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Picture courtesy of Daily News Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra is set to make a significant reappearance on the public stage with a keynote speech tackling international drug crimes. Scheduled for 27th May, Thaksin will present at the Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB) in Din Daeng, focusing on the theme “Drug Trafficking: Cross-Border Crime Perspectives and the Challenges of Sustainable Solutions.” This announcement follows a period of silence after Thaksin's raised profile in recent court proceedings. Earlier, he was involved in a Supreme Court hearing regarding his time spent in a police hospital. His forthcoming speech aims to address the complex challenges posed by cross-border drug trafficking and explore sustainable methods to combat these issues. Thaksin's speech is part of a broader initiative coinciding with a vital assembly of the task force dedicated to the prevention, suppression, and resolution of drug problems in Thailand. This group, comprising government officials and law enforcement agencies, gathers on the same day to discuss ongoing efforts and refine strategies to enhance their impact against narcotics-related activities. Thaksin is anticipated to discuss the importance of international cooperation and innovative policy-making to curb the rise of drug trafficking. His views are expected to stir considerable interest, given his previous governmental roles and the gravity of the drug-related problems facing the region. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Daily News 2025-05-23

Khon Kaen Taxi Drivers Gear Up for Bangkok Protest Showdown Picture courtesy of Amarin TV Khon Kaen taxi drivers announced today, May 22, their readiness to back their Bangkok counterparts by converging on Government House. The goal is to prompt serious action against unlicensed "black-plate" taxis and ride-hailing services like Grab, Bolt, and Maxim, which they claim are eating into their customer base and crippling their income. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361483-khon-kaen-taxi-drivers-gear-up-for-bangkok-protest-showdown/

Picture courtesy of Amarin TV Khon Kaen taxi drivers announced today, May 22, their readiness to back their Bangkok counterparts by converging on Government House. The goal is to prompt serious action against unlicensed "black-plate" taxis and ride-hailing services like Grab, Bolt, and Maxim, which they claim are eating into their customer base and crippling their income. At 1 p.m., frustrated Khon Kaen Airport Taxi Club members, typically stationed at the provincial airport, underscored their intent. Following a recent rally by the Bangkok Taxi Cooperative, which included threats to blockade Suvarnabhumi Airport, these drivers lament the incursion of ride-hailing apps on their livelihood. Mr. Amphon Kotboonma, heading the Khon Kaen Airport Taxi Club, shed light on the persistent struggles against unregulated private cars and “black-plate” taxis. Amid dwindling customer numbers due to limited flight schedules, the 40 registered taxis jostle for passengers alongside six black-plate taxis and over 30 app-supported private cars. Highlighting regulatory burdens, Mr. Kotboonma recounted the multitude of compliance requirements. These include licenses, insurance, engine specifications, periodic vehicle checks, and driver training, contrasting starkly with the relative freedom enjoyed by ride-hailing operators. He stressed the pressing need for governmental intervention to uphold equity and protect legal livelihoods. Adding his voice, Vice President Mr. Thaweechok Sasai decried the inaction of local police and airport officials towards cab-like, unregistered vehicles. Emphasising solidarity, he affirmed support for the Bangkok protest, promising Khon Kaen drivers’ participation should their capital city colleagues call for reinforcements to sustain pressure on the authorities. Khon Kaen drivers’ readiness signals a potential escalation in the ongoing standoff, underlining the urgency for definitive policy measures addressing the growing tension in the taxi sector. RELATED TOPIC: Bangkok Cabbies Call for Grab Service Ban at Suvarnabhumi Airport https://aseannow.com/topic/1361369-bangkok-cabbies-call-for-grab-service-ban-at-suvarnabhumi-airport/ Adapted by ASEAN Now from [source] 2025-05-23

Khon Kaen 'Secret Club' Spa Exposed as Gay Brothel in Police Raid Picture via Facebook ศูนย์ข่าวทานตะวัน ขอนแก่น Police in Khon Kaen have uncovered an illegal prostitution ring at the "Secret Club" spa, disguised as a health facility but offering sexual services to gay clients. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361481-khon-kaen-secret-club-spa-exposed-as-gay-brothel-in-police-raid/

