snoop1130

Royal Ploughing Ceremony Signals Start of Thai Rice Planting Season Today at Sanam Luang, the Royal Ploughing Ceremony, a pivotal event marking the onset of Thailand's rice planting season, was held with grandeur. Presided over by King Maha Vajiralongkorn and Queen Suthida, the ceremony included attendance from Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, cabinet members, and diplomatic representatives. This traditional event, aligning with the sixth lunar month, is revered for promoting agricultural prosperity and good fortune. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360250-royal-ploughing-ceremony-signals-start-of-thai-rice-planting-season/

Today at Sanam Luang, the Royal Ploughing Ceremony, a pivotal event marking the onset of Thailand's rice planting season, was held with grandeur. Presided over by King Maha Vajiralongkorn and Queen Suthida, the ceremony included attendance from Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, cabinet members, and diplomatic representatives. This traditional event, aligning with the sixth lunar month, is revered for promoting agricultural prosperity and good fortune. The ceremony’s central figure, Prayoon Insakul, permanent secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives, assumed the role of the Lord of the Plough. He was joined by Thirada Wongkudlao and Waraporn Wilaimaat, who carried gold baskets, and Chantisara Areesawat and Apichaya Fusang with silver baskets. The sacred oxen, named Phra Ko Pho and Phra Ko Phiang, along with reserves Phra Ko Phoem and Phra Ko Phun, played a crucial role in the ritual. Proceedings began with a procession past the royal pavilion, followed by the ceremonial ploughing. Adorned oxen and plough embarked on three clockwise rounds of ploughing, during which 4,880 kilogrammes of five rice seed varieties were sown, including Jasmine Rice 105 and RD79. Following seed sowing, a fortune-telling ritual was conducted using seven food items. Observations revealed the oxen consumed water, grass, and liquor, interpreted as an omen of ample water supply, agricultural abundance, and improvements in transport and trade, suggesting a prosperous economic outlook. The event also honoured outstanding national farmers and agricultural organisations with awards. Concluding the ceremony, the Lord of the Plough led a procession to the Chitralada Palace demonstration rice field for further seed sowing. In a gesture symbolising prosperity, King Maha Vajiralongkorn approved the distribution of 2,743 kilogrammes of royal rice seeds from the 2023 Chitralada experimental project. These seeds, packaged for nationwide distribution, are offered as tokens of good fortune and success in agriculture, embodying the spirit of this revered tradition. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-09

Security Guard Fatally Shot in Bangkok: Investigation Underway Picture courtesy of KhaoSod In the early hours of May 9, a security guard was tragically gunned down at the maintenance office of a waste disposal centre in Bangkok's Pravet district. The victim, 44-year-old Thirasak, was discovered near the entrance of On Nut 86, clad in a blue long-sleeve shirt and red shorts, having suffered a fatal gunshot wound to the left chest. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360249-security-guard-fatally-shot-in-bangkok-investigation-underway/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod In the early hours of May 9, a security guard was tragically gunned down at the maintenance office of a waste disposal centre in Bangkok's Pravet district. The victim, 44-year-old Thirasak, was discovered near the entrance of On Nut 86, clad in a blue long-sleeve shirt and red shorts, having suffered a fatal gunshot wound to the left chest. Police Captain Worawit Meekham from Pravet Police Station, along with forensic experts, a pathologist from the Police Hospital, and Ruamkatanyu Foundation volunteers, swiftly responded to the scene. Two 9mm bullet casings were retrieved as evidence, and a nearby four-door pickup truck bore a bullet hole in its right rear window, helping piece together the sequence of events. The deceased's wife, 43-year-old Ruchita, provided crucial insight into potential leads. She described Thirasak as a quiet individual who seldom disclosed personal issues. Prior to the incident, he had cryptically cautioned her against leaving the house if anything untoward occurred, hinting at possible conflicts with local individuals. Though she couldn't identify potential suspects, she urged authorities to delve deeper into the circumstances surrounding his death. Preliminary investigations revealed that Thirasak had an altercation with an unidentified suspect earlier in the evening. Records indicate his past involvement in drug-related and attempted murder cases in the Pravet area, for which he had served prison time. To expedite the investigation, police are meticulously reviewing nearby CCTV footage to identify the perpetrator and advance legal proceedings. As the community reels from this violent episode, the urgency to resolve the case and uncover the motives behind the attack remains paramount. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-09

