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File photo for reference only A thick shroud of ultrafine dust pollution has descended upon Bangkok and 53 of Thailand’s 76 provinces, leaving the air quality in a perilous state, according to the latest findings from the Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA). The Central Plains and the east bore the brunt of this hazardous haze. GISTDA’s report, released at 8 am today, highlights alarmingly high PM2.5 levels across the capital and 27 provinces, pushing past the safe limit of 37.5 microgrammes per cubic metre and soaring into the danger zone with readings between 75.7 and 112.4. Topping the list was Trat, choking under a PM2.5 level of 112.4, followed by Bangkok at 103.7, and Pathum Thani at 102.5. Samut Prakan, Chachoengsao, and Chon Buri also reported staggering figures above the 100 mark. A further 22 provinces weren’t spared, grappling with hazardous PM2.5 concentrations, including Nakhon Pathom, Ratchaburi, Samut Sakhon, Saraburi, and Nonthaburi. Meanwhile, 26 more provinces faced an orange warning, denoting significant health risks from PM2.5 levels ranging from 39.7 to 74.6. Regions such as Khon Kaen, Loei, Nan, Nong Khai, Phuket, Songkhla, and Tak were all caught in the smog’s grip. Amidst the grim figures, a silver lining emerged for residents in 23 provinces enjoying very good, good, or moderate air quality. Amnat Charoen stood out with pristine air, while provinces including Chiang Mai, Krabi, and Ranong breathed easier with good air quality. Meanwhile, the Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) issued a weather forecast cautioning residents in South Thailand of thunderstorms and high seas, while the upper regions of Thailand will experience cool mornings with fog and hot afternoons. The forecast predicts a weak high-pressure system will cover the northeastern areas and the South China Sea, causing the upper regions to be cool in the morning and hot during the day. Mountain peaks will experience cold to very cold weather. Residents are advised to take care of their health due to changing conditions, be cautious of fire hazards due to dry conditions, and drive carefully in foggy areas, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-14

AirAsia's 2024 Passenger Surge: A 11% Rise with Fleet Expansion File photo for reference only AirAsia is celebrating a triumphant 2024, recording a notable increase in passenger numbers as it expanded its fleet to accommodate growing travel demands. The budget airline carried over 63 million passengers last year, marking an 11% rise from 2023. Enhancing its operations, AirAsia reported an improved load factor of 89%. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351793-airasias-2024-passenger-surge-a-11-rise-with-fleet-expansion/

File photo for reference only AirAsia is celebrating a triumphant 2024, recording a notable increase in passenger numbers as it expanded its fleet to accommodate growing travel demands. The budget airline carried over 63 million passengers last year, marking an 11% rise from 2023. Enhancing its operations, AirAsia reported an improved load factor of 89%. The final quarter of 2024 was particularly impressive, with the airline transporting 16.2 million passengers—up 9% from the previous year. During this period, AirAsia operated 101,084 flights, compared to 92,633 in 2023, while the average flight distance increased by 2% to 751 miles (1,203 km). Fleet expansion was crucial to this growth, as AirAsia increased its number of active planes to 205 from a total of 224. The airline reactivated 14 aircraft and introduced 10 new planes throughout the year, including nine Airbus A321neos and a pre-owned Airbus A320. Looking ahead to 2025, AirAsia plans to bolster its fleet further, with an additional nine aircraft re-entering service in the first quarter and another seven by mid-year. The airline's expansion strategy continues as it leverages new aircraft to maximise revenue capabilities. Originating in 1996 with a lone Boeing 737-300, AirAsia has grown into a regional leader, operating seven sub-brands. These include short-haul services like AirAsia, Thai AirAsia, and others, alongside long-haul carriers AirAsia X and Thai AirAsia X. Despite past setbacks with ventures such as Indonesia AirAsia X and the AirAsia India rebranding, the company maintains its forward momentum, poised for further growth in 2025, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-14

Thai Exports Gain Momentum Amid US Trade Policy Uncertainty Picture of shipping containers at Laem Chabang deep-sea port in Chon Buri province, courtesy of Bangkok Post In light of US trade policy shifts, the Export-Import Bank of Thailand is optimistic about the nation’s export growth this year. President Rak Vorrakitpokatorn highlights increased demand from regions such as the EU, South Asia, and Southeast Asia, partly due to uncertainties surrounding US imports. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351792-thai-exports-gain-momentum-amid-us-trade-policy-uncertainty/

