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Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post The Kok River, a vital lifeline for communities in northern Thailand, has become a source of concern due to high levels of arsenic contamination. As residents in Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai rely heavily on the river for agriculture, fisheries, and tourism, the discovery of hazardous heavy metals has incited fear and uncertainty. In Ban Huai Kum, Chiang Rai, 63-year-old farmer Supin Kamjai laments her failing crops, having ceased using river water due to contamination concerns. Nearby, children in the community have developed red, itchy rashes, prompting questions about the river's safety. Yet, no formal health assessments have been conducted, according to community rights advocate Boonchai Phanasawangwong. The issue came to light late last year when the river's clear waters turned murky. Recent tests revealed significant arsenic contamination, with levels in Mae Ai district, Chiang Mai, exceeding safe thresholds. The Department of Health has confirmed health risks associated with arsenic and lead exposure, including skin rashes, diarrhoea, and potentially severe long-term effects. The contamination is believed to stem from mining activities in Myanmar’s Shan State, near the river's headwaters. Environmentalists point to 23 gold mining sites, lacking environmental assessments, as the source of the sediment carrying arsenic and lead into the river system. Satellite imagery highlights mining operations in the region, prompting calls for action. Sen Cheewapap Cheewatham has urged the Thai government to swiftly identify and address the chemical sources, warning against a repeat of past environmental disasters, such as the Klity Creek contamination in Kanchanaburi. Efforts by Mae Fah Luang University have shown alarming arsenic levels in connected rivers, raising concerns about contamination during floods. The impact extends beyond health issues. The Karen Ruammit Elephant Camp, previously affected by floods, now suffers an 80% drop in visitors due to arsenic fears. Meanwhile, farmers like Thanet Maneekorn express distrust in even groundwater safety. Residents from 13 Chiang Rai communities petitioned the governor on April 30th for urgent testing, communication, and screenings. Community representative Thaweesak Maneewan and advocate Boonsri Panasawangwong emphasize the disruption in daily life caused by contamination and the need for government action. In response, the Thai government convened an emergency meeting chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Prasert Jantararuangtong. The focus was on inter-agency collaboration and addressing upstream mining practices. Deputy Minister of the Interior, Theerarat Samrejvanich, stressed cooperation with Myanmar to halt unsafe mining operations. As the Kok River continues its journey, the fight to safeguard its integrity and provide clean water for future generations is underway. The communities are united in their call for a swift resolution to restore the river's health and vitality. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-06

Another Construction Mishap on Rama II Road Causes Vehicle Damage File photo for reference only In yet another construction-related incident on Rama II road, a cable from an overhead construction site fell, damaging a trailer truck and a pickup filled with seafood shortly after midnight last night. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, as confirmed by Naewna newspaper on May 6. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359936-another-construction-mishap-on-rama-ii-road-causes-vehicle-damage/

File photo for reference only In yet another construction-related incident on Rama II road, a cable from an overhead construction site fell, damaging a trailer truck and a pickup filled with seafood shortly after midnight last night. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, as confirmed by Naewna newspaper on May 6. The accident took place near central Mahachai in Samut Sakhon province at 1.05 a.m. The driver of the seafood-laden pickup, which departed from Thai Talay market bound for Bangkok, reported following a trailer truck when a cable unexpectedly snapped and descended from the construction area. It first struck the trailer truck, then struck the front of his vehicle with significant force, dislodging the grille and licence plate and causing severe damage to the vehicle's front end. Although the driver was unharmed, the incident left him shaken and questioning the safety protocols of the construction site. He has called on relevant authorities to address this issue and investigate the frequent accidents along this route. Construction workers mentioned that while they were operating a rotating machine to position the cable, which had been hooked, the concrete platform led to the cable's unexpected descent just as the vehicles were passing through. This situation highlights the negligence which led to property damage, with the construction contractor agreeing to cover all repair costs. This incident follows another tragic event on April 29, where an engineer suffered a ruptured liver and later died after chunks of concrete fell on his pickup truck while passing under a flyover on the same road. This series of accidents calls for urgent action to improve safety standards and prevent future occurrences on Rama II road. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai Newsroom 2025-05-06

