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MP demands answers on income and legality of Chinese police training By Petch Petpailin Photo via X/ @lawyerJammy A Member of Parliament (MP) from the People’s Party raised questions to the Royal Thai Police (RTP) regarding the income generated from a special training programme for Chinese volunteer police, as well as the legality and effectiveness of the training, which took only three days to complete. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347768-mp-demands-answers-on-income-and-legality-of-chinese-police-training/

Thailand tourism earns 1.66 trillion baht from 35 million visitors By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Thailand welcomed over 35 million travellers in 2024, with visitors contributing more than 1.6 trillion baht (US$46.8 billion) to the economy, reported the Ministry of Tourism and Sports. Tourism Minister Sorawong Thienthong announced that from January 1 to December 29, a total of 35.32 million people visited the country, spending 1.66 trillion baht (US$48.5 billion). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347740-thailand-tourism-earns-166-trillion-baht-from-35-million-visitors/

to continue: Thailand Live Friday 3 January 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1347753-thailand-live-friday-3-january-2025/

Photo courtesy of PoliceTV Facebook Skydiving stunt lands 3 Americans in hot water at Bangkok mall - video By Puntid Tantivangphaisal A brazen late-night stunt by three American daredevils has left Bangkok police fuming after a viral video showed them parachuting off the roof of the Emsphere shopping mall. The outrageous clip, posted on TikTok by user @armankremer with hashtags like #basejump and #urbex, ignited a storm of online criticism and has prompted the mall to press trespassing charges. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347749-skydiving-stunt-lands-3-americans-in-hot-water-at-bangkok-mall-video/

Chinese Tourist Seriously Injured After Allegedly Being Attacked by Guards on Pattayas Walking Street By Kittisak Phalaharn Pattaya — In the early hours of December 31st, 2024, a Thai woman reported an alleged assault on her Chinese boyfriend by security guards at a nightclub on Pattaya’s Walking Street. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347703-chinese-tourist-seriously-injured-after-allegedly-being-attacked-by-guards-on-pattayas-walki/

By Kittisak Phalaharn Pattaya — In the early hours of December 31st, 2024, a Thai woman reported an alleged assault on her Chinese boyfriend by security guards at a nightclub on Pattaya’s Walking Street. The incident occurred late on December 27th. The woman, Ms. Bee (alias), 27, presented photos and a police report to the media, showing her boyfriend, a Chinese businessman, severely injured with a swollen face, broken teeth, and bruises. According to her, the conflict began after a drinking game at their table resulted in a broken glass. Although her boyfriend stated that he did not cause the damage, he was forcefully removed from the venue, sparking an argument. Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS -- 2025-01-02

Teenagers arrested for throwing bombs at hospital in Thailand by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Two teenagers have been apprehended after they threw ping pong bombs at Khuan Khanun Hospital, causing panic among staff and patients. They admitted to the act, stating it was done on a whim after purchasing the explosives on their way to a friend’s house. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347690-teenagers-arrested-for-throwing-bombs-at-hospital-in-thailand/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod by Bright Choomanee Two teenagers have been apprehended after they threw ping pong bombs at Khuan Khanun Hospital, causing panic among staff and patients. They admitted to the act, stating it was done on a whim after purchasing the explosives on their way to a friend’s house. The incident occurred at 12.15am yesterday, December 31, when the teenagers, riding a Honda Scoopy i motorcycle, passed by the hospital. They intended to throw the bombs against the hospital wall, but threw them too hard, causing them to land near an oxygen storage room and patients receiving treatment. Police were alerted by the disturbance, and a team led by Sakariya Yusoh, the superintendent of Khuan Khanun Police Station, swiftly began an investigation. By reviewing CCTV footage, they managed to identify and apprehend the teenagers. The 17 year old was driving the motorcycle, while the 15 year old rode pillion. The teenagers confessed to their actions, claiming they were spurred by the thrill and ease of acquiring the bombs. One of the teenagers explained, “We saw the bombs being sold openly and decided to buy three of them just for fun.” Currently, no formal charges have been filed as the police await the involvement of multidisciplinary professionals and the teenagers’ guardians for further questioning. The investigation continues to ensure all responsible parties are held accountable, reported KhaoSod. Following a detailed inspection of the scene, 54 year old Thiradet Chandrang, head of the investigation team, tragically collapsed and passed away while leaving the site. Efforts to revive him were unsuccessful, leaving his family and colleagues in mourning. Thiradet was highly respected within the Khuan Khanun Police Station for his dedication and integrity. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-02

