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Picture courtesy of Thai Rath A dramatic video has emerged online showing a car with a faulty gearbox veering across a central reservation, narrowly avoiding collisions in the Tha Maka area. Fortunately, no injuries were reported. The footage, which quickly gained attention on social media, was posted by a Facebook user who captured the heart-stopping moment a grey vehicle lost control, careening across the central divider towards oncoming traffic. Thanks to the quick reactions of another driver who managed to brake in time, a serious accident was avoided. The incident, caught on film at 11:00 AM on 16th April 2025, has sparked widespread discussion. According to local police at Tha Maka station, the mishap occurred just as the vehicle was leaving a parking spot. The driver engaged drive mode, but a gearbox malfunction caused the car to lurch uncontrollably, crossing the pavement and clipping two to three other vehicles in transit before coming to a halt on the central reservation. Initial reports indicate only property damage, with no one injured. Based on a story by Thai Rath -- 2025-04-17

PM Paetongtarn Named Young Global Leader 2025 by World Economic Forum Picture via Paetongtarn Shinawatra/Facebook Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has been honoured as a 2025 Young Global Leader (YGL) by the World Economic Forum. The 38-year-old leader has been recognised among the top 114 global figures under 40, confirming her influential role as a changemaker. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1357941-pm-paetongtarn-named-young-global-leader-2025-by-world-economic-forum/

Picture via Paetongtarn Shinawatra/Facebook Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has been honoured as a 2025 Young Global Leader (YGL) by the World Economic Forum. The 38-year-old leader has been recognised among the top 114 global figures under 40, confirming her influential role as a changemaker. The prestigious platform celebrates emerging leaders with an impressive record of fostering positive change across the globe. Confirmed by government advisor Jirayu Huangsap on April 16, this accolade highlights PM Paetongtarn’s enduring global and national influence. Just recently, she featured in TIME magazine’s 100 Most Influential People list. Despite her relatively brief tenure, her progressive policies and dynamic leadership have been widely acknowledged, solidifying her as one of Asia's youngest and most successful female heads of government. Since assuming office, PM Paetongtarn has tackled various critical issues with notable speed and effectiveness. Her administration has tirelessly combated call centre scams, drug-related crime, and worked on bolstering disaster preparedness. Key initiatives such as the 30-Baht Universal Healthcare Anywhere programme and a pioneering digital wallet scheme aim to revitalise Thailand’s economy, with both projects contributing to her recognition on a global level. Beyond her political endeavours, PM Paetongtarn is also celebrated for her contribution to promoting Thai culture worldwide. As chair of the Thai Soft Power Committee, she has been instrumental in showcasing cultural events like the Songkran festival to international audiences. The YGL programme, established by Klaus Schwab, seeks to foster responsible leadership, and with over 1,400 global members, it champions efforts to better the world across various fields. Meanwhile, PM Paetongtarn clarified the objectives behind the Entertainment Complex Bill, dismissing concerns about it turning Thailand into a casino hub. She emphasised its goal to drive economic growth and boost tourism, rather than focusing solely on gambling. Based on a story by The Thaiger -- 2025-04-17

Tattooed Tourist Assaulted in Songkran Soaking Incident Picture courtesy of Pattaya News A Songkran celebration on Pattaya's Soi 6 erupted into violence last night when a foreign tourist, attempting to avoid water due to a fresh tattoo, was assaulted. Police are currently hunting for the assailants responsible for the altercation, which ended with the tourist being hospitalised. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1357902-tattooed-tourist-assaulted-in-songkran-soaking-incident/

Topless Dancing at Songkran Spurs Cultural Image Controversy Picture courtesy of อีซ้อขยี้ข่าว : อีซ้อ Facebook A recent incident in Nakhon Ratchasima has ignited a debate over cultural values during Thailand's Songkran festival. On the festival's final day, April 15th, a video surfaced showing a transgender woman dancing topless at the bustling Tek Ha intersection, sparking widespread online criticism for allegedly damaging the country's cultural image. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1357900-topless-dancing-at-songkran-spurs-cultural-image-controversy/

to continue: Thailand Live Thursday 17 April 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1357904-thailand-live-thursday-17-april-2025/

