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Lufthansa Eyes Asia Expansion with Thai Focus; Diversifies Portfolio The Lufthansa Group is ramping up its presence in Asia with a strategic focus on Thailand, aiming to tap into both tourism and burgeoning business opportunities. Group CEO Carsten Spohr underscored the dual allure of Thailand, not only as a tourist haven but as an emerging business hub, with growing demands for cargo and maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services in the Asia-Pacific. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353767-lufthansa-eyes-asia-expansion-with-thai-focus-diversifies-portfolio/

The Lufthansa Group is ramping up its presence in Asia with a strategic focus on Thailand, aiming to tap into both tourism and burgeoning business opportunities. Group CEO Carsten Spohr underscored the dual allure of Thailand, not only as a tourist haven but as an emerging business hub, with growing demands for cargo and maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services in the Asia-Pacific. Lufthansa Technik, the group's MRO arm, currently collaborates with the Royal Thai Air Force and is actively seeking new partnerships within the region. The airline already establishes a significant footprint in Thailand, offering over 10,000 seats weekly through 27 flights from European hubs, including a new route from Rome via ITA Airways, a carrier in which Lufthansa holds a 41% interest. A substantial portion of travellers from Europe to Bangkok continue their journeys to other Asian destinations. In response to peak travel demand during Songkran in April, Lufthansa is extending Airbus A380 services from Munich to Bangkok and plans to maintain this route during the forthcoming winter schedule. Passengers flying to Thailand can also expect enhanced comfort with the introduction of Lufthansa's new Allegris cabin design. Asia currently constitutes 14% of Lufthansa's passenger revenue and an impressive 42% of its cargo earnings. However, the closure of Russian airspace remains a notable challenge, with hopes for its reopening to facilitate smoother operations in northern Asia. Lufthansa's global outlook is optimistic, buoyed by strong forward bookings and a surge in travel demand. Significant investments in aircraft upgrades and services are positioning it as a leading premium European airline. Enhancements include a new first-class offering and plans for a Swiss Air first class launch later this year. Notably, leisure travellers are showing increased interest in premium seats, despite corporate travel not fully rebounding to pre-pandemic levels. By 2025, Lufthansa anticipates double-digit growth in capacity, supported by ITA Airways and other acquisitions. The fleet will expand with over 100 new aircraft. The recent stake in Air Baltic is a strategic step to address aircraft shortages through wet leasing solutions. Lufthansa is targeting a turnover exceeding 40 billion euros by 2025, dedicating up to 4 billion euros for fleet modernisation, including the introduction of the Boeing 777X in 2026. Airfares are predicted to rise due to sustained high demand and limited capacity, with European taxes and regulatory costs further influencing prices. As part of its commitment to sustainability, Lufthansa applies an environmental surcharge on Europe-origin flights and integrates a 2% sustainable aviation fuel blend for EU departures, with 4% of passengers choosing a green fare to support eco-friendly travel, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-06

Israeli Labour Expansion: 21,000 Thai Workers Set to Bolster Sectors Photo courtesy of Naharnet In a pivotal move to address labour shortages, Israel is set to welcome 21,000 Thai workers to its agriculture and construction industries this year, as confirmed by Labour Minister Rabbi Yoav Ben Tzur. Concluding a successful visit to Thailand, Ben Tzur and Thai Labour Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn signed an agreement increasing the Thai workforce quota to 13,000 in agriculture and 8,500 in construction. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353766-israeli-labour-expansion-21000-thai-workers-set-to-bolster-sectors/

Photo courtesy of Naharnet In a pivotal move to address labour shortages, Israel is set to welcome 21,000 Thai workers to its agriculture and construction industries this year, as confirmed by Labour Minister Rabbi Yoav Ben Tzur. Concluding a successful visit to Thailand, Ben Tzur and Thai Labour Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn signed an agreement increasing the Thai workforce quota to 13,000 in agriculture and 8,500 in construction. This strategic expansion comes amidst Israel's ban on Palestinian labourers following the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack, which led to 150,000 Palestinian workers leaving the country. With infrastructure and businesses needing revitalisation, Israel is now eyeing contributions from Thai, Cambodian, and Mexican workers to fill the gap. Ben Tzur commended Thai workers for their diligence and skill, emphasising their essential role in the sectors, including future placements within the service industry in hotels, restaurants, and nursing care. He expressed ambitions to eventually host up to 200,000 Thai workers across various sectors, highlighting their high skill level as a key asset. While addressing concerns of safety amid regional conflicts, Ben Tzur reassured that Thai workers will be stationed in central Israel's safe zones, surrounded by heightened military security. Employers have proactively installed bunkers to ensure worker safety, underscoring the importance of their integration into Israeli society. Israel's commitment to safeguarding and providing legal protections for Thai workers reflects the country's appreciation and reliance on their contributions. This initiative marks a significant step in strengthening bilateral labour relations and boosting Israel's workforce across critical industries, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-06