Picture of shipping containers at Laem Chabang deep-sea port in Chon Buri province, courtesy of Bangkok Post In light of US trade policy shifts, the Export-Import Bank of Thailand is optimistic about the nation’s export growth this year. President Rak Vorrakitpokatorn highlights increased demand from regions such as the EU, South Asia, and Southeast Asia, partly due to uncertainties surrounding US imports. The last quarter of last year saw a boost in exports in various countries in anticipation of potential changes. Vietnam's exports jumped by 11%, China by 10%, Taiwan by 9%, and South Korea by 4%. However, the fluctuating baht presents a challenge, having varied by nine baht against the dollar in 2024. The bank advises exporters to employ forward contracts and options to hedge against currency volatility, aiming for a balanced exchange rate at approximately 34.5 baht per US dollar. Additionally, there is concern about cheap Chinese goods entering markets amid geopolitical tensions, potentially impacting sectors like electronics and chemicals. -- 2025-02-14

Volvo Drives Modest Growth with New EV Models and Repair Services Picture courtesy of GT Auto Volvo Car Thailand anticipates a 5% growth in car sales for 2024, fuelled by new electric vehicle (EV) models and an innovative battery repair service. Aimed at reducing long-term maintenance costs, this strategy targets eco-conscious consumers. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351790-volvo-drives-modest-growth-with-new-ev-models-and-repair-services/

Picture courtesy of GT Auto Volvo Car Thailand anticipates a 5% growth in car sales for 2024, fuelled by new electric vehicle (EV) models and an innovative battery repair service. Aimed at reducing long-term maintenance costs, this strategy targets eco-conscious consumers. Managing Director Chris Wailes admits the Thai automotive industry faces challenges, including tight auto loans, high household debt, and a sluggish economy. Financial institutions are tightening lending amidst rising household debt levels, which reached 90% of GDP last year. Volvo projects domestic car sales to decline slightly, expected at 550,000-560,000 units in 2024, down from 572,675 last year. Premium car sales are predicted to remain stable, contributing to 40% of the market. Globally, Volvo monitors the impact of US trade policies under Donald Trump. Recent US tariffs on Chinese goods and China's counter-tariffs raise concerns about increased Chinese EV exports to Southeast Asia, amid fraught US-China trade relations. However, Wailes remains optimistic about minimising these impacts locally. Domestically, Volvo plans a 24% increase in battery EV and plug-in hybrid EV sales this year, aiming for fully electric models to comprise 80% of sales by 2024. Wailes sees plug-in hybrids as an affordable choice for Thai consumers. Enhancing after-sales services, Volvo plans to launch a battery repair centre mid-year, complemented by smart repair services for bodywork. With these efforts, Volvo aims to drive Thailand’s automotive industry towards a sustainable future, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-14

Embassies Convene: Sorting Victims from Villains in Trafficking Probe Picture courtesy of Homeland Security Today Embassies from across Southeast Asia were summoned to the Royal Thai Police headquarters in Bangkok today to assist in the identification of over 260 foreigners recently rescued from human trafficking networks in the region. The embassies' primary task is to provide critical information that would help determine which of their nationals are genuine victims of trafficking and which might be perpetrators themselves, hiding in plain sight among the rescued. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351789-embassies-convene-sorting-victims-from-villains-in-trafficking-probe/

Picture courtesy of Homeland Security Today Embassies from across Southeast Asia were summoned to the Royal Thai Police headquarters in Bangkok today to assist in the identification of over 260 foreigners recently rescued from human trafficking networks in the region. The embassies' primary task is to provide critical information that would help determine which of their nationals are genuine victims of trafficking and which might be perpetrators themselves, hiding in plain sight among the rescued. Just last week, multiple raids across Myanmar, Cambodia, and Laos dismantled several branches of notorious human trafficking syndicates. These operations were part of a larger crackdown aimed at disrupting transnational crime rings operating in the region. In the aftermath, those freed were brought under the protective custody of Thai authorities, who now face the daunting task of untangling identities and roles. The Director of the Royal Thai Police’s Anti-Human Trafficking Centre, Police General Thatchai Pitaneelaboot, is leading this effort. Leveraging the wealth of data from the RTP’s criminal database, alongside ongoing investigative work, General Thatchai hopes to accurately discern the innocent from the deceptive. He highlighted the intricate nature of these traffickers, some of whom attempt to masquerade as victims to evade justice. In a proactive move, the Philippine Embassy has already provided key details about its nationals, showcasing the importance of multi-nation collaboration in such complex cases. As the investigation unfolds, more embassies are expected to follow suit, contributing to a clearer picture of the scenario. Thailand’s commitment to addressing the trafficking issue remains strong, bolstered by Pol. Gen. Thatchai's assertion: "It’s unfair to let traffickers posing as victims escape accountability." The coming weeks are likely to reveal more about the true nature of those rescued, with further arrests and revelations anticipated as Thai authorities refine their identification efforts amidst this pressing humanitarian and legal challenge, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-14

