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Photo via Facebook/ เฮียขับรถ In Pathum Thani, central Thailand, a severe road rage incident involving a local political figure's son has captivated public attention and sparked outrage. On 16th April, dashcam footage spread across social media showed a white BMW sedan forcing a black pickup truck into a violent crash on a motorway. The footage was shared by the Facebook page Here on Board, illuminating an altercation that has left one man severely injured. The video reveals a distressing sequence: a brand new BMW aggressively weaving through traffic, targeting the pickup truck driven by an elderly man. The confrontation originally erupted at a toll gate when the BMW driver, reportedly the son of an influential local politician and a candidate in the upcoming local government elections, attempted to cut in line. The pickup driver, refusing to concede, spurred the ire of the BMW driver. Witnesses reported that despite the pickup driver’s subsequent apology for the toll gate disagreement, the BMW driver disregarded this gesture of reconciliation. The footage distinctly shows the BMW persistently tailing the pickup, ultimately side-swiping it and causing the pickup to lose control and slam into a traffic barrier, inflicting serious injuries upon its driver. The elderly pickup driver sustained broken ribs and is currently receiving treatment in the intensive care unit (ICU). His wife, who was also in the vehicle, suffered minor injuries. In stark contrast, the BMW driver emerged from the incident physically unscathed and exited his vehicle without delay. Esor News further revealed additional dashcam evidence, highlighting the BMW’s reckless driving just before the collision. Another motorist captured the BMW travelling at excessive speeds, swerving recklessly, and narrowly avoiding a crash with a footpath, corroborating claims of dangerous driving leading up to the crash. The public outcry has been immediate and fierce, especially given the political nuances surrounding the BMW driver. As the son of a significant political figure in Pathum Thani, and a candidate himself, the incident has entered the realm of political discourse, prompting calls for transparency and justice. Local authorities have yet to issue a formal statement regarding potential charges or legal actions against the BMW driver, fuelling further frustration and the perception of preferential treatment due to his political ties. Social media platforms are rife with demands for accountability, with residents vocalising concerns over safety and questioning the integrity of local leadership. This incident, while deeply personal for those directly involved, touches on broader social issues within the region, casting a spotlight on road safety, ethical behaviour, and the influence of political connections in judicial proceedings. As the story unfolds, the community remains vigilant, eager for a resolution that upholds justice and deters future misconduct, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-17

Naked Man Stirs Phuket Market, Raises Mental Health Concerns Pictures courtesy of The Phuket News In a surprising turn of events, shoppers at a Phuket market were greeted by an unexpected sight yesterday morning as a naked man casually wandered the bustling streets in the Tha Ruea area. The incident unfolded near a fresh market and the Bangkok Bank branch, sparking discussions among startled onlookers. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1358017-naked-man-stirs-phuket-market-raises-mental-health-concerns/

Pictures courtesy of The Phuket News In a surprising turn of events, shoppers at a Phuket market were greeted by an unexpected sight yesterday morning as a naked man casually wandered the bustling streets in the Tha Ruea area. The incident unfolded near a fresh market and the Bangkok Bank branch, sparking discussions among startled onlookers. The man, appearing to be between 25 and 30 years old, walked uninhibited in the direction of the Heroines Monument. Sa, a local vendor, recounted, "He didn’t cause any trouble, just walked as if nothing was amiss." Witnesses noted the man was clean and groomed, though his peculiar behaviour prompted concerns over his mental health or possible intoxication. The village headman, Noppharit Rungruang, along with local security and police from Thalang Station, responded swiftly to the scene. They encountered the man walking against traffic, still nude and incoherent. An officer stated, "He couldn’t tell us his name. We suspect intoxication or mental issues." Believed to be a middle-aged Myanmar national, his identity remains unconfirmed. Police detained the man without trouble, escorting him to Thalang Police Station for further investigation. Authorities are diligently working to contact his employer and verify his immigration status before proceeding with any legal or medical measures. Local social media buzzed with mixed reactions—concern for the man's health and shock at the public nudity. Police have urged the public to report similar incidents and affirmed they are handling the case with proper care, prioritising the man’s well-being while probing for any additional needs, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-17