PM Paetongtarn’s New Year Message : Unity & Progress by Krajangwit Johjit BANGKOK - Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra delivered her New Year’s message for 2025, reflecting on the challenges and progress of the past year while sharing aspirations for the year ahead. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347687-pm-paetongtarn’s-new-year-message-unity-progress/

by Krajangwit Johjit BANGKOK - Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra delivered her New Year’s message for 2025, reflecting on the challenges and progress of the past year while sharing aspirations for the year ahead. Addressing the nation via Radio Thailand, she acknowledged the hardships faced in 2024, including severe flooding that disrupted lives, damaged property, and affected the economy. She praised the combined efforts of government agencies, local authorities, the military, and volunteers in helping Thailand manage these crises and outlined plans to improve infrastructure to mitigate future risks. The prime minister also addressed the economic pressures resulting from global instability, trade restrictions, and international conflicts. She credited a coordinated approach and public cooperation for the country’s signs of recovery, with economic growth surpassing previous years. Paetongtarn reaffirmed the government’s commitment to sustaining progress and creating opportunities for Thai citizens in the coming year. Looking to 2025, the premier described the year as one filled with opportunities for all Thais, making clear the importance of unity and resilience as the nation works toward shared goals. She expressed her hope for citizens to embrace the positive changes and opportunities ahead while enjoying meaningful time with family and friends during the holiday season. In her message, she conveyed wishes for happiness, health, and success for all citizens. She also extended prayers for the continued well-being of the Royal Family and called for collective hope as the nation enters 2025 with optimism and determination. (NNT) -- 2025-01-02

Luxury Car Sales Plummet Amidst Economic Hurdles in Thailand File photo for reference only Thailand's luxury automotive market is forecasted to experience a notable decline in sales, with predictions that figures will reach just 30,000 vehicles by the end of 2024. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347686-luxury-car-sales-plummet-amidst-economic-hurdles-in-thailand/

File photo for reference only Thailand's luxury automotive market is forecasted to experience a notable decline in sales, with predictions that figures will reach just 30,000 vehicles by the end of 2024. This represents a sharp drop from the 40,000 sold in 2023, as the luxury car segment grapples with the broader economic downturn and escalating household debt issues. Wearnes Automotive Thailand, known for distributing the British sports car brand Lotus Cars, underscores the challenges faced by this market. Despite higher purchasing power typical among luxury car buyers, the sluggish economic growth—recorded at a mere 1.5% in the first quarter of 2024—coupled with stringent loan approval processes by banks wary of bad debts, have created hurdles in car sales. "The entirety of the luxury car market is feeling these economic pressures," notes Teeraphong Rodloy, the country manager for Wearnes Automotive Thailand. In contrast to the luxury segment, the pickup truck market has suffered significantly more, with sales reaching historic lows unseen in the last 23 years. Ford Thailand's managing director, Ratthakarn Jutasen, highlights a dramatic year-on-year drop in October 2024 of 41.6%, with only 10,896 units sold. However, Surapong Paisitpatanapong of the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) suggests that the luxury car market might be somewhat insulated from these downturns, as demand remains relatively stable despite financing challenges. Wearnes Automotive's own performance seems to defy the trend, surpassing their 2024 target of 200 luxury vehicles sold, driven by consumers whose lifestyles favour high-end automobiles. Their latest offering, the "Lotus Chapman Bespoke" electric vehicle, has been introduced in Thailand following its initial launch. But Mr Teeraphong cautions against complacency. He predicts that competition within the luxury car sector is poised to intensify in 2025, potentially leading some dealers to adopt aggressive pricing strategies—even venturing into price-cutting tactics if not a full-fledged price war. The trajectory of Thailand's luxury automotive market remains uncertain, as it navigates these economic storms. Whether the demand will buoy through the anticipated challenges of 2025 will hinge heavily on the economic environment and consumer confidence in the year ahead, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-01-02

