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Bangkok Offers Waste Collection Discounts for Sorting Food Scraps File photo for reference only In a bid to encourage better waste management, households in six Bangkok districts can soon enjoy a discount on their rubbish collection fees by sorting their food scraps separately from general waste. This initiative, announced by Pornphrom Vikitsreth, an adviser to the Bangkok governor, aims to incentivise residents to adopt cleaner waste disposal habits, especially with the upcoming increase in rubbish collection fees set for October. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1357524-bangkok-offers-waste-collection-discounts-for-sorting-food-scraps/

File photo for reference only In a bid to encourage better waste management, households in six Bangkok districts can soon enjoy a discount on their rubbish collection fees by sorting their food scraps separately from general waste. This initiative, announced by Pornphrom Vikitsreth, an adviser to the Bangkok governor, aims to incentivise residents to adopt cleaner waste disposal habits, especially with the upcoming increase in rubbish collection fees set for October. Starting April 21, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) will initiate food waste collection in the districts of Bang Phlat, Bang Kho Laem, Lat Phrao, Phaya Thai, Thon Buri, and Lat Krabang. Residents interested in participating can register through the BKK Waste Pay mobile application. Successfully registered households will receive green waste bags specifically for food scraps. The BMA's Environment Department, alongside local officials in the participating districts, will assess the effectiveness of the project before considering its extension to other areas of the city. Food waste collection will occur two to three times a week, offering a convenient solution for those committed to this eco-friendly practice. In addition to the discount incentive, the BMA is also promoting the reuse of food waste as animal feed or fertiliser, further enhancing the environmental benefits of this initiative. By taking part in this programme, residents can contribute to reducing landfill waste while enjoying savings on collection fees, aligning with broader sustainability goals in Bangkok, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-04-11

Chiang Mai Faces Severe Air Pollution, Ranks Ninth Globally File photo for reference only Chiang Mai Municipality has been ranked as the ninth most polluted city worldwide, with an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 147, according to data from IQAir as of Friday morning. This ranking places Chiang Mai among the world's most affected areas in terms of air quality, as residents face air pollution that is far above the safe range. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1357523-chiang-mai-faces-severe-air-pollution-ranks-ninth-globally/

File photo for reference only Chiang Mai Municipality has been ranked as the ninth most polluted city worldwide, with an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 147, according to data from IQAir as of Friday morning. This ranking places Chiang Mai among the world's most affected areas in terms of air quality, as residents face air pollution that is far above the safe range. Efforts to combat this environmental concern are underway, with coordinated actions by the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) and the Royal Thai Army. These efforts focus on mitigating air pollution across 17 northern provinces enduring significant air quality issues. On Thursday, the DDPM’s Guardian Team deployed a KA-32 helicopter to battle fires burning in the Pang Makham Pom conservation forest within Chiang Mai’s Chai Prakan district. The helicopter executed eight sorties, releasing an impressive 24,000 litres of water to douse the flames, before completing its mission at the 7th Infantry Division in Mae Rim district by 3:50 pm. Despite these efforts, the pollution levels remained critically high. Chiang Mai's AQI of 147 is starkly above the 0–50 range considered safe for air quality. This places it behind other major cities like Beijing, China (169 AQI), and Jakarta, Indonesia (162 AQI), which are also grappling with significant pollution levels. Kuwait City has topped the global list with an extraordinarily high AQI of 2,005, followed by Baghdad, Iraq (754), and Riyadh, Saudi Arabia (224), all facing critical air quality challenges. The current ranking of the world's most polluted cities as of 9 am includes: Kuwait City, Kuwait – 2,005 AQI Baghdad, Iraq – 754 AQI Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – 224 AQI Beijing, China – 169 AQI Jakarta, Indonesia – 162 AQI Shanghai, China – 161 AQI Hanoi, Vietnam – 158 AQI Manila, Philippines – 152 AQI Chiang Mai Municipality, Thailand – 147 AQI Incheon, South Korea – 140 AQI As the situation develops, authorities continue their dedicated efforts to alleviate the pollution crisis in Chiang Mai and surrounding regions, focusing on reducing forest fires, which significantly contribute to the poor air quality. Residents are advised to stay informed and take precautions to protect their health amid these challenging conditions, reported The Nation. -- 2025-04-11