Thailand Faces High Road Fatalities as Songkran Safety Measures Launch A recent World Health Organisation (WHO) and Statista report has placed Thailand among the top countries for road accident fatalities, recording a staggering death rate of 25.4 per 100,000 people annually. This drastically surpasses the global average and places Thailand alongside nations like Guinea, Libya, and Kenya in terms of road traffic mortality. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1357903-thailand-faces-high-road-fatalities-as-songkran-safety-measures-launch/

Police Award Whistleblower Who Reported Foreign Tourists Over Indecent Photos Picture courtesy of Siam Rath On 15 April 2025, Police Lieutenant General Saksira Phueakam, Commissioner of the Tourist Police Bureau, inspected readiness and operational support for the Wan Lai Songkran festivities in Bang Saen and Pattaya. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1357877-police-award-whistleblower-who-reported-foreign-tourists-over-indecent-photos/

Picture courtesy of Siam Rath On 15 April 2025, Police Lieutenant General Saksira Phueakam, Commissioner of the Tourist Police Bureau, inspected readiness and operational support for the Wan Lai Songkran festivities in Bang Saen and Pattaya. During his visit, he presented a certificate of commendation to a volunteer security guard working under the S.T.C. Project – a Strong Tourism Community initiative. The commendation was awarded in recognition of the guard’s prompt report regarding two foreign tourists who were caught taking obscene photographs. Authorities responded immediately to the tip-off, swiftly locating and detaining the suspects. The individuals were later identified as Mr. Zhihang, aged 67, and Miss Tingting, aged 35, both Chinese nationals. During questioning, both admitted to the offence. Their behaviour was deemed not only a breach of Thai law but also a show of deep disrespect for Thai cultural values, particularly in Pattaya – an internationally renowned tourist destination. The Tourist Police Commissioner also observed a demonstration of drones used for safety monitoring, and promoted public awareness of the Thailand Tourist Police mobile application and the emergency hotline 1155. Lt. Gen. Saksira stated that, in line with directives from the Prime Minister, Minister of Tourism and Sports, and the National Police Commissioner, all police units are to elevate safety measures and enhance support for both citizens and tourists throughout the 2025 Songkran Festival. Picture courtesy of Siam Rath Based on a story by Siam Rath -- 2025-04-16

Swede's Split-Second Distraction Triggers Buriram Accident Picture courtesy of Khaosod A 65-year-old Swedish man miraculously walked away from a dramatic crash in Buriram after reaching for a fallen water bottle while driving. The accident rocked the Lahansai-Ban Kruad road on April 15th, turning a routine drive into a chaotic scene. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1357860-swedes-split-second-distraction-triggers-buriram-accident/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod A 65-year-old Swedish man miraculously walked away from a dramatic crash in Buriram after reaching for a fallen water bottle while driving. The accident rocked the Lahansai-Ban Kruad road on April 15th, turning a routine drive into a chaotic scene. The man, identified as “Mr. Mats,” was behind the wheel of a 2025 Toyota All New Hilux Champ when the vehicle suddenly overturned, slamming into and toppling a streetlight. Remarkably, Mr. Mats sustained only minor injuries—scratches on his arms and legs. Rescue workers arriving at the scene were met with resistance from the visibly shaken driver, who only calmed down once his Thai wife arrived to help translate and ease his nerves. She later explained that Mats, a long-term resident of Ban Sam Khoei in the Tachong sub-district, was simply heading home after dinner when the water bottle dropped near the pedals. Reaching down to grab it led to the vehicle losing control. His wife also noted that Mats may have reacted with distress due to lingering anxiety from a previous surgery, compounding the shock of the crash. Police Lieutenant Colonel Manop Thongphlapphla, the investigating officer, issued an important reminder: drivers should never reach for fallen items while the vehicle is in motion. “If something drops near the pedals, slow down, pull over, and stop the vehicle before retrieving it,” he urged. As for the damaged streetlight, repairs will be addressed in discussions with local authorities. The incident stands as a clear warning—minor distractions behind the wheel can lead to major consequences. Mr. Mats is lucky to have walked away with a story rather than a tragedy. Based on a story by Khaosod -- 2025-04-16

