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Thailand Post to Hike Fees Again as Costs Rise File photo Thailand Post, the nation's leading postal service provider, has announced its decision to implement a second increase in postage fees in less than two years. This change, which comes amid rising operational costs, is set to affect a wide array of postal services. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348094-thailand-post-to-hike-fees-again-as-costs-rise/

File photo Thailand Post, the nation's leading postal service provider, has announced its decision to implement a second increase in postage fees in less than two years. This change, which comes amid rising operational costs, is set to affect a wide array of postal services. Just last year, for the first time in nearly two decades, Thailand Post raised its service charges. Now, facing continued financial pressures, the organisation finds itself raising fees once more. These adjustments will impact a variety of services including envelope letters, packaged letters, registered envelope letters, printed goods, postcards, and parcels. Primarily driven by escalating fuel prices and increased wage demands, these fee hikes are part of Thailand Post's efforts to maintain financial sustainability while continuing to offer reliable service. The cost adjustments are carefully calibrated to reflect the changing economic landscape without compromising service quality. For customers regularly sending items within Thailand or internationally, these increases could mean a notable difference in expenses. For example, the cost of posting a standard letter within Thailand will see a modest rise, with charges for regular parcels seeing a more significant adjustment. To soften the blow of these new costs, Thailand Post is encouraging customers to consider its Eco Post service. This service offers a budget-friendly alternative to registered mail, providing similar tracking capabilities at a reduced price. Eco Post has been well-received by regular and business clients alike for its efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Converting these new rates into Thai Baht: where previously a simple parcel might have cost around 32 THB, customers may now expect to pay closer to 35 THB, depending on size and destination. International rates are subject to varying increases based on destination and weight, reflecting the additional costs of cross-border logistics. Despite these changes, Thailand Post remains dedicated to offering comprehensive postal solutions across the nation. The organisation continues to adapt to both local and global economic pressures, investing in technology and service improvements to streamline operations and enhance customer satisfaction. This measure, though essential from an operational standpoint, is likely to draw mixed reactions from the public. Frequent postal users might need to adjust their budgeting strategies, while businesses that rely heavily on postal services may explore alternative delivery methods or partners. As Thailand Post navigates these challenges, it assures customers of its commitment to transparency and timely service delivery, emphasising that these adjustments are critical for maintaining the integrity and future of postal services in the country. The company is anticipated to release further details on the specific fee changes in the coming weeks, providing ample time for customers to prepare for these new rates, reported The Nation. -- 2025-01-07

Chinese Actor Vanishes Near Thai-Myanmar Border After Being Tricked Picture courtesy: Naewna A Chinese actor, Xingxing, has mysteriously vanished after being lured to Thailand under the guise of a film shoot, sparking concern and calls for intervention. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348075-chinese-actor-vanishes-near-thai-myanmar-border/

Ruble trouble: Russian tourist robbed and roughed up in Phuket By Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ Phuket Times ภูเก็ตไทม์ A Russian man is seeking justice after a fellow countryman physically assaulted him and stole approximately US$5,000 (nearly 200,000 baht) from him at a hotel in Phuket. The theft reportedly had ties to the victim’s rival. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348064-ruble-trouble-russian-tourist-robbed-and-roughed-up-in-phuket/

Drunk tourist clashes with Phuket bikers over massage ride By Petch Petpailin Photo via Channel 8 A drunken tourist attacked three Thai app-based motorcycle taxi riders in Phuket, allegedly because he wanted a lift to a massage parlour. However, the riders declined to serve him, citing that they were fully booked. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348055-drunk-tourist-clashes-with-phuket-bikers-over-massage-ride/

to continue: Thailand Live Tuesday 7 January 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1348070-thailand-live-tuesday-7-january-2025/

DDPM Reports on Road Safety During 2024 New Year Festival Campaign The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) has summarised the outcomes of its efforts to prevent and reduce road crashes during the 2024 New Year holiday. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348037-ddpm-reports-on-road-safety-during-2024-new-year-festival-campaign/