Picture via Facebook ศูนย์ข่าวทานตะวัน ขอนแก่น Police in Khon Kaen have uncovered an illegal prostitution ring at the "Secret Club" spa, disguised as a health facility but offering sexual services to gay clients. The establishment, situated in Phimanchon Village, targeted foreign nationals, mainly from the gay community, and had been in operation for about three months. The raid followed a tip to the Khon Kaen Provincial Immigration Bureau, revealing that the spa was a cover for illicit activities rather than legitimate wellness services. During the operation, police discovered Laotian and Burmese nationals working as sex workers. Promotions for the clandestine services reportedly circulated on social media. Pretending to be a patron, an undercover officer visited the spa where he was offered sexual services for 1,600 Thai baht. Upon confirming the illegal activities, the officer alerted a team of law enforcement waiting outside, who then raided the spa. Officers confronted clients, questioned them, and searched the premises, uncovering sex workers engaged with clients. Video footage caught by Khon Kaen Weekly News shared on Facebook shows an officer addressing the gathered group, asserting control over the situation. Among those arrested were four Laotian males and one Burmese male, along with a 36-year-old Thai manager, Watchara Worraphon. Picture via Facebook ศูนย์ข่าวทานตะวัน ขอนแก่น One Laotian worker confessed to earning 1,000 baht per service, while the remaining 600 baht went to the spa's owner. The five foreign sex workers are facing charges under Section 8 for lacking work permits, facing fines from 5,000 to 50,000 baht, deportation, and a two-year work permit ban. The Burmese national is also to be charged for visa overstay. Meanwhile, the Thai manager, under Section 64, is charged with helping foreign nationals avoid arrest, with a potential five-year prison term and a 50,000 baht fine. Authorities have not yet disclosed the identity of the spa owner as investigations continue. The operation underscores ongoing efforts by police to clamp down on illegal activities disguised under legitimate businesses in Thailand. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-23

Tourist Flees Angry Thai Men After Violating Krabi Park Rules Photo via TikTok @98jeffers A foreign tourist in Krabi found himself in hot water after a viral video captured him fleeing from a group of irate Thai men. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361440-tourist-flees-angry-thai-men-after-violating-krabi-park-rules/

Thai Man Goes Viral for Riding Motorbike on Mattress in Sisaket Screenshots from @usernsm9x412dj TikTok video A Thai man has captured the internet’s imagination and a fair share of laughter after a video of his unique motorcycle ride went viral. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361441-thai-man-goes-viral-for-riding-motorbike-on-mattress-in-sisaket/

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Thai Court Orders Ex-PM Yingluck to Pay 10 Billion Baht in Rice Scheme Yingluck Shinawatra. File photo courtesy of AFP via SCMP In a significant legal decision, the Supreme Administrative Court in Thailand has ordered former Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra to pay 10.028 billion baht ($306 million) in damages related to her administration's controversial rice-pledging scheme. This ruling partially reverses an earlier judgment by the Central Administrative Court, which had annulled a 2016 order from the Ministry of Finance. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361439-thai-court-orders-ex-pm-yingluck-to-pay-10-billion-baht-in-rice-scheme/

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Picture courtesy of WUSA Two Israeli Embassy staff members were shot dead outside the Capital Jewish Museum on Wednesday night. The heartbreaking incident, announced by Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, has sparked a thorough investigation. DC Police are treating the site of the incident, opposite the FBI’s Washington Field Office, as a crime scene and urge the public to steer clear. Sources close to the situation indicate the victims were linked to the embassy, though their identities remain confidential. The Israeli embassy is closely cooperating with law enforcement to unravel the sequence of events leading to this horrifying crime. Fortunately, the Israeli ambassador was not present at the crime scene during the shooting. US Attorney General Pam Bondi and DC's Acting US Attorney Jeanine Pirro are present at the scene, overseeing the investigation. Meanwhile, Ted Deutch, CEO of the American Jewish Committee, expressed his heartbreak over the violent act which occurred during their event at the museum. His statement reflects a community reeling from an act that shattered the evening's peace. Israel’s Ambassador to the UN, Danny Danon, condemned the attack, labelling it as an anti-Semitic act of terror. His strong words underline the gravity of this crime which targeted embassy officials. As the investigation unfolds, authorities call on residents and visitors to exercise caution and heed police advisories in the area. The motive and identity of the perpetrators are yet unclear, leaving a cloud of uncertainty. Police and the embassy work diligently to provide clarity, while the community mourns this senseless loss. As events develop, all await further information to comprehend the full impact of this tragic event. Adapted by ASEAN Now from CNN 2025-05-22

