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FILE photo courtesy: Siam Rath Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has assured the public that the Thai government will not impose any undue influence over the military. This assurance follows the proposal of a controversial bill by Pheu Thai MP Prayuth Siripanich, aiming to amend the Defence Ministry Administration Act. The bill seeks to curb military coups by allowing the cabinet to approve the appointment of generals recommended by a specific committee, which includes the defence minister and armed forces chiefs. While the intent is to bolster democratic processes, the proposal has stirred significant debate in the Thai political arena. Critics, including coalition partners like the Bhumjaithai and United Thai Nation (UTN) parties and the opposition Palang Pracharath Party (PPRP), argue that this measure could lead to political overreach into military affairs. Observers worry that the proposal could also strain relations between Pheu Thai and the military, an institution known for past interventions in Thai political life through coups. Prime Minister Paetongtarn was quick to emphasise that harmony and cooperation are paramount, stating, "The government today does not aim to meddle with military matters." She highlighted the importance of collective efforts for any national development and reassured that Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai maintains strong ties with military leadership, fostering stability instead of friction. Though the bill is associated with the ruling Pheu Thai Party, Paetongtarn distanced the party from the proposal, saying MP Prayuth is at liberty to retract the draft if resistance persists. Prayuth has already expressed a willingness to pull the proposal for revision if opposition continues. Defence Minister Phumtham further distanced Pheu Thai from the bill, clarifying it is not party-endorsed. He acknowledged the importance of dialogue and expressed openness towards improving the proposal before re-submitting it to parliament. The bill is currently undergoing public consultation until January 1, with feedback revealing a divided stance—72.47% against and 27.53% in favour out of over 27,000 respondents. Despite the legislative intentions, some experts—including Nattawut Saikuar, an advisor to the Prime Minister—remain sceptical about the bill's efficacy in preventing coups. Saikuar underscored that as long as public sentiment remains divided, and some continue to endorse military takeovers as a resolution, legal deterrents alone may prove inadequate. The Pheu Thai-led government, faced with delicate balancing of governance and military relations, continues to engage in dialogue, striving for a democratic, peaceful path forward. This ongoing discourse reflects a broader narrative of Thailand's quest for stability amid its complex political landscape, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-12-12

Used Condoms Found Near Railway Station, Raising Concerns About the Family-Friendly Image of Pattaya By Aim Tanakorn Pattaya — Used condoms found near a railway station in Pattaya have raised concerns about public health and the city’s image as a family-friendly destination. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345975-used-condoms-found-near-railway-station-raising-concerns-over-pattayas-image/

By Aim Tanakorn Pattaya — Used condoms found near a railway station in Pattaya have raised concerns about public health and the city’s image as a family-friendly destination. On December 11th, concerned residents reported to The Pattaya News that they found several used condoms scattered on the ground near a pile of railway pillows at the Pattaya Railway Station’s multipurpose area. The residents were concerned that the area could become a breeding ground for infectious diseases and negatively affect the city’s image as a family-friendly tourist destination, as the area is frequented by tourists. Upon inspection, The Pattaya News reporters found used condoms, wrappers, and tissues scattered across the ground and on the concrete railway pillows. The area is also very unsanitary, with the smell of decay and the presence of flies. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-12

Thai masseuse pleads for justice amid singer’s tragic death By Bob Scott Photo via ThaiRath The seasoned Thai masseuse entangled in a whirlpool of controversy following the untimely death of luk thung singer Chayada “Phing” Praohom in the heart of Udon Thani, appealed for justice. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345680-massage-parlour-visits-turn-fatal-singaporean-tourist-and-thai-singer-die/page/2/#findComment-19440877

High school student fatally stabs junior at Sattahip school By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A tragic incident unfolded in Sattahip, Chon Buri as police located a high school student from a prominent private school suspected of fatally stabbing a younger student. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345918-high-school-student-fatally-stabs-junior-at-sattahip-school/

