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KiHA 40. File photo courtesy of Thai Train Guide The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) is gearing up to commence testing its newly acquired KiHa 40 and 48 diesel trains before the end of June. Provided as a donation from Japan, these second-hand trains are earmarked for suburban feeder routes by the year's end. SRT governor Veeris Ammarapala announced that modifications have been made to ensure their compatibility with Thailand’s narrow-gauge tracks. Out of the 20 units undergoing refurbishment by the SRT, several are set to begin operations by the year-end. The trains’ engines, transmissions, brakes, and other systems are currently under rigorous testing at SRT's Makkasan depot. Veeris emphasized that these evaluations are adhering to established industry standards, with all components subject to final inspections prior to the test runs, predicted to occur between late May and the end of June. Following the completion of systems tests, the interiors of the trains will be updated to meet modern standards to enhance passenger appeal. Seats will be reupholstered with synthetic leather suitable for commuter services, and the toilets will be upgraded with Western-style seating and waste-holding tanks. Once interior enhancements are finished, the trains’ exteriors will be repainted, although final colour scheme decisions are still pending. The plan is to have between four to six trains ready for suburban service later this year, with additional units entering service as they become operationally ready. This rollout is anticipated to increase the SRT’s train fleet, meeting growing demand for suburban passenger services. This measured expansion reflects SRT’s commitment to enhancing its transport capabilities, ensuring more efficient and reliable service for commuters. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-05-17

Premchai, 14 Others Remanded in Custody Following Fatal Bangkok Building Collapse President of Italian-Thai Development Co Premchai Karnasuta, on a wheelchair, leaves the Bang Sue police station to a criminal court for a pre-trail detention in Bangkok, Thailand, Friday, May 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) In a dramatic turn of events, the Ratchada Criminal Court on May 16 denied bail and ordered the detention of Premchai Karnasuta, the president of Italian-Thai Development Plc, along with 14 others. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360884-premchai-14-others-remanded-in-custody-following-fatal-bangkok-building-collapse/

Health Minister Forms Panel to Examine Thaksin Medical Care Controversy Picture courtesy of Thai PBS World Thailand's Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsuthin has taken a decisive step by assembling a 10-member panel to review the Medical Council’s ruling on the treatment provided to former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360898-health-minister-forms-panel-to-examine-thaksin-medical-care-controversy/

Picture courtesy of Thai PBS World Thailand's Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsuthin has taken a decisive step by assembling a 10-member panel to review the Medical Council’s ruling on the treatment provided to former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra. The panel’s evaluation will be crucial as it will guide Somsak, currently serving as a special chairman of the Medical Council, on how to manage the resolution outcomes. The Medical Council’s resolution, presented by Public Health Vice Minister Thanakrit Chitarirat, demands a timely response from Somsak by Thursday this week. Somsak holds the power to either support or reject the resolution, a decision that could determine the future implications for medical personnel involved. Should he choose to exercise a veto, the resolution will be remitted to the Medical Council for further deliberation. To override Somsak’s potential veto, a supermajority, two-thirds of the council members, will be required to maintain the resolution. The controversy stems from an incident on May 8th where the Medical Council found ethical lapses in the medical handling of Thaksin’s reported health issues. The Council resolved to issue a warning to one doctor and suspend the medical licenses of two others for irregularities in Thaksin’s medical dossiers. This action has sparked appeals from the former PGH chief, Pol Lt-Gen Sophonrat Singhacharu, and the current chief, Pol Lt-Gen Thaweesilp Wechwitarn, directed at Justice Minister Somsak. This unfolding event highlights the delicate balance between medical oversight and political nuances, with its outcome potentially impacting the credibility and authority of healthcare practices. As health authorities and political figures await the next steps, all eyes are on how Somsak will navigate this intricate situation within the allotted time frame. The decision has wide-reaching implications and will set the tone for future medical governance in the region. Adapted by ASEAN Now from THai PBS World 2025-05-17

Thai Defense Minister Phumtham Denies Deal To Hand Over Sub To Cambodia File photo courtesy of Thai PBS World In a surprising twist to a military procurement saga, Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai has denied knowledge of any plans to deliver a Chinese-commissioned, partly-built submarine to Cambodia. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360897-thai-defense-minister-phumtham-denies-deal-to-hand-over-sub-to-cambodia/

