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File photo courtesy of My Guide Bangkok Bangkok's Banthat Thong Road, once bustling with diners and tourists, is now facing a significant downturn. The Bantadthong Association reports a dramatic revenue drop of 40-50% for restaurants on this famed street. The decline is primarily attributed to weak domestic spending and a slump in Chinese tourism, which usually makes up 20-30% of daily visitors. Sittichan Vuttipornkul, the adviser for the Bantadthong Association, highlights that while the cost of ingredients and rent is climbing steadily at 5% annually, consumer spending is lagging. Compounding the issue is the drop in domestic tourism spending since early 2025, with some restaurants witnessing as much as a 70% dip from last year. Negative online reviews, citing overpriced and lacklustre food, also deter potential customers. Yet, there's a ray of hope in the form of lower rental costs. Around 80-90% of businesses rent directly from Chulalongkorn University at a lower rate of 350 baht per square metre, contrasting sharply with 700 to 1,000 baht in shopping malls. High aspirations for quick profit by some new restaurateurs haven't panned out, leading the association to contemplate discussions on sustainable business practices. Despite these challenges, Banthat Thong remains a vibrant culinary hub. Named the 14th coolest street globally by Time Out magazine, it plays host to more than 300 dining spots, ranging from well-established eateries to new ventures like Haab, known for its Thai egg pastries. Interestingly, the street continues to draw significant foot traffic — 10,000 to 30,000 visitors daily back in 2024. With a low closure rate of just 2-3%, there remains demand for investment. The Bantadthong Association envisions transforming this iconic street into a premier tourist hotspot for street food and lifestyle experiences. There's a clear focus on diversifying the customer base beyond the younger crowd with limited spending power. Future plans include collaborative activities with other businesses, aiming to attract visitors of all ages. The association is keen to avoid price wars that could damage long-term prospects, stressing the importance of value over pricing alone. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-05-28

Mexican Actress Eiza González Braves Thai Heat Filming 'Fountain' Picture of Eiza González (left) and John Krasinski (right) courtesy of Entertainment Weekly Mexican sensation Eiza González has faced the sweltering Bangkok heat during the filming of her latest action flick, Fountain of Youth. The actress, renowned for her roles in hits like Baby Driver and Alita: Battle Angel, has unveiled the gruelling conditions while shooting under the blazing Thai sun. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361990-mexican-actress-eiza-gonzález-braves-thai-heat-filming-fountain/

Picture of Eiza González (left) and John Krasinski (right) courtesy of Entertainment Weekly Mexican sensation Eiza González has faced the sweltering Bangkok heat during the filming of her latest action flick, Fountain of Youth. The actress, renowned for her roles in hits like Baby Driver and Alita: Battle Angel, has unveiled the gruelling conditions while shooting under the blazing Thai sun. While speaking to The Star via a Zoom interview, González shared her unique approach to surviving the intense temperatures. She's had to mentally battle the heat by convincing herself that she's "cold" while donning a full-body suit during demanding action sequences — a directive from the film's visionary director, Guy Ritchie. Despite these challenges, González remains upbeat about her performance, attributing her resilience to the intense training and mindset required to successfully navigate the film's exotic settings. Fountain of Youth, a thrilling tale about treasure hunters pursuing eternal life, features Bangkok as a central component of its adventurous narrative. Elsewhere, recent reports indicate that filming activity hasn't yet translated into a tourism spike for some Thai locales. Hospitality expert Bill Barnett noted that popular destinations like Phuket and Koh Samui aren't experiencing any marked increase in visitor numbers after the successful run of HBO's The White Lotus series, citing several hurdles, including China's current tourism strategy and economic tensions. This paints a complex picture for the region's tourism sector. While the excitement of Hollywood productions brings a buzz, local tourism figures remain uncertain as external factors continue to play a significant role. Despite the sizzling challenges on and off set, fans can anticipate a captivating showcase of Bangkok's vibrancy, as González’s performance is set against this dazzling backdrop in an eagerly awaited cinematic event. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-28

Thaksin Denounces Flee Rumours, Promises Court Appearance Picture courtesy Amarin TV Thaksin Shinawatra, the bigwig behind the Pheu Thai Party, made a public appearance today to quash swirling rumours of his flight from Thailand. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361989-thaksin-denounces-flee-rumours-promises-court-appearance/

Picture courtesy Amarin TV Thaksin Shinawatra, the bigwig behind the Pheu Thai Party, made a public appearance today to quash swirling rumours of his flight from Thailand. With an unwavering stance, the former prime minister assured reporters outside the Narcotic Control Board headquarters that he had no intention of evading upcoming legal trials despite being 75 years old. The business mogul, renowned for his aggressive campaigns against drug trafficking during his term in office, addressed a gathering in Bangkok. Mid-June sees Thaksin before the Supreme Court, where he faces allegations of faking critical illness to dodge incarceration at Bangkok Remand prison. His purported ploy linked to supposed 'critical condition' claims at Police Hospital has not gone unnoticed by the Medical Council of Thailand, which previously rebuked several doctors for their role in the matter. Evolving suspicions cast certain Bangkok Remand executives and police officials in the spotlight, with potential legal repercussions for exploiting loopholes that seemingly kept Thaksin shielded from standard jail protocols. In the climactic saga, these claims of special treatment supposedly link to a masquerade from August 2023 until February this year. Adding to his slate, Thaksin will soon confront the Criminal Court concerning lese majeste charges. This case draws back to a controversial interview in 2015, where Thaksin is accused of implicating the monarchy in the 2006 military coup that ousted him. The content of this case will unfold in early July, marking another chapter for one of Thailand's most polarising figures. Thaksin stands firm amidst legal turbulence with a promise to meet his obligations to the Thai judiciary. As tensions simmer, his forthcoming court sessions promise critical moments in navigating both his personal legal landscape and public perceptions. The wider implications for his political allies remain to be seen, as the onus of justice hangs in the balance. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai Newsroom 2025-05-28

Indian Tourist Arrested for Night-Time Currency Exchange Robbery Picture courtesy of Khaosod A young Indian man has been arrested for the armed robbery of a currency exchange store in Bang Rak, Bangkok, where he allegedly stole nearly 100,000 baht. The suspect, identified as 23-year-old Aman, initially denied the accusations but later confessed to spending the money on nightlife activities. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361986-indian-tourist-arrested-for-night-time-currency-exchange-robbery/

Indian Tourist Arrested for Night-Time Currency Exchange Robbery Picture courtesy of Khaosod A young Indian man has been arrested for the armed robbery of a currency exchange store in Bang Rak, Bangkok, where he allegedly stole nearly 100,000 baht. The suspect, identified as 23-year-old Aman, initially denied the accusations but later confessed to spending the money on nightlife activities. On 27th May, Thai police led by Lieutenant General Siam Boonsom apprehended Aman, who had reportedly used a firearm and a motorcycle to carry out the crime. Picture courtesy of Khaosod The incident took place on 26th May when Aman allegedly entered a currency exchange on Silom Road, threatened staff with a gun, and made off with approximately 93,000 baht after his initial attempt at another store proved unsuccessful. Police investigations included reviewing CCTV footage, which showed the suspect's appearance and getaway. After further examination, officers tracked Aman to an apartment in the Samre district, where he was arrested. Picture courtesy of Khaosod While Aman denied the charges at first, the police found clothing matching the description from the crime, the getaway motorcycle, and approximately 50,000 baht of the stolen money. Aman confessed to acting alone and using the money for recreational activities during the night. He is now facing legal proceedings for armed robbery and related offences. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Khaosod 2025-05-28

Pattaya's Glow Grows: New Upgrades Ignite Year-Round Visitor Boom Pattaya, long cherished for its dynamic nightlife and pristine beaches, is reinventing itself as a must-visit destination beyond the typical high season peaks. Recent developments, including fresh urban enhancements and upgrades to iconic landmarks, are drawing in tourists irrespective of the calendar. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361946-pattayas-glow-grows-new-upgrades-ignite-year-round-visitor-boom/

Bangkok Police Clamp Down on Taxi Driver Misconduct in Tourist Hotspots Pictures courtesy of Tourist Police Bureau Facebook In a concerted effort to safeguard Bangkok's reputation as a welcoming city for tourists, law enforcement is rigorously cracking down on unscrupulous taxi drivers. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361948-bangkok-police-clamp-down-on-taxi-driver-misconduct-in-tourist-hotspots/

to continue: Thailand Live Wednesday 28 May 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1361942-thailand-live-wednesday-28-may-2025/

Vietnamese Sex Workers Surge in Bangkok Amid Visa Policy Concerns File photo for reference only A startling report has uncovered a dramatic increase in Vietnamese sex workers, now surpassing Thai nationals in Bangkok's infamous sex trade. This shift is largely linked to Thailand's inviting tourist visa policies, which have inadvertently turned the kingdom into a hub for foreign sex workers. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361938-vietnamese-sex-workers-surge-in-bangkok-amid-visa-policy-concerns/

Drunk Taxi Driver Crashes Through Government House Fence Picture courtesy of Daily News In the early hours of the morning, a taxi driver crashed through the fence of Thailand's Government House, causing significant property damage. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361912-drunk-taxi-driver-crashes-through-government-house-fence/

Picture courtesy of Daily News In the early hours of the morning, a taxi driver crashed through the fence of Thailand's Government House, causing significant property damage. The driver later admitted to being intoxicated. Police from Dusit Police Station took him into custody and began legal proceedings. At 3:30 AM on May 27, officers from Dusit Police Station received a report that a taxi had crashed into the wall of the Government House on Phitsanulok Road. When police arrived at the scene, they found a green-and-yellow taxi, license plate 1 มข 1538 Bangkok, had smashed into the Government House fence, causing noticeable damage. The driver was identified as Mr Siwasit, 59 years old. A search of the vehicle found nothing illegal. However, while speaking with the driver, officers smelled alcohol and observed clear signs of intoxication. Mr Siwasit admitted that he had been drinking. Police took Mr Siwasit to Dusit Police Station and administered a breathalyser test, which showed a blood alcohol level of 195 milligrams per cent, well above the legal limit. He was charged accordingly, and legal action is now underway. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Daily News 2025-05-27

Couple Scammed in Second-Hand Car Purchase Fiasco Picture courtesy of Daily News In a bewildering scam, a Thai couple found themselves out of pocket and embroiled in a legal quandary after an attempted purchase of a second-hand pickup truck. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361908-couple-scammed-in-second-hand-car-purchase-fiasco/

Picture courtesy of Daily News In a bewildering scam, a Thai couple found themselves out of pocket and embroiled in a legal quandary after an attempted purchase of a second-hand pickup truck. Mr. Nop, 27, and his heavily pregnant wife, Ms. A, 29, had agreed to buy a Toyota Rocco for 640,000 baht, sourced through a Facebook page promoting repossessed vehicles. They had already paid a 7,000 baht deposit, with plans to transfer the remaining 627,000 baht upon collection. During the handover on 23rd May, at a petrol station in Bang Phli, the situation took a dramatic turn. Moments after Ms. A transferred the funds, ostensibly to the vehicle owner’s account, a man named Santi accused the couple of transferring money to the wrong account before driving the truck away, leaving Ms. A inside. Mr. Nop acted swiftly, jumping onto the truck bed and breaking a window to stop Santi, who subsequently fled. The local police later arrived but deemed Santi and an associate, Tanongsak, as victims and rightful vehicle owners, refusing to proceed with any charges against them. Feeling unjustly treated, the couple sought assistance from a social justice advocacy foundation. Lawyer Chanchai, representing the foundation, vowed to pursue charges of fraud and unlawful detention against the alleged scammers, urging caution for future buyers. This cautionary tale warns potential buyers against too-good-to-be-true deals on vehicles advertised at half price. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Daily News 2025-05-27

Thai PM Paetongtarn Faces Dilemma Over Compensation Order Composite courtesy of Daily News In a complex political situation, Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra must decide whether to enforce a court ruling that her aunt, former Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra, pay 10 billion baht in compensation. If she fails to act, it could lead to allegations of neglect of duty. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361900-thai-pm-paetongtarn-faces-dilemma-over-compensation-order/

Composite courtesy of Daily News In a complex political situation, Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra must decide whether to enforce a court ruling that her aunt, former Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra, pay 10 billion baht in compensation. If she fails to act, it could lead to allegations of neglect of duty. Rumours circulated that Thaksin Shinawatra, another former PM, had left the country. However, Paetongtarn assured the public that he remains in Thailand. Questions have emerged about her recent trip to the UK, with speculation suggesting it might relate to Thaksin's affairs. Paetongtarn dismissed these claims, stating her visit was for her children's schooling. On 27th May, Thaksin is scheduled to deliver a speech on "Transnational Crime and Drug Challenges" in his first public appearance in weeks. This follows a Supreme Administrative Court ruling that holds Yingluck responsible for losses from the rice pledging scheme. Opposition party leaders question the government's stance on drug policies and express concerns about Paetongtarn's leadership, fearing her actions are overshadowed by Thaksin. They urge the current administration to clarify its drug strategy beyond past controversial measures, particularly criticised by the international community. As Thailand's parliament prepares for a special session to discuss the national budget, the political focus is on whether the Senate will approve crucial appointments against the backdrop of ongoing controversies. The responsibilities now rest heavily on Prime Minister Paetongtarn, as she must issue new orders per the court's decision, potentially facing legal challenges if she doesn’t act promptly. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Daily News 2025-05-27

Brutal Attack: Boyfriend Slashes Legs and Stabs Feet of Former Mor Lam Dancer Picture courtesy of Thai Rath In a harrowing incident, a former Thai dancer was forced to leap from her dormitory to escape her violent boyfriend. The 27-year-old woman, known as Aomsin, suffered severe injuries after being assaulted by her partner, who used a knife to cut her legs and stab her foot. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361891-brutal-attack-boyfriend-slashes-legs-and-stabs-feet-of-former-mor-lam-dancer/

Picture courtesy of Thairath In a harrowing incident, a former Thai dancer was forced to leap from her dormitory to escape her violent boyfriend. The 27-year-old woman, known as Aomsin, suffered severe injuries after being assaulted by her partner, who used a knife to cut her legs and stab her foot. The events unfolded on 24th May in Udon Thani. Aomsin's mother, Supinya Akkadee, informed the media about her daughter's ordeal, which included being beaten repeatedly and threatened. The violence erupted after the woman discovered her boyfriend's infidelity. The 26-year-old perpetrator not only assaulted Aomsin but also stole her Oppo smartphone and room key card. Aomsin had been in the relationship for a little over two months. Initially, their relationship seemed caring, but it quickly turned abusive, culminating in the recent brutal attack. Fleeing from the escalating violence, Aomsin managed to escape and seek help, later reporting the incident to the police in Phen District, Udon Thani. Further investigations revealed that the accused had a history of abusing women, often while intoxicated, and was known for his jealous behaviour. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai Rath 2025-05-27

Malaysia's PM Thanks Thaksin at ASEAN Summit for Myanmar Efforts Picture courtesy of Siam Rath Malaysian Prime Minister, Anwar Ibrahim, opened the 46th ASEAN Summit by acknowledging the vital role of Thaksin Shinawatra, a former Thai Prime Minister, leading Malaysia's advisory panel in addressing the Myanmar crisis. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361881-malaysias-pm-thanks-thaksin-at-asean-summit-for-myanmar-efforts/

Picture courtesy of Siam Rath Malaysian Prime Minister, Anwar Ibrahim, opened the 46th ASEAN Summit by acknowledging the vital role of Thaksin Shinawatra, a former Thai Prime Minister, leading Malaysia's advisory panel in addressing the Myanmar crisis. In a gathering filled with media from ASEAN and beyond, Anwar credited the team's efforts, particularly during the third meeting in Bangkok, as a significant leap forward, despite challenges. Anwar called for ASEAN leaders to unite and bolster the community through "Inclusivity and Sustainability". He expressed optimism about ASEAN's capacity to navigate geopolitical and trade pressures, notably from US tariff hikes, announcing the formation of a Geo-economics Task Force to tackle such issues. The summit also marked the first ASEAN-GCC-China Summit, a symbolic move towards global multi-polar partnerships, expected to yield widespread positive impacts. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Siam Rath 2025-05-27

UPDATE: British Fugitive Captured in Thailand After High-Stakes Koh Samui Chase Picture courtesy of CH7 News A British fugitive, Mr. Kieran, aged 38, was dramatically arrested today on Thailand’s Koh Samui. He is wanted back in the UK for a violent robbery. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361698-british-fugitives-arrested-for-robbery-fraud-linked-to-nominee-businesses-on-koh-samui/page/3/#findComment-19827737

UPDATE: British Fugitive Captured in Thailand After High-Stakes Koh Samui Chase Picture courtesy of CH7 News A British fugitive, Mr. Kieran, aged 38, was dramatically arrested today on Thailand’s Koh Samui. He is wanted back in the UK for a violent robbery. His arrest was a collaborative effort between local authorities and the Crime Suppression Division, following a dedicated request from the UK's National Crime Agency (NCA) to extradite him. Mr. Kieran had been residing in Bo Phut, a picturesque subdistrict on the popular tourist haven, with his Ukrainian girlfriend. Thai police swiftly gathered evidence of his whereabouts and obtained a search warrant from the Koh Samui Provincial Court. However, seizing the elusive suspect wasn't straightforward, as the couple had vacated their residence on a motorcycle. A high-stakes pursuit unfolded, culminating in his apprehension at a local pier. The arrest was a coordinated strike between the Office of the Attorney General in Thailand and the UK’s NCA, underscoring the strong international cooperation in tackling cross-border crime. Despite the solid foundation for the arrest, Mr. Kieran responded by denying all charges during his initial questioning, a twist in the tale that may entangle the legal process. The case now progresses to legal proceedings, with the suspect looking at possible extradition to face justice in the UK. This incident highlights the proactive stance by Thai and UK authorities in ensuring international fugitives are held accountable. It serves as a chilling reminder of the reach of justice beyond borders. Koh Samui, traditionally renowned for its picturesque beaches, has recently gained attention for its involvement in an international criminal case. Although the tranquil island remains a popular destination for tourists, it maintains a strict vigilance to prevent individuals from using it as a sanctuary from legal prosecution. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai Newsroom 2025-05-27

Jet-Ski Operator Nabbed in Wild Phuket Clash Video screenshot from the attack via Phuket News A jet-ski rental operator is in hot water after a heated road clash in Phuket, where he lashed out with a helmet on an unsuspecting elderly driver. The altercation erupted yesterday morning on Thepkrasattri Road, Thalang, and ignited social media after being caught on camera. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361875-jet-ski-operator-nabbed-in-wild-phuket-clash/

Video screenshot from the attack via Phuket News A jet-ski rental operator is in hot water after a heated road clash in Phuket, where he lashed out with a helmet on an unsuspecting elderly driver. The altercation erupted yesterday morning on Thepkrasattri Road, Thalang, and ignited social media after being caught on camera. The fracas unfolded around 10.30am, capturing the moment 45-year-old Wisan Ketruangruang, hailing from Chachoengsao province, swung a helmet at the elderly three-wheeler driver. The confrontation happened near Mae Sompong Market and took a violent turn following a traffic altercation. By early afternoon, Thalang police had collared Wisan, arresting him near a flower shop close to the incident scene. Tests revealed Wisan was under the influence, with a blood alcohol level of 96 milligrams percent. Further, hospital tests confirmed traces of methamphetamine, compounding his legal woes. Wisan now faces charges of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs and illegal methamphetamine use. Meanwhile, police efforts to track down the elderly victim remain underway, urging anyone with information to step forward. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-27