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British man’s Thai-high’ trip goes up in smoke at Manchester customs by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of JustPark Another British man has been nabbed in a high-stakes arrest after being caught returning through Manchester Airport customs with two suitcases full of cannabis from Thailand. The alleged British drug mule, Ahmed Sohail, who claimed he went to Thailand to lose some weight, ended up losing much more than he bargained for. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345728-british-man’s-thai-high’-trip-goes-up-in-smoke-at-manchester-customs/

Picture courtesy of JustPark by Bob Scott Another British man has been nabbed in a high-stakes arrest after being caught returning through Manchester Airport customs with two suitcases full of cannabis from Thailand. The alleged British drug mule, Ahmed Sohail, who claimed he went to Thailand to lose some weight, ended up losing much more than he bargained for. Stopped by eagle-eyed Border Force officials, the 26 year old drug trafficker was carrying two suitcases that piqued their suspicion. While Sohail insisted he had been on an indulgent eight-day jaunt in Bangkok, a scan revealed his luggage contained not just holiday mementoes but 40 kilogrammes of the class B drug along with a crafty Apple tracking device. Prosecutor Sophie Kenny detailed the find. “After his arrest on August 21 this year, x-ray machines were used to search the suitcases. Within both of them were multiple vacuum-sealed packages of a herbal substance. It was tested and found to be cannabis.” Manchester Evening News reported that Sohail confessed to being caught in a web spun by others and admitted to a role in the dodgy operation without any financial gain. Despite the gravity of the situation, he received a suspended sentence. In his defence, barrister Benjamin Kaufman argued that Sohail was merely a pawn, manipulated by more seasoned criminals. “He played a limited function. He appears to have been taken advantage of by those more criminally sophisticated than him.” Kaufman added that Sohail was deeply worried about his mother’s stage 4 cancer diagnosis. Picture of Manchester Airport courtesy of Business Traveller Judge Suzanna Goddard KC, handing him an 18-month suspended sentence, described him as “intelligent but foolish and naïve.” “In life you are faced with choices and in the future, you need to make the right choice.” Sohail, from Cargate Walk, Manchester, must now complete 200 hours of unpaid work and undergo 10 days of rehabilitation activity requirements. Sohail’s drug bust is not an isolated case. There has been several similar high profile cases of British nationals being apprehended trying to smuggles cannabis through Manchester Airport. A British dad of three late last month was sentenced to two years behind bars for an audacious attempt to smuggle nearly £100,000 (4.4 million baht) worth of cannabis from Thailand. The 42 year old British man, gripped by grief and desperation after the death of his girlfriend, confessed he took the illicit gamble in hopes of using the cash to reunite with his estranged children. In another related case last month, a down-and-out drug mule took a gamble to clear his debt to his own mother – and lost big-time at Manchester Airport. Dean Pharoah, who owed cash to his mum, tried to smuggle over £200,000 (approximately 8 million baht) worth of cannabis into the UK after a holiday in Thailand. But UK Border Force officers had their suspicions and swooped as he passed through the Nothing to Declare channel, putting an end to his high-stakes plan. Meanwhile, Netflix star Olga Bednarska incredibly escaped a long prison sentence despite being nabbed at Manchester Airport smuggling cannabis worth £150,000 (6.75 million baht) through customs. The star of Netflix’s hit reality show Too Hot to Handle, found herself entangled in a scandalous drug-smuggling affair after Manchester Airport customs officers intercepted the 27 year old, as she returned from Thailand, and uncovered nearly 40 kilogrammes of cannabis stashed inside her luggage. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-09

124 gay participants arrested at underwear drug party in Bangkok hotel by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ ดาวแปดแฉก 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. Photo via Facebook/ สถานีตำรวจนครบาลทองหล่อ 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. Photo via Facebook/ สถานีตำรวจนครบาลทองหล่อ 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. Photo via Facebook/ สถานีตำรวจนครบาลทองหล่อ Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-09

Thai Floods Unleash Chaos: Expert Blames Human Actions Picture courtesy: Thai Rath The devastating floods sweeping across Thailand have claimed over 50 lives in the north this year and more than 25 recently in the south. According to Pianporn “Pai” Deetes, Southeast Asia Programme Director for International Rivers, human actions are significantly responsible for this catastrophe. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345714-thai-floods-unleash-chaos-expert-blames-human-actions/