File photo courtesy of Thai PBS World In a surprising twist to a military procurement saga, Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai has denied knowledge of any plans to deliver a Chinese-commissioned, partly-built submarine to Cambodia. The statement comes amidst rising tensions due to Germany's decision not to supply China with submarine engines intended for the vessel. The situation leaves Thailand in an awkward predicament with a submarine project in limbo. Germany’s refusal is rooted in its NATO commitments, preventing them from exporting military-grade equipment to China. This development not only underscores ongoing geopolitical tensions but also sparks doubts about the submarine project’s future. "Germany reaffirmed its good relationship with Thailand, but clearly stated its NATO obligations," Phumtham reported after meeting with his German counterpart. The submarine in question is the Chinese-built S26T, for which Thailand has already forked out over 70% of the total payment. With no engines to power it, Thailand faces a dilemma. Phumtham mentioned that they are awaiting a formal response from Germany but noted that an unofficial reply has already been communicated, setting the stage for Thailand to consider its next steps. As for the project's future, Phumtham suggests a reassessment is inevitable. "Proceeding under the current stance may no longer be an option. We need to look at the contract afresh, evaluate the feasibility, and see if continuing makes sense," he explained. This situation certainly places Thailand in a critical position, requiring strategic deliberation to move forward. In conclusion, the unresolved issue of the submarine's power plant adds another layer of complexity to the defence relationship between Thailand and its international partners. The situation remains fluid, with no definitive solution in sight and implications that span beyond military assets to involve wider diplomatic and economic considerations. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Nation 2025-05-17

Thailand to Introduce "Salt Tax" to Spice Up Health Food Market File photo The Thai Excise Department prepares to launch a new "salt tax" using a tiered structure aimed at promoting healthier living. Following the successful implementation of the sugar tax on 1st April 2025, attention now shifts to reducing sodium intake among Thais. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360895-thailand-to-introduce-salt-tax-to-spice-up-health-food-market/

File photo The Thai Excise Department prepares to launch a new "salt tax" using a tiered structure aimed at promoting healthier living. Following the successful implementation of the sugar tax on 1st April 2025, attention now shifts to reducing sodium intake among Thais. Industry players are keenly watching as the measure is set to transform beverage, snack, and food sectors, pushing for more low-sodium offerings. The initiative promises to shift the market dynamics, with significant implications for consumer goods involving drinks, snacks, and instant noodles. The tiered tax will incentivise manufacturers to innovate within low-sodium product lines to alleviate future tax pressures. This echoes the transformational ripple effect witnessed in the wake of the sugar tax, and is projected to accelerate growth in Thailand’s burgeoning health food sector. Slated for roll-out soon, the tiered salt tax emerges as a focal point in Thailand's health-centric fiscal strategies. According to Kulaya Tantitemit, Director-General of the Excise Department, the new tax aligns with public health guidances and aims to reduce the alarmingly high sodium intake from around 3,600 mg currently consumed by Thais to the WHO-recommended limit of 2,000 mg. This policy envisages minimal cost disruption for producers while steering consumer habits towards healthier alternatives. Strategic consultations are ongoing with vital entities such as the Ministry of Public Health and the Federation of Thai Industries, seeking to fine-tune the policy to market realities. Key attention zones for the impending salt tax include high-sodium staples like instant noodles, snacks, and frozen foods, signalling manufacturers to brace for regulatory adjustments in these categories. Essential daily foods, however, may receive adjusted guidelines to mitigate impacts on affordability and accessibility. The salt tax will specifically target sodium content with appropriate measurement standards and thresholds determining tax levels, functioning similarly to the sugar tax. As the plans take shape, stakeholders from public health to industry boards are poised to embrace and execute a change that could revolutionise Thailand’s food scene in pursuit of better public health. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Nation 2025-05-17

Thai Sailors Convicted in Nigeria Cocaine Trafficking, Vessel Fined ฿148M Picture courtesy of The Guardian Nigeria In a dramatic court ruling yesterday, ten Thai sailors were convicted for trafficking 32.9 kilogrammes of cocaine into Nigeria. Justice Daniel Osiagor of the Federal High Court in Lagos handed down the verdict, also condemning their ship, MV Chayanee Naree, which was used in the operation, to a hefty fine of $4 million, equating to approximately 148 million Thai Baht. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360887-thai-sailors-convicted-in-nigeria-cocaine-trafficking-vessel-fined-฿148m/

