webfact

Picture courtesy: Daily News Thai authorities have apprehended a woman involved in smuggling 206 grams of cocaine into Thailand from the United Kingdom. The arrest took place in Bang Lamung, Chonburi, with the drugs hidden within international mail parcels. The Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB), alongside Naval Intelligence and the First Naval Area Command, conducted the operation. The investigation began on 6th January, as part of the Airport Interdiction Task Force’s efforts, leading them to a parcel from the UK containing 104 grams of cocaine addressed to a British male resident in Bang Lamung. Upon further investigation, on 8th January, the authorities confronted a Thai woman who attempted to collect the package. During questioning, she admitted being hired by the British man to retrieve the parcel. Subsequently, on 9th January, officers seized another parcel containing 102 grams of cocaine, similarly originating from the UK and addressed to the same recipient. The ONCB is compiling evidence to issue a warrant for the British national involved. Picture courtesy: Daily News These arrests highlight an ongoing trend at Thai airports, with five smuggling incidents in 2023 alone, involving a total of 512 grams of cocaine from the UK, disguised within various products such as protein powder cans and deodorant. It underscores the critical role of vigilant international cooperation and the resolve of Thai officials to curb drug trafficking effectively, reported Daily News. Picture courtesy: Daily News -- 2025-01-11

Pattaya Left Behind in Thailand's 'Premium' Tourism Upgrade Strategy File photo ANALYSIS In a move causing a stir among the tourism community, Thailand's Prime Minister recently unveiled plans to elevate Phuket to "premium" tourist status, seemingly leaving Pattaya in the shadows. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348532-pattaya-left-behind-in-thailands-premium-tourism-upgrade-strategy/

File photo ANALYSIS In a move causing a stir among the tourism community, Thailand's Prime Minister recently unveiled plans to elevate Phuket to "premium" tourist status, seemingly leaving Pattaya in the shadows. This decision positions Phuket as a primary international hub, celebrated for hosting significant tourist events and benefiting from substantial private sector investment. This strategic push is aimed at capitalising on the thousands of tourists flocking directly to Phuket and bolstering its appeal through projects tackling urban challenges like traffic congestion, waste management, and organised crime, writes Barry Kenyon for Pattaya Mail Instructions have been issued to local Phuket authorities to initiate innovative solutions for these urban issues, like community-led recycling efforts and promoting sustainable tourism. The president of the Phuket Tourism Association has joyfully embraced this designation, seeing it as a pathway to enhanced global attractiveness and economic growth. However, Pattaya, a long-standing competitor to Phuket in the tourism sector, finds itself conspicuously missing from this "premium" narrative despite boasting many similar attributes. The term "premium," often thrown around in tourism circuits, lacks formal definition and has been criticised for its ambiguity. This isn't the first time the label has caused a fuss. Back in 2018, Pattaya had its moment of triumph when Democrat Party deputy leader Korn Chatikavanij expressed a vision for the city to become a "premium" resort destination—albeit to rally support for the party's local election candidates. Pattaya's exclusion from the new "premium" label should perhaps be taken with a pinch of salt. The city can effortlessly hold its own against Phuket, both in terms of tourist draw, bustling events, and tackling the same urban issues concerning traffic and waste. The notion of "premium" tourism has faced scrutiny from figures like former Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, who urged a move away from low-cost tourism to lure in higher-spending visitors. In light of this, Pattaya's stakeholders might find solace in ignoring labels and continuing to focus on the tangible qualities that have established the city as a staple on Thailand's tourist map. Perhaps it's time to retire the vague "premium" tag to the realms of marketing, alongside ice cream promotions and exclusive visa privileges. Pattaya remains a vibrant, competitive destination, with or without the label, offering a unique blend of attractions capable of captivating a global audience. -- 2025-01-11