Tragic Accident: Woman Dies After Falling into Septic Tank in Phitsanulok Picture courtesy of Phitsanulok Hotnews In a heartbreaking incident in Phitsanulok province, a 65-year-old woman named Sa-ing tragically died after falling into a septic tank at her home. The discovery was made by her granddaughter, prompting an investigation by local authorities. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359935-tragic-accident-woman-dies-after-falling-into-septic-tank-in-phitsanulok/

Picture courtesy of Phitsanulok Hotnews In a heartbreaking incident in Phitsanulok province, a 65-year-old woman named Sa-ing tragically died after falling into a septic tank at her home. The discovery was made by her granddaughter, prompting an investigation by local authorities. Police Colonel Chanasak Phueanghuengkaew from Wang Thong Police Station received the report at 6.25 pm on May 5, concerning a deceased woman found in a septic tank at a residence in the Mueang Phitsanulok district. Emergency services from the Burapha rescue unit were promptly dispatched. The incident occurred at a single-storey concrete home with an adjacent old septic tank. Sa-ing was found head-first within the 3-metre deep septic tank, tragically submerged in waste. Rescue teams carefully retrieved and cleaned the body, estimating that she had been in the tank for at least three hours before being discovered. Early investigations suggest that Sa-ing was alone at home when the accident happened. She had gone outside to collect dried mango sheets from beside the house just as the weather turned cloudy. Unfortunately, the cover of the septic tank, weakened over time, gave way beneath her, causing her to fall and become trapped in the tank, leading to her drowning. Later that evening, her granddaughter returned home and, upon finding no response to her calls, searched the premises, discovering the tragic scene. Grief-stricken relatives immediately contacted the police. Authorities, expressing condolences to the family, have noted the essential task of ensuring older structures like septic tanks are regularly inspected for safety. A police investigation is underway to conclusively determine the event's circumstances, adhering to legal protocols. Sa-ing’s body will soon be returned to her family for the observance of religious rites, offering them an opportunity to mourn their loss. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-06

Car Crashes into Supermarket in Suphan Buri, Injuring Two Picture courtesy of Amarin TV An unexpected incident unfolded yesterday in Suphan Buri province when a car unexpectedly accelerated into a well-known supermarket at Pho Phra Ya market, causing significant damage and injuring two people. Police and emergency services promptly arrived at the scene to manage the situation. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359934-car-crashes-into-supermarket-in-suphan-buri-injuring-two/

Picture courtesy of Amarin TV An unexpected incident unfolded yesterday in Suphan Buri province when a car unexpectedly accelerated into a well-known supermarket at Pho Phra Ya market, causing significant damage and injuring two people. Police and emergency services promptly arrived at the scene to manage the situation. On arrival, they found about ten supermarket employees visibly shaken by the event. The store’s left-front window was shattered by a white Mazda bearing the registration number กข 1487, which had crashed inside. The car's front end was severely damaged, and various store items were destroyed in the impact, including cosmetic shelves, consumer goods, cash registers, and other merchandise. Kanokwan, a staff member, described how she was preparing coffee when a loud crash rang out, initially mistaking it for an earthquake. Upon turning, she witnessed the vehicle lodged inside the supermarket. Staff acted swiftly to assist customers and the driver. A 60-year-old customer suffered injuries from a fallen shelf, while another employee sustained minor injuries. The driver, a woman who was accompanied by three friends, later explained to the police that she lost control when the accelerator got stuck as she was attempting to park and buy coffee, leading to the crash. Mueang Suphan Buri police are conducting a comprehensive investigation to determine the circumstances of the accident and to pursue appropriate legal action. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-06