Picture courtesy of The Guardian Nigeria In a dramatic court ruling yesterday, ten Thai sailors were convicted for trafficking 32.9 kilogrammes of cocaine into Nigeria. Justice Daniel Osiagor of the Federal High Court in Lagos handed down the verdict, also condemning their ship, MV Chayanee Naree, which was used in the operation, to a hefty fine of $4 million, equating to approximately 148 million Thai Baht. The sailors—Krilerk Tanakhan, Boonlert Hansoongnern, Jakkarin Booncharoen, Thammarong Put-tlek, Worrapat Paopinta, Marut Kantaprom, Werapat Somboonying, Urkit Amsri, Panudet Jaisuk, and Amrat Thawom—were apprehended in October 2021 at Apapa, Lagos. Their vessel had sailed from Brazil, raising suspicions and resulting in their arrest by Nigerian authorities under charges of conspiracy, unlawful transportation, and unlawful importation of cocaine. Arraigned alongside the seamen were nine Nigerians, who the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) accused of collaboration in the illegal operation. However, their trial has been postponed, with the court setting the next hearing date for June 25. Initially, the convicted sailors pleaded a no-case submission, asserting insufficient evidence from the prosecution. This stance was overturned by Justice Osiagor, who highlighted the strength of the NDLEA's evidence, eventually leading the sailors to strike a plea bargain. The ruling saw the vessel’s three captains, Krilerk Tanakhan, Boonlert Hansoongnern, and Jakkarin Booncharoen, slapped with personal fines of $50,000 each, equivalent to roughly 1.86 million Baht, while their subordinates were fined $30,000 each, or approximately 1.12 million Baht. The prosecution, represented by Mrs Theresa Asuquo, A. Adebayo, and Paul Awogbuyi, argued convincingly against a highly capable defence team made up of Babajide Koku, Femi Atoyebi, and Tunde Adejuyigbe SAN. In the wake of this judgment, the focus turns to the next legal proceedings on June 25 involving the Nigerian nationals linked to the crime. This pivotal conviction underscores the international dimension of drug trafficking and the severe penalties awaiting those found guilty. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Guardian Nigeria 2025-05-17

Premchai, 14 Others Remanded in Custody Following Fatal Bangkok Building Collapse President of Italian-Thai Development Co Premchai Karnasuta, on a wheelchair, leaves the Bang Sue police station to a criminal court for a pre-trail detention in Bangkok, Thailand, Friday, May 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) In a dramatic turn of events, the Ratchada Criminal Court on May 16 denied bail and ordered the detention of Premchai Karnasuta, the president of Italian-Thai Development Plc, along with 14 others. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360884-premchai-14-others-remanded-in-custody-following-fatal-bangkok-building-collapse/

President of Italian-Thai Development Co Premchai Karnasuta, on a wheelchair, leaves the Bang Sue police station to a criminal court for a pre-trail detention in Bangkok, Thailand, Friday, May 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) In a dramatic turn of events, the Ratchada Criminal Court on May 16 denied bail and ordered the detention of Premchai Karnasuta, the president of Italian-Thai Development Plc, along with 14 others. These individuals are implicated in the catastrophic collapse of the State Audit building in Bangkok, which occurred during the March 28 earthquake. Although the tragedy claimed the lives of around 92 people, the gravity of the incident extends beyond the casualty figures, sending ripples of fear and concern through the public. The court cited the likelihood of the defendants fleeing as the primary reason for denying their bail plea. Furthermore, it advised that the Thai police still need to question 15 more witnesses as part of an ongoing investigation. Italian-Thai Development Plc, the main contractor of the ill-fated building, now finds itself in the spotlight along with its top executives, designers, and engineers. Of the 17 charged, two suspects successfully postponed their surrender for documentation reasons, set to resolve by May 19. During transport, Premchai was given special arrangements due to his health condition. While the other detainees travelled to court in a van, Premchai was transported separately in a pickup truck, owing to his need for a wheelchair and urinary catheter. This arrangement followed authorities enforcing equal treatment for all defendants, despite Premchai's initial request to use his own vehicle. This legal debacle is not Premchai's first. Back in 2019, he served two and a half years in prison for wildlife offences. These charges followed the discovery of illegal hunting at a sanctuary, involving the carcasses of protected animals like a rare black panther. The scandal over these hunts shocked the nation, further complicating Premchai’s public profile and compounding his legal troubles. As the investigation unfolds, the implications of the building's collapse, both legal and societal, await further clarity. With additional witnesses and reports pending, the ramifications for those implicated remain a focal point of public anticipation. The case currently stands as a stark reminder of the serious repercussions when negligence occurs in major infrastructure projects in Thailand. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai Newsroom 2025-05-17

Brutal Bloodshed in Pattaya: Briton Stabbed, Suspects Vanish Picture courtesy of Facebook Siam Chon News A chilling incident unfolded in Pattaya when a British national, Mr. Andrew, was found in critical condition after being stabbed and thrown from a vehicle. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360877-brutal-bloodshed-in-pattaya-briton-stabbed-suspects-vanish/

