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Police arrested a Thai monk for stealing Buddha statues and antiques from three temples in the northern province of Phitsanulok. The thief claimed he committed the theft for the first time because he needed money to fix his car. The Commander of Phitsanulok Provincial Police, Nikhom Kruenopparat, informed ThaiRath that on the evening of Tuesday, June 4, a 59 year-old monk named Boonshirt Klinyaem was apprehended at a resort in Phitsanulok. Subsequently, the Police escorted the monk to a nearby temple for a disrobing ceremony before interrogation. During their investigation, officers confiscated stolen Buddha statues and antiques from the resort, consisting of two Buddha statue heads, five Buddha statues, and Thai traditional ceramic ware known as Sangkhalok. Nikhom explained that Boonshirt committed the thefts on May 30. He drove his black Honda Accord sedan to the resort to change from his monk’s robe into ordinary clothes. He then went to the first temple, Wat Khuha Sawan, and stole a Phra Buddha Chinnarat statue. Boonshirt then moved to the second temple, Wat Tha Maprang, and stole another Phra Buddha Chinnarat statue. At the last temple, Wat Rat Burana, Boonshirt stole a Buddha statue along with Sangkhalok ceramic ware before returning to the resort. Each temple filed a report with the police, prompting officers to review security camera footage at each location to identify the thief. They successfully arrested Boonshirt at the resort. Boonshirt disclosed that he was a monk at Koh Mai Daeng Temple in the northern province of Sukhothai. He claimed that he needed money to fix his broken car and decided to steal the valuable statues and antiques to sell them online. Boonshirt insisted that this was his first offence and he had not yet sold the stolen objects. However, police were not convinced because two Buddha statue heads did not belong to the three temples. Police suspect Boonshirt may have committed previous crimes. Boonshirt was charged under Section 335 of the Criminal Law: committing theft at night. The penalty is imprisonment from one to five years and a fine from 20,000 to 100,000 baht. By Petch Petpailin Photo via TNews Source: The Thaiger 2024-06-06 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Mitsubishi Pajero crashes off bridge in Phatthalung, killing one Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A tragic accident occurred when a Mitsubishi Pajero lost control and plunged off a bridge, resulting in severe damage to the vehicle, leaving one person dead and two others injured. Police rushed to the scene on Ban Khu-Kong Ra Road, in Phatthalung Province, following the incident. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329063-mitsubishi-pajero-crashes-off-bridge-in-phatthalung-killing-one/

A tragic accident occurred when a Mitsubishi Pajero lost control and plunged off a bridge, resulting in severe damage to the vehicle, leaving one person dead and two others injured. Police rushed to the scene on Ban Khu-Kong Ra Road, in Phatthalung Province, following the incident. At 11.40pm yesterday, Phatthalung’s Kong Ra Police Station and emergency responders arrived at the accident site in Moo 4, Khlong Chalerm Subdistrict, Kong Ra District. The vehicle, a Mitsubishi Pajero with the licence plate 5973 Songkhla, had veered off the bridge and flipped onto its side in a roadside ditch. The car was found severely damaged, with three people trapped inside. Rescuers used hydraulic cutting tools to free the trapped individuals. They were identified as 55 year old Hronmin Wadthan, 63 year old Jutharat Saenwandi, and the driver, 59 year old Bubakard Yadee. All three were rushed to Kong Ra Hospital with serious injuries. Unfortunately, Bubakard Yadee succumbed to his injuries shortly after arriving at the hospital. Locals reported that the accident occurred at a curve in the road, leading to the vehicle losing control and crashing into the ditch. Residents nearby heard the crash and initially attempted to assist the victims before emergency services arrived, said one local. “We heard a loud crash and rushed to the scene. The car was in terrible shape, and we tried to help until the rescue team arrived.” The police are investigating to determine the precise cause of the accident. The curve in the road where the accident occurred is known to be hazardous, and it is suspected that the vehicle may have skidded off the road due to losing control, reported KhaoSod. By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-06-05 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai jail escapee accuses Indonesian cops of stealing diamond ring Photo via Facebook/ NationPhoto A notorious Thai prison escapee accused Indonesian police of stealing his diamond ring during his arrest in Bali after seven months on the run. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329062-thai-jail-escapee-accuses-indonesian-cops-of-stealing-diamond-ring/

