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Alleged Assault on 12-Year-Old Stirs Rayong Community Picture via Channel 7 In the quiet province of Rayong, Thailand, a troubling event unfolded as a 39-year-old woman allegedly assaulted a friend's 12-year-old daughter. The harrowing incident occurred in Pluak Daeng district, drawing significant public attention and outrage following its circulation across Thai media platforms. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355359-alleged-assault-on-12-year-old-stirs-rayong-community/

Picture via Channel 7 In the quiet province of Rayong, Thailand, a troubling event unfolded as a 39-year-old woman allegedly assaulted a friend's 12-year-old daughter. The harrowing incident occurred in Pluak Daeng district, drawing significant public attention and outrage following its circulation across Thai media platforms. According to reports, the attacker, motivated by anger, confronted the young girl outside her friend’s home. The woman believed the victim was a negative influence on her own daughter, accusing her of encouraging unsupervised outings. Video footage relentlessly captured the scene, showing the woman berating the girl and physically attacking her, leaving bruises and wounds on her body. Witnesses recounted the dramatic escalation, with a man in a dark blue T-shirt, identified as a friend of the aggressor, further chastising the attacker’s daughter instead of defusing the situation. The episode climaxed when the woman attempted to lash out at another boy present but refrained last minute before turning her frustration towards her daughter. In a deeply emotional response, the victim’s mother spoke with various news outlets, voicing her disbelief and anger. "Would she accept such treatment if it were her daughter?" the distraught mother posed, expressing her determination to hold the attacker accountable. Despite an apology call from the aggressor, claiming loss of control due to anger, the mother is unequivocal in her stance against any settlement or compromise. The victim herself recounted the unsettling encounter. She clarified that her presence at the gathering was innocent and that she neither initiated nor encouraged the attacker’s daughter to join. Her efforts to explain during the ordeal were tragically ignored. As the story develops, the assailant has publicly expressed remorse through the media outlet Naewna, stating intentions to apologise formally to the victim’s family. Meanwhile, the community awaits further legal action and resolution, with the case underscoring the complexities and deep emotions surrounding such volatile incidents. In a region where community ties run deep, this incident not only stirs emotional discourse but also highlights broader social issues concerning parental concerns and societal expectations. While an apology has been extended, observers note the need for justice and healing as paramount, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-21

Freak Accident: Lithuanian Tourist Killed by Falling Tree in Phuket Picture of the accident scene courtesy of Phuket News A Lithuanian man's idyllic holiday turned tragic on Phuket's scenic Nai Thon Beach Road when he was struck and killed by a falling tree while riding his motorbike on March 20th. The victim, Arijus Norkus, a 42-year-old, was travelling along the road when a large pine branch suddenly descended, resulting in his instantaneous death. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355317-freak-accident-lithuanian-tourist-killed-by-falling-tree-in-phuket/

Chiang Rai Monk Faces Scrutiny After Hugging Foreign Woman Photo via TikTok/ @gina.warinthorn CHIANG RAI, THAILAND – Police in Chiang Rai are actively searching for a Buddhist monk who was seen embracing a foreign woman, reportedly from France, at a bus terminal. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355316-chiang-rai-monk-faces-scrutiny-after-hugging-foreign-woman/

Picture of the accident scene courtesy of Phuket News A Lithuanian man's idyllic holiday turned tragic on Phuket's scenic Nai Thon Beach Road when he was struck and killed by a falling tree while riding his motorbike on March 20th. The victim, Arijus Norkus, a 42-year-old, was travelling along the road when a large pine branch suddenly descended, resulting in his instantaneous death. The incident sent shockwaves through the usually peaceful area, as described by local village headman, Thanapong Keonun, who alerted emergency services at approximately 11:30 am. Upon arriving quickly at the scene, authorities discovered Norkus near his damaged helmet and ruined motorbike. Another tourist, who happened to be riding a grey Honda ADV motorcycle on the same stretch, had a closer brush with fate; his bike suffered damage, but he remained unharmed. "It could have been anyone," a stunned witness reflected, underscoring the randomness of the tragic event. While forensic teams meticulously documented the accident scene, Norkus's body was transported to Vachira Phuket Hospital for further examinations. Meanwhile, investigations continue into how such a freak accident occurred, according to reports from The Thaiger. This latest tragedy comes on the heels of another heart-wrenching incident involving a British tourist. His much-anticipated holiday in Phuket turned into a nightmare following a serious accident that has left him in a precarious condition in a Thai hospital. The British victim, identified as restauranteur Ricky Eury, was struck by a Russian tourist riding a motorcycle while he was crossing a road on the bustling island. The collision, involving Sergei Medvedev and his wife Svetlana, who were subsequently arrested, inflicted severe injuries on the 39-year-old from Bristol, including multiple skull fractures and brain bleeding. -- 2025-03-21