Thai Monk Resigns Due to Scandalous Selfie Controversy Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A monk in Thailand has stepped down after a scandalous selfie with a woman came to light, shaking the religious community. The monk from Khon Kaen province has been asked to renounce his monkhood within a week after the photo's credibility was verified. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351788-thai-monk-resigns-due-to-scandalous-selfie-controversy/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A monk in Thailand has stepped down after a scandalous selfie with a woman came to light, shaking the religious community. The monk from Khon Kaen province has been asked to renounce his monkhood within a week after the photo's credibility was verified. The incident was addressed in a meeting at Wat Ban Lan in Ban Phai district, where the monastic committee and local leaders, along with the provincial Buddhist office, convened. The image, capturing the monk with a woman in a resort room, prompted his resignation. Pharakhru Pariyattisarnwisut Chanruang, chief monk of the district, cited the breach of the second Buddhist precept, which suggests that solitary presence with someone in a private space can be incriminating. Though the infraction is minor as a sanghadisesa, with no evidence suggesting sexual misconduct, the abbot's resignation was deemed necessary. The abbot confessed the photo dates back three years and he knew the woman for four years. However, he claims to have severed ties since then. The leak's source remains mysterious, hinging solely on his confession and the disputed photograph. The Buddhist council’s decision mandates the abbot’s departure from Ban Phai district, reflecting the sanghadisesa violation. Potential harsher charges could emerge if further evidence surfaces, yet the immediate outcome is a dent in public trust. The abbot, visibly distressed, departed in casual attire following the decision. He declined to answer media queries, leaving in a vehicle, choosing silence, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-14

Loei Cable Car Project at Phu Kradueng Gains Government Backing Photo courtesy of The Nation The long-debated cable car project in Phu Kradueng National Park, Loei Province, has gained substantial forward momentum as the government body, the Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration (DASTA), officially supports the proposed feasibility study. This development aims to assess the project's viability, including environmental impacts and community opinions. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351787-loei-cable-car-project-at-phu-kradueng-gains-government-backing/

Photo courtesy of The Nation The long-debated cable car project in Phu Kradueng National Park, Loei Province, has gained substantial forward momentum as the government body, the Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration (DASTA), officially supports the proposed feasibility study. This development aims to assess the project's viability, including environmental impacts and community opinions. DASTA's director, Thitipong Khiawpaisan, confirmed that the Tourism and Sports Minister, Sorawong Thienthong, has commissioned the agency to spearhead this study. Essential components will involve cable car design, an environmental impact assessment (EIA) report, and public consultations to ensure a comprehensive evaluation before seeking approval from the National Environment Board (NEB) and subsequently, the Cabinet. On a recent inspection of the proposed site, Thitipong, accompanied by provincial officials and local community groups, highlighted the potential benefits of the project. Implementing the cable car could boost local employment, improve site access, enhance safety, and support environmental preservation efforts within the park. The project garnered approval from multiple governmental bodies, including DASTA, the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP), and the Office of Natural Resources and Environmental Policy and Planning (ONEP), amongst others. A progress report has been submitted to the relevant minister, Sorawong, ensuring continued backing. This initiative has gained urgency following the untimely death of a local vendor climbing the park paths, accentuating the need for safer and more accessible travel options within the park. Saran Timsuwan, an MP for Loei from the Pheu Thai Party, pointed out that the proposal has seen renewed interest and is on the priority list for the government. In a recent visit to Loei, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra expressed her support for the project, emphasizing its potential to revitalize tourism and streamline park management by making it more accessible. As it stands, the Phu Kradueng summit is only reachable by foot or helicopter; the cable car project promises to provide a sustainable and safer alternative. The government anticipates substantial progress in the coming months, with more detailed planning expected by March, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-14

Unidentified Truck Flees Phetchabun Crash; Mother Seeks Justice Photo courtesy of KhaoSod In an unfortunate incident in Phetchabun Province, a local woman was left critically injured after her tricycle was hit by an 18-wheel truck. The truck fled the scene, leaving the woman, who is the primary breadwinner for her family, in a dire situation. She is now battling severe injuries and seeks assistance to identify the truck driver responsible. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351786-unidentified-truck-flees-phetchabun-crash-mother-seeks-justice/

