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People’s Party Apologises After Candidate Arrested for Drug Trafficking Photo via Facebook/ สถานีตำรวจนครบาลมีนบุรี The People’s Party has issued a public apology following the arrest of one of its members, who is a candidate in the imminent Samut Prakan Municipal Council election, on charges of drug trafficking. The incident occurred on 7th May when Min Buri Police Station officers executed a crackdown on the Boon Raksa drug trafficking gang, apprehending four suspects and seizing a substantial stash of narcotics. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360139-people’s-party-apologises-after-candidate-arrested-for-drug-trafficking/

Photo via Facebook/ สถานีตำรวจนครบาลมีนบุรี The People’s Party has issued a public apology following the arrest of one of its members, who is a candidate in the imminent Samut Prakan Municipal Council election, on charges of drug trafficking. The incident occurred on 7th May when Min Buri Police Station officers executed a crackdown on the Boon Raksa drug trafficking gang, apprehending four suspects and seizing a substantial stash of narcotics. Among those arrested were 27-year-old Apiwat, 36-year-old Panupong, 34-year-old Sarayut, and 33-year-old Suthee. Notably, Panupong was running as a candidate for the Samut Prakan municipal council election representing the People’s Party. The seized narcotics included 480,000 methamphetamine pills (Yaba), 1,089 grammes of crystal meth, and 1,000 grammes of ketamine. Collectively, the suspects face severe charges of jointly distributing categories of 1 and 2 narcotics. These charges under the Narcotics Act carry potential penalties of up to 20 years in prison and fines reaching two million baht. The dramatic arrest drew public attention when a Facebook page, titled "วันนี้พรรคส้มโกหกอะไร" (translating to “What did the Orange Party lie about today?”), shared the news, spurring widespread criticism. In response, the official People’s Party Facebook page in Samut Prakan released an apologetic statement. The statement expressed the party's regret over the serious nature of the charges and indicated that Panupong would need to withdraw from the election to allow due legal processes to unfold. Although the party has not expelled Panupong at this stage, it clarified that his membership would be revoked if he is found guilty in court. This response, however, has not quashed concerns about the candidate vetting process, with some social media users calling for heightened accountability from party leader Natthaphong “Teng” Ruengpanyawut. Despite this, others within the party's base have lauded the transparency and accountability demonstrated by the People's Party in addressing the issue. This scandal adds to the string of controversies plaguing the party. Previous instances include allegations of sexual assault against former MP Chaiyamparwaan Manpianjit and former member Nateepat Kulsetthasith's drink-driving scandal, both of which have challenged the party's image and integrity in the public eye. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-08

Tourist Fined for Risky Elephant Encounter in Khao Yai National Park Picture courtesy of Channel 7 A thrill-seeking tourist recently received a fine for recklessly getting too close to a wild elephant at Khao Yai National Park, underscoring ongoing safety challenges in the popular tourist destination. The incident occurred on 7th May when the tourist and his group, who were travelling from Thailand’s eastern region, stopped to snap selfies with the elephant wandering along the road. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360138-tourist-fined-for-risky-elephant-encounter-in-khao-yai-national-park/

Picture courtesy of Channel 7 A thrill-seeking tourist recently received a fine for recklessly getting too close to a wild elephant at Khao Yai National Park, underscoring ongoing safety challenges in the popular tourist destination. The incident occurred on 7th May when the tourist and his group, who were travelling from Thailand’s eastern region, stopped to snap selfies with the elephant wandering along the road. Flouting national park guidelines that urge visitors to maintain a safe distance, the entourage stepped out of their vehicle to pose merely metres from the sizeable beast. This bold move not only breached park safety rules but also jeopardised their safety. Park rangers, unimpressed by the tourists' antics, imposed a 500-baht fine on the main offender the following day. Alongside the financial penalty, the visitor received a stern warning to avoid such perilous encounters in the future. Sarut Phiraksa, Assistant Chief of Khao Yai National Park, reiterated essential safety advice for park visitors. “If you encounter an elephant, please stay at least 50 metres away and wait for an official. Getting close puts yourself and others in serious danger,” he advised. Sarut further emphasised that stopping on the roadside to approach wildlife is prohibited. Both sides of the road are off-limits due to safety reasons, protecting both humans and the animals from potential harm. He cautioned, "There are currently many visitors and elephant enthusiasts. Please don’t take close-up pictures of wild elephants. This kind of behaviour endangers lives. We want everyone to enjoy the park safely and happily." This incident is not an isolated one; tourists have continually underestimated the risks of approaching Thailand’s formidable elephants, despite repeated warnings from authorities about the dangers posed by these powerful creatures. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-08