Bank of Thailand. File photo Faced with a lacklustre economic outlook, the Bank of Thailand is poised to launch an aggressive series of interest rate cuts, potentially the most drastic in Southeast Asia. Analysts suggest that these cuts will be essential to counteract the country's sluggish recovery from the pandemic and increasing global trade tensions. According to Nomura Holdings, the central bank may need to implement up to 100 basis points of rate cuts over the next year, while Bank of America predicts a reduction of 75 basis points by 2026. Such moves would see Thailand leading the region in aggressive monetary easing. Nomura's economist Charnon Boonnuch has highlighted Thailand's vulnerability to increasing global trade protectionism, with a particular focus on the ongoing trade disputes spearheaded by the United States and fading tourism revenues. Historically, the Bank of Thailand (BoT) has resisted such measures, holding interest rates steady despite political pressures. Recent signals, however, suggest a shift towards accommodating economic stimulus through rate cuts. The central bank's hesitance has not gone unnoticed, with baht swaps reflecting an expectation for further easing, alongside a notably dovish tone in their February meeting minutes. Thailand, Southeast Asia's second-largest economy, faces myriad challenges, including an ailing manufacturing sector, elevated household debt, and stagnating consumption. With a GDP growth averaging below 2% over the past decade, the BoT's actions have been under scrutiny. Last year's surprise rate cuts in October and February marked a change in stance, but a full easing cycle is yet to be decisively undertaken. The ongoing trade war exacerbates the situation, particularly with US tariffs possibly dampening Thailand's export sector and increasing competition from Chinese imports. The BoT estimates that these global tensions could slash up to 0.5% from the GDP growth projection, which is slightly above 2.5% for this year. Domestically, the aftermath of the pandemic persists, with households and small businesses grappling with unmanageable debt. Current government measures, including cash handouts, have had limited effectiveness in boosting economic activity. To combat these issues, the Thai government and central bank have introduced measures aimed at bolstering the economy. These include relaxing mortgage regulations and addressing non-performing consumer loans. However, many argue that lowering rates further, ideally to as low as 1%, would provide broader economic relief. Given the government's limited fiscal space—with public debt hovering around 64% of GDP—there is a palpable need for the BoT to engage in substantial rate cuts soon. This move could help alleviate structural constraints that have long hampered Thai economic growth, where previous policies have often emphasised short-term consumption rather than long-term structural reform, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-03-21

Photo via TikTok/ @gina.warinthorn CHIANG RAI, THAILAND – Police in Chiang Rai are actively searching for a Buddhist monk who was seen embracing a foreign woman, reportedly from France, at a bus terminal. A video, originally shared by a Thai TikTok user @gina.warinthorn, shows the monk seated with the woman on a bench, where they were reportedly hugging, stirring debate over propriety and cultural norms. The incident took place at Mae Kha Jarn Bus Terminal, where passengers, including the TikToker, were taking a break en route from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai. The video sparked a flurry of comments from the Thai online community. The user noted in her post that the day was particularly cold, and the monk allegedly offered his robe to the woman. Despite the weather, the act crossed a line, breaching the monastic code that prohibits physical contact with women. Eyewitness accounts describe an awkward exchange: the foreign woman attempted to return the monk’s robe, but he insisted she retain it. Further complicating the matter, the monk tried to take back a long-sleeved shirt from her—a gesture met with an awkward smile. While much of the public empathised with the foreign woman, suggesting she likely didn’t understand Buddhist customs, they criticised the monk for his indiscretion. There are allegations that he might have been under the influence of alcohol or possibly an impostor. Following the release of the footage, the abbot of a nearby temple, along with police from Mae Chedi Station, visited the site for further investigation. Witnesses at the bus terminal reported the monk often appeared intoxicated. However, this was the first instance where his actions starkly violated monastic discipline by physically engaging with a woman. Photo via Facebook/ เป็นข่าว The investigation remains open. The monk left his possessions behind on a bench—items including his alms bowl, a pillow, food offerings, a bag, and robes—before departing for Chiang Mai by bus later that day. Witnesses noted he arrived at the terminal via a local's pickup truck. Local vendors and terminal workers recounted seeing the monk leave, adding fuel to speculation regarding his true identity. The abbot voiced concerns about the adverse impact of the monk’s actions, fearing potential damage to the revered image of Thai monastic life and urging for the monk's expulsion from the order. As authorities continue their inquiry, the incident serves as a cautionary note about cultural misunderstandings and the responsibilities of those upholding religious tenets, reported The Thaiger.. -- 2025-03-21