Bangkok's Brave Battle: BMA Readies for Rainy Days File photo for reference only The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) is ready to tackle the city's annual rainy season onslaught, equipped and on high alert. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361395-bangkoks-brave-battle-bma-readies-for-rainy-days/

File photo for reference only The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) is ready to tackle the city's annual rainy season onslaught, equipped and on high alert. Spearheading this effort, the Drainage and Sewerage Department has rolled out comprehensive plans to fend off flooding in the Thai capital. Director Jessada Chantharaprapha revealed these preparations at a recent briefing, aligning with this year's operational plans meant to soften the impact of the heavy rains. With the official start of the rainy season declared on May 15 by the Meteorological Department, residents can rest a bit easier knowing that the BMA has bolstered its flood prevention arsenal. The department is primed with crucial infrastructure, including four massive flood tunnels, 200 high-capacity pumping stations, and 243 water gates, ready to be deployed at a moment's notice to drain rainwater efficiently. Moreover, the department has identified 349 ponds across the city as vital for water drainage, alongside strategically lowering water levels in 'monkey-cheek' reservoirs designed to retain excess rainwater. These proactive measures are aimed at alleviating potential waterlogging in the city, a notorious inconvenience during the monsoon months. Each element of the drainage system is primed to respond swiftly, mitigating potential disruptions to the daily lives of Bangkokians. This extensive logistical groundwork is borne out of a commitment to safeguard the city against the seasonal monsoons' challenges. BMA's intensified focus on drainage infrastructure marks a significant stride toward enhancing urban resilience against nature’s forces. The ongoing coordination within the city's departments underscores an unwavering dedication to urban safety and readiness. As Bangkok faces the inevitable drenching, these moves set in place will play a critical role in curtailing any major flood-related chaos. By strengthening their defences, the city inches closer to outsmarting the notoriously unpredictable weather patterns. With facilities and protocols aligned, the BMA appears more than prepared to ride out the stormy days ahead. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Nation 2025-05-22

Chinese Arrivals to Thailand Projected to Drop Nearly 30% in 2025 Photo courtesy of South China Morning Post The Bank of Thailand has dramatically reduced its forecast for Chinese tourists in 2025, expecting nearly a 30% drop. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361393-chinese-arrivals-to-thailand-projected-to-drop-nearly-30-in-2025/

Photo courtesy of South China Morning Post The Bank of Thailand has dramatically reduced its forecast for Chinese tourists in 2025, expecting nearly a 30% drop. This decrease slashes Chinese visitor numbers from 7 million to only 5 million, as explained by Pranee Sutthasri, senior director of the macroeconomic department. Consequently, the central bank has adjusted its overall foreign arrivals estimate from 39.5 million to 37.5 million for the year. Chinese tourist arrivals in 2024 fell to 6.7 million, a significant decline from the pre-pandemic peak of 11 million in 2019. The bank cites concerns over the potential impact of US tariff policies, which weigh heavily on the tourism forecast. Under more severe tariff scenarios, total foreign arrivals are projected to reach just 37 million this year. Minutes from the Bank of Thailand’s recent meetings reveal growing anxiety about the weakening tourism sector—a cornerstone of the national economy. Compounding these challenges is a shift in tourist preferences and promotion of domestic tourism by the Chinese government. The global economic slowdown, marked by extended trade tensions, is further curbing discretionary spending on international travel, notes the regulator. Additionally, average tourist spending and arrival numbers may not bounce back to the pre-pandemic highs of nearly 40 million visitors and their hefty contributions to the Thai economy. Alternative forecasts echo these concerns. Kiatnakin Phatra Research Centre (KKP Research) anticipates a modest increase to 36.2 million foreign arrivals, though noting fewer Chinese visitors. With travellers opting for destinations like Japan, the research highlights the looming downturn in tourism's contribution to Thailand’s GDP. Kasikorn Research Centre (K-Research) predicts a year-on-year decline to 34.5 million arrivals, with revenue from foreign tourists expected to fall by 3%—down to 1.62 trillion baht. From January 1 to May 11, Thailand hosted 12.9 million foreign tourists, reflecting a 1% decrease from the previous year. Future economic growth may rely on a substantial boost in foreign tourist arrivals, potentially up to 70 million by 2030, to balance a weakening manufacturing sector, declining exports, and tourism, according to KKP Research. As tourism faces new hurdles, these forecasts underscore the pivotal role it plays in shaping Thailand's economic landscape. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-05-22

Mass Investigation Launched Into Suspected Foreign-Dominated Businesses File photo courtesy of Wikipedia The Thai government has launched an extensive probe into over 46,000 foreign-controlled firms, stirring the nation's business landscape. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361373-mass-investigation-launched-into-suspected-foreign-dominated-businesses/

File photo courtesy of Wikipedia The Thai government has launched an extensive probe into over 46,000 foreign-controlled firms, stirring the nation's business landscape. Led by Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan, authorities are cracking down on what they term 'nominee-owned companies' and dodgy imports, aiming to shield local industries and promote fair play. Thailand's Deputy Commerce Minister Napintorn Srisunpang highlighted that these long-standing issues lingered due to outdated legal frameworks. The investigation reveals an alarming trend where foreign entities are allegedly bypassing the Foreign Business Act by using Thai nominees. Many such firms, especially in the lucrative sectors of tourism, e-commerce, and real estate, are accused of trafficking in products below standard. In over nine months, the Commerce Ministry reported more than 39,000 cases linked to flimsy imports or firms employing Thai proxies, causing losses estimated at around 2 billion Baht. Consequently, authorities have purged approximately 10,000 goods from digital marketplaces. Moreover, a committee spearheaded by Minister Pichai identified 857 nominee-run companies causing the treasury to bleed approximately 15 billion Baht. To curb these practices, a proposal is on the table for stricter penalties under the Foreign Business Act. Suggestions include heavier punishments for violators, potentially leading to the confiscation of assets. The planned amendments are geared towards offering a robust legal deterrent against exploiting legal loopholes. This development underscores the Thai government's commitment to clean up business practices, maintaining a fair economic environment. With the banking on stricter laws and vigilant enforcement, authorities aim to restore confidence in the market's transparency and integrity. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai PBS World 2025-05-22

Bangkok Cabbies Call for Grab Service Ban at Suvarnabhumi Airport Picture courtesy of Bangkok Airport Online Taxi drivers in Bangkok have issued a stark warning to the government: shut down the Grab ride-hailing service at Suvarnabhumi Airport or face blockades at entry and exit points. Around 50 taxi drivers, led by Thai Public Taxi Association's head, Waraphol Kaemkhunthod, staged a protest outside parliament on Tuesday, demanding the closure of Grab's service lounge at the airport by Wednesday. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361369-bangkok-cabbies-call-for-grab-service-ban-at-suvarnabhumi-airport/

Picture courtesy of Bangkok Airport Online Taxi drivers in Bangkok have issued a stark warning to the government: shut down the Grab ride-hailing service at Suvarnabhumi Airport or face blockades at entry and exit points. Around 50 taxi drivers, led by Thai Public Taxi Association's head, Waraphol Kaemkhunthod, staged a protest outside parliament on Tuesday, demanding the closure of Grab's service lounge at the airport by Wednesday. The tension has arisen from the government's recent allowance for Grab drivers to establish pick-up and drop-off spots at Suvarnabhumi, which has sparked outrage among traditional taxi drivers who feel they are being sidelined. Mr Waraphol voiced concerns that the digital shift towards ride-hailing apps is negatively impacting public taxi operators and drivers, who now find themselves at a disadvantage. The taxi drivers are appealing directly to Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit to revoke regulations permitting Hired Cars Carrying No More Than Seven Passengers and Ride-Hailing via an Electronic System. They argue these regulations disproportionately favour investors and tech platform developers while neglecting the livelihoods of traditional taxi drivers. Waraphol claims that ride-hailing apps like Grab do not fundamentally belong to Thailand, likening airports to vital "doors and windows" of the country that should not be dominated by non-Thai services. While pointing out that some app drivers have been mistaken for traditional taxi drivers in incidents involving tourist damage, he maintains the protest's neutrality, focusing solely on securing fair treatment for those in their profession. With Grab Holdings Inc, a Singapore-based company, at the heart of the controversy, taxi drivers assert that they will proceed with airport blockades if their demands are not met by the set deadline, portraying this as a choice between supporting either local taxi drivers or foreign-based app services. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-05-22

Thailand to Require Medical Certificates for Cannabis Use Within 40 Days File photo for reference only. AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit Thailand's Public Health Minister has announced a major regulation change requiring cannabis users to present medical certificates, aiming to curb recreational use. Minister Somsak Thepsutin revealed plans for the new rules, hoping to establish order after cannabis was decriminalised nearly three years ago. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361364-thailand-to-require-medical-certificates-for-cannabis-use-within-40-days/

File photo for reference only. AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit Thailand's Public Health Minister has announced a major regulation change requiring cannabis users to present medical certificates, aiming to curb recreational use. Minister Somsak Thepsutin revealed plans for the new rules, hoping to establish order after cannabis was decriminalised nearly three years ago. This move reflects ongoing efforts to regulate cannabis use amid the rapid rise in recreational consumption. Minister Somsak's proposition marks a shift towards stricter cannabis control, emphasising verified medical use prescribed by licensed professionals. He stated, "We will improve regulations on cannabis use," reinforcing the need for medical certification, applicable to both locals and foreigners. The Health Ministry aims to unveil this updated regulation within 40 days, bringing medical-focused groundwork to a previously unchecked cannabis market. Cannabis decriminalisation initially emerged as a policy driven by the Bhumjaithai Party, recognising its potential economic benefits. Yet, a surge in recreational use and cannabis-related businesses has prompted significant regulation review. Dr Somlerk Jeungsmarn, Director-General of the Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine, echoed the sentiment, suggesting potential dosage limits and penalties for non-medical use, including possible imprisonment. Despite earlier legislative delays, the new bill spearheaded by Pheu Thai aims to regulate cannabis industries more tightly, focusing on health and medical purposes. Proposed changes will demand licenses for cannabis cultivation, sales, and other related businesses, addressing past regulatory gaps. The draft, recently publicised under Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra's administration, proposes licensing mandates, albeit without an outright ban on recreational use due to political pressure from Bhumjaithai. The upcoming legislation suggests an increasingly regulated environment, with the Ministry of Public Health poised to enforce enhanced controls. While the precise implications of these changes remain to be seen, the drive towards medical certification underscores a significant pivot in Thailand’s cannabis policy, seeking to streamline usage strictly for health-orientated applications. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-05-22

Police Clamp Down on Prostitution to Protect Pattaya’s Image File photo for reference only In a dramatic turn of events on May 21st, 2025, Pattaya Police, led by Pol. Col. Anek Sathongyoo, orchestrated a massive raid to combat prostitution along Pattaya’s famed beachfront. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361362-police-clamp-down-on-prostitution-to-protect-pattaya’s-image/

Picture courtesy of Daily News In a dramatic turn of events on May 21st, 2025, Pattaya Police, led by Pol. Col. Anek Sathongyoo, orchestrated a massive raid to combat prostitution along Pattaya’s famed beachfront. The operation saw over 50 officers from key departments, including the Tourist and Immigration Police, sweeping the area in a bid to curb the illegal activities that have marred the city’s image. The joint effort resulted in the arrest of more than 50 individuals involved in prostitution activities. This crackdown comes as a response to increasing reports of solicitation by female and transgender prostitutes, especially under the cover of dark, along the beach walkways, writes Adam Judd for Pattaya News. Concerns have grown over violent incidents and crimes associated with these activities, stirring action to protect Pattaya’s tourism reputation. The operation's intent is to rejuvenate Pattaya's allure as a destination free from criminal activities. Two specialised teams were set up: one for arrests and the other for containment. The arrest team focused on capturing those suspected of soliciting clients, while the containment team ensured no suspects escaped the net. Despite their efforts, some individuals reportedly slipped away through alleyways during the operation. Following detentions, all suspects were taken to Pattaya City Police Station for processing. They will face fines and legal proceedings managed by officials from the Chonburi Provincial Social Development and Human Security office. This decisive action by the authorities underscores their commitment to restoring safety and integrity to Pattaya’s scenic beachfront. The operation highlights ongoing efforts by the Pattaya Police to maintain order and uphold the law in one of Thailand’s popular tourist hubs. It serves as a reminder of the dedication to ensuring the city remains a welcoming environment for its visitors. Picture courtesy of Daily News Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Pattaya News 2025-05-22

Thailand Ranks Among World's Safest Countries for Solo Female Travelers Picture courtesy of Vietjet Air Thailand has clinched the eighth spot among the world’s top 10 safest places for solo female travellers in 2025, as per a report published by the New York Post. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361361-thailand-ranks-among-worlds-safest-countries-for-solo-female-travelers/