Booze-Fueled Songkran Sparks Backlash from Non-Drinkers A man reacts as water is splashed on him during the Songkran water festival to celebrate the Thai New Year in Prachinburi Province, Sunday, April 13, 2025. (AP Photo/Wason Wanichakorn) The Songkran holidays have been marred by a controversial flouting of booze laws, reports StopDrink Network, an NGO dedicated to monitoring alcohol sales. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1357851-booze-fueled-songkran-sparks-backlash-from-non-drinkers/

A man reacts as water is splashed on him during the Songkran water festival to celebrate the Thai New Year in Prachinburi Province, Sunday, April 13, 2025. (AP Photo/Wason Wanichakorn) The Songkran holidays have been marred by a controversial flouting of booze laws, reports StopDrink Network, an NGO dedicated to monitoring alcohol sales. According to Teera Watcharapranee, director of the organisation, major alcoholic brands in Thailand held promotional events at a staggering 137 locations across Thailand. These events allegedly breached alcohol control and excise tax laws. Teera revealed that 42 of these locations were designated water-fighting zones, 60 were entertainment venues, and the remainder venues such as concert halls and department stores. Despite the legal restrictions, alcohol was freely sold even during prohibited hours of 2-5pm, with some promotions offering four beer cans for just 199 baht. Shockingly, sales were made to anyone, regardless of age or sobriety, raising concerns over law enforcement during these festive times. A notable chain of convenience stores reportedly set up stalls outside their premises in a bid to skirt legal issues, implicating a blatant disregard for the law. The StopDrink Network is readying its evidence to present to government agencies, demanding accountability. Meanwhile, alcohol-free Songkran events in Nakhon Si Thammarat and Nakhon Ratchasima saw enthusiastic crowds, proving that dry celebrations can be equally appealing. Mr Teera urged for stricter government control over how these alcohol brands market themselves, highlighting the importance of social responsibility. This call to action aims to safeguard public welfare, especially among the younger population, as "wan lai" celebrations continue in parts of Thailand. As the festivities go on, the conversation about responsible alcohol consumption becomes even more pertinent. Based on a story by Bangkok Post -- 2025-04-16

Songkran Success: Tourist Surge Boosts Thai Economy People splash water during the Songkran water festival to celebrate the Thai New Year in Prachinburi Province, Thailand, Sunday, April 13, 2025. (AP Photo/Wason Wanichakorn) Thailand is basking in the glow of a tourist boom as the Songkran festival draws an impressive 666,000 international visitors, reports revealed on Tuesday. The nation welcomed roughly 10.7 million tourists in 2025, raking in a whopping 510 billion baht from tourism-related income this year. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1357840-songkran-success-tourist-surge-boosts-thai-economy/

People splash water during the Songkran water festival to celebrate the Thai New Year in Prachinburi Province, Thailand, Sunday, April 13, 2025. (AP Photo/Wason Wanichakorn) Thailand is basking in the glow of a tourist boom as the Songkran festival draws an impressive 666,000 international visitors, reports revealed on Tuesday. The nation welcomed roughly 10.7 million tourists in 2025, raking in a whopping 510 billion baht from tourism-related income this year. The Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2025 has been dubbed a roaring success, according to Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong. Celebrated over three days, Thai New Year festivities splashed across popular spots like Chiang Mai, Khon Kaen and Hat Yai, attracting crowds from across the globe. Bangkok remained the epicentre of the celebrations, with Silom Road and Khao San Road teeming with 651,295 revellers. A significant influx of short-haul tourists, particularly from China and India, led to a 17.61% increase from the previous week's numbers. More long-haul visitors from Europe, taking advantage of spring school holidays, added further to the festival's success. During the Songkran week alone, 666,180 international arrivals were recorded, showing a 10.73% rise with around 95,169 arrivals per day. Topping visitor numbers were Malaysians, Chinese, Indians, Russians, and British nationals. Chinese and Indian numbers soared by 28.20% and 23.56%, respectively, though the Brits seemed less interested, with a slight dip of 8.49%. The Thai government is keen to maintain the touristic momentum post-Songkran, eyeing European travellers during their school spring break. The Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism and Sport Year 2025 campaign has been a hit, with streamlined travel processes and increased flight support. From January 1 to April 13, 10.73 million tourists packed their bags for Thailand, contributing to windfall tourism revenues of 516.58 billion baht. Songkran's three-day bash saw 651,295 revellers flock to hotspot Bangkok, generating 1.7 billion baht at the Sanam Luang site alone. As attention turned to local festivities, the song and dance in Sanam Luang and Ratchadamnoen Avenue captivated 523,456 Thais and 34,559 foreigners. The Tourism Authority of Thailand estimated the Songkran festivities would generate about 26.5 billion baht, an 8% increase compared to last year, with foreign visitor numbers also promising a healthy rise. Based on a story by Bangkok Post -- 2025-04-16

74% of Thais Expect Political Changes After Songkran: Poll File photo courtesy of INN news A recent opinion poll reveals that a whopping 74.2% of Thai citizens anticipate political change following the Songkran Festival. Conducted by Super Poll Research Centre, the survey reflects growing scepticism about the current government's stability. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1357836-74-of-thais-expect-political-changes-after-songkran-poll/

File photo courtesy of INN news A recent opinion poll reveals that a whopping 74.2% of Thai citizens anticipate political change following the Songkran Festival. Conducted by Super Poll Research Centre, the survey reflects growing scepticism about the current government's stability. The renowned celebration may just usher in more than water fights, hinting at potential political upheavals. Assistant Professor Dr. Noppadol Kannika, director of the research centre, underscored Songkran's role in amplifying public engagement with national affairs. During this culturally significant period from April 10-14, the poll tapped into the perspectives of 1,102 respondents spanning diverse professions across Thailand. Among the respondents, concerns about governmental conflict topped the list, as 36.9% indicated internal discord, particularly within coalition parties, as a likely cause for change. Instigations close to leadership stem from 30.6% of those surveyed, while 27.8% believe social media trends push the perception of dissent and unrest. Economic woes and dissatisfaction with government policies were cited by 20.5% and 14.9%, respectively. When drilling into potential political shifts, 38.4% of respondents predict a cabinet reshuffle while 37.6% foresee a schism within the coalition government. Such adjustments signal growing discomfort and intentions to tackle immediate challenges without drastic measures like dissolving parliament. Additionally, 32.1% anticipate political rallies, and 27.5% expect parliamentary dissolution, hinting at possible significant structural transformations should pressures mount beyond governmental control. Just 25.6% of respondents asserted that no changes would occur, illustrating widespread sentiment of political fragility. The findings underscore a palpable air of distrust among the populace, with many anticipating challenges both internally within the government and from external formidable forces. Based on a story by Thai Newsroom -- 2025-04-16

Krabi Dams Stand Strong Amid 3.5 Magnitude Earthquake Test Picture courtesy of News1 A rumble in Krabi shook the ground but left local dams standing firm. Yesterday's 3.5-magnitude earthquake rocked Krabi’s Nuea Khlong district at 2.27 p.m., but thankfully, no damage was reported. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1357833-krabi-dams-stand-strong-amid-35-magnitude-earthquake-test/