Drunk Tourist Turns Pattaya Street into Vehicular Mayhem Picture courtesy of Channel 3 News In a bizarre turn of events early this morning, a Chinese tourist, Wang Yunbin, created a scene of vehicular chaos on Pattaya's Third Road. The 32-year-old, visibly intoxicated, lost control of his black pickup truck, smashing it into parked motorbikes and a car before vomiting and passing out behind the wheel. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1358016-drunk-tourist-turns-pattaya-street-into-vehicular-mayhem/

Picture courtesy of Channel 3 News In a bizarre turn of events early this morning, a Chinese tourist, Wang Yunbin, created a scene of vehicular chaos on Pattaya's Third Road. The 32-year-old, visibly intoxicated, lost control of his black pickup truck, smashing it into parked motorbikes and a car before vomiting and passing out behind the wheel. The incident occurred around 4:30 am on April 17th, with Pattaya Police responding to frantic reports of the multi-vehicle collision in Soi Chalermprakiat 21. Upon arrival, officers discovered the engine of the wrecked pickup still running and Wang slumped inside, struggling to stay awake. Two motorbikes were toppled over on the road next to a blue car that sustained rear damage. Despite the scene of destruction, the vehicle owners were not immediately present. Bystanders reported Wang's failed attempt to escape, which led to further collision with the already-damaged car, leaving his own truck worse for wear. In a shocking display, Wang exited his vehicle, vomited on the spot, and subsequently tried to continue driving. His futile efforts to sober up by forcibly vomiting again through the window added a surreal twist to the drama. The police managed to rouse Wang from his stupor, noting his disoriented attempts to contact someone. Taken to the station for a breathalyser test, Wang now faces legal repercussions for his actions. Authorities are also on the lookout for the owners of the damaged vehicles to include them in the ongoing investigation, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-17

Drunken Assault Shocks Pattaya as Tourist Attacked Unprovoked Picture courtesy of Expedia In the early hours of April 17th, a Pakistani tourist's peaceful morning walk on Pattaya Klang Beach took a shocking turn when he was assaulted without reason by an intoxicated Thai man. The incident unfolded at 4:40 am, leaving the 35-year-old visitor, Mohammad Iqbal, stunned and bleeding. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1358015-drunken-assault-shocks-pattaya-as-tourist-attacked-unprovoked/

Picture courtesy of Expedia In the early hours of April 17th, a Pakistani tourist's peaceful morning walk on Pattaya Klang Beach took a shocking turn when he was assaulted without reason by an intoxicated Thai man. The incident unfolded at 4:40 am, leaving the 35-year-old visitor, Mohammad Iqbal, stunned and bleeding. Iqbal was merely enjoying Pattaya's vibrant atmosphere when the attacker, a 31-year-old local identified as Thana, approached him and punched him in the face, injuring his lip. Thankfully, a fellow Pakistani tourist quickly restrained Thana until the police arrived. When officers questioned Thana, he openly confessed to the unprovoked attack, attributing his behaviour to intoxication from "downing a small bottle of white liquor." Witnesses claimed the man, known in the area for his disruptive antics, was gathering bottles along the beach before the surprising assault. Despite Thana's pleas for lenience, the authorities seemed unmoved, given his extensive criminal record. Investigations revealed his long-standing history of petty offences and violent conduct, often leading to numerous arrests and imprisonments. Locals described Thana as a regular nuisance, known for troubling tourists and residents alike. Police have now detained him for further questioning and plan to press new charges, reaffirming Pattaya's commitment to ensuring safety for all its visitors, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-17

Thailand’s Songkran: 200 Deaths Mark '7 Dangerous Days' of Festival File photo for reference only As Thailand's Songkran festival, the traditional Thai New Year, unfolds, the joyous celebration has been overshadowed by a grim reality. The Road Safety Centre reports that the death toll has climbed to 200, with over 1,300 injuries during the first six days of the festival, putting a spotlight on the country's persistent road safety challenges. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1358014-thailand’s-songkran-200-deaths-mark-7-dangerous-days-of-festival/

