snoop1130

Pattaya Faces Mixed Reactions Amid Decline in Chinese Tourists Pattaya sign on Laem Bali Hai Pier | Photo via Chadathip BarBeer Pattaya, a bustling resort city in Thailand, is witnessing a notable decline in Chinese tourists—a development that's causing a stir among local business owners and long-term residents. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) recently reported a dip in daily Chinese arrivals to about 5,000, a significant drop from the pre-pandemic figures of 15,000 to 20,000. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359084-pattaya-faces-mixed-reactions-amid-decline-in-chinese-tourists/

Pattaya sign on Laem Bali Hai Pier | Photo via Chadathip BarBeer Pattaya, a bustling resort city in Thailand, is witnessing a notable decline in Chinese tourists—a development that's causing a stir among local business owners and long-term residents. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) recently reported a dip in daily Chinese arrivals to about 5,000, a significant drop from the pre-pandemic figures of 15,000 to 20,000. The shift in visitor demographics stems from several interconnected factors. Rising costs in Thailand, attractive travel packages from other Southeast Asian countries, and ongoing trade disagreements between Thailand and China have collectively contributed to this downturn. A particular point of contention has been Thailand's refusal to reduce tariffs, a decision that did not sit well with Beijing. The drop in Chinese tourists presents a double-edged sword for Pattaya. While businesses catering to mass tourism, such as large hotels, shopping centres, and beachside vendors, feel the pinch, European tourists and permanent residents appear to be embracing the quieter atmosphere. An unnamed European resident expressed contentment, noting, "The concerns mentioned are all true, but everyone knows after Songkran starts the low season, and numerous are happy that the massive levels of Chinese are going elsewhere." The absence of large Chinese tour groups, once a staple in Pattaya’s vibrant scene, has paved the way for a more laid-back environment. European tourists relish the less crowded beaches and enjoy the slower, less commercialised pace of life. Smaller businesses targeting independent travellers report receiving steadier business from Western visitors looking for unique travel experiences. As the city transitions into its traditional low season post-Songkran, tourism operators are keeping a close eye on these trends. With the realisation that relying too heavily on one market could be precarious, there is growing optimism that a more diversified tourist base might offer Pattaya a healthier tourist economy in the long run. Many are waiting to see if this current trend persists and whether Pattaya can continue attracting a varied array of visitors as it strives for a balanced tourism industry. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-04-28

Foreign Instagrammer Sparks Outrage by Illegally Scaling Bangkok's Ghost Tower Photo via Instagram/ @ryan_rrobertson In recent events, an Instagram user known as @ryan_rrobertson has stirred quite the commotion after sharing footage of himself and a friend climbing the infamous Sathorn Unique Tower—often referred to as Bangkok’s ghost tower. The duo's trespass into the abandoned skyscraper in Bangkok’s Sathorn neighbourhood has sparked outrage among both Thai and international audiences online. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359083-foreign-instagrammer-sparks-outrage-by-illegally-scaling-bangkoks-ghost-tower/

Photo via Instagram/ @ryan_rrobertson In recent events, an Instagram user known as @ryan_rrobertson has stirred quite the commotion after sharing footage of himself and a friend climbing the infamous Sathorn Unique Tower—often referred to as Bangkok’s ghost tower. The duo's trespass into the abandoned skyscraper in Bangkok’s Sathorn neighbourhood has sparked outrage among both Thai and international audiences online. The Sathorn Unique Tower, an unfinished high-rise, is renowned not just for its breathtaking views of the Chao Phraya River and the city skyline, but also its eerie history, compounded by the grim discovery of a deceased Swedish man in 2014. Its haunting reputation hasn’t deterred thrill-seekers like Robertson, who claimed, "POV: You’re the first person to climb Bangkok’s Ghost Tower in 5+ years..." Using a metal-cutting tool to break through the locked entrance, Robertson and his friend scaled the deserted structure to capture dramatic views from the roof, which they shared on social media. The video accumulated nearly 1,000 likes, although the majority of comments sharply rebuked their actions for breaking laws and ignoring safety protocols. Critics slammed their assertion of being the first climbers in five years, with many users asserting their own recent visits or sharing other creators’ content as evidence. Despite the uproar, official attention from Thai authorities or the building's owner, Rangsan Torsuwan, remains absent. The ghost tower incident comes shortly after renewed interest in the property, following an erroneous claim of its sale by a supposed real estate agent. Rangsan’s son quickly refuted the claim, citing ongoing legal battles that prevent any legitimate transaction. As the story unfolds, Robertson’s unauthorised exploration raises familiar issues about legal boundaries and ethical responsibility in urban adventuring. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-04-28