Bangkok Swat Team Busts Gun-Modifying Duo Selling Illegally Online File photo for reference only A Swat team in Bangkok has successfully apprehended two suspects accused of illegally modifying and selling firearms online, following a decisive raid on a home in the Suan Luang district. The men, Natthakiat (known as New, age 29) and Suppasit (known as Peach, age 31), were taken into custody on Thursday, as confirmed by the Department of Provincial Administration (DOPA). Their full surnames remain undisclosed. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360137-bangkok-swat-team-busts-gun-modifying-duo-selling-illegally-online/

File photo for reference only A Swat team in Bangkok has successfully apprehended two suspects accused of illegally modifying and selling firearms online, following a decisive raid on a home in the Suan Luang district. The men, Natthakiat (known as New, age 29) and Suppasit (known as Peach, age 31), were taken into custody on Thursday, as confirmed by the Department of Provincial Administration (DOPA). Their full surnames remain undisclosed. This operation was initiated after local community members lodged complaints about the suspects' online activity, specifically the posting of weapon and ammunition images for sale on Facebook. Director-General Chaiwat Chuntirapong of the department under the Interior Ministry highlighted that not only were these images causing alarm, but the suspects had also been seen carrying firearms in public, instilling fear among the residents. Investigations revealed Natthakiat's checkered past; he had been released from prison in 2019 after serving a sentence related to drug offences. Post-release, he claimed to have turned to selling vintage clothes and accessories, though this also involved weapons trafficking via social media, according to Mr. Chaiwat. The illegal arsenal included modified blank guns and ammunition, marketed at various price points from several thousands to tens of thousands of baht. The suspects admitted to engaging in the trade of purchasing, altering, and reselling these firearms over the past year. Their customer base predominantly comprised technical student gangs, known for their involvement in violent and potentially lethal altercations. Both suspects now face initial charges of possessing and modifying weapons without the legal permits, a serious violation underscored by Mr. Chaiwat. This crackdown is part of a broader effort to curb the illegal trade and trafficking of firearms, especially given the rising concerns associated with such weapons falling into the hands of young gangs across the city. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-05-08