Shift Entertainment Complexes to Reduce Overtourism: THA File photo courtesy of Amarin TV In a move aimed at alleviating overtourism in Thailand's bustling major destinations, Thienprasit Chaiyapatranun, president of the Thai Hotels Association (THA), advocated on Wednesday for the development of entertainment complexes in secondary cities. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355278-shift-entertainment-complexes-to-reduce-overtourism-tha/

Indian Tourist Attacked After Dispute Over Payment Picture courtesy of CH7 news An Indian tourist was attacked after refusing to pay a Thai woman for services, leading to a violent confrontation. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355307-indian-tourist-attacked-after-dispute-over-payment/

Picture courtesy of CH7 news An Indian tourist was attacked after refusing to pay a Thai woman for services, leading to a violent confrontation. In the early hours of 21st March 2025, police in Pattaya responded to an incident involving a foreign tourist assaulted with a beer bottle and robbed of 10,000 baht. The incident occurred at a rented house on Soi Kromtheedin, Bang Lamung District, Chonburi. Upon arrival, authorities found evidence of a struggle, including bloodstains and scattered glass from a beer bottle. The victim, identified as Mr. Neeraj Sarawgi, 40, from India, suffered injuries needing hospital treatment. According to Mr. Sarawgi, he and two friends had rented the house for a four-day vacation in Pattaya. After visiting Walking Street, four Thai women followed them back to their accommodation, demanding 6,000 baht. When Mr. Sarawgi handed over 4,000 baht, dissatisfaction led to the women using a beer bottle to assault him. Fearing for their safety, his friend paid an additional 10,000 baht, after which the women fled. Police have initiated an investigation, reviewing CCTV footage to trace the assailants. However, there are suspicions about the account, as Mr. Sarawgi initially requested only hospital help, suggesting the altercation may have involved a transaction dispute, reported CH7 news. -- 2025-03-21

Bangkok's Walkways Get 1,000km Upgrade for Better Mobility File photo courtesy of Wikipedia Bangkok is in the midst of a major overhaul of its pedestrian pathways, having already renovated an impressive 700 kilometres of walkways, and plans to revamp another 1,000 kilometres by the next year. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355303-bangkoks-walkways-get-1000km-upgrade-for-better-mobility/

