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A car fire disrupted traffic near the Buffalo Market on Thepprasit Road, South Pattaya yesterday. A black Kia van driven by Patcharaporn Chatmong, 36, caught fire, causing heavy smoke to spread across the road. This incident occurred just after she had dropped off her child at school. The fire began when the brakes on her four-year-old car failed, causing Patcharaporn to rely on the handbrake. She spotted smoke coming from the engine and quickly abandoned her vehicle, calling for help. First Class Chief Petty Officer Peeraphat Nopsiri, a technician from the Thai Royal Navy ship HTMS Naresuan, rallied local people to help fight the fire. They utilized chemical fire extinguishers and worked to open the car hood to put out the fire. Regarding the incident, Patcharaporn shared, "My brakes failed all of a sudden. I had to use the handbrake. When I saw the smoke and fire, I quickly left the car and called for help." Preliminary investigations by the Disaster Prevention and Mitigation team point to an electrical system error as the cause of the fire. Swift action by bystanders and emergency respondents helped contain the fire, preventing further damage. TOP Picture courtesy: KardChuek News -- 2024-05-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Daughter-in-law of Lopburi landlady traps tenants due to deposit dispute - video File photo for reference only. Courtesy of Google In the central province of Lopburi, a homeowner's daughter-in-law locked five tenants inside their rental property after they were unable to pay a tenancy deposit of 2,500 baht. One of the trapped tenants, a 25-year-old woman identified as Siriwan, sought help from the police after she and her family were prevented from leaving their home due to the padlock placed by the landlord's daughter-in-law. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327531-daughter-in-law-of-lopburi-landlady-traps-tenants-due-to-deposit-dispute-video/

In the central province of Lopburi, a homeowner's daughter-in-law locked five tenants inside their rental property after they were unable to pay a tenancy deposit of 2,500 baht. One of the trapped tenants, a 25-year-old woman identified as Siriwan, sought help from the police after she and her family were prevented from leaving their home due to the padlock placed by the landlord's daughter-in-law. According to Channel 8, the woman responsible for the deadlock, named Aom, decided to lock the property's fence when the family failed to pay the required tenancy deposit. Siriwan, her husband, their newborn baby, and her in-laws were living in the rented home at the time. In her report, Siriwan stated that Aom, who is in charge of the rental agreement and fees, asked for a monthly rent of 2,500 baht and a deposit of 7,500 baht, a total of 10,000 baht for the first month. Siriwan, a new mother, was not able to meet this financial demand due to her husband being the only one working. She proposed paying the remaining 2,500 baht in two payments over the succeeding months, but Aom denied her request. A failed meeting and an unanswered late-night call from Aom left a message for Siriwan, stating, “You broke the promise, so I had to put on a lock.” Following this incident, the homeowner apologized for Aom's actions, although Siriwan never received an apology from Aom herself. Overwhelmed and unable to afford a legal case against Aom, Siriwan and her family decided to move out by the end of May. File photo for reference only. Courtesy of Google -- 2024-05-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai School Supports LGBTQ Rights: Students Allowed Freedom in Hairstyling Choices File photo for reference only. Courtesy of Google In an unprecedented decision, Boon Wattana School in Nakhon Ratchasima is now enabling LGBTQ students to style their hair according to their gender identity. The new rule has resulted in several male students confidently displaying long hair, an option formerly accessible only to female students. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327530-thai-school-supports-lgbtq-rights-students-allowed-freedom-in-hairstyling-choices/

In an unprecedented decision, Boon Wattana School in Nakhon Ratchasima is now enabling LGBTQ students to style their hair according to their gender identity. The new rule has resulted in several male students confidently displaying long hair, an option formerly accessible only to female students. Panwarit Patwimonsilp, a 16-year-old Boon Wattana student, was thrilled by the transformation. He said, "Last year, I was forced to have a haircut like other boys, which negatively impacted my self-esteem. Hearing the school now permits us to pick our hairdos made me grow my hair again during the school hiatus. This innovative rule makes school exciting for me." Principal Wichien Thongklee stated that Boon Wattana is the first school in the area to recognize and respect students' right to showcase their gender identity through their looks. The conclusion was drawn after a joint meeting involving the school board, executives, parents, teachers, and student representatives. Thongklee noted, "This initiative has been warmly embraced by students and their parents. All the LGBTQ students I encountered today appeared truly joyful. This aligns perfectly with our policy favoring a positive and fun learning environment." Further advancing its inclusive efforts, the school is building specific rainbow toilets for LGBTQ students. The project is expected to finish in a week, says The Nation. Thongklee also mentioned that the school would consistently review these new rules to make sure they address all student needs. File photo for reference only. Courtesy of Google -- 2024-05-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Jealous durian vendor’s ex-partner opens fire, injuring two Image courtesy of Daily News The serene atmosphere of the Thung Kok Police Station was shattered yesterday evening as a durian vendor raced to the station, revealing the gunshot wounds he received from his jealous ex-wife. The incident transpired at a Suphan Buri residence, approximately 5 kilometres away from the police station. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327529-jealous-durian-vendor’s-ex-partner-opens-fire-injuring-two/