Surat Thani Police on Hunt for Woman Accused of 3 Million Baht Ticket Fraud Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Police in Surat Thani have ramped up efforts to capture a woman allegedly involved in a large-scale ticket fraud operation, affecting over 50 individuals and totalling damages of more than 3 million baht. An arrest warrant was issued for Kaewta Chookhao on 7th May, following investigations into the fraudulent sale of airline tickets. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360136-surat-thani-police-on-hunt-for-woman-accused-of-3-million-baht-ticket-fraud/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Police in Surat Thani have ramped up efforts to capture a woman allegedly involved in a large-scale ticket fraud operation, affecting over 50 individuals and totalling damages of more than 3 million baht. An arrest warrant was issued for Kaewta Chookhao on 7th May, following investigations into the fraudulent sale of airline tickets. According to Police Major General Sermpan Sirikhong, commander of Surat Thani provincial police, the suspect deceived victims by promising discounted airline tickets for both domestic and international travel. Many trusted her claims and transferred substantial sums of money, only to realise the tickets were invalid when attempting to use them. The case has drawn substantial attention, involving approximately 50 victims with financial losses estimated at 3,672,890 baht (US$112,390). Complaints have been filed at Bo Phut Police Station and other local stations, launching a comprehensive investigation. At the national level, Police General Kittirat Phanphet and Lieutenant General Surapong Thanomchit have urged swift action to secure Kaewta's arrest. The charges she faces centre on public fraud, a serious offence carrying heavy penalties, reflecting the significant financial distress inflicted on the victims. Authorities are determined to capture Kaewta promptly to investigate further, as there may be additional victims or accomplices linked to this fraudulent scheme. Police Major General Sermpan affirmed that any further evidence of complicity will be met with stringent legal action. Today, Lieutenant Colonel Sirachat Kamuni from Bo Phut Police Station has collected evidence to secure an arrest warrant from the Koh Samui provincial court. The court promptly approved warrant number 134/2568, dated 7th May, which has been circulated to police stations and immigration offices across the nation. The Surat Thani provincial police, alongside the Bo Phut investigation team, are redoubling their efforts to apprehend Kaewta and delve deeper into the case. Police Major General Sermpan has urged the suspect to surrender voluntarily, asserting that evasion will ultimately prove futile as law enforcement agencies close in on those responsible. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-08

Senate Committee Seeks PM's Insight on Casino Bill as Confusion Reigns Photo courtesy of Bloomberg News The special Senate committee reviewing the controversial casino-entertainment complex bill in Thailand is contemplating inviting Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra to discuss the bill's intentions next week. Led by Senator Veerapun Suvannamai, the committee plans its second session today, following the initial meeting on April 23. Despite prior rumours, Dr Veerapun clarified that the Prime Minister was not expected at today's meeting. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360135-senate-committee-seeks-pms-insight-on-casino-bill-as-confusion-reigns/

Photo courtesy of Bloomberg News The special Senate committee reviewing the controversial casino-entertainment complex bill in Thailand is contemplating inviting Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra to discuss the bill's intentions next week. Led by Senator Veerapun Suvannamai, the committee plans its second session today, following the initial meeting on April 23. Despite prior rumours, Dr Veerapun clarified that the Prime Minister was not expected at today's meeting. Confusion ensued regarding the meeting's agenda, with Dr Veerapun expressing surprise over leaked details, noting the agenda's finalisation is pending. The notion of inviting an "outsider," potentially including the Prime Minister or pertinent ministers, is reserved for the upcoming meeting on May 15, aiming to garner more comprehensive insights into the proposed casino-entertainment initiative. Today's session primarily aims to establish a study framework and form sub-committees, with project evaluation expected to take 180 days. Sources assert the creation of at least two sub-committees focusing on the economic and social impacts of the project. The government has deferred the casino-entertainment complex bill to the next parliamentary session, beginning 2nd July. Originally destined for discussion in the House of Representatives on 9th April, the bill faced opposition on its fast-tracked process. Critics have forewarned that persistently advocating the bill might breach ethical boundaries. Tourism industry leaders have voiced concerns that legalising casinos and online gambling might deter Chinese tourists—a vital market for Thailand. These concerns were raised during a recent censure debate targeting the Thai Prime Minister. The opposition People's Party has argued that gambling legalisation was never promised by the ruling Pheu Thai Party during election campaigns. They warn that such moves might jeopardise Thailand's tourism sector by dissuading Chinese visitors, given potential disapproval from the Chinese government towards gambling legalisation. The unfolding debate reflects broader anxieties over Thailand's tourism reliance and ethical governance, as the government navigates these sensitive waters with economic and social stakes at hand. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-08

Thai Airways Warns of Delays Due to Pakistan-India Airspace Closure File photo for reference only Thai Airways International (THAI) has advised passengers flying on South Asian and European routes to verify their flight details amidst ongoing airspace closures at the Pakistan-India border. This alert follows geopolitical tensions between the two nations, impacting some of THAI's flight paths. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360134-thai-airways-warns-of-delays-due-to-pakistan-india-airspace-closure/