Northern Thailand Shaken by Tremors Following Southern Earthquake Picture courtesy of the Earthquake Observation Division of the Thai Meteorological Department The province of Nan in northern Thailand experienced two small tremors early yesterday morning, following a prior earthquake in the southern province of Nakhon Si Thammarat that caused notable damage. The Earthquake Observation Division of the Thai Meteorological Department reported that the magnitudes in Nan registered 1.7 and 1.5 on the Richter scale, occurring at 4.04am and 4.52am respectively. Both tremors originated one kilometre underground in tambon Yap Hua Na, Wiang Sa district. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360248-northern-thailand-shaken-by-tremors-following-southern-earthquake/

Picture courtesy of the Earthquake Observation Division of the Thai Meteorological Department The province of Nan in northern Thailand experienced two small tremors early yesterday morning, following a prior earthquake in the southern province of Nakhon Si Thammarat that caused notable damage. The Earthquake Observation Division of the Thai Meteorological Department reported that the magnitudes in Nan registered 1.7 and 1.5 on the Richter scale, occurring at 4.04am and 4.52am respectively. Both tremors originated one kilometre underground in tambon Yap Hua Na, Wiang Sa district. These tremors in Nan came shortly after a more impactful 3.0-magnitude earthquake struck on May 7 in tambon Sai Ra, Chawang district, Nakhon Si Thammarat. Occurring at 5.31am, the quake was felt across Chawang and Phipun districts, prompting evacuations as a precaution. The epicentre of this earthquake was located one kilometre deep, revealing the vulnerability of infrastructure in the region. Chawang Crown Prince Hospital was temporarily evacuated, allowing public works officials to inspect the facility. They discovered some cracks caused by the earthquake, yet confirmed the structural integrity of the building remained intact. Elsewhere, damage to groundwater wells was reported, although reservoirs in Phipun, specifically Kathun and Klong Din Daeng, were unaffected. The 3.0-magnitude earthquake on May 7 alarmed residents across several subdistricts, with people reporting tremors and some hearing loud noises. Somdet Phra Yupparat Chawang Hospital and nearby residential flats were evacuated as a precaution, with ongoing damage assessments being conducted. The Thai Meteorological Department’s Earthquake Observation Division confirmed the epicentre's coordinates at 8.448N, 99.56E, approximately 82 kilometres northeast of Krabi's Mueang district. As aftershocks remain a concern, the Nakhon Si Thammarat provincial Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation has issued warnings for residents to remain vigilant. Emergency operation centres and local administrative bodies have been tasked with monitoring any developments closely to ensure community safety. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-09

Thailand to Halve Workplace Fatalities with New “Safety Thailand” Vision Photo courtesy of IndustriALL Global Union In a bold initiative to enhance workplace safety, Thailand's Labour Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn has launched the "Safety Thailand" vision, aiming to halve workplace fatalities within five years. Announced at the National Occupational Safety Day 2025 ceremony, the strategy seeks to reduce severe injuries from 2.13 to one per 1,000 workers and cut deaths from 5.3 to no more than three per 100,000 workers by 2030. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360247-thailand-to-halve-workplace-fatalities-with-new-“safety-thailand”-vision/