Concerns Grow as Injured Foreigner Vanishes After Bar Brawl on Koh Lanta Photo via Amarin TV Authorities and residents are concerned after a foreign man, visibly injured and covered in blood, disappeared on a motorcycle following a brawl at a bar on Koh Lanta, an island in Thailand's southern province of Krabi. The incident unfolded on the evening of April 9 and has since raised alarms locally due to its violent nature and the man's unresolved whereabouts. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1357521-concerns-grow-as-injured-foreigner-vanishes-after-bar-brawl-on-koh-lanta/

Photo via Amarin TV Authorities and residents are concerned after a foreign man, visibly injured and covered in blood, disappeared on a motorcycle following a brawl at a bar on Koh Lanta, an island in Thailand's southern province of Krabi. The incident unfolded on the evening of April 9 and has since raised alarms locally due to its violent nature and the man's unresolved whereabouts. A Thai bar owner captured and shared footage of the altercation on social media, providing a glimpse into the tense aftermath. The video, recorded at approximately 10:30 pm, shows a foreign man with bloodstains across his body exiting the bar and attempting to leave on a motorcycle. Two other foreigners followed suit on their bikes, but a man in brown shorts took steps to block the injured man's departure, leading to a heated exchange. Despite the confrontation, the injured man collided with a parked motorcycle before managing to flee the scene. The bar owner, who documented the incident, was heard in the recording speculating about a possible stabbing, saying, “Stabbing? I see a hole in his body there. It’s stabbing.” He suggested the injured man's friends seek medical assistance, but this advice was seemingly ignored as no one acted upon it. Staff at the bar recounted that the man had arrived with a group of five to six friends, who had been drinking together since early evening. An argument erupted among them, escalating into a physical fight where one member ended up with a bloody wound. The chaotic scene has left the exact cause of the injury and the identity of any attacker unclear. In response to the destruction caused during the fracas, the bar owner reported the incident to the police, citing damage to furniture and utensils. Law enforcement is actively working to identify those involved and plans to summon them for questioning. As of now, there have been no hospital reports confirming whether the injured man received medical treatment, augmenting the concerns for his safety and well-being. The situation remains under investigation as officers continue to piece together the events that transpired that night, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-11

Patong Police Crackdown on Drink-Driving Begins Amid Songkran Festivities Picture courtesy of Motorist Thailand With Songkran festivities in full swing, Patong police have taken a firm stance on road safety, arresting six foreign revelers for drink-driving in a decisive late-night crackdown. The operation took place near Loma Circle on Thaweewong Road between 12:30 am and 2:30 am on April 11, forming a critical part of the Seven Days road safety campaign aimed at reducing accidents during Thailand's most boisterous holiday. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1357520-patong-police-crackdown-on-drink-driving-begins-amid-songkran-festivities/

Picture courtesy of Motorist Thailand With Songkran festivities in full swing, Patong police have taken a firm stance on road safety, arresting six foreign revelers for drink-driving in a decisive late-night crackdown. The operation took place near Loma Circle on Thaweewong Road between 12:30 am and 2:30 am on April 11, forming a critical part of the Seven Days road safety campaign aimed at reducing accidents during Thailand's most boisterous holiday. The offenders, from Oman, the UK, India, and Denmark, were found to have blood alcohol levels exceeding the legal limit of 50 milligrams per decilitre, as confirmed by authorities. The individuals arrested included: Mr Zahir, 25, Oman – 88mg% Mr Asad, 26, Oman – 192mg% Mr Ethan, 25, UK – 66mg% Mr Jamie, 25, UK – 95mg% Mr Amit, 42, India – 95mg% Mr Jesper, 40, Denmark – 80mg% All six were apprehended and charged with driving under the influence, initiating further legal processes. Patong Police Chief, Police Colonel Ekkasak Hirasawasdi, spearheaded the operation supported by senior officers and tourist police, underlining a committed effort to maintain road safety throughout the celebrations. Checkpoint operations will continue during the Songkran period, with authorities urging both locals and tourists to "celebrate responsibly" and avoid driving after consuming alcohol. To assist in this effort, the Phuket police have launched the You Drink, We Drive campaign, promoting the use of taxis and ride-hailing services instead of personal vehicles. Convenient QR codes linking to major ride-hailing apps are included on posters across the island, encouraging safer travel choices. Back on April 9, Phuket officials started rolling out enhanced safety measures targeting both road and marine safety, anticipating a surge in tourists and local participants for the Songkran festival. The stakes are high for drivers caught over the limit, facing potential imprisonment for up to one year, fines ranging from 5,000 to 20,000 baht, and the suspension or revocation of driving licenses. The determined actions by Patong police and supporting bodies aim to safeguard both residents and visitors, ensuring that the spirit of Songkran is celebrated free from the risk of alcohol-related incidents on the roads, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-11