Tragic End for Contractor in Thai Police Cell: Investigation Ongoing Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Heartbreak gripped Phra Samut Chedi Police Station today when 32-year-old Donrathee was found dead in his cell, appearing to have taken his own life. Facing charges for the alleged theft of a pickup truck, the contractor’s distress became evident in this tragic turn of events. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353765-tragic-end-for-contractor-in-thai-police-cell-investigation-ongoing/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Heartbreak gripped Phra Samut Chedi Police Station today when 32-year-old Donrathee was found dead in his cell, appearing to have taken his own life. Facing charges for the alleged theft of a pickup truck, the contractor’s distress became evident in this tragic turn of events. Donrathee's grieving mother, Saravee, stood by distraught as emergency services responded. The incident unfolded in the male detention area, where Donrathee was discovered hanging from a ventilation duct, dressed in a black t-shirt and blue three-quarter jeans. Detained following his arrest on 4 March at Mueang Chon Buri Police Station, Donrathee had been accused of borrowing and failing to return a Toyota Revo pickup from the In Klong Bang Pla Kot area under false pretences. The vehicle was tracked to Chon Buri via GPS, leading to his arrest. As preparations for a court appearance were underway, his premature death sparked an immediate investigation. The scene was examined by police, prosecutors, and medical staff, and his body was sent to the Police General Hospital for an autopsy to ascertain the exact cause. The somber task of arranging traditional funeral rites falls to Donrathee's family. Authorities continue to look into the circumstances surrounding this deeply saddening incident, which underscores the importance of mental health considerations in legal detention contexts, reported The Thaiger. If you or anyone you know is in emotional distress, please contact the Samaritans of Thailand 24-hour hotline: 02 713 6791 (English), 02 713 6793 (Thai), or the Thai Mental Health Hotline at 1323 (Thai). Please also contact your friends or relatives at this time if you have feelings of loneliness, stress, or depression. Seek help. -- 2025-03-06

Welsh Backpacker's Thailand Kayaking Tragedy: Inquest Findings Picture courtesy of The Daily Mail A heart-rending tragedy unfolded on a serene Thailand morning as British backpacker Shanghaman Gowribalan, 24, drowned after his kayak capsized in Cheow Lan Dam, Surat Thani. The Swansea-raised engineer set out on what was meant to be an adventurous excursion on 11 February 2024, only for it to turn into a desperate search-and-rescue effort. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353762-welsh-backpackers-thailand-kayaking-tragedy-inquest-findings/

Picture courtesy of The Daily Mail A heart-rending tragedy unfolded on a serene Thailand morning as British backpacker Shanghaman Gowribalan, 24, drowned after his kayak capsized in Cheow Lan Dam, Surat Thani. The Swansea-raised engineer set out on what was meant to be an adventurous excursion on 11 February 2024, only for it to turn into a desperate search-and-rescue effort. Gowribalan, who embarked on the journey with a friend, faced catastrophe when his kayak began taking on water. About 500 metres from their accommodation, the vessel overturned in the reservoir, part of a lush Khao Sok National Park. His mate's frantic calls for help initiated a search lasting three days, culminating in the discovery of Gowribalan's body on Valentine’s Day. The inquest at Swansea Guildhall revealed critical oversights; the tourists failed to register and acquire lifejackets for their kayaking venture. Thai authorities confirmed the lack of formal safety measures. A post-mortem highlighted significant findings of water and sewage in Gowribalan’s lungs, confirming accidental drowning. Coroner Aled Gruffydd led the inquest, expressing profound sympathies to the bereaved family and emphasizing the preventable nature of this tragic loss. The young man's zest for travel and his accomplished, bright life left a poignant void for those he left behind, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-06

Thai-Chinese High-Speed Rail Project Faces 350-Day Delay Pictures courtesy of Matichon The Thai-Chinese high-speed railway project has encountered another setback, with a 350-day extension approved by the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) board due to rental buildings hindering construction. This delay moves the completion deadline to March 10, 2026, for the Bangkok to Nakhon Ratchasima stretch of the railway, affecting contract sections 3 to 5 of phase 1. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353761-thai-chinese-high-speed-rail-project-faces-350-day-delay/