Rise in Violence in Thailand's Deep South Triggers Urgent Peace Calls Pictures courtesy of The Nation In response to a recent wave of violence in Thailand’s Deep South, the opposition People’s Party has issued an urgent plea for the government to restart peace talks with insurgent groups and for militants to cease targeting innocent civilians. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359924-rise-in-violence-in-thailands-deep-south-triggers-urgent-peace-calls/

Pictures courtesy of The Nation In response to a recent wave of violence in Thailand’s Deep South, the opposition People’s Party has issued an urgent plea for the government to restart peace talks with insurgent groups and for militants to cease targeting innocent civilians. The party's open letter, shared on its official Facebook page, urges the Thai government to resume dialogue with insurgents to curb the escalating violence in Yala, Pattani, Narathiwat, and four districts in Songkhla. The surge in deadly attacks, particularly against civilians, has alarmed many, with incidents including attacks on monks, women, children, the elderly, and the disabled. Highlighted incidents include: April 18: A former Islamic teacher was fatally shot on his return from a mosque. April 22: A blind mother and her daughter were killed. May 2: An elderly person was killed and a child injured. May 4: A civilian man was shot dead in Pattani’s Yaring district. The People’s Party warns that the violence is inciting fear and distrust among both Buddhist and Muslim communities, jeopardising the peace process and destabilising the region. The letter emphasises that targeting civilians will only perpetuate hatred, obstruct understanding, and provoke retaliation, further complicating reconciliation efforts. Condemning the attacks as contrary to Islamic teachings, Thai law, and international human rights standards, the party calls for a resumption of peace talks, citing a lack of a coherent government policy for the South. These talks, crucial for allaying tensions, have been stalled for nearly a year. The People’s Party advocates for local, joint platforms where Thai Buddhists and Malay Muslims can collaborate to address regional issues through peaceful political dialogue, rather than violence. It urges Thai society to encourage solutions through conversation, warning that revenge only serves those intent on sowing division. The party stresses the need for constructive discourse as the path to sustainable peace, urging all parties to eschew violence and engage in meaningful dialogue to achieve lasting resolution and stability in Thailand's Deep South. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-06

Teenager Caught Smuggling Meth Worth 19 Million Baht in Thai-Lao Operation Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A 17-year-old was apprehended for transporting a massive haul of methamphetamine, valued at 19 million baht, in collaboration with a Lao drug syndicate. The arrest took place yesterday, May 5, as the teenager prepared to receive the narcotics, which had been transported across the Mekong River by boat into Thailand. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359922-teenager-caught-smuggling-meth-worth-19-million-baht-in-thai-lao-operation/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A 17-year-old was apprehended for transporting a massive haul of methamphetamine, valued at 19 million baht, in collaboration with a Lao drug syndicate. The arrest took place yesterday, May 5, as the teenager prepared to receive the narcotics, which had been transported across the Mekong River by boat into Thailand. Rear Admiral Narong Emdee, commander of the Mekong Riverine Unit, acted swiftly on a tip-off about the planned drug smuggling operation near Ban Bung Suai, in the Mueang subdistrict of Khong Chiam district, Ubon Ratchathani province. In coordination with the Khong Chiam Station intelligence unit, local security forces, and administration, patrols were set up along the riverbank. During their patrol, officials spotted a white pickup truck stationed at the river's edge. A long-tail boat, travelling from Laos, approached and docked at the intended transfer point. Three individuals from the truck began unloading fertiliser sacks from the boat, which promptly returned to Laos. As authorities moved in, the suspects abandoned their cargo and attempted to flee. However, security forces successfully apprehended all three. One of the detainees was identified as Watchara, alongside two other 17-year-olds, all hailing from Chuen Chom district in Maha Sarakham province. Examination of the green fertiliser sacks uncovered 640,000 pills of orange methamphetamine marked with the WY stamp, a type 1 narcotic. The vast quantity of drugs was destined for distribution by inner-region dealers in Thailand's upper northeast. The suspects confessed to being part of the transport operation organised by a Lao drug syndicate, with a promised payment of 50,000 baht in exchange for delivering the drugs further inland. This apprehension marks a significant operation in the ongoing battle against drug trafficking across the Thai-Lao border, underlining the need for vigilance and collaboration among regional law enforcement. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-06

