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Thaksin Health Drama: Police General Hospital's Chief Doctor Requests Justice Picture courtesy of AMARIN TV The chief doctor at Bangkok Police Hospital is fighting back against the decision by the Medical Council to punish doctors involved in the care of Thaksin Shinawatra. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360609-thaksin-health-drama-police-general-hospitals-chief-doctor-requests-justice/

Picture courtesy of AMARIN TV The chief doctor at Bangkok Police Hospital is fighting back against the decision by the Medical Council to punish doctors involved in the care of Thaksin Shinawatra. Dr. Taweesilp Wetchavitarn has sent his lawyer to the Ministry of Public Health to challenge the council's ruling. The Medical Council had suspended the medical licences of two doctors and issued a warning to a third for admitting Thaksin, the former Prime Minister, under questionable circumstances. Dr. Taweesilp argues that the Medical Council's decision was based on incomplete information, asserting that Thaksin's admission followed regulations due to his specific medical condition. The saga began after the bigwig political figure was transferred from Bangkok Remand Prison's hospital to Police Hospital, where he stayed for six months before being released on parole. The issue revolves around Thaksin not being clinically found "critically ill," contradicting prior public claims. Concerned about his professional reputation, Dr. Taweesilp regards the situation as a personal issue, thus prompting him to dispatch lawyer Mr. Netithorn Lintakul with his appeal. The appeal seeks to overturn the Medical Council's decision, considered damaging and based on insufficient data. The appeal was received by an assistant to the Public Health Minister, Lt. Col. Dr. Thanakrit Chit-areerat, highlighting the high-profile nature of this medical and political conundrum. Minister Somsak Thepsuthin, who also holds a position in the Medical Council, could veto the council's decision. If this happens, a minimum of two-thirds of councillors must agree to uphold any resolutions regarding Thaksin's health conditions. The outcome could influence both medical governance and political narratives in Thailand. As this legal tussle unfolds, the crossroads of politics and healthcare in Thailand is magnified, leaving the nation watching closely. The tug-of-war between asserting medical authority and political influence continues with public and professional ramifications. All eyes are on the next move from the Public Health Ministry, Medical Council, and associated political entities. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai Newsroom 2025-05-14

Thaksin's Prison Probe: Supreme Court Inquiry Launches June 13 Picture courtesy of Thailand Court Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra is set to attend a Supreme Court inquiry on June 13. This inquiry will explore allegations that his jail sentence may not have been properly enforced. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360604-thaksins-prison-probe-supreme-court-inquiry-launches-june-13/

Picture courtesy of Thailand Court Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra is set to attend a Supreme Court inquiry on June 13. This inquiry will explore allegations that his jail sentence may not have been properly enforced. The announcement comes from Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, Thaksin's daughter, confirming her father's participation during their Monday meeting. This contradicts prior statements from Thaksin's lawyer, Winyat Chartmontri, who suggested that a written defence would be submitted instead of a personal appearance. The inquiry follows a controversial decision by the Medical Council of Thailand (MCT), which is pursuing disciplinary action against three doctors involved in Thaksin's care at the Police General Hospital (PGH). The MCT's focus is on reassessing the authenticity of Thaksin's medical condition that permitted his extended hospital stay outside prison walls. Paetongtarn reaffirmed yesterday that her father had serious health issues which necessitated continuous medical treatment from abroad until he returned to Thailand for his prison sentence. Thaksin's saga began when he returned to Thailand after years of self-imposed exile and faced an eight-year prison sentence. However, this sentence was reduced to one year through royal clemency. On August 22, 2023, Thaksin, citing health problems, was transferred from custody to the PGH. He stayed there until being paroled in February last year, sparking widespread public debate about whether he received preferential treatment. Public interest in this case is high, given Thaksin's prominent political status and the implications of the Court's findings. This judicial inquiry seeks to ensure the credibility of Thailand's legal system by evaluating whether due processes were compromised during Thaksin's prison term. The outcome could have significant political repercussions and influence public confidence in the judicial system's integrity. In summary, Thaksin Shinawatra's forthcoming court inquiry raises serious questions about the enforcement of his prison sentence and whether prolonged medical treatment was justified. The findings of the Supreme Court could affect perceptions of fairness and equality in Thailand's legal proceedings. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-05-14

Chiang Mai Named Safest City in ASEAN for 2025 Chiang Mai Moat. Picture courtesy of Wikipedia. Chiang Mai has been recognised as the safest city in ASEAN for 2025, according to Numbeo. The city topped the list which evaluated crime levels and feelings of safety both day and night. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360603-chiang-mai-named-safest-city-in-asean-for-2025/