Phuket Airport Arrest: Russian National Detained Over Labour Offences Pictures courtesy of The Phuket News Immigration officers at Phuket International Airport executed a dramatic arrest of a 29-year-old Russian national, wanted under a Phuket Provincial Court warrant for allegedly failing to pay employee wages and defying directives from labour inspectors. The arrest occurred at about 3:30 pm on April 9 inside the international arrivals hall. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1357518-phuket-airport-arrest-russian-national-detained-over-labour-offences/

Pictures courtesy of The Phuket News Immigration officers at Phuket International Airport executed a dramatic arrest of a 29-year-old Russian national, wanted under a Phuket Provincial Court warrant for allegedly failing to pay employee wages and defying directives from labour inspectors. The arrest occurred at about 3:30 pm on April 9 inside the international arrivals hall. This apprehension was the culmination of joint efforts by the Phuket Airport Immigration Investigation team and Cherng Talay Police Station officers, as detailed in a statement from Phuket Airport Immigration. The operation was led by Phuket Airport Immigration Chief, Police Lieutenant Colonel Akkaraphon Kaewkiattiyos, with senior officers Pol. Lt. Col. Rassarin Thiraphatthanakun and Pol. Lt. Col. Suthirat Thirasawat overseeing proceedings. Additional support came from the Suppression Investigation Unit to ensure a seamless execution of the arrest. The individual, whose identity was not disclosed in official reports, was taken into custody without resistance and subsequently transferred to Cherng Talay Police Station for further legal action. The charges, based on the court warrant, include collusion in withholding wages and ignoring formal directives from labour officials—serious offences under Thai labour laws, especially concerning foreign nationals engaged in business or management roles. Thai authorities remain vigilant in enforcing labour regulations, ensuring compliance, particularly among expatriates operating within the country. This arrest highlights the ongoing commitment to upholding legal standards and protecting workers' rights across all sectors, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-11

Bangkok Prepares for Safe Songkran Celebrations Amid Tightened Security Photo courtesy of BK Magazine Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt has warmly invited the public to partake in Songkran festivities on Silom and Khao San roads from April 12 to 14, promising robust safety measures across the city. The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has prepared comprehensive protocols, including entrance checkpoints and CCTV, to ensure a secure environment for all festival-goers. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1357516-bangkok-prepares-for-safe-songkran-celebrations-amid-tightened-security/