Minor Earthquake Shakes Nong Bua Lamphu, Residents Reassured Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Early this morning, a 3.0 magnitude earthquake was recorded in the Boon Than subdistrict of Suwannakhuha district, Nong Bua Lamphu province. Originating at a depth of 4 kilometres, the tremor was felt in the nearby Boon Than and Saeng Arun villages, raising concerns among locals. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359921-minor-earthquake-shakes-nong-bua-lamphu-residents-reassured/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Early this morning, a 3.0 magnitude earthquake was recorded in the Boon Than subdistrict of Suwannakhuha district, Nong Bua Lamphu province. Originating at a depth of 4 kilometres, the tremor was felt in the nearby Boon Than and Saeng Arun villages, raising concerns among locals. Attributed to the Loei Suture, a known geological fault line in the region, this seismic event is part of a historical pattern. Previous earthquakes in this area have measured 3.4 in 2018, 3.8 in 2020, and 2.6 in 2024. Thanks to the meteorological station in Loei province, such occurrences are precisely monitored but are not considered disasters by experts. Geologists note that the northeastern region of Thailand, particularly Loei and Bueng Kan provinces, is notable for active fault lines like the Loei Suture and Thakhek Fault. In contrast, other faults present in the region, such as those in Korat, Phu Khieo, and Satuek, are deemed inactive and pose no significant risk. The prime mover of seismic activities in the broader area is the geological forces from the Sumatra-Andaman subduction zone, but their effects on northeastern Thailand remain minimal. As a result, experts are addressing misinformation suggesting that numerous dangerous fault lines lurk in the northeast, clarifying that aside from Loei and Bueng Kan, the region's faults are dormant. This inactivity parallels other parts of Thailand, where many dormant faults exist in the north, west, and south sectors. Reactivating these would be as improbable as reviving ancient volcanoes like Phanom Rung and Khao Kradong. Authorities are using these explanations to reassure the public, urging against undue panic regarding potential seismic disasters in the northeast. The key focus is leveraging these geological features to enhance scientific understanding rather than instigating alarm, ensuring residents maintain confidence in their safety amidst these natural occurrences. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-06

BLACKPINK's Lisa Stuns in Louis Vuitton at 2025 Met Gala Debut Pictures courtesy of Siamrath All eyes were on Lisa from BLACKPINK as she made her highly anticipated debut at the 2025 Met Gala in a dazzling Louis Vuitton ensemble. The global K-pop icon arrived in a show-stopping outfit that captured the attention of fans and fashion critics alike. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359920-blackpinks-lisa-stuns-in-louis-vuitton-at-2025-met-gala-debut/

Pictures courtesy of Siamrath All eyes were on Lisa from BLACKPINK as she made her highly anticipated debut at the 2025 Met Gala in a dazzling Louis Vuitton ensemble. The global K-pop icon arrived in a show-stopping outfit that captured the attention of fans and fashion critics alike. Recently stepping into acting with a role in The White Lotus season three and delivering a memorable solo set at Coachella, Lisa has been dominating headlines. Her presence at the Met Gala reinforced her status as not just a music sensation but a fashion powerhouse. Amid rampant online speculation about her attendance, Lisa's Met Gala appearance thrilled her 106 million Instagram followers, especially given her role as a high-profile ambassador for Louis Vuitton. Exceeding all expectations, she wowed in a Louis Vuitton signature print bodysuit and matching jacket, enhanced by a pearl-draped chain belt. The outfit's encrusted buttons and embellishments sparked under the red carpet lights, but the intricate details truly stole the show. Lisa's look also featured embroidered portraits by renowned artist Henry Taylor, known for his work on Pharrell Williams’ Vogue cover painting. This collaboration marks Taylor's second venture with Louis Vuitton, underscoring this year's Met Gala theme, Tailored for You, with a magnificent blend of fashion and art. Effortlessly blending fashion, art, and music, Lisa's debut at the Met Gala was a striking moment, highlighting her versatile style and cementing her place in the fashion sphere. Her appearance was not just a nod to the theme but a vivid display of individuality, solidifying her influence beyond the music industry. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-06