Chiang Mai Moat. Picture courtesy of Wikipedia. Chiang Mai has been recognised as the safest city in ASEAN for 2025, according to Numbeo. The city topped the list which evaluated crime levels and feelings of safety both day and night. Numbeo, a Serbian-based website that offers users data on living costs and quality of life, ranked the cities using public perception of crime, as well as concerns about specific criminal activities like robbery, theft, assault, and public safety threats. Here are the top 10 safest cities in ASEAN for 2025: Chiang Mai, Thailand - 78.2 points Singapore - 77.4 points Davao, Philippines - 71.6 points Penang, Malaysia - 69.7 points Hanoi, Vietnam - 65.9 points Makati, Philippines - 61.5 points Bangkok, Thailand - 60.7 points Iloilo, Philippines - 59.3 points Pattaya, Thailand - 53.9 points Johor Bahru, Malaysia - 51.3 points Adapted by ASEAN Now from Khaosod 2025-05-14

Thai PM Paetongtarn Laments Lost Chance for Thaksin-Trump Economic Chat AP File Photo/Wason Wanichakorn) Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra recently voiced her regret over a lost chance for former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra to engage in crucial tariff discussions with US President Donald Trump. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360601-thai-pm-paetongtarn-laments-lost-chance-for-thaksin-trump-economic-chat/

AP File Photo/Wason Wanichakorn Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra recently voiced her regret over a lost chance for former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra to engage in crucial tariff discussions with US President Donald Trump. The chance was eliminated when the Criminal Court declined Thaksin’s request to fly to Qatar for a dinner event on 14 May, where he could have potentially met Trump and his economic team. This meeting was anticipated to provide a platform for dialogue on bilateral trade matters. Paetongtarn reaffirmed Thailand's eagerness to begin negotiation talks with the United States at the opportune moment. A proposal had already been forwarded to the US the week prior, with talks having been in motion among representatives at different tiers, including meetings with the United States Trade Representative (USTR) and at the ministerial level. These talks highlighted Thailand's keenness for closer trade relations. Reflecting on the court's decision, Paetongtarn stated the instance as a missed opportunity for direct engagement between Thaksin and President Trump. Highlighting a long-standing acquaintance between Trump and Thaksin from Trump’s initial presidency, she noted, "Their meeting and exchange of ideas could have been incredibly beneficial for the nation." This personal rapport could have unlocked new avenues for bilateral trade collaboration and economic alliances. The Prime Minister further shed light on concerns regarding a previous US decision to suspend visas for Thai officials. This was a response to Thailand’s repatriation actions of Uyghurs to China. Paetongtarn mentioned the need to check on the status of this suspension, yet confidently insisted that ongoing negotiations ought not to be affected. In summary, Thailand remains resolute in pursuing trade negotiations with the US, in spite of the recent hurdles. The government's proactive approach in engaging US officials underlines its commitment to fostering an amicable and robust economic relationship. Meanwhile, monitoring the visa implications will remain a priority as talks continue. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Nation 2025-05-14

Bangkok Building Collapse: 17 Arrests Sought After Deadly Disaster File photo for reference only Police in Bangkok are poised to issue arrest warrants for 17 individuals connected to the catastrophic collapse of the State Audit Office (SAO) building. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360587-bangkok-building-collapse-17-arrests-sought-after-deadly-disaster/

File photo for reference only Police in Bangkok are poised to issue arrest warrants for 17 individuals connected to the catastrophic collapse of the State Audit Office (SAO) building. The March 28 disaster occurred following an earthquake centred in Myanmar and claimed numerous lives. Those being targeted include engineers, project supervisors, and executives from the construction contractor. The Metropolitan Police Bureau (MPB) spearheaded the extensive investigation, assembling a wealth of evidence. This includes expert insights from the Council of Engineers, the Engineering Institute of Thailand, and Chulalongkorn University, alongside tests on over 300 construction samples. Investigators are targeting individuals from the Italian-Thai Development and China Railway No.10 Engineering Group Co joint venture, as well as construction supervisors and engineers. These suspects may face charges of failing to uphold engineering standards, resulting in fatalities, under Sections 227 and 238 of the Criminal Code. Auditor-General Montien Charoenphol has expressed no personal concerns over these proceedings despite the legal and ethical challenges his office faces. He did, however, commit to full cooperation with ongoing investigations. Mr Montien addressed rumours about the SAO's response to bereaved families, asserting that officials have approached each affected family to express their condolences. The SAO continues to be criticised for inadequate communication and support following the tragedy. The building, located in Chatuchak district and under construction, was the sole high-rise to collapse during the earthquake. At the time of the quake, 109 workers were present; 89 bodies have since been recovered, with seven still missing. Nine individuals sustained injuries, while four workers absent on the day the disaster struck have since returned home safely. Ultimately, the tragedy underscores the need for adherence to strict engineering and construction standards to prevent such occurrences. As the legal process unfolds, the involved parties may face significant legal repercussions amid continued public scrutiny. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-05-14

Thai Cybercrime Unit Arrests Man Over Child Porn Distribution Picture courtesy of Siam Rath Authorities have arrested a middle-aged man for his involvement in disseminating child pornography via a Telegram group. On 13th May, police in Thailand’s cyber division reported the arrest of the 46-year-old man, identified as Mr Salar, who allegedly managed an online group dedicated to sharing illegal content without charging members. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360584-thai-cybercrime-unit-arrests-man-over-child-porn-distribution/

Picture courtesy of Siam Rath Authorities have arrested a middle-aged man for his involvement in disseminating child pornography via a Telegram group. On 13th May, police in Thailand’s cyber division reported the arrest of the 46-year-old man, identified as Mr Salar, who allegedly managed an online group dedicated to sharing illegal content without charging members. The arrest followed a prior operation on 30th August last year when TICAC, the police unit focused on combatting online child sexual exploitation, apprehended another individual, Mr Kraison, for distributing pornography. This investigation led to discovering the Telegram group through links found on a Line Band group also involved in sharing child pornography. Mr Salar was located in Ubon Ratchathani province after a search warrant was issued by Det Udom Provincial Court. Officers conducted a raid that uncovered a mobile phone containing evidence that linked Mr Salar to the management of the Telegram group. Police confirmed that the suspect admitted to purchasing the child pornography from another source. The investigation is ongoing to identify and prosecute all individuals connected to this network. Charges against Mr Salar include possession and distribution of child pornography for sexual exploitation, which carries a penalty of up to seven years in prison, a maximum fine of 140,000 Baht, or both. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Siam Rath 2025-05-14

PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra Defends Father's Hospital Stay Amid Scandal Paetongtarn Shinawatra. File photo courtesy of Thai Rath Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has strongly defended her father’s prolonged stay at the Police General Hospital, asserting that his ailment was genuine. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360581-pm-paetongtarn-shinawatra-defends-fathers-hospital-stay-amid-scandal/

Paetongtarn Shinawatra. File photo courtesy of Thai Rath Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has strongly defended her father’s prolonged stay at the Police General Hospital, asserting that his ailment was genuine. This comes in the wake of the Medical Council of Thailand’s recent decision to suspend two doctors and warn another, amid allegations that they provided false medical reports for former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra. The controversy has cast a shadow on the Shinawatra family amid claims of misconduct. The Medical Council’s disciplinary action has ignited speculation, suggesting Thaksin may have exaggerated his illness to avoid serving a corruption sentence. Paetongtarn has countered these suspicions, stating that evidence and facts will be presented in due course. “The order has affected both Thaksin and me, but we’re prepared to clarify everything with evidence,” she asserted, emphasising her father’s prior COVID-19 infection and existing medical documentation from overseas. While the council refrained from naming the sanctioned doctors, reports hint at their ties to the Police General Hospital. Surprisingly, Thaksin, usually a vocal figure in Thai politics and seen as a pivotal influence over the Pheu Thai party and his daughter’s leadership, has stepped back from the spotlight since the council’s decision. His uncharacteristic silence has only heightened intrigue surrounding the matter. Paetongtarn has made it clear that she had no hand in these unfolding events, noting her ascent to prime minister occurred after her father’s hospital discharge and parole. “My father, 72 years old, was severely infected with COVID-19 before returning to Thailand, with supportive medical records from foreign doctors,” she reiterated. As the situation develops, the political landscape in Thailand remains tense, with many awaiting further revelations. The episode underscores ongoing tensions in Thailand's political arena, as questions about integrity and influence loom large. While Paetongtarn remains firm in her defence, the matter continues to provoke public and political discourse, underscoring the complexities facing key players in Thai politics today. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai PBS World 2025-05-14

Thai craft beer boom: New regulations fuel brewery growth Picture courtesy of Asia Times In a monumental move, Thailand's Cabinet has given the thumbs up to a draft ministerial regulation that could reshape the future of alcohol production across the nation. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360579-thai-craft-beer-boom-new-regulations-fuel-brewery-growth/

Picture courtesy of Asia Times In a monumental move, Thailand's Cabinet has given the thumbs up to a draft ministerial regulation that could reshape the future of alcohol production across the nation. Set forth by the Excise Department under the Ministry of Finance, this landmark regulation aims to ease barriers for burgeoning alcohol producers, especially small community distilleries. The initiative aligns with the government's strategy to bolster local craftsmanship and uplift the nation's soft power through homegrown spirits. The regulation is poised to empower smaller breweries and distilleries by allowing craft beer manufacturers and brew pubs to sell their draft beer beyond the confines of their production facilities. This freedom is a golden ticket for small-scale producers to reach broader markets across the nation, driving growth and prosperity within the local alcohol industry. The regulatory changes will not only provide a boost for the beverage sector but also promote the use of local agricultural produce, ultimately enriching community economies. Among the key improvements, community distilleries will now benefit from relaxed location policies. They can set up shop within 100 meters of public water sources, contingent on employing efficient wastewater treatments to curb pollution. This significant shift abolishes previous limitations that put distilleries far from essential resources. Moreover, an exemption from the requirement to operate as a small business for a year means that qualified entrepreneurs can leap directly into establishing medium-sized distilleries, marking a substantial win for competitive growth. Moreover, recent changes have further liberalized Thailand's stringent alcohol laws. The Prime Minister's Office has sanctioned alcohol sales at five types of venues during major Buddhist holidays, offering a pragmatic balance between respect for tradition and economic imperatives. The move is anticipated to de-stigmatize holiday alcohol consumption, steering it away from illegal practices and into a regulated framework. Despite potential cultural sensitivities, Minister of Tourism and Sports Sorawong Tienthong supports the change, citing regulation as key to maintaining control over alcohol sales in tourist-heavy areas. Overall, these regulatory shifts promise to invigorate Thailand's alcohol industry, drive local economic growth, and serve as a catalyst for cultural exchange, celebrating Thai heritage through craft spirits. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Khaosod 2025-05-14

Thai submarine plans sink as Germany halts engine sale Picture: S26T submarine, courtesy of China Daily In a notable development, Germany has officially confirmed it cannot proceed with the sale of submarine engines to Thailand. This decision stems from European Union restrictions on exporting military equipment to China, revealed Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister of Thailand, Phumtham Wechayachai. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360577-thai-submarine-plans-sink-as-germany-halts-engine-sale/

Picture: S26T submarine, courtesy of China Daily In a notable development, Germany has officially confirmed it cannot proceed with the sale of submarine engines to Thailand. This decision stems from European Union restrictions on exporting military equipment to China, revealed Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister of Thailand, Phumtham Wechayachai. The announcement follows discussions held on 13th May with German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius. Thailand's long-standing efforts to acquire these German-made engines, starting from Prayut Chan-o-cha’s tenure, have faced repeated barriers. Initially sanctioned in 2017, the planned procurement of three Chinese submarines, totalling 14,783 million baht, encountered turbulence as Germany enforced its arms embargo affecting China, which subsequently impacted Thailand’s plans. The contemporary hold-up was propelled into the spotlight in early 2022 when Thai opposition flagged the stalled state of submarine construction. The issue originated from China’s adoption of German MTU engines in their designs without prior consultations, as affirmed by Philipp Doert, former German Federal Military Attaché in Thailand. On a positive note, the recent meeting between Wechayachai and Pistorius was not solely focused on the stalled engine deal. commendations flowed as Thailand lauded Germany for hosting the forthcoming 6th United Nations Peacekeeping Ministerial Meeting 2025 and the newly minted German administration under Friedrich Merz. Continual stability in defense policy was highlighted by Pistorius’s retention as Defense Minister. Beyond the pressing engine matter, Thai-German relations are robust, marking 163 years of collaboration. Germany holds its stance as Thailand’s primary EU trading partner while nourishing military ties through joint visitations, discourse, academic support, and purchases. Concluding the dialogues, both ministers celebrated the progression of the Bilateral Annual Cooperation Programme and the 7th Politico-Military Staff Talks. Thailand extended gratitude for Germany’s educational aid, which bolsters Thai military capabilities, and explored further collaboration in cyber and AI technologies. Notably, Thailand invited Germany to partake in the Defense & Security 2025 event in Bangkok, underlining aspirations for shared growth in defense partnerships. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Khaosod 2025-05-14

Rayong Students Left in Tears After Teachers Give Forced Haircuts File photo courtesy of The Nation for reference only. Female students at a school in Rayong have expressed outrage after being subjected to compulsory haircuts by teachers despite a court ruling that abolished stringent hairstyle rules. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360576-rayong-students-left-in-tears-after-teachers-give-forced-haircuts/