Photo courtesy of BK Magazine Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt has warmly invited the public to partake in Songkran festivities on Silom and Khao San roads from April 12 to 14, promising robust safety measures across the city. The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has prepared comprehensive protocols, including entrance checkpoints and CCTV, to ensure a secure environment for all festival-goers. High-traffic areas like Khao San and Silom will witness enhanced safety arrangements, building on last year's successful measures. Entry points will be closely monitored, with one-way gates and a strong police presence. Additionally, Khao San Road will employ advanced surveillance technologies, notably artificial intelligence for facial recognition and crowd analysis, to assist with locating missing persons and lost items. Governor Chadchart emphasised this year's Songkran as an opportunity for Bangkok to showcase its readiness for public safety, especially following the March 28 earthquake. Despite ongoing holiday festivities, BMA teams will persist with the rescue operations at the collapsed State Audit Office in the Chatuchak district. Highlighting the festival's logistics, Bang Rak district chief Pornpan Wattanasin announced the closure of Silom Road between Sala Daeng and Nararom Intersection from 1pm to 9pm daily during the celebrations. Street vendors are strictly prohibited from vending on footpaths, with stringent legal repercussions under the 1992 Act on the Maintenance of the Cleanliness and Orderliness of the Country for non-compliance. Deputy Governor Sanon Wangsrangboon disclosed the allocation of 196 venues for Songkran festivities, with highlights including the Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2025 at Sanam Luang and events at Iconsiam, Siam Center, and Samyan Mitrtown. To ensure safety and enjoyment, BMA has introduced a “Five-No” policy: prohibiting oversized water guns, alcohol, revealing clothing, talcum powder, and water wastage. In parallel, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, at the opening of King Power Rangnam’s Songkran Festival, called on Thais to leverage the celebrations as a platform for enhancing the country’s economic potential through soft power. With these measures in place, Bangkok aims to offer a joyful and secure Songkran experience, balancing cultural celebrations with public safety and order, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-11

Thailand's Airports Achieve Global Recognition with Major Rankings Leap Photo courtesy of Wego Travel Blog Thailand's major airports are ascending in global recognition, with Suvarnabhumi International Airport making an impressive entrance into the top 40 of the world's best airports for 2025. Meanwhile, Don Mueang International Airport has solidified its standing as a top choice for budget travellers, landing within the top 10 for low-cost travel hubs. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1357515-thailands-airports-achieve-global-recognition-with-major-rankings-leap/

Photo courtesy of Wego Travel Blog Thailand's major airports are ascending in global recognition, with Suvarnabhumi International Airport making an impressive entrance into the top 40 of the world's best airports for 2025. Meanwhile, Don Mueang International Airport has solidified its standing as a top choice for budget travellers, landing within the top 10 for low-cost travel hubs. On April 10, Airports of Thailand (AOT) CEO Keerati Kitimanawat announced this remarkable progress, crediting robust governmental support, particularly from Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport Suriya Juangroongruangkit. His efforts in championing aviation development have been aimed at bolstering trade, tourism, and investment within the country. The latest rankings from Skytrax, a UK-based aviation research and consulting firm, show Suvarnabhumi Airport advancing significantly to 39th place globally, climbing from 58th last year. It has also been recognised as the third most improved airport worldwide and ranked sixth among those serving 50 to 60 million passengers annually. Simultaneously, Don Mueang Airport has cemented its appeal to low-cost carriers by achieving eighth place in the world's best low-cost airports, improving from the previous 10th position. These rankings are derived from the World Airport Survey, which gathers extensive passenger feedback on check-in procedures, security, shopping, and terminal cleanliness. The official results were announced on April 9 at the Passenger Terminal Expo in Madrid, Spain. Keerati remarked, “This global recognition reflects the international community’s growing confidence in the quality of services offered at Thai airports. It’s a testament to the collaboration of all agencies involved." With a focus on further enhancing infrastructure, adopting new technologies, and elevating service standards, AOT is committed to ensuring Thai airports continue to gain acclaim on the global stage. This news not only boosts Thailand's image as a premier travel hub but also highlights its commitment to becoming a regional leader in aviation, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-11