FILE - Tributes from supporters rest at a memorial under a portrait of team owner Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha outside Leicester City Football Club, Monday Oct. 29 2018, in Leicester, England. . (AP Photo/Rui Vieira, File) The family of Leicester City owner Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha, who tragically perished in a helicopter crash in 2018, has launched a £2.15 billion (approximately 94.4 billion Thai Baht) lawsuit against Italian helicopter manufacturer Leonardo SpA. The lawsuit, one of the largest fatal accident claims in British history, claims significant compensation for alleged loss of earnings and damages, asserting that a critical design flaw led to the fatal accident. Vichai, at 60, had been a pivotal figure in the football world, purchasing Leicester City Football Club in 2010 and spearheading its historic Premier League victory in 2016. His legacy also extends to his successful business empire, King Power, which transformed the duty-free shopping scene in Thailand. The catastrophic accident that took Vichai’s life occurred on October 27, 2018, just outside King Power Stadium in Leicester, following a match. Among the five victims were pilot Eric Swaffer, his partner Izabela Roza Lechowicz, and Vichai’s staff members Nusara Suknamai and Kaveporn Punpare. A detailed investigation by the United Kingdom's Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) in 2023 highlighted a tail rotor failure of the Leonardo AW169 helicopter as the cause of the crash. This report disclosed that the pilot faced insurmountable challenges in regaining control due to this failure. Despite the AAIB’s confirmation that the helicopter met all regulatory standards, the report pinpointed a seized component in the tail rotor, identified by Leonardo as critical in the design phase, as the trigger for the devastating accident. Picture courtesy: Daily Mail Contradicting Leonardo's assurances regarding the helicopter's safety, the Srivaddhanaprabha family's legal action argues for the liability of the manufacturer. The family claims Leonardo neglected to integrate a crucial design modification, which had been implemented in other helicopter models, potentially preventing the disastrous outcome. Additionally, they allege that Leonardo failed to appropriately warn their customers or regulatory authorities about the significant risks involved. In a statement, Vichai’s son, Aiyawatt Srivaddhanaprabha, who succeeded his father in leading both Leicester City and King Power, expressed his disillusionment, articulating that his father’s trust in Leonardo had been tragically misplaced. This legal démarche is regarded as a critical step for ensuring accountability and enhancing safety for other operators reliant on Leonardo's helicopters. British aviation law experts from Stewarts are representing the family, alongside renowned barristers Philip Shepherd KC and Harry Steinberg KC. Stewarts partner Peter Neenan emphasised the broader implications of the case, underscoring the necessity for confidence among global operators of these helicopters, which serve crucial roles, including for military and emergency services, reported Dail News Online, Bangkok Post, Agencies. -- 2025-01-11

Leicester City's Thai Owners Seek £2.15B from Helicopter Makers Over 2018 Crash FILE - Tributes from supporters rest at a memorial under a portrait of team owner Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha outside Leicester City Football Club, Monday Oct. 29 2018, in Leicester, England. . (AP Photo/Rui Vieira, File) The family of Leicester City owner Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha, who tragically perished in a helicopter crash in 2018, has launched a £2.15 billion (approximately 94.4 billion Thai Baht) lawsuit against Italian helicopter manufacturer Leonardo SpA. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348522-leicester-citys-thai-owners-seek-£215b-from-helicopter-makers-over-2018-crash/

Thaksin Attends Wedding of Pheu Thai MP, Meets Pita But Avoids Political Discussion Picture courtesy: Siam Rath In a notable social interaction, former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra and ex-Move Forward leader Pita Limjaroenrat were present at a wedding ceremony of two Members of Parliament, marking a significant occurrence in Thailand's political circles. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348529-thaksin-attends-wedding-of-pheu-thai-mp-meets-pita-but-avoids-political-discussion/