File photo courtesy of The Nation for reference only. Female students at a school in Rayong have expressed outrage after being subjected to compulsory haircuts by teachers despite a court ruling that abolished stringent hairstyle rules. The controversial incident occurred on orientation day, when about 15 girls were given unexpected and unwanted haircuts, insisting their hairstyles contradicted outdated regulations deemed unconstitutional earlier this year. The Supreme Administrative Court had annulled the Ministry of Education's 1975 hairstyle regulation on March 5, citing constitutional conflicts and societal evolution. Although schools can still establish individual hairstyle rules, such measures must respect students' rights, avoiding punitive actions. This development comes as a disappointment to students who hoped the ruling marked the end of enforced hairstyle conformity in Thai schools. On May 9, during orientation in Klaeng district, Rayong, teachers forced the haircuts, claiming the girls' longer hairstyles violated previous school guidelines. Some boys also faced scrutiny over their hairstyles, being instructed to remedy them independently. The activist group Bad Student shared students' frustration online, highlighting the arbitrary and embarrassing nature of these actions while lamenting censorship of student complaints on the school's Facebook page. There are concerns this incident breaches the Child Protection Act, as the revoked haircut policy remains contentious. The struggle now extends beyond policy to practical enforcement, where conservative school traditions still encroach on students' rights. The controversy has sparked a wave of support from netizens, rallying around the affected students and calling for a cultural shift towards greater educational freedom. Despite the removal of the regulation, the forced haircuts have rekindled debate on individual rights within schools. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-05-14

MRT Music Mayhem: Foreign Influencer Blasted by Fed-Up Commuters screenshot An influencer's antics on Bangkok's MRT have stirred up a storm! A foreign content creator, identified as the Iranian TikToker @shayanparsTV, found himself at the centre of controversy after a video surfaced showing him blasting music on a moving MRT train. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360575-mrt-music-mayhem-foreign-influencer-blasted-by-fed-up-commuters/

screenshot An influencer's antics on Bangkok's MRT have stirred up a storm! A foreign content creator, identified as the Iranian TikToker @shayanparsTV, found himself at the centre of controversy after a video surfaced showing him blasting music on a moving MRT train. The incident, which transpired on May 11, drew ire from fellow commuters who did not appreciate the unsolicited soundtrack. As the train approached Klong Toey station, frustration bubbled over when a local passenger could no longer contain his annoyance, shouting “Hey!” at the loud influencer. Undeterred by the confrontation, the influencer uploaded the incident to TikTok, cheekily captioning it: “He screamed at me like I ruined his life.” The clip rocketed into viral status, igniting a fierce debate across Thai social media platforms. While some commentators suggested that the reaction was overly dramatic, a substantial portion condemned the influencer for his lack of respect towards local customs. The issue raises important questions about the boundaries of public behaviour and the responsibilities that come with content creation in shared spaces. Despite criticism, the influencer remains unfazed, having previously orchestrated similar episodes at the Siam BTS station and on other MRT trains. Drawing in 731,000 followers, @shayanparsTV continues to amass views and followers through his disruptive escapades, seemingly making a career out of sharing his beats in public spaces worldwide. This latest stunt underscores ongoing concerns over how influencers can sometimes disregard the peace of everyday commuters in their quest for online fame. The ramifications of this event spotlight the growing tension between content creators and communities expecting mutual respect in shared public environments. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-05-14

Bangkok's Waste Management Overhaul: Non-Compliant Households Face Fee Surge File photo for reference only Starting at the end of 2024, Bangkok households that fail to separate their waste will see their monthly waste collection fee increase from 20 to 60 baht, following a recent Cabinet resolution. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360547-bangkoks-waste-management-overhaul-non-compliant-households-face-fee-surge/

Former PM Thaksin Shinawatra's Hospital Stay Sparks Political Tension in Thailand File photo for reference only Mounting pressure is on the Thai government over the prolonged stay of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra in the Police General Hospital (PGH), with increasing calls for transparency from state officials and political figures. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360537-former-pm-thaksin-shinawatras-hospital-stay-sparks-political-tension-in-thailand/

Koh Phi Phi Tip Theft: Bar Owner Shares CCTV Footage of Foreign Tourists Photo via Facebook/ Big Thanee Suksrimuang In a startling incident on Koh Phi Phi, a bar owner publicly exposed four foreign tourists who attempted to pilfer money from a tip box. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360538-koh-phi-phi-tip-theft-bar-owner-shares-cctv-footage-of-foreign-tourists/