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File photo for reference only Thailand faces a major economic challenge as US President Donald Trump announced a 36% tariff on Thai imports. Dr. Santitarn Sathienthai, a member of Thailand’s Monetary Policy Committee, suggests the urgent creation of a “war room” to tackle the potential economic fallout. Posting on Facebook, Dr. Santitarn, an adviser to the Thailand Development Research Institute, described the tariffs as an economic "earthquake" with severe global aftershocks. Many countries could erect tariff barriers, leading to deteriorating global trade. The American market has become restrictive, making exports difficult. Consequently, countries, including Thailand, are keen to shift focus to other markets, intensifying competition. Goods from other regions might flood Thailand, complicating the economic landscape. Although Vietnam faces a steeper 46% tariff, the Thai economy might see delayed investment from Chinese firms avoiding the US-China trade conflict. Negotiations could alter tariff levels, but the uncertainty is causing worldwide business hesitation, impacting investment immediately. Dr. Santitarn warns that Trump's tariffs may impact Thailand's economy more than anticipated. He called for an urgent “war room” involving public and private sectors to strategize and mitigate risks. Businesses must adapt their strategies to identify opportunities amidst the crisis, as the economic impact might extend over the long term, reported Thai News Room. -- 2025-04-03

Pictures courtesy of Matichon Thailand faces global scrutiny after the new State Audit Office (SAO) building in Bangkok collapsed, setting grim world records: it's the tallest building to fall in an earthquake and the furthest from an epicenter to suffer such a fate. The March 28 earthquake in Myanmar caused severe tremors, tragically affecting the SAO building, with many deaths and injuries reported, and workers still missing. Serious questions about Thailand's building safety standards and disaster readiness have emerged. On April 2, Professor Pen-Nung Wanichchai, Earthquake Research Centre Director, explained that Bangkok's soft soil intensified the tremors by three to four times. Combined with low-frequency waves affecting tall buildings more, this led to the SAO’s downfall. International experts confirmed the building set disconcerting records. Prof. Pen-Nung stressed that although this is a dubious distinction, it showcases the vulnerability of Thailand's infrastructure. Despite laws requiring seismic-resistant designs for tall buildings, the collapse suggests serious enforcement issues. Thailand's slow SMS-based earthquake warning system failed to alert citizens promptly. Prof. Pen-Nung and Associate Professor Seri Supratid of Rangsit University called for a comprehensive review of disaster preparedness, focusing on improving building designs and public education on emergency response. The tragedy exposed major gaps in safety protocols and awareness, prompting experts to urge immediate government action. As Bangkok seeks to rebuild, it's vital that these lessons inspire more resilient structures and an effective warning system for future seismic events, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-03

Thailand Introduces 'Retirement Lottery' to Boost Savings Pictures courtesy of iStock Thailand’s Parliament unanimously approved a new initiative to boost retirement savings through a unique lottery scheme. The bill amending the National Savings Fund (NSF) Act 2011 was passed on April 2, during a session led by Deputy House Speaker Pichet Chuamuangpan. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356674-thailand-introduces-retirement-lottery-to-boost-savings/

Pictures courtesy of iStock Thailand’s Parliament unanimously approved a new initiative to boost retirement savings through a unique lottery scheme. The bill amending the National Savings Fund (NSF) Act 2011 was passed on April 2, during a session led by Deputy House Speaker Pichet Chuamuangpan. Deputy Finance Minister Paopoom Rojanasakul highlighted the growing concern over Thailand’s ageing population, which outpaces neighboring countries. Many elderly Thais face financial difficulties due to inadequate savings. To address this, the government proposed a "retirement lottery" to encourage saving habits among citizens. Recognizing the popularity of lotteries in Thailand, the government aims to steer gambling enthusiasm towards savings. Under the plan, citizens can buy NSF lottery tickets for 50 baht each through a mobile app, with weekly draws conducted by the Government Lottery Office (GLO). Winners receive cash prizes directly into their bank accounts, while non-winning participants accumulate savings. Once they reach 60 years old, participants can access their initial investment along with any returns. The government plans to allocate 700 million baht for annual lottery prizes. The initiative is expected to generate 13 billion baht in savings each year for the next decade. MPs suggested enhancing the scheme by allowing early access to funds for medical expenses and increasing prize amounts to attract more participants. Concerns were raised about ensuring a guaranteed minimum return on investments, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-03