File photo for reference only Police in Hà Nội have successfully dismantled a counterfeit operation selling fake health supplements targeted at children, following a complex investigation revealing fraudulent activities involving forged certificates and deceptive advertising. The criminal network was found to be distributing two main products, BABY SHARK and Medi Kid Calcium K2, falsely promoted as imported from France, Germany, and the US. These products were in fact manufactured locally by Herbitech Technology Co., Ltd., situated in Phù Lỗ Commune, Sóc Sơn District. The ringleader, Phạm Vũ Khiêm, who serves as the director of Herbitech Technology Company, has been identified as orchestrating the production and distribution of these counterfeit goods. The investigation uncovered that the company had produced and processed over 200 items, collectively valued in the hundreds of billions of đồng, without adhering to quality control standards. The products were marketed under the guise of international importation, yet their production costs and quality fell significantly short of these claims. Khiêm confessed to altering product certification results, changing failed tests to passing ones to allow these sub-standard items to enter the market. Major Nguyễn Văn Thành detailed the modus operandi: mass-producing supplements based on customer demands and subsequently sending samples for testing at authorized laboratories. In instances where results failed to meet the required standards, the suspects either persuaded labs to adjust the results or outright falsified entire test certificates to validate their products. The bust highlights the critical role of vigilant law enforcement in safeguarding public health, especially for vulnerable populations such as children, against deceptive and potentially harmful products. Authorities continue to emphasize the importance of proper regulatory compliance and consumer awareness in combating such fraudulence in the health supplement industry. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Veitnam News 2025-04-25

Photo: VN Express A man who masqueraded as a wealthy shopper to pilfer luxury items worth VND3 billion (approximately US$38,420) from a Ho Chi Minh City shopping mall has been sentenced to 10 years in prison. The court in HCMC found 33-year-old Phan Van Chien guilty of theft on Thursday. The indictment detailed how Chien, leveraging his opulent appearance, committed multiple thefts yet received some leniency due to his full confession, restitution of the stolen items, and acknowledgment of his family's historical contributions to the revolution. During the trial, Chien admitted to the allegations, explaining that despite being born into affluence and accustomed to a life of luxury, financial hardships at the start of 2024 drove him to commit thefts. To maintain his lifestyle, he resorted to stealing high-end goods, which he also sold for financial gain. Chien's criminal spree began on January 21, 2024, when he visited the Tiffany & Co. store on Dong Khoi Street, District 1. Posing as a discerning customer, he gained access to the VIP area, where he was shown several valuable jewels. While staff were momentarily distracted, he stealthily slipped three diamond-encrusted bracelets, valued at VND2.6 billion, into his bag. Feigning the need to take a phone call, he quickly exited the store. Undeterred, a few days later, Chien targeted the Hermes store within the same mall. Under the guise of interest in luxury wallets and purses, he requested to see multiple items. Taking advantage of the staff’s diverted attention, he covertly placed three wallets worth VND450 million into his bag. Using the same ruse of needing to take a call, he fled again. The District 1 Police, upon receiving reports of the thefts, reviewed security footage from the mall, accurately identifying Chien as the perpetrator. His subsequent arrest led to the recovery of the stolen goods. Chien's sentence reflects both the gravity of his crimes and his cooperative behavior during the investigation, illustrating the balance between justice and leniency in criminal proceedings. Adapted by ASEAN Now from VN Express 2025-04-25

File photo for reference only A delegation of 118 Chinese soldiers and military officials arrived in Ho Chi Minh City on Friday to participate in Vietnam's upcoming national parade, marking 50 years since the country's reunification. This group landed at Tan Son Nhat International Airport around 12:15 p.m., where they were welcomed by Vietnamese military representatives and civilians waving both countries' flags, indicating the amicable ties between the nations. Following their arrival, the Chinese delegation traveled by bus to Binh Duong Province at approximately 1 p.m. Here, they are set to rest and conduct joint training exercises in preparation for the main event. Their attendance, at the request of Vietnam’s Ministry of National Defense, symbolizes the strengthening diplomatic relationship between Vietnam and China, as well as a tribute to the international solidarity Vietnam received during its fight for independence. Delegations from Laos and Cambodia have also arrived in Vietnam for the parade. After completing initial training in Binh Duong, these troops are now engaged in rehearsals with Vietnamese forces in central Ho Chi Minh City. The national reunification parade, expected to involve over 13,000 participants, will commence at 6:30 a.m. on April 30. The main ceremony will be held in District 1, with the parade traversing from the intersection of Le Duan and Nguyen Binh Khiem streets, proceeding through several key avenues in the city center. This celebration serves as a significant symbol of regional solidarity and historical remembrance. Adapted by ASEAN Now from VN Express 2025-04-25