Russian Tourist in Underwear Battles Thai Police in Phuket In a bizarre turn of events in Phuket, a well-loved destination among British holidaymakers, a Russian tourist found himself in a peculiar standoff with local authorities while clad in nothing but his underwear. The incident, which unfolded on a seemingly tranquil shopping street, has since captured significant attention online. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345958-russian-tourist-in-underwear-battles-thai-police-in-phuket-video/

Video screenshot In a bizarre turn of events in Phuket, a well-loved destination among British holidaymakers, a Russian tourist found himself in a peculiar standoff with local authorities while clad in nothing but his underwear. The incident, which unfolded on a seemingly tranquil shopping street, has since captured significant attention online. The tumultuous episode was captured in a video that's quickly gone viral on X, formerly known as Twitter, amassing over 200,000 views. The footage begins with Thai police escorting the forthright tourist, who's accompanied by a woman and children. The serene backdrop sharply contrasts the chaotic scene that ensues. Without warning, the tourist, who appears agitated, lashes out at officers, transforming the street into a flurry of activity. His family watches in distraught silence, broken only by the cries of one of the children. The situation escalates as the man, muscular and barefoot, begins confronting officers with a mix of shadow boxing and bewildering theatrics. Despite efforts by the officers to subdue him, including one policeman's attempt to mount his back, the tourist forcefully resists capture. What's perhaps most unexpected is when, mid-fracas, he charges towards a lone officer, prompting the policeman to make a tactical retreat. The spectacle ends abruptly as the tourist's companion rushes towards the unfolding melee. Speculation and humour have since erupted on social media regarding the video's authenticity, with one user quipping it resembled an '80s action film scene'. Local police have yet to release an official statement regarding the circumstances leading up to the incident or its aftermath. However, such events, while rare, underscore the unpredictable nature of policing tourist hotspots like Phuket—a city known for blending relaxation and vibrant night-life. Video screenshot As discussions swirl online, with comments ranging from amusement to concern, this unusual altercation highlights the sometimes-unexpected challenges faced by law enforcement in popular tourist destinations. Moreover, it serves as a reminder of the importance of respecting local laws and customs, even on holiday. While the specifics of the incident remain unclear, it's a vivid illustration of the colourful, occasionally chaotic interactions possible in bustling international hubs. For now, viewers remain curious and entertained, awaiting further details on this peculiar fracas, reported Daily Mail Online. -- 2024-12-12

to continue: Thailand Live Thursday 12 December 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1345944-thailand-live-thursday-12-december-2024/

Picture courtesy: Daily News In a planned sting operation, Thai tourist police successfully apprehended a 21-year-old Nigerian national, known as Mr John, on charges of offering sexual services via an online platform. Nigerian Man Arrested Over Online Prostitution Scheme Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345931-nigerian-man-arrested-over-online-prostitution-scheme/

Thai PM Dismisses Fears Over Anti-Coup Legislation Plans Picture courtesy: Royal Thai Government Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra today firmly refuted allegations that her government intends to meddle in military affairs through proposed anti-coup legislation. Speaking at a press conference in Government House, Paetongtarn, who heads the Pheu Thai-led coalition, insisted the planned law is not an attempt to interfere but a necessary step for democratic stability. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345936-thai-pm-dismisses-fears-over-anti-coup-legislation-plans/