File photo for reference only Thai Airways International (THAI) has advised passengers flying on South Asian and European routes to verify their flight details amidst ongoing airspace closures at the Pakistan-India border. This alert follows geopolitical tensions between the two nations, impacting some of THAI's flight paths. As of Wednesday night, THAI announced that while flights between Thailand and India remain unaffected, routes to Pakistan could face disruptions. Passengers travelling to European destinations should anticipate flights being extended by 30 to 40 minutes due to necessary adjustments to avoid restricted airspace. Notably, THAI operates routes to Lahore, Islamabad, and Karachi in Pakistan. However, travel to these destinations is currently impacted by the closure, anticipated to persist until Saturday. For the most current updates, THAI urges travellers to consult updates via the airline's Facebook page or contact THAI's call centre at 02-356-1111 within Thailand. Additionally, international passengers can reach out to the global contact centre at (+1) 647 492 4490. This rerouting is part of broader measures adopted by THAI and other airlines in response to the rising conflict that began when India conducted airstrikes in Pakistan and subsequently, Pakistani forces downed some Indian aircraft. The situation underscores how geopolitical conflicts can substantially disrupt international flight schedules and operations. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-05-08

Karaoke Bar in Mae Chan Raided for Hiring Underage Girls Picture courtesy of KhaoSod In a significant crackdown on illegal activities, police and administrative officials raided a karaoke bar in Mae Chan, situated along Phahon Yothin Road, due to suspicions of human trafficking involving a 15-year-old girl. This event has spotlighted serious concerns about the exploitation of minors in the entertainment industry. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360133-karaoke-bar-in-mae-chan-raided-for-hiring-underage-girls/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod In a significant crackdown on illegal activities, police and administrative officials raided a karaoke bar in Mae Chan, situated along Phahon Yothin Road, due to suspicions of human trafficking involving a 15-year-old girl. This event has spotlighted serious concerns about the exploitation of minors in the entertainment industry. On 7th May, Police Colonel Kiattisak Jitprasarn, head of Mae Chan Police Station, reacted swiftly to a report from the 191 patrol police. This report was compiled with the aid of Mae Chan district investigators, Chiang Rai’s administrative division, and related agencies, leading to a swift raid at the Mei Mei Karaoke K.T.U. The operation took place late in the evening after reports surfaced indicating underage girls were attending to patrons. Upon entry, authorities discovered two young girls engaged in serving drinks and singing with customers. Subsequent investigations revealed that the karaoke bar owner admitted to employing minors, offering a meagre daily wage of 100 baht (around US$3), with an additional hourly rate of 150 baht (about US$4.5) for entertaining visitors. As a result, the police have filed several serious charges against the owner: operating a service establishment without due permission, promoting inappropriate conduct amongst minors, hiring individuals under the age of 18 without notifying law enforcement, and permitting underage employment during prohibited night hours. Looking ahead, a multidisciplinary team is tasked with interviewing the young victims to determine whether the infractions extend to human trafficking. Should evidence support these suspicions, further charges will be legally pursued. In the interim, the owner remains in custody, pending deeper legal scrutiny. This incident underscores the urgent need for vigilant enforcement of child protection laws and shines a light on the often-hidden abuses within certain sectors. It coincides with broader efforts to combat human trafficking across Thailand, aiming to uphold the rights and welfare of minors. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-08

Phuket Airport Set for Major Expansion, Aiming for 18 Million Annual Passengers Phuket is gearing up for a transformative leap in air travel capacity, as Airports of Thailand (AOT) propels forward with Phase 2 of its ambitious Phuket Airport Development Project. This expansion is designed to accommodate up to 18 million passengers annually, reinforcing Thailand's status as a central force in regional aviation. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360132-phuket-airport-set-for-major-expansion-aiming-for-18-million-annual-passengers/