Picture courtesy: Siam Rath In a notable social interaction, former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra and ex-Move Forward leader Pita Limjaroenrat were present at a wedding ceremony of two Members of Parliament, marking a significant occurrence in Thailand's political circles. This gathering unfolded at the Asawin Grand Convention Hotel in Bangkok's Lak Si district on January 10th. Picture courtesy: Amarin TV The celebration united Mr. Thanathorn Lohsoonthorn, a Pheu Thai MP from Lampang Constituency 2, with Ms. Rapassorn Niyamosatha, an MP from the People’s Party for Lampang Constituency 4. The groom, Mr. Thanathorn, follows the footsteps of his father, Mr. Pairoj Lohsoonthorn, also a former MP from the same province, perpetuating the family’s political heritage. At this occasion, Pita, now serving as an advisor to Progressive Movement’s chairman Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit, took the opportunity to greet Thaksin. The exchange provided Thaksin, the influential Pheu Thai figure, an avenue to reflect on his lengthy self-imposed exile of 17 years. He expressed a strong desire to return and positively contribute to resolving Thailand's challenges. During their conversation, Pita offered Thaksin thoughtful advice on maintaining his health, indicating a respectful rapport between these key political personalities. Thaksin's comments underscored his unwavering influence and dedication to Thailand, despite the years spent away from the political forefront. Throughout the event, Thaksin also conversed with Ms. Pannika Wanich, a prominent member of the Progressive Movement. He noted her resemblance to his daughter, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, highlighting the interconnections among Thailand's political spheres. Picture courtesy: Amarin TV Addressing the wedding attendees, Thaksin shared thoughts that went beyond the immediate celebration, hinting at broader political collaboration. Drawing a parallel between the matrimonial union of MPs from different parties and potential political partnerships, he remarked, "As MPs from different parties can get married, so too might different parties collaborate politically," suggesting a hopeful vision for national unity amid rapidly changing times. The wedding, enriched with Thaksin's well wishes for the couple, subtly reminded all present of the potential for political cooperation in Thailand's dynamic landscape. Through his words of blessing, Thaksin echoed aspirations for enhanced harmony and development across the country, reported Thai Newsroom. -- 2025-01-11

Thailand Halts Plastic Waste Imports, Aims to Curb Pollution Crisis File photo for reference only Thailand has taken a landmark step in battling toxic pollution by implementing a ban on the import of plastic waste from January 1. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348506-thailand-halts-plastic-waste-imports-aims-to-curb-pollution-crisis/

Tourism stocks tumble amid Chinese tourist fears By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Thai tourism stocks took a hit this morning as concerns mounted over a potential decline in Chinese tourist arrivals during the Chinese New Year. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348489-tourism-stocks-tumble-amid-chinese-tourist-fears/

Minister launches emergency plan as deadly dust chokes Thailand By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of NIDA Thailand Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsuthin issued an urgent response to soaring PM 2.5 air pollution levels, which have breached safety thresholds in 14 provinces, threatening public health. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348485-minister-launches-emergency-plan-as-deadly-dust-chokes-thailand/

to continue: Thailand Live Saturday 11 January 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1348491-thailand-live-saturday-11-january-2025/

Photo via Facebook/ เจ๊มอย v+ Thai woman defends drunk foreign boyfriend in Pattaya crash By Petch Petpailin A drunk foreign man crashed his sedan into a som tam vendor in Pattaya in the early hours of Frisay. However, the foreigner’s Thai girlfriend refused to accept the blame, accusing the victim of faking his injuries, and having connections with a top police chief. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348484-thai-woman-defends-drunk-foreign-boyfriend-in-pattaya-crash/

Thailand's 'Dual Prime Minister' System: A Delicate Balance of Power Thailand's former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, left, with, his daughter Paetongtarn | Photo via AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit ANALYSIS Thailand's political sphere is witnessing a unique evolution with what observers are calling a 'dual prime minister' system, a strategic alignment between Thaksin Shinawatra and his daughter, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348437-thailands-dual-prime-minister-system-a-delicate-balance-of-power/