Pictures courtesy of Facebook Siam Chon News A chilling incident unfolded in Pattaya when a British national, Mr. Andrew, was found in critical condition after being stabbed and thrown from a vehicle. The harrowing event took place at around 5:00 PM on May 16th, 2025, near the Pattaya Provincial Court on Thappraya Road. Responding promptly, Pattaya City Police and Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan Foundation rescue volunteers arrived to find the victim suffering from severe injuries, including a deep facial wound and multiple stab wounds to his chest and abdomen. Eyewitness Mr. Sayan Samanmit, a 49-year-old taxi driver, recounted the grim scene to the media. He observed a white Toyota Veloz with Phuket plates speeding into a parking area, narrowly avoiding collision with nearby bushes. Three foreigners, two men and a woman, exited the vehicle. One of the men forcibly dragged Mr. Andrew, already bloodied and wounded, from the back seat, leaving him on the ground before fleeing the scene, reported Adam Judd of The Pattaya News. In Mr. Sayan's account, the attacker attempted to further harm Mr. Andrew before instructing his accomplice, a woman, to re-enter the car and flee. Despite the severity of the situation, Mr. Sayan quickly contacted the authorities and captured images of the suspect vehicle, providing crucial evidence for the ongoing police investigation. As of press time, the assailants remain at large despite police efforts to intercept their vehicle as it raced towards South Pattaya Road. The police are continuing their search for the suspects, seeking to secure justice for the victim who is now receiving medical care at Pattaya Memorial Hospital. The investigation is focusing on determining the motive behind this alarming attack and locating the whereabouts of the suspects. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Pattaya News 2025-05-17

Viral Trend in Thailand: "Hired Relatives" for Graduation Ceremonies File photo for reference only A unique service offering has taken Thailand by storm after a man named Anon and his friends introduced a "hired relatives" option for university graduates whose families can't attend their commencement ceremonies. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360860-viral-trend-in-thailand-hired-relatives-for-graduation-ceremonies/

Tourism Shock: Thailand's Visitor Numbers See Alarming Plunge Picture courtesy of Xinhua Thailand's tourism sector faces a pressing situation as foreign arrivals nosedive, with both leisure and corporate travellers dwindling. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360809-tourism-shock-thailands-visitor-numbers-see-alarming-plunge/

to continue: Thailand Live Saturday 17 May 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1360848-thailand-live-saturday-17-may-2025/

VIP hospital suite allegedly used by former PM Thaksin revealed Picture courtesy of Thai PBS World Dr Warong Dechgitvigrom, leader of the Thai Pakdee Party, released a viral video this week revealing the interior of a VIP room at the Police General Hospital in Bangkok. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360816-dr-warong-unveils-vip-hospital-suite-allegedly-used-by-thaksin/

Dr Warong Unveils VIP Hospital Suite Allegedly Used by Thaksin Picture courtesy of Thai PBS World Dr Warong Dechgitvigrom, leader of the Thai Pakdee Party, released a viral video this week revealing the interior of a VIP room at the Police General Hospital in Bangkok. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360816-dr-warong-unveils-vip-hospital-suite-allegedly-used-by-thaksin/

Picture courtesy of Thai PBS World Dr Warong Dechgitvigrom, leader of the Thai Pakdee Party, released a viral video this week revealing the interior of a VIP room at the Police General Hospital in Bangkok. This room is strikingly similar to the luxurious suite former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra reportedly inhabited for six months during his medical treatment. In a 3-minute, 17-second Facebook video, Dr Warong shared his impromptu findings with the public, providing a rare glimpse inside the controversial suite. Dr Warong, known for his staunch opposition to Thaksin, expressed concern over the opulence of the suite typically reserved for those with supposedly critical medical needs. During his visit, Dr Warong discovered the room contained lavish furnishings, like a dining table and lounge furniture, all framed by sweeping panoramic views. However, it notably lacked standard intensive care equipment like ventilators or vital signs monitors. Picture courtesy of Thai PBS World The timing of the post and its contents clearly reference Thaksin, as Dr Warong remarked it was unsurprising someone might linger in such a suite. Public reaction was swift, with the video quickly gaining internet traction and spurring intense debate. The online commentary has been biting, with many questioning the ethics behind such extravagant accommodations while purportedly serving severe medical needs. One viewer commented, "Looks more like a palace than a patient room," while another user questioned the inequity, asking whether others under similar conditions could expect such treatment. This incident has ignited fresh discussion around the privileges allocated to influential figures, especially when taxpayer money is involved. Dr Warong's exposé raises pressing questions about transparency and fairness in public institutions. While the video's impact grows, the exact implications for the Police General Hospital and the practices it represents remain uncertain. Picture courtesy of Dr Warong Dechgitvigrom Facebook Picture courtesy of Dr Warong Dechgitvigrom Facebook Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai PBS World 2025-05-16