Phuket is gearing up for a transformative leap in air travel capacity, as Airports of Thailand (AOT) propels forward with Phase 2 of its ambitious Phuket Airport Development Project. This expansion is designed to accommodate up to 18 million passengers annually, reinforcing Thailand's status as a central force in regional aviation. On 7th May, AOT facilitated the first public seminar at Splash Beach Resort in Phuket, drawing over 150 participants from government bodies, private sector entities, and local organisations. This gathering was crucial for discussing the project's key aims and anticipated benefits. Presiding over the seminar, Police Colonel Adul Chuthong, Deputy Governor of Phuket, emphasized the importance of collective input and cooperation for the project's triumph. He acknowledged Phuket’s global distinction as a sought-after marine tourism hub, supported by an integral international airport. "The progress of the Phuket Airport Development Project, Phase 2, will help accommodate the growing number of tourists and boost the local economy, improving the quality of life for residents," stated Pol. Col. Adul. Phuket Airport, currently handling 12.5 million passengers annually—including 5 million international and 7.5 million domestic—has been overstretched since 2019. The ongoing expansion is indispensable to address surging demands, stated Monchai Tanode, Director of Phuket Airport. "The new development will increase our capacity to 18 million passengers per year, with a particular focus on expanding the international terminal to handle 10.5 million passengers annually," Monchai elaborated. Planned advancements include the construction of seven additional aircraft parking bays adjacent to the terminal, alongside vast enhancements to the airport's traffic flow and utilities. These infrastructural improvements are anticipated to bolster travel ease, safety, and convenience, aligning with international quality benchmarks. Managed by AOT, the development project is under the consultancy of the P.K.A.C. group, which is responsible for extensive airside survey, terminal design refinement, and supportive systems implementation. Upon its completion, the newly expanded airport is poised to invigorate Thailand’s tourism, trade, and investment sectors, fortifying its image as a formidable regional aviation hub. This strategic development is expected to not only meet the growing traveler influx but also stimulate economic advancement, presenting new opportunities for local and international stakeholders alike. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-08

Phuket's Weekend Booze Ban: Elections and Visakha Bucha Day Prompt Crackdown Photo courtesy of The Nation Phuket's residents face a dry weekend, as dual alcohol bans take centre stage due to upcoming municipal elections and Visakha Bucha Day. These restrictions will mean localities across the island will see a significant reduction in alcohol availability. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360131-phukets-weekend-booze-ban-elections-and-visakha-bucha-day-prompt-crackdown/

Photo courtesy of The Nation Phuket's residents face a dry weekend, as dual alcohol bans take centre stage due to upcoming municipal elections and Visakha Bucha Day. These restrictions will mean localities across the island will see a significant reduction in alcohol availability. The ban kicks off from Saturday evening, 10th May, stretching through to Sunday evening, 11th May, running concurrently over 30 hours for election-related restrictions, and 24 hours in observance of Visakha Bucha Day, a revered Buddhist holiday. The areas most impacted by the prohibition include key hotspots like Phuket Town, Ratsada, Wichit, Rawai, and Patong, with further regions such as Chalong, Karon, Pa Khlok, and Kathu also subject to the ban. Notably, Srisoonthorn, Cherng Talay, and Thepkrasattri will also experience a cessation of alcohol sales within municipally controlled areas, though places like Kamala, Koh Kaew, and Mai Khao, under subdistrict jurisdiction, will circumvent these restrictions. The reason for aligning these bans during the same window is multifaceted. Primarily, it ensures the integrity and orderliness of the municipal elections, where selecting mayors and council members is pivotal. Election day, from 8 am to 5 pm on Sunday, is particularly sensitive to practices like "Kun Ma Horn" or "Night of the Howling Dogs," where vote-buying can flourish in the absence of strict measures. Historically, alcohol has played a role in such activities, prompting an enforced blackout on its sale to eliminate any undue influence. "The alcohol ban is a measure to ensure a fair election process," asserted ECT Phuket, underlining its role in sustaining a balanced election landscape. Meanwhile, Visakha Bucha Day commands its alcohol restriction nationwide, marking Buddha's birth, enlightenment, and passing. Police Major General Sinlert Sukhum, head of the Phuket Provincial Police, reiterated the decision: "No alcohol sales will be permitted in observance of the religious holiday." Violating either ban is a serious offence. Sellers ignore these rules at their peril, facing penalties of up to six months' incarceration, fines reaching 10,000 baht, or a combination of both. For those indulging in Phuket’s vibrant nightlife, it’s a weekend requiring a pause and reflection over the usual revelry. The ban's effects ripple beyond Sunday, with government offices shutting their doors on Monday, 12th May, marking a national substitution day holiday for Visakha Bucha Day, offering residents a contemplative end to an unusually sober weekend. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-08