Photo courtesy of IndustriALL Global Union In a bold initiative to enhance workplace safety, Thailand's Labour Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn has launched the "Safety Thailand" vision, aiming to halve workplace fatalities within five years. Announced at the National Occupational Safety Day 2025 ceremony, the strategy seeks to reduce severe injuries from 2.13 to one per 1,000 workers and cut deaths from 5.3 to no more than three per 100,000 workers by 2030. Highlighting the significance of workplace safety as a fundamental human right, Phiphat stressed the need for elevated safety standards in light of digital and AI-driven workplace transformations. "We must ensure that innovation doesn’t come at the cost of human lives," he asserted. The event was attended by more than 300 participants, including representatives from the International Labour Organisation (ILO), government officials, industry leaders, and safety network members. Phiphat outlined a comprehensive strategy, including stricter enforcement of labour laws, expanded public awareness campaigns, and the establishment of province-level safety networks to monitor local workplaces. Acknowledging new challenges, the minister highlighted the necessity of preparing for natural disasters such as earthquakes and floods, advocating for routine drills and effective emergency systems. Phiphat specifically addressed chronic safety issues in Thailand's infrastructure projects, notably the hazardous conditions at construction sites on Rama II Road. He has tasked the Department of Labour Protection and Welfare with focusing on these areas. In response, the department convened with project owners, contractors, and safety specialists on April 2 to enforce new risk controls. A dedicated task force has been formed to ensure compliance with engineering standards, safeguarding both workers and the public. This initiative represents a significant step forward in Thailand’s commitment to safer working environments, aiming to protect human lives while maintaining economic growth. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-09

Thai Commerce Ministry Boosts Efforts to Combat Declining Fruit Prices Photo courtesy of The Royal Thai Consulate-General, Shanghai In a proactive response to plummeting fruit prices, Thailand's Commerce Ministry is fast-tracking the distribution of 950,000 tonnes of produce both domestically and internationally. Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan announced that the ministry is collaborating with various organisations to manage this surplus through a comprehensive strategy encompassing production, marketing, export, processing, and trade facilitation. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360246-thai-commerce-ministry-boosts-efforts-to-combat-declining-fruit-prices/

Photo courtesy of The Royal Thai Consulate-General, Shanghai In a proactive response to plummeting fruit prices, Thailand's Commerce Ministry is fast-tracking the distribution of 950,000 tonnes of produce both domestically and internationally. Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan announced that the ministry is collaborating with various organisations to manage this surplus through a comprehensive strategy encompassing production, marketing, export, processing, and trade facilitation. The Department of Internal Trade (DIT) is spearheading promotional activities in partnership with major retail chains such as Siam Paragon, Central, The Mall, and CP Axtra. These initiatives aim to widen distribution channels for farmers as the fruit harvest season gets underway. Additionally, the ministry has launched the Affordable Fertiliser Programme 2025 to support farmers. This programme, in collaboration with agricultural associations, fertiliser producers, and the Agriculture and Cooperatives Ministry, offers farmers discounted access to quality fertiliser and features over 79 different formulas. More than 10.06 million sacks are available nationwide at discounts of up to 50 baht per sack, accessible until September 30. On the international front, Thailand is making strides in negotiating free trade agreements (FTAs) with the European Union, South Korea, and an ASEAN-Canada pact. The ministry aims to finalise these agreements by year-end, which would expand Thailand's trade connections to over 50 countries, opening new opportunities for exporters and investors. The ministry has also rejuvenated the Thai Select certification mark, promoting the authenticity of Thai food products and restaurants globally. The refreshed logo, featuring an orchid-shaped star, classifies restaurants into four categories: Thai Select 1 Star, 2 Stars, 3 Stars, and Thai Select Casual, catering to a range from budget-friendly to high-end dining. By certifying more Thai restaurants abroad, the ministry encourages these establishments to source ingredients from Thailand, thereby boosting agricultural exports. The combined efforts reflect a comprehensive approach to sustaining Thailand's agricultural economy while expanding its global market reach. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-09

Thailand's Industry Ministry Eyes Regulation on Gas Canisters Amid Risks Pictures courtesy of MGR Online In response to rising incidents of explosions at barbecue restaurants, Thailand's Ministry of Industry is pushing to classify gas canisters as a controlled product. Minister Ekanat Prompan announced this proposal, citing the popularity of barbecue eateries using gas canisters that are often improperly reused despite being designed for single use. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360245-thailands-industry-ministry-eyes-regulation-on-gas-canisters-amid-risks/