Picture courtesy of News1 A rumble in Krabi shook the ground but left local dams standing firm. Yesterday's 3.5-magnitude earthquake rocked Krabi’s Nuea Khlong district at 2.27 p.m., but thankfully, no damage was reported. The quake, originating just 2 km below the surface, briefly prompted concerns, but officials quickly assured that the region's infrastructure is built to withstand much stronger shakes. Agriculture and Cooperatives Minister Narumon Pinyosinwat confidently asserted that the tremor's peak ground acceleration (PGA) of 0.03913 g fell far short of the dams' capacity to handle PGA up to 2 g. Designed with resilience in mind, these five medium-sized dams can withstand quakes reaching 7 to 7.5 on the Richter scale. News of the quake understandably stirred some concerns initially, but reports confirmed that all dams and irrigation structures in Krabi and adjoining areas remain safe and sound. In other seismic news, Kanchanaburi felt a smaller tremor measuring 2.4 in magnitude at 7.52 p.m. The quake's epicentre, located in the Thong Pha Phum district, was 1 km below ground, a minor shake that thankfully left no injuries or damage in its wake. Such seismic activity across Thailand highlights the importance of robust infrastructure to endure nature's unpredictability. As of now, the reassurance from authorities has left Krabi's community breathing a sigh of relief. The steadfast nature of the region's engineering underscores the capability to manage natural disruptions, ensuring safety for all residents. Based on a story by Thai Newsroom -- 2025-04-16

Missing Welshman Found After British Media Reported His Disappearance Picture courtesy of Matichon Krabi – A 26-year-old Welshman, who was recently reported missing on Koh Phi Phi by British media, has been found safe in a hotel in Krabi. Contrary to earlier reports, he never was on Koh Phi Phi. It appears he avoided contact due to personal issues at home. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1357829-missing-welshman-found-after-british-media-reported-his-disappearance/

Picture courtesy of Matichon Krabi – A 26-year-old Welshman, who was recently reported missing on Koh Phi Phi by British media, has been found safe in a hotel in Krabi. Contrary to earlier reports, he never was on Koh Phi Phi. It appears he avoided contact due to personal issues at home. Mr Daniel had been out of touch with his family since mid-March, leading to reports that he might have vanished on Koh Phi Phi, Krabi. Local police and immigration officers launched a search, checking every hotel on the island but found no record of him staying there. However, authorities located him today at 3 p.m. at a hotel on Maharaj Road in Krabi Town. Immigration and tourism officials confirmed Mr Daniel is alive and well, having checked into the hotel alone. Though unharmed, Mr Daniel has been reluctant to speak with officials. Initial inquiries suggest he might have felt upset with his family, telling friends he did not wish to return home. Details of any underlying issues remain unclear. Records show that Daniel arrived in Krabi Province on 22 February 2023 and had been staying in various hotels around Krabi Town, never actually visiting Koh Phi Phi as previously suggested. His most recent hotel check-in was on 22 March. Immigration police have documented the case and plan to inform the embassy, which will update his family. Based on a story by MGR online -- 2025-04-16

Thief Arrested After Snatching Handbag from Australian Tourist in Patong Picture courtesy of Matichon. Police have arrested a 42-year-old Thai man following the snatch theft of a handbag belonging to an Australian female tourist in Patong, Phuket. The suspect was captured after a swift investigation by local police in collaboration with the Tourist Police. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1357804-thief-arrested-after-snatching-handbag-from-australian-tourist-in-patong/

138 Deaths in First Four Days of Songkran’s “Seven Dangerous Days” Pictures courtesy of DDPM. The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) has reported a total of 138 deaths and 1,002 injuries from 1,000 road accidents across Thailand during the first four days (11–14 April) of the Songkran festival’s road safety campaign. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1357797-138-deaths-in-first-four-days-of-songkran’s-“seven-dangerous-days”/

to continue: Thailand Live Wednesday 16 April 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1357789-thailand-live-wednesday-16-april-2025/

Pickup Truck Ploughs Through Songkran Revellers, Injuring Nearly 20, Driver Beaten by Mob Picture courtesy of Facebook Nattaput Yongkul. A shocking incident marred Songkran celebrations in Chachoengsao province on 14 April when a pickup truck driver rammed through a large crowd of water festival revellers, injuring nearly 20 people, six of them seriously. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1357769-pickup-truck-ploughs-through-songkran-revellers-injuring-nearly-20-driver-beaten-by-mob/