File photo for reference only As Thailand's Songkran festival, the traditional Thai New Year, unfolds, the joyous celebration has been overshadowed by a grim reality. The Road Safety Centre reports that the death toll has climbed to 200, with over 1,300 injuries during the first six days of the festival, putting a spotlight on the country's persistent road safety challenges. The yearly "Seven Dangerous Days" campaign, spanning April 11 to 16, recorded a troubling 1,377 road accidents, with speeding and motorcyclists featuring prominently in these incidents. The Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Interior Ministry, Kachorn Srichavanothai, conveyed these unsettling figures at a press briefing, revealing that on April 16 alone, 155 accidents resulted in 22 fatalities and 149 injuries. The bulk of these incidents are linked to motorcycles, prompting authorities to intensify efforts at checkpoints to ensure helmet compliance. "Although many have returned to work, others are still travelling back from holiday destinations. We will continue strict enforcement," Kachorn emphasised. A detailed breakdown reveals Lampang bore the brunt of accidents and injuries yesterday, recording nine of each. In contrast, provinces like Khon Kaen, Chaiyaphum, Pathum Thani, Ang Thong, and Phetchaburi each reported two deaths, marking them as particularly hazardous stretches. Across the entire period from April 11 to 16, Bangkok reported the highest death toll with 16 fatalities, while Phatthalung recorded the most accidents at 52. Lampang, again, reported the highest number of injuries, tallying up to 56. While the figures are concerning, there is a silver lining with 15 provinces recording zero fatalities, suggesting certain regions have managed to bolster road safety effectively. Saharat Wongsakulwiwat, Deputy Director General of the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation, issued a reminder to motorists to rest adequately and ensure their vehicles are in safe condition before hitting the road. "Fatigue and mechanical failures are a deadly combination," he warned, urging drivers to remain vigilant. With one final day of Songkran travel ahead, authorities are on high alert. The overarching message is one of caution: "Drive safely, slow down, and keep your wits about you," officials urge, hoping to prevent further additions to the somber statistics. As the Songkran festival draws to its close, the recent tragedies serve as a poignant reminder of the pressing need for improved road safety measures in Thailand. The festive season's dual nature—as a time of both celebration and danger—continues to call for vigilant action from both officials and the public alike, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-17

File photo for reference only In Hà Nam Province, a medical worker has been taken into custody on allegations of sexually assaulting a female patient at the Hà Nội - Đồng Văn General Hospital in Duy Tiên Town. The arrest of Vũ Duy Cương, 34, follows a complaint lodged on Monday, according to local police reports. The incident reportedly occurred during a medical examination, sparking widespread outrage, particularly on social media. A Facebook post, believed to be from the victim, described the event as an extremely traumatic experience. While details are still emerging, unverified claims online suggest that the assault may have taken place during a sedated stomach endoscopy. Authorities remain actively involved in the investigation, working to gather all necessary evidence to support potential legal proceedings. The case has drawn significant attention, highlighting concerns about patient safety and the need for stringent safeguards in medical settings. The response on social media reflects widespread anger and concern over the incident, as the community awaits further developments in the investigation, reported Vietnam News. -- 2025-04-16

File photo for reference only In a significant policy shift aimed at increasing flexibility and international collaboration within its aviation sector, Vietnam has announced a new government decree allowing a broader array of aircraft types to be imported. This decision marks a departure from previous restrictions and opens up opportunities for Vietnamese airlines to operate a wider variety of aircraft. Under the new decree, aircraft certified by several international aviation authorities, including the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), and other global agencies from Brazil, Canada, Russia, the U.K., China, and Vietnam, are now eligible for import. This is a notable expansion from the earlier rule, established in 2016 and amended in 2019, which restricted imports to aircraft certified only by the FAA, EASA, or Vietnamese authorities. The Ministry of Construction underscores that the previous limitations hindered Vietnamese airlines from accessing diverse aircraft models designed by nations with advanced technological capabilities. The ministry believes these amendments will empower Vietnamese airlines by providing greater access to innovative aircraft, thereby facilitating more efficient aircraft procurement and operations management. By broadening its certification acceptance list, Vietnam aims to bolster its aviation industry's international cooperation and strengthen ties with global partners, fostering growth and advancement in the nation's aviation capabilities. This development is expected to enhance Vietnamese airlines' competitiveness and operational flexibility on the global stage, reported VN Express. -- 2025-04-16