Pictures courtesy of MGR Online In response to rising incidents of explosions at barbecue restaurants, Thailand's Ministry of Industry is pushing to classify gas canisters as a controlled product. Minister Ekanat Prompan announced this proposal, citing the popularity of barbecue eateries using gas canisters that are often improperly reused despite being designed for single use. Highlighting the dangers, Minister Ekanat stressed the importance of adhering to safety guidelines. Non-refillable butane gas canisters, often misused by refilling with LPG, present significant risks due to the higher pressures involved compared to butane. Steel LPG cylinders are meant to withstand such pressures, unlike the more fragile canisters, making them a potential explosion hazard. Wanchai Phanomchai, Secretary-General of the Thai Industrial Standards Institute (TISI), revealed that a new voluntary standard, TISI 4449-2568, for these butane canisters, is set for publication in the Royal Gazette next month. This standard aims to enhance safety given the canisters' widespread use. The standard includes pressure deformation tests and incorporates explosion prevention features, such as pressure relief systems and temperature-sensitive valves that automatically release pressure to prevent explosions. Additionally, clear warning labels will advise against flame or sunlight exposure, prohibit refilling, and stress adherence to manufacturer guidelines. Proper storage in cooler environments is essential to prevent deterioration. The classification move aims to expedite protective measures, with TISI in the final steps of presenting this proposal to its board. The initiative underscores the Ministry's commitment to public safety amid increasing cases of misuse. Concurrently, in a tragic event linked to ongoing regional conflicts, a police officer died in Narathiwat province following a bomb explosion while investigating a double murder. The incident unfolded on May 4, as Narathiwat Provincial Police officers were gathering CCTV footage, marking another reminder of the security challenges faced in the region. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-09

Government Declares Success in 3 Cuts Strategy Against Myanmar Call Centres Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post The Thai government's implementation of the 3 Cuts strategy to disrupt call centre operations in Myanmar has been declared a success three months into its execution. Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, speaking on May 8, highlighted the significant impact of the measures initiated since February 5 to target electricity, fuel, and internet access in key locations. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360244-government-declares-success-in-3-cuts-strategy-against-myanmar-call-centres/

Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post The Thai government's implementation of the 3 Cuts strategy to disrupt call centre operations in Myanmar has been declared a success three months into its execution. Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, speaking on May 8, highlighted the significant impact of the measures initiated since February 5 to target electricity, fuel, and internet access in key locations. The strategy focused on five areas, including the Second Thai-Myanmar Friendship Bridge, Ban Huay Muang in Myawaddy, the Three Pagodas Bridge in Payathongzu, and Ban Mueang Daeng, as well as the First Thai-Myanmar Friendship Bridge in Tachileik, Shan State. As a result, call centre activities, particularly in border regions like Mae Sai in Chiang Rai and Mae Sot in Tak, have notably decreased. Phumtham, doubling as the Defence Minister, noted the strategy has effectively dismantled infrastructures supporting these criminal networks, forcing many operations to shut down or relocate. A comprehensive evaluation of the policy's impact is anticipated in June, but preliminary results show a reduction in criminal activities, although some call centre scams have moved elsewhere. In conjunction with the 3 Cuts strategy, the government’s "Seal, Stop, Save" campaign addresses broader issues like human trafficking and drug trafficking along the borders. This initiative has resulted in a reported 60% rise in arrests and prosecutions compared to previous periods. Despite these achievements, challenges persist with neighbouring countries including Cambodia and Laos, where enforcement requires careful negotiation to avoid hindering legitimate trade. Border business operators have voiced concerns over impacts on exports, particularly those relying on unofficial crossings. However, Phumtham assured that formal trade routes remain open, restricting only those goods potentially linked to scams. Efforts to repatriate victims from diverse regions such as Africa and Latin America continue, though logistical challenges persist due to coordination hurdles with home countries. In collaboration with NGOs, ongoing efforts aim to assist these individuals. Foreign Affairs Minister Maris Sangiampongsa noted Ethiopia's recent repatriation of 282 call centre victims working illegally in Myanmar, with another 469 set to return soon. This action represents a growing international commitment to tackling human trafficking and cybercrime, discussed prominently with Ethiopian Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos at a recent Brics meeting in Brazil. Since the power and internet cuts began, cybercrime reports in March have fallen by 20% from 31,159 cases in January, underscoring the strategy’s effectiveness in suppressing illicit activities. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-09