Picture courtesy: Royal Thai Government Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra today firmly refuted allegations that her government intends to meddle in military affairs through proposed anti-coup legislation. Speaking at a press conference in Government House, Paetongtarn, who heads the Pheu Thai-led coalition, insisted the planned law is not an attempt to interfere but a necessary step for democratic stability. Background to this brewing controversy traces back to historical events. Paetongtarn's father, Thaksin Shinawatra, a former Prime Minister, was ousted in a 2006 coup, and her aunt, Yingluck Shinawatra, suffered a similar fate in 2014. These oustings continue to shadow Thai politics, fuelling the discourse around military influence and the need for civilian supremacy. At the heart of the current debate is a draft bill proposed by Pheu Thai MP Prayut Siripanich aimed at reforming military hierarchy. The legislation proposes that the Prime Minister chairs the Defence Council, a role traditionally held by the Defence Minister. Furthermore, it advocates for a civilian cabinet's oversight on military promotions, moving towards more transparent governance within the military framework. Currently, the Defence Council is helmed by the Defence Minister and comprises senior military figures, including the chiefs of the army, navy, and air force. This structure has long been seen as a bastion of military autonomy, often operating independently of civilian oversight. A unique feature of this legislation is its protection for military personnel who refuse to partake in coups. It aims to shield them from disciplinary or criminal proceedings should they disobey orders threatening democratic governance. This aspect of the bill seeks to empower soldiers to prioritise the nation's democratic processes over potentially illegal commands. However, the proposal has met resistance from within the coalition. The ultra-conservative Bhumjaithai party and the military-backed Ruam Thai Sang Chart party, both holding significant sway in the government, have voiced strong objections. Concerns centre around fears of diminishing military independence and historical wariness of civilian overreach. Despite the internal pushback, Paetongtarn's administration appears committed to advancing the bill, reflected by wide support from Pheu Thai and People's MPs. This move is seen as part of a broader agenda to curtail military power in political affairs, a sensitive subject in Thailand's turbulent history of coups. Critics allege that the legislation could be politically motivated, aiming to secure the Shinawatra family's legacy by reducing military power, which has historically opposed them. Yet, supporters argue it is essential for ensuring democratic resilience and preventing future political instability, reported Thai Newsroom. In currency conversion, the financial cost of implementing such legislation, yet uncalculated, is expected to remain a topic of concern and debate, akin to the complexities involved in fostering genuine democratic reform. -- 2024-12-11

Nigerian Man Arrested Over Online Prostitution Scheme Picture courtesy: Daily News In a planned sting operation, Thai tourist police successfully apprehended a 21-year-old Nigerian national, known as Mr John, on charges of offering sexual services via an online platform. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345931-nigerian-man-arrested-over-online-prostitution-scheme/

Picture courtesy: Daily News In a planned sting operation, Thai tourist police successfully apprehended a 21-year-old Nigerian national, known as Mr John, on charges of offering sexual services via an online platform. This arrest unfolded on 11th December 2024, near the Thephasadin Stadium within Bangkok’s Pathum Wan district. Mr John allegedly priced his services at 12,000 baht, asserting this was merely to supplement his funds while visiting the country. The operation was initiated following information that Mr John (not his real name) was using a public website to advertise illicit services. Acting on this intelligence, detectives crafted a plan using an undercover operative. The agent contacted Mr John through the Line messaging app, setting up a meeting at the stadium to negotiate the terms. Once the payment was discreetly exchanged, officers who had been monitoring the situation swiftly moved in, arresting Mr John and seizing his mobile phone, which contained incriminating evidence of the discussions. During questioning, processed with the aid of an English-speaking interpreter, Mr John disclosed that he had arrived in Thailand as a tourist via Suvarnabhumi Airport on 21st October 2024. His stay was permitted until 19th December 2024 under his tourist visa. Mr John admitted to offering sexual services online, claiming it was a side venture to earn extra money. He has since been charged with offences related to soliciting prostitution and has been remanded to the Pathum Wan police station where further legal proceedings will be pursued. This incident serves as a reminder of the vigilance required in monitoring and curbing illicit activities in the digital age. The authorities reaffirm their commitment to maintaining law and order, ensuring Thailand remains a safe destination for genuine tourists. Further investigations may follow to determine if Mr John was part of a larger network or acting independently. The police urge the public to report any suspicious activity as they continue to clamp down on illegal operations that tarnish the country's reputation, reported Daily News. -- 2024-12-11