Picture courtesy: Thai Rath The devastating floods sweeping across Thailand have claimed over 50 lives in the north this year and more than 25 recently in the south. According to Pianporn “Pai” Deetes, Southeast Asia Programme Director for International Rivers, human actions are significantly responsible for this catastrophe. Speaking out, Pianporn identifies deforestation, dam construction, and river encroachment as the leading culprits behind the devastation. The relentless clearing of forests, particularly for corn cultivation to feed livestock, not only drives flooding but also contributes to the seasonal PM2.5 haze blanketing northern Thailand. It’s a dire situation, leaving locals trapped in a state of "half flood, half haze,” as Pianporn remarks. Adding to the turmoil is illegal mining in Myanmar’s Shan State, which analyses reveal may reflect a surge in gold mining activities following Myanmar's political coup three years ago. The lack of a media or civil presence in the region shrouds such operations in secrecy, worsening the problem. “In Myanmar, there are fewer reports because journalism is absent, leaving room for activities like mining in the Mae Sai River’s upper reaches. These operations trigger ‘mud floods’ affecting both Mae Sai district in Chiang Rai and Myanmar’s Tachileik district,” highlights Pianporn. Sediments from deforestation pile onto communities, amplifying flood damage. In Mae Sai, recovery efforts are ongoing, with locals working tirelessly to clear mud from their homes. Additionally, upstream dam operations, particularly those on the Mekong River, exacerbate northern Thailand’s flooding. Recent rains in southern Yunnan, China, prompted dam water releases that impede floodwater drainage in areas like Chiang Rai, Pianporn explains. “The flood this year relates to dam operations on the Mekong because rainfall in southern Yunnan caused the dams to release water." Given the interconnected nature of these waterways, Pianporn urges collaboration among governments, including China, for effective water resource management. Another flood factor is encroachment along riverbanks. A historian informed Pianporn that parts of Chiang Rai, now settled, were historically river courses—unknown to many present-day residents. “I talked with a historian. My foundation’s office in Chiang Rai is actually on an ancient river course,” she recounts. Pianporn argues against flood walls, warning of potential failure and advocates for nature-based solutions like “sponge cities,” integrating urban spaces with natural water bodies. In some high-risk areas, relocating communities may be necessary but must be approached with fairness and inclusivity, ensuring those affected receive appropriate compensation. Addressing these challenges requires working with nature and bringing diverse stakeholders together. “The key is to understand the real problems, identify main factors, and engage a wide array of voices—experts, farmers, engineers, and urban residents,” emphasises Pianporn. Collective action and an inclusive dialogue among these parties are vital to crafting sustainable solutions to this ongoing crisis, she stresses, citing a report from the Bangkok Post. -- 2024-12-09

PM Paetongtarn to outline key policies in public address tomorrow by Ryan Turner PM Paetongtarn during her inauguration speech | Photo via @ingshin/X Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra is set to deliver a significant public address tomorrow, December 10, where she will highlight her Cabinet’s accomplishments over the past three months and underscore the importance of the government’s key policies for the upcoming year. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345713-pm-paetongtarn-to-outline-key-policies-in-public-address-tomorrow/

PM Paetongtarn during her inauguration speech | Photo via @ingshin/X by Ryan Turner Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra is set to deliver a significant public address tomorrow, December 10, where she will highlight her Cabinet’s accomplishments over the past three months and underscore the importance of the government’s key policies for the upcoming year. The address, titled 2025 Empowering Thais: A Real Possibility, will commence at 10am and will be broadcast live on NBT2HD, as well as streamed on the channel’s Facebook page. Key initiatives to be discussed include the digital money handout scheme, the village fund, and various economic stimulus measures, according to a post made by the PM on Facebook and reiterated on X yesterday. The address will take place at the National Broadcasting Services of Thailand (NBT) headquarters on Vibhavadi Rangsit Road, with around 500 guests expected to attend. Among those invited are Cabinet ministers, senior ministerial officials, department and division heads, provincial governors, military leaders, the national police chief, ministerial spokespersons, and heads of state enterprises. A recent Suan Dusit Poll has revealed that many Thais are eagerly anticipating more cash handouts and measures to alleviate living costs, which are often perceived as traditional new year gifts from the government, reported Bangkok Post. Digital wallet | Photo via Surachai Piraksa/Bangkok Post Pornpan Buathong, President of Suan Dusit Poll, commented on the findings, highlighting the extent to which the global economic situation is affecting people’s lives. “The impact of the sluggish economy now is holding back festive spending after the survey found that only 56.02% of poll respondents intended to travel over new year.” In other news, in a dramatic U-turn, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra pulled the plug on a proposal to crank up the value-added tax (VAT) following a storm of public outrage. The PM took to X (formerly Twitter) today, December 6, decisively posting: “No VAT adjustment to 15%.” This swift decision emerged from a huddle at Government House with Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira and her advisory team. The government found itself under fire after Pichai, who also serves as Deputy Prime Minister, floated the eyebrow-raising idea of spiking VAT from 7% to 15% on Tuesday. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-09

Monsoon system brings heavy rain to southern Thailand by Ryan Turner Photo via KhaoSod A new monsoon system is set to sweep across southern Thailand, bringing heavy rainfall to nine provinces. The Meteorological Department of Thailand (TMD) warned residents to be cautious of potential hazards due to the severe weather. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345711-monsoon-system-brings-heavy-rain-to-southern-thailand/

Photo via KhaoSod by Ryan Turner A new monsoon system is set to sweep across southern Thailand, bringing heavy rainfall to nine provinces. The Meteorological Department of Thailand (TMD) warned residents to be cautious of potential hazards due to the severe weather. Meanwhile, northern Thailand is experiencing a drop in temperature and strong winds. The latest forecast from the TMD indicates that a new cold air mass from China is spreading over upper Thailand and the South China Sea. This atmospheric condition is causing cooler weather, accompanied by strong winds, and a decrease in temperature by one to three degrees Celsius (°C). Particularly in the mountainous and highland areas, the weather is expected to be cold. The northeast monsoon covering the Gulf of Thailand and the southern region is gaining strength, resulting in heavy rain in some areas of the lower southern region. Air quality in upper Thailand is expected to improve as strong winds and good air circulation reduce the accumulation of dust and haze. There will be light rain in some parts of the upper region, with minimum temperatures ranging from 19 to 22°C and maximum temperatures between 31 and 33°C. The mountaintops will experience cold weather with minimum temperatures between eight and 15°C, and eastern winds will blow at speeds of five to 15 kilometres per hour (km/h). In the northeastern region, the morning will be cool with strong winds, and temperatures will slightly decrease, with minimum temperatures between 16 and 21°C and maximum temperatures from 30 to 32°C. The highlands will be cold, with minimum temperatures from nine to 15°C. Northeastern winds will have speeds of 10 to 30 km/h. Temperature drop The central region will also be cool in the morning with strong winds, and temperatures will drop slightly. Minimum temperatures will range from 21 to 23°C, and maximum temperatures will be between 30 and 32°C, with northeastern winds at speeds of 10 to 25 km/h. The eastern region will experience partly cloudy weather with strong winds and a slight temperature drop. Minimum temperatures will range from 21 to 24°C, and maximum temperatures from 33 to 35°C. Northeastern winds will blow at speeds of 15 to 30 km/h. The sea will have waves about 1 metre high, with offshore waves reaching 1 to 2 metres. In the southern region (east coast), thunderstorms are expected in 40% of the area, with heavy rain in some locations, particularly in the provinces of Nakhon Si Thammarat, Songkhla, Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwat. Minimum temperatures will range from 24 to 26°C, and maximum temperatures will be between 30 and 32°C. From Nakhon Si Thammarat upwards, northeastern winds will blow at speeds of 15 to 35 km/h, with the sea having waves 1 to 2 metres high, and waves exceeding 2 metres in stormy areas. From Songkhla downwards, northeastern winds will blow at speeds of 20 to 35 km/h, with the sea having waves about 2 metres high and exceeding 2 metres in stormy areas. The southern region (west coast) will experience thunderstorms in 30% of the area, mostly in the provinces of Phang Nga, Krabi, Trang, and Satun. Minimum temperatures will range from 23 to 25°C, and maximum temperatures will be between 32 and 33°C. Eastern winds will blow at speeds of 15 to 35 km/h, with the sea having waves about 1 metre high, and offshore waves reaching 1 to 2 metres. In stormy areas, waves will exceed 2 metres. Bangkok and its vicinity will have partly cloudy weather with strong winds and a slight temperature decrease. Minimum temperatures will range from 23 to 25°C, and maximum temperatures will be between 32 and 35°C. Northeastern winds will blow at speeds of 10 to 25 km/h. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-09

COVID-19 Severity Fades, But Virus Remains, says Dr. Yong Dr. Yong. File photo courtesy: NNT Professor Yong Poovorawan from Chulalongkorn University delivered an update on the current state of COVID-19, highlighting its evolution over time. While the pandemic has ended this year, the virus continues to persist. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345709-covid-19-severity-fades-but-virus-remains-says-dr-yong/

Dr. Yong. File photo courtesy: NNT Professor Yong Poovorawan from Chulalongkorn University delivered an update on the current state of COVID-19, highlighting its evolution over time. While the pandemic has ended this year, the virus continues to persist. Reflecting on the pandemic's journey, Professor Yong pointed out that the initial years saw high mortality rates and the need for stringent responses such as widespread vaccinations. With the development of immunity through vaccines and natural infections, the severity has now significantly reduced. He compared the progression with the 1918 Spanish flu pandemic, which initially caused millions of deaths but eventually evolved into a seasonal strain. Similarly, COVID-19 has transitioned from causing widespread pneumonia and filling ICU wards to becoming a more routine respiratory illness. Despite some criticisms that early responses were excessive given the milder current situation, Professor Yong argued that without those measures, the impact, especially in the early years, would have been catastrophic, potentially causing a 1% fatality rate akin to the Spanish flu, reported Naew Na Ultimately, COVID-19 remains with us, albeit in a less threatening form. Its journey underscores the importance of adapting health measures to the evolving threat while recognising that the virus, like many others, is unlikely to disappear entirely. -- 2024-12-09

Naked Russian man rescued by speedboat hero near Pattaya by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Expedia A naked and exhausted Russian man was dramatically rescued by a heroic speedboat driver headed to Koh Lan off the coast of Pattaya. The incident, which unfolded about six kilometres from Pattaya, grabbed headlines due to the man’s dire predicament. Pracharat Satsuk, a 34 year old speedboat operator, revealed how he stumbled upon the struggling swimmer during his regular route, ferrying around 20 foreign tourists to the beloved island hotspot of Koh Lan. The Russian was discovered adrift, visibly fatigued, in the choppy waters between Bali Hai Pier and Koh Lan. Spotting the man’s distress, Satsuk sprang into action, flinging a life buoy and carefully hauling him aboard. On the boat, Satsuk offered the man a towel and desperately-needed drinking water, attending to his immediate needs with compassion. “The bloke was knackered, absolutely wiped out. His body had cuts, probably from the salty water. Luckily, the current wasn’t strong. He wasn’t swept too far out. If he’d had worse luck, he could have been minced by the propellers.” The Russian later admitted to Satsuk and the captivated tourists that he’d ambitiously set off for a night-time swim from Pattaya with dreams of reaching Koh Lan. However, his stamina failed him, and he found himself stranded, unable to finish the swim. Picture of naked Russian man courtesy of Bangkok Post This gripping tale shines a spotlight on the perilous risks of attempting long-distance swims in open water without proper planning or support. Satsuk’s quick-thinking actions and the calm sea conditions were instrumental in averting what could have been a tragic outcome. This daring rescue serves as a stark reminder of the need for vigilance and readiness for those navigating the bustling waters around tourist hotspots such as Pattaya and Koh Lan. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-09

Thailand and UK Discuss Prospects for Free Trade Agreement Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Thailand's Commerce Minister, Phichai Naripatapan, recently held discussions with British Ambassador Mark Gooding to explore economic cooperation between Thailand and the United Kingdom. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345701-thailand-and-uk-discuss-prospects-for-free-trade-agreement/

Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Thailand's Commerce Minister, Phichai Naripatapan, recently held discussions with British Ambassador Mark Gooding to explore economic cooperation between Thailand and the United Kingdom. Central to their talks was the potential development of a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) aimed at boosting trade and investment ties between the two countries. Meeting earlier this month, Phichai and Gooding reaffirmed both nations' commitment to enhancing trade relationships through mechanisms such as the Joint Economic and Trade Committee (JETCO). These discussions aim to foster an improved business climate and facilitate trade and investment under the Enhanced Trade Partnership umbrella, covering key sectors like agriculture, tourism, and healthcare. Phichai also mentioned a memorandum of understanding signed in September with Douglas Alexander, the UK's Trade Minister, which supports hosting the second JETCO meeting in 2025. This meeting will coincide with celebrations of 170 years of diplomatic relations between Thailand and the UK. Furthermore, Thailand emphasised that strengthening their trade partnership could lay the groundwork for future FTA negotiations. An agreement could significantly enhance trade value and investment, a sentiment echoed by business communities in both countries. Lastly, Thailand expressed gratitude to the UK for supporting its potential membership in the OECD and committed to facilitating smoother foreign trade and investment processes within the country, particularly in targeted industries like electronics, data centres, and pharmaceuticals. Throughout the first ten months of 2023, the UK was Thailand's 22nd largest global trading partner and fourth within Europe, with a bilateral trade value of $5.54 billion. Thailand enjoyed a trade surplus, exporting significant goods like processed chicken and automotive parts to the UK, reported Thai Rath. -- 2024-12-09

Naked Russian Man Rescued from Sea Between Pattaya and Koh Larn Picture courtesy: FM91 A daring escapade took an unexpected turn for a Russian man found adrift and naked between Pattaya and Koh Larn. On December 8, 2024, what started as an adventurous feat of endurance ended in a fortunate rescue. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345699-naked-russian-man-rescued-from-sea-between-pattaya-and-koh-larn/

Picture courtesy: FM91 A daring escapade took an unexpected turn for a Russian man found adrift and naked between Pattaya and Koh Larn. On December 8, 2024, what started as an adventurous feat of endurance ended in a fortunate rescue. Mr. Pracharat, a seasoned speedboat driver, was ferrying more than 20 tourists to Koh Larn when he spotted an unusual sight—a man floating in the waters approximately six kilometres offshore, near the Hin Kong buoy channel. This location is situated between Koh Larn and Bali Hai Pier, far enough from the coast that swimming unaided poses significant danger. Reacting swiftly, Mr. Pracharat brought his boat to a halt and threw a life jacket to the stranger. The man, who turned out to be a Russian tourist, was found in an exhausted state, completely naked, and bearing festering wounds likely caused by prolonged exposure to seawater. Once aboard, the rescued man was provided with towels for coverage and given water to rehydrate. He was then transported to the Koh Larn District Office for further assistance and processing. Remarkably, the relatively calm sea currents of the day contributed to his survival, preventing him from drifting too far out or encountering potential harm from passing boats. During the journey back, a conversation unfolded between the speedboat passengers and the rescued man. It emerged that the tourist had embarked on his swim from Pattaya Beach the previous night, aiming to reach Koh Larn—an adventurous goal that turned precarious as the currents led him astray. Mr. Pracharat noted that while such incidents are not unheard of, this was his first personal encounter with someone attempting such a perilous swim. The incident underscores both the spirit of adventure and the inherent dangers of underestimating nature's power. This event, thankfully concluding with a dramatic yet safe rescue, highlights the need for caution and respect for the sea. It serves as a timely reminder to adventurers and tourists alike to prioritise safety over thrill, ensuring that future explorations do not end in potential peril, reported Superball for FM91. -- 2024-12-09

Foreigners and Thais Arrested in Underwear at Bangkok Hotel Party Picture courtesy: Siam Rath In an extraordinary crackdown, Thai police swept into an unauthorised gathering in Bangkok's Watthana district, arresting over 120 scantily clad individuals at a hotel party floor. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345691-foreigners-and-thais-arrested-in-underwear-at-bangkok-hotel-party/

Picture courtesy: Siam Rath In an extraordinary crackdown, Thai police swept into an unauthorised gathering in Bangkok's Watthana district, arresting over 120 scantily clad individuals at a hotel party floor. Early on Sunday morning, officers raided Room 2001 of the fashionable S31 Hotel, ending an event that veered into illegal territory. Pol Col Pansa Amarapitak, commanding officer at Thong Lor, recounted the striking scene. Attendees, including both Thai and foreign nationals, were discovered in various states of undress, allegedly under the influence of drugs such as ecstasy and ketamine. The majority were identified as gay men, with a small number of women also present. This wasn’t the first time the venue was flagged. Police had been tipped off about a similar party just the night before, from Friday evening rolling into Saturday morning. Their attempts to infiltrate the festive gathering via a private social media group had previously been thwarted, but persistence led them back to the premises. Forewarned of the repeated partying, police entered Room 2001 in the early hours, interrupting the lively assembly of guests. Alongside offerings of food and drink, authorities found illicit substances shadowing the celebratory atmosphere. Although the party had initiated elsewhere, guests reconvened at the hotel for a secondary round. Drug testing on-site revealed that a significant portion of the attendees were embroiled in narcotic use. Specifically, 31 individuals, including one woman, were in possession of drugs, while 66 others, another woman among them, showed signs of consumption. Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Fortunately, 27 guests tested negative for drug residue and were subsequently released. However, the raid has drawn attention to such clandestine gatherings and the prevalence of drugs within these circles. Remarkably, the attendees included professionals, such as doctors and individuals associated with the beauty sector, adding further intrigue to the incident. As investigations continue, reported Bangkok Post, -- 2024-12-09

Yingluck Unlikely to Return under Thaksin's Return Model: Pita Pita Limjaroenrat, the former leader of Move Forward, has asserted that the return of ex-Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra is unlikely to follow the same pathway as her brother, Thaksin Shinawatra. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345698-yingluck-unlikely-to-return-under-thaksins-return-model-pita/

Picture courtesy: Wikipedia Pita Limjaroenrat, the former leader of Move Forward, has asserted that the return of ex-Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra is unlikely to follow the same pathway as her brother, Thaksin Shinawatra. Thaksin's comeback to Thailand under contentious circumstances has stirred political discussions, but Pita believes Yingluck's situation requires a different approach. Currently serving as an adviser to the Progressive Movement's chairman Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit, Pita stated that Yingluck's legal issues set her case apart. Found guilty of negligence in handling the rice subsidy scheme, Yingluck was sentenced to five years in prison. Pita emphasised the importance of tackling her case transparently and impartially to restore public trust in Thailand's political system. Yingluck's conviction stemmed from her involvement in a failed rice subsidy programme, leading to significant financial losses for the country. Although she is 57, she still faces the very real possibility of serving her sentence unlike Thaksin, who at 75, reportedly avoided time behind bars, instead securing a privileged hospital stay last year. Addressing speculations around the implications of recent parole releases for figures linked to the rice subsidy scandal, including former Pheu Thai commerce minister Boonsong Teriyabhirom, Pita dismissed the notion that these events would influence Yingluck's potential return. Boonsong, alongside his deputy Poom Sarapol and businessman Apichart Jansakulporn, known as Sia Peng, were recently granted parole after serving part of their sentences. Pita urged Yingluck to engage with the justice system to clarify her role in the scandal, underscoring that this approach is key to ensuring justice is served. By facing the legal process, he believes Yingluck could potentially clear her name and assert her case. As the discourse around Yingluck's possible return continues, Pita's comments highlight the delicate balance between political dynamics and legal proceedings in Thailand, reported Thai Newsroom. -- 2024-12-09

Thailand's Rice Yields Lag Behind Asian Counterparts Picture courtesy: Wikipedia Thailand, a well-known player in the global rice market, faces challenges as its average rice yields fall short compared to other major rice-producing nations. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345697-thailands-rice-yields-lag-behind-asian-counterparts/

Picture courtesy: Wikipedia Thailand, a well-known player in the global rice market, faces challenges as its average rice yields fall short compared to other major rice-producing nations. Anon Nonsee, the deputy director-general of the Department of Rice, revealed that the country's yield per rai (0.16 hectares) is only about 400-500 kilograms. In stark contrast, countries like Vietnam and China achieve yields ranging from 1,000 to 1,200 kilograms per rai. These figures highlight a significant yield gap, attributable partly to the popularity of jasmine rice. Renowned for its aroma and soft texture, jasmine rice thrives under Thailand's drier conditions, particularly in the Northeast and North. However, its unique qualities come with yields of just 350-400 kilograms per rai, influencing Thailand’s overall average. Addressing this challenge, the Department of Rice is pursuing innovative strategies. There's a newfound emphasis on promoting coloured rice varieties, which align with growing market demands for specialty grains. Currently, these account for just 5-10% of total production, yet offer an intriguing niche with high market value. Anon explains, "Varieties like coloured rice and indigenous strains cater to niche consumers. These can be marketed similarly to luxury products—rare, valuable, and appealing to high-end markets." Interestingly, the popularity of coloured rice is rising, particularly among Chinese consumers, due to perceived health benefits. This growing interest dovetails with efforts from the Department of Rice to collaborate with the Tourism Authority of Thailand to increase exposure and entice tourists to try these unique grains during their stay. In an ambitious move, the Department plans to cultivate 'rainbow rice' in 2024, featuring varieties in vibrant hues like deep purple, light purple, and green. In a nod to tourism, rice fields in Chiang Rai and Phayao will take artistic shapes—such as a cat and a dinosaur—enhancing their appeal as tourist destinations. Beyond aesthetics, these rice varieties offer considerable economic benefits. Some have high protein content, making the leaves valuable for health foods and plant-based products. This has triggered interest from markets in China and Japan, with potential earnings of up to 100,000 baht per kilogram for hydrolysed protein. In addition, the Department advocates for transformative farming practices, encouraging farmers to grow high-protein coloured rice for animal feed. This approach, piloted in Mukdahan province, promises multiple harvests annually, potentially offering more lucrative returns than traditional rice farming. Through these innovative strategies, the Department of Rice aims to lift farmers out of low-income blocks, promoting diversified income streams and paving the way for sustainable agricultural practices in Thailand's rice sector, reported The Nation. -- 2024-12-09

Massage Parlour Visits Turn Fatal: Singaporean Tourist and Thai Singer Die FILE photo for reference only. Courtesy: Freepik A holiday retreat in Thailand took a tragic turn when a Singaporean tourist and a Thai singer both reportedly died following massages in Phuket and Udon Thani. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345680-massage-parlour-visits-turn-fatal-singaporean-tourist-and-thai-singer-die/

FILE photo for reference only. Courtesy: Freepik A holiday retreat in Thailand took a tragic turn when a Singaporean tourist and a Thai singer both reportedly died following massages in Phuket and Udon Thani. Late last night, Lee Mun Tuck, a Singaporean tourist enjoying his stay in Phuket, met an unexpected fate. After a massage at a local parlour at Patong Beach, Lee collapsed and was later pronounced dead at Patong Hospital. Authorities, led by Pol. Col. Chalermchai Hirasawat, are treating the situation with seriousness, with an autopsy underway to uncover the cause. While no visible wounds marred Lee's body, the suddenness of his death has left many in shock. Lee's unfortunate passing has prompted action from the Singaporean embassy to inform his relatives. In a parallel event in Udon Thani, the loss of Thai singer Chanida Phraohom, known as Phing Chanida, has further stirred public concern. Chanida died today after an ordeal with a massage parlour that left her physically debilitated. Her poignant social media posts reveal a harrowing account of her experience. What began as a routine shoulder massage to alleviate pain spiralled into a nightmare. Chanida described a sequence of treatments, during which her neck was manipulated, leaving her with severe pain, numbness, and eventual immobility. Picture courtesy: AMARIN TV Initially brushing off the discomfort as a typical post-massage soreness, Chanida's condition worsened after subsequent visits to the same parlour. A third massage further aggravated her symptoms, leading to sensations of electric shocks and escalating numbness on her right side. Despite growing up with massages, as her mother was a masseuse, Chanida never anticipated such dire consequences. These incidents have ignited a conversation on the safety and regulation of massage practices in Thailand. Massage is a cherished part of Thai culture, celebrated for its healing and relaxation benefits. However, these tragic cases highlight the potential risks involved, urging tourists and locals alike to approach massage services with caution and awareness. For now, the families of Lee Mun Tuck and Phing Chanida mourn their untimely losses, as Thai authorities work to ensure that such tragedies are prevented in the future. Their stories serve as a sobering reminder of the importance of vigilance and safety in the pursuit of relaxation and relief. As the investigations continue, the hospitality and wellness industries in Thailand may see heightened scrutiny and possibly new regulations, aiming to preserve the essence of Thai massage while safeguarding its patrons, reported Amarin TV. -- 2024-12-09

Police Truck Slides into the Sea While Towing Jet Ski on Koh Samui The scene unfolded on Koh Samui when a police patrol truck slid into the sea while towing a jet ski back to the station. The incident, which occurred near a beachfront road in Moo 3, Ang Thong subdistrict, left onlookers, including tourists and locals, in shock. Fortunately, no injuries were reported. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345637-police-truck-slides-into-the-sea-while-towing-jet-ski-on-koh-samui/