File photo for reference only As Vietnam’s national holiday from April 30 to May 4 approaches, airfares to popular domestic destinations have spiked, with many peak-time flights already sold out. Travelers are facing significantly higher prices due to high demand across local tourist routes. Popular routes such as Hà Nội-Phú Quốc show one-way ticket prices ranging from VNĐ2.1 million to VNĐ4.6 million (approximately US$80-180) for the holiday period, with return flights even more costly, between VNĐ4.1 million and VNĐ6.3 million ($160-245). Limited direct flight seats are available, and passengers have options to transit through Ho Chi Minh City. For Hà Nội to Nha Trang, ticket prices are between VNĐ1.9 million and VNĐ3.8 million ($75-150), but direct flight options back to Hanoi are largely unavailable on Vietnam Airlines. Alternative business and economy options remain with Bamboo Airways and Vietjet Air. Direct flights from Hà Nội to Đà Nẵng during convenient hours with Vietnam Airlines are mostly sold out. However, Vietjet Air and Bamboo Airways offer economy seats starting at VNĐ1.9 million, and return flights cost between VNĐ2 million and VNĐ2.5 million ($78-97). To accommodate heightened travel demands, local airlines plan to increase domestic flights by 24%, offering more than 7,500 flights, equating to around 1.5 million seats over the five-day holiday. Notably, over 1,200 additional flights have been scheduled between Hà Nội and Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam's capital and its largest economic hub. Despite the increase, ticket prices remain elevated, influenced by factors such as fuel costs, which represent 30-40% of airfare structures. Although aviation fuel prices are currently about 10.5% lower than the previous year, at approximately US$89 per barrel, other market forces and fluctuations can impact fare trends. According to a representative from the Civil Aviation Authority of Việt Nam (CAAV), while reduced fuel prices and the recovering global air transport market suggest potential for lower fares by 2025, unexpected political and economic changes can lead to price fluctuations. The CAAV highlights the impact of high demand during peak holiday seasons, which strains capacity and results in higher ticket prices. Efforts are underway to manage market balance by enhancing airline operational capacity and monitoring booking numbers and pricing trends to inform operational strategies. By coordinating closely with airlines, the CAAV seeks to ensure efficient operations and minimize passenger inconveniences during this peak travel period, reported Vietnam News. -- 2025-04-02

Photo: Nhan Dan In Myanmar's disaster-stricken Zabuthiri town, an international rescue team continues to brave challenging conditions as they work to recover victims from recent building collapses. Among their poignant discoveries was the body of a 14-year-old boy, retrieved from beneath the rubble and returned to local authorities and the boy's family for proper respects. The team, dispatched to aid in this crisis, initially operated at a four-story guesthouse in the area where, on the night of March 31, they recovered the body of a 10-year-old boy. Both instances underscore the tragedy that has unfolded following the seismic activity in the region. Colonel Nguyen Minh Khuong, who leads the operation as Deputy Director of the Department of Fire Prevention and Fighting, and Rescue, highlighted the significant challenges faced by his team. Among these are language barriers, severe weather, and tough living conditions. Nevertheless, he assures that the team's resolve to aid Myanmar has remained steadfast. Despite the numerous obstacles, Khuong underlined their tireless commitment to finding survivors amidst the wreckage. Each moment is seized with the hope of rescuing those trapped, reflecting the team's unwavering dedication to support the people of Myanmar during this dire period. The international community watches with empathy, acknowledging the bravery and persistence of these rescuers in the face of such adversity, reported Nhan Dan. -- 2025-04-02