Chinese Actor Vanishes Near Thai-Myanmar Border After Being Tricked Picture courtesy: Naewna A Chinese actor, Xingxing, has mysteriously vanished after being lured to Thailand under the guise of a film shoot, sparking concern and calls for intervention. The actor, whose real name is Wang Xing, was last heard from by his girlfriend in the border town of Mae Sot, Thailand, an area notorious for illegal activities including internet fraud and human trafficking. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348075-chinese-actor-vanishes-near-thai-myanmar-border/

Picture courtesy: Naewna A Chinese actor, Xingxing, has mysteriously vanished after being lured to Thailand under the guise of a film shoot, sparking concern and calls for intervention. The actor, whose real name is Wang Xing, was last heard from by his girlfriend in the border town of Mae Sot, Thailand, an area notorious for illegal activities including internet fraud and human trafficking. The disturbing sequence began when Xingxing received what appeared to be a legitimate casting call via a group chat of actors. After successfully auditioning and coordinating details with a supposed production manager on WeChat, he made his way to Thailand, leaving Shanghai on the afternoon of January 3, reported Naewna newspaper Global Times. His journey took him from Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok to the town of Mae Sot, situated at the border with Myanmar, facilitated by a vehicle arranged by the purported coordinator. His girlfriend, known on Chinese social media as Jiajia, maintained contact with him until noon Beijing time on the same day (11 a.m. local time in Thailand). She was perplexed to discover through their communications that he was headed towards the Thai province of Tak. Concern turned to alarm when communication ceased altogether. In desperation, Jiajia sought assistance from the Shanghai Public Security Bureau and the Chinese Embassy in Thailand. The Chinese Consulate General in Chiang Mai confirmed receiving an appeal from Xingxing's family on January 3, shortly after his disappearance was noticed. Their involvement highlights the severity of the situation, as Mae Sot is perilously close to Myanmar's town of Myawaddy, a notorious hotspot for nefarious cross-border activities. A representative from the consulate assured that they are actively addressing the situation, offering guidance on handling procedures and maintaining ongoing communication with Xingxing's family. “We are committed to following up on the case in line with relevant regulations, to safeguard the safety and legal rights of Chinese citizens under our jurisdiction,” stated the consular staff. Jiajia, having arrived in Thailand herself, is now taking further steps by seeking assistance directly from the Chinese embassy in Bangkok. Her resolve remains steadfast as she annals plans to engage Thai authorities in hopes of tracing Xingxing’s whereabouts. As the story unfolds, the incident underscores the vulnerability actors face from deceptive schemes in the digital age. Xingxing's disappearance is a chilling reminder of these perils, highlighting the urgent need for awareness and precaution within global artistic circles. This haunting mystery envelops not just those in the entertainment industry but concerns anyone susceptible to such fraudulent enticements, reported Thai Newsroom . -- 2025-01-06

Terrifying Moment! Parents and Children Inches from Death Under Elephant’s Belly In a nerve-wracking incident, parents taking children through an elephant's legs as part of a ritual for good fortune narrowly avoided tragedy when the elephant became agitated and unpredictable. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348011-terrifying-moment-parents-and-children-inches-from-death-under-elephant’s-belly/

Picture courtesy: Daily News via Facebook " Pom Aum Mobile " In a nerve-wracking incident, parents taking children through an elephant's legs as part of a ritual for good fortune narrowly avoided tragedy when the elephant became agitated and unpredictable. The incident, captured by CCTV and later posted on Facebook by user "Pom Aummobile", aims to serve as a cautionary tale. The footage shows an elephant handler leading children under the elephant's belly – a cultural tradition believed to bring luck and safety. Picture courtesy: Daily News via Facebook " Pom Aum Mobile " However, the situation took a dangerous turn as the elephant unexpectedly panicked. The handler carrying the first child was viciously kicked, narrowly escaping being trampled. The Facebook post, dated 6th January, emphasised the need for awareness around such practices: "This is not to disrespect beliefs, but to show how a belief nearly cost lives. Watch this close-call moment where a child's life was at risk. The elephant kicked with such force, it was a terrifying split-second!" Following the video’s release, social media users overwhelmingly expressed concern over the dangers associated with this practice. Many noted the irresponsibility of subjecting children to such risks, pointing out that instead of bringing safety and fortune, the ritual could lead to disaster. Fortunately, the on-elephant handler managed to calm the animal just in time, preventing any fatalities. -- 2025-01-06