Photo courtesy of KhaoSod In an unfortunate incident in Phetchabun Province, a local woman was left critically injured after her tricycle was hit by an 18-wheel truck. The truck fled the scene, leaving the woman, who is the primary breadwinner for her family, in a dire situation. She is now battling severe injuries and seeks assistance to identify the truck driver responsible. The collision occurred around 5:30 am on February 2 near Ban Na Bridge. Jiraporn Khumpairin, the injured woman, was on her routine trip to collect scrap when the truck sideswiped her vehicle, eventually overturning it. Her nine-year-old daughter, asleep in the sidecar, fortunately, sustained only minor injuries. Jiraporn, however, suffered a torn muscle with an exposed bone in her leg, necessitating numerous surgeries due to infection. Jiraporn is the sole provider for her family, which includes a visually impaired husband and two young daughters. With her injury rendering her unable to work, the family now struggles to make ends meet. Her sister, Supatra Makath, highlighted the gravity of their situation, explaining that Jiraporn's eldest daughter has been out of school for two weeks to care for her mother. A Facebook post by Supatra has reached the public, appealing for help to locate and bring the truck driver to justice. Despite lodging a police report with Tha Phon District Police, the incident was recorded as a self-inflicted accident, leading to fears of an unjust outcome. Jiraporn distinctly remembers the truck being covered with a black tarpaulin, asserting that she did not fall on her own, but was indeed hit. Her statement contradicts the police report, prompting her to reach out to the media in hopes of fair treatment and assistance. Legal support and information about the involved truck are urged. Any assistance can significantly impact this family struggling through a challenging time, and anyone with information able to help is encouraged to come forward, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-14

Tourist Brawl in Phuket Sparks Debate on Visitor Behavior - video Photo courtesy of The Phuket News A street brawl involving foreign tourists outside Cafe del Mar in Kamala, Phuket, has gone viral on social media, sparking discussions about the type of tourists visiting the island. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351782-tourist-brawl-in-phuket-sparks-debate-on-visitor-behavior-video/

Photo courtesy of The Phuket News A street brawl involving foreign tourists outside Cafe del Mar in Kamala, Phuket, has gone viral on social media, sparking discussions about the type of tourists visiting the island. The 1-minute, 37-second video, shared by the "โหดจัง จังหวัดภูเก็ต" Facebook page on February 14, shows a chaotic scene with intoxicated tourists exchanging blows while shocked bystanders look on. The fight, which began outside the popular nightlife venue, quickly escalated into a violent street brawl. In the video, one man attempts to break a bottle over another's head, and others are seen throwing punches and kicks. A particularly alarming moment captures a man repeatedly kicked while on the ground, despite attempts by bystanders, including two women, to intervene. The video's caption, expressing frustration over the incident, states, “It’s famous again. Free visa, quality tourists – drunk and fighting in Kamala, Phuket, causing trouble and damaging the island’s image again.” This highlights growing concerns about Phuket's tourism environment. Social media users voiced mixed reactions. Many blamed lenient visa policies for the influx of disruptive visitors. Comments included, “Phuket is a beautiful place, but incidents like this ruin its reputation,” and calls for immediate deportation with suggestions to report the culprits to their embassies. Others argued that unruly tourist behavior isn't unique to Phuket and shouldn't solely be attributed to visa regulations. Local police are currently examining the footage and have promised to take legal action against those involved. Further details have yet to be released by authorities, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-14

UPDATE: Tourist's Mix-Up Adventure: From Chiang Mai to Koh Tao Photo courtesy of The Nation A French tourist named Jack set out on a dream trip to Koh Tao in Surat Thani, Thailand, but a simple mix-up landed him in Doi Tao, Chiang Mai - over 800 kilometers off course. While trying to hitchhike south, he lost his wallet in Suphan Buri but thanks to the kindness of locals and quick assistance from police, he was able to retrieve it and continue his journey. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351667-foreign-tourists-saved-by-thai-police-after-travel-mishap/#findComment-19585263

Tourist's Mix-Up Adventure: From Chiang Mai to Koh Tao Photo courtesy of The Nation A French tourist named Jack set out on a dream trip to Koh Tao in Surat Thani, Thailand, but a simple mix-up landed him in Doi Tao, Chiang Mai - over 800 kilometers off course. While trying to hitchhike south, he lost his wallet in Suphan Buri but thanks to the kindness of locals and quick assistance from police, he was able to retrieve it and continue his journey. Jack initially found himself in the wrong city due to a miscommunication but didn't lose hope. He hitched a ride in a cabbage truck heading south. During a dinner stop at a petrol station in Suphan Buri's Mueang district, misfortune struck again as he lost his wallet and passport. Unable to stay with Jack, the truck driver left him at Song Phi Nong Police Station. There, Police Corporal Teerapat Modjod took action. They received news that a Good Samaritan had turned in Jack's wallet, which had been found at the petrol station. Reunited with his belongings, Jack was grateful for the help and explained it was his first trip to Thailand. The police provided him with accommodation for the night and assisted him in finding transportation to put him back on track towards his desired destination. Despite the detours, Jack's tale showcases the warmth and helpfulness of Thai locals, who ensured his adventure continued smoothly, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-13