Rescue Team in Thailand Hopes for Miracle Survivor Under Rubble Picture courtesy of KhaoSod In a hopeful twist amidst a tragic scene, the Phetkasem Foundation rescue team may have located a survivor deep beneath the collapse of the State Audit Office building in Bangkok. This comes two weeks after the deadly March 28 earthquake that shook Thailand following powerful tremors originating from Myanmar. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1357514-rescue-team-in-thailand-hopes-for-miracle-survivor-under-rubble/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod In a hopeful twist amidst a tragic scene, the Phetkasem Foundation rescue team may have located a survivor deep beneath the collapse of the State Audit Office building in Bangkok. This comes two weeks after the deadly March 28 earthquake that shook Thailand following powerful tremors originating from Myanmar. The flickering light, presumed to be from a mobile phone, was spotted three metres below the ruins in the still-under-construction Zone B of the building. This discovery, reported early on the morning of April 11, is a critical breakthrough in the ongoing effort to find survivors among the 71 individuals still missing. Thus far, the disaster has claimed 23 lives and injured nine, with a total of 103 people affected. The Phetkasem Foundation shared the potential lead on their Facebook page, igniting a sense of urgency in the rescue mission. The post read, “Urgent! The rescue team found a light signal below, approximately 3 metres deep. It is believed that it may be a light signal from a survivor’s mobile phone in Zone B at 7.30am.” Rescue workers reported that the light appeared to respond to their instructions, switching on and off, though no voice was detected. A rescuer noted the sound was similar to a Samsung phone being powered on and off, heightening hopes that there may still be life under the rubble. By 8:50 am, despite no audible responses, the light continued to flash as directed, sustaining hopes of a survivor. Further bolstering these hopes was radar equipment detecting two bodies in Zone B—one located at a depth of approximately one metre, and another around three metres. While a rescue under such circumstances seems daunting, experts highlight that survival for two weeks, although challenging, is possible under certain conditions. Access to water, even in tiny amounts, or finding a safe pocket with moisture or supplies could support life amid the debris. The discovery has sparked renewed energy among the rescue teams working tirelessly to save lives. They are deploying cameras to verify the source of the signal, remaining cautiously optimistic that this flicker of light could lead to a remarkable rescue. With time as a critical factor, every effort is being made to capitalise on this promising lead, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-11

Drunken Brawl on Pattaya Beach Road Disrupts Tourists and Draws Police Pictures courtesy of The Pattaya News Chaos unfolded along Pattaya Beach Road on the evening of April 9 when a domestic dispute between a couple spiralled into a violent altercation, prompting police and rescue crews to intervene. This disturbing scene, which took place at 8:06 pm near North Pattaya, left a 49-year-old man named Suthon and a 42-year-old woman named Rungnapha injured and incoherent after consuming excessive amounts of white spirit. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1357513-drunken-brawl-on-pattaya-beach-road-disrupts-tourists-and-draws-police/

Pictures courtesy of The Pattaya News Chaos unfolded along Pattaya Beach Road on the evening of April 9 when a domestic dispute between a couple spiralled into a violent altercation, prompting police and rescue crews to intervene. This disturbing scene, which took place at 8:06 pm near North Pattaya, left a 49-year-old man named Suthon and a 42-year-old woman named Rungnapha injured and incoherent after consuming excessive amounts of white spirit. Officers from Pattaya Police Station and rescue personnel from the Sawang Boriboon Foundation quickly responded to frantic calls from bystanders witnessing the commotion. Upon arrival, they encountered the couple engaged in a fierce scuffle and shouting, their behaviour drawing the attention of stunned tourists in the vicinity. Both Suthon and Rungnapha appeared to be heavily intoxicated, struggling to articulate and visibly ruffled. Their refusal to calm down only heightened the drama of the situation as officers attempted to intervene. The couple explained that the argument began after a bout of drinking, with emotions running high and tempers flaring. What started as a verbal disagreement rapidly escalated into physical violence, resulting in facial injuries and bruises for both parties. Rescue workers on the scene administered first aid to address their immediate injuries. A witness reported that, amidst the barrage of insults, the woman allegedly began to choke and hit the man, exacerbating the situation. The exact cause of the dispute remains unclear, but alcohol played a significant role in fuelling the conflict. The incident rattled tourists in the area, which is typically associated with vibrant nightlife and a peaceful, laid-back environment. While no charges have been announced, police continue their investigation into the altercation. Authorities have used the incident as a opportunity to remind the public of the importance of drinking responsibly and maintaining decorum in public spaces to avoid such disruptions, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-11

Transgender Women's Altercation on Pattaya Beach Goes Viral Online - video Pictures courtesy of The Pattaya News In the early hours of April 10, a confrontation between two transgender women on Pattaya Beach captured the attention of tourists and swiftly went viral online. The altercation, which occurred at around 2:36 am, drew a crowd of onlookers who watched in surprise as the situation unfolded. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1357511-transgender-womens-altercation-on-pattaya-beach-goes-viral-online-video/