Picture courtesy: Daily News As the New Year celebrations are underway, courts in Thailand have taken a firm stance on driving offences. On 30th December, the fourth day of the intensified "10 Dangerous Days" campaign, 2,032 cases were sent to probation processes. The majority of these, 1,997 cases, were related to drink driving, while 35 cases involved driving under drug influence. Over the past four days, from 27th to 30th December, a total of 3,795 cases have been placed under probation. Of these, a staggering 96.47% involved drink driving incidents. Chiang Mai recorded the highest number of drink driving cases at 306, followed by Bangkok with 294 and Samut Prakan with 258. Notably, the highest blood alcohol level measured was 302 milligrams per cent. In response to these figures, the courts in three locations have mandated electronic monitoring (EM) tags for 19 offenders within a single day. These orders included 18 cases of drink driving, with tags set for either three or four months, and one case of drug-related driving. This brings the cumulative number of offenders tagged in the first four days to 23. Picture courtesy: Daily News The Department of Probation has ramped up activities during this period, collaborating with various agencies to support New Year travellers and promote road safety. Initiatives include traffic law education and landscape improvements to minimise risk areas. Volunteers and officials are working together to enforce the law strictly, checking offender history, and monitoring traffic via CCTV. These efforts align with directives from the Ministry of Justice and the Traffic Accident Reduction Committee to enhance public awareness and ensure safe driving throughout the year, reported Siam Rath. -- 2025-01-02

Crackdown on Drink Driving: 19 Drivers Fitted with EM Bracelets in One Day Picture courtesy: Daily News As the New Year celebrations are underway, courts in Thailand have taken a firm stance on driving offences. On 30th December, the fourth day of the intensified "10 Dangerous Days" campaign, 2,032 cases were sent to probation processes. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347673-crackdown-on-drink-driving-19-drivers-fitted-with-em-bracelets-in-just-one-day/

Thai Politics Poised for Potential Turmoil Amidst Economic Strains File photo courtesy: Wikipedia ANALYSIS Thailand's political scene is bracing for potential upheaval as waning public confidence in the government's economic management casts a shadow over the Pheu Thai Party-led administration. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347676-thai-politics-poised-for-potential-turmoil-amidst-economic-strains/

File photo courtesy: Wikipedia ANALYSIS Thailand's political scene is bracing for potential upheaval as waning public confidence in the government's economic management casts a shadow over the Pheu Thai Party-led administration. Parliament President Wan Muhammad Noor Matha has voiced concerns that unresolved economic issues, now as the government nears the midpoint of its four-year term, could stir political unrest. Public dissatisfaction with the government's handling of the economy, if unabated, could challenge the administration's ability to serve its complete term. However, Mr Wan hinted at a potential outcome: if the government can address these economic grievances effectively, public satisfaction might enable it to endure until the elections. He has observed a notable improvement in parliamentarians’ conduct compared to previous ones. Debates have been more constructive, and importantly, parliamentary sessions have not faltered due to lack of attendance—encouraging signs that might bolster public trust in parliament. Contrarily, People’s Party leader Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut plans to initiate a censure debate against the government by March, underscoring newfound opposition determination. While admitting past oversight inadequacies, his focus will now sharpen on scrutinising government operations, especially regarding laws pivotal to constitutional revisions. On the other hand, Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai remains optimistic about the government's prospects, despite looming challenges. Among these hurdles are maritime territorial disputes with neighbouring Cambodia and the speculated return of former Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra, events that could reignite political tensions. Yingluck Shinawatra, having left Thailand in 2017 before a five-year jail sentence for a controversial rice subsidy scheme, might soon stage a return. Some analysts predict her homecoming could evoke similarities to her brother Thaksin’s return, potentially fuelling political disturbance. Despite these prospects, Mr Phumtham, also the defence minister, dismisses fears of imminent tumult or a military coup, asserting that if Yingluck returns, adherence to legal protocols would negate any justification for a coup. Meanwhile, Yingluck has publicly extended New Year wishes for prosperity and resilience to the Thai populace. As Thailand enters a new year fraught with economic and political uncertainties, the government stands at the crossroads, with its ability to navigate current crises critically determining its longevity in power, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-01-02

Firework Mishap Injures Tourists in Pattaya Picture courtesy of TMN A fireworks incident in Pattaya, during New Year’s Eve celebrations left two persons injured, despite repeated warnings to cease unsafe activities. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1347641-firework-mishap-injures-tourists-in-pattaya/