A notorious Thai prison escapee accused Indonesian police of stealing his diamond ring during his arrest in Bali after seven months on the run. The infamous Chaowalit “Paeng” Thongduang, who escaped from custody during a dental appointment at Maharat Nakhon Si Thammarat Hospital on October 22, last year. Following his escape, he went live on social media, alleging mistreatment by officials, which he claimed prompted his decision to flee. After seven months on the run, Thai authorities and Indonesian police located the 37 year old in Medan City due to a dispute with an Indonesian lover. He was ultimately arrested in Bali on May 3. Chaowalit disclosed that he had been hiding in multiple countries before his apprehension. Chaowalit was extradited from Indonesia to the southern province of Nakhon Si Thammarat yesterday, June 4, via a flight from Jakarta International Airport. At the airport, Chaowalit assured a ThaiRath reporter that he would not escape again and was confident that authorities would treat him fairly. According to ThaiRath, Chaowalit informed the Thai authorities that his diamond ring went missing during his arrest and detention in Indonesia. Indonesian police denied the accusation, stating that they handed over all of Chaowalit’s belongings and valuables to Thai police. They maintain that no valuables were taken from the prisoner. As of now, Thai authorities have not yet clarified the situation regarding the missing ring to the public. Chaowalit was then transferred from Nakhon Si Thammarat to Bang Kwang Central Prison in Nonthaburi province near Bangkok. He departed via a flight to Don Mueang International Airport at 9am today, June 5, accompanied by four officers from the Hanuman Special Operations Unit to prevent any escape attempts. Chaowalit will be transferred to a prison with higher security measures and greater stability, such as Khao Bin Central Prison in Ratchaburi or Nakhon Si Thammarat Central Prison, where he was initially detained. By Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ NationPhoto Source: The Thaiger 2024-06-05 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai court remands Chaowalit after nine-hour interrogation Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Police have detained Chaowalit “Paeng” Thongduang, who remains resolute after nine hours of interrogation, denying all allegations against him. He was remanded by the Nakhon Si Thammarat Provincial Court before being flown to Bangkok. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329061-thai-court-remands-chaowalit-after-nine-hour-interrogation/

Police have detained Chaowalit “Paeng” Thongduang, who remains resolute after nine hours of interrogation, denying all allegations against him. He was remanded by the Nakhon Si Thammarat Provincial Court before being flown to Bangkok. Officers from Nakhon Si Thammarat City Police Station escorted Chaowalit from his cell to the provincial court early today, ensuring strict security throughout the journey. The court proceedings took approximately one hour, and by 9.03am, Chaowalit was transported to Nakhon Si Thammarat Airport to board a flight to Bangkok. Police Major General Somchai Suetortrakul, the Provincial Police Commander, confirmed that the interrogation concluded at 4am. Initially, local police conducted the questioning, followed by officers from Phatthalung Province who questioned Chaowalit in connection with three additional cases. During the questioning, Chaowalit provided limited information and did not exhibit signs of stress. His brother and two lawyers were present throughout the process. According to the police, Chaowalit exercised his right to remain silent and denied all charges, said Somchai. “Chaowalit denied all allegations and chose not to provide statements during the investigation, which is his legal right. Therefore, there was no need for further detainment for interrogation purposes.” At 8am, police sought the court’s permission to remand Chaowalit. Following the court’s approval, Chaowalit was handed over to the Department of Corrections, which arranged for his transfer to Bangkok. The Air Force’s C130 aircraft awaited him at Nakhon Si Thammarat Airport, reported KhaoSod. Diamond ring Reporters on the scene noted that after the interrogation ended at 4am, Chaowalit returned to his cell to rest, awaiting the court’s decision. The detention officers reported that Chaowalit appeared relaxed, even smiling, despite the exhaustion from the lengthy interrogation and travel. By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-06-05 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Jealous husband kills wife in Ayutthaya shooting spree Image courtesy of Khaosod A domestic dispute turned deadly when a jealous husband fired shots at his relatives yesterday, leaving one severely injured, before fatally shooting his wife in the head while they were playing games outside their home in Ayutthaya Province. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329060-jealous-husband-kills-wife-in-ayutthaya-shooting-spree/

