hospital for further verification. The district will take disciplinary steps against anyone confirmed to be using drugs and will refer them to rehabilitation programs. District Chief Seksan stated that these surprise tests are part of an ongoing campaign called "Unified Strength to Solve Drug Problems." This plan aims to tackle drug issues by ensuring government officials are drug-free, restoring trust in public service. He noted that the initiative aligns with anti-drug policies at both the government and Ministry of Interior levels. Seksan encouraged the public to report any drug-related incidents and promised swift action from the administration. This surprise testing underscores the district's dedication to addressing the drug problem and ensuring a clean government administration. -- 2024-12-03

AirAsia Faces Backlash After Booking Payment Glitch Sparks Refund Outcry File photo for reference only AirAsia is under fire after a Facebook post alleged a major booking scam involving the airline. The post, shared on the page อีซ้อขยี้ข่าว : อีซ้อ, accused AirAsia of tricking customers with ticket promotions, only to claim unsuccessful bookings and withhold refunds from hundreds of thousands of people. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345267-airasia-faces-backlash-after-booking-payment-glitch-sparks-refund-outcry/

File photo for reference only AirAsia is under fire after a Facebook post alleged a major booking scam involving the airline. The post, shared on the page อีซ้อขยี้ข่าว : อีซ้อ, accused AirAsia of tricking customers with ticket promotions, only to claim unsuccessful bookings and withhold refunds from hundreds of thousands of people. Thailand's Office of the Consumer Protection Board (OCPB) has started investigating the claims. AirAsia clarified that the issue stems from its travel booking platform app, AirAsia MOVE, not the airline directly. A malfunction in the app's Direct Debit payment method has caused customers' money to be deducted without confirming bookings. AirAsia MOVE CEO Nadia Omar issued a statement today, December 3, ensuring affected customers that they are prioritizing refunds. She apologized for the inconvenience and mentioned that they have temporarily disabled the Direct Debit payment method since November 26 to avoid further issues. Thai customers will receive an email with refund instructions by December 4, and refunds will be processed within seven working days upon submission of accurate bank details. Despite promises of system improvements, many travelers remain upset with AirAsia for the prolonged delays and perceived lack of transparency. Even as the airline distances itself from direct responsibility, customer trust seems to be shaken. If you're affected, keep an eye on your inbox for an email from [email protected] to ensure you secure your refund promptly. -- 2024-12-03

Thailand Ranks 9th in Global Instant Noodle Consumption, with 4 Billion Packs a Year File photo for reference only The World Instant Noodles Association (WINA) has announced that Thailand is the ninth largest consumer of instant noodles in the world. Released on December 2, the list ranks the top 15 countries based on their annual instant noodle consumption. In Thailand, people consume around 4 billion packets each year. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345264-thailand-ranks-9th-in-global-instant-noodle-consumption-with-4-billion-packs-a-year/

7-Eleven Teams with British Embassy to Boost Thailand Road Safety Photo: The Pattaya News In a significant move to enhance road safety for tourists in Thailand, CP All Public Company Limited, the parent company of 7-Eleven in Thailand, has partnered with the Tourist Police Bureau and the British Embassy. Announced by CEO Mr. Yuthasak Poomsurakul on 2nd December 2024, this initiative targets common risks faced by international tourists, focusing on the importance of wearing helmets and avoiding driving under the influence. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345262-7-eleven-teams-with-british-embassy-to-boost-thailand-road-safety/

File photo for reference only The World Instant Noodles Association (WINA) has announced that Thailand is the ninth largest consumer of instant noodles in the world. Released on December 2, the list ranks the top 15 countries based on their annual instant noodle consumption. In Thailand, people consume around 4 billion packets each year. China, including Hong Kong, tops the chart with a whopping 42.2 billion packs consumed annually. Following China, Indonesia and India come in second and third, with 14.5 billion and 8.7 billion packs respectively. Here's a snapshot of the top consumers: 1. China and Hong Kong: 42.2 billion packs/year 2. Indonesia: 14.5 billion packs/year 3. India: 8.7 billion packs/year 4. Vietnam: 8.1 billion packs/year 5. Japan: 5.8 billion packs/year 6. United States: 5.1 billion packs/year 7. Philippines: 4.4 billion packs/year 8. South Korea: 4 billion packs/year 9. Thailand: 4 billion packs/year 10. Nigeria: 3 billion packs/year 11. Brazil: 2.55 billion packs/year 12. Russia: 2.2 billion packs/year 13. Malaysia: 1.64 billion packs/year 14. Nepal: 1.57 billion packs/year 15. Mexico: 1.55 billion packs/year Earlier in March, research by the Bank of Ayudhya placed Thailand third in terms of instant noodle consumption per capita. Interestingly, Nepal shared this third spot with Thailand. -- 2024-12-03

Photo: The Pattaya News In a significant move to enhance road safety for tourists in Thailand, CP All Public Company Limited, the parent company of 7-Eleven in Thailand, has partnered with the Tourist Police Bureau and the British Embassy. Announced by CEO Mr. Yuthasak Poomsurakul on 2nd December 2024, this initiative targets common risks faced by international tourists, focusing on the importance of wearing helmets and avoiding driving under the influence. 7-Eleven stores will serve as key information centres, providing useful advice on safe driving practices. This includes adhering to traffic laws, the necessity of wearing helmets, and obtaining accident insurance. A total of 155 branches across 18 provinces will participate, featuring safety messages on posters and point-of-sale screens. Tourist Police Chief Pol. Lt. Gen. Saksira Phuak-am emphasized the importance of this initiative, particularly during peak travel seasons when road accidents spike due to unfamiliarity with local traffic laws. The police are also intensifying checks on vehicle rental businesses and public transport drivers to ensure compliance with safety standards. From the British Embassy's perspective, Consul Joanne Finnamore-Crorkin reiterated that safeguarding UK visitors is crucial, noting that over 870,000 British tourists visited Thailand in 2023. The initiative is expected to significantly reduce accidents and boost tourist confidence in Thai road safety, supporting the ongoing recovery of the tourism industry. This collaboration underscores a united effort among Thai authorities, the private sector, and international partners like the British Embassy to improve safety measures, reinforcing Thailand’s status as a premier tourist destination, reported The Pattaya News. -- 2024-12-03