File photo for reference only In an innovative step towards bilingual education, Ho Chi Minh City has undertaken a major English proficiency evaluation for its public school teachers. This extensive assessment, the largest of its kind in Vietnam, will involve approximately 47,000 educators from primary to high school levels. The city's Department of Education and Training announced that the assessment will occur between April 23 and 29, designed to evaluate teachers' English skills in listening, reading, and writing. The test will adhere to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) standards, ensuring a consistent and internationally recognized measure of language ability. This initiative aims to provide a clear picture of current English language competencies among Ho Chi Minh City's teachers. The results will be pivotal in shaping future training programs and could support initiatives to adopt English as a second language in Vietnamese schools, enhancing the country's educational framework. Similar assessments have been conducted in other regions like Hanoi and Nghe An, where teachers' skills have been measured using tests such as IELTS and TOEIC. This nationwide shift towards enhancing English proficiency represents Vietnam's commitment to integrating English more deeply into its educational system, equipping both teachers and students with essential skills for the global stage, reported VN Express. -- 2025-04-16

File photo for reference only Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) has witnessed a significant increase in passenger volumes during the first days of the Holy Week, with operations remaining efficient despite the surge. According to New NAIA Infra Corp. (NNIC), the private operator, the airport recorded 150,511 passengers on Palm Sunday, April 13, an 11.77% rise from last year's figures. Holy Monday and Tuesday similarly saw jumps in passenger numbers, with 142,560 and 140,407 people, respectively, marking significant increases from last year's statistics. Overall, the three-day period logged 433,478 passengers. Predicted to attract over 1.18 million travelers by Easter Sunday, April 20, this represents a 14% increase from last year’s 1.04 million. Despite the high volume, NNIC reports that operations have run smoothly, thanks to several measures implemented to handle the influx efficiently. The Bureau of Immigration has played a key role by deploying additional officers across terminals, easing congestion and facilitating faster passenger processing. Further, NNIC has assigned more traffic personnel to manage vehicle flow and has opened assistance booths manned by airport personnel, medical teams, and officers to support passengers. Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon inspected NAIA Terminal 3 early on Tuesday, observing efficient processing during peak departure hours. His feedback aligns with monitoring reports indicating that passenger flow remains steady and that the responsive measures continue to perform as planned. NNIC President Ramon S. Ang expressed gratitude for the coordinated efforts of various authorities, including the Manila International Airport Authority, the Department of Transportation’s Office for Transportation Security, and the Philippine National Police Aviation Security Group. He also acknowledged the hard work of airport staff and frontline workers for their dedication during this busy period. The growth in passenger numbers at NAIA signifies rising travel demand, which positively impacts sectors such as tourism, hospitality, and retail, thereby boosting the national economy and strengthening the wider workforce, reported Manila Bulletin. -- 2025-04-16

File photo for reference only Baseco Beach in Manila has been temporarily closed for swimming and other water activities following a declaration by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) deeming the waters unsafe due to high pollution levels. Recent water quality tests revealed that fecal coliform levels have surpassed safe thresholds, posing significant health risks to the public. In response, authorities have banned swimming, bathing, and other recreational activities until further notice. Despite the holiday season attracting crowds, the DENR, along with local government units (LGUs), has implemented strict measures to enforce the ban. Warning signs and barriers have been erected along the shoreline, and personnel are on hand to inform visitors of the potential health hazards. The DENR urges the public to adhere to safety advisories while cleanup and rehabilitation efforts are ongoing. The agency has highlighted the critical need to address pollution sources, such as untreated sewage and improper waste disposal, which continue to affect Manila Bay and its surrounding coastal regions. Baseco Beach, a favored spot for local residents due to its accessible location, remains open for activities like sightseeing and walking along the shore, although water entry is strictly prohibited. The Manila city government, through its Department of Public Services (DPS), has reiterated its commitment to keeping the area clean as part of the broader Manila Bay rehabilitation initiative. Cleanup operations continue, but there is no definite timeline for when Baseco Beach will reopen for swimming. Authorities emphasize the importance of sustained efforts to restore the quality of the beach and its waters, ensuring the safety and enjoyment of future visitors, reported Manila Bulletin. -- 2025-04-16