Pictures courtesy of The Pattaya News In the early hours of April 10, a confrontation between two transgender women on Pattaya Beach captured the attention of tourists and swiftly went viral online. The altercation, which occurred at around 2:36 am, drew a crowd of onlookers who watched in surprise as the situation unfolded. Pattaya Police were notified of the incident and rushed to the popular beachfront location. However, by the time officers arrived, the scene was deserted except for sandy scuff marks and a lingering crowd of curious tourists discussing the spectacle they had witnessed. Witnesses recounted the events as initially a heated argument between the two women that soon escalated into a physical fight. "It was wild. They were shouting and hitting each other, and a bunch of people started gathering around," remarked one tourist. The commotion attracted attention from all over the beach, with some spectators even cheering as if it were entertainment. Footage captured by a bystander shows the two women engaged in a tussle on the sand, surrounded by beachgoers with mixed reactions—some in disbelief, others actively encouraging the altercation. The video quickly found its way to social media platforms, where it spread rapidly and fuelled further discussion. The reason behind the disagreement remains unclear, but according to witnesses, a few Good Samaritans intervened to break up the fight before it intensified. Both individuals reportedly left the scene soon after, with no serious injuries reported. Despite the incident's public nature and the viral video, Pattaya police stated that no official complaints had been filed by those involved as of the latest report. Police are currently analysing CCTV footage and videos provided by witnesses to identify the individuals involved. They have issued a reminder that street fighting and disorderly conduct can lead to legal repercussions, urging those involved to come forward and cooperate with the investigation, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-11

US Expat in Thailand Faces 10 Years for Threatening US Senator Photo courtesy of The Hill In a troubling case intertwining political fervour and unlawful threats, Eric Charles Welton, a 53-year-old American living in Thailand, is facing up to 10 years in a US federal prison. This follows his reported admission to making death threats against US Senator Thom Tillis and his staff, spurred by frustrations over repetitive political emails. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1357509-us-expat-in-thailand-faces-10-years-for-threatening-us-senator/

Photo courtesy of The Hill In a troubling case intertwining political fervour and unlawful threats, Eric Charles Welton, a 53-year-old American living in Thailand, is facing up to 10 years in a US federal prison. This follows his reported admission to making death threats against US Senator Thom Tillis and his staff, spurred by frustrations over repetitive political emails. According to the US Department of Justice, Welton has pleaded guilty to charges of threatening a federal official in connection with their duties. His sentencing is set for July, where he could face a substantial prison term for his actions. The alarming saga unfolded with a series of aggressive phone calls. In September 2021, tensions peaked when Welton contacted Senator Tillis’s office in Raleigh, North Carolina, making vivid and violent threats. Among his menacing remarks, he reportedly threatened to “put a bullet through each of [their] heads” and “mow down” the entire state, prompted by dissatisfaction over unsolicited emails. Daniel Bubar, Acting US Attorney, condemned Welton’s actions as both “despicable” and an “affront to our democratic system.” FBI Special Agent Robert DeWitt highlighted the severity of the threats, noting that such behaviour aims to erode democracy and will not be tolerated. Senator Tillis, a Republican who has been subject to increased threats amid political tensions of the Trump era, has been proactive in countering intimidation. His office, releasing audio clips of threatening messages, pledged to take legal action against any attempts to target him or his team. On April 10, Tillis's office expressed gratitude to law enforcement for their diligence and stressed the importance of accountability in an era where hostility towards public servants is becoming alarmingly common. Welton’s case serves as a stark reminder of the severe consequences tied to making violent threats against public officials, regardless of the motive behind them, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-11

British Fighter's Promising Career Ends in Tragic Overdose in Thailand Picture courtesy of Josh Goldstone’s Instagram account In a heart-wrenching turn of events, young British fighter Joshua Goldstone's dreams came to an abrupt end after he was found dead from a drug overdose in Pattaya, Thailand. The 21-year-old, whose promising career seemed just to be taking off, was discovered lifeless in his hotel room alongside Australian boxing champion Jayson Tonkin, who was rushed to the hospital and survived. Goldstone hailed from Etchingham, East Sussex, and had been dedicating his life to training and living in Thailand, a known haven for fighters honing their craft. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1357506-british-fighters-promising-career-ends-in-tragic-overdose-in-thailand/