Photo: VN Express In central Vietnam's Quang Nam Province, police have identified two South Korean tourists caught on video riding large motorcycles hands-free, an act considered reckless and unsafe. The video, shared on social media, attracted significant public attention and led to police intervention. The Quang Nam Provincial Traffic Police Department announced that the tourists have been booked for administrative violations for "releasing both hands while driving." As part of the enforcement, their vehicle documents and motorcycles have been temporarily seized. The incident occurred on the afternoon of March 29, when the tourists borrowed motorcycles from a local in Da Nang City and rode into Quang Nam Province. While traveling on Vo Chi Cong Street in Thang Binh District, they attracted bystanders' attention by removing both hands from the handlebars. This risky manoeuvre was captured and shared online, prompting swift police verification and identification of the individuals involved. Subsequently, both the riders and the owner of the motorcycles have been summoned for further investigation. This case underscores the importance of adhering to traffic regulations and maintaining safety on the roads, especially for tourists unfamiliar with local laws, reported VN Express. -- 2025-04-02

Photo: PhilStar The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) Calabarzon reported that a grassfire on the southwest portion of Taal Volcano in Batangas was successfully extinguished 21 hours after it began. The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) in San Nicolas declared the fire under control by 8:42 a.m. on April 2 and fully extinguished by 9:05 a.m. The blaze impacted approximately three to five hectares of grassland. Grassfires are notably quick to spread, especially during the dry season, affecting low plants and dry patches. The Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (MDRRMC) of Talisay noted that such fires can be instigated by cigarettes, uncontrolled fires, or intense heat, posing threats to nearby homes and the environment. Initial observations of this incident were made by the Phivolcs at around 11:24 a.m. on April 1. The Binintiang Munti (VTBM) Observation Station and IP camera at CTAG in Agoncillo captured the fire spread. This isn't the first grassfire on Taal Volcano Island. Previous fires on March 3, 2023, and May 2, 2024, were linked to kindling from on-site cooking activities—a likely cause of these incidents, according to Mariton Bornas of Phivolcs. Given this history, Bornas urged those visiting for tasks like guarding fish pens to bring pre-cooked meals to mitigate fire risks enhanced by rising temperatures and dry conditions. The latest fire had no major impact on monitoring systems, though one camera casing was damaged, with its device remaining operational. Protecting such equipment is crucial as Taal Volcano is currently under Alert Level 1, indicating low-level unrest with potential for steam-driven explosions, volcanic quakes, and minor ashfall. Public entry to Taal Volcano Island's permanent danger zone remains forbidden, along with activities such as boating on Taal Lake. The public is cautioned against accessing restricted areas to avoid hazards. Authorities continue investigating the latest fire's cause, emphasizing stringent caution during the dry season, reported PhilStar. -- 2025-04-02

File photo for reference only Bonifacio Global City (BGC) in Taguig has announced plans to pursue legal action against YouTuber Vitaly Zdorovetskiy following his disruptive behaviour captured in a recent video. The video displays Zdorovetskiy engaging in unsettling interactions, including an incident where he approaches a woman, suggests he wants to rob her, then clarifies he intends to give her money. His comments carry an aggressive tone, further escalated by derogatory language regarding the woman's use of a Covid mask. In another clip, Zdorovetskiy is seen snatching a cap from a security guard, adding to the series of inappropriate actions. BGC issued a statement acknowledging the multiple reports of disruptive incidents involving the YouTuber within its premises. "We are actively coordinating with the appropriate authorities and are pursuing necessary legal measures to address the situation," the statement read. The estate management stressed that ensuring safety and well-being within BGC is a primary commitment. They continue to collaborate with local authorities to maintain security and uphold the area's decorum. The legal pursuit underscores BGC's dedication to a safe environment by holding individuals accountable for behaviour that threatens public peace, reported Manila Bulletin. -- 2025-04-02

File photo for reference only Malacañang has reassured the public of its preparedness to repatriate approximately 250,000 Filipinos in Taiwan should tensions with China escalate. This assurance follows Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief General Romeo Brawner's call for military readiness in anticipation of potential spillover effects from a conflict in Taiwan. Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro addressed the public's concerns during a press briefing on April 2, underscoring that Brawner's statement was a prudent measure for preparedness. "In our assessment, the public should not be alarmed about this," she stated, emphasizing the importance of readiness among troops and citizens alike. While further details about potential scenarios for Filipinos in Taiwan are to be provided by the Department of National Defense (DND) and the AFP, Castro assured that the government is fully prepared for repatriation efforts if necessary. She reiterated the importance of vigilance, stating, "We are always ready. As AFP Chief Romeo Brawner said, we should always be prepared for any contingency." Encouraging calm among Filipinos in Taiwan, Castro emphasized the government's commitment to their welfare. "Stay put," she advised, affirming the government's readiness to provide assistance at any time. This assurance highlights the Philippines' commitment to safeguarding its citizens abroad amidst geopolitical uncertainties in the region, reported Manila Bulletin. -- 2025-04-02

Chiang Mai Battles Severe Air Pollution Amidst Persistent Wildfires Picture courtesy of Panumet Tanraksa Chiang Mai is facing a severe air pollution crisis as wildfires continue to rage across its districts, with over 150 hotspots currently active. On April 1, thick smoke engulfed the northern province, notably affecting areas such as Hot, Chiang Dao, and Phrao with numerous fire flare-ups. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356578-chiang-mai-battles-severe-air-pollution-amidst-persistent-wildfires/

Picture courtesy of Panumet Tanraksa Chiang Mai is facing a severe air pollution crisis as wildfires continue to rage across its districts, with over 150 hotspots currently active. On April 1, thick smoke engulfed the northern province, notably affecting areas such as Hot, Chiang Dao, and Phrao with numerous fire flare-ups. Residents experienced irritation in their eyes and throats as Chiang Mai ranked as the world's third most polluted city. IQAir reported a PM2.5 concentration of 170 µg/m³, far surpassing the safe limit of 34.7 µg/m³, highlighting the urgent need for mitigation efforts. Local authorities have introduced measures to combat the haze, including operating fountains and water-spraying vehicles around the old city moat. Despite these efforts, PM2.5 levels in areas like Chiang Dao district soared to alarming heights of 240 µg/m³. In nearby Mae Hong Son, joint efforts successfully contained a fire near Ban Mae Sa Pe Tai in Khun Yuam district. Coordination between the Protected Areas Regional Office 16, Region 3 Forest Fire Control Centre, and the Royal Thai Air Force proved effective. Using BT-67 aircraft, guided by the fire control centre, they executed precise water drops over affected regions, although challenging terrain makes aerial firefighting crucial. Ekkawit Meepian, the provincial governor, has mobilised further resources, including helicopters and additional BT-67 aircraft, to tackle the persistent wildfires until conditions improve. Pornthep Charoensuebsakul, underscoring the significance of cooperation, called for sustained efforts across government agencies, private organisations, and the public to prevent forest and agricultural burning. "This collaborative effort aims to promote sustainable conservation initiatives to protect northern Thailand from future pollution challenges," he stated. As the region grapples with this environmental crisis, ongoing collaboration remains critical to restore air quality and ensure the safety and health of Chiang Mai's residents, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-02

Make-up Artist Transforms Viral Road Sweeper into Thai Film Icon Photo via TikTok/ @semyonrezchikov and Facebook/ Chatchai Peangapichart In a heartwarming twist of fate, a Bangkok road sweeper who went viral for her photogenic appeal has been transformed by a leading Thai make-up artist into a character from the famous film, Art of the Devil 2. The journey began when Russian photographer Semyon Rezchikov captured a stunning portrait of 28-year-old Noppajit "Meen" Somboonsate on Yaowarat Road, sharing it on TikTok and winning the admiration of viewers who saw potential in Meen as a model. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356577-make-up-artist-transforms-viral-road-sweeper-into-thai-film-icon/