File photo for reference only In a recent Palace briefing, National Food Authority (NFA) Administrator Larry Lacson announced that the Department of Agriculture (DA), led by Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr., has increased the availability of P29 per kilo rice for poor and vulnerable households across the Philippines. The initiative allows households to purchase up to 30 kilos of affordable rice per month, rising from the previous limit of 10 kilos. This measure is part of the DA's efforts to extend the reach of its budget-friendly rice program by opening additional Kadiwa stores nationwide. These stores serve as key distribution points for the low-priced rice, originally launched in a large-scale trial last year aimed at supporting around 6.9 million vulnerable households, equivalent to about 35 million Filipinos. The P29 per kilo rice, sourced from aging NFA stocks, is distributed to various beneficiaries, including those supported by the government's Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps). This program targets the nation’s poorest families, offering conditional cash grants to enhance children’s health, nutrition, and education. In addition to the P29 rice initiative, the government is introducing P33 per kilo rice to Kadiwa outlets in resettlement sites for public housing beneficiaries, thus reinforcing its commitment to food security. Joeben Tai, General Manager of the National Housing Authority (NHA), confirmed that from April onwards, Kadiwa stores will sell P33 per kilo rice in these housing locations, with plans to expand store presence further across the country until May 2025. By broadening the scope of affordable rice programs, the government aims to alleviate financial burdens on disadvantaged households and stabilize food supply, as part of its broader social welfare and food security objectives, reported Manila Bulletin. -- 2025-04-16

Nakhon Ratchasima Faces Waste Crisis as Military Halts Disposal Photo via KhaoSod In Nakhon Ratchasima, a mounting waste crisis has led to the military ordering the cessation of waste disposal at a key facility, impacting 34 local administrative organisations. The rubbish disposal site in Mueang district, particularly Zone C of the landfill, has become overwhelmed, far exceeding its capacity with a backlog reaching over 334,863 tonnes—well above the agreed limit of 200,000 tonnes. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1357918-nakhon-ratchasima-faces-waste-crisis-as-military-halts-disposal/

Photo via KhaoSod In Nakhon Ratchasima, a mounting waste crisis has led to the military ordering the cessation of waste disposal at a key facility, impacting 34 local administrative organisations. The rubbish disposal site in Mueang district, particularly Zone C of the landfill, has become overwhelmed, far exceeding its capacity with a backlog reaching over 334,863 tonnes—well above the agreed limit of 200,000 tonnes. The Second Army Area's ban on dumping began on April 11, a necessary measure due to the accumulation exceeding both the permissible tonnage and the 2.5-metre height threshold. Previously, temporary extensions and relaxed conditions were granted, but the continuous buildup of waste has resulted in significant adverse effects on nearby communities, with reports of unpleasant odours and wastewater negatively impacting residents' health. The 34 affected organisations have asked Nakhon Ratchasima Governor Chaiwat Chuenkosum for immediate assistance. They propose a range of solutions, including auctioning the waste for conversion into refuse-derived fuel and intermittently storing waste in Zone B. This zone has been permitted to accommodate up to 350 tonnes daily until April 21, with complete clearance expected by April 30. To prevent illegal dumping, military personnel are vigilantly monitoring Zone C, with temporary adjustments allowing for waste storage in Zone B. Meanwhile, the average daily waste has reduced to 350 tonnes, thanks to a strong emphasis on the 3R measures (reduce, reuse, recycle) advocated by Kampanat Butto, Deputy Permanent Secretary of Nakhon Ratchasima Municipality. Plans are underway to involve private enterprises in purchasing the accumulated waste, a move expected to alleviate the burden on local facilities once regular municipal operations resume. However, the crisis has already severely impacted local communities. Residents, such as those in Ban Nong Pling Mai, led by community leader Jamlong Mahingsadej, have been suffering from respiratory issues due to lingering odours and polluted water, which has also damaged local aquatic ecosystems. The situation calls for urgent coordinated efforts to manage waste effectively, protect public health, and ensure sustainable waste management practices are in place to prevent future crises, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-16

Death Toll at Bangkok Building Collapse Hits 44 Amid Ongoing Recovery File photo for reference only Tragedy continues to unfold at the collapsed State Audit Office site in Bangkok’s Chatuchak district, where the official death toll has risen to 44 as recovery efforts persist. On Monday night, workers discovered two more bodies and numerous human remains amidst the rubble, bringing the grim total to 44 confirmed dead as of Tuesday morning. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1357917-death-toll-at-bangkok-building-collapse-hits-44-amid-ongoing-recovery/