Thai Teenager Missing for a Week: Family Appeals for Public's Help Photo via Facebook/ ปภัสสร ฯ. The mystery surrounding the disappearance of 17-year-old Naphatsorn “Namtan” Plerphukiao from Chachoengsao province has captured national attention, as today marks a week since she went missing. The young girl was last seen taking a taxi from her dormitory in Pathum Thani to Bangkok, before vanishing without a trace. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360129-thai-teenager-missing-for-a-week-family-appeals-for-publics-help/

Photo via Facebook/ ปภัสสร ฯ. The mystery surrounding the disappearance of 17-year-old Naphatsorn “Namtan” Plerphukiao from Chachoengsao province has captured national attention, as today marks a week since she went missing. The young girl was last seen taking a taxi from her dormitory in Pathum Thani to Bangkok, before vanishing without a trace. Namtan had been residing in Pathum Thani for an internship, leaving her dormitory at 12:06 am on 1st May. CCTV footage captured her entering an orange taxi, which she booked via a mobile app. The taxi reportedly took her to the Rama 3 area of Bangkok, yet the reason for the trip remains unclear. Crucially, Namtan did not take any personal belongings with her, apart from her mobile phone, indicating an unexpected departure. Her father, Boonlert Plerphukiao, has since travelled from Udon Thani to Bangkok in search of answers. He sought assistance from Channel 7, a Thai television network, in the hope of reaching a broader audience to aid the search. Meanwhile, the family has turned to social media to appeal for any information about Namtan's whereabouts, urging anyone with knowledge to come forward. The ride-hailing app revealed that after reaching Rama 3, Namtan arranged another taxi to Pattaya Walking Street. However, the driver cancelled the journey midway, suggesting her disappearance might have occurred in Chachoengsao province. In response, the family filed a missing person's report at Chulalongkorn Pratunam Police Station in Pathum Thani. Namtan left her accommodation on the orange taxi. | Photo via Facebook/ หนองวัวซอ อัปเดต ธีระแก๊ส Boonlert has frequently attempted to contact his daughter by phone, but all calls have gone unanswered. The family is desperately seeking information from the ride-hailing company about her last known trip in a bid to trace her steps. The police, along with Namtan's family, are hoping the public can provide crucial insights that might lead to her safe return. Namtan's family has invited anyone with information to contact them directly. Her father can be reached at 098-359-5216, and further contacts include her grandmother at 062-375-9349, or through her sister's Facebook account, ปภัสสร ฯ. Concerns over Namtan's safety are acute, with netizens speculating about potential conflicts that might have led her to cut contact. Nonetheless, the family has not disclosed any issues that could have prompted her disappearance. The focus remains squarely on finding Namtan and ensuring her wellbeing. As the days progress, the hope is that increased public attention will expedite her discovery and reunite her with her family. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-08

Covid-19 Resurgence in Thailand: Over 8,000 Cases Reported in a Week File photo for reference only Thailand is witnessing a worrying resurgence of Covid-19 cases, with over 8,446 hospital visits recorded between 27th April and 3rd May. This uptick in cases has been brought to attention by Assoc Prof Dr Thira Woratanarat, a respected public health expert from Chulalongkorn University. Bangkok has emerged as the epicentre of this latest wave, logging the highest number of new infections at 2,377, according to Dr Thira's recent analysis. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360125-covid-19-resurgence-in-thailand-over-8000-cases-reported-in-a-week/