Pictures courtesy of Matichon The Thai-Chinese high-speed railway project has encountered another setback, with a 350-day extension approved by the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) board due to rental buildings hindering construction. This delay moves the completion deadline to March 10, 2026, for the Bangkok to Nakhon Ratchasima stretch of the railway, affecting contract sections 3 to 5 of phase 1. SRT chief Veerith Amrapal confirmed the extension after a board meeting, clarifying that no additional costs would be incurred by the Construction Supervision Consultant or Project Management Consultant. The delay primarily resulted from the SRT's failure to promptly clear the construction site of 60 obstructive rental buildings, which led to legal action against tenants. Following negotiations, the area was vacated by May 13 last year, allowing for site clearance and subsequent progress approval by the SRT board. Considered a flagship endeavour to boost regional connectivity, phase 1 of the project covers 12.38 kilometres, from Khok Kruat to Nakhon Ratchasima. Yet, as of January, only 12.42% of civil works were completed, with SPTK Joint Venture Co., Ltd. overseeing construction at a budget of 7.75 billion baht. Despite this being the latest in a series of delays, officials remain hopeful that site clearance will now streamline construction. However, persistent missed deadlines and bureaucratic challenges foster doubt regarding the high-speed rail's future completion and operational readiness, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-06

Eda Ezrin's Legal Battle: Cleared of Drug Possession, Found Guilty of Use in Thailand File photo for reference only A well-known Malaysian singer, Eda Ezrin, and five colleagues have been acquitted by the Narathiwat Provincial Court on charges of drug possession but found guilty of drug consumption. Eda Ezrin, whose real name is Wan Norshaheeda Azlin Wan Ismail, rose to fame for her modern take on dikir barat music. The court's decision came after CCTV evidence failed to link them to the possession of 6,059 speed pills found in the hotel room where they were arrested last November. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353760-eda-ezrins-legal-battle-cleared-of-possession-found-guilty-of-use/

File photo for reference only A well-known Malaysian singer, Eda Ezrin, and five colleagues have been acquitted by the Narathiwat Provincial Court on charges of drug possession but found guilty of drug consumption. Eda Ezrin, whose real name is Wan Norshaheeda Azlin Wan Ismail, rose to fame for her modern take on dikir barat music. The court's decision came after CCTV evidence failed to link them to the possession of 6,059 speed pills found in the hotel room where they were arrested last November. The court determined that three other individuals were responsible for bringing the drugs into the room. Despite the conviction for consumption, Eda Ezrin and her peers were spared further punishment beyond time already served due to good behaviour during their previous four-month detention. This suspension of both the six-month jail sentence and fines of 4,000 baht followed the court's leniency, acknowledging their compliance during detention. Eda Ezrin's arrest came as a shock to her fan base in northern Malaysia and southern Thailand. Following her release, she expressed gratitude for her supporters, stating her desire to continue her music career. The widely publicised trial adds a curious chapter to her public life, yet fans anticipate her return to the music scene, hoping she'll emerge stronger from the ordeal, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-03-06

Chinese Restaurant Worker Stabs Cambodian in a Cigarette Smoke Dispute - video Screenshots from Amarin TV YouTube In Pattaya, early this morning, a heated argument ended violently when a Chinese restaurant worker allegedly stabbed a Cambodian man. The incident happened at about 2:19 a.m. near Soi Chaloem Phrakiat 4/1 in the Bang Lamung district, Chon Buri province. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353669-chinese-restaurant-worker-stabs-cambodian-in-a-cigarette-smoke-dispute-video/

Screenshots from Amarin TV YouTube In Pattaya, early this morning, a heated argument ended violently when a Chinese restaurant worker allegedly stabbed a Cambodian man. The incident happened at about 2:19 a.m. near Soi Chaloem Phrakiat 4/1 in the Bang Lamung district, Chon Buri province. Emergency response teams found 24-year-old Cambodian Hin bleeding heavily from a knife wound on his left shoulder. He was in critical condition and was rushed to Pattaya Hospital for urgent care. Witnesses say the altercation began when the Chinese employee, known for drinking excessively, clashed with Hin over blown cigarette smoke. Despite being warned to stop, Hin kept blowing smoke, prompting the violent attack. Police quickly acted and arrested the suspect at the scene. During his arrest, he stunned onlookers by smirking, making a peace sign to reporters, and admitting, "I did it because he blew smoke in my face." The suspect is now in custody at Pattaya City Police Station, facing serious assault charges. This shocking incident highlights concerns about alcohol-related violence in Pattaya, where minor disagreements can rapidly turn dangerous. While police investigate, Hin remains in the hospital receiving treatment, and legal proceedings against the suspect are underway, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-05