Photo via TikTok/ @semyonrezchikov and Facebook/ Chatchai Peangapichart In a heartwarming twist of fate, a Bangkok road sweeper who went viral for her photogenic appeal has been transformed by a leading Thai make-up artist into a character from the famous film, Art of the Devil 2. The journey began when Russian photographer Semyon Rezchikov captured a stunning portrait of 28-year-old Noppajit "Meen" Somboonsate on Yaowarat Road, sharing it on TikTok and winning the admiration of viewers who saw potential in Meen as a model. The viral video led to widespread acclaim for Meen's natural beauty and charm, catching the eye of make-up artist Chatchai Peanfapichart, known as Nong Chat. On April 1, Nong Chat gave Meen a remarkable makeover, transforming her into the iconic character Panor, portrayed by Napakpapha "Mamee" Nakprasitte in the 2005 film. Panor's blend of beauty, sexiness, and mystery left a lasting impression on Thai audiences, and Meen's resemblance to Mamee in both looks and personality inspired this creative choice. The makeover involved a complete style overhaul, including make-up, hairstyle, and traditional Thai attire, accentuating Meen’s natural features. The result was met with enthusiastic acclaim online, with netizens praising Meen's strikingly enhanced beauty and drawing comparisons to her film counterpart. Comments poured in, lauding her as "gorgeous" and a "true Thai beauty." In addition to the makeover, Nong Chat enlisted Meen as a promoter for his new Browit brand product, sparking hopes for her continued presence in the entertainment industry. Meen, a single mother with two young sons, expressed surprise and gratitude for the unexpected attention and opportunities that followed her viral fame. This transformation from road sweeper to celebrated model highlights the magic of unexpected opportunities and the beauty of embracing one's potential, igniting aspirations for more career breakthroughs for Meen in the near future, reported The Thaiger. RELATED TOPIC: Bangkok Road Sweeper Becomes Online Model Sensation https://aseannow.com/topic/1354975-bangkok-road-sweeper-becomes-online-model-sensation/ -- 2025-04-02

Baiyoke Tower Heir Resolves Misinformation Dispute Amicably Photo courtesy of Thairath In an effort to quell public fear following false rumours about the Baiyoke Tower's condition after an earthquake, Piyalert "Beer" Baiyoke, heir to the iconic Bangkok skyscraper, has resolved an issue concerning misinformation on Facebook. The claim, suggesting the tower was tilting and cracking, was baseless yet stirred significant concern. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356576-baiyoke-tower-heir-resolves-misinformation-dispute-amicably/

Photo courtesy of Thairath In an effort to quell public fear following false rumours about the Baiyoke Tower's condition after an earthquake, Piyalert "Beer" Baiyoke, heir to the iconic Bangkok skyscraper, has resolved an issue concerning misinformation on Facebook. The claim, suggesting the tower was tilting and cracking, was baseless yet stirred significant concern. Beer Baiyoke initially planned legal action against the individual responsible for the post, who responded provocatively when contacted. However, public backlash against the spreader for their behaviour led to an eventual change in the user's demeanour. While abroad with his family, Beer announced via social media that he had decided to drop legal proceedings after the user sincerely apologised. Beer explained, "Even if I won the lawsuit, I would have donated the money anyway." Expressing gratitude to his legal team and police, Beer requested that the Facebook user donate to a children's hospital, emphasizing ongoing philanthropic efforts. "We often make donations to children, so consider this a bridge for charity," he stated, drawing a positive closure to the episode. This resolution not only dispels any remaining fears about Baiyoke Tower's integrity but also highlights an opportunity for goodwill, allowing Beer to focus on quality family time during his travels, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-02

Influencer Condemns Assault at Shelter for Earthquake Victims in Bangkok Photo via Facebook/ กันจอมพลัง ช่วยสู้ A distressing incident marred efforts to support relatives of earthquake victims today in Bangkok, where a Thai social media influencer condemned a drunk man for sexually assaulting a victim's relative at a temporary shelter. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356575-influencer-condemns-assault-at-shelter-for-earthquake-victims-in-bangkok/