Tourism Shock: Thailand's Visitor Numbers See Alarming Plunge Picture courtesy of Xinhua Thailand's tourism sector faces a pressing situation as foreign arrivals nosedive, with both leisure and corporate travellers dwindling. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360809-tourism-shock-thailands-visitor-numbers-see-alarming-plunge/

Picture courtesy of Xinhua Thailand's tourism sector faces a pressing situation as foreign arrivals nosedive, with both leisure and corporate travellers dwindling. Former TAT governor Yuthasak Supasorn stresses urgent reform is needed to revive the industry and proposes the creation of new destinations to attract higher-quality visitors. Visitor numbers have dropped 1% as of May 11, with particular declines from key markets like China, Hong Kong, and South Korea. Yuthasak notes China, typically providing 900,000 visitors per month, now sees daily arrivals plummet to 13,739, contributing to the overall drop of daily foreign entries to under 60,000. Additionally, the MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions) segment recorded a 15% international market decline, with revenue shrinking by 21% in the first quarter of 2025. Southeast Asian markets, excluding Myanmar, similarly report a reduction in arrivals. The former TAT head underscores a need to rebuild trust and elevate Thailand's hospitality. Recently, the World Economic Forum ranked Thailand 47th in the Travel & Tourism Development index, noted as the sharpest decline regionally, stressing the decline in safety and security. Competitorial strengths in these areas highlight the nation's need for improvement and diversification towards new offerings. Yuthasak advocates for attracting high-spending tourists, focusing on health, wellness, and business travel mingled with leisure as a strategy. The emphasis lies on transitioning from a demand-driven to a supply-driven approach, crafting high-value tourism products and stimulating satisfaction to distribute tourism income fairly among communities. Implementing these strategies is seen as pivotal to halting the decline and restoring Thailand's standing as a premier tourism destination. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-05-16

Thai Authorities Seize Smuggled Orangutans Picture courtesy of Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation The Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation of Thailand, alongside the Royal Thai Police's Natural Resources and Environmental Crime Division, has successfully intercepted an illegal wildlife trade operation, seizing two orangutans. The captured primates hold an estimated value exceeding 250,000 baht. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360805-thai-authorities-seize-smuggled-orangutans/

Picture courtesy of Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation The Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation of Thailand, alongside the Royal Thai Police's Natural Resources and Environmental Crime Division, has successfully intercepted an illegal wildlife trade operation, seizing two orangutans. The captured primates hold an estimated value exceeding 250,000 baht. On 15th May 2025, Director-General Attapol Charoenchansa received information from Mr Naruephon Thipmonta, head of the Forest Protection and Fire Control Office, about the successful takedown of a protected wildlife smuggling ring involving orangutans. The operation, initiated on 12th May 2025, saw collaboration between police and an anonymous informant, who uncovered a network engaged in the illicit trade of protected animals. Arrangements were made to purchase an orangutan for 255,000 baht, with a scheduled exchange at a petrol station in Lat Phrao, Bangkok. Picture courtesy of Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation Upon receiving intelligence, enforcement teams, including the head of the National Park Rangers' special operations team, crime intelligence centre, and police division, moved to arrest the suspects. A 47-year-old man was taken into custody, with two orangutans and two plastic containers used for transport confiscated. Authorities determined the actions violated the 2019 Wildlife Preservation and Protection Act, specifically possessing controlled wildlife without a permit, punishable by up to a year in prison or a fine up to 100,000 baht. The suspect was transferred to investigators for legal processing. The seized orangutans, along with the equipment, have been entrusted to the wildlife health management unit for proper care. The police and conservation officials are pursuing further investigation to identify additional members of the illegal trade network. This operation aligns with the policies of Minister Varawut Silpa-archa, advocating stringent measures against illegal wildlife trading and poaching, extending from online markets to cross-border smuggling activities. Orangutans, an endangered species listed under the CITES convention, are threatened by illegal trade, posing significant risks to biodiversity and ecosystem stability. The public is urged to report wildlife crimes via the 24-hour park protection hotline, 1362. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation 2025-05-16

Nakhon Pathom Temple Abbot in Hot Water: 300 Million Baht Embezzlement Shock File photo courtesy of THai PBS World The revered abbot of Rai Khing Temple in Nakhon Pathom, Phra Dhamvachiranuwat, faces serious accusations as a warrant is issued for his arrest. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360791-nakhon-pathom-temple-abbot-in-hot-water-300-million-baht-embezzlement-shock/