Thailand's Phu Kradueng Cable Car Project Secures Budget Approval Photo courtesy of The Nation A long-discussed initiative to enhance accessibility to Phu Kradueng National Park in northeast Thailand has gained momentum with a 25.7 million baht budget sanctioned for its design. With this financial backing, the plan for a 3-kilometre cable car route has entered its initial phase, setting the stage for potentially groundbreaking infrastructural developments. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359919-thailands-phu-kradueng-cable-car-project-secures-budget-approval/

Photo courtesy of The Nation A long-discussed initiative to enhance accessibility to Phu Kradueng National Park in northeast Thailand has gained momentum with a 25.7 million baht budget sanctioned for its design. With this financial backing, the plan for a 3-kilometre cable car route has entered its initial phase, setting the stage for potentially groundbreaking infrastructural developments. Atthapol Charoenchansa, Director General of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, spearheads this ambitious project, which explores launching from the Pha Mak Dook trail. Estimated costs for this first phase could climb to 1 billion baht. Following this, a second phase focusing on infrastructure enhancement and completing a full environmental impact assessment (EIA) is expected to ensure the park’s ecological integrity remains intact. Community support for the cable car is notably strong, with local residents largely backing the concept as a means to draw more tourists and stimulate local commerce. That said, Atthapol noted that to protect the park's wildlife, especially in areas inhabited by wild elephants, certain zones may remain off-limits to tourists. Although the cable car has received support based on its potential to make the park more accessible to diverse visitors, including the elderly and those with disabilities, it has also faced criticism. Detractors argue that the development risks environmental harm, potentially affecting the park's unspoiled forest and diverse wildlife. The environmental impact study will play a pivotal role in determining the project's trajectory and scope, addressing both environmental and community concerns. The Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration (DASTA) endorsed a feasibility study to evaluate the project's potential impact, including cable car design and public consultation, before presenting findings to the National Environment Board. In January, DASTA, alongside park and provincial officials, conducted an on-site inspection within the national park to assess the proposed project area. As the project progresses, the next stages will be closely watched, balancing the drive for increased tourism access with the imperative to protect Thailand's natural heritage. By leveraging sustainable tourism practices, the project aims to accomplish its goals without compromising the ecological charm that Phu Kradueng is celebrated for. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-06

Pattaya Drug Bust Unfolds into Chaos as Suspect Claims Police Ties Picture courtesy of Pattaya News A significant methamphetamine crackdown in Pattaya descended into chaos this week when a suspect unleashed panic on the streets, claiming to be the son of a police officer. This dramatic sequence of events played out following a tip-off from fed-up locals about rampant drug activity in Jomtien Soi 3. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359918-pattaya-drug-bust-unfolds-into-chaos-as-suspect-claims-police-ties/

Picture courtesy of Pattaya News A significant methamphetamine crackdown in Pattaya descended into chaos this week when a suspect unleashed panic on the streets, claiming to be the son of a police officer. This dramatic sequence of events played out following a tip-off from fed-up locals about rampant drug activity in Jomtien Soi 3. On May 5, led by Police Colonel Anek Sarathongyoo, Pattaya City police executed a sting operation targeting a known drug hotspot. Undercover officers, directed by Police Lieutenant Anek Prasitboon, successfully purchased 0.20 grammes of crystal meth, or "ice," from 28-year-old suspect Sutee Petchamlerd. Following the transaction, Sutee was swiftly apprehended. A subsequent search uncovered an additional 0.59 grammes of ice and a meth pill in his possession. The operation's scope widened as police conducted random drug tests on bystanders, resulting in four more individuals testing positive for meth use: Narachan Thongpha (42), Atthaphon Sriphako (37), Thanawat Makaew (27), and Charin Saengao (39). In addition, two more were arrested for possession—Sayan Namkam (45), with 0.65 grammes of ice, and Anantawut Phrombut (32), with 0.49 grammes of ice. All seven were taken to Pattaya City Police Station for further investigation and legal proceedings. Days earlier, on May 2, the same neighbourhood faced turmoil when a man purportedly linked to local drug activities went on a rampage, attacking civilians and causing traffic chaos by claiming his father was a police officer. The disturbance led to panic among residents, but the timely arrival of law enforcement officials traced the man's vehicle back to the area as part of the operation, unveiling deeper drug trafficking connections. During the dramatic arrests that followed, a dealer resisted, injuring a police officer before being subdued. Police Lieutenant Anek expressed that these arrests are a powerful deterrent, urging the public to continue reporting any drug-related activities through the police hotline or by dialling 191. These coordinated efforts aim to restore safety and order in Pattaya, as authorities crack down on pervasive drug operations with the community's aid. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-06