Police fatally shoot patient wielding axe at Surin Hospital by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Amarin TV A tragic incident unfolded at Surin Hospital where a 27 year old patient, recovering from surgery, was shot and killed by police after brandishing a weapon. Local police reported the unfortunate event took place within a patient ward on the hospital’s fourth floor. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348007-police-fatally-shoot-patient-wielding-axe-at-surin-hospital/

Picture courtesy of Amarin TV by Bright Choomanee A tragic incident unfolded at Surin Hospital where a 27 year old patient, recovering from surgery, was shot and killed by police after brandishing a weapon. Local police reported the unfortunate event took place within a patient ward on the hospital’s fourth floor. The patient, identified only as Apichai, had recently undergone an appendectomy. During his recovery, he inexplicably armed himself with a firefighter’s axe and began chasing medical staff and other patients, causing panic and chaos. Police were summoned to the scene, and two patrol officers arrived to manage the situation. Despite commands to disarm, Apichai advanced towards the officers with the axe, leading to the officers opening fire. Unfortunately, the young man later died from his injuries. Police chief Weerapan na Lampang of the Mueang Surin station has initiated an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting. He assured that the inquiry would be conducted with impartiality and fairness to all involved, reported Bangkok Post. Additionally, a formal complaint has been registered, prompting a criminal investigation into the actions of the patrol officers on site. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-06

Thai Poll Predicts Ongoing Political Uncertainty in 2025 Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra reads the policy statement at parliament in Bangkok, Thailand, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Paetongtarn appeared Parliament for the first time to lay out how her government envisions to improve the country. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) A recent survey by Thailand's National Institute of Development Administration (NIDA) reveals growing concerns amongst Thai citizens about the political and economic landscape in 2025. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348004-thai-poll-predicts-ongoing-political-uncertainty-in-2025/

Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra reads the policy statement at parliament in Bangkok, Thailand, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Paetongtarn appeared Parliament for the first time to lay out how her government envisions to improve the country. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) A recent survey by Thailand's National Institute of Development Administration (NIDA) reveals growing concerns amongst Thai citizens about the political and economic landscape in 2025. Conducted amongst 1,310 individuals from various professions and educational backgrounds over three days in December, the poll paints a picture of a nation anticipating a turbulent year ahead. Politics appears to be a major point of concern, with over half of those surveyed—50.61%—expecting the political environment to remain unstable throughout the year. An even more concerning 39.92% predict that political conditions will become increasingly chaotic. Only a small percentage, 7.30%, are optimistic, believing that politics will become less volatile, while a mere 2.14% foresee a trouble-free political year. Despite these concerns, a majority of respondents believe that the current government, led by Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, will endure the year. Specifically, 51.22% are confident in the government's longevity. However, 21.60% expect a cabinet reshuffle, and 15.34% predict the possibility of parliamentary dissolution leading to new elections. On a more dramatic note, 15.04% suggest that internal coalition rifts could lead to governmental collapse. Additionally, some foresee the potential for mass protests or even a coup, with 5.88% and 3.05% predicting these outcomes, respectively. The economy is another major area of concern. The survey shows that 34.43% of respondents believe the economic situation will remain as bleak as the previous year, while 33.20% fear a further decline. Conversely, 21.99% hold a more positive outlook, hoping for economic improvement. When asked about their quality of life in 2025, only 20.46% of those surveyed expect improvements, while 34.43% believe it will remain unchanged. This poll reflects a mix of apprehension and cautious optimism as Thais brace themselves for an uncertain year. With economic and political challenges looming, many remain hopeful that the stability of the government will help navigate the complex issues ahead. However, the possibility of reshuffles and electoral changes highlights the precarious nature of Thai politics, making 2025 a year to watch closely for both citizens and international observers alike, reported Thai PBS. -- 2025-01-06

Spanish student dies after being attacked by elephant in Thailand Blanca Ojanguren García. Photo: Federación Hípica de Castilla y León/Facebook A Spanish student has died following an encounter with an elephant at a sanctuary in Thailand. Blanca Ojanguren Garcia, a 22-year-old who was studying Law and International Relations, tragically lost her life while participating in a bathing activity with an elephant at the Koh Yao sanctuary on Yao Yai Island. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348003-spanish-student-dies-after-being-attacked-by-elephant-in-thailand/