Photo via Facebook/ กันจอมพลัง ช่วยสู้ A distressing incident marred efforts to support relatives of earthquake victims today in Bangkok, where a Thai social media influencer condemned a drunk man for sexually assaulting a victim's relative at a temporary shelter. This shelter, established in response to the tragic building collapse in the Chatuchak area due to the Myanmar earthquake's aftershocks, has provided refuge for relatives of the 15 deceased construction workers, with 72 still missing. Many relatives, having traveled from other provinces, lack the means for accommodation, prompting Guntouch "Gun" Pongpaiboonwet to act. Gun, an influencer, coordinated with JJ Mall near Chatuchak Weekend Market to offer air-conditioned tents with beds and essentials. However, the situation turned grim when an unnamed drunk Thai man exploited the chaos to sexually assault a vulnerable relative within the shelter. Gun addressed the incident on his Facebook page around midnight, April 2, condemning the act and revealing his anger towards the suspect. "My shelter doesn’t welcome this kind of person," Gun declared, describing the assailant as a "drunk and disgusting homeless man." The man also attempted to harm a member of Gun's team, prompting Gun to personally remove him. Witnesses and team members reportedly confronted the suspect before Gun's intervention. Through his post, Gun warned against similar misconduct at his shelter, implying severe consequences for repeat offenders. It remains unclear if the incident was reported to the police, although legal repercussions for such an offense include imprisonment between four to 20 years and fines from 80,000 to 400,000 baht under Section 276 of the Criminal Law. Meanwhile, investigations continue into the building collapse. The Department of Special Investigation (DSI) is probing potential contractor corruption involving China Railway Number 10 (CREC No.10). Search operations, aided by K-9 units, persist in hopes of finding survivors amidst the rubble, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-02

Safety Concerns Arise Over New Songkhla Hospital Building Amid Past Contractor Issues Concerns have surfaced regarding the construction safety of a new outpatient building at Songkhla Hospital, especially given the involvement of China Railway No. 10. This Chinese company was previously linked to a building collapse at the Office of the Auditor General following an earthquake on March 28. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356574-safety-concerns-arise-over-new-songkhla-hospital-building-amid-past-contractor-issues/

Concerns have surfaced regarding the construction safety of a new outpatient building at Songkhla Hospital, especially given the involvement of China Railway No. 10. This Chinese company was previously linked to a building collapse at the Office of the Auditor General following an earthquake on March 28. The 426 million baht project has attracted public scrutiny, with shared images on social media amplifying unease regarding construction standards. The contractor's past incident casts doubt over their ability to meet essential safety regulations. In response to these apprehensions, Songkhla representative Sanphet Boonyamanee, along with Dr Songkran Maichum, provincial public health doctor, and hospital director Dr Rattanapol Lorprasitkul, conducted a site visit. Accompanied by an engineering team, they assessed the safety assurances from the supervising engineers. They confirmed that the nine-storey building has been designed to withstand earthquakes and complies with all safety standards. Funded by the Ministry of Public Health with a substantial budget of over 426 million baht, the project is vital for the region's medical infrastructure. Sanphet, underscoring his responsibility as a community representative, affirmed his impartial stance and dedication to project transparency. He pledged to closely monitor the construction to ensure adherence to safety protocols, addressing public concerns. While local authorities express confidence in achieving the necessary safety benchmarks, the choice of contractor remains a point of contention. Nevertheless, officials are optimistic that the new hospital facility will be both secure and beneficial, providing essential healthcare services to the community without compromising safety. -- 2025-04-02

Songkhla Eyes Cruise Port to Attract Affluent Tourists In an ambitious move to elevate Songkhla as a prime destination for cruise tourists, the local Chamber of Commerce has proposed developing a dedicated cruise port. This initiative aims to attract affluent Western travellers while maintaining its allure for traditional visitors from Malaysia and Singapore. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356573-songkhla-eyes-cruise-port-to-attract-affluent-tourists/

