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Picture courtesy of Tom De Decker, Unsplash by Bright Choomanee The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) issued its third warning about heavy to very heavy rainfall expected to hit southern Thailand from December 3 to December 5. The adverse weather conditions are being attributed to a low-pressure system over the southern South China Sea, which is forecast to move across the lower southern region of Thailand and Malaysia before entering the southern Andaman Sea and the Strait of Malacca. This, combined with a moderate northeast monsoon affecting the Gulf of Thailand, is likely to cause Residents in the following areas are advised to prepare for potential flash floods and landslides: December 3: Phatthalung, Songkhla, Pattani, Yala, Narathiwat, Trang, Satun December 4: Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phatthalung, Songkhla, Pattani, Yala, Narathiwat, Krabi, Trang, Satun December 5: Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phatthalung, Songkhla, Pattani, Yala, Narathiwat, Krabi, Trang, Satun The TMD has urged people in flood-prone and mountainous areas to stay vigilant as accumulated rainfall may lead to sudden flooding and water runoff. Sea conditions in the Gulf of Thailand are expected to become rough, particularly in the lower regions, with waves reaching 1 to 2 metres and rising higher during thunderstorms. Mariners are advised to exercise caution, avoid storm-affected zones, and avoid venturing into areas with heavy rainfall. Officials have encouraged residents to stay informed through official announcements and to prepare for emergencies, reported KhaoSod. Travellers, particularly those heading to or from the southern provinces, are advised to plan and monitor weather conditions closely. For updates, visit the TMD’s website at www.tmd.go.th or contact their hotline at 1182, available 24/7. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-03

Thailand's Marriage Equality Bill to Become Law Next Month Picture courtesy: South China Morning Post Thailand is set to become the third region in Asia, following Taiwan and Nepal, to legally recognise same-sex marriage, with the Marriage Equality Bill poised to take effect next month. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345216-thailand-prepares-for-historic-marriage-equality-law-enactment/

Picture courtesy: South China Morning Post Thailand is set to become the third region in Asia, following Taiwan and Nepal, to legally recognise same-sex marriage, with the Marriage Equality Bill poised to take effect next month. Following its royal endorsement, the law was published in the Royal Gazette on 24th September, heralding a significant shift in Thai legislative history. From 22nd January, same-sex couples will be legally permitted to register their marriages, marking the commencement of a new era of legal equality. To prepare for this landmark change, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration, alongside various governmental ministries and Bangkok Pride, hosted the "Marriage Equality Day" event. This initiative aimed to assess and ensure Thailand's readiness for the bill's implementation. Kannapong Pipatmontrikul, from the Interior Ministry, announced the formation of a committee to update marriage registration systems, allowing same-sex marriage registrations at district offices nationwide. The language of regulations is being adapted to remove gender-specific terms, substituting "individuals" and "married couples" to align with the spirit of the new law. Once these regulatory amendments receive approval from the Interior Minister, system modifications and trial runs will follow, training staff across registration offices to handle the updated processes proficiently. Post-enactment, same-sex marriage registration will be open to individuals aged 18 and over—a provision that includes parental or guardian consent for those under 20. Further efforts are underway to revise connected legal frameworks, ensuring equal rights for same-sex couples across other legislative areas such as surrogacy, nationality, and gender recognition, according to Kerdchoke Kasemwongjit from the Justice Ministry. This holistic approach aims to guarantee full parity with heterosexual couples in establishing and nurturing families, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-12-03

Overstaying American Arrested at Phuket Airport By Goongnang Suksawa An American man was arrested at the Phuket International Airport for 21 days of overstay. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345213-overstaying-american-arrested-at-phuket-airport/

By Goongnang Suksawa An American man was arrested at the Phuket International Airport for 21 days of overstay. Phuket Immigration at the airport told the Phuket Express that over the past weekend they arrested the unidentified 40-year-old American man at the international terminal in the airport. He was found to have overstayed for 21 days. The American man was taken to the Sakoo Police Station to face overstay charges. Full story: THE PHUKET EXPRESS -- 2024-12-03

Monk's Makeshift Eyebrows with Tape Solves Welfare Card Payment Issue Picture courtesy: MGR online A monk's ingenious approach to a welfare payment mishap has captivated social media users. After failing to verify his identity with the state welfare payment app due to missing eyebrows, the monk received help from inventive store staff who used black adhesive tape to create temporary eyebrows. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345209-monks-makeshift-eyebrows-with-tape-solves-welfare-card-payment-issue/

Picture courtesy: MGR online A monk's ingenious approach to a welfare payment mishap has captivated social media users. After failing to verify his identity with the state welfare payment app due to missing eyebrows, the monk received help from inventive store staff who used black adhesive tape to create temporary eyebrows. This creative solution was shared on Facebook by CNew Viewer 4K, swiftly gaining traction with nearly 8,000 reactions. The monk's dilemma unfolded when the facial recognition system at a partner store, essential for processing welfare card payments, couldn't recognise him because of his eyebrow-less appearance—a characteristic of Buddhist monks. Picture courtesy: MGR online By applying the adhesive-tape eyebrows, the staff managed to enable the system to process the monk's payment successfully. Photos from the incident showed the tape being applied, the monk's face scanned, and a staff member chuckling at the unconventional fix. Picture courtesy: MGR online Commenters on social media both laughed at the humorous scene and noted the real-life challenges such incidents highlight, particularly for shops accepting welfare card payments. This episode underscores the unforeseen hurdles that cultural practices can pose to technology-driven systems, reported MGR online. -- 2024-12-03

Indian Nationals Arrested in Thailand for Illegal Money Lending Picture courtesy: Daily News Thai police have arrested two Indian men masquerading as peanut vendors while secretly running an illegal money lending operation. The arrests were made in Phayao after a coordinated effort by local authorities. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345206-indian-nationals-arrested-in-phayao-for-illegal-money-lending/

Picture courtesy: Daily News Thai police have arrested two Indian men masquerading as peanut vendors while secretly running an illegal money lending operation. The arrests were made in Phayao after a coordinated effort by local authorities. The individuals, identified as Mr. Sahani Neeraj, 23, and Mr. Sahani Namo, 27, were detained with significant evidence, including mobile phones, customer lists, and a motorcycle. They were charged with conducting an unlicensed money lending business and overstaying their visas. Reports surfaced that the men were offering high-interest loans—20% interest per day—to market traders and local residents, under the cover of trading peanuts. This operation formed part of a broader initiative by Thai authorities to crack down on illegal lending, which burden many people with unmanageable debts. Authorities have emphasised the importance of such operations, pointing to government policies prioritising the eradication of unlawful financial schemes. Further investigations are ongoing as officials seek to gather more evidence and identify potential accomplices, reported Daily News. -- 2024-12-03

Russian Woman Falls to Her Death from 37th Floor of Condo in Bangkok Picture from responders. The incident occurred on the afternoon of December 2, when a 24 year old Russian woman jumped or fell from the 37th floor of a condominium in Ratchathewi, plunging to her death. At approximately 15:05, Pol. Sub-Lt. Papawin Donmoolphrai, an investigator with the Phayathai Police Station, received a report of a woman having fallen from a high floor of a condominium on Phayathai Road, Ratchathewi district. Police, forensic officers, a medical team from Ramathibodi Hospital, and rescue volunteers from the Ruamkatanyu Foundation rushed to the scene. The condominium, consisting of two 44-story buildings, became the site of a horrific discovery. The victim, identified as Ms. Maria, a 24-year-old Russian national, was found lifeless on the pavement beside Tower A. She was wearing a green short sleeved T-shirt and black trousers. The impact caused severe bodily disfigurement, with blood and brain matter scattered across the pavement and onto a nearby wall. Preliminary investigations revealed that the deceased had been residing in a rented unit on the 37th floor. When authorities visited the apartment, they encountered her boyfriend, Mr. Nikita, a 39 year old Russian national, who appeared distraught and was reportedly crying uncontrollably. A Russian interpreter was called in to assist with the inquiry. The couple had recently moved into the condominium, having rented the unit on an annual lease just 15 days prior to the incident. Neighbours reported hearing a loud and heated argument between the couple the previous evening. Surveillance footage from the building showed no evidence of a third party entering the unit before the incident. However, there were no cameras positioned to capture the exact location from which she fell or jumped. Authorities are continuing their investigation and plan to interview the boyfriend further to determine the circumstances leading to the tragedy and if this was an accidental fall, suicide or foul play. If you or anyone you know is in emotional distress, please contact the Samaritans of Thailand 24-hour hotline: 02 713 6791 (English), 02 713 6793 (Thai) or the Thai Mental Health Hotline at 1323 (Thai). Please also contact your friends or relatives at this time if you have feelings of loneliness, stress or depression. Seek help. -- 2024-12-03

Russian Woman Falls to Death from 37th Floor Condo Picture courtesy: AMARIN TV In a tragic incident, a Russian woman has died after falling from the 37th floor of a condominium in the Ratchathewi district of Bangkok. The woman, whose name has not been released, lived there with her partner. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345188-russian-woman-falls-to-death-from-37th-floor-condo/

Picture courtesy: AMARIN TV In a tragic incident, a Russian woman has died after falling from the 37th floor of a condominium in the Ratchathewi district of Bangkok. The woman, whose name has not been released, lived there with her partner. The police, led by Pol. Col. Watcharawee Thammasaema from Phaya Thai Police Station, are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident. At this stage, no further details have been disclosed as officers work to gather evidence and witness statements at the scene. A security guard at the condominium reported that around 3 PM, they heard someone shouting that a person had fallen. On investigation, they found the deceased, who had fallen from the 37th floor of the 44-storey building. The security guard mentioned that the deceased was not familiar to him due to the frequent coming and going of foreign residents. However, it was known that she lived with her male partner, who is approximately 35 years old. Following the incident, police escorted the partner from their residence around 6:30 PM, visibly distressed, reported Amarin TV. The investigation continues as authorities seek to understand the full circumstances of the fall. -- 2024-12-03

Thai Police Capture Biggest Call Centre Scam Boss Near Cambodia Border Picture courtesy: MGR online In a decisive move against cybercrime, Thailand's Crime Suppression Division has apprehended Demin Wen, a 35-year-old Chinese national believed to helm one of the country's largest call scam operations. The arrest took place near the Cambodian border, specifically in Ban Non Sao Ae village within Sa Kaeo’s Aranyaprathet district. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345187-thai-police-capture-biggest-call-centre-scam-boss-near-cambodia-border/

Picture courtesy: MGR online In a decisive move against cybercrime, Thailand's Crime Suppression Division has apprehended Demin Wen, a 35-year-old Chinese national believed to helm one of the country's largest call scam operations. The arrest took place near the Cambodian border, specifically in Ban Non Sao Ae village within Sa Kaeo’s Aranyaprathet district. The arrest, announced by Pol Maj Gen Montree Theskhan, follows a meticulously executed operation targeting a series of scam call centres that have become a plague in the region. Demin Wen is suspected of orchestrating a sophisticated network involving numerous SIM boxes, SIM cards, and other crucial telecommunications equipment. These tools were allegedly housed in various rental properties across Chiang Mai province, strategically used to perpetuate scams. Authorities had previously raided these buildings, detaining Mr Wen's Thai wife who was allegedly tasked with overseeing operations. The raids were fruitful, leading to the seizure of an extensive arsenal: 642 SIM boxes, around 590,000 SIM cards, 72 computers, and 1,455 mobile phones were confiscated. The magnitude of this operation highlights the staggering scale of the fraudulent activities. Picture courtesy: MGR online Upon the initial crackdown, Wen narrowly evaded capture, fleeing from Chiang Mai to Nakhon Sawan where he abandoned his vehicle before making his way to Bangkok by bus. His escape was reportedly facilitated by his Chinese wife, Yin Xiaoying, who allegedly orchestrated a further retreat to Sa Kaeo, teetering on the edge of Cambodia. In a twist, Demin Wen professed ignorance of his Thai wife's arrest, claiming his intent was merely to visit the Rong Kluea market in Sa Kaeo. This statement, however, failed to convince authorities who had meticulously tracked his movements. Picture courtesy: MGR online Adding to the saga, Yin Xiaoying, aged 37, was apprehended separately at Suvarnabhumi Airport, effectively truncating their getaway plans. This operation underscores the cross-border complexity of cybercrime and exposes the vulnerabilities exploited by scam networks, which target unsuspecting victims both locally and globally. With a combined cache of equipment potentially worth millions in Thai Baht, the ramifications of this takedown are expected to resonate through criminal circles, serving as both a deterrent and a call to action for enhanced international cooperation against such illicit schemes. The successful apprehension of Demin Wen and his accomplices marks a significant triumph for Thai law enforcement. The move also signals a robust stance against organised scams, albeit amid global efforts to curb such transnational criminal activities. As the investigation unfolds, further insights into the scale and operations of these call scam networks are anticipated, offering potential lessons for other nations grappling with similar challenges, reported MGR online. -- 2024-12-03

Thai monk killed, 5 injured in Buddha statue collapse - video By Petch Petpailin One of the injured monks, Paiwan Wantangphong. | Photo via Amarin TV Locals believe a mysterious destructive force caused the collapse of a Buddha statue at a monastery on the banks of the Mekong River in the Isaan province of Amnat Charoen on November 29, killing one monk and injuring five others. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345175-thai-monk-killed-5-injured-in-buddha-statue-collapse-video/

Grounded: Thai AirAsia denies ticket fraud, blames airline app By Petch Petpailin Photo by ท้อปท่องเที่ยว : Topwstrip via Facebook/ Fly AirAsia Thai AirAsia denied allegations of ticket fraud, stating that the issue stemmed from its application, which was managed by its supplier. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345162-grounded-thai-airasia-denies-ticket-fraud-blames-airline-app/

Bangkok Reigns as Top Travel Spot for 2025 Bangkok has been named the most-booked destination in the world for 2025 by Agoda, with Thailand coming in as the second most popular country for tourists. This was announced by deputy government spokesperson Sasikarn Wattanachan, highlighting Thailand’s growing status as a major travel hotspot. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345167-bangkok-reigns-as-top-travel-spot-for-2025/

to continue: Thailand Live Tuesday 3 December 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1345154-thailand-live-tuesday-3-december-2024/

An incident involving an Italian backpacker has surfaced in Pattaya, with CCTV footage capturing the man stealing money from an apartment counter and failing to pay a Thai woman for her services. The owner of the apartment has raised alarms, urging Pattaya residents to remain cautious. Italian Backpacker Caught Stealing & Avoiding Payment in Pattaya Apartment Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1345126-italian-backpacker-caught-stealing-avoiding-payment-in-pattaya-apartment /

Ex-Commerce Minister Boonsong Freed on Parole After 7 Years File photo courtesy: Siam Rath In a significant development today, Thailand's former Commerce Minister Boonsong Teriyapirom has been released on parole after serving seven years of a 10-year sentence. The release took place at a prison hospital in Bangkok, with Boonsong now heading back to his home province of Chiang Mai. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345153-ex-commerce-minister-boonsong-freed-on-parole-after-7-years/

Photo courtesy: Siam Rath In a significant development today, Thailand's former Commerce Minister Boonsong Teriyapirom has been released on parole after serving seven years of a 10-year sentence. The release took place at a prison hospital in Bangkok, with Boonsong now heading back to his home province of Chiang Mai. However, freedom comes with conditions — he must wear an electronic monitoring (EM) ankle bracelet and remain under supervision for the next three years and five months. Boonsong's jail term was the result of a high-profile misconduct case tied to a controversial rice subsidy scheme. This programme was linked to former Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra's administration, a time of considerable political upheaval in Thailand. Despite the initial 48-year sentence meted out in 2017, his sentence was reduced to 10 years in 2021. The reduction followed a review of his involvement in the scandal, reportedly reducing his culpability in the misconduct. The former minister's case is entwined with the broader political landscape of Thailand. He is widely regarded as a key ally of Yaowapa "Jay Dang" Wongsawat, sister to Thaksin Shinawatra, Thailand's former Prime Minister and the de facto leader of the Pheu Thai Party. This political connection underscores the persistent influence of the Shinawatra family in Thai politics. The rice subsidy scheme Boonsong was embroiled in aimed to boost rice prices to benefit Thai farmers but ended up being plagued by corruption and inefficiency. The scheme's failures resulted in massive losses, with significant financial implications that translated to approximately 154 billion Thai Baht in damages. The Shinawatra government, under Yingluck, faced severe backlash due to these economic missteps. Interestingly, Boonsong's release comes amid speculation regarding the possible return of Yingluck Shinawatra to Thailand. She fled the country in 2017 to avoid a prison sentence related to the same subsidy programme. Her brother, Thaksin, has hinted at Yingluck's return from self-imposed exile, possibly to coincide with the upcoming Songkran festival in April 2024. This potential return is likely to reignite political discourse in the country. Additionally, attention now turns to Boonsong's deputy, Poom Sarapol, who was convicted under similar charges. Whether Poom will be extended the same parole privileges remains uncertain, but it signals ongoing discussions about justice and political accountability in Thailand, reported Thai Newsroom. Boonsong's parole highlights the enduring complexities of Thai political dynamics and corruption cases. It serves as a reminder of the long shadows cast by economic policies and political affiliations in shaping the country's contemporary narrative. -- 2024-12-02

Heavy rainfall warning for nine Thai provinces by Ryan Turner Image via KhaoSod The Meteorological Department of Thailand (TMD) issued a weather warning for heavy to very heavy rainfall impacting nine provinces, with sea waves expected to rise over 2 metres. The upper regions of Thailand are experiencing cooler temperatures, with the northern part witnessing lows of 16 degrees Celsius (°C). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345110-heavy-rainfall-warning-for-nine-thai-provinces/

Pattaya Flourishes from Quiet Fishing Village to Vibrant Tourist Hub Picture courtesy: TAT Pattaya Once a serene fishing village along Thailand's Eastern Gulf Coast, Pattaya has morphed into a bustling tourism powerhouse over the decades. This remarkable transformation springs from strategic development, increased infrastructure investment, and an expansive range of attractions that beckon global visitors. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345115-pattaya-flourishes-from-quiet-fishing-village-to-vibrant-tourist-hub/

Picture courtesy: TAT Pattaya Once a serene fishing village along Thailand's Eastern Gulf Coast, Pattaya has morphed into a bustling tourism powerhouse over the decades. This remarkable transformation springs from strategic development, increased infrastructure investment, and an expansive range of attractions that beckon global visitors. Back in the 1970s, Pattaya was a humble seaside community primarily sustained by fishing. Its untouched beaches and serene ambiance began attracting visitors seeking tranquil escapes. The Vietnam War played a crucial role, as American soldiers deployed in the region frequented Pattaya for leisure, igniting the town's initial tourism spark. By the 1980s and 1990s, Pattaya was rapidly urbanising. New hotels, restaurants, and entertainment spots emerged to accommodate the swelling numbers of tourists from home and abroad. The city soon earned a reputation for its lively nightlife, drawing visitors worldwide. However, such growth sparked concerns about overcrowding and environmental strain. Realising the importance of sustainable tourism, Pattaya began shifting gears in the 2000s. Efforts to bolster infrastructure included improved roads, a modernised public transport network, and facilities catering to family-friendly tourism. Theme parks, shopping centres, and cultural landmarks sprang up, appealing to a broader range of visitors. Events like the Pattaya International Fireworks Festival and various music and sports events have further bolstered the city's dynamic image. Fast forward to today, Pattaya is far more than a beach destination. The city offers cultural experiences, eco-tourism, and luxury amenities. S Strategic projects like the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) and a commitment to green initiatives guide its growth plans. Pattaya is now favoured by retirees, families, and international investors, expanding its appeal beyond conventional tourism. From its roots as a simple fishing village, Pattaya embodies change and innovation, standing as a testament to Thailand’s tourism prowess. The city's journey underscores its resilience and adaptability, securing its spot as a major global tourism player. Whether exploring cultural treasures, indulging in luxury, or enjoying its famous nightlife, visitors find Pattaya a compelling destination ready to enchant for many years to come, reported Pattaya Mail. -- 2024-12-02