Thailand's former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, left, with, his daughter Paetongtarn | Photo via AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit ANALYSIS In Thailand's evolving political landscape, the dual prime minister system, led by Thaksin Shinawatra and his daughter Paetongtarn, has become a notable trend. This arrangement reflects a carefully orchestrated strategy where Thaksin remains the mastermind behind the scenes, while Paetongtarn assumes the official role of prime minister, executing policies and managing the government. This system isn’t accidental. Thaksin, who has been involved in Thai politics for decades, learned valuable lessons from his past experiences. One key lesson came during the tenure of Samak Sundaravej, who served as prime minister after Thaksin's People Power Party won the 2007 election. Thaksin struggled to exert control over Samak, which ultimately led to the rise of the "Gang of Four" and the replacement of Samak with his brother-in-law, Somchai Wongsawat, as prime minister. The pattern continues under the current leadership of Srettha Thavisin, where while outwardly there’s harmony between Thaksin and Srettha, internal friction has surfaced. Thaksin, now on parole, has made public appearances and offered political advice, leading some to speculate that there’s tension between the two. But within the framework of the "dual prime minister" model, Thaksin and Paetongtarn's collaboration has been smooth, with each knowing their place—Thaksin orchestrates, Paetongtarn executes. In this model, Paetongtarn steps into the role of the prime minister without directly competing with her father. Instead, she embraces his vision, and the father-daughter partnership allows them to complement each other's strengths. Paetongtarn does not see her father as a rival but as a guiding figure, which helps maintain a unified political front. For example, in December, Thaksin publicly criticized coalition parties for skipping Cabinet meetings, a move that raised eyebrows and led to speculation about him trying to remove key figures from the coalition. However, Paetongtarn quickly stepped in to calm the situation, assuring the public that all parties were working together in harmony. This public dynamic often hides the complex behind-the-scenes workings of their partnership. Insiders suggest that Paetongtarn played a key role in informing Thaksin about the absenteeism, prompting his strong remarks. This situation underscores the importance of their coordinated efforts—Paetongtarn is able to moderate Thaksin’s more confrontational tendencies, ensuring stability within the coalition. While some critics question who the "real" prime minister is, Thaksin and Paetongtarn’s seamless coordination shows that their roles are clearly defined. Paetongtarn has consistently praised her father, affirming her loyalty to his vision for the country. In return, Thaksin has expressed confidence in Paetongtarn's ability to lead the country and revive the economy by late 2025, as long as the groundwork for recovery is laid out. The "dual prime minister" system plays to their strengths. Thaksin handles the more combative aspects of politics, confronting opponents head-on, while Paetongtarn focuses on maintaining the legal and political structure. This division of labor allows them to tackle political adversaries effectively, with Thaksin often shielding his daughter from direct confrontation, preserving her image in the public eye. Despite the advantages, the arrangement comes with risks. Both must be cautious to avoid creating vulnerabilities in their joint strategy. Missteps in this delicate balance could undermine their political position. But as long as they maintain their coordinated approach, the dual leadership model can be a powerful force in steering the country through turbulent political waters, reported The Nation. -- 2025-01-10

Photo courtesy of Madam Pang Facebook by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Madam Pang, a fifth-generation heiress from Thailand’s billionaire Lamsam family, has transformed Thai football with her passion, leadership, and jaw-dropping generosity. Born Nualphan Lamsam, the 58 year old business mogul comes from one of Thailand’s wealthiest families, with an estimated net worth of US$890 million (approximately 30.82 billion baht). As CEO of Mueang Thai Insurance and a pioneer in introducing luxury brands like Hermès to Thailand, Madam Pang has seamlessly blended business acumen with a love for sport. The Lamsam family, ranked 37th richest in Thailand by Forbes, controls financial giants like KBank and Mueang Thai Life Assurance. Beyond her corporate success, Madam Pang’s devotion to football has earned her legendary status. Under her leadership, Thailand’s women’s football team competed in the 2015 and 2019 World Cups, while the men’s team clinched consecutive ASEAN Cup titles in 2020 and 2022. To celebrate their 2022 triumph, she rewarded the players with 26 million baht. Photo courtesy of @panglamsam Instagram via VN Express Her dedication knows no bounds. During the 2023 World Cup qualifiers, Madam Pang pledged 1 million baht per point earned in the second round. As president of Thai football club Port FC, she propelled the team to prominence in the Thai League, organising bonding events where players won extravagant prizes, including Rolex watches, iPhones, and designer handbags, reported VN Express. In February last year, she shattered glass ceilings by becoming the first woman elected as president of the Football Association of Thailand. “Football is the people’s sport, and it is the hope of the entire Thai population.” Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-10