Deadly New Year Roads: 215 Deaths in Five Days Thailand’s roads have proven deadly once again during the New Year holiday season, with 215 lives lost just five days into the “10 Dangerous Days” road safety campaign, officials revealed today. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1347645-deadly-new-year-roads-215-deaths-in-five-days/

to continue: Thailand Live Thursday 2 January 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1347637-thailand-live-thursday-2-january-2025/

File photo courtesy: Bangkokbiz News Bank of Thailand Boosts Mobile Security with New Transfer Limits In a strategic move to bolster the security of mobile banking, the Bank of Thailand (BoT) is putting mechanisms in place to protect vulnerable users such as teenagers and the elderly. The plan introduces a daily transfer cap of 50,000 baht for these groups, aiming to shield them from fraud and financial abuse. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347631-bank-of-thailand-boosts-mobile-security-with-new-transfer-limits/

Bank of Thailand Boosts Mobile Security with New Transfer Limits File photo courtesy: Bangkokbiz News In a strategic move to bolster the security of mobile banking, the Bank of Thailand (BoT) is putting mechanisms in place to protect vulnerable users such as teenagers and the elderly. The plan introduces a daily transfer cap of 50,000 baht for these groups, aiming to shield them from fraud and financial abuse. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347631-bank-of-thailand-boosts-mobile-security-with-new-transfer-limits/

File photo courtesy: Bangkokbiz News In a strategic move to bolster the security of mobile banking, the Bank of Thailand (BoT) is putting mechanisms in place to protect vulnerable users such as teenagers and the elderly. The plan introduces a daily transfer cap of 50,000 baht for these groups, aiming to shield them from fraud and financial abuse. Feedback from the public has already been gathered by the BoT as it gears up to amend regulations surrounding financial service security. The focus is on curbing the risks associated with mobile banking apps, which have become increasingly popular yet fraught with security concerns. Prime groups affected by these changes include the elderly and individuals under the age of 15. Considered more susceptible to scams, these users often fall prey to fraudsters who dupe them into sending large sums of money. By instituting a daily transfer limit, the BoT is taking proactive steps to safeguard their financial wellbeing. Beyond limiting transfers for certain users, banks will also be required to enhance their mobile app security protocols. Transactions over 50,000 baht per instance, or exceeding 200,000 baht daily, must incorporate advanced measures like facial recognition and biometric verification to thwart identity theft and unauthorized access. Moreover, the BoT stipulates that mobile banking providers implement robust security technology to defend against malware and hacking - including ensuring apps do not function on jailbroken devices or those employing outdated operating systems. The announcement of these stringent measures is expected this month. The BoT aims for all non-bank service providers under its oversight to adhere to equivalent security standards by early next year. A step further in regulatory efforts, there's an ongoing discussion regarding the liability of financial institutions in cases of fraudulent transfers. Drawing inspiration from Singapore's Cyber Security Agency, the BoT is considering frameworks that would define institutional responsibility and liability sharing between banks and regulatory bodies in the event of fraudulent activity. The amended regulations will also impose stricter penalties on entities peddling customer data—a significant loophole currently exploited by scammers. In a recent incident, BoT spokesperson Chayawadee Chaianan highlighted a complaint in Udon Thani, where an auditing firm claimed a loss of 2 million baht via mobile banking. The BoT has since instructed the banks involved to meticulously probe the matter, underscoring the urgent need for vigilance on account activity, particularly for business clients. By reforming digital transaction protocols, the BoT is not only fortifying the financial landscape against fraud but also reinforcing trust in Thailand's digital banking future, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-01-01