Foreign Tourist's Outburst in Pattaya Sparks Theft Scare, Highlights Mental Health Picture courtesy of Pattaya police In South Pattaya, a department store was plunged into disarray yesterday after a foreign tourist's erratic behaviour led to fears of shoplifting. Pattaya City Police were dispatched following reports of a suspected theft, only to find the individual in the throes of a mental health crisis rather than committing any crime. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359917-foreign-tourists-outburst-in-pattaya-sparks-theft-scare-highlights-mental-health/

Picture courtesy of Pattaya police In South Pattaya, a department store was plunged into disarray yesterday after a foreign tourist's erratic behaviour led to fears of shoplifting. Pattaya City Police were dispatched following reports of a suspected theft, only to find the individual in the throes of a mental health crisis rather than committing any crime. Eyewitnesses recounted the scene: the tourist was loudly speaking and wandering aimlessly, sparking suspicions among staff and shoppers. However, after police arrived and assessed the situation, it became clear the man required medical assistance, not police custody. He was subsequently transported to Pattaya Hospital for immediate psychiatric care by rescue teams. Police Colonel Anek Sarathongyoo, Superintendent of Pattaya City Police, underscored the importance of proper assessment in such incidents to prevent misunderstandings, assuring the public of their ongoing commitment to safety. Recent events in Pattaya have highlighted challenges with foreign visitors. Last week, a confrontation outside a convenience store saw two British men paying 15,000 baht in damages after a road altercation with a local motorcycle taxi rider. The dispute escalated when rubbish was thrown from a vehicle, leading to a scuffle that went viral online. In another instance of misconduct, a Chinese couple was apprehended after being caught having sex on a public footpath near Pattaya's Walking Street. The couple, who admitted to recording the act for pornographic purposes, now face charges of public indecency and unlawful filming. These incidents collectively emphasise the ongoing issues Pattaya faces with certain foreign visitors, straining local patience and resources. For any emergencies, citizens and tourists can contact Pattaya City Police at 082-7999-111 or dial 191, available around the clock. The identity and nationality of the foreign man involved in the department store incident remain undisclosed. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-06

Luxury Pattaya Cruise Strives to Survive Amidst Plummeting Tourism Photo courtesy of Booking.com Ocean Sky Pattaya, a luxury dinner cruise once bustling with Chinese tourists, is now battling for survival as a sharp decline in visitors prompts widespread layoffs and an urgent business overhaul. The fallout has seen the cruise cut its workforce by 30% and contemplate reducing its fleet to a single vessel to manage costs amid dwindling Chinese arrivals. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359916-luxury-pattaya-cruise-strives-to-survive-amidst-plummeting-tourism/