File photo for reference only President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has signed Executive Order (EO) 86, introducing the Digital Nomad Visa (DNV) to attract foreign nationals who wish to temporarily reside and work remotely in the Philippines. This move aims to invigorate the country's tourism sector and strengthen its economy by appealing to digital nomads. Effective immediately upon publication, EO 86 establishes the legal framework for issuing these visas, permitting the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) to grant DNVs to non-immigrant foreigners working remotely for clients or employers based outside the Philippines. Key provisions of the order specify that DNV holders may stay in the Philippines for up to one year, with the option to renew visas for the same duration. These visas include multiple entry privileges throughout their validity. To qualify for a DNV, applicants must be at least 18 years old, demonstrate remote work using digital technology, and show proof of sufficient income outside the Philippines. Additionally, applicants must possess an unblemished criminal record, valid health insurance for the DNV period, and come from a country that offers reciprocal DNVs to Filipinos and hosts a Philippine Foreign Service Post (FSP). For applicants from countries lacking a Philippine FSP, applications can be made in the nearest nation where an FSP is available. The DFA is tasked with maintaining a database of DNV holders, ensuring compliance with the Data Privacy Act of 2012, and working alongside the Department of Justice (DOJ), Department of Tourism (DOT), Bureau of Immigration (BI), and Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) to develop implementation measures. These agencies are directed to issue the necessary guidelines for the effective rollout of the DNV program within 30 days of the EO's effectivity. This initiative follows the World Economic Forum's (WEF) ranking of the Philippines as the 7th fastest-growing hub for remote work globally in 2023. By simplifying the process for digital nomads to live and work in the Philippines, the government anticipates a positive impact on both the tourism sector and overall economic growth. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Philippine News Agency 2025-04-25

File photo for reference only Beijing's foreign ministry has dismissed allegations of interference in the upcoming May elections in the Philippines, following claims made by a Philippine security executive. On April 24, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun reiterated China’s stance of non-interference, responding to accusations during a press conference. These allegations were presented by National Security Council (NSC) Spokesperson Jonathan Malaya at a Senate hearing, where he suggested that China was involved in "information operations" aimed at influencing the elections. According to Malaya, these operations involve narratives propagated through third-party proxies on social media, allegedly orchestrated by Beijing. During the same Senate hearing, Senate Majority Leader Francis Tolentino presented what he claimed to be evidence of a contract between the Chinese Embassy in Manila and Infinitus Marketing Solutions Inc., a Makati-based firm. Tolentino alleged that the contract involved deploying "keyboard warriors" to disseminate pro-China messages and disparage lawmakers who defend the Philippines' territorial claims in the West Philippine Sea. He identified Wu Chenqi of the Chinese Embassy and Myka Poynton of Infinitus as the individuals behind the agreement. As of now, the Chinese Embassy in Manila has not responded to these allegations. Meanwhile, Comelec Chairperson George Garcia acknowledged the existence of a coordinated social media campaign designed to undermine the credibility of the upcoming elections. In a separate investigation, Philstar.com highlighted suspicious bot activity targeting Comelec officials with corruption allegations, indicative of broader influence operations. Previously, Philstar.com reported on anonymous campaigns on Chinese social media platforms, warning of potential civil unrest in the Philippines following calls for Mindanao's secession by local politicians. These developments underscore the complex interplay of international relations and domestic politics, highlighting the challenges of ensuring electoral integrity in an era of sophisticated information warfare. Adapted by ASEAN Now from PhilStar 2025-04-25