Foreign Fare Dispute: Russian Couple Allegedly Dodges Taxi Bill Photo via Facebook/ Phuket Times ภูเก็ตไทม์ In a recent incident sparking debate in Thailand, a Thai taxi driver vigorously pursued a Russian couple who allegedly attempted to flee without settling their cab fare in Phuket. Capturing the tense exchange, The Phuket Times showcased images and footage of the confrontation unfolding on March 5th, encapsulating the mounting frustrations over such encounters in the tourist hotspot. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353668-foreign-fare-dispute-russian-couple-allegedly-dodges-taxi-bill/

Photo via Facebook/ Phuket Times ภูเก็ตไทม์ In a recent incident sparking debate in Thailand, a Thai taxi driver vigorously pursued a Russian couple who allegedly attempted to flee without settling their cab fare in Phuket. Capturing the tense exchange, The Phuket Times showcased images and footage of the confrontation unfolding on March 5th, encapsulating the mounting frustrations over such encounters in the tourist hotspot. Eyewitness video highlights the climactic point where the driver confronts the couple after they exited his vehicle. The driver can be heard vociferously demanding his fare, "Hey! No, no, no, pay me! One hundred!" Despite his repeated demands, the Russian man remained reticent, while the female seemed indifferent, dismissing the driver with a wave. Uploaded on social media, the video swiftly garnered reactions from local citizens, with many sharing anecdotes of similar run-ins with foreign tourists, specifically Russians. In one account, a Thai local detailed how some foreigners claim empty wallets and feign ATM failures to avoid payments. Adding fuel to the fire, speculation amongst netizens suggests the driver might have sought an additional, unauthorised fare, which could explain the couple's reluctance to pay. However, the situation remains nebulous as neither the driver nor media outlets have expanded further on the details. This incident is the latest in a spate of similar occurrences making waves through Thai news circles, with reports of 'dine and dash' incidents adding to concerns over certain tourist behaviours in Phuket. As patience wears thin, the need for clearer regulations and possible interventions grows increasingly apparent, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-05

Record-Breaking Kiss Ends in Separation: Thai Couple Splits Photo courtesy of NBC News A Thai couple once known for setting the Guinness World Record for the longest kiss has now ended their decade-long union. Ekkachai and Laksana Tiranarat made headlines in 2013 by kissing for an astonishing 58 hours and 35 minutes at an event in Pattaya. Their feat surpassed their previous record of 46 hours and 24 minutes set in 2011, catapulting them to global fame. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353667-record-breaking-kiss-ends-in-separation-thai-couple-splits/

Photo courtesy of NBC News A Thai couple once known for setting the Guinness World Record for the longest kiss has now ended their decade-long union. Ekkachai and Laksana Tiranarat made headlines in 2013 by kissing for an astonishing 58 hours and 35 minutes at an event in Pattaya. Their feat surpassed their previous record of 46 hours and 24 minutes set in 2011, catapulting them to global fame. Despite the recent end of their relationship, Ekkachai, now 56, shared his pride and nostalgia for their shared achievement in a BBC interview. “It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience,” he reflected, noting their enduring respect for one another despite the split. The gruelling Guinness challenge had strict rules, keeping them locked in an embrace even during restroom breaks. Initially hesitant to participate again in 2013, after a failed attempt the prior year due to illness, the pair were drawn back by the thought of a 100,000-baht prize and two diamond rings. They succeeded before the category was deemed too perilous and discontinued later that year. Though their romance has ended, their challenging record secures their unique place in history, highlighting the blend of love and determination, much like their enduring legacy in the now-retired competition, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-05

Farmers' Class Action vs CPF Approved Amid Environmental Dispute Photo courtesy of Amarin TV A group of farmers has cleared a critical hurdle in their legal campaign against agribusiness titan Charoen Pokphand Foods (CPF), as the South Bangkok Civil Court approved their class action lawsuit yesterday, March 4. This landmark case, addressing claims of environmental harm and adverse effects on livelihoods due to CPF's operations, now moves forward after being consolidated into a single legal process. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353666-farmers-class-action-vs-cpf-approved-amid-environmental-dispute/

Photo courtesy of Amarin TV A group of farmers has cleared a critical hurdle in their legal campaign against agribusiness titan Charoen Pokphand Foods (CPF), as the South Bangkok Civil Court approved their class action lawsuit yesterday, March 4. This landmark case, addressing claims of environmental harm and adverse effects on livelihoods due to CPF's operations, now moves forward after being consolidated into a single legal process. This court approval does not equate to a ruling against CPF's practices; instead, it allows a collective legal suit, reflecting the shared experiences of numerous affected locals. The decision aims to streamline the judicial process and reduce the plaintiffs' burden, many of whom face significant resource constraints. The lawsuit argues CPF's industrial activities have disrupted local ecosystems, impacting farmers' ways of life. In response, CPF firmly denies these allegations, asserting compliance with rigorous environmental norms. The company plans to appeal, pledging to counter these claims with scientific evidence. With the court allowing the trial to proceed, CPF's liability remains undetermined. The upcoming phase will focus on presenting evidence and arguments by both parties, leading to a final verdict. For the farmers, this ruling is a significant stride in their struggle against one of Thailand’s prominent entities, highlighting the strain between large corporate operations and local interests. The outcome could establish a critical precedent for similar environmental challenges in Thailand's agricultural landscape, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-05