File photo for reference only Thailand is witnessing a worrying resurgence of Covid-19 cases, with over 8,446 hospital visits recorded between 27th April and 3rd May. This uptick in cases has been brought to attention by Assoc Prof Dr Thira Woratanarat, a respected public health expert from Chulalongkorn University. Bangkok has emerged as the epicentre of this latest wave, logging the highest number of new infections at 2,377, according to Dr Thira's recent analysis. Following Bangkok, other areas with significant numbers include Chonburi with 680 cases, Nonthaburi reporting 490, Rayong with 380, and Samut Prakan recording 327 cases. This resurgence underscores a pivotal challenge as the country hoped to maintain control over the Covid-19 situation. One of the notable trends in this recent surge is the age distribution of those affected. The highest infection rates are among individuals aged 30 to 39 years, accounting for 1,794 cases. Close behind are those aged 20 to 29, with 1,540 cases. Crucially, older adults over 60 also figure prominently, recording 1,536 infections. However, it is the spike in cases among very young children, aged 0 to 4, that is raising special concern, with 682 cases identified. Dr Thira has highlighted these dynamics to alert public health officials and the general public about the broader implications of this trend. He pointed out that between 4th and 7th May, Covid-19 cases were roughly double the number of influenza cases, spotlighting the severity of the current outbreak. In this period, there were 2,593 Covid-19 cases compared to 1,321 influenza cases. Worryingly, there has also been one recorded Covid-19-related death during this timeframe. The health expert warns that individuals showing symptoms right now have a two-to-one likelihood of having Covid-19 over influenza, with an estimated 67% chance of contracting the virus if symptomatic. In response to this renewed threat, Dr Thira stressed the importance of targeted precautions for vulnerable groups such as young children, school students, the elderly, and those already hospitalised. He advises that individuals, particularly those working, should make health assessments a routine to ensure both personal safety and the safety of others. Dr Thira also recommends routine screening for inpatients and those scheduled for surgery, helping to safeguard patients and medical staff within healthcare facilities. He further called on educational institutions, childcare centres, elderly care facilities, and hospitals to adopt and enforce effective risk management strategies promptly. Quick action is necessary, he emphasised, to prevent a broader outbreak that could affect diverse age groups. The call for vigilance and proactive measures aligns with a global understanding that pandemic control requires collective effort and community-wide commitment. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Nation 2025-05-08

File photo for reference only QUẢNG NAM — Lifestart Foundation, an Australian-origin not-for-profit organisation based in Hội An, recently donated ten clean water filtration systems and water tanks to underprivileged schools in the mountainous areas of Quảng Nam province. This initiative aims to improve access to clean drinking water for students and staff in rural districts, including Phước Sơn, Quế Sơn, and Thăng Bình. These newly installed systems benefit over 2,200 students and staff, particularly in Phước Sơn, where many schools serve the Giẻ Triêng ethnic group. The lack of clean water has been a significant challenge, with some students relying on bottled water or bringing water from home due to limited financial resources. Each filtration system is valued at VNĐ66.4 million (US$2,740) and can purify up to 250 litres per hour, removing contaminants like bacteria, viruses, and heavy metals. Paired with 500-litre storage tanks, these systems ensure a continuous supply of safe water, with this round of installations costing over VNĐ472 million (more than $19,500). Since its clean water initiative began in 2021, Lifestart Foundation has provided 48 filtration systems across Quảng Nam, benefitting over 12,400 individuals, including students and educators, with donations exceeding VNĐ2.2 billion ($90,000). Karen Leonard OAM, founder of Lifestart Foundation, emphasized the importance of clean water for health and education, stating that the foundation is committed to enhancing the learning environment in disadvantaged communities. Trần Văn Mai, Chairman of the Quảng Nam Province Union of Friendship Organisations, praised the foundation's timely support, encouraging schools to maintain the systems for long-term benefit. Nguyễn Văn Lanh, principal of Quế Xuân 1 Primary School, expressed gratitude for the donation, noting it ends the practice of students bringing water from home and commits to the system's upkeep. Lifestart Foundation is dedicated to driving lasting improvement in central Việt Nam, focusing on vulnerable populations, particularly children. The organisation plans to donate ten more systems soon, aiming to support a total of 58 schools. Beyond clean water, Lifestart Foundation has invested VNĐ33 billion ($1.28 million) in the region, supporting underprivileged youth through education scholarships and housing improvement projects. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Vietnam News 2025-05-07