File photo for reference only Senator Robinhood “Robin” Padilla has announced the successful enactment of the Philippine Islamic Burial Act, or Republic Act No. 12160, which signifies a significant step in preserving the cultural and religious traditions of Muslim Filipinos. This new law results from a meticulous legislative process intended to honor these traditions, allowing Muslim communities to follow Islamic customs in burying their loved ones. Padilla, who championed House Bill 8925—the foundation for the new law—through the Senate, highlighted the thorough procedures it underwent, including plenary discussions and the necessary hearings. "RA 12160 is very important to our Muslim brethren because they can now follow the traditions of Islam in burying their loved ones," Padilla remarked, emphasizing the extensive process that was essential for the measure's transformation into law. In January 2024, Padilla advocated for the bill on the Senate floor, urging support for what he described as a "simple but meaningful measure" for the Muslim community. He underscored that the legislation demonstrates society's respect for the deceased and their cultural customs. As Chairman of the Senate Committee on Cultural Communities and Muslim Affairs, Padilla led a hearing on the bill in May 2024. The Senate passed the House bill, and the House of Representatives subsequently approved the Senate's proposed amendments. Under the new legislation, Muslim burials must occur promptly, in accordance with Islamic customs. The law requires that the death be reported to the local health officer by the person who performed the burial rites or by the next of kin within 14 days following the burial, with or without an official certificate of death. The enactment of the Philippine Islamic Burial Act represents a significant recognition of the importance of preserving cultural and religious practices, facilitating respect and adherence to Muslim burial traditions across the nation. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Manila Bulletin 2025-04-25

Thai Woman Seeks Justice After Alleged Sexual Harassment by Sub-District Chief Photo via Channel 7 A married Thai woman, identified only as Tuk, has come forward with allegations of sexual harassment against a sub-district chief in Nakhon Ratchasima's Isaan province. Tuk claims that during a restaurant gathering on December 9, the intoxicated official made explicit and inappropriate advances towards her in front of others, yet remains in his position despite her complaint. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1358836-thai-woman-seeks-justice-after-alleged-sexual-harassment-by-sub-district-chief/

Photo via Channel 7 A married Thai woman, identified only as Tuk, has come forward with allegations of sexual harassment against a sub-district chief in Nakhon Ratchasima's Isaan province. Tuk claims that during a restaurant gathering on December 9, the intoxicated official made explicit and inappropriate advances towards her in front of others, yet remains in his position despite her complaint. The 37-year-old woman recounted that she was dining with the accused chief, two male community leaders, and two other women. According to Tuk, the chief consumed alcohol and harassed her throughout the meal. He allegedly kissed her on the cheek, requested to see her navel, made lewd comments about her attire, and explicitly propositioned her, all while others were present, leaving her deeply embarrassed. Following the incident, Tuk informed her husband and filed an official complaint on December 13, seeking the official's removal from office. Despite police questioning her and witnesses three times, no disciplinary action has been taken against the chief to date. Tuk disclosed that the same chief faced previous allegations of sexual assault in 2016, which were later dropped after the victim reportedly received 100,000 baht in compensation. Additionally, locals have provided Tuk with evidence of the chief's involvement in gambling activities. Stressing the need for accountability, Tuk urged for immediate disciplinary measures to prevent further incidents. The public has been assured by District Chief Somphong Mansarn, responsible for overseeing the investigation, that the process is ongoing and justice will be delivered within 120 days. This case highlights the ongoing struggle for accountability and justice in instances of sexual harassment, with Tuk taking a stand in hopes of preventing similar experiences for others in her community. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-04-25

DSI Uncovers Major Illegal Pork Import Operation Involving Thai and Chinese Investors Pictures courtesy of KhaoSod The Department of Special Investigation (DSI) has revealed a large-scale illegal pork import operation involving Thai and Chinese investors, as well as government officials. The announcement was made on April 24 at the DSI office in Chaeng Watthana Government Complex, revealing that a total of 161 containers of frozen pork had been illegally brought into Thailand. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1358835-dsi-uncovers-major-illegal-pork-import-operation-involving-thai-and-chinese-investors/

