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Picture courtesy: Malay Mail 20-year-old singer Chayada Prao-hom, affectionately known as Ping Chayada, has passed away from septicemia, after a series of massage treatments. Her death has raised questions regarding the safety of such services, especially after routine sessions. Chayada, a promising young look thung/mor lam singer, initially sought relief from neck and shoulder pain at a local massage parlour in Udon Thani on October 5th. Over the course of the following weeks, her condition deteriorated, leading to her untimely death on December 8th. Dr Somchaichote Piyawatwela, Udon Thani's provincial health chief, disclosed that Chayada received neck massages over three separate occasions. Initially, the treatments seemed harmless; however, she soon began to experience worrying symptoms including tingling sensations, numbness, and extreme stiffness that progressively worsened. Concerned about her escalating symptoms, Chayada sought medical assistance at Piboonrak Hospital and was later transferred to other medical facilities. It was during this period that she was diagnosed with transverse myelitis, a rare neurological condition caused by spinal cord inflammation, though her neck bones were intact. Despite medical intervention, Chayada's condition showed little improvement. After being discharged, her symptoms re-emerged with alarming severity on November 18th. She was admitted to intensive care but tragically succumbed to blood poisoning a few weeks later. The precise cause of the septicemia remains unclear, though Dr Somchaichote indicated that being bedridden could have exacerbated her condition. Authorities are investigating to determine whether the massages directly contributed to her death. The massage parlour, along with its staff, is reportedly operating with all necessary licences. Chayada's family, understandably devastated, is considering further actions, including an autopsy, to establish a possible connection between the treatments and her death. This incident has prompted a broader discussion about the oversight of massage services, particularly in light of a recent unrelated incident where a tourist from Singapore lost his life following a massage at Patong Beach in Phuket. As the investigation continues, the public health officials assure full cooperation, urging patrons to exercise caution when undergoing similar treatments, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-12-10

Thai Politician Asserts Laws Can't Prevent Coups Picture courtesy: Siam Rath On 10th December, former Nakhon Si Thammarat MP, Thepthai Senpong, voiced on Facebook that no law can deter military coups in Thailand, addressing recent debates sparked by the proposed Ministry of Defence Reorganisation Bill. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345800-thai-politician-asserts-laws-cant-prevent-coups/

Picture courtesy: Siam Rath On 10th December, former Nakhon Si Thammarat MP, Thepthai Senpong, voiced on Facebook that no law can deter military coups in Thailand, addressing recent debates sparked by the proposed Ministry of Defence Reorganisation Bill. The bill, initiated by Pheu Thai Party's List MP, Prayuth Siripanich, and others, aims to grant the Cabinet authority to appoint high-ranking military officials to allegedly prevent coups. However, it has faced widespread criticism, including opposition from the coalition party, Bhumjaithai. Thepthai, drawing on his political experience, argues the bill is more about political scoring with hardcore groups than effective governance, noting that past coups have gone unprevented by any legal measures. Despite 13 coups in Thai history, coup leaders often discard constitutions and laws post-coup to establish control. He cautions that political interference in military appointments could provoke resistance from within the military and destabilise national security, citing historical precedents like the 1991 coup. Thepthai suggests the best defence against coups is corruption-free governance, as political corruption often provides the pretext for military intervention, illustrated by past coups against governments led by Chatichai Choonhavan and Thaksin Shinawatra. He warns that entrenched political corruption, with parties spending vast sums on vote-buying, perpetuates a destructive cycle, leading to corruption in governance and inviting coups as political "solutions." This results in a toxic cycle influenced by both military and political misconduct. reported Siam Rath. -- 2024-12-10

Anutin Opposes Coup Prevention Bill in Thailand Anutin Charnvirakul. Picture courtesy; NNT The Bhumjaithai Party, led by Anutin Charnvirakul, has expressed firm opposition to a controversial bill by Pheu Thai Party that aims to amend the Defence Ministry Administration Act. This bill, perceived as an effort to restrict the military's capability to conduct coups, has sparked significant debate. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345799-anutin-opposes-coup-prevention-bill-in-thailand/

Anutin Charnvirakul. Picture courtesy; NNT The Bhumjaithai Party, led by Anutin Charnvirakul, has expressed firm opposition to a controversial bill by Pheu Thai Party that aims to amend the Defence Ministry Administration Act. This bill, perceived as an effort to restrict the military's capability to conduct coups, has sparked significant debate. Anutin, also the Interior Minister, voiced scepticism about the bill's potential effectiveness in preventing coups. He argued that it's often the actions of politicians themselves that create environments conducive to military intervention. “If we avoid creating such conditions, coups are less likely,” Anutin commented, reflecting on his experiences since the 1991 coup against Chatichai Choohavan. Emphasising political integrity, Anutin advised politicians to serve with honesty and reduce societal divisions to prevent future coups. He stated unequivocally that Bhumjaithai, part of the ruling coalition, would not support the bill in parliament. Defence Minister Phumtham Wechaiyachai attempted to assuage fears that the bill might diminish military authority and lead to friction between the government and armed forces, highlighting that the bill is under rigorous review by a governmental panel and the Council of Defence. “There is no intention to undermine military power,” Phumtham assured, seeking to maintain the harmonious relationship between the government and military. Key aspects of the bill include shifting the power to appoint generals to a committee appointed by the cabinet, rather than permitting the armed forces to make these decisions internally. Furthermore, it designates the Prime Minister as the chair of the Defence Council, a role traditionally held by the Defence Minister. Criteria for aspiring generals have been specified, barring those associated with undue influence, drug trade, human trafficking, and environmental destruction. Those under disciplinary or criminal probes also face restrictions unless their infractions are minor. The bill expressly forbids military involvement in government takeover attempts. Additionally, it empowers military officers to refuse orders that support unconstitutional power seizures, protecting them from prosecution under military law. Penalties are stipulated for violators to include temporary suspension by order of the Prime Minister, facilitating an investigation. As the bill stands, it's currently open for public comment on the parliament's website until 1st January. The unfolding discussions and the bill's potential implications highlight a critical debate on balancing military authority and democratic governance in Thailand, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-12-10

Police Investigate 'Foreign Mafia" Claims in Pathum Thani Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Reports surfaced on social media alleging that foreign mafias had taken over streets in Pathum Thani’s Mueang Ake area, setting up shops and charging for parking. In response, local authorities conducted a swift investigation. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345796-police-investigate-foreign-mafia-claims-in-pathum-thani/

Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Reports surfaced on social media alleging that foreign mafias had taken over streets in Pathum Thani’s Mueang Ake area, setting up shops and charging for parking. In response, local authorities conducted a swift investigation. On 9th December, Major General Panumas Boonyalak, Acting Commissioner of the Immigration Bureau, ordered an urgent inquiry after claims emerged of foreign mafia activities in Mueang Ake. The reports suggested that street vendors were allegedly extorting parking fees from the public. The probe, led by Pathum Thani Immigration Office, included local police, employment authorities, and other agencies. Officials inspected Ekcharoen Road and found 20 vendor stalls lining both sides of the street. The investigation concluded that there were no stalls obstructing traffic, and no foreign individuals were found managing the stalls as reported. Additionally, there were no incidents of extortion for parking discovered. However, Mrs La Somchanmavong, a 32-year-old Lao national, was apprehended for working without a permit. Legal action was also taken against Ms Chatchadaporn for employing a foreigner illegally. Employers were fined for failing to notify the registrar about foreign hires within the required 15-day period. Major General Panumas confirmed that no extensive wrongdoing or fees for parking were found. Nonetheless, he emphasised the importance of regular inspections to prevent such occurrences and encouraged people to report any suspicious activities to their local Immigration Office or call the nationwide hotline at 191, reported Siam Rath. -- 2024-12-10

British man’s Thai-high’ trip goes up in smoke at Manchester customs by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of JustPark Another British man has been nabbed in a high-stakes arrest after being caught returning through Manchester Airport customs with two suitcases full of cannabis from Thailand. The alleged British drug mule, Ahmed Sohail, who claimed he went to Thailand to lose some weight, ended up losing much more than he bargained for. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345728-british-man’s-thai-high’-trip-goes-up-in-smoke-at-manchester-customs/

Picture courtesy of JustPark by Bob Scott Another British man has been nabbed in a high-stakes arrest after being caught returning through Manchester Airport customs with two suitcases full of cannabis from Thailand. The alleged British drug mule, Ahmed Sohail, who claimed he went to Thailand to lose some weight, ended up losing much more than he bargained for. Stopped by eagle-eyed Border Force officials, the 26 year old drug trafficker was carrying two suitcases that piqued their suspicion. While Sohail insisted he had been on an indulgent eight-day jaunt in Bangkok, a scan revealed his luggage contained not just holiday mementoes but 40 kilogrammes of the class B drug along with a crafty Apple tracking device. Prosecutor Sophie Kenny detailed the find. “After his arrest on August 21 this year, x-ray machines were used to search the suitcases. Within both of them were multiple vacuum-sealed packages of a herbal substance. It was tested and found to be cannabis.” Manchester Evening News reported that Sohail confessed to being caught in a web spun by others and admitted to a role in the dodgy operation without any financial gain. Despite the gravity of the situation, he received a suspended sentence. In his defence, barrister Benjamin Kaufman argued that Sohail was merely a pawn, manipulated by more seasoned criminals. “He played a limited function. He appears to have been taken advantage of by those more criminally sophisticated than him.” Kaufman added that Sohail was deeply worried about his mother’s stage 4 cancer diagnosis. Picture of Manchester Airport courtesy of Business Traveller Judge Suzanna Goddard KC, handing him an 18-month suspended sentence, described him as “intelligent but foolish and naïve.” “In life you are faced with choices and in the future, you need to make the right choice.” Sohail, from Cargate Walk, Manchester, must now complete 200 hours of unpaid work and undergo 10 days of rehabilitation activity requirements. Sohail’s drug bust is not an isolated case. There has been several similar high profile cases of British nationals being apprehended trying to smuggles cannabis through Manchester Airport. A British dad of three late last month was sentenced to two years behind bars for an audacious attempt to smuggle nearly £100,000 (4.4 million baht) worth of cannabis from Thailand. The 42 year old British man, gripped by grief and desperation after the death of his girlfriend, confessed he took the illicit gamble in hopes of using the cash to reunite with his estranged children. In another related case last month, a down-and-out drug mule took a gamble to clear his debt to his own mother – and lost big-time at Manchester Airport. Dean Pharoah, who owed cash to his mum, tried to smuggle over £200,000 (approximately 8 million baht) worth of cannabis into the UK after a holiday in Thailand. But UK Border Force officers had their suspicions and swooped as he passed through the Nothing to Declare channel, putting an end to his high-stakes plan. Meanwhile, Netflix star Olga Bednarska incredibly escaped a long prison sentence despite being nabbed at Manchester Airport smuggling cannabis worth £150,000 (6.75 million baht) through customs. The star of Netflix’s hit reality show Too Hot to Handle, found herself entangled in a scandalous drug-smuggling affair after Manchester Airport customs officers intercepted the 27 year old, as she returned from Thailand, and uncovered nearly 40 kilogrammes of cannabis stashed inside her luggage. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-09

124 gay participants arrested at underwear drug party in Bangkok hotel by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ ดาวแปดแฉก Officers from Thong Lo Police Station arrested 124 gay men and women, including doctors and background actors, at an underwear drug party held in a hotel room in Bangkok yesterday. Police were alerted by a witness who reported suspicious activity after observing a large number of Thai and foreign men entering a room on the 20th floor of a hotel in the Wattana district of Bangkok at approximately 1.30am, December 8. Acting on this tip-off, officers conducted a raid on the hotel room. The party reportedly catered to gay participants, with attendance requiring prior registration. All attendees were instructed to strip down to their underwear upon arrival. When officers arrived, they encountered a worker hired to act as a receptionist, managing the list of registered guests in front of the lift in the hotel lobby. Upon entering the room, police found a group of Thai and foreign gay men and women, as reported. The attendees, dressed in underwear, were dancing to loud music and consuming alcohol. Officers proceeded to search each partygoer and discovered drugs in the possession of some attendees. The substances included ecstasy and ketamine. All party participants were subsequently taken to the police station for further drug testing. Photo via Facebook/ สถานีตำรวจนครบาลทองหล่อ According to a report from Channel 7, a total of 124 people attended the party. Of these, 31 were found in possession of drugs, 66 tested positive for drug use, and the remaining 27 were free of any illegal substances. Those who tested negative for drugs will have their details recorded by the police, while those who tested positive will be sent for rehabilitation. Individuals found in possession of drugs will face legal proceedings at Bangkok South District Court and Bangkok South Criminal Court. Photo via Facebook/ สถานีตำรวจนครบาลทองหล่อ Penalties for drug possession will vary depending on the quantity of drugs found. Channel 7 also reported that some attendees included doctors, who should be well aware of the harmful effects and legal implications of drug use, as well as background actors from a popular boys love series. Photo via Facebook/ สถานีตำรวจนครบาลทองหล่อ Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-09

Thai Floods Unleash Chaos: Expert Blames Human Actions Picture courtesy: Thai Rath The devastating floods sweeping across Thailand have claimed over 50 lives in the north this year and more than 25 recently in the south. According to Pianporn “Pai” Deetes, Southeast Asia Programme Director for International Rivers, human actions are significantly responsible for this catastrophe. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345714-thai-floods-unleash-chaos-expert-blames-human-actions/

Picture courtesy: Thai Rath The devastating floods sweeping across Thailand have claimed over 50 lives in the north this year and more than 25 recently in the south. According to Pianporn “Pai” Deetes, Southeast Asia Programme Director for International Rivers, human actions are significantly responsible for this catastrophe. Speaking out, Pianporn identifies deforestation, dam construction, and river encroachment as the leading culprits behind the devastation. The relentless clearing of forests, particularly for corn cultivation to feed livestock, not only drives flooding but also contributes to the seasonal PM2.5 haze blanketing northern Thailand. It’s a dire situation, leaving locals trapped in a state of "half flood, half haze,” as Pianporn remarks. Adding to the turmoil is illegal mining in Myanmar’s Shan State, which analyses reveal may reflect a surge in gold mining activities following Myanmar's political coup three years ago. The lack of a media or civil presence in the region shrouds such operations in secrecy, worsening the problem. “In Myanmar, there are fewer reports because journalism is absent, leaving room for activities like mining in the Mae Sai River’s upper reaches. These operations trigger ‘mud floods’ affecting both Mae Sai district in Chiang Rai and Myanmar’s Tachileik district,” highlights Pianporn. Sediments from deforestation pile onto communities, amplifying flood damage. In Mae Sai, recovery efforts are ongoing, with locals working tirelessly to clear mud from their homes. Additionally, upstream dam operations, particularly those on the Mekong River, exacerbate northern Thailand’s flooding. Recent rains in southern Yunnan, China, prompted dam water releases that impede floodwater drainage in areas like Chiang Rai, Pianporn explains. “The flood this year relates to dam operations on the Mekong because rainfall in southern Yunnan caused the dams to release water." Given the interconnected nature of these waterways, Pianporn urges collaboration among governments, including China, for effective water resource management. Another flood factor is encroachment along riverbanks. A historian informed Pianporn that parts of Chiang Rai, now settled, were historically river courses—unknown to many present-day residents. “I talked with a historian. My foundation’s office in Chiang Rai is actually on an ancient river course,” she recounts. Pianporn argues against flood walls, warning of potential failure and advocates for nature-based solutions like “sponge cities,” integrating urban spaces with natural water bodies. In some high-risk areas, relocating communities may be necessary but must be approached with fairness and inclusivity, ensuring those affected receive appropriate compensation. Addressing these challenges requires working with nature and bringing diverse stakeholders together. “The key is to understand the real problems, identify main factors, and engage a wide array of voices—experts, farmers, engineers, and urban residents,” emphasises Pianporn. Collective action and an inclusive dialogue among these parties are vital to crafting sustainable solutions to this ongoing crisis, she stresses, citing a report from the Bangkok Post. -- 2024-12-09

PM Paetongtarn to outline key policies in public address tomorrow by Ryan Turner PM Paetongtarn during her inauguration speech | Photo via @ingshin/X Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra is set to deliver a significant public address tomorrow, December 10, where she will highlight her Cabinet’s accomplishments over the past three months and underscore the importance of the government’s key policies for the upcoming year. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345713-pm-paetongtarn-to-outline-key-policies-in-public-address-tomorrow/

PM Paetongtarn during her inauguration speech | Photo via @ingshin/X by Ryan Turner Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra is set to deliver a significant public address tomorrow, December 10, where she will highlight her Cabinet’s accomplishments over the past three months and underscore the importance of the government’s key policies for the upcoming year. The address, titled 2025 Empowering Thais: A Real Possibility, will commence at 10am and will be broadcast live on NBT2HD, as well as streamed on the channel’s Facebook page. Key initiatives to be discussed include the digital money handout scheme, the village fund, and various economic stimulus measures, according to a post made by the PM on Facebook and reiterated on X yesterday. The address will take place at the National Broadcasting Services of Thailand (NBT) headquarters on Vibhavadi Rangsit Road, with around 500 guests expected to attend. Among those invited are Cabinet ministers, senior ministerial officials, department and division heads, provincial governors, military leaders, the national police chief, ministerial spokespersons, and heads of state enterprises. A recent Suan Dusit Poll has revealed that many Thais are eagerly anticipating more cash handouts and measures to alleviate living costs, which are often perceived as traditional new year gifts from the government, reported Bangkok Post. Digital wallet | Photo via Surachai Piraksa/Bangkok Post Pornpan Buathong, President of Suan Dusit Poll, commented on the findings, highlighting the extent to which the global economic situation is affecting people’s lives. “The impact of the sluggish economy now is holding back festive spending after the survey found that only 56.02% of poll respondents intended to travel over new year.” In other news, in a dramatic U-turn, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra pulled the plug on a proposal to crank up the value-added tax (VAT) following a storm of public outrage. The PM took to X (formerly Twitter) today, December 6, decisively posting: “No VAT adjustment to 15%.” This swift decision emerged from a huddle at Government House with Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira and her advisory team. The government found itself under fire after Pichai, who also serves as Deputy Prime Minister, floated the eyebrow-raising idea of spiking VAT from 7% to 15% on Tuesday. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-09

Monsoon system brings heavy rain to southern Thailand by Ryan Turner Photo via KhaoSod A new monsoon system is set to sweep across southern Thailand, bringing heavy rainfall to nine provinces. The Meteorological Department of Thailand (TMD) warned residents to be cautious of potential hazards due to the severe weather. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345711-monsoon-system-brings-heavy-rain-to-southern-thailand/

Photo via KhaoSod by Ryan Turner A new monsoon system is set to sweep across southern Thailand, bringing heavy rainfall to nine provinces. The Meteorological Department of Thailand (TMD) warned residents to be cautious of potential hazards due to the severe weather. Meanwhile, northern Thailand is experiencing a drop in temperature and strong winds. The latest forecast from the TMD indicates that a new cold air mass from China is spreading over upper Thailand and the South China Sea. This atmospheric condition is causing cooler weather, accompanied by strong winds, and a decrease in temperature by one to three degrees Celsius (°C). Particularly in the mountainous and highland areas, the weather is expected to be cold. The northeast monsoon covering the Gulf of Thailand and the southern region is gaining strength, resulting in heavy rain in some areas of the lower southern region. Air quality in upper Thailand is expected to improve as strong winds and good air circulation reduce the accumulation of dust and haze. There will be light rain in some parts of the upper region, with minimum temperatures ranging from 19 to 22°C and maximum temperatures between 31 and 33°C. The mountaintops will experience cold weather with minimum temperatures between eight and 15°C, and eastern winds will blow at speeds of five to 15 kilometres per hour (km/h). In the northeastern region, the morning will be cool with strong winds, and temperatures will slightly decrease, with minimum temperatures between 16 and 21°C and maximum temperatures from 30 to 32°C. The highlands will be cold, with minimum temperatures from nine to 15°C. Northeastern winds will have speeds of 10 to 30 km/h. Temperature drop The central region will also be cool in the morning with strong winds, and temperatures will drop slightly. Minimum temperatures will range from 21 to 23°C, and maximum temperatures will be between 30 and 32°C, with northeastern winds at speeds of 10 to 25 km/h. The eastern region will experience partly cloudy weather with strong winds and a slight temperature drop. Minimum temperatures will range from 21 to 24°C, and maximum temperatures from 33 to 35°C. Northeastern winds will blow at speeds of 15 to 30 km/h. The sea will have waves about 1 metre high, with offshore waves reaching 1 to 2 metres. In the southern region (east coast), thunderstorms are expected in 40% of the area, with heavy rain in some locations, particularly in the provinces of Nakhon Si Thammarat, Songkhla, Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwat. Minimum temperatures will range from 24 to 26°C, and maximum temperatures will be between 30 and 32°C. From Nakhon Si Thammarat upwards, northeastern winds will blow at speeds of 15 to 35 km/h, with the sea having waves 1 to 2 metres high, and waves exceeding 2 metres in stormy areas. From Songkhla downwards, northeastern winds will blow at speeds of 20 to 35 km/h, with the sea having waves about 2 metres high and exceeding 2 metres in stormy areas. The southern region (west coast) will experience thunderstorms in 30% of the area, mostly in the provinces of Phang Nga, Krabi, Trang, and Satun. Minimum temperatures will range from 23 to 25°C, and maximum temperatures will be between 32 and 33°C. Eastern winds will blow at speeds of 15 to 35 km/h, with the sea having waves about 1 metre high, and offshore waves reaching 1 to 2 metres. In stormy areas, waves will exceed 2 metres. Bangkok and its vicinity will have partly cloudy weather with strong winds and a slight temperature decrease. Minimum temperatures will range from 23 to 25°C, and maximum temperatures will be between 32 and 35°C. Northeastern winds will blow at speeds of 10 to 25 km/h. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-09

COVID-19 Severity Fades, But Virus Remains, says Dr. Yong Dr. Yong. File photo courtesy: NNT Professor Yong Poovorawan from Chulalongkorn University delivered an update on the current state of COVID-19, highlighting its evolution over time. While the pandemic has ended this year, the virus continues to persist. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345709-covid-19-severity-fades-but-virus-remains-says-dr-yong/

Dr. Yong. File photo courtesy: NNT Professor Yong Poovorawan from Chulalongkorn University delivered an update on the current state of COVID-19, highlighting its evolution over time. While the pandemic has ended this year, the virus continues to persist. Reflecting on the pandemic's journey, Professor Yong pointed out that the initial years saw high mortality rates and the need for stringent responses such as widespread vaccinations. With the development of immunity through vaccines and natural infections, the severity has now significantly reduced. He compared the progression with the 1918 Spanish flu pandemic, which initially caused millions of deaths but eventually evolved into a seasonal strain. Similarly, COVID-19 has transitioned from causing widespread pneumonia and filling ICU wards to becoming a more routine respiratory illness. Despite some criticisms that early responses were excessive given the milder current situation, Professor Yong argued that without those measures, the impact, especially in the early years, would have been catastrophic, potentially causing a 1% fatality rate akin to the Spanish flu, reported Naew Na Ultimately, COVID-19 remains with us, albeit in a less threatening form. Its journey underscores the importance of adapting health measures to the evolving threat while recognising that the virus, like many others, is unlikely to disappear entirely. -- 2024-12-09

Naked Russian man rescued by speedboat hero near Pattaya by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Expedia A naked and exhausted Russian man was dramatically rescued by a heroic speedboat driver headed to Koh Lan off the coast of Pattaya. The incident, which unfolded about six kilometres from Pattaya, grabbed headlines due to the man’s dire predicament. Pracharat Satsuk, a 34 year old speedboat operator, revealed how he stumbled upon the struggling swimmer during his regular route, ferrying around 20 foreign tourists to the beloved island hotspot of Koh Lan. The Russian was discovered adrift, visibly fatigued, in the choppy waters between Bali Hai Pier and Koh Lan. Spotting the man’s distress, Satsuk sprang into action, flinging a life buoy and carefully hauling him aboard. On the boat, Satsuk offered the man a towel and desperately-needed drinking water, attending to his immediate needs with compassion. “The bloke was knackered, absolutely wiped out. His body had cuts, probably from the salty water. Luckily, the current wasn’t strong. He wasn’t swept too far out. If he’d had worse luck, he could have been minced by the propellers.” The Russian later admitted to Satsuk and the captivated tourists that he’d ambitiously set off for a night-time swim from Pattaya with dreams of reaching Koh Lan. However, his stamina failed him, and he found himself stranded, unable to finish the swim. Picture of naked Russian man courtesy of Bangkok Post This gripping tale shines a spotlight on the perilous risks of attempting long-distance swims in open water without proper planning or support. Satsuk’s quick-thinking actions and the calm sea conditions were instrumental in averting what could have been a tragic outcome. This daring rescue serves as a stark reminder of the need for vigilance and readiness for those navigating the bustling waters around tourist hotspots such as Pattaya and Koh Lan. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-09

Thailand and UK Discuss Prospects for Free Trade Agreement Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Thailand's Commerce Minister, Phichai Naripatapan, recently held discussions with British Ambassador Mark Gooding to explore economic cooperation between Thailand and the United Kingdom. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345701-thailand-and-uk-discuss-prospects-for-free-trade-agreement/

Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Thailand's Commerce Minister, Phichai Naripatapan, recently held discussions with British Ambassador Mark Gooding to explore economic cooperation between Thailand and the United Kingdom. Central to their talks was the potential development of a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) aimed at boosting trade and investment ties between the two countries. Meeting earlier this month, Phichai and Gooding reaffirmed both nations' commitment to enhancing trade relationships through mechanisms such as the Joint Economic and Trade Committee (JETCO). These discussions aim to foster an improved business climate and facilitate trade and investment under the Enhanced Trade Partnership umbrella, covering key sectors like agriculture, tourism, and healthcare. Phichai also mentioned a memorandum of understanding signed in September with Douglas Alexander, the UK's Trade Minister, which supports hosting the second JETCO meeting in 2025. This meeting will coincide with celebrations of 170 years of diplomatic relations between Thailand and the UK. Furthermore, Thailand emphasised that strengthening their trade partnership could lay the groundwork for future FTA negotiations. An agreement could significantly enhance trade value and investment, a sentiment echoed by business communities in both countries. Lastly, Thailand expressed gratitude to the UK for supporting its potential membership in the OECD and committed to facilitating smoother foreign trade and investment processes within the country, particularly in targeted industries like electronics, data centres, and pharmaceuticals. Throughout the first ten months of 2023, the UK was Thailand's 22nd largest global trading partner and fourth within Europe, with a bilateral trade value of $5.54 billion. Thailand enjoyed a trade surplus, exporting significant goods like processed chicken and automotive parts to the UK, reported Thai Rath. -- 2024-12-09

Naked Russian Man Rescued from Sea Between Pattaya and Koh Larn Picture courtesy: FM91 A daring escapade took an unexpected turn for a Russian man found adrift and naked between Pattaya and Koh Larn. On December 8, 2024, what started as an adventurous feat of endurance ended in a fortunate rescue. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345699-naked-russian-man-rescued-from-sea-between-pattaya-and-koh-larn/

Picture courtesy: FM91 A daring escapade took an unexpected turn for a Russian man found adrift and naked between Pattaya and Koh Larn. On December 8, 2024, what started as an adventurous feat of endurance ended in a fortunate rescue. Mr. Pracharat, a seasoned speedboat driver, was ferrying more than 20 tourists to Koh Larn when he spotted an unusual sight—a man floating in the waters approximately six kilometres offshore, near the Hin Kong buoy channel. This location is situated between Koh Larn and Bali Hai Pier, far enough from the coast that swimming unaided poses significant danger. Reacting swiftly, Mr. Pracharat brought his boat to a halt and threw a life jacket to the stranger. The man, who turned out to be a Russian tourist, was found in an exhausted state, completely naked, and bearing festering wounds likely caused by prolonged exposure to seawater. Once aboard, the rescued man was provided with towels for coverage and given water to rehydrate. He was then transported to the Koh Larn District Office for further assistance and processing. Remarkably, the relatively calm sea currents of the day contributed to his survival, preventing him from drifting too far out or encountering potential harm from passing boats. During the journey back, a conversation unfolded between the speedboat passengers and the rescued man. It emerged that the tourist had embarked on his swim from Pattaya Beach the previous night, aiming to reach Koh Larn—an adventurous goal that turned precarious as the currents led him astray. Mr. Pracharat noted that while such incidents are not unheard of, this was his first personal encounter with someone attempting such a perilous swim. The incident underscores both the spirit of adventure and the inherent dangers of underestimating nature's power. This event, thankfully concluding with a dramatic yet safe rescue, highlights the need for caution and respect for the sea. It serves as a timely reminder to adventurers and tourists alike to prioritise safety over thrill, ensuring that future explorations do not end in potential peril, reported Superball for FM91. -- 2024-12-09

Foreigners and Thais Arrested in Underwear at Bangkok Hotel Party Picture courtesy: Siam Rath In an extraordinary crackdown, Thai police swept into an unauthorised gathering in Bangkok's Watthana district, arresting over 120 scantily clad individuals at a hotel party floor. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345691-foreigners-and-thais-arrested-in-underwear-at-bangkok-hotel-party/

Picture courtesy: Siam Rath In an extraordinary crackdown, Thai police swept into an unauthorised gathering in Bangkok's Watthana district, arresting over 120 scantily clad individuals at a hotel party floor. Early on Sunday morning, officers raided Room 2001 of the fashionable S31 Hotel, ending an event that veered into illegal territory. Pol Col Pansa Amarapitak, commanding officer at Thong Lor, recounted the striking scene. Attendees, including both Thai and foreign nationals, were discovered in various states of undress, allegedly under the influence of drugs such as ecstasy and ketamine. The majority were identified as gay men, with a small number of women also present. This wasn’t the first time the venue was flagged. Police had been tipped off about a similar party just the night before, from Friday evening rolling into Saturday morning. Their attempts to infiltrate the festive gathering via a private social media group had previously been thwarted, but persistence led them back to the premises. Forewarned of the repeated partying, police entered Room 2001 in the early hours, interrupting the lively assembly of guests. Alongside offerings of food and drink, authorities found illicit substances shadowing the celebratory atmosphere. Although the party had initiated elsewhere, guests reconvened at the hotel for a secondary round. Drug testing on-site revealed that a significant portion of the attendees were embroiled in narcotic use. Specifically, 31 individuals, including one woman, were in possession of drugs, while 66 others, another woman among them, showed signs of consumption. Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Fortunately, 27 guests tested negative for drug residue and were subsequently released. However, the raid has drawn attention to such clandestine gatherings and the prevalence of drugs within these circles. Remarkably, the attendees included professionals, such as doctors and individuals associated with the beauty sector, adding further intrigue to the incident. As investigations continue, reported Bangkok Post, -- 2024-12-09