File photo courtesy of Wikipedia Bangkok is in the midst of a major overhaul of its pedestrian pathways, having already renovated an impressive 700 kilometres of walkways, and plans to revamp another 1,000 kilometres by the next year. The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA), under the leadership of spokesman Aekvarunyoo Amrapala, is spearheading this significant infrastructural upgrade. A significant footpath initiative between Phran Nok Market in Bangkok Noi district and Itsaraphap MRT Station in Bangkok Yai illustrates the city's ambitious vision. Initiated last June, this 4-kilometre project connects three districts and incorporates Universal Design principles to ensure improved accessibility for everyone. This approach not only strengthens and enhances the walkways' safety with non-slip surfaces but also integrates cultural elements of the neighbourhood into the design. Notably, around 180 street food stalls have been relocated to optimise space and accessibility, as mentioned by Mr Aekvarunyoo. This effort is part of the BMA's broader four-year plan, targeting a total of 1,000 kilometres of footpaths renewed by 2026. With 70% already achieved, the city is on track, and by next month, 87 pavements, covering a cumulative distance of 774 kilometres, will meet the upgraded standards. Walking plays a critical role in Bangkok's transportation network, with 60% of its residents relying on footpaths to connect with public transport. Mr Aekvarunyoo highlighted improvements in high-traffic areas such as Phloenchit, Silom, Lang Suan, and Yaowarat, where the footpaths have been reinforced with 10-centimetre-thick concrete for durability. Additionally, Bangkok's comprehensive improvements include eliminating cluttered street furniture, installing efficient water drainage systems, and aligning shop and outlet entrances with the footpaths for enhanced safety. Attention also turns to the bustling Klong Toey Market on Rama IV Road, where pedestrian pathway improvements are underway following the relocation of street food vendors. A deadline of 16th March saw vendors moving to designated trading areas, allowing for walkway cleaning and preparation for repairs, set to commence in June and expected to last 120 days. BMA's initiative asks vendors to refrain from extending their stalls onto walkways to maintain free pedestrian flow. This wave of urban renewal, at a cost estimated in millions of Thai Baht, is set to reshape Bangkok's walkways, fostering a more accessible, safer, and culturally resonant environment for the city's bustling populace, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-03-21

File photo courtesy of Amarin TV In a move aimed at alleviating overtourism in Thailand's bustling major destinations, Thienprasit Chaiyapatranun, president of the Thai Hotels Association (THA), advocated on Wednesday for the development of entertainment complexes in secondary cities. Speaking at a roundtable organised by Krungthep Turakij, Thienprasit underscored the necessity of securing local consensus via referendums before such projects can proceed, highlighting potential sites like Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai, and Pattaya in Chonburi. However, Thienprasit pointed out that there is notable resistance to such developments, particularly from Phuket's locals. They worry about issues such as increased tourists, traffic congestion, and the challenge of finding room for expansion within the island's confines. Drawing parallels to international models, Thienprasit remarked, "Tourist attractions like Universal Studios theme parks are located outside major cities, and there are no casinos there." He champions the idea of placing entertainment complexes in less-visited cities, presenting them as viable alternatives needing both investments and tourist interest. Citing resource constraints, Thienprasit highlighted how Phuket and Pattaya already grapple with challenges like water scarcity, exacerbated during peak tourist seasons. By directing tourists towards secondary cities, these areas might not only sidestep exacerbating local resource issues but also enjoy much-needed economic stimulation. On the matter of regulation and oversight, Thienprasit expressed alarm over potential negative implications such as illegal hotels, money laundering, and unregulated casino operations. He called for strict, transparent regulations to ensure these risks are minimised and public trust maintained. Part of his proposal includes casino users agreeing to disclose their information, a move meant to ensure accountability and transparency. He further cautioned influential figures, such as politicians and business owners, to weigh the repercussions of utilising casino facilities on their public image. Younger generations, too, should deliberate on the societal implications of such patronage, he advised. In conclusion, Thienprasit posited that establishing entertainment complexes in lesser-known cities could positively impact both Thailand's tourism and economy. Such a shift could entice visitors to explore beyond the well-trodden tourist hotspots, thereby boosting tourism revenue and distributing the economic benefits more evenly across the country, reported The Nation. -- 2025-03-21

PM Paetongtarn Angrily Denies Alleged Family "Country Deal" Picture courtesy of Amarin TV Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra faced a grilling from reporters today over an impending no-confidence debate, with speculation rife about a supposed "country deal" favouring her family. The debate, anticipated to take centre stage from Monday to Tuesday, looms over the 24-25 March session with opposition leaders keen on unearthing any potential malfeasance linked to the influential Shinawatra clan. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355277-pm-paetongtarn-angrily-denies-alleged-family-country-deal/