British man’s flight home to recovery after horror crash in Thailand by Bob Scott Picture of Andy Davis courtesy of the Davis family A British man who suffered life-changing injuries while working in Thailand has returned home after an appeal raised nearly £20,000 (880,000 baht) for a medical repatriation flight. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345886-british-man’s-flight-home-to-recovery-after-horror-crash-in-thailand/

Picture of Andy Davis courtesy of the Davis family by Bob Scott A British man who suffered life-changing injuries while working in Thailand has returned home after an appeal raised nearly £20,000 (880,000 baht) for a medical repatriation flight. Andy Davis from Stone, Staffordshire, had his left leg amputated and was hospitalised with a shattered pelvis and torn bladder, following a car crash on an island off Krabi last month. The 33 year old British man’s friend Mike Pugh, set up a Go Fund Me page to raise money towards bringing Davis back to the UK. He is now being cared for at the Royal Stoke University Hospital and is “very happy to be home,” however he continues to fight an infection and is waiting for further surgery on his pelvis and bladder. Nearly 500 people donated to the fundraiser which ultimately led to Davis being able to fly home earlier than expected. Pugh said the donations contributed towards the £28,000 medical repatriation costs, with Davis’ family paying the remaining amount. Picture of Andy Davis courtesy of the Davis family He said his friend’s prompt return to the UK “essentially has saved his life as he could have started to deteriorate if he was still out in Thailand.” Davis started teaching English as a foreign language in 2016, travelling to Thailand, Peru, Mexico, and Ecuador. Most recently, he had been working to set up teaching positions for other Brits to travel and teach English as a foreign language. Pugh, who visited his friend at Royal Stoke on Saturday, said the 33 year old was “significantly better” and feeling “much more positive,” since returning home. Davis is still fighting an infection which is delaying further treatment but he has been able to start physiotherapy, said Pugh. “He was over the moon, because he had been able to sit up in bed and turn to put his other foot on the ground.” Pugh added that it was likely his friend would remain in hospital over Christmas while he awaited further surgery. ORIGINAL STORY: British teacher’s tale takes a ‘Krabi’ turn after leg loss in crash A British teacher is at the centre of a heartbreaking tale after he lost a leg in a dreadful accident in Thailand. Andy Davis, from Walton in Stone, Staffordshire, is fighting for his life after a catastrophic road smash on a serene island near Krabi on November 8. The 33 year old, who has dedicated his life to setting up teaching gigs for British teachers keen to spread the English language abroad, is now facing a gruelling battle for recovery after a horrific crash. Davis’ selfless work has touched countless lives but it’s his own life that hangs in the balance now. With injuries so severe his leg had to be amputated immediately, the Brit’s situation is dire. To add to his woes, he’s grappling with a shattered pelvis, an infection, and a torn bladder, leaving him in urgent need of several major surgeries. Rallying to Davis’ aid, his family have kicked off a heartfelt donation appeal. They need to gather a whopping £25,000 (1.1 million baht), and so far, the outpouring of generosity has amassed £11,500 (506,000 baht). The funds are crucial for life-saving surgeries and to transfer the injured British man from a small hospital in Krabi to a more equipped facility in Bangkok. His family stress that without this move, his chances of survival dwindle, as he battles multiple infections that could lead to even more amputations. Life-saving On their GoFundMe page, his family made a plea for help, reported the Shropshire Star. “These surgeries will be life-saving. For Andy, this transfer is urgent. It’s just the beginning of the daunting medical bills we’re facing, aiming to stabilise him before planning his journey back home. Your support could ensure Andy comes home safely.” Andy’s lifelong friend, Mike Pugh, shares just how dire the situation is. Describing his mate of 20 years as “incredibly laid back” and “a genuinely nice guy,” Pugh highlights Davis’ inability to sort insurance or healthcare, as he drifts in and out of consciousness. Pugh believes the support flooding in is a testament to his friend’s character, with donations pouring from across the globe, proving the immense impact he made as he taught in Thailand, Peru, Mexico, and Ecuador since 2016. For those touched by Davis’ story, donations can be made at gofund.me/f7fb938b. It’s a race against time to bring the injured Brit back to the UK, and every bit of assistance counts. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-11