A domestic dispute turned deadly when a jealous husband fired shots at his relatives yesterday, leaving one severely injured, before fatally shooting his wife in the head while they were playing games outside their home in Ayutthaya Province. The deceased has been identified as 42 year old Sukanya Yenbumrung, who was shot in the head. Another relative, 24 year old Noppadon Jantha, suffered severe injuries from gunshots to his head. The perpetrator, 30 year old Chanchai Khunthong, is the husband of the deceased. Relatives managed to apprehend him, ensuring he received a beating before handing him over to the police. The Thai police conducted a thorough examination of the crime scene. They found bloodstains on the floor and four .38 calibre bullet casings on the sofa. They also confiscated a .38 calibre handgun. Mother of the perpetrator, 48 year old Rofiyah Khunthong recounted hearing screams from her daughter-in-law being shot. She ran to the house and saw her son holding the gun. Attempts to restrain, and convince her son to put down the weapon were to no avail. He escaped, but only to be captured by his relatives. Rofiyah explained that the police arrived and took her son into custody, accompanied by his father, and transported him to the hospital. Meanwhile, her daughter-in-law lay in a pool of blood inside the house. Noppadon was found injured on the sofa. Relatives rushed both victims to Lad Bua Luang Hospital, where Sukanya was pronounced dead. Rofiyah suggested that jealousy was likely the motive, as her son was extremely possessive. She expressed bewilderment over why he would resort to shooting family members, given that there were no indications of infidelity. She described Sukanya as a good woman who worked as a childminder and seldom went out. Another relative, 26 year old Chaiya Jantha recounted the suddenness of the attack, noting that Chanchai said nothing before opening fire. After attempts to shoot two other relatives failed due to a weapon malfunction, Chanchai instead grabbed his wife and shot her in the head. Ayutthaya police have sent Sukanya’s body for a detailed autopsy at the Institute of Forensic Medicine in Pathum Thani Province. They have also summoned witnesses for questioning and detained the injured Chanchai at the hospital to proceed with legal action, reported Khaosod. By Ryan Turner Image courtesy of Khaosod Source: The Thaiger 2024-06-05 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Caterpillars chomp through 150-rai lotus pond in record time Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Millions of caterpillars devoured a 150-rai (approximately 60 hectares) lotus pond at Bueng Phra in Chokchai District, Nakhon Ratchasima, within two weeks. Experts identified the culprit as the Nhon Bung caterpillar, a type of moth larvae that prey on lotus plants. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329059-caterpillars-chomp-through-150-rai-lotus-pond-in-record-time/

Millions of caterpillars devoured a 150-rai (approximately 60 hectares) lotus pond at Bueng Phra in Chokchai District, Nakhon Ratchasima, within two weeks. Experts identified the culprit as the Nhon Bung caterpillar, a type of moth larvae that prey on lotus plants. What was once a picturesque lotus pond, brimming with vibrant pink blossoms just two months ago, has now turned into a brown, withered expanse. The transformation has shocked locals and visitors alike. Residents report that these caterpillars have ravaged the lotus leaves and flowers in less than two weeks. Thawatchai Kanpimai, a local fisherman, described the scene. “The lotuses that you see drying up across the pond are the work of a small caterpillar, about the size of a matchstick, with bristles all over its body.” Thawatchai mentioned that he frequently encounters these caterpillars while checking his fish traps in the pond, but they do not cause him any irritation. He noted that the caterpillars primarily target lotus and cattail plants around the pond and do not seem to affect other vegetation. This phenomenon is not entirely new to the area. According to locals, such outbreaks occur almost every year around this time. The caterpillars feed on the lotuses until they wither and turn brown. However, once the caterpillars have finished their cycle, new lotus leaves eventually grow back, restoring the pond to its former beauty. Caterpillar carnage Associate Professor Dr Jariya Roddee from the Department of Plant Production Technology at Suranaree University of Technology confirmed the identity of the caterpillars after examining images sent by reporters. “These are Nhon Bung caterpillars, also known in some regions as Bai Bua caterpillars. They are the larvae of nocturnal moths.” The adult moths lay their eggs on the lotus leaves, and once hatched, the larvae consume the leaves and flowers, leaving only the central veins intact. Dr Jariya outlined the lifecycle of these pests. After feeding, the caterpillars pupate and eventually emerge as adult moths, which then mate and lay eggs, continuing the cycle. She emphasised that the abundance of food sources accelerates the spread and damage caused by these caterpillars, making them difficult to control. Despite the extensive damage, Dr Jariya noted that the affected lotuses are capable of regenerating. In cultivated lotus fields, farmers often use chemical treatments to manage these pests. However, in public and natural water bodies like Bueng Phra, letting the natural cycle run its course might be the only option, reported KhaoSod. Environmental factors such as weather, humidity, and sustained high temperatures contribute to the rapid and extensive damage. The abundance of food sources also plays a crucial role in the caterpillars’ proliferation. By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-06-05 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Transport company accused of 10 million baht unpaid wages Image courtesy of Khaosod A prominent transport company in Thailand has come under fire for allegedly failing to pay over 100 subcontracted delivery drivers, with total unpaid wages amounting to more than 10 million baht. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329057-transport-company-accused-of-10-million-baht-unpaid-wages/