Photo: Vietnam News THANH HÓA — Police in Thanh Hóa Province have detained two foreign nationals amid an investigation into the alleged desecration of the royal tomb of Emperor Lê Túc Tông. The tomb, located in Kiên Thọ Commune, Ngọc Lặc District, showed signs of intrusion last Saturday evening. Officials from the Thanh Hóa Centre for Historical Research and Cultural Heritage Conservation discovered evidence of disturbance at the tomb, including a mobile phone with Chinese-language settings, identity documents of a Chinese citizen, and a metal probing tool indicative of artefact searching. The heritage centre promptly reported these findings to the Thanh Hóa Province Police Department. Upon suspecting that the two individuals involved were fleeing the country, local police alerted counterparts in Quảng Ninh Province. On Sunday at approximately 2.15pm, Quảng Ninh police apprehended Deng Zhui, 41, and Shen Jiangyang, 43, both from Guangxi Province, China. The suspects were subsequently transferred to Thanh Hóa Province police for further investigation. Preliminary investigations suggest that Deng and Shen violated laws pertaining to the desecration of tombs and human remains, specifically targeting the royal resting place of Emperor Lê Túc Tông. The emperor, also known as Lê Thuần, ruled during the Thái Trinh era, briefly ascending the throne in 1504 and being interred at Kính Lăng in what is now Kiên Thọ Commune after his death in 1505. Lê Túc Tông, celebrated for his intelligence, virtue, and devotion to promoting stability, succeeded his father, Emperor Lê Hiến Tông. His reign, although short, was noted for respecting the wise and maintaining peace, as documented in the Đại Việt sử ký toàn thư (The Complete Annals of Đại Việt). The investigation is ongoing as authorities work to uncover the full extent of the suspected desecration of this significant historical site. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Vietnam News 2025-05-07

File photo for reference only A Vietnam Airlines flight from Hanoi to Frankfurt made an emergency landing in Turkey on May 6 due to a passenger's serious medical condition. The incident occurred when Flight VN37, a Boeing 787 Dreamliner, had been airborne for approximately eight hours. A 61-year-old Vietnamese male passenger began experiencing severe breathing difficulties and oxygen deficiency. In response, the cabin crew issued an onboard medical call, prompting a doctor on the flight to administer first aid and oxygen. Recognizing the gravity of the situation, the flight crew decided to divert to the closest airport, landing at Erzurum Airport in eastern Turkey at 10:32 a.m. (Vietnam time). Emergency medical responders swiftly boarded the plane, transferring the passenger and a family member to a local hospital for urgent care. After completing necessary procedural checks and receiving clearance from Turkish authorities, the flight continued to Frankfurt at 3:00 p.m. the same day, arriving over six hours late. Despite the delay, passengers commended the crew for their prompt action and prioritization of the passenger's health. Vietnam Airlines highlighted this incident as a testament to its commitment to safety and the professionalism of its crew in handling emergencies. The airline acknowledged the financial and logistical challenges, such as additional fuel costs and schedule disruptions, but affirmed that health and safety are paramount. This instance is not isolated for Vietnam Airlines, as the carrier has rerouted flights for medical emergencies in the past. Earlier cases include a diversion to Da Nang in January and an emergency landing in Taiwan in December 2024 for similar medical reasons. Adapted by ASEAN Now from VN Express 2025-05-07