Phuket's Transformation: Becoming Thailand's Premium Tourist Hub Phuket Old Town. File photo In a decisive move to elevate Phuket's status, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has announced strategic plans to develop the island province into a premier tourist destination. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348433-phukets-transformation-becoming-thailands-premium-tourist-hub/

Phuket Old Town. File photo In a decisive move to elevate Phuket's status, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has announced strategic plans to develop the island province into a premier tourist destination. During a recent visit to the southern paradise, key discussions centred around combating ongoing challenges such as traffic congestion, flood management, and infrastructure enhancement. Phuket, attracting almost a quarter of Thailand's international visitors, often serves as their primary entry into the country, bypassing Bangkok altogether. Recognising this, Prime Minister Paetongtarn emphasised the government's commitment to refining Phuket’s allure and encouraging higher tourist expenditure by transforming it into a luxury destination. The prime minister highlighted Phuket's potential not only as a leisure hotspot but also as a venue for major international festivals, enhancing its global appeal. "Phuket is already famous among travellers. The aim is to polish this gem, increasing visitor spending and facilitating grand festivals," she remarked. Tackling the island's notorious traffic woes is fundamental to this vision. Plans include new road constructions from Bang Muang Mai to the airport, expanding Highway No. 4027, and exploring an elevated road project at key highway intersections. Additionally, a study concerning the Sarasin Bridge's expansion is underway, promising smoother connectivity. Addressing safety and local governance, Paetongtarn called for stringent measures against criminal activities and influential figures overshadowing the island's reputation. The persistent garbage disposal problem must also be managed effectively, with encouragements for community-based recycling initiatives. The private sector sees promise in these governmental steps. Thaneth Tantipiriyakij, at the helm of the Phuket Tourist Association, expressed support for the comprehensive development plan. He noted the necessity of government funding to propel infrastructure projects and promote sustainable tourism practices. Thaneth stressed the significance of tourism as a vital component powering Thailand's economy, with Phuket standing out as a crowning jewel in tourism terms. The prime minister's visit has sparked promising dialogue between the public and private sectors, paving the way for proposals that could shape Phuket's future. Highlighting the island's robust tourism economy, government spokesman Jirayu Houngsub disclosed that during the festive period from December 28 to January 1, over 230,000 visitors graced Phuket, infusing more than 8 billion Thai Baht into the local economy. This surge resulted in an impressive hotel occupancy rate exceeding 80%, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-01-10

Woman's Motorbike Stolen Before First Payment After 4 Years of Saving Picture courtesy: Daily News NONTHABURI - A laundry maid's hard-earned motorbike was stolen just before the first loan instalment was due. Ms. Wilaiwan, who works at a launderette and sells street food in the evenings, had diligently saved for four years to pay a 14,000 baht deposit for the motorbike, needed to take her child to school and commute to work. Full. story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348432-womans-motorbike-stolen-before-first-payment-after-4-years-of-saving/

Picture courtesy: Daily News NONTHABURI - A laundry maid's hard-earned motorbike was stolen just before the first loan instalment was due. Ms. Wilaiwan, who works at a launderette and sells street food in the evenings, had diligently saved for four years to pay a 14,000 baht deposit for the motorbike, needed to take her child to school and commute to work. The theft occurred in the early hours of 9th January, as captured by CCTV. The footage showed a suspect, dressed in black and wearing a helmet, tampering with the locked motorbike outside her home in Nonthaburi. In under two minutes, the thief managed to break the lock and make off with the vehicle. It’s believed that at least two perpetrators were involved. Ms. Wilaiwan expressed her distress, having planned to make the first instalment payment that day. The bike, a blue and black Honda Wave, had been in her possession for barely a month. Despite the CCTV evidence, the culprits remain at large. She appealed to the local police for swift action, keen to retrieve the motorbike vital for her family's livelihood, reported Daily News. Picture courtesy: Daily News -- 2025-01-10