Northern Thailand warms as southern provinces face heavy rain by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Daniel Lerman, Unsplash A weather forecast from the Thai Meteorological Department today highlights drastic changes across the country. The northern regions face rising temperatures, while the south prepares for heavy downpours affecting nine provinces, with sea waves exceeding 2 metres. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345884-northern-thailand-warms-as-southern-provinces-face-heavy-rain/

Picture courtesy of Daniel Lerman, Unsplash by Bright Choomanee A weather forecast from the Thai Meteorological Department today highlights drastic changes across the country. The northern regions face rising temperatures, while the south prepares for heavy downpours affecting nine provinces, with sea waves exceeding 2 metres. The current weather patterns indicate that a moderate high-pressure system or cool air mass covering upper Thailand and the South China Sea is weakening. Consequently, the northern regions of Thailand continue to experience cool weather with morning fog, and temperatures are expected to rise by 1 to 3 degrees Celsius. The peaks and mountains remain cold to very cold, prompting residents to take precautions for their health amidst changing weather conditions. Additionally, those travelling through foggy areas are advised to exercise caution. Meanwhile, the northeastern monsoon affecting the Gulf of Thailand and the southern region is showing signs of weakening, leading to a decrease in rainfall in the lower southern areas. However, moderate to strong winds persist over the Gulf of Thailand, with waves reaching 1 to 2 metres and exceeding 2 metres in areas with thunderstorms. Fishermen in these areas are advised to navigate with care and avoid sailing in stormy weather. TMD has issued a warning for a temperature drop of six degrees and heavy to very heavy rainfall. From tomorrow< December 12, through the following five days, another wave of relatively strong high-pressure air from China will extend over upper Thailand and the South China Sea, resulting in lower temperatures and strong winds. Concurrently, the northeastern monsoon over the Gulf of Thailand and the south will intensify, accompanied by a low-pressure cell moving through these regions. This will lead to increased rainfall in the south, with some areas experiencing heavy to very heavy rain. Weather forecast Dust and air quality in the upper regions of Thailand are expected to improve, remaining within good to moderate levels due to stronger winds and better air circulation. The weather forecast for various regions from 6am today to 6am tomorrow is as follows: The northern region will be cool in the morning, with temperatures ranging from 19 to 21 degrees Celsius at the lowest and 32 to 34 degrees Celsius at the highest. The mountain tops will be cold, with minimum temperatures between 8 and 15 degrees Celsius. Winds are expected from the east at speeds of 5 to 15 kilometres per hour. In the northeastern region, cool weather with morning fog is anticipated, and temperatures will rise by 1 to 3 degrees Celsius. The lowest temperatures will be between 18 and 21 degrees Celsius, and the highest between 32 and 34 degrees Celsius. The mountain tops will be cool to cold, with minimum temperatures ranging from 12 to 16 degrees Celsius. Northeasterly winds will blow at speeds of 10 to 25 kilometres per hour. The central region will experience cool weather with morning fog, and temperatures will increase by 1 to 3 degrees Celsius. The lowest temperatures will be 22 to 23 degrees Celsius, and the highest will reach 33 to 34 degrees Celsius. Northeasterly winds will move at speeds of 10 to 20 kilometres per hour. Fog and clouds In the eastern region, partial cloudiness and morning fog are expected, with temperatures rising by 1 to 2 degrees Celsius. The lowest temperatures will range from 21 to 25 degrees Celsius, and the highest from 33 to 34 degrees Celsius. Northeasterly winds will reach speeds of 15 to 35 kilometres per hour, with sea waves about 1 metre high and 1 to 2 metres offshore. The southern region (east coast) will see thunderstorms in 30% of the area, particularly in the provinces of Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phatthalung, Songkhla, Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwat. The lowest temperatures will be 23 to 25 degrees Celsius, and the highest 29 to 34 degrees Celsius. Northeasterly winds will range from 15 to 30 kilometres per hour, with sea waves about 1 metre high and 1 to 2 metres in areas with thunderstorms. The southern region (west coast) will have thunderstorms in 20% of the area, mostly in Krabi, Trang, and Satun provinces. The lowest temperatures will be 23 to 25 degrees Celsius, and the highest 31 to 32 degrees Celsius. Easterly winds will blow at speeds of 15 to 30 kilometres per hour, with sea waves below 1 metre and over 1 metre offshore, with waves exceeding 2 metres in areas with thunderstorms, reported KhaoSod. In Bangkok and its vicinity, partial cloudiness with morning fog is expected, and temperatures will rise by 1 to 2 degrees Celsius. The lowest temperatures will range from 24 to 25 degrees Celsius, and the highest from 33 to 35 degrees Celsius. Northeasterly winds will reach speeds of 10 to 20 kilometres per hour. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-11

Busted in Bangkok: Undie-cover cops quash gay shindig rumours by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Amarin TV In an eyebrow-raising update from Bangkok’s bustling Sukhumvit 31 stretch, police quashed rumours of a cover-up in an outrageous gay underwear bash that involved drugs but no glittering celebrity attendees. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345880-busted-in-bangkok-undie-cover-cops-quash-gay-shindig-rumours/

Picture courtesy of Amarin TV by Bob Scott In an eyebrow-raising update from Bangkok’s bustling Sukhumvit 31 stretch, police quashed rumours of a cover-up in an outrageous gay underwear bash that involved drugs but no glittering celebrity attendees. Police Major General Wittawat Chinkam, Metropolitan Police Bureau 5 chief, yesterday, December 10, convened a nearly two-hour session to dissect the scandal involving a group of gay men who threw a drug-fuelled shindig at a hotel in the capital city Maj. Wittawat insists that despite the buzz, the party left no evidence destroyed or CCTV footage wiped, as previously rumoured. Officers have bagged all crucial clues, with full cooperation from the hotel, who’ve pointed out the precise locations of wild antics. In a forensic frenzy, even leftover rubbish was seized for scrutiny. Yet, there’s more work to be done, the audacious downtown drug jamboree has several threads to follow, including the source of the narcotics. Early probes indicate that the party pals toted drugs and sold them to spice up the scene but no scandalous bedroom romps were found when the law swooped in. Quashing whispers of police involvement, officers clarified that despite one suspect sharing a surname with a top-tier officer, there’s no familial link. And rest assured, the soiree had zero ties to celebs or the glitterati. Dubbed the trio.bd.party, this merry band comprises three gay groups who rotate hosting duties, ensuring select guests and venues. Attendees waltz in free of charge, as organisers foot the bill, barring the eye-watering room cost of 30,000 baht a night reported Amarin TV. The police chief has warned local enforcers that drug-fuelled bashes are moving from nightlife hotspots to plush hotel rooms in a sly bid to dodge discovery. Officers are on high alert, urging a crackdown on similar high-end hijinks in posh settings. Pictures courtesy of Amarin TV ORIGINAL STORY: 124 gay participants arrested at underwear drug party in Bangkok hotel Officers from Thong Lo Police Station arrested 124 gay men and women, including doctors and background actors, at an underwear drug party held in a hotel room in Bangkok yesterday. Police were alerted by a witness who reported suspicious activity after observing a large number of Thai and foreign men entering a room on the 20th floor of a hotel in the Wattana district of Bangkok at approximately 1.30am, December 8. Acting on this tip-off, officers conducted a raid on the hotel room. The party reportedly catered to gay participants, with attendance requiring prior registration. All attendees were instructed to strip down to their underwear upon arrival. When officers arrived, they encountered a worker hired to act as a receptionist, managing the list of registered guests in front of the lift in the hotel lobby. Upon entering the room, police found a group of Thai and foreign gay men and women, as reported. The attendees, dressed in underwear, were dancing to loud music and consuming alcohol. Officers proceeded to search each partygoer and discovered drugs in the possession of some attendees. The substances included ecstasy and ketamine. All party participants were subsequently taken to the police station for further drug testing. According to a report from Channel 7, a total of 124 people attended the party. Of these, 31 were found in possession of drugs, 66 tested positive for drug use, and the remaining 27 were free of any illegal substances. Those who tested negative for drugs will have their details recorded by the police, while those who tested positive will be sent for rehabilitation. Individuals found in possession of drugs will face legal proceedings at Bangkok South District Court and Bangkok South Criminal Court. Penalties for drug possession will vary depending on the quantity of drugs found. Channel 7 also reported that some attendees included doctors, who should be well aware of the harmful effects and legal implications of drug use, as well as background actors from a popular boys love series. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-11

Tourism Authority of Thailand targets Niche Tourism Boom in 2025 File photo courtesy: Wikipedia In a strategic move to capitalise on the high-end travel market, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is banking on four niche sectors—wellness, luxury experiences, sports tourism, and honeymoons—for a prosperous 2025. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345875-tourism-authority-of-thailand-targets-niche-tourism-boom-in-2025/

File photo courtesy: Wikipedia In a strategic move to capitalise on the high-end travel market, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is banking on four niche sectors—wellness, luxury experiences, sports tourism, and honeymoons—for a prosperous 2025. Propelled by a global shift towards personalised and luxurious travel experiences, the Thai tourism agency is crafting exclusive events and experiences to cater to an affluent clientele with substantial spending power. Chiravadee Khunsub, deputy governor for tourism products and business at the TAT, highlighted the increasing interest in high-value travel experiences, a trend mirrored by global figures. Reports from Allied Market Research place the collective potential of these markets at a staggering 31 billion baht globally back in 2019, with projections surging to an impressive 390 billion baht by 2027. Closer to home, luxury tourism in Thailand amassed between 60 and 70 billion baht in 2023, with expectations of an annual growth rate of 8-10%, signifying a robust upward trajectory for this sector. Recent data suggests that tourists drawn to these four markets predominantly visited five key destinations: Bangkok, Phuket, Pattaya, Krabi, and Samui. Their average expenditure per person per trip was estimated at 77,693 baht, translating to approximately 6,171 baht per day. Thailand’s diverse landscapes, coupled with its top-tier luxury accommodations and renowned hospitality, make it an appealing proposition for such discerning travellers. Reflecting this demand, establishments graded four stars or higher have already increased their room rates by over 20-30%, noted Chiravadee. Beyond accommodation, the TAT is eager to elevate Thailand's international profile by hosting grand events—from concerts and sports events to fashion shows—in collaboration with luxury operators across the nation. Thailand is already reaping the benefits of its niche marketing strategy. A recent trail running event, Hoka Chiang Mai Thailand by UTMB, drew over 7,000 visitors, contributing 800 million baht to the local economy, and 70% of those attendees were international visitors. Similarly, the Amazing Thailand Marathon Bangkok 2024 featured Kenyan marathon legend Eliud Kipchoge, pulling in over 33,000 participants and generating approximately 660 million baht. In aiming for the future, TAT intends to spotlight signature Thai festivities such as Chinese New Year, Songkran, and Loy Krathong, boosting their international appeal. Sustainability is at the forefront of this initiative, with the agency committed to promoting eco-friendly practices like the 'Krabi Model,' which incorporates green events and skills training for tourism services, catering to an ever-growing environmentally-conscious demographic. Through these initiatives, Thailand is set on a path not only to rebound from past tourism slumps but to position itself as a premier destination for travellers seeking opulence and unique experiences, all while advocating for sustainability and cultural appreciation, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-12-11

Beauty queen scammed out of 4 million baht by cyber criminals by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Thairath Charlotte Austin, a beauty queen affiliated with Miss Grand Thailand, has reportedly fallen victim to a scam by a cybercriminal gang, resulting in a loss of 4 million baht. The perpetrators allegedly coerced her into a continuous 24-hour video call. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345872-beauty-queen-scammed-out-of-4-million-baht-by-cyber-criminals/

Picture courtesy of Thairath by Bright Choomanee Charlotte Austin, a beauty queen affiliated with Miss Grand Thailand, has reportedly fallen victim to a scam by a cybercriminal gang, resulting in a loss of 4 million baht. The perpetrators allegedly coerced her into a continuous 24-hour video call. The Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau (CCIB) is currently investigating the incident but has not yet been able to contact Charlotte directly. Police are awaiting her formal complaint to proceed with legal actions while urging her to provide any information about the scammers’ accounts and phone numbers. The scam involved a familiar tactic where the criminals posed as cyber police officers. They deceived Charlotte into believing her name was used to open a bank account linked to illegal activities, thus pressuring her to transfer money for supposed verification purposes. Despite the ongoing attempts to reach Charlotte, it is believed she may be preoccupied with personal matters, reported KhaoSod. Police Lieutenant General Trirong Phiwpan, acting head of the Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau, stated that upon hearing the news from the media, they immediately ordered Police Major General Chatchapantakan Klaiklueang, head of CCIB Division 1, to investigate the case. In related news, a popular Twitter personality with over 30,000 followers was recently apprehended for impersonating a relative to swindle 50,000 baht. She was caught after returning from Malaysia and claimed she only provided OTP codes for small payments. The arrest took place on December 5, as Pramote Chanbungkaew, head of Phetkasem Police Station, and his team apprehended 27 year old Mathurin, from Maha Sarakham province. She was arrested under a warrant issued by Thonburi Criminal Court on November 25, at the Sadao Immigration Checkpoint in Songkhla, upon her return from Malaysia. The incident began on April 22, when a 20 year old victim named Natorn reported to the investigators at Phetkasem Police Station. He claimed that a woman, posing as his relative, called him using the number 061-980-xxxx. -- 2024-12-11

Yingluck's Return Like Thaksin Requires Jail Time, Says Wissanu Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Wisanu Krue-ngam has commented on the possibility of former Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra returning to Thailand, stating that her return would be subject to the legal process, similar to her brother, Thaksin Shinawatra, who has already been incarcerated. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345870-yinglucks-return-like-thaksin-requires-jail-time-says-wissanu/

Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Wisanu Krue-ngam has commented on the possibility of former Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra returning to Thailand, stating that her return would be subject to the legal process, similar to her brother, Thaksin Shinawatra, who has already been incarcerated. On 10th December 2567, Visanu Krue-ngam, former Deputy Prime Minister, addressed media queries about Yingluck’s potential return. He noted that while she could come back, like Thaksin, it would involve a royal pardon process. Should she return and agree to imprisonment, the matter would then fall under the Department of Corrections once the court procedures are completed. Questions were raised about Yingluck’s health, unlike Thaksin who required hospitalisation. Visanu responded that as far as he knew, there were no reports of Yingluck being ill, while confirming that Thaksin has indeed served time in prison, albeit not under the harsher conditions typical of the public's imagination. Visanu emphasised that the process followed for Thaksin involved initial jail admission and standard procedures such as signing in, changing clothes, and medical checks before transfer to a detention facility, albeit one newly fitted with basic amenities like a shower. Regarding doubts about Thaksin's illness, Visanu cited medical assessments and ongoing legal discussions concerning the length of Thaksin's sentence, initially estimated at 11 years but later clarified to be 8 years after judicial consultation. On expectations for Yingluck's return next year, Visanu advised patience, indicating it would all depend on entering the legal and judicial system, and reiterated the necessity of abiding by the legal process upon her possible return, reported Thai Rath. -- 2024-12-11