The serene atmosphere of the Thung Kok Police Station was shattered yesterday evening as a durian vendor raced to the station, revealing the gunshot wounds he received from his jealous ex-wife. The incident transpired at a Suphan Buri residence, approximately 5 kilometres away from the police station. The driver, 55 year old Aphichot was shot, and sustained injuries to his left chest. He sought assistance at the police station, further informing authorities that his 30 year old wife, Thiporada had also been shot, requiring medical aid. Police were promptly sent to investigate the scene. During their investigations, Thiporada was discovered with three gunshot wounds, two in her stomach and to her bottom. Both individuals were swiftly transported to Somdet Phra Sangkharat Hospital for treatment. The perpetrator was identified as 49 year old Jutharat, Aphichot’s former wife. Subsequently, Thung Kok Police Superintendent Police Colonel Yanathorn Sanitpanyawotho, along with Deputy Superintendent Police Colonel Niyom Suiwong, led a team to investigate the incident. They successfully apprehended Jutharat, who was found hiding inside the house at the scene. She was armed with a .38 calibre pistol used in the incident with five bullets found in the magazine. During the search of her car, ten more bullets were discovered. She was then taken into custody for further questioning at Thung Kok Police Station. Preliminary investigations reveal that before the incident, Aphichot, her ex-husband, along with Thiporada, his new wife, was selling durians from a truck. Jutharat spotted them and followed them home to the scene. A heated argument ensued, culminating in Jutharat retrieving a gun from her car and firing at Aphichot and Thiporada. The charges against her include attempted murder and illegal possession of firearms, as well as firing a weapon in a public place. She is being held for further legal proceedings, with evidence gathered from the scene and testimonies from witnesses, reported Daily News. By Ryan Turner Image courtesy of Daily News Source: The Thaiger 2024-05-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Bangkok authorities crack down on vapes, raiding stores Image courtesy of Daily News Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya authorities cracked down on the sale of vapes near schools, seizing 1.6 million baht worth of products. Led by the Consumer Protection Committee, the operation aims to protect public health, particularly children, from the dangers of nicotine addiction. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327528-bangkok-authorities-crack-down-on-vapes-raiding-stores/

Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya authorities cracked down on the sale of vapes near schools, seizing 1.6 million baht worth of products. Led by the Consumer Protection Committee, the operation aims to protect public health, particularly children, from the dangers of nicotine addiction. The Secretary-General of the Consumer Protection Committee Thosarat Thanitiphan assigned a special operation centre led by the Director of the Consumer Protection Board (CPB) Lertsak Raktham, to act as the Deputy Director of the Special Operations Center, targeting the unregulated sales of electronic cigarettes. CPB, along with officers, conducted inspections of stores clandestinely selling electronic cigarettes and e-liquids in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province. They found such items being sold near schools in Bang Pa-in and Uthai districts for a considerable period. Consequently, they seized all electronic cigarettes and e-liquids, worth approximately 1.6 million baht, and handed them over to the investigating officers of Bang Pa-in and Uthai police stations for legal proceedings against the sellers. Thosarat stated that CPB, in conjunction with Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province, has consistently carried out law enforcement operations against the illicit sale of electronic cigarettes and e-liquids, aligning with the policies of Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin and the relevant ministers. The minister attached to the Prime Minister’s Office, Jiraporn Sinthupiphat assigned the CPB to continue operations against electronic cigarettes due to their unlawful nature and adverse health effects, especially on children and adolescents following the school reopening period. According to officials, it is necessary to increase law enforcement measures to protect consumers’ health from such hazardous products. Illegally selling electronic cigarettes and e-liquids is punishable under Consumer Protection Committee Order No. 9/2558, which prohibits the sale or provision of services for electronic cigarettes, e-cigarettes, or e-liquid refills. Anyone found violating this order is liable to imprisonment for up to three years, a fine of not more than 600,000 baht, or both. Particularly, during the period when educational institutions are opening for classes, the CPB must ensure the safety of children and adolescents from such hazardous products, reported Daily News. By Ryan Turner Image courtesy of Daily News Source: The Thaiger 2024-05-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

From smog to serenity: Bangkok’s Benjakitti Park breathes new life Photo courtesy of The New York Times via Japan Times Bangkok, former home to a sprawling industrial estate, where Thailand’s state-owned tobacco monopoly churned out millions of cigarettes for over half a century, emerges from the smog. Benjakitti Park, an urban oasis, has rapidly become a beloved haven for Bangkok’s 11 million residents. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327526-from-smog-to-serenity-bangkok’s-benjakitti-park-breathes-new-life/

Bangkok, former home to a sprawling industrial estate, where Thailand’s state-owned tobacco monopoly churned out millions of cigarettes for over half a century, emerges from the smog. Benjakitti Park, an urban oasis, has rapidly become a beloved haven for Bangkok’s 11 million residents. Officially opened in August 2022 to honour Queen Sirikit’s 90th birthday, the now 40-hectare Benjakitti Park boasts a 1.6-kilometre elevated walkway known as the Skywalk, water-purifying wetlands, 8,000 new trees, sports courts, and a dog-walking zone. The Skywalk is a particular hit among the youth, who flock to the park at sunset to take selfies and enjoy the cooler evening air, said Pongsaton Tatone, a freelance photographer. “Benjakitti Park is at the top of my list of places to take pictures. It’s a very popular spot.” Adding significant green space to a densely populated Southeast Asian city is rare, but Bangkok’s new parkland nearly doubles the size of the original Benjakitti Park, which includes a lake and jogging path. This US$20 million (approximately 724 million baht) expansion addresses the city’s dire need for green space, as a 2022 report highlighted Bangkok’s shortfall against the World Health Organisation’s standard. The transformation began in the early 1990s when the government designated the tobacco factory site for parkland. However, it took decades before the state-owned company relinquished the land. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha, who oversaw the project’s acceleration during the pandemic, military personnel were enlisted to expedite the construction. Landscape architect Chatchanin Sung praised the soldiers’ efforts, noting their pride in the park. The new wetlands feature an innovative water purification system using a sewage-contaminated canal, turning foul water into clean irrigation in just four days. The park has become a self-sustaining ecosystem, attracting storks, herons, and other wildlife, reported Japan Times. Of the old tobacco factory, only four buildings remain, repurposed as sports facilities with open designs that integrate nature into their structures. “If you stand in the building, you can see the nature all around you.” By Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of The New York Times via Japan Times Source: The Thaiger 2024-05-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

FIFA’s Infantino takes to the pitch with legends in Bangkok - Video Photo courtesy of Thainews.prd In a prelude to the 74th FIFA Congress, held in Bangkok, FIFA President Gianni Infantino laced up his boots for a friendly football clash alongside iconic stars of yesteryears. The pitch saw a gathering of stars including Luis Figo, Cafu, El-Hadji Diouf, Emmanuel Adebayor, Andriy Shevchenko, and Clarence Seedorf, each representing their footballing confederations. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327523-fifa’s-infantino-takes-to-the-pitch-with-legends-in-bangkok-video/

In a prelude to the 74th FIFA Congress, held in Bangkok, FIFA President Gianni Infantino laced up his boots for a friendly football clash alongside iconic stars of yesteryears. The pitch saw a gathering of stars including Luis Figo, Cafu, El-Hadji Diouf, Emmanuel Adebayor, Andriy Shevchenko, and Clarence Seedorf, each representing their footballing confederations. Post-match, former Arsenal ace Emmanuel Adebayor, now adorned with wisdom from the sidelines, delved into his ex-club’s Premier League pursuits. Adebayor lauded the youthful vigour of the Gunners’ squad while flagging the absence of seasoned campaigners to navigate the choppy waters of elite competition. In a nod to Manchester City’s mastery, he pinpointed experience as the X-factor, a trait Arsenal could wield to close the gap. Amidst tactical musings, Adebayor’s gaze shifted to Paris Saint-Germain’s golden boy, Kylian Mbappe. The Togolese maestro advocated for Mbappe’s autonomy in shaping his career trajectory, underlining the weight of his laurels – a World Cup triumph and glittering Parisian accolades, reported Africa News. With the Premier League’s siren call echoing, Adebayor championed Mbappe’s prerogative, a call to embrace agency in the beautiful game’s labyrinth. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Thainews.prd Source: The Thaiger 2024-05-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai mother-in-law admits to fatal stabbing in Nonthaburi Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A mother-in-law confessed to fatally stabbing her son-in-law after a heated argument between him and her daughter over a video call with another woman. The incident occurred in a village in Maha Sawat, Bang Kruai District, Nonthaburi Province. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327522-thai-mother-in-law-admits-to-fatal-stabbing-in-nonthaburi/

A mother-in-law confessed to fatally stabbing her son-in-law after a heated argument between him and her daughter over a video call with another woman. The incident occurred in a village in Maha Sawat, Bang Kruai District, Nonthaburi Province. The victim, 38 year old Warakorn, was found dead in his home with stab wounds. Following the incident, the mother in law, 55 year old Anan, waited for the police to arrive and subsequently surrendered herself. Police officers at Bang Kruai Police Station conducted an additional interrogation of Anan at 10.30am today. Despite having been questioned the previous night, Anan remained visibly shaken and provided inconsistent statements. She claimed she witnessed her daughter Kanyakorn and son in law arguing on the sofa in their home. Fearing that Warakorn might use a nearby knife to harm her daughter, she grabbed the knife, leading to a chaotic struggle and ultimately stabbing him multiple times. Anan also mentioned that Warakorn had previously assaulted her two days prior, prompting her to file a police report at Bang Kruai Police Station. However, this account conflicted with Kanyakorn’s statement. The daughter stated that the argument was about her husband video-calling another woman, and she did not notice where her mother came from or how she got the knife. Police Colonel Kittisak Pongthanarak of Bang Kruai Police Station stated that no charges have been filed against Anan yet, as the investigation is ongoing to ascertain the truth of the incident. He speculated that the altercation likely stemmed from domestic disputes, given the context of the argument. “The wife of the deceased had called him multiple times without response, which exacerbated her anger and led to the confrontation.” The police brought Anan back to the crime scene this morning to look for additional evidence. Investigators scheduled an interview with Kanyakorn to gather more details about the incident this afternoon, reported KhaoSod. The authorities aim to complete their investigation before pressing any formal charges against Anan. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-05-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Electric Scooter Rentals Surface in Pattaya, Prompting Legal Issues File photo for reference only. Courtesy of Google Electric scooters that can be rented through an app are now popping up in popular tourist spots in Pattaya. This has raised questions from locals about their legality and potential problems they could cause. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327518-electric-scooter-rentals-surface-in-pattaya-prompting-legal-issues/

Electric scooters that can be rented through an app are now popping up in popular tourist spots in Pattaya. This has raised questions from locals about their legality and potential problems they could cause. These scooters can be seen lined up on streets such as Pattaya Beach Road, Second Road, and Jomtien Beach Road. They come with baskets that hold instructions on operating them. To use them, individuals need to download the "GOGO BIKE" app, register, scan a QR code, and pay 249 baht for a day's rental. The app also shows where to park and rent the scooters, which are in various tourist locations in Pattaya. Residents told Pattaya News reporters around the scooter parking spots that they've been there for some time and seem to mostly be used by tourists. They weren't sure who owned them. The scooters seem to be from a business located in Pattaya South’s Duck Square project, where hundreds of identical blue scooters are found. It looks like there are staff members, possibly of Chinese origin, who manage them from an office. The Chonburi Immigration Office is checking into the legality of this rental business. Based on Thai road traffic laws, electric scooters are classified as motorcycles under the 1979 Vehicle Act. This means it's illegal to operate them on public roads without the necessary registration and licenses. Violators of this Section 6 of the Act could incur a fine of up to 10,000 baht. Some Pattaya locals have expressed worries about the legality of these scooters and are calling for relevant authorities to look into the matter. There are fears that these scooters could lead to situations seen in Phuket, where tourists were arrested for riding similar electric scooters on public roads without the necessary permits, despite being told they were legal and didn't need licenses or registrations. File photo for reference only. Courtesy of Google -- 2024-05-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Pattaya terrorised by two fires in the night, locals evacuated Image courtesy of Daily News Two major fires erupted in Pattaya in the early hours this morning, terrorising locals and tourists alike. The first fire erupted at a well-known shopping centre in Nong Prue district, and the second incident erupted at a high-rise condominium on South Pattaya Road. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327517-pattaya-terrorised-by-two-fires-in-the-night-locals-evacuated/

Two major fires erupted in Pattaya in the early hours this morning, terrorising locals and tourists alike. The first fire erupted at a well-known shopping centre in Nong Prue district, and the second incident erupted at a high-rise condominium on South Pattaya Road. A large amount of smoke emerged from the mall, frightening many tourists strolling along Pattaya Beach. The local authorities promptly took control of the situation, directing bystanders to hastily evacuate the area. Pattaya firefighters quickly arrived at the scene to battle the flames. Initially, no fatalities were reported, but two individuals sustained injuries from smoke inhalation. Preliminary assessments suggested that the fire might have originated from a short circuit, with estimated damages of no less than a hundred thousand baht. Later at 3.30am the same night, another fire erupted in a condominium located along South Pattaya Road, Nong Prue sub-district, Bang Lamung district, Chon Buri province. Flames were spotted engulfing the 12th floor and quickly spreading to the 13th floor. Thick smoke billowed into the sky, prompting authorities to evacuate all residents of the condominium for safety. Firefighters battled the raging inferno for over an hour before finally managing to subdue the flames. Investigation revealed the fire originated from a room on the 12th floor, resulting in the complete destruction of the foreign resident’s room. Before the incident, residents in the building had reported a burning smell and seeing flames in the room. Their quick thinking led to initial attempts to extinguish the fire by themselves. However, the fire rapidly spread beyond control, necessitating further assistance from the fire department. Subsequent investigations will involve interviewing the foreign resident, whose room was the initial source of the flames. Forensic experts will further examine the scenes at the condominium to further collect evidence to determine the true cause of the fire, reported Daily News. Image courtesy of Daily News Source: The Thaiger 2024-05-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Beloved Brit found dead in Thailand hotel room Photo courtesy of Simon Browny Brown GoFundMe page A 47 year old machine operator from Pontypridd, South Wales was found dead in his hotel room in Thailand, leaving family and friends devastated. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327516-beloved-brit-found-dead-in-thailand-hotel-room/

A 47 year old machine operator from Pontypridd, South Wales was found dead in his hotel room in Thailand, leaving family and friends devastated. Simon Brown, known as Browny, was discovered lifeless last Saturday, and an investigation into his untimely death is underway. Loved ones describe their state as one of total shock and sadness, as there were no prior indications of ill health. A close friend, Mark Davies, expressed the disbelief shared by many. “It’s just a total shock, it was so unexpected. He wasn’t ill. There was nothing wrong with him. Everyone knew him. He was a crazy bloke – really outgoing and always up for a laugh.” The Welshman was a well-known figure in Trallwn, celebrated for his zest for life and frequent travels to Thailand, a country he adored. His family is now facing the daunting task of repatriating his body, a process that is both lengthy and expensive. They have launched a fundraising appeal to raise £10,000 (approximately 460,000 baht), with over £2,000 already contributed. Davies elaborated on Simon’s life, highlighting his hard-working nature and passion for travel. “He was a hard worker as a machine operator and when he wasn’t working he was always on holiday. In particular, he loved going to Thailand. We don’t know anything at the moment as to the circumstances around it. It only happened on Saturday so we know very little. “We are asking all those who knew and loved Browny to help us bring him back home. As a family, we are now trying to bring Simon back home so that we can lay him to rest at his home in Swansea. Thanks to all those who have reached out and sent messages of condolence, and we appreciate any help you can give.” The GoFundMe campaign, created on Wednesday, has seen an outpouring of support, with nearly 50 donations, including one generous contribution of £500, reported Mirror UK. The Thai authorities have yet to disclose the cause of death or where he was in Thailand when he died. Photo courtesy of Simon Browny Brown GoFundMe page Source: The Thaiger 2024-05-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Two Lives Lost in Road Accidents on Phuket's Roads Yesterday Night File photo for reference only. Courtesy of Google Israeli child dies in Tuk-Tuk acccident A five-year-old girl from Israel unfortunately lost her life in a tragic accident in Patong. The mishap occurred on Patong road at approximately 10:40 pm. The Israeli girl, Nbaa Bahnasi from Jerusalem, was on vacation in Phuket with her family. They were travelling in a tuk-tuk driven by 51-year-old Bunyang Kaewaksorn. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327515-two-lives-lost-in-road-accidents-on-phukets-roads-yesterday-night/