Pictures courtesy of KhaoSod The Department of Special Investigation (DSI) has revealed a large-scale illegal pork import operation involving Thai and Chinese investors, as well as government officials. The announcement was made on April 24 at the DSI office in Chaeng Watthana Government Complex, revealing that a total of 161 containers of frozen pork had been illegally brought into Thailand. Present at the announcement were Somboon Muangklam, advisor to the justice minister, along with DSI officials including Police Lieutenant Colonel Yutthana Praedam and Pol. Lt. Col. Anurak Rojanarinankit. The investigation spans activities from 2020 to 2022, targeting illegal importation of animal carcasses, specifically pork. Somboon noted that the investigation followed a complaint by the National Association of Swine Farmers to the Laem Chabang Police Station, which led to the involvement of the DSI in probing state officials and a shipping company suspected of facilitating the smuggling. The estimated tax value of the seized 161 containers is approximately 460 million baht, violating Thailand's Animal Epidemics Act and Customs Act. The case is categorized into three groups. The first group centres on goods identified at Laem Chabang customs, involving 10 private companies. The second group pertains to goods already distributed within the market. An examination of customs records from January 2021 to July 2023 uncovered 2,385 import declarations, totaling imports valued at 1.57 billion baht. Designated as special case 126/2023, this investigation involves international cooperation with seven countries, including Italy, Germany, and Brazil. There is a focus on tracing incorrectly declared goods, purportedly as salmon imports, despite confirmations from Italian and Brazilian authorities that no salmon was exported to Thailand. The third group involves document fraud and origin misrepresentation, involving government officials exporting animal carcasses under false declarations. This area of investigation, wrapped up as special case 127/2023, implicates 14 suspects, ranging from Thai and foreign investors to government officials. From these investigations, 12 special cases have been logged, with 11 concluded and referred to the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) as of September 9. Around 30 suspects, comprising Thai and Chinese investors and civil servants, have been identified, detailing their involvement. However, the identities of top-level and political officials remain under wraps as further investigation by the NACC continues. Special case 126/2024 is ongoing, with international collaboration to ensure the prosecution of those involved. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-04-25

Thai Vietjet Launches Summer Promotions with Flights from 799 Baht Pictures courtesy of Vietjet Thailand Facebook Thai Vietjet is heating up the summer with an enticing promotional offer, featuring domestic flight fares starting at just 799 baht, inclusive of taxes and fees. Whether you're planning a beach holiday in Phuket, an urban retreat in Chiang Mai, or a cultural visit to Hat Yai, there's a deal waiting for you. International travel isn’t left behind, with fares beginning at 1,799 baht to destinations such as bustling Taipei and tranquil Phu Quoc. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1358832-thai-vietjet-launches-summer-promotions-with-flights-from-799-baht/

Pictures courtesy of Vietjet Thailand Facebook Thai Vietjet is heating up the summer with an enticing promotional offer, featuring domestic flight fares starting at just 799 baht, inclusive of taxes and fees. Whether you're planning a beach holiday in Phuket, an urban retreat in Chiang Mai, or a cultural visit to Hat Yai, there's a deal waiting for you. International travel isn’t left behind, with fares beginning at 1,799 baht to destinations such as bustling Taipei and tranquil Phu Quoc. The sale commenced on April 24 and will run until April 28, covering travel dates from May 16 to December 31. However, these promotions are not valid during public holidays, so travellers are advised to book early to secure their preferred itineraries. A spokesperson for Thai Vietjet highlighted the broad range of routes available at these promotional rates. "From Bangkok to Fukuoka or Chiang Mai to Osaka, we’re making travel more affordable," they stated, underscoring the airline's commitment to accessible travel. The discounted fares include routes from Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi) to major cities like Shanghai, Beijing, and Guangzhou, as well as connections to Phnom Penh and Mumbai. For those heading to Japan, competitive fares to Okinawa and Hokkaido via Taipei are also available. Domestically, Thai Vietjet offers affordable flights from Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi) to several key locations, including Chiang Mai, Phuket, and Udon Thani, along with inter-regional routes like Phuket to Chiang Mai. Bookings can be made via the airline’s website, the Vietjet Thailand app, Facebook, or through authorized ticket agents, with payment options including TrueMoney Wallet and major debit/credit cards. In a further exciting offering, Thai Vietjet, in partnership with Sky Fun Travel, presents an exclusive package deal for two. For just 12,200 baht, travellers can enjoy a round-trip from Bangkok to Phu Quoc with a three-night stay at the Vin Holiday Festa Hotel. This package includes taxes, fees, and a 20kg checked baggage allowance, available for booking until April 30, with travel dates from May 13 to July 31. Travellers looking for an affordable way to explore Thailand and beyond this summer should seize these opportunities before they’re gone! Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-04-25

Twin Earthquakes Rattle Northern Thailand’s Pai District Picture of earthquake effects in Chiang Rai courtesy of The Nation Northern Thailand experienced a seismic jolt late last night with two earthquakes striking Mae Hong Son's picturesque Pai district, adding to a recent surge in regional seismic activity. The tremors, felt across Mae Hong Son and Chiang Mai provinces, have left residents on edge. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1358831-twin-earthquakes-rattle-northern-thailand’s-pai-district/

Picture of earthquake effects in Chiang Rai courtesy of The Nation Northern Thailand experienced a seismic jolt late last night with two earthquakes striking Mae Hong Son's picturesque Pai district, adding to a recent surge in regional seismic activity. The tremors, felt across Mae Hong Son and Chiang Mai provinces, have left residents on edge. The first earthquake, measuring 3.8 on the Richter scale, hit Wiang Nuea subdistrict at 10:27 p.m. on April 24, at a shallow depth of 4 kilometres. Merely six minutes later, a second, smaller quake of magnitude 2.4 occurred in nearby Mae Hee Subdistrict at a depth of just 1 kilometre. Although no injuries or structural damage have been reported, these incidents have prompted evacuations and heightened awareness among local residents. Officials from the Thai Meteorological Department’s Earthquake Watch Division are monitoring for potential aftershocks and advising the public to remain cautious. This uptick in seismic activity is part of a concerning trend in northern Thailand. On April 23, Chiang Mai experienced a 1.2-magnitude quake, part of a series of nine minor quakes in the area that day. Earlier, on April 14, the region was subjected to numerous quakes with magnitudes ranging from 1.4 to 5.9, stretching from Thailand to Myanmar. The most significant event occurred on March 28, when a destructive 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck central Myanmar near Mandalay. The shockwaves from this quake were felt as far as Bangkok, where the under-construction 30-storey State Audit Office building in Chatuchak collapsed, claiming at least 60 lives and leaving dozens missing. The recent seismic activity underscores the region's vulnerability and serves as a stark reminder of the devastating potential of earthquakes. Authorities continue to urge vigilance and preparedness as the geological situation unfolds. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-04-25

SAO Clarifies Wall Thickness Reduction in Collapsed Building Amid Probe Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post The State Audit Office (SAO) has issued a statement explaining the decision to reduce the wall thickness of elevator shafts in its 30-storey building, which allegedly contributed to its collapse during a recent earthquake. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1358830-sao-clarifies-wall-thickness-reduction-in-collapsed-building-amid-probe/

Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post The State Audit Office (SAO) has issued a statement explaining the decision to reduce the wall thickness of elevator shafts in its 30-storey building, which allegedly contributed to its collapse during a recent earthquake. The SAO's statement clarified that the adjustment in wall thickness was intended to comply with building standards for interior architecture, ensuring corridor widths met regulatory guidelines. The building's construction was undertaken by a joint venture, ITD-CREC, comprising Italian-Thai Development Plc and China Railway No.10 Thailand Co. Supervision of the project was handled by PKW joint venture, with Forum Architect Co and Meinhardt (Thailand) responsible for its design. Originally, the contractor discovered that the initial wall size, combined with additional decorative elements, risked narrowing the corridor width and breaching the Interior Ministry's regulations and the Building Control Act. In response, the contractor consulted the project supervisor and designer who advised modifying the shaft walls from 30 centimetres to 25 centimetres, strengthened with additional steel reinforcements. This change was confirmed by both the supervisor and designer, and the revised design was sanctioned by the Auditor-General and the State Audit Commission. Justice Minister Tawee Sodsong has raised concerns about the impact of these modifications on the building’s integrity, noting that the reduced thickness of 25 centimetres was considerably below the 60 centimetres typically found in similar structures. He announced that a team of engineers will conduct a thorough investigation to determine if the wall thickness reduction was a factor in the collapse. The investigation will include a detailed examination of the original building blueprints. With China Railway No.10 (Thailand) being a subsidiary of a Chinese state enterprise, Chinese authorities are also involved in evaluating the incident's implications. As investigations unfold, the decisions behind the building’s design adjustments will be closely scrutinised to provide insights into the factors leading to this catastrophic failure. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-04-25

BMA Vows to Locate Remaining Victims in Collapsed Chatuchak Building File photo for reference only The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has reaffirmed its commitment to finding all individuals trapped in the wreckage of the State Audit Office building as the rescue operation moves towards its final stages. The building, located in Chatuchak district, collapsed following a 7.7-magnitude earthquake in Myanmar on March 28, resulting in a devastating loss of life. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1358828-bma-vows-to-locate-remaining-victims-in-collapsed-chatuchak-building/

File photo for reference only The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has reaffirmed its commitment to finding all individuals trapped in the wreckage of the State Audit Office building as the rescue operation moves towards its final stages. The building, located in Chatuchak district, collapsed following a 7.7-magnitude earthquake in Myanmar on March 28, resulting in a devastating loss of life. Deputy Governor Tavida Kamolvej, speaking with CU Radio, assured the public that rescuers will continue their efforts until all missing persons are accounted for. "We are determined to find every one of them," Tavida stated, highlighting the unwavering resolve to locate the 34 individuals still unaccounted for from the initial 103 workers present during the collapse. The disaster has so far resulted in the deaths of 60 people, with nine others injured, all of whom have since been discharged from medical care. The building, initially a towering 30-storey structure under construction, was reduced to piles of debris measuring 27 meters high, spread across 1.6 square kilometres on the day of the quake. Recent efforts have lowered the debris to a height of seven metres, as team members approach the ground floor. Ms. Tavida anticipates that all ground floor debris will be cleared by month-end, with additional time in May dedicated to the basement area. The operation is intensely focused on zones B and C, where the majority of the bodies were recovered due to the building's collapse direction. Further complicating the search are the missing individuals, among them three Myanmar citizens. Efforts are underway to obtain DNA samples from their relatives, with City Hall seeking assistance from the Foreign Affairs Ministry to connect with the families through the Thai embassy in Myanmar. To date, over 100 body parts have been uncovered in the debris, and forensic experts at Police General Hospital are diligently working to match these remains with DNA samples from victims' relatives. The effort underscores the continued dedication to bring closure to families affected by this tragic event. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-04-25

Thailand Bans Underwater Photography for Diving Trainees to Protect Corals File photo for reference only In efforts to protect fragile marine ecosystems, Thailand's Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment has enacted a new regulation forbidding scuba-diving trainees and instructors from taking underwater photographs during training and examination dives. This directive, signed by Natural Resources and Environment Minister Chalermchai Sri-on, was officially published in the Royal Gazette. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1358826-thailand-bans-underwater-photography-for-diving-trainees-to-protect-corals/

File photo for reference only In efforts to protect fragile marine ecosystems, Thailand's Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment has enacted a new regulation forbidding scuba-diving trainees and instructors from taking underwater photographs during training and examination dives. This directive, signed by Natural Resources and Environment Minister Chalermchai Sri-on, was officially published in the Royal Gazette. The ban underscores urgent conservation measures aimed specifically at preserving the country's critically endangered corals, which have suffered significant damage from diving activities. The new rule stipulates that any underwater photography must be conducted by qualified divers who have completed the Advanced Open Water course through recognised organisations such as the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI), Scuba Schools International (SSI), or the Advanced Scuba Diver course from the National Association of Underwater Instructors (NAUI), or an equivalent qualification. Additionally, the ministerial order imposes restrictions on snorkelling activities over corals in shallow waters. Individuals are prohibited from snorkelling where seawater depths are less than two metres above coral formations and are required to wear life vests unless they have completed scuba diving or freediving courses. Pinsak Suraswadi, director-general of the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources, indicated that any diving operators found infringing on these regulations could face legal consequences. Violators risk receiving a jail term of up to two years and/or fines reaching 200,000 baht, in accordance with the Act on the Promotion of Marine and Coastal Resources Management. This new directive reflects a pivotal move to safeguard Thailand's marine biodiversity and highlights a growing emphasis on sustainable practices in diving and related activities. By restricting underwater photography to only qualified divers, the ministry aims to mitigate further harm to coral ecosystems while promoting responsible and eco-friendly diving practices. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-04-25

ASEAN Stays Firm on Diplomacy Amid US Tariff Pressures Picture courtesy of ASEAN In the face of rising US tariff threats, ASEAN has resolutely chosen diplomacy over retaliation, aiming to sustain strong trade ties with the US, its second-largest trading partner. This decisive stance was articulated by Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan following a virtual summit of ASEAN economic ministers, including Timor-Leste, held to address recent US trade measures announced on April 5. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1358825-asean-stays-firm-on-diplomacy-amid-us-tariff-pressures/