Mystery in Kamphaeng Phet: Family Found Dead in Pickup Picture courtesy of KhaoSod In a scene straight out of a crime thriller, the discovery of three dead bodies inside an abandoned pickup truck has sent shockwaves through the quiet community of Khlong Khlung in Kamphaeng Phet province, Thailand. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351702-mystery-in-kamphaeng-phet-family-found-dead-in-pickup/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod In a scene straight out of a crime thriller, the discovery of three dead bodies inside an abandoned pickup truck has sent shockwaves through the quiet community of Khlong Khlung in Kamphaeng Phet province, Thailand. It all began with a simple complaint from local residents about a foul odour, which led Thai police to a chilling scene on February 13. At around 11 am, officers responded to a report of a suspicious pickup truck parked at a deserted site off Phahonyothin Road. Arriving at the scene, police, along with rescue volunteers from the Sawang Kamphaeng Phet Rescue Foundation, found themselves facing a grim mystery. In front of a dilapidated concrete house stood a white Isuzu D-Max, partially covered with a white cloth and surrounded by swarming flies. The discovery inside the truck was heartbreaking. A family—37-year-old Wongkorn, 35-year-old Nantakarn, and their 7-year-old daughter, Nong Sunday—were found dead. The mother and child were found embracing in the passenger seat, while the father lay in the backseat. Tragically, this family had been missing for about a month. They were known for running a clothing business and renting out sound systems, but what led to their untimely deaths remains a mystery. Officers found an unknown bullet in the vehicle, hinting at a possible crime. Chillingly, CCTV footage from January 12, the day of their disappearance, showed the family during their last journey, with Nong Sunday riding in the back. Investigators at Khlong Khlung Police Station are now piecing together the clues to unravel this dark puzzle. As the investigation continues, the community is left in shock, grappling with unanswered questions about this tragic incident, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-13

Mystery Shrouds Death of Thai Man Found in Phuket Resort A perplexing incident has gripped Phuket, as local police investigate the mysterious death of 59-year-old Thai man, Somsak Thongthong. His body was found last night in a Kamala resort, leaving authorities baffled. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351700-mystery-shrouds-death-of-thai-man-found-in-phuket-resort/

A perplexing incident has gripped Phuket, as local police investigate the mysterious death of 59-year-old Thai man, Somsak Thongthong. His body was found last night in a Kamala resort, leaving authorities baffled. Police were alerted around 9:30 p.m. and arrived promptly with a medical examiner from Vachira Phuket Hospital. Somsak, a security guard from Bangkok’s Bang Khen area, was found shirtless in navy blue shorts, lifeless on the bed. There were no visible wounds or signs of a struggle, and no forced entry into the room. The alarm was raised by a resort security guard who had last seen Somsak at 6:30 p.m. before running an errand for him. Upon the guard’s return at 7:00 p.m., Somsak didn’t answer the door, leading the guard to assume he had gone out. Growing concerned after another hour with no response, the guard climbed onto the balcony, saw Somsak unresponsive, and called the police. Medical officials estimate Somsak had been dead for less than four hours when they arrived. Without any evident cause of death at the scene, his body was sent to Vachira Phuket Hospital for a post-mortem. Kamala Police Chief Pol Col Somsak Thongkliang stated that the investigation is ongoing, and they are awaiting medical results to determine if there was any foul play involved. The sudden and unexplained nature of Somsak's death has left the community searching for answers reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-13

Motorcyclist Dies in Construction Pit in Loei Accident Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A tragic accident occurred in Loei province last night when Adisak, a 41-year-old motorcyclist, fell into a two-meter deep construction pit and died. The site, near a petrol station on Highway 201, is undergoing sewer installation work. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351699-motorcyclist-dies-in-construction-pit-in-loei-accident/

Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A tragic accident occurred in Loei province last night when Adisak, a 41-year-old motorcyclist, fell into a two-meter deep construction pit and died. The site, near a petrol station on Highway 201, is undergoing sewer installation work. Witnesses called rescue volunteers, but Adisak was declared dead at Loei Hospital despite prompt assistance from the Ruamjai Rescuers Association. Local residents blame repeated accidents in the area on poor lighting, inadequate signage, and dust from construction, reducing visibility on Maliwan Road, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-13