Holidays by Nick Youngson CC BY-SA 3.0 Alpha Stock Images Holidays and Observances in Thailand in 2025 1 Jan Wednesday New Year's Day National Holiday 11 Jan Saturday National Children's Day Observance 16 Jan Thursday Teachers' Day Observance 29 Jan Wednesday Chinese New Year's Day Observance 30 Jan Thursday Second Day of Chinese New Year Observance 31 Jan Friday Third Day of Chinese New Year Observance 12 Feb Wednesday Makha Bucha National Holiday 14 Feb Friday Valentine's Day Observance 20 Mar Thursday March Equinox Season 6 Apr Sunday Chakri Day National Holiday 7 Apr Monday Day off for Chakri Day National Holiday 13 Apr Sunday Songkran National Holiday 14 Apr Monday Songkran Holiday National Holiday 15 Apr Tuesday Songkran Holiday National Holiday 16 Apr Wednesday Songkran Observed National Holiday 1 May Thursday Labor Day Bank holiday 4 May Sunday Coronation Day National Holiday 5 May Monday Day off for Coronation Day National Holiday 11 May Sunday Visakha Bucha National Holiday 12 May Monday Day off for Visakha Bucha National Holiday 2 Jun Monday Bridge Public Holiday National Holiday 3 Jun Tuesday Queen Suthida's Birthday National Holiday 21 Jun Saturday June Solstice Season 10 Jul Thursday Asalha Bucha National Holiday 28 Jul Monday King Vajiralongkorn's Birthday National Holiday 11 Aug Monday Bridge Public Holiday National Holiday 12 Aug Tuesday The Queen's Birthday National Holiday 23 Sep Tuesday September Equinox Season 13 Oct Monday Anniversary of the Death of King Bhumibol National Holiday 23 Oct Thursday Chulalongkorn Day National Holiday 31 Oct Friday Halloween Observance 5 Dec Friday King Bhumibol's Birthday/Father's Day National Holiday 10 Dec Wednesday Constitution Day National Holiday 21 Dec Sunday December Solstice Season 24 Dec Wednesday Christmas Eve Observance 25 Dec Thursday Christmas Day Observance 31 Dec Wednesday New Year's Eve National Holiday While we diligently research and update our holiday dates, some of the information in the table above may be preliminary. Source: https://www.timeanddate.com/holidays/thailand/2025

People's Party Takes Lead Over Pheu Thai in Latest Nida Poll Natthapong Ruengpanyawut. Picture courtesy: Wikipedia Natthapong Ruengpanyawut, the leader of the opposition People’s Party, is emerging as the leading candidate for Thailand's prime minister, slightly surpassing current Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, as reflected in the latest opinion poll conducted by the National Institute of Development Administration (Nida). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347481-peoples-party-takes-lead-over-pheu-thai-in-latest-nida-poll/

Natthapong Ruengpanyawut. Picture courtesy: Wikipedia Natthapong Ruengpanyawut, the leader of the opposition People’s Party, is emerging as the leading candidate for Thailand's prime minister, slightly surpassing current Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, as reflected in the latest opinion poll conducted by the National Institute of Development Administration (Nida) from December 19 to 24. The results indicate significant shifts in political favour as the nation anticipates its forthcoming elections. The poll, which sampled 2,000 individuals across the country, revealed that 29.85% of respondents preferred Natthapong for the premiership. His appeal seems rooted in his commitment to party values and his appeal to younger voters. These elements have evidently resonated well, giving him a slight edge over frontrunner Paetongtarn Shinawatra, who garnered 28.80% support. Paetongtarn, the current leader of the ruling Pheu Thai Party and progeny of former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra, is seen as a modern leader with an understanding of business administration, which has earned her considerable support. While enthusiasm for Natthapong and Paetongtarn dominates, 14.40% of respondents remain undecided, indicating potential fluidity in public opinion as election season heats up. Other figures in the political fray include Energy Minister Pirapan Salirathavibhaga of the United Thai Nation Party, who attracted 10.25% of the respondents' votes. He is perceived as a knowledgeable legal expert and approachable leader. Meanwhile, Anutin Charnvirakul, leading the Bhumjaithai Party—the second largest in the coalition—received 6.45% endorsement, recognised for his dedication to national development. Further down the popularity scale, Khunying Sudarat Keyuraphan of Thai Sang Thai claimed 4.95%, Gen Prawit Wongsuwon of Palang Pracharath gathered 1.70%, and Chalermchai Sri-on of the Democrat Party attracted 1.05%. In terms of party preference, the People’s Party appears to have solidified its lead, capturing support from 37.30% of respondents. This surpasses Pheu Thai, which now holds 27.70% of the respondents' backing. The Thai United Nation, Bhumjaithai, Democrat, and Palang Pracharath parties trail with 10.60%, 5.15%, 3.40%, and 3.05% support respectively. These shifting poll results underscore a dynamic political landscape in Thailand, where political allegiances are evolving as the election draws near. Once the quintessential choice, Pheu Thai now faces a formidable challenge from the ascending People’s Party, setting the stage for an intriguing electoral contest, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-12-30