Photo courtesy of Booking.com Ocean Sky Pattaya, a luxury dinner cruise once bustling with Chinese tourists, is now battling for survival as a sharp decline in visitors prompts widespread layoffs and an urgent business overhaul. The fallout has seen the cruise cut its workforce by 30% and contemplate reducing its fleet to a single vessel to manage costs amid dwindling Chinese arrivals. Buncha Kullawanich, the cruise's executive, laid bare the financial turmoil, noting a significant downturn in tourist numbers starting early 2025. The situation worsened after two major incidents: the kidnapping of a Chinese actor using Thailand as a transit point to Myanmar and a catastrophic earthquake leading to a government building collapse. These events have marred Thailand's safety perception among tourists, exacerbating the decline in visitors. April, typically the peak of the tourism season, proved particularly disappointing—a stark indication of the crisis at hand. The repercussions extend beyond the decks of Ocean Sky, affecting Pattaya's entire tourism sector, which has long depended heavily on Chinese tourist groups. Many businesses echo similar struggles as they face significant visitor downturns. Determined to adapt, Ocean Sky Pattaya is shifting focus towards emerging markets including Indian, Russian, and Vietnamese tourists. The management plans to revamp the onboard experience, offering tailored entertainment and services to attract a more diverse international audience. Buncha emphasised the need for government intervention to restore Thailand’s tarnished image, urging quicker crisis management, enhanced communication, and proactive safety campaigns to restore tourism confidence. The cruise's struggle underscores the inherent risks of overreliance on a singular market, as evidenced by the current predicament with Chinese tourists. For Ocean Sky Pattaya, the path to recovery lies in diversification and innovation, alongside a supportive governmental framework to revive Thailand’s tourism sector and reassure global travellers of its safety and appeal. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-06

PM Shinawatra Addresses Thaksin's Hospitalisation Controversy File photo for reference only Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra addressed ongoing concerns regarding former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra's extended stay at the Police General Hospital, where he has been hospitalised on the 14th floor since returning to Thailand. Speaking to the press on Tuesday, Paetongtarn indicated that she has not received the Medical Council's request for information about Thaksin’s hospital stay. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359915-pm-shinawatra-addresses-thaksins-hospitalisation-controversy/

File photo for reference only Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra addressed ongoing concerns regarding former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra's extended stay at the Police General Hospital, where he has been hospitalised on the 14th floor since returning to Thailand. Speaking to the press on Tuesday, Paetongtarn indicated that she has not received the Medical Council's request for information about Thaksin’s hospital stay. When questioned about any possible foreknowledge of Thaksin's medical condition, the Prime Minister remarked, "If I told you the truth, would you believe me?" She confirmed, however, that Thaksin is indeed unwell and recently underwent surgery. The discourse comes amidst impending legal proceedings where the Supreme Court’s Criminal Division for Political Office Holders has summoned Thaksin to testify on June 13. This inquiry looks into whether his hospitalisation is an attempt to evade incarceration following his royal pardon-reduced one-year prison sentence for corruption-related charges. Paetongtarn dismissed theories about potential political motives aimed at disrupting coalition dynamics, asserting that the court's actions reflect procedural due process rather than speculative manoeuvres. She stated confidently that Thaksin would present the necessary evidence to clarify the situation. Touching on public scepticism over Thaksin’s health claims and alleged preferential treatment, Paetongtarn added, "People who doubt will continue to doubt, regardless of the evidence presented." She emphasised the need for resilience, highlighting her father's advancing age and slower recovery, saying, "Our family has been through a lot. We must stay strong." This scenario follows Thaksin’s return to Thailand in August 2023 after 15 years of self-exile, coupled with his immediate hospital admission, raising eyebrows and triggering a slew of petitions for official scrutiny. While previous petitions were dismissed, the high court's current investigation signals a serious reconsideration of prior dismissals, commanding involved parties to provide evidence justifying the hospitalisation. Apart from medical and judicial aspects, this case holds potential implications for public trust in Thailand’s justice system, as it could influence perceptions of the Pheu Thai Party, Thaksin’s political faction, and its ongoing friction with the conservative establishment. As the legal proceedings move forward, the outcome could reverberate across factional lines, shaping Thailand's political landscape and public sentiment. The Prime Minister also announced an upcoming 'Mind Month' to promote mental wellness, underscoring the need for emotional health and positivity amidst the controversies. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-06