Blanca Ojanguren García. Photo: Federación Hípica de Castilla y León/Facebook A Spanish student has died following an encounter with an elephant at a sanctuary in Thailand. Blanca Ojanguren Garcia, a 22-year-old who was studying Law and International Relations, tragically lost her life while participating in a bathing activity with an elephant at the Koh Yao sanctuary on Yao Yai Island. The incident took place during what has become a popular tourist attraction in Thailand—elephant bathing. In a sudden turn, the elephant used its trunk to knock Garcia over, resulting in severe injuries. Efforts were made to rush her to a nearby hospital, but she ultimately succumbed to her injuries. Both local Thai police and the sanctuary itself have confirmed the details of the accident, prompting the sanctuary's temporary closure. Initial reports erroneously mentioned that Garcia had been gored, but this was rectified by Spanish news agency EFE, clarifying the nature of what transpired. Present at the incident were around 18 individuals, including Garcia's boyfriend, yet no others were injured. Originally from Valladolid, Garcia was completing her studies through a six-month program in Taiwan, having studied at the University of Navarra. She was on track to finish her undergraduate degree this year. Spain's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has been involved, with their consulate in Bangkok maintaining communication with Garcia's family. Her remains have been transported to a hospital in Phuket in preparation for repatriation procedures. In response to the incident, Valladolid Mayor Jesus Julio Carnero expressed his condolences to the family. Thailand is home to roughly 3,500 elephants, with about 2,800 involved in tourist activities, according to animal welfare organisation World Animal Protection. While elephants are generally gentle, they may react if they feel threatened or protective of their young. This incident underscores the need for continued discussions on ethical wildlife tourism and safety measures to prevent similar occurrences. It serves as a reminder of the unpredictability of wildlife behaviour and the importance of ensuring safety for both visitors and animals in tourist interactions, reported Daily Mail Online. -- 2025-01-06

Thai Club Faces Backlash for Customer ID Photos In Nonthaburi province, a well-known entertainment venue in Bang Yai is under scrutiny after allegations arose of staff photographing customers' ID cards for potential profiteering. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347998-thai-club-faces-backlash-for-customer-id-photos/

Picture courtesy: Siam Rath In Nonthaburi province, a well-known entertainment venue in Bang Yai is under scrutiny after allegations arose of staff photographing customers' ID cards for potential profiteering. This has prompted numerous customers to report concerns to local police, with 65 formal complaints filed so far and more trickling in. One of the complainants, 21-year-old Mr. Pharaoh, narrated his experience to reporters. He recounted multiple visits to the venue from 2023 to 2024, noting that staff consistently took photos of customers' ID cards and faces upon entry. Initially taken aback by this practice, he assumed it was standard procedure. However, growing concerns over identity misuse, particularly with rising scams, compelled him to seek advice from his family and file a report with Bang Yai police. Another complainant, Ms. Siriwan, 31, shared an unsettling incident involving photographs. She visited the club for a delayed birthday celebration, during which a concert was held. Her cleavage was photographed and posted on the club's Facebook page as part of a promotion for drink rewards. Although faces weren't shown, a friend recognised her in the photos and alerted her. Alarmed by the potential for misuse of her ID information, she also decided to report the incident. Both individuals stress that while the club hasn't linked ID photos to individual faces, the practice has raised serious privacy and security concerns. They urge others to be cautious, although they acknowledge that scams can arise through various means, reported Siam Rath. -- 2025-01-06

Khon Kaen Club Sparks Concerns Over ID Scanning Practice Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Residents and patrons in Khon Kaen have voiced concerns following reports of a well-known nightclub photographing and scanning customers’ ID cards before allowing entry. The practice has sparked privacy fears, particularly after similar incidents in Nonthaburi where ID data was allegedly misused. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347996-khon-kaen-club-sparks-concerns-over-id-scanning-practice/

Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Residents and patrons in Khon Kaen have voiced concerns following reports of a well-known nightclub photographing and scanning customers’ ID cards before allowing entry. The practice has sparked privacy fears, particularly after similar incidents in Nonthaburi where ID data was allegedly misused. Mr. A, a local visitor to the club, expressed discomfort after experiencing these security measures. On his visits, his ID card was both photographed and scanned with a device unfamiliar to him. He fears this personal information might be exploited, reflecting a common worry shared on social media platforms. The nightclub, defending its actions, claimed compliance with provincial mandates for strict age verification and drug prevention. They assured there was no intention to misuse customer data. In reaction to the apprehension expressed, the club has decided to pause the photographing and scanning of ID cards, opting for traditional ID checks or the use of the Thai ID app instead. Khon Kaen police chief, Pol. Col. Yosawat Kaewsipthanich, stated no official complaints have been lodged and no harm has been identified. Authorities are investigating to ensure customer data security. The club's operations comply with the Hotel Act 2004, running from 11 PM to 4 AM, reported Siam Rath. -- 2025-01-06

Liberian Duo Arrested in Bangkok for $90,000 Gold Scam Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Two Liberian nationals have been detained in Bangkok for their involvement in a $90,000 gold-selling scam, in which they tricked a Thai businessman with counterfeit banknotes. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347990-liberian-duo-arrested-in-bangkok-for-90000-gold-scam/

Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Two Liberian nationals have been detained in Bangkok for their involvement in a $90,000 gold-selling scam, in which they tricked a Thai businessman with counterfeit banknotes. According to Pol Col Pansa Amarapitak, head of Thong Lor police, the suspects, Solomon Varney Gaddeh, 32, and Yousouf Cherif, 50, were apprehended on Udomsuk Road in Bang Na late on Saturday. The arrests came after the businessman reported that two Africans deceived him out of a cash sum when he attempted to purchase 2kg of gold on 2nd January. The businessman was initially contacted by a foreigner called Richard on Facebook, who offered him gold bars below market value. They arranged a meeting in the car park of the Ibis Bangkok hotel in Soi Sukhumvit 24, where the cash exchange was to take place. At the rendezvous, Mr Gaddeh and Mr Yousouf met the businessman instead of Richard, who relayed instructions over the phone and directed them to an outdoor parking area nearby. Upon inspection, the gold bars appeared genuine; however, during the transaction, Richard called via video link, distracting the businessman. This allowed the suspects to switch the real cash for counterfeit bills. Feigning a need for their passports, they left with the gold, promising to return shortly. When they failed to return and Richard became unreachable by phone, the businessman realised the banknotes felt unusual. A nearby bank later confirmed the money was fake. The suspects admitted to the scam, revealing the stolen funds had already been transferred abroad. Police suspect that three more individuals were involved and are continuing their investigation, reported Thai Rath. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2025-01-06

Thaksin Predicts Debt-Free Thailand by 2027 with New Strategies Picture courtesy: Naewna Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has expressed confidence that Thailand will eliminate its national debt by 2027. Addressing supporters at a rally for the Pheu Thai party's candidate, Salakcharit Tiyapairat, in Chiang Rai's upcoming Provincial Administrative Organisation election, Thaksin outlined his vision for reviving the Thai economy. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347987-thaksin-predicts-debt-free-thailand-by-2027-with-new-strategies/

Picture courtesy: Naewna Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has expressed confidence that Thailand will eliminate its national debt by 2027. Addressing supporters at a rally for the Pheu Thai party's candidate, Salakcharit Tiyapairat, in Chiang Rai's upcoming Provincial Administrative Organisation election, Thaksin outlined his vision for reviving the Thai economy. In his current role as an adviser to Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, Thaksin aims to boost the price of rubber, which could significantly benefit Thai exports. He also mentioned efforts to break the monopolised export of rice, allowing more Thais to participate directly in the global market. Thaksin emphasised that Pheu Thai intends to capitalise on economic opportunities this year, paving the way for gradually clearing national debts. He stressed that these financial burdens weren't created by Pheu Thai but inherited from previous administrations. Addressing societal issues, Thaksin highlighted the longstanding problem of drug trafficking among youths and pledged that his daughter, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, would intensify efforts to combat this issue. The plan includes cracking down on influential figures profiting from narcotics. Thaksin also touched on scams originating from call centres in Myanmar's Myawaddy township, near Thailand's Mae Sot border. He is in talks with Myanmar to address these scams, offering Thai assistance if needed, reported Thai Newsroom. Picture courtesy: Naewna -- 2025-01-06