A prominent transport company in Thailand has come under fire for allegedly failing to pay over 100 subcontracted delivery drivers, with total unpaid wages amounting to more than 10 million baht. Some affected drivers, who had recently bought vehicles to undertake delivery work, have had to return them due to the financial strain from the unpaid wages. Today, June 5, more than ten delivery drivers convened near the Nakhon Ratchasima Provincial Hall to file complaints against the transport company. After assembling, the group proceeded to the Nakhon Ratchasima City Police Station, bringing along various pieces of evidence to support their case. According to the affected individuals, the transport company had entered into a contract with a well-known delivery service to handle parcel deliveries. However, instead of formalising contracts with the subcontracted drivers, the company failed to provide any legal agreements. In May, the group of subcontracted drivers began to demand their overdue payments from the company but received no clear response regarding the payment timeline. Fleeing from troubles Recently, the company shut down its office in Nakhon Ratchasima and ceased communication with the drivers. Some drivers even found themselves blocked on messaging platforms. Further investigations revealed that this was not the first instance of the company’s dubious behaviour. Similar incidents were reported in several provinces across the central and northeastern regions of Thailand, such as Nakhon Pathom, Chaiyaphum, Surin, Buriram, Sisaket, Khon Kaen, and Roi Et. It is estimated that the total number of affected drivers exceeds 100, with the collective unpaid wages surpassing 10 million baht. A former driver for the company, 27 year old Jutharat explained that she started working for the company in December last year, using a six-wheel truck. The company was supposed to pay her 52,000 baht per month but she only received 10,000 baht per month until March, totalling 30,000 baht. She further disclosed that she and many other subcontractors were unknowingly dismissed from their delivery routes. In the first wave of dismissals, about 30 to 40 drivers were affected, with unpaid wages totalling over 6 million baht. Delaying payments Another driver, 59 year old Saman, indicated that issues began three to four months ago when the company started delaying payments. By May, the company had still not paid the April wages, which were due by May 15. His attempts to contact the company were met with no response, and when a friend checked the company’s office, it was found to be closed. Saman is owed over 100,000 baht but despite filing complaints, he remains sceptical about recovering the lost money but urges authorities to shut down the company to prevent further scams, reported Khaosod. These revelations sparked a call for police and relevant agencies to take swift action against the transport company to protect other potential victims across the country. By Ryan Turner Image courtesy of Khaosod Source: The Thaiger 2024-06-05 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Carbon Tax to Start Taking Effect from 2025 File photo for reference only The government aims to establish a carbon tax by 2025 in its bid to combat climate change and endorse green practices. Ekniti Nitithanprapas, Director-General of the Excise Department, stated that the system for this tax will be formulated based on globally accepted methods and international norms. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329056-carbon-tax-to-start-taking-effect-from-2025/

The government aims to establish a carbon tax by 2025 in its bid to combat climate change and endorse green practices. Ekniti Nitithanprapas, Director-General of the Excise Department, stated that the system for this tax will be formulated based on globally accepted methods and international norms. Ekniti clarified that the carbon tax will be charged on emissions right at the source, beginning with oil products. The tax will come with a rate of 200 baht per metric tonne. Thailand is set to become the second country in ASEAN to introduce a carbon tax, following Singapore, demonstrating its dedication to environmental preservation and sustainable growth. The carbon tax will be included in the current oil tax framework, guaranteeing a revenue-neutral shift. The Excise Department reaffirmed that the tax will act as a driver for lowering carbon emissions and advocating for eco-conscious practices. The government has conducted measures to stimulate the expansion of electric vehicles (EVs), with sales showing a substantial boost of 685% in 2024. Furthermore, the department is considering differentiating battery tax rates. It plans to cut the tax rate for recycling, in an effort to motivate businesses to embrace green practices and contribute to a circular economy. File photo for reference only -- 2024-06-05 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Speaks About Concerns Regarding Rice Auction File photo for reference only The Ministry of Commerce has responded to worries about the rice auction that came from the rice-pledging scheme during the term of ex-Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329054-deputy-prime-minister-phumtham-speaks-about-concerns-regarding-rice-auction/