Picture courtesy of Amarin TV Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra faced a grilling from reporters today over an impending no-confidence debate, with speculation rife about a supposed "country deal" favouring her family. The debate, anticipated to take centre stage from Monday to Tuesday, looms over the 24-25 March session with opposition leaders keen on unearthing any potential malfeasance linked to the influential Shinawatra clan. Under immense scrutiny, Paetongtarn bristled at the accusations, emphatically denying the existence of any such agreement. These claims, she suggested, were speculative, lacking in any concrete foundation. "If you ask whether it’s true or not, there is none of this; who could go exchange the country," she retorted when probed about the supposed family bargain. The political tempest dwells on the premise that Paetongtarn might be little more than a figurehead, manipulated by her father, the erstwhile leader of Pheu Thai, Thaksin Shinawatra. Fuel was added to the fire with conjectures about this deal potentially enabling Yingluck Shinawatra, the former Prime Minister, to make a return to Thailand without fear of legal repercussions. Inquiry by journalists drew further defiance from Paetongtarn. She dismissed insinuations of clandestine exchanges benefiting the Shinawatra family, questioning what her family could gain from such machinations. Her father’s recent return to Thailand has, by default, shifted the spotlight back to the family, reinvigorating a partisan narrative she finds wearyingly predictable. As the verbal jousting intensifies, the actual no-confidence debate allotments delineate a prolonged showdown. The opposition holds 28 hours to argue their stance; meanwhile, the cabinet and coalition parties collectively weigh in for seven hours, while the meeting chairman presides over a two-hour cap. Proceedings kick off bright and early, with the potential to stretch into the late-night hours of Tuesday, leading into a decisive vote on Wednesday. When quizzed over her stamina to endure the lengthy session, Paetongtarn maintained an upbeat demeanour, laughing off the likelihood of the debate dragging on indefinitely. With other ministers sharing the burden of parliamentary duelling, she reassured that sleep and preparation for subsequent discussions would not be compromised. Beneath the political theatre, however, the stakes remain high. While Paetongtarn seeks to affirm her governance unaffiliated by her family legacy, opposition forces remain poised to aggressively challenge any perceived improprieties, ensuring audiences across Thailand and beyond remain keenly attuned to the outcome, reported Tha Newsroom. -- 2025-03-21

Former PM Thaksin Shinawatra Reconnects with Bangkok's Chinatown Picture courtesy of Naewna Bangkok, Thailand – In an unexpected yet nostalgic walk down memory lane, former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra made his first visit to Yaowarat Road, known as Bangkok’s Chinatown, after a lengthy absence of 19 years. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355276-former-pm-thaksin-shinawatra-reconnects-with-bangkoks-chinatown/

Ministers Deny Ties to Missing 26 Million Baht Necklace Picture courtesy of Naewna In a swirl of allegations involving an extravagant emerald and diamond necklace worth 26.4 million baht, two Thai ministers have emphatically denied possession following claims that the prized piece is in the hands of a government official. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355274-ministers-deny-ties-to-missing-26-million-baht-necklace/

Picture courtesy of Naewna In a swirl of allegations involving an extravagant emerald and diamond necklace worth 26.4 million baht, two Thai ministers have emphatically denied possession following claims that the prized piece is in the hands of a government official. The saga unfolded when renown businesswoman Wasana “May” Inthasang publicly aired her grievances over assets worth 62 million baht lent to actress Ms Arisara Thongborisut, commonly known as Due Arisara. Wasana claims that despite numerous attempts to retrieve these luxury items, including the elusive necklace, her efforts have hit a wall. The spotlight turned on ministers after Arisara suggested the necklace, part of the opulent cache, was with a minister whose first name begins with "P". However, both Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan and Labour Minister Pipat Ratchakitprakarn quickly distanced themselves from the affair, firmly stating the jewellery was nowhere in their possession. Intrigue deepened with other ministers in the cabinet of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra under scrutiny. The list includes Deputy Prime Minister/Energy Minister Pirapan Salirathavibhaga, Deputy Prime Minister/Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira, and Education Minister Permpoon Chidchob. Revelations from Wasana on the televised programme "Hone Krasea" brought the situation to light. She claimed she had entrusted Arisara with several high-value items during a period of need. Among these treasures are a Richard Mille watch valued at 13.8 million baht, a BVLGARI necklace costing 15.27 million baht, and an array of luxurious bags from the Kelly collection, priced between 2.8 million and 3.7 million baht. In a dramatic twist, Arisara tuned into the programme, acknowledging her financial woes, citing overspending and business failures. She confirmed the existence of the borrowed assets but admitted the Lotus Arts de Vivre necklace had exchanged hands and moved up to “a senior person” before reaching a minister. However, she assured viewers of her efforts to reclaim the necklace. Despite being currently in Taiwan, Arisara expressed her intention to address the matter upon her return to Thailand, vowing to report to the Crime Suppression Division. As the quest to unravel the whereabouts of the lavish necklace continues, authorities and the public remain captivated by the saga enveloping high society’s glittering assets and the corridors of power. Whether the case resolves quietly or manages to entangle yet more figures, only time will tell, reported Thai Newsroom. -- 2025-03-21