In an ambitious move to elevate Songkhla as a prime destination for cruise tourists, the local Chamber of Commerce has proposed developing a dedicated cruise port. This initiative aims to attract affluent Western travellers while maintaining its allure for traditional visitors from Malaysia and Singapore. Songphon Changsiriwattanathamrong, president of the Chamber of Commerce, presented this bold vision during Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra's visit in February. He called on the Marine Department to design the port, a step that could significantly enhance local tourism prospects overlooking the Gulf of Thailand. Songkhla's current lack of a cruise port means missing out on lucrative travel routes, particularly from Singapore, a bustling cruise hub. Encouraging developments include government backing and interest from the Singapore Tourism Board, with delegates exploring Songkhla’s cultural offerings. The province’s Old Town, steeped in history and culture, is poised to be a key attraction, enticing cruise lines to include Songkhla in their itineraries. Songchai Mungprasitthichai of the Songkhla Tourism Promotion Association envisions a route where cruises, typically visiting Koh Samui, could soon anchor in Songkhla, drawing a wave of high-end tourists. Reflecting on a successful period between 1998 and 2001, when smaller cruises brought shoppers and sightseers to Songkhla, Songchai sees the potential for a tourism renaissance. With a focus on attracting Western tourists, the proposed port could transform regional tourism dynamics. Songphon highlights plans to enhance local services and skills, preparing Songkhla to welcome this new market. With cruises charting courses from Singapore through the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea, Songkhla's future as a cruise hotspot looks increasingly promising, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-02

Family Feud Over Inheritance Leads to Assault in Surat Thani Photo via Channel 7 A heated family inheritance dispute turned violent in Surat Thani, with a Thai man accused of physically assaulting his mother. Accusations have flown after the man claimed she mismanaged family assets following their father’s death, spending them with her new husband. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356571-family-feud-over-inheritance-leads-to-assault-in-surat-thani/

Photo via Channel 7 A heated family inheritance dispute turned violent in Surat Thani, with a Thai man accused of physically assaulting his mother. Accusations have flown after the man claimed she mismanaged family assets following their father’s death, spending them with her new husband. The mother took to social media, posting videos of her son attacking her outside her home, which subsequently went viral after being reshared by the popular Facebook page Esor News. The footage shows her son aggressively confronting her, kicking her, and in a separate clip, pulling her shirt off while wielding a knife and wooden stick. In an emotional post, she expressed heartbreak, stating her hopes for her children’s care were shattered by aggression instead. Her ex-husband died last July, and with inheritance matters unresolved, tensions have simmered. Although she later deleted the post, it drew widespread attention. The mother told Channel 7 that after her husband’s death, she managed his estate and moved out with a new partner. Although she drafted a will for her children and grandchildren, her son and daughter were dissatisfied, resorting to harassment and violence. To protect herself, she placed a sign outside banning them from the property, also alerting neighbours to her safety concerns. However, the son disputes his mother’s claims, alleging he and his sister seek future security for their children rather than personal gain. He accused his mother of unfairly allocating assets and spending the family’s money with her new partner soon after his father's passing. Claims of his sister’s assault at the hands of their mother further fueled his anger, he said, leading to the day’s confrontation. In the aftermath, both parties lodged complaints, yet police have kept details of the case close to the vest, not disclosing specifics publicly. The unfolding drama highlights the complexities and emotional toll inherent in family disputes over inheritance, with legal ramifications likely to follow, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-02

Phuket Prepares for Alcohol-Free Songkran Festivities on April 13 Photo courtesy of The Phuket News Phuket is set to host its annual alcohol-free Songkran festival next Sunday, April 13, offering a vibrant celebration of traditional activities, cultural performances, and live music in a family-friendly environment. This event not only commemorates Songkran's cultural heritage but also supports local tourism and businesses. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356570-phuket-prepares-for-alcohol-free-songkran-festivities-on-april-13/