Picture courtesy of Josh Goldstone’s Instagram account In a heart-wrenching turn of events, young British fighter Joshua Goldstone's dreams came to an abrupt end after he was found dead from a drug overdose in Pattaya, Thailand. The 21-year-old, whose promising career seemed just to be taking off, was discovered lifeless in his hotel room alongside Australian boxing champion Jayson Tonkin, who was rushed to the hospital and survived. Goldstone hailed from Etchingham, East Sussex, and had been dedicating his life to training and living in Thailand, a known haven for fighters honing their craft. On the 30th of October, Goldstone was found in Room 2412 of the Vogue Hotel, and initially, Thai emergency services cited “respiratory and circulatory system failure” as the cause of death. However, Coroner Sarah Clarke, who opened an inquest at Oakwood House in Maidstone, revealed that a UK post-mortem confirmed the cause as multi-drug toxicity, shedding light on the tragic circumstances. Before his untimely demise, Goldstone's life was filled with the thrill of competition and the camaraderie of his fellow fighters. He had been sharing snippets of his training sessions and matches from Hua Hin, receiving much praise for his determination and aggressive style in the ring. These moments painted a picture of a young man on the brink of greater success, fully embedded in the life he had worked hard to build. The news of Goldstone’s death reverberated through his community back in the UK, leading to an outpouring of grief and tributes. Semtex Muay Thai in Tunbridge Wells, where Goldstone had honed his skills since his teens, paid heartfelt homage: "Josh has been a member of Semtex since he was a young teen and quickly became one of the family," they recalled. "He was a strong-spirited, kind-hearted and fearless boy who inspired many of our younger team members." These sentiments were echoed by friends and family who took to social media, sharing memories and expressing their sorrow: "Your light will continue to shine in our memories of such a fabulous young human being taken far too soon." The fighter’s body was repatriated to the UK on November 9, just days after his life was tragically cut short. As friends and family mourn, they also celebrate the vibrancy and courage Goldstone brought to their lives, remembering him as the "joker" who could "put a smile on everyone’s face." A full inquest into Joshua Goldstone’s death is expected to be held later this year, potentially revealing more about the circumstances surrounding his overdose. Meanwhile, the fighting community continues to grapple with the loss, cherishing the legacy of a bright talent gone too soon. They hold onto his memory, hoping to draw strength from the light he shone, both in the ring and in their hearts, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-11

File photo for reference only Vietnam is contemplating major changes to its nationality law that could allow dual citizenship and relax existing citizenship requirements for foreigners. The Ministry of Justice has put forward a draft amendment to the Law on Vietnamese Nationality, highlighting circumstances where individuals might retain another nationality alongside Vietnamese citizenship. Currently, Vietnam mandates that new citizens renounce foreign nationalities, except in specific cases. However, the new proposal suggests granting exceptions in special circumstances determined by the government. This aligns with global trends, where multiple nationalities are increasingly permitted. The draft amendment includes streamlined procedures for certain groups to acquire Vietnamese citizenship, surpassing current requirements like language proficiency, residency duration, and financial independence. Eligible candidates could include those with Vietnamese lineage—children or grandchildren of Vietnamese citizens—and foreigners who have significantly contributed to Vietnam’s development and security. For minors with at least one Vietnamese parent, the amendment abolishes the need for "full capacity for civil acts" to apply for citizenship, making the process more accessible. Similarly, the draft proposes easing the path for former Vietnamese citizens to regain their nationality. It removes previous restrictions on nationality restoration, which were largely limited to those with familial links to Vietnam, investors, or individuals with notable contributions to the country. This change also targets individuals who relinquished Vietnamese citizenship without successfully acquiring another nationality. Between March and now, Vietnam has reinstated citizenship for 311 individuals and granted citizenship to 7,014 applicants, with 60 maintaining their original foreign citizenship. The Ministry of Justice asserts that the proposed changes are intended to reconnect former citizens with Vietnam and reflect the evolving international stance on dual nationality, reported VN Express. -- 2025-04-10