Arrest Warrants Expected in State Audit Office Building Collapse Probe Picture courtesy of Bangkok Metropolitan Administration Authorities are poised to issue arrest warrants next week for three groups linked to the recent collapse of the State Audit Office’s under-construction building. The structure fell following the earthquake on March 28, prompting a comprehensive investigation led by the Metropolitan Police Bureau. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360243-arrest-warrants-expected-in-state-audit-office-building-collapse-probe/

Picture courtesy of Bangkok Metropolitan Administration Authorities are poised to issue arrest warrants next week for three groups linked to the recent collapse of the State Audit Office’s under-construction building. The structure fell following the earthquake on March 28, prompting a comprehensive investigation led by the Metropolitan Police Bureau. Police Major General Noppasin Poolsawat, Deputy Chief of the Metropolitan Police Bureau, has stated that so far, 193 witnesses have been interviewed. These include officials from the State Audit Office (SAO), relatives of the injured, as well as contracted building designers, construction supervisors, and workers involved in the project. The thorough investigation has gathered various forms of evidence, ranging from witness statements to physical and circumstantial evidence. Key documentation, including terms of reference, design and supervision contracts, and construction materials like steel and concrete fragments, are under scrutiny. Focus has narrowed to three main groups: the design team from Forum Architect and Meinhardt (Thailand); the construction team associated with ITD-CREC, a collaboration of Italian-Thai Development and China Railway Number 10 (Thailand); and the construction supervision team of PKW, a joint venture including PN Synchronise, KP Consultants and Management, and W and Associates Consultants. The 30-storey building’s design has been reviewed by the Council of Engineers, the Engineering Institute of Thailand, and experts at Chulalongkorn University. These bodies are assessing compliance with architectural and engineering standards, construction principles, and ministerial regulations, with results anticipated next week. Investigators have gathered 315 pieces of material evidence, including steel and concrete samples, which have undergone initial analysis. Further findings are expected to bolster the case as final results are prepared for next week, setting the stage for forthcoming legal actions against those deemed responsible for the catastrophic failure. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-09

Recycling Firm's Board Member Arrested for 333 Million Baht Tax Fraud Picture courtesy of KhaoSod In a significant development, the Economic Crime Suppression Division (ECD) police have detained Sarisa Raksinapapawi, a board member of a recycling company, for allegedly participating in a tax fraud scheme that resulted in state losses exceeding 333 million baht (US$10 million). Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360240-recycling-firms-board-member-arrested-for-333-million-baht-tax-fraud/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod In a significant development, the Economic Crime Suppression Division (ECD) police have detained Sarisa Raksinapapawi, a board member of a recycling company, for allegedly participating in a tax fraud scheme that resulted in state losses exceeding 333 million baht (US$10 million). The ECD, under the directive of Police Major General Thatphum Charuphat, acted on a warrant issued by the Pathum Thani Provincial Court on September 4, 2024. Sarisa, 46, was apprehended in front of a residence in the Sam Khok district of Pathum Thani province. The charges against her stem from collaborative efforts between ECD officers and the Revenue Department officials. The investigation, which began in 2017, involved inspecting a recycling company in Uttaradit province following allegations of tax fraud. It was discovered that the company had been acquiring unauthorised tax invoices to claim fraudulent value-added tax refunds. Investigators scrutinising the company’s tax documents uncovered 1,012 fictitious tax invoices, implicating a recycling trading company registered in Pathum Thani, where Sarisa served as managing director. She was identified as the signatory on these documents. Upon visiting the company’s registered office, officers found no legitimate business operations conducted at the site. These fraudulent activities implicated both companies in severe financial harm to the state. As the investigation progressed, accumulated evidence led to arrest warrants. Sarisa, who has been residing in Pathum Thani, was eventually captured by the authorities. During questioning, Sarisa denied the allegations, but officials remain sceptical given the extent of the evidence. She has been turned over to ECD investigators for further legal proceedings as the investigation continues to unravel the full scope of the tax fraud operation. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-09

Lop Buri Man Investigated After Wife Found Dead Post-Argument Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A 61-year-old man in Lop Buri province is under scrutiny following the discovery of his 66-year-old wife's lifeless body in their apartment after an alleged alcohol-fuelled argument. The incident occurred early on May 9, when Police Lieutenant Banchachop Choptham of Phatthana Nikhom Police Station received a report of a death at a local dormitory. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360239-lop-buri-man-investigated-after-wife-found-dead-post-argument/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A 61-year-old man in Lop Buri province is under scrutiny following the discovery of his 66-year-old wife's lifeless body in their apartment after an alleged alcohol-fuelled argument. The incident occurred early on May 9, when Police Lieutenant Banchachop Choptham of Phatthana Nikhom Police Station received a report of a death at a local dormitory. The investigative team, including Police Colonel Chaimit Sitthipoon, forensic officers, and medical personnel, arrived at the scene located near room B1 to find the area in chaos. The door was ajar, and broken liquor bottles littered the floor, indicating a tumultuous altercation. The deceased, identified as Urai, was discovered lying on her left side on the bed, bearing physical signs consistent with a struggle and assault—facial swelling, body bruises, and a fan cord around her neck. It was estimated she had passed two to three hours prior to discovery. Outside the disordered room, Niphon, the husband, stood in a state of shock and evident intoxication. During initial questioning, he confessed to having an argument with Urai after noticing her conversing with another man in Bangkok during work. He claimed the argument escalated into a physical fight due to their inebriated state, after which he left to drink more. When he returned, he found his wife deceased. However, police maintain scepticism towards Niphon's narrative, citing inconsistencies and contradictory evidence that suggest a more complex situation. He remains in custody for further questioning as investigators seek to clarify the circumstances leading to Urai’s death. Her body has been transported to Phatthana Nikhom Hospital for an autopsy, which will aim to ascertain the precise cause of death before additional forensic examination. The investigation continues, focusing on unraveling the events of that night and determining any culpability. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-09

Thai Senators Oppose 956 Million Baht Parliament Renovation Plan Picture courtesy of Sum Up In a strong display of dissent, a group of 30 Thai senators has publicly opposed a proposed 956 million baht budget for renovations at the country's new parliament complex, branding the plan as excessive, misdirected, and lacking public benefit. Spearheaded by Senator Nantana Nantavaropas at a press conference on May 8, the group criticised the initiative for failing to address existing structural issues. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360238-thai-senators-oppose-956-million-baht-parliament-renovation-plan/

Picture courtesy of Sum Up In a strong display of dissent, a group of 30 Thai senators has publicly opposed a proposed 956 million baht budget for renovations at the country's new parliament complex, branding the plan as excessive, misdirected, and lacking public benefit. Spearheaded by Senator Nantana Nantavaropas at a press conference on May 8, the group criticised the initiative for failing to address existing structural issues. Senator Nantana highlighted a number of ongoing concerns, including leaking walls, collapsed ceilings, mouldy columns, and failing air-conditioning units, all persisting despite the fact that the complex is only four years old and still under warranty. These issues call into question contractor accountability given the original construction cost of 22 billion baht (US$666 million). The proposed renovations include projects such as refurbishing the dormant Parliamentary Museum, installing a 4D cinema, and upgrading lighting in seminar rooms. The addition of air-conditioning units to the Sala Kaeo (Crystal Pavilion) was particularly contentious, with concerns about soaring electricity costs. Senator Nantana criticised the plan for failing to address these pressing defects, suggesting it prioritises unnecessary projects over urgent repairs. "These projects seem aimed at enhancing the comfort of parliamentarians, rather than addressing public needs. We will use every possible channel to block this wasteful spending," she declared. Additional proposals, such as a new parking structure estimated at 4.6 billion baht (US$139 million), have also faced scrutiny. Senator Nantana highlighted the average cost of 1 million baht (US$30,270) per parking space as excessive, stating that while the building does not meet minimum parking requirements, the scale of the new project is unnecessarily grandiose. Opposition is not limited to the Senate. Chatree Ladalalitsakul, the building’s chief architect, expressed concerns over plans to fill in the Emerald Pool—a feature integral to the building's natural cooling system—to construct a public library and shops. He warned that such changes would compromise the building's energy efficiency, necessitating costly air-conditioning and sealing work for the 10-storey structure. The debate underscores a significant clash of perspectives regarding resource allocation, energy efficiency, and public accountability. As the proposed budget faces mounting opposition, the dialogue is likely to continue, focusing on the complex balance between modernisation and maintaining functionality in public spaces. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-09

Thai-Ghanaian Fraud Gang Arrested for 200 Million Baht Japan Scam Photo: Bangkok Post In a significant crackdown, Thai authorities have arrested six members of a multinational fraud gang, consisting of five Thai nationals and one Ghanaian, for orchestrating a scam that swindled over 200 million baht from a company in Japan. The arrests, carried out by the Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau (CCIB), took place in various locations, including Bangkok, Nakhon Pathom, and Nonthaburi. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360237-thai-ghanaian-fraud-gang-arrested-for-200-million-baht-japan-scam/

Thailand Adjusts Tourism Goals Amid 30% Drop in Chinese Visitors Photo courtesy of South China Morning Post Facing a significant decrease in Chinese visitors, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is considering revising its foreign tourist targets for the year. Initially projecting 37.46 million visitors and 3.4 trillion baht in revenue for 2025, TAT may lower these numbers to approximately 35.54 million tourists, mirroring last year's figures. Chinese tourists, key contributors to Thailand's tourism, are expected to number only 4 million this year. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360236-thailand-adjusts-tourism-goals-amid-30-drop-in-chinese-visitors/

Photo: Bangkok Post In a significant crackdown, Thai authorities have arrested six members of a multinational fraud gang, consisting of five Thai nationals and one Ghanaian, for orchestrating a scam that swindled over 200 million baht from a company in Japan. The arrests, carried out by the Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau (CCIB), took place in various locations, including Bangkok, Nakhon Pathom, and Nonthaburi. The gang managed to deceive the Japanese firm into transferring 228 million baht to a bank account controlled by the group in Thailand. Although the CCIB successfully managed to freeze nearly all the assets, the gang withdrew 13 million baht before being apprehended. Two other gang members, a Thai and a Nigerian national, remain at large with active warrants issued for their arrest, according to Pol Gen Thatchai Pitaneelaboot, the Royal Thai Police inspector-general. The fraud operation involved setting up a puppet company in Thailand to exploit the Japanese firm. The gang infiltrated a South Korean business partner, using its identity to establish a company in Thailand. They hacked emails and sent fraudulent invoices to the Japanese firm under the guise of legitimate product deliveries. However, irregularities caught the attention of the Japanese firm's fraud audit team, leading to an investigation by the CCIB and the arrests. Pol Lt Gen Trairong Phiewphan, chief of the CCIB, emphasized the elaborateness and premeditated nature of the scheme, highlighting the gang's long-term strategy to execute the crime. The CCIB continues to investigate further, examining whether other entities were involved as front companies for the gang. This case highlights ongoing challenges in global cybercrime and the importance of international cooperation in tackling sophisticated fraud schemes. While progress has been made in capturing those responsible, efforts continue to apprehend the remaining suspects and prevent future incidents. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-05-09