Discover Thailand: AirAsia's Budget Deals on Lesser-Known Routes Photo courtesy of AirAsia Newsroom AirAsia has teamed up with the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) to make domestic travel in Thailand more affordable. The budget airline is offering one-way fares starting from just 880 baht, allowing travellers to explore 16 destinations across four regions of the country. This promotion, available for booking until 9th March, invites tourists to travel between 10th March and 30th September. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353665-discover-thailand-airasias-budget-deals-on-lesser-known-routes/

Photo courtesy of AirAsia Newsroom AirAsia has teamed up with the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) to make domestic travel in Thailand more affordable. The budget airline is offering one-way fares starting from just 880 baht, allowing travellers to explore 16 destinations across four regions of the country. This promotion, available for booking until 9th March, invites tourists to travel between 10th March and 30th September. The initiative aims to connect tourists with lesser-known destinations, encouraging them to visit places beyond Thailand's typical hotspots. Northern destinations include Chiang Rai and Nan, while the Isaan region covers areas like Loei and Ubon Ratchathani. In the south, travellers can reach Nakhon Si Thammarat and Trang, among others. TAT Governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool highlighted the plan's focus on boosting local economies by spreading tourist traffic across the country. AirAsia CEO Santisuk Klongchaiya reiterated the airline's dedication to supporting domestic travel, emphasising that these smaller cities have unique attractions for modern travellers. The promotion is poised to revitalise lesser-known provinces, with AirAsia's affordable fares and enhanced connectivity potentially setting new travel trends within Thailand. Interested travellers are encouraged to book early to take advantage of this limited offer, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-05

Chinese Man Arrested in Thailand with Fake Passport Amid Scam Crackdown Photo via Facebook/ สวท.สระแก้ว A Chinese national was detained today at the Ban Khlong Luek Border Checkpoint in Thailand's Sa Kaeo province, accused of entering the country with a forged passport. The arrest is part of Thailand's ongoing efforts to curb call centre scams. Authorities have heightened border inspections to prevent such operations. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353664-chinese-man-arrested-in-thailand-with-fake-passport-amid-scam-crackdown/

Photo via Facebook/ สวท.สระแก้ว A Chinese national was detained today at the Ban Khlong Luek Border Checkpoint in Thailand's Sa Kaeo province, accused of entering the country with a forged passport. The arrest is part of Thailand's ongoing efforts to curb call centre scams. Authorities have heightened border inspections to prevent such operations. The individual, 39-year-old Wang Murong, travelled from China via Cambodia; however, discrepancies between his Chinese origin and the Taiwanese-issued passport raised suspicions. This ultimately led to further scrutiny and his arrest as he admitted to acquiring the fake passport in Cambodia. Murong, however, kept mum about the purchase details. Speculation arises regarding Murong's potential link to a scam gang in Cambodia that is likely scrambling to dodge local crackdowns. Murong now faces serious legal consequences under Thai law, potentially receiving one to ten years in prison and up to a 200,000 baht fine for his counterfeit identification. In recent months, Thailand has intensified its fight against fraud by targeting infrastructure used by scam groups. Energy supplies, essential services, and Internet access have been cut, and collaborations with neighbouring countries have been amplified. Deputy Prime Minister Prasert Jantararuangtong proudly reported a reduction in financial crime rates due to these stringent measures. Scam losses have halved from a previous 100 million baht daily. With 92,321 suspicious bank accounts suspended this year and the arrest of 587 account holders, the efforts have indeed shown progress. Prasert issued a firm warning to individuals involved with mule accounts, underscoring the legal repercussions and urging them to come forward for assistance, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-05

Man Arrested in Bangkok for Assaulting Officers with a Shovel Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A dramatic arrest unfolded in Bangkok on 3rd March when a 38-year-old man, identified as Kamla, was taken into custody after allegedly assaulting two police officers with a shovel. The incident began with reports of Kamla's public indecency at the end of Soi Sukhumvit 50. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353662-man-arrested-in-bangkok-for-assaulting-officers-with-a-shovel/