Israeli child dies in Tuk-Tuk acccident A five-year-old girl from Israel unfortunately lost her life in a tragic accident in Patong. The mishap occurred on Patong road at approximately 10:40 pm. The Israeli girl, Nbaa Bahnasi from Jerusalem, was on vacation in Phuket with her family. They were travelling in a tuk-tuk driven by 51-year-old Bunyang Kaewaksorn. Unfortunately, when the tuk-tuk suddenly braked to avoid a pedestrian, young Nbaa fell onto the road. Tragically, she was struck by a car that was following closely behind. Despite being quickly transported to Patong Hospital, Nbaa was pronounced dead upon arrival due to the injuries she sustained from the accident. Motorbike rider crushed by truck A 52-year-old Thai man tragically lost his life in a motorcycle accident on Bang Jo Road in Srisoonthorn earlier at 5:20pm. The man, named Thanakorn Kahong, was hit by a truck while waiting at a traffic light. According to Thalang Police, the truck, which was transporting rocks to a construction site nearby, began moving when the light turned green. The driver of the truck was unaware that he'd run over the motorbike rider. A bystander informed the truck driver about the incident 15 meters down the road. The driver promptly stopped and waited for the police to arrive. Kahong’s body was later transported to Thalang Hospital. The police conducted alcohol and drug tests on the truck driver, which came back negative. Both incidents are under investigation. File photo for reference only. Courtesy of Google -- 2024-05-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Advocacy Groups in Thailand Urge Health Minister to Rethink Cannabis Criminalization File photo for reference only. Courtesy of Google On May 16, 2024, Prasitchai Nunual, the head of the Shaping the Future of Thai Cannabis network, along with several other representatives, requested Thai Minister of Public Health, Somsak Thepsuthin, to review the laws against cannabis use. They presented a letter to the Thai Ministry of Public Health, suggesting that they consider if cannabis should be classified as an illegal drug, or if a specific law to regulate its use should be enacted, as reported by Thai national media. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327457-thailands-cannabis-industry-faces-uncertain-future-amid-government-review/?do=findComment&comment=18922043

Advocacy Groups in Thailand Urge Health Minister to Rethink Cannabis Criminalization On May 16, 2024, Prasitchai Nunual, the head of the Shaping the Future of Thai Cannabis network, along with several other representatives, requested Thai Minister of Public Health, Somsak Thepsuthin, to review the laws against cannabis use. They presented a letter to the Thai Ministry of Public Health, suggesting that they consider if cannabis should be classified as an illegal drug, or if a specific law to regulate its use should be enacted, as reported by Thai national media. The cannabis-supporting groups asked the Thai Ministry of Public Health to compare the benefits and harms of cannabis, alcohol, and cigarettes, using reliable statistics and facts. They requested that an impartial committee be established, comprised of elected people to review and summarize the information. Minister Somsak acknowledged the medicinal, health, and financial usefulness of cannabis, provided it meets global standards. He clarified that he has only ever recognized its use for medical purposes since its legalization in 2022, and doesn't support recreational use. Alongside this, other pro-cannabis groups, including business owners and users, submitted letters to Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, asking him to assess whether cannabis should be classified as a narcotic drug. These letters were submitted from various provinces such as Chiang Mai, Phuket, Chonburi, and Buriram, as per Thai national media reports. These groups called on the Thai government to create a specific legislation for cannabis and to set up a dedicated department to regulate its legal use and ensure unified standards across the country. They presented studies showcasing the benefits of cannabis use and the potential revenue it could generate, requesting the government to consider this information before classifying it as an illegal narcotic drug. Finally, they proposed the idea of a public vote or that individual areas, like Phuket or Pattaya, should be allowed to decide their stance on the legality of cannabis. File photo for reference only. Courtesy of Google -- 2024-05-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe