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Hat Yai Motorcycle Taxi Overcharges Malaysian Tourist, Police File 4 Charges Picture courtesy of Daily News A motorcycle taxi driver in Hatyai has been arrested for overcharging a Malaysian tourist and now faces four charges, including vehicle seizure. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356014-hat-yai-motorcycle-taxi-overcharges-malaysian-tourist-police-file-4-charges/

Picture courtesy of Daily News A motorcycle taxi driver in Hat Yai has been arrested for overcharging a Malaysian tourist and now faces four charges, including vehicle seizure. A Malaysian tourist shared on Facebook, in Chinese, about their experience in Hat Yai, Thailand, which ended at the police station. After using a motorcycle taxi service, the tourist was charged THB 1,000 in fines at the police station and paid THB 300 for the ride, deemed overpriced. Upon learning of the incident, Police Lieutenant Colonel Sitthichai Pradap of the Hat Yai station ordered traffic police to locate and apprehend the motorcycle taxi driver. The driver, named Mr. Phuwathat, was found near Hat Yai’s municipal office with his white and black Honda Click bike and arrested on four charges: overcharging, improper vehicle use, not providing safety helmets, and overloading passengers. The motorcycle has been seized for evidence. Mr. Phuwathat explained that he initially agreed to transport one passenger, but when two people showed up, he charged accordingly. He apologised for the overcharge. Lieutenant Colonel Sitthichai stated that, in collaboration with local transport authorities, there is an initiative to standardise fares for tuk-tuks and motorcycle taxis. Public notices will display fixed rates, like a 1.3-kilometre trip from Hat Yai Station to the Clock Tower costing THB 20 per person. If passengers encounter unfair charges, they can lodge a complaint via 074-236-100, and the Hat Yai police will address the issue. Based on a story by Daily News -- 2025-03-28

Labour Minister Demands Safety Overhaul Following Accidents on Rama II Road Pictures courtesy of KhaoSod Labour Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn has called for urgent safety reforms at a major construction site on Rama II Road, in response to multiple accidents causing fatalities and injuries. A critical meeting with Italian-Thai Development (ITD) is slated for tomorrow, March 28, to address these issues head-on. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355976-labour-minister-demands-safety-overhaul-following-accidents-on-rama-ii-road/

Thai Restaurant Industry Faces Crisis as Purchases Plummet by 40% Photo courtesy of Samurai Gourmet Thailand's restaurant industry is grappling with a severe downturn, with consumer purchasing power plummeting by over 40% in early 2025, according to Thanivarn Kulmongkol, President of the Thai Restaurant Association. As economic recovery slows and incomes stagnate, consumers are prioritising savings over dining out, exacerbating financial strain on eateries. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355975-thai-restaurant-industry-faces-crisis-as-purchases-plummet-by-40/

to continue: Thailand Live Friday 28 March 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1355974-thailand-live-friday-28-march-2025/

ChatGPT Update Raises Red Flags Over Fake Bank Slips Photo courtesy of Bualuangmobile banking A recent revelation about ChatGPT's capabilities has sent ripples through the online financial community. Technology blogger Kafaak has highlighted how the AI can now craft near-perfect replicas of bank transfer slips, complete with watermarks, raising serious fraud alarms. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355978-chatgpt-update-raises-red-flags-over-fake-bank-slips/

Thailand Greenlights Entertainment Complex Bill with 10% Casino Space Restriction Picture courtesy of Tsogo Sun The Cabinet has greenlit the game-changing Entertainment Complex Bill. This new legislation puts strict limits on casino floor sizes, allowing them to occupy only 10% of the entertainment venue's total area. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355968-thailand-greenlights-entertainment-complex-bill-with-10-casino-space-restriction/

Thailand Greenlights Entertainment Complex Bill with 10% Casino Space Restriction Picture courtesy of Tsogo Sun The Cabinet has greenlit the game-changing Entertainment Complex Bill. This new legislation puts strict limits on casino floor sizes, allowing them to occupy only 10% of the entertainment venue's total area. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355968-thailand-greenlights-entertainment-complex-bill-with-10-casino-space-restriction/

Picture courtesy of Tsogo Sun The Cabinet has greenlit the game-changing Entertainment Complex Bill. This new legislation puts strict limits on casino floor sizes, allowing them to occupy only 10% of the entertainment venue's total area. The brainchild of the Finance Ministry, this bill aims to turbocharge Thailand’s economy while keeping social issues in check. During the bill's revision by the Council of State, the focus was on balancing economic and social interests. Four public hearings led to a massive thumbs-up from the majority, with 80% of the 71,289 participants backing this legislation. With Cabinet approval in the bag, the bill now awaits thumbs from the House of Representatives. So, what’s inside this shiny new bill? Well, the Prime Minister and Interior Minister are set to co-pilot the law’s delivery. The policy regarding the operations and locations of these entertainment hubs will be closely monitored by a dedicated committee. This committee not only lays down frameworks but also appoints key personnel to oversee operations. In an interesting twist, public voices will play a critical role, as residents near proposed sites get a say through public hearings. The bill also lays down strict rules for casinos, treating them like financial institutions under money laundering laws. It’s not just a blanket gamble-free-for-all, as Thai nationals must meet a 50 million baht deposit rule before they set foot inside. Licensees are heavily policed, with strong penalties lined up for non-compliance. They've been warned against luring extra gamblers or cranking up betting amounts. New criminal cock-ups like organising online gambling or live-streaming casino actions are now big no-no's. Overall, the government is keen to spin these entertainment complexes as more than just betting dens. It's a master plan to usher in a new era of economic sparkle while keeping the social order in check. Based on a story by The Nation -- 2025-03-27

Phuket’s Big Push: Electric Buses And Big Sports Events Boost Island Photo courtesy of Mcot Phuket is taking a big leap into the future with the introduction of two shiny, new 18-seat open-top electric buses. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355948-phuket’s-big-push-electric-buses-and-big-sports-events-boost-island/

Photo courtesy of Mcot Phuket is taking a big leap into the future with the introduction of two shiny, new 18-seat open-top electric buses. Aimed at cutting down air pollution and boosting tourism, these eco-friendly buses come with a dash of culture, sporting illustrations of the island’s renowned Sino-European architecture. It’s a smart move, not just for the air quality, but also for revving up the tourism engine. Electric Vehicles (Thailand) Plc is behind these city-sleek transport innovations, likely to become as iconic as Tuk Tuks for tourists. This isn't just about cleaner air. Phuket is stepping up its safety game as well, with a new wave of CCTV cameras planned for public parks, intersections, and communities to keep everyone safe and sound. All of this high-tech surveillance will relay critical information to the island’s command centre around the clock. As if that wasn't exciting enough, Phuket is also preparing to host two massive international sports events. First up is the Toyota Phuket International Series 2025 badminton championship from April 1st to 6th. Following the shuttles, Gymnasium 1 will be bustling with activity again from August 22nd-27th for the FIVB Volleyball Women’s World Championship 2025. Both events promise to draw crowds, jazz up sports tourism, and fatten local wallets. The 4,000-seat Saphan Hin Sports Centre is slated to be the hub of activity before it temporarily closes for a revamp starting in June. These initiatives are geared up to not only welcome more tourists but also uplift the island's community spirit and economic health like never before. Based on a story by The Thaiger -- 2025-03-27

Toxic Dust Alert: Air Quality in Thailand Reaches Hazardous Levels File photo for reference only Dangerous levels of smog have engulfed Thailand's North, Northeast, and parts of the Central and Eastern regions, causing air quality alarms to ring across the country. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355935-toxic-dust-alert-air-quality-in-thailand-reaches-hazardous-levels/

File photo for reference only Dangerous levels of smog have engulfed Thailand's North, Northeast, and parts of the Central and Eastern regions, causing air quality alarms to ring across the country. The Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA) revealed staggering figures on Thursday morning, with some areas experiencing perilous concentrations of PM2.5 particles. Over the last 24 hours, a blanket of hazardous smog has smothered 19 provinces, leaving residents desperate for relief. Mae Hong Son has been worst hit, peaking at 122.5µg/m³ of PM2.5, starkly exceeding the 37.5µg/m³ safety limit. Following closely are provinces such as Phayao, Nan, and Trat, marking a critical public health challenge that demands urgent attention. Some 36 provinces are feeling the effects of elevated PM2.5 levels from 37.7 to 73.7µg/m³, a situation flagged as concerning and starting to affect public health. Notable among them are Kanchanaburi and Nakhon Ratchasima, which are now experiencing smog-related health worries. Meanwhile, Bangkok and 16 other provinces are faring slightly better, yet remain within a moderate range of 25.3 to 37.5µg/m³ of PM2.5. On the brighter side, the southern provinces, including Narathiwat and Phatthalung, are enjoying comparatively good air quality. However, the toxic haze still poses a plight requiring immediate intervention to safeguard the health of millions. Addressing this smog menace is vital, as the impact of these dust particles on health could escalate, affecting both the very young and the elderly. Based on a story by Bangkok Post -- 2025-03-27

No Changes at the Top: PM Paetongtarn Rejects Cabinet Reshuffle Thailand Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, third left, reacts after a no-confidence vote against her was defeated in Bangkok, Thailand, Wednesday, March 26, 2025. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra isn't budging on a cabinet reshuffle, following her impressive victory in a no-confidence vote. She cruised through with 319 votes to 162 and only seven abstentions, leaving her position unshaken. With confidence high, she declared no plans for a cabinet shake-up. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355899-no-changes-at-the-top-pm-paetongtarn-rejects-cabinet-reshuffle/

Thai Sang Thai Chaos as 'Cobra MPs' Back PM Paetongtarn Picture courtesy of The Nation In a stunning twist, five MPs from the Thai Sang Thai Party have defied their leader by backing Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. The rogue MPs’ actions have sparked outrage within the party, leaving founder Sudarat Keyuraphan fuming and taking to social media to voice her anger. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355894-thai-sang-thai-chaos-as-cobra-mps-back-pm-paetongtarn/

Thailand Ends Corporal Punishment, Ushers in New Era for Kids Refrence picture courtesy of Freepik Thailand took a historic step by axing all forms of corporal punishment, carving a brighter future for kids across the nation. The monumental change to Section 1567 was published in the Royal Gazette on Monday, March 24, cementing Thailand’s spot as the 68th nation worldwide to make homes, schools, and care centres free from violent discipline. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355893-thailand-ends-corporal-punishment-ushers-in-new-era-for-kids/

Refrence picture courtesy of Freepik Thailand took a historic step by axing all forms of corporal punishment, carving a brighter future for kids across the nation. The monumental change to Section 1567 was published in the Royal Gazette on Monday, March 24, cementing Thailand’s spot as the 68th nation worldwide to make homes, schools, and care centres free from violent discipline. UNICEF Thailand hailed this as a giant leap for children’s rights, aligning perfectly with the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC). This change serves as a sturdy reminder that a child’s wellbeing tops the list in every decision impacting them. It’s a genuine stride towards nurturing positive parenting. Back in 2022, a survey by the National Statistical Office knocked us breathless. It unveiled that 54% of Thai children under 14 had faced the brunt of physical or mental punishment at home. Sure, it’s a dip from 75% in 2015, but UNICEF barely lets us off the hook, stating the ideal is zero violence against kids. UNICEF Thailand expanded on the victory, saying this new law sets a precedent, but underlined the need for the government to back it with initiatives teaching non-violent discipline. Apparently, simply banning corporal punishment falls short without supporting parents with educational resources about alternatives. Collaborative efforts between the government, civil society, and communities, according to UNICEF, are crucial moving forward. The end goal? To obliterate violence against kids and protect their rights robustly, one law, one community initiative at a time. Despite challenges still looming, the passage of this law is a powerful nod to better child protection and brighter prospects for the youth across Thailand. It brings hope of accelerating further advances in the welfare of children nationally. In short, it’s a win worth celebrating. Based on a story by The Thaiger -- 2025-03-27

Thailand Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, third left, reacts after a no-confidence vote against her was defeated in Bangkok, Thailand, Wednesday, March 26, 2025. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra isn't budging on a cabinet reshuffle, following her impressive victory in a no-confidence vote. She cruised through with 319 votes to 162 and only seven abstentions, leaving her position unshaken. With confidence high, she declared no plans for a cabinet shake-up. Questions arose about her father, Thaksin Shinawatra, former PM, influencing any potential changes. Paetongtarn stayed calm, saying she’s open to opinion but has no immediate reshuffle intentions. Thaksin himself had no objections to her decision. Despite the coalition cruising quietly, opposition parties aren't letting it slide. Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut, leading the People’s Party, called for investigations over the information revealed in the heated censure debate. The spotlight is on tax matters, suggesting Thaksin’s family should toe the line. The two-day debate saw fiery accusations. Opposition grilled Paetongtarn on her governance, alleged tax evasion, and hovering influence from her father. High electricity bills and low farm prices were critical issues, alongside her controversial cash handout policies. Concerns were also raised on her economic comments like the benefits of a strong Thai Baht to exports. Paetongtarn faced accusations over potential misdirection surrounding her father's health and influence. Thaksin, reportedly unwell, stayed in a private ward at Police General Hospital, dodging jail time. The family's swanky assets, notably the Alpine Golf Resort and a luxury Khao Yai retreat, are under scrutiny. With politics heating up, will PM Paetongtarn's firm stance hold? Keep eyes peeled for the unfolding saga. Based on a story by Bangkok Post. -- 2025-03-27

Picture courtesy of The Nation In a stunning twist, five MPs from the Thai Sang Thai Party have defied their leader by backing Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. The rogue MPs’ actions have sparked outrage within the party, leaving founder Sudarat Keyuraphan fuming and taking to social media to voice her anger. The uproar erupted when Sudarat revealed on Facebook that five out of six of her MPs turned heel, supporting the young Pheu Thai leader in the crucial no-confidence vote. By labeling them “cobra MPs,” Sudarat drew from a fable about betrayal, gripping the public’s attention with her fiery rebuke. Her post accused the MPs of sidestepping ethics in pursuit of personal gains while disrespecting the very people who had elected them. Sudarat promised repercussions, insisting that their breach of duty calls for justice from both the populace and the courts. The five renegade members toeing the line differed from their party positions and included Thakorn Tanthasit, Rampoon Tantiwanitchayanon, Supaporn Salabsri, Rung Thurapol, and Adisak Kaewmoongkhunsup. According to Sudarat, their actions are a betrayal of trust, yet she fell short of announcing immediate legal steps. This incident is not unprecedented. When Paetongtarn first ascended to power, similar defiance was shown by the entire Thai Sang Thai faction, ending in an unresolved threat of expulsion by Sudarat. The MPs then reinforced their stance by holding an executive board majority, effectively tying Sudarat's hands. As tensions simmer, the core of Thai Sang Thai seems on the verge of fracturing. The drama begs the question: Can Sudarat wrest back control and assert her leadership, or will the cracks continue to widen? Only time will tell how the shaken party navigates this tumultuous terrain. Based on a story by The Thaiger -- 2025-03-27

Thailand's Prisons Overflow as Overcrowding Hits Alarming Level File photo via Benar News Thailand's jails are under fire as overcrowding explodes, with new measures yet to materialise. The annual report from FIDH and the Union for Civil Liberty paints a grim picture of the situation, highlighting a 12% hike beyond the system's capacity. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355920-thailands-prisons-overflow-as-overcrowding-hits-alarming-level/

File photo via Benar News Thailand's jails are under fire as overcrowding explodes, with new measures yet to materialise. The annual report from FIDH and the Union for Civil Liberty paints a grim picture of the situation, highlighting a 12% hike beyond the system's capacity. Despite a fall in drug convictions over the past three years, 73% of inmates remain imprisoned for drug-related offences, with new drug laws potentially worsening the issue. In 2024, criticism from two UN bodies put Thailand's prison system back in the spotlight. The Committee Against Torture and a Working Group focusing on discrimination against women and girls stressed that overcrowding was top of their agenda. Despite awareness, Thai authorities lag behind in rolling out alternatives to incarceration, with reports indicating stalled progress. Vice-President of FIDH, Fatia Maulidiyanti, called for immediate reforms. She stressed that harsher drug laws could inflate prison numbers and advised prioritising rehabilitation over punishment in line with global norms. The number of those under death sentences also grew, hitting a post-2020 high of 364. Reports from inside these facilities reveal a bleak reality. Prisoners face cramped cells, poor-quality food, and inadequate healthcare. Allegations also include unethical punishment and unequal treatment based on socio-economic status. Limited supplies and activities further dampen inmates' prospects, with many fearing retaliation if they complain. The tragic death of human rights advocate Netiporn Sanesangkhom in May 2024 underscores the dire need for change. Though things like menstrual product supply have improved, a serious overhaul of Thailand's prison system is critical for meeting international standards. As it stands, Thailand's crowded cells cry out for meaningful reform. Based on a story by FIDH -- 2025-03-27

Woman Found Murdered in Luxury Sukhumvit Hotel in Bangkok Pictures courtesy of Wokpoint News A chilling discovery was made in a luxury hotel on Sukhumvit Road, where the body of a 30-year-old woman was found wrapped in bloodstained sheets. Authorities identified the deceased as Praowpilas, whose demise may be linked to her volatile relationship with a Singaporean boyfriend who left the hotel a day prior. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355918-woman-found-murdered-in-luxury-sukhumvit-hotel-in-bangkok/

Pictures courtesy of Wokpoint News BAMGKOK - A chilling discovery was made in a luxury hotel on Sukhumvit Road, where the body of a 30-year-old woman was found wrapped in bloodstained sheets. Authorities identified the deceased as Praowpilas, whose demise may be linked to her volatile relationship with a Singaporean boyfriend who left the hotel a day prior. On 26th March, around 6:20 PM, police from Thonglor station responded to a murder report at a hotel on Sukhumvit Soi 39, Khlong Tan Nuea, Bangkok. Thonglor officers, medical examiners from Chulalongkorn Hospital, forensic staff, and volunteers from the Poh Teck Tung Foundation swiftly arrived at the scene to investigate. The victim was found in a 22nd-floor room, where the door was unlocked and the air conditioning left on. Her body was discovered in the bathroom, wrapped in a blue blanket and bloodied white sheet. She was partially unclothed, with a white cloth tied around her head surrounded by significant blood loss. Personal items, including luxury bags and watches, were reportedly missing, leading officials to collect evidence from the scene. Friends of the deceased reported losing contact since the evening of 24th March. After filing a missing person's report with Thonglor police, they were escorted to her room, where they found the disturbing scene. The victim was recognised by identifying tattoos after removing the blanket. Praowpilas had a history of frequent disputes and physical altercations with her boyfriend, Mr Daniel, a Singaporean national. Building records revealed he checked out of the hotel on 25th March at around 3 PM. Investigators are currently reviewing CCTV footage to locate and question the boyfriend, who is a suspect in this tragic case. Based on a story by Workpoint News -- 2025-03-27

Similan Islands Fraud: Tourists Falsely Registered as Thais Picture courtesy of Daily News Authorities have unveiled a scheme at the Similan Islands where foreign tourists were falsely recorded as Thai to exploit ticket price differences, profiting by 400%. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355915-similan-islands-fraud-tourists-falsely-registered-as-thais/

Picture courtesy of Daily News Authorities have unveiled a scheme at the Similan Islands where foreign tourists were falsely recorded as Thai to exploit ticket price differences, profiting by 400%. In a surprise inspection, Yutthana Wimolmuang, head of Trang Province's Anti-Corruption Division, and his team discovered irregularities at the Similan Islands National Park. Despite only ten Thai visitors being registered via the E-ticket system, 50 foreign tourists were counted on-site, revealing a fraudulent operation of reselling tickets. This has led to the relocation of the park's chief, Lai-Gen Rittikorn Noonloy, pending further investigation. On 27 March, further inquiries exposed significant discrepancies in park revenues. Although foreign visitors increased, the E-ticket system inaccurately recorded them as Thais. This allowed the culprits to pocket the price difference, as Thai tickets are cheaper than those for foreigners. The ticket prices are as follows: Thais pay 50 baht for children and 100 baht for adults, whereas foreigners are charged 250 baht for children and 500 baht for adults. This discrepancy permits perpetrators to gain a 400% profit by registering foreign tourists as Thais. For instance, if 1,000 foreign tourists pay the Thai rate, the illegal profit could total 400,000 baht daily. The operation highlights severe exploitation of national park revenues. Authorities are urged to expedite a thorough investigation and enforce legal action. Based on a story by Daily News. -- 2025-03-27