Chinese Model Mysteriously Disappears at Thai-Myanmar Border In a scenario reminiscent of another recent high-profile case, Yang Zeqi, a Chinese model, has gone missing at the Thai-Myanmar border. The case follows the disappearance of actor Xingxing, which involved similar circumstances. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348431-chinese-model-mysteriously-disappears-at-thai-myanmar-border/

Picture courtesy: Thai Rath In a scenario reminiscent of another recent high-profile case, Yang Zeqi, a Chinese model, has gone missing at the Thai-Myanmar border. The case follows the disappearance of actor Xingxing, which involved similar circumstances. Yang's family has been actively seeking assistance through social media platforms like Weibo after losing contact with him during a film project in Thailand. Yang disappeared on 20th December 2024, at around 2 PM Beijing time, after departing from Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok. The timeline reveals that Yang received a WeChat message on 8th December 2024, confirming his selection for a film audition. He arranged his own passport and travel to Thailand. Yang's final known movements were tracked through a map application screenshot showing a location near the Thai-Myanmar border, and he sent a message to a friend expressing sadness on 21st December. A brief video call on 29th December showed Yang sitting in a chair, appearing with a visible injury near his eye, before losing contact again. The call's abrupt ending and Yang's condition have prompted his family to raise the alarm. Family members have reported the case to the Chinese police and reached out to the Chinese embassies in both Thailand and Myanmar for assistance. They have also sought advice from the family of Xingxing, whose disappearance attracted significant public attention and was resolved swiftly. Yang's relatives are urging influential bloggers and media in China to spotlight the case to garner the same level of public attention as Xingxing’s, in hopes of a swift resolution. The striking similarities between these cases have heightened concerns about the safety of Chinese nationals in the region, reported Siam Rath. -- 2025-01-10

Chinese Fraudsters Rob Fellow Citizens of 13M Baht in Bangkok Crypto Scam The victim files a complaint at Huai Khwang police station. Photo: Amarin TV In a bold and audacious heist reminiscent of a thriller, three Chinese nationals were left reeling after being defrauded of a whopping 13 million Baht in a cryptocurrency exchange scam in Bangkok. The incidents, which appear intricately planned, unfolded on Thursday as the victims attempted legitimate currency-for-crypto exchanges. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348417-chinese-fraudsters-rob-fellow-citizens-of-13m-baht-in-bangkok-crypto-scam/

The victim files a complaint at Huai Khwang police station. Photo: Amarin TV In a bold and audacious heist reminiscent of a thriller, three Chinese nationals were left reeling after being defrauded of a whopping 13 million Baht in a cryptocurrency exchange scam in Bangkok. The incidents, which appear intricately planned, unfolded on Thursday as the victims attempted legitimate currency-for-crypto exchanges. The first incident took place in Huai Khwang district, at a house on Pracharat Bampen 12 Road, around 3:30 p.m. According to Pol Col Prasopchok Iampinit, the head of the Huai Khwang police station, a Chinese man named Huang Guang was duped by three fellow countrymen. Huang reported that his bag, loaded with 5 million Baht, was snatched during what was supposed to be a straightforward cash-for-crypto swap. As the criminals fled in a Toyota Alphard van, Huang made a valiant attempt to pursue them using a local motorcycle taxi, but his efforts were in vain. The investigation revealed that the van belonged to Zhenkun Cai, who resided on Yenjit Road in the Sathon district. In a significant breakthrough, the police managed to recover the stolen 5 million Baht from his residence. In a parallel plot that occurred almost simultaneously, two other Chinese victims were embroiled in a similar fraudulent scheme at the G Tower building in the bustling Phraram 9 area. The duo carried 8 million Baht in cash to exchange for cryptocurrency with a group of four compatriots. In these transactions, a middleman had been introduced, ostensibly to facilitate the exchange. However, the meeting turned sour when the group of four, under a thin veneer of legitimacy, seized the cash claiming they had transferred cryptocurrency to the middleman. Confusion and disbelief ensued as the middleman denied receiving any digital currency, leading the cheated parties to file their complaints at the Huai Khwang police station. The episodes highlight a growing trend of deception involving cryptocurrencies, a space rife with both potential and pitfalls. While blockchain-based currencies promise anonymity and speed, they also attract those with nefarious intentions, exploiting legal and technical grey areas. Authorities have urged vigilance while dealing with such transactions and stressed the importance of using trusted and verified exchange platforms. Meanwhile, investigations continue into these brazen thefts, as police collect evidence and track down the culprits involved, reported Amarin TV.. -- 2025-01-10

Macau's Melco Expands in Thailand Amid Tourism Boom File photo: Macao Studio City. Courtesy Wikipedia Melco Resorts & Entertainment, a prominent casino operator from Macau, has set its sights on Thailand's thriving tourism industry with the opening of a new office in the vibrant city of Bangkok. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348422-macaus-melco-expands-in-thailand-amid-tourism-boom/

File photo: Macao Studio City. Courtesy Wikipedia Melco Resorts & Entertainment, a prominent casino operator from Macau, has set its sights on Thailand's thriving tourism industry with the opening of a new office in the vibrant city of Bangkok. This strategic move is a clear indication of Melco's ambition to dive into the lucrative market of entertainment and hospitality within Thailand, provided that gambling regulations shift towards legalisation. Lawrence Ho, the chairman and chief executive at Melco, expressed his enthusiasm about Thailand's strong potential as a premier destination for integrated resorts. Known for its rich cultural heritage and renowned hospitality, Thailand offers an enticing canvas for future projects. An anticipated draw is the latest season of HBO's "The White Lotus," filmed in Thailand, expected to further enhance the country's global tourism profile. During a recent event organised by the Thailand Creative Culture Agency (THACCA), Ho elaborated on Melco’s commitment to seeking out collaborative opportunities within Thailand. The newly established Bangkok office will lead these efforts, aligning with the company’s broader strategy. However, clarity on the governmental framework regarding entertainment complexes inclusive of casinos remains a pivotal factor in determining the scale of Melco's potential investments. Key urban areas like Bangkok and Phuket have been identified as promising locations for new developments. A Thai government committee is evaluating options for casino complexes, with outcomes to be proposed to the cabinet, marking significant progress towards legalised gambling in the country. Currently, Melco operates six integrated resorts across Macau, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, and Cyprus, attracting 21 million visitors last year. Ho points out that visitors typically stay 30% longer and spend three to four times more at Melco resorts compared to competitors, thanks to their superior entertainment and cultural experience offerings. In conjunction with its Thai expansion, Melco is joining hands with THACCA to launch "Global Soft Power Talks," featuring on NBT TV on February 24. This forum will bring globally renowned experts from sectors such as culinary arts, design, architecture, and performing arts to Thailand. Esteemed personalities, including Michelin-starred chef Alain Ducasse and designer Mathieu Lehanneur, are set to partake. In addition to business objectives, Melco's commitment extends to local talent development. Collaboration efforts include a training programme offering selected Thai students immersive learning opportunities with international experts in locations like the US, UK, Italy, France, and Macau. Surapong Suebwonglee, chairman of the National Soft Power Development Committee, emphasises the vast potential of Thai soft power, advocating for collaboration with global experts and targeting the reskilling and upskilling of over 20 million Thais by 2027, especially in culinary and Muay Thai sectors, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-01-10