File photo for reference only Tragedy continues to unfold at the collapsed State Audit Office site in Bangkok’s Chatuchak district, where the official death toll has risen to 44 as recovery efforts persist. On Monday night, workers discovered two more bodies and numerous human remains amidst the rubble, bringing the grim total to 44 confirmed dead as of Tuesday morning. Deputy Bangkok Governor Tavida Kamolvej reported the findings, with forensic police working to identify the remains. As of now, nine survivors have been identified, while 50 others remain missing. Families of 91 individuals have provided DNA samples to assist in the identification process of the deceased, injured, and those still unaccounted for. Efforts are also underway to gather DNA samples from individuals near the Myanmar-Thai border, facilitated by the Myanmar embassy, as Thai officials intensify efforts to identify additional victims. The collapse, caused by the 7.7-magnitude Myanmar earthquake on March 28, brought down the 30-storey State Audit Office headquarters, the only building in Bangkok to succumb to the tremors. The rescue teams face significant challenges, with steel rods hindering access to some of the bodies. The Interior Ministry is offering 100,000 baht in funeral support for each deceased victim. Investigations involving multiple government organisations are ongoing, as officials scrutinise the collapse's causes and evaluate the credentials of building contractors and the quality of construction materials used. Excavators are actively working at the site, as teams continue to search through the debris. This tragedy underscores the urgent need for thorough building safety assessments and stringent construction standards to prevent future calamities, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-04-16

As Toll from Bangkok Building Collapse Hits 44, Families Offered Aid Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post The tragic collapse of the State Audit Office building in Bangkok's Chatuchak district has claimed 44 lives, with the death toll still rising as rescue teams work tirelessly to locate those still missing. The Interior Ministry has pledged 100,000 baht compensation to each victim's family, with payouts starting this Friday. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1357916-as-toll-from-bangkok-building-collapse-hits-44-families-offered-aid/

Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post The tragic collapse of the State Audit Office building in Bangkok's Chatuchak district has claimed 44 lives, with the death toll still rising as rescue teams work tirelessly to locate those still missing. The Interior Ministry has pledged 100,000 baht compensation to each victim's family, with payouts starting this Friday. Since the building's collapse on March 28, rescuers have been combing through the wreckage, concentrated on Zone C where it is believed most victims are trapped. As of April 15, nine individuals had been injured and 50 remained unaccounted for from the initial 103 reported present at the disaster site. Deputy Bangkok Governor Tavida Kamolvej and Disaster Prevention and Mitigation head Suriyachai Rawiwan provided updates on the ongoing rescue efforts. Overnight operations recently uncovered two more bodies, along with 24 human remains sent for forensic examination. A further victim was identified via DNA yesterday morning, confirming the death toll at 44. Authorities have collected DNA from 91 relatives to aid this meticulous identification process. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in cooperation with embassies and border points, is especially focused on identifying individuals from Myanmar feared dead. The search and recovery operation is using heavy machinery, search dogs, and pauses to allow hounds to sniff potential survivors or remains amidst the debris of concrete and steel. The committed compensation of 100,000 baht per victim is unconditional, Tavida assured, "There are no extra conditions, this is support for every life lost." In addition to compensation, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has reported that 23,888 individuals have sought earthquake-related aid, predominantly from Chatuchak district. Inspections began on April 10, urging residents away for Songkran to contact local offices promptly to file their damage claims before the April 27 deadline. As rescue and aid efforts continue, local committees with the BMA’s Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Department are processing support applications, ensuring all affected receive necessary assistance, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-16

Thai Police Upgrade Cybercrime Fight with Israeli Digital Forensics Picture courtesy of Israel21c The Royal Thai Police (RTP) are stepping up their cybercrime defence with cutting-edge Israeli technology to effectively tackle digital fraud. Armed with digital forensic tools from the Israeli firm Cellebrite, the RTP are now better equipped to extract critical data from phones, helping them swiftly crack down on online criminals. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1357915-thai-police-upgrade-cybercrime-fight-with-israeli-digital-forensics/

Picture courtesy of Israel21c The Royal Thai Police (RTP) are stepping up their cybercrime defence with cutting-edge Israeli technology to effectively tackle digital fraud. Armed with digital forensic tools from the Israeli firm Cellebrite, the RTP are now better equipped to extract critical data from phones, helping them swiftly crack down on online criminals. More than 100 officers have undergone training in the use of this advanced technology, which was showcased at a Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) ceremony on March 21. Cellebrite's technology is already making waves worldwide, supporting police in handling everything from call centre scams to international crime syndicates. Inspector General Thatchai Pitaneelaboot emphasised the importance of such sophisticated tools, given the audacity of modern scammers. “We need digital evidence that can’t be disputed to bring these criminals to justice,” he asserted. RTP’s new capabilities allow investigators to retrieve, analyse, and present mobile data in court. This is anticipated to be a game changer in prosecuting online offenders, making it nearly impossible for suspects to contest digital evidence. CIB Commissioner Jirabhop Bhuridej noted that the integration of this technology aligns Thai police with global standards in cyber forensics, enhancing their adaptability to the rapidly evolving landscape of digital crime. Officers from 16 divisions have been trained, including 20 professional users, 50 advanced operators, and 940 basic users, ensuring widespread competence in harnessing this technology. The initiative also represents a positive step in international collaboration, with Israeli ambassador to Thailand Orna Sagiv praising the partnership as a great example of technology being leveraged to protect society from digital threats. This technological boost positions the RTP more effectively in its mission to safeguard Thailand against the burgeoning threat of cybercrime, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-16

Thailand Surpasses Malaysia in Competitiveness - But Challenges Persist Picture courtesy of Competitive Intelligence Agency Thailand has achieved a significant milestone by surpassing Malaysia in the IMD World Competitiveness Centre’s global rankings for the first time in a decade, now positioned as the second most competitive nation in Southeast Asia behind Singapore. Despite this accomplishment, experts caution that Thailand’s ascent may be fleeting due to persistent structural issues, insufficient budget allocations, and a lack of a strategic long-term vision. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1357914-thailand-surpasses-malaysia-in-competitiveness-but-challenges-persist/

Picture courtesy of Competitive Intelligence Agency Thailand has achieved a significant milestone by surpassing Malaysia in the IMD World Competitiveness Centre’s global rankings for the first time in a decade, now positioned as the second most competitive nation in Southeast Asia behind Singapore. Despite this accomplishment, experts caution that Thailand’s ascent may be fleeting due to persistent structural issues, insufficient budget allocations, and a lack of a strategic long-term vision. According to the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC), while Thailand has made notable progress, its high-tech export performance continues to lag behind countries like Vietnam, signaling the need for urgent innovation and digital advancement. The report highlights that although awareness of these challenges has been present for years, investment to address them has in fact decreased. The share of the national budget devoted to enhancing competitiveness has dwindled from 16.1% in 2018 to just 9.7% by 2025. In contrast, spending on social equity programs, such as universal healthcare and education, has significantly increased, consuming 24.7% of the 2025 budget, while the costs associated with state operations and debt servicing have grown to 18.5%. Dr Nonarit Bisonyabut from the Thailand Development Research Institute pointed out that nearly 70% of the national budget is locked in salaries, debt servicing, and welfare, leaving limited funds for essential development and investment activities. He advocates for a budget overhaul, proposing a move towards a zero-based budgeting system, where each expense must be annually justified. However, he advises that this could disrupt ongoing projects and instead suggests a balanced strategy that accommodates existing projects while fostering opportunities for high-impact initiatives. Thailand’s economic strategy has been criticised for its lack of focus, unlike Malaysia’s semiconductor industry specialisation or Vietnam’s strategic integration into South Korea’s supply chains. Experts recommend shifting away from broad policies towards investment in specific high-return sectors, which could initially be costly but offer substantial long-term benefits. The IMD World Competitiveness Ranking, which evaluates nations on economic performance, government efficiency, business efficiency, and infrastructure, placed Singapore at the top globally in 2024, with Thailand ranking second in Southeast Asia, followed by Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines. The NESDC warns that Thailand needs to enhance efforts in emerging industries, agricultural technology, and domestic value chain management to maintain its competitive position. Additional looming challenges include an ageing population, skill mismatches, lack of innovation, and sluggish public sector reform. With Thailand's improved standing on the global stage, the focus shifts to whether the nation can sustain this competitive edge by addressing these pivotal challenges head-on, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-16