The Ministry of Commerce has responded to worries about the rice auction that came from the rice-pledging scheme during the term of ex-Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra. The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce, Phumtham Wechayachai, has assured the public that no issues exist. He has stressed that both Thai and international consumers are equally important. He revealed that the focus is not just on making money, but also on ensuring quality and responsibility. Right now, only 15,000 tons of rice are involved. Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham noted that there's interest in buying the rice, but didn't say whether it'll be sold in Thailand or abroad. He mentioned high demand for hard rice in Africa. In a meeting with African ambassadors, no one brought this up, reasserting that the quality of rice sold is always kept high. He showed confidence that Thai rice will continue to be popular, and assured that all steps are followed and buyers won't buy poor quality rice as they must preserve quality for their own people. Phumtham said the rice auction process has finished, and by the end of this month, all of the rice will be sold. This will ease worries about old rice stock from the last 10 to 20 years. File photo for reference only -- 2024-06-05 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand Set to Enforce Stricter Penalties for Drunk Driving File photo for reference only The government has made moves to increase punishments for drunk drivers who cause accidents and injuries. The Don't Drive Drunk Foundation (DDD) suggested stronger punishments for drink-drive offenses, presenting a petition to the committee reviewing changes to the Alcohol Control Act. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329052-thailand-set-to-enforce-stricter-penalties-for-drunk-driving/

The government has made moves to increase punishments for drunk drivers who cause accidents and injuries. The Don't Drive Drunk Foundation (DDD) suggested stronger punishments for drink-drive offenses, presenting a petition to the committee reviewing changes to the Alcohol Control Act. The petition suggests that outlets selling alcohol to minors who are then involved in fatal drink-driving incidents should face civil and criminal charges, have their license taken away, and be required to provide compensation to the victims. They also want these businesses to help set up a fund to support individuals affected by excessive alcohol consumption. The committee plans to present the petition to the House in their next session set for July. To strengthen the law and prevent corruption, the committee has sought advice from Pol Gen Achirawit Suwanpesat, a former assistant police chief. The 42-member committee is dedicated to creating solutions that bring noticeable benefits for everyone. The expected changes to the law should bring benefits to society in general, as the amendment enjoys support from several political groups and parties. Discussions will be held regarding the amendments and the needed private sector support with the Public Health Minister, Somsak Thepsutin. File photo for reference only -- 2024-06-05 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Milli's positive experience with ID card stirs up discussions on social media File photo for reference only Many people in Thailand are often hesitant to show their national ID cards due to reasons like the photo not representing them accurately or appearing distorted. The issue is that the officials taking these photos typically don't allow the individuals to review or retake the photos if they're dissatisfied. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329051-millis-positive-experience-with-id-card-stirs-up-discussions-on-social-media/

Many people in Thailand are often hesitant to show their national ID cards due to reasons like the photo not representing them accurately or appearing distorted. The issue is that the officials taking these photos typically don't allow the individuals to review or retake the photos if they're dissatisfied. This concern recently gained attention among Thai internet users after Thai rapper and singer, Danupha Khanatheerakul, popularly known as “Milli”, shared her experience of getting an ID card at the Bang Phlat district office on her social media account, @millimdk. She expressed delight over her ID photo, which she felt was nice because it showed her looking attractive with good lighting and hairstyle. Milli's post went viral, leading to many internet users expressing an interest in applying for their ID cards at the Bang Phlat district office. Capitalizing on this interest, the district office shared Milli’s post on its Facebook page. They invited individuals needing new ID cards, asking, “Does your identity card expire? If you want a nice photo, come to the Bang Phlat district office.” They added that their working hours are from 8 am to 4 pm, Monday through Friday. The post garnered many "likes" and positive comments from internet users. File photo for reference only -- 2024-06-05 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Cabinet Approves VAT on All Imports Exceeding 1 Baht File photo for reference only The Ministry of Finance has proposed adding a value-added tax (VAT) on all imported goods worth more than 1 baht. This proposal has been granted preliminary approval by the Cabinet. Aimed at controlling an influx of cheap imported goods, especially from China, this method is expected to create a more balanced market for local producers and importers. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329048-cabinet-approves-vat-on-all-imports-exceeding-1-baht/

The Ministry of Finance has proposed adding a value-added tax (VAT) on all imported goods worth more than 1 baht. This proposal has been granted preliminary approval by the Cabinet. Aimed at controlling an influx of cheap imported goods, especially from China, this method is expected to create a more balanced market for local producers and importers. Government spokesperson, Chai Wacharonke, announced that this new rule will be in effect 15 days from its publication in the Royal Gazette, until December 31. The government will then assess the impact of this policy before deciding on whether it should be extended. Currently, the VAT is only collected on imported goods valued at over 1,500 baht. This has been the case since 2018. Instituting this new rule is a part of the government's larger effort to make the marketplace fair for local businesses. Chai said that local businesses, especially online sellers, have suffered due to the inflow of cheap products. As a result, their earnings have decreased significantly. The government is considering changing the Revenue Code to provide a long-term solution to this issue. Paul Srivorakul, the Chief Executive of e-commerce platform aCommerce, stated that implementing VAT ensures all goods are taxed uniformly, no matter where they are from. This makes the competition fairer for local products and domestic businesses, and could increase government revenue through both import duties and VAT. However, Paul also warned that new duties on low-value goods could complicate customs procedures, slowing down the import process and affecting businesses that rely on imported products. The e-commerce sector, especially those profiting from the sale of low-cost imported goods, could be impacted by this new VAT rule. Even so, Paul believes the benefits to local small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and the Thai economy outweigh the effects on Chinese e-commerce platforms. Several industries, including the steel sector, are feeling the effects of an overflow of Chinese goods in the market. Instead of importing Chinese steel to sell in Thailand, Chinese entrepreneurs are now setting up their own steel-making factories in Thailand. Aat Pisanwanich, an independent analyst on international trade, warns that unless more measures are put in place to support Thai entrepreneurs, they may disappear altogether within the next five years. File photo for reference only -- 2024-06-05 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Architecture Receives Second Highest Award in Asia File photo for reference only Thailand's architecture secured second place in a list of Asia's best architectural countries, according to a May 26 publication on American financial site. The website explored various Asian architectural styles and their global value, emphasizing their unique fusion of modern design and traditional methods. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329046-thai-architecture-receives-second-highest-award-in-asia/

Thailand's architecture secured second place in a list of Asia's best architectural countries, according to a May 26 publication on American financial site. The website explored various Asian architectural styles and their global value, emphasizing their unique fusion of modern design and traditional methods. China came out on top, with the Palace Museum of the Forbidden City as its most notable architectural feature. Thailand's ranking was achieved mainly because of two highly-rated spots on Trip Advisor: Jim Thompson House in Bangkok and the Sanctuary of Truth in Pattaya. Thailand's Minister of Tourism and Sports, Sermsak Pongpanit, was happy about Thailand's strong position. He stated the ministry would conduct surveys at numerous tourist sites to enhance and market them. He also expressed confidence in Thailand's tourism growth, referencing the 14 million tourists received between January 1 and June 2. The top five countries where these tourists came from were China, Malaysia, India, Russia, and South Korea. The full list of countries and the architectural sites that made them stand out are as follows: 1. China – Palace Museum of the Forbidden City 2. Thailand – Jim Thompson House and the Sanctuary of Truth 3. Japan – Toranomon Hills and Kobelco Power Moka 4. Malaysia – Petronas Twin Towers 5. India – Taj Mahal 6. Hong Kong – Tian Tan Buddha 7. Macau – Ruins of St Paul's Cathedral, Macau Tower, and the Grand Lisboa 8. Vietnam – Calm Casamia Community House, Bat Trang Pottery Museum, and Lung Vai School 9. South Korea – N Seoul Tower, Gyeongbokgung museums, and Changdeokgung Palace 10. Taiwan – Taipei 101 File photo for reference only -- 2024-06-05 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe