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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/

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. This accolade bolsters Thailand's status as a prime destination where women can feel secure while exploring individually. With its warm hospitality and extensive tourism industry, Thailand has become synonymous with safety and welcome for women traipsing through its diverse landscapes. Popular travel guides Adventurous Kate and Be My Travel Muse are singing Thailand’s praises, particularly highlighting the nation’s robust tourism infrastructure and the genuine friendliness of its people. The country stands out as an unparalleled haven for women desiring new adventures within a supportive and secure environment. Notably, Be My Travel Muse also singles out Thailand as the premier spot in Asia for female solo travellers, applauding its variety of attractions and ease of transport that simplify independent exploration. Thai tourism authorities herald these recognitions as validation of their relentless efforts to boost visitor safety while crafting enriching travel experiences. With a reputation steeped in warm welcomes and a well-honed tourism sector, it's little wonder that Thailand continues to charm wanderers from across the globe. As safety concerns lessen, more women are encouraged to set out alone and see the wonders Thailand offers in sheer comfort and security. The heightened global acknowledgement of Thailand as a beacon of safety is poised to fortify its ambition to rise as a leading travel locale. This fuels international assurance in the Thai tourism landscape, further propelling the “Amazing Thailand” brand mantra to new heights. With its eye on the prize, Thailand is reshaping landscapes and minds by promoting a destination where women can discover their intrepid spirit in safety and style. Adapted by ASEAN Now from THai Government PR Department 2025-05-22

Ex-Air Hostess Claims £1.5M Drug Stitch-Up in Sri Lanka Photo courtesy of The Sun Charlotte May Lee, once a British air hostess, is at the centre of a harrowing legal ordeal after her arrest in Sri Lanka. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361327-ex-air-hostess-claims-£15m-drug-stitch-up-in-sri-lanka/

Phuket Immigration Cracks Down on Visa Overstays, Arrests Four Foreign Nationals Pictures courtesy of Phuket Immigration Facebook Phuket has become the latest focal point in Thailand's intensified campaign against visa overstays, as Immigration officers conduct a strategic crackdown to reinforce the nation's immigration laws. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361328-phuket-immigration-cracks-down-on-visa-overstays-arrests-four-foreign-nationals/

Beware of Tourist Scams: Bangkok Named Top Hotspot for Fraud Photo courtesy of TakeMe Tour’s Blog If you're planning a holiday in Thailand, be vigilant with your spending. Bangkok has been identified as one of the world's leading hotspots for tourist scams, with a significant portion of fraud cases tied to questionable taxi and car rental dealings. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361329-beware-of-tourist-scams-bangkok-named-top-hotspot-for-fraud/

to continue: Thailand Live Thursday 22 May 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1361324-thailand-live-thursday-22-may-2025/

Warning Issued: Even Indirect Defamation Remains Illegal Under Thai Law Picture courtesy of Human Rights Facebook Social media uproar! Lawyer James advises that using defamatory language, even without naming an individual, can still constitute defamation under Thai law. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361286-warning-issued-even-indirect-defamation-remains-illegal-under-thai-law/

Ex-Air Hostess Claims £1.5M Drug Stitch-Up in Sri Lanka Photo courtesy of The Sun Charlotte May Lee, once a British air hostess, is at the centre of a harrowing legal ordeal after her arrest in Sri Lanka. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361327-ex-air-hostess-claims-£15m-drug-stitch-up-in-sri-lanka/

Drama at Wat Pho: General Prawit’s Stairfall Sparks Concern Picture courtesy of Khaosod Thai edition A video has emerged showing the moment General Prawit Wongsuwan, leader of the Palang Pracharath Party, slipped and fell on the stairs at Wat Pho, Bangkok. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361299-drama-at-wat-pho-general-prawit’s-stairfall-sparks-concern/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod (Thai edition) A video has emerged showing the moment General Prawit Wongsuwan, leader of the Palang Pracharath Party, slipped and fell on the stairs at Wat Pho, Bangkok. This incident occurred after he attended a royal prayer ceremony on 19th May. The scene stirred a commotion among onlookers as security personnel rushed to his aid. Contrary to initial reports of General Prawit sustaining injuries and needing hospitalisation, Police Lieutenant General Piya Tawichai, spokesperson for the Palang Pracharath Party, clarified that the general merely lost his footing slightly and was not harmed. He assured the public that General Prawit remains in good health and continues his duties as usual. Footage shows General Prawit descending the stairs, assisted by his team, before the slip occurs. Despite the fall, his aides quickly intervened to help him up, ensuring his safety. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Khaosod Thai edition 2025-05-21

Immigration Crackdown Nabs Turkish, Myanmar Vendors in Bangkok Picture courtesy of Khaosod In a recent crackdown by Immigration Division 1 officers in Bangkok, eight individuals were apprehended for illegally selling street food on the bustling Khao San Road. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361297-immigration-crackdown-nabs-turkish-myanmar-vendors-in-bangkok/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod In a recent crackdown by Immigration Division 1 officers in Bangkok, eight individuals were apprehended for illegally selling street food on the bustling Khao San Road. Among those detained was a Turkish national notable for his engaging style of selling Turkish ice cream, alongside seven Myanmar nationals. On 21st May 2025, under the direction of Lieutenant General Panumart Boonyalak, Commander of Immigration Bureau, and coordination with Chana Songkhram Police, the operation targeted illegal employment activities in key tourist areas. The focus was on vendors without proper work permits who risk crowding and safety in high-traffic zones. The investigation revealed foreign nationals, particularly on Ram Buttri and Khao San Roads, involved in selling goods like food, kebabs, ice cream, and fruit juices. Upon inspection, seven Myanmar nationals were caught lacking the required documentation. Four of these individuals did not possess passports, suspected to have entered Thailand unlawfully to work. The Turkish man, identified as 'Muhammad' (pseudonym), had only a tourist visa, lacking a valid work permit despite attracting tourists with his unique ice cream vending style. All eight individuals face charges for working illegally and are now under police custody for legal proceedings. Adapted by ASEAN Now from [source] 2025-05-21

Covid-19's XEC Variant Spreads Like Wildfire, Says Thai Health Ministry File photo courtesy of Photo: Xinhua/VNA The alarming spread of the XEC variant of Covid-19 has put the Public Health Ministry on high alert as the virus is reportedly spreading seven times faster than the common flu. A concerted effort led by Minister Somsak Thepsuthin aims to safeguard vulnerable groups, while also keeping a vigilant eye on its proliferation in schools throughout the nation. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361274-covid-19s-xec-variant-spreads-like-wildfire-says-thai-health-ministry/

Warning Issued: Even Indirect Defamation Remains Illegal Under Thai Law Picture courtesy of Human Rights Facebook Social media uproar! Lawyer James advises that using defamatory language, even without naming an individual, can still constitute defamation under Thai law. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361286-warning-issued-even-indirect-defamation-remains-illegal-under-thai-law/

Picture courtesy of Human Rights Facebook Social media uproar! Lawyer James advises that using defamatory language, even without naming an individual, can still constitute defamation under the law. On 21 May, 'Lawyer James' or Nitithorn Kaewto took to his personal Facebook page, "Lawyer James LK," to caution users. He highlighted a legal case where the term "prostitute" was deemed defamatory, explaining it referred to a woman engaged in the sex trade. He further elaborated that even without specifying details, such as who someone trades sex with, using such a term can be enough to categorise it as defamatory. By highlighting such instances, Lawyer James aims to raise awareness about the legal boundaries of speech on social media platforms, urging users to consider the impact of their words before posting. Lawyer James's insights serve as a timely reminder of the importance of responsible online communication, where casual or careless remarks might lead to serious legal repercussions. Thanks to: Lawyer James LK Adapted by ASEAN Now from Daily News 2025-05-21

Island Overload: 10,000 Flock to Koh Samui Every Day File photo for reference only Thailand's pristine island getaway, Koh Samui, is reeling under the weight of an overwhelming tourist invasion, with a staggering 10,000 visitors descending upon its shores each day. The rise in tourist numbers follows the tantalising release of HBO’s scenic hit, "White Lotus," filmed on the island, which has led to the spike dubbed as the 'White Lotus Effect'. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361280-island-overload-10000-flock-to-koh-samui-every-day/

File photo for reference only Thailand's pristine island getaway, Koh Samui, is reeling under the weight of an overwhelming tourist invasion, with a staggering 10,000 visitors descending upon its shores each day. The rise in tourist numbers follows the tantalising release of HBO’s scenic hit, "White Lotus," filmed on the island, which has led to the spike dubbed as the 'White Lotus Effect'. To manage the influx, Thailand has rolled out a Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) starting May 1, amidst mounting concerns over environmental sustainability and infrastructural strain. Koh Samui, spanning just 228.7 square kilometres, has experienced a 28% surge in foreign visitors compared to the previous year, transforming from a quaint fishing village into a high-end luxury destination. However, this popularity comes at a cost: escalating issues with pollution, waste management, and water scarcity are looming threats. Last year saw an aggressive uptick to 10,000 daily visitors, further squeezed onto the island after the filming of White Lotus’s third season at the illustrious Four Seasons hotel led to an 88% internet search surge and a 44% boost in hotel reservations. This tourism boom has not come without repercussions. Koh Samui's fragile ecosystem is sagging under the weight of increasing tourist demand, heightening concerns over waste and water resource management. Dr Kannapa Pongponrat Chieochan, a local expert, underscores the urgent need for dialogue between authorities and the community to sustainably manage the island's future. Infrastructure enhancements such as a cruise terminal by 2029, airport expansions, and additional water pipelines are in the pipeline, as are measures from the Marine and Coastal Resources Management Act of 2015. Despite these efforts, local sentiment leans toward stronger law enforcement and greater government backing for environmental initiatives. The island’s roadmap includes reducing plastic waste and promoting recycling, but experts stress these measures need clout through robust enforcement. As Koh Samui grapples with the mounting pressures of celebrity-fuelled tourism, it stands at a crossroad. Can it balance the influx with its ecological integrity, or will it become a cautionary tale of paradise lost? The developments on the island will be pivotal for its future sustainability and the broader narrative of responsible tourism in Thailand. Adapted by ASEAN Now from EXPRESS UK 2025-05-21

Covid-19's XEC Variant Spreads Like Wildfire, Says Thai Health Ministry File photo courtesy of Photo: Xinhua/VNA The alarming spread of the XEC variant of Covid-19 has put the Public Health Ministry on high alert as the virus is reportedly spreading seven times faster than the common flu. A concerted effort led by Minister Somsak Thepsuthin aims to safeguard vulnerable groups, while also keeping a vigilant eye on its proliferation in schools throughout the nation. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361274-covid-19s-xec-variant-spreads-like-wildfire-says-thai-health-ministry/

File photo courtesy of Photo: Xinhua/VNA The alarming spread of the XEC variant of Covid-19 has put Thailand's Public Health Ministry on high alert as the virus is reportedly spreading seven times faster than the common flu. A concerted effort led by Minister Somsak Thepsuthin aims to safeguard vulnerable groups, while also keeping a vigilant eye on its proliferation in schools throughout the nation. According to official figures, since January 1st, 108,891 cases of the XEC variant have been logged, resulting in 27 fatalities. The majority of the deaths, around 80%, have tragically been among senior citizens, highlighting the virus's dangerous impact on the elderly, classified under the "608 group." Despite the swift transmission, the strain, a descendant of Omicron, is noted for its relatively mild severity. However, its rapid spread raises significant concerns, especially with the variant having already impacted children as well. The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration has urged educational institutions to keep a watchful eye and manage potential clusters amongst pupils. Health expert Dr Teera Woratanarat from Chulalongkorn University underlines that this Covid-19 strain continues to be the foremost infectious disease, affecting individuals across all ages, including young children, teenagers, and those in the working-age bracket. In just a week, Covid-19 hospital admissions saw a 35.5% jump, numbering 43,213 both for in-patients and outpatients. Three fresh fatalities were recently reported in Kanchanaburi, Sukhothai, and Bangkok Noi, underscoring the persistent threat posed by this highly transmissible variant. The country remains in its 21st week of applying disease control measures to mitigate further spread and protect at-risk populations. The Thai authorities maintain vigilance, focusing resources on shielding the most vulnerable while the quick spread of the virus prompts continuous review and adaptation of health protocols. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-05-21

Premchai Hospitalised Due to Breathing Issues and Illness Picture courtesy of Siam Rath Premchai Karnasuta, a key figure embroiled in the controversial state audit office construction collapse case, has been hospitalised following respiratory complications and the exacerbation of longstanding ailments. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361269-premchai-hospitalised-due-to-breathing-issues-and-illness/