Picture courtesy of Naewna Bangkok, Thailand – In an unexpected yet nostalgic walk down memory lane, former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra made his first visit to Yaowarat Road, known as Bangkok’s Chinatown, after a lengthy absence of 19 years. Thaksin’s presence drew a significant crowd of both locals and tourists keen to capture the moment with selfies and photographs as he casually strolled amidst the bustling street markets this Tuesday evening. Accompanying Thaksin were several notable figures including Pheu Thai MP Kokaew Pikulthong and the party’s deputy spokesman, Chirawat Aranyakanon. Also in his entourage were a number of businessmen who had maintained ties with him during his self-imposed exile in Dubai. The former leader, known for his deep connections and legacies in Thai politics, dined at Chinatown Scala Shark Fin, a restaurant he reputedly favoured in past years. As Thaksin made his way through the vibrant area, he was met with enthusiastic supporters, some recalling the days when he founded the Thai Rak Thai Party in 1998. Despite its dissolution in 2007, Thaksin remains a figure of considerable interest and admiration among many Thais. Eager to engage with the community, Thaksin interacted warmly with vendors and purchased various goods, a gesture appreciated by many who remember his political legacy fondly. By evening, as the clock approached 8 p.m., he was still seen enjoying the bustling atmosphere, underscoring his appreciation for the cultural and social richness of Yaowarat. Addressing speculations surrounding the visit, Kokaew Pikulthong clarified that Thaksin’s return to Yaowarat bore no political undertones. The visit was a personal excursion, fulfilling a desire Thaksin had expressed whilst living abroad. During his time in Dubai, he had often shared his intent to revisit this vital artery of Bangkok—both to reconnect with old friends and to indulge in the vibrant local scene he remembers fondly. This visit marks a notable moment in Thaksin's life and in the social milieu of Bangkok’s Chinatown, offering a glance at a past era while engaging with the present. The event also underscores the former leader’s enduring connection with the people of Thailand, transcending time and political shifts. As he sauntered through the streets of Yaowarat, with the vibrant neon lights flickering above and the aroma of street food in the air, Thaksin’s visit was as much about personal fulfilment as it was a reminder of his unwavering popularity amongst many Thais, reflecting the complex tapestry of Thailand’s political and social narratives, reported Thai Newsroom. -- 2025-03-21

British Tourist Tricked in Pattaya Herbal Remedy Scam Pictures courtesy Facebook เรารักพัทยา A British tourist has fallen victim to a high-priced herbal remedy scam in Pattaya. On 19 March 2025, Mark Campbell, 63, reported the incident to the local police. He recounted how, while walking near a shopping centre towards South Pattaya, he was approached by two unidentified foreign men and a Thai woman at a night bazaar. They engaged him in conversation, claiming he was overweight and recommended a weight-loss remedy. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355299-british-tourist-tricked-in-pattaya-herbal-remedy-scam/

Pictures courtesy Facebook เรารักพัทยา A British tourist has fallen victim to a high-priced herbal remedy scam in Pattaya. On 19 March 2025, Mark Campbell, 63, reported the incident to the local police. He recounted how, while walking near a shopping centre towards South Pattaya, he was approached by two unidentified foreign men and a Thai woman at a night bazaar. They engaged him in conversation, claiming he was overweight and recommended a weight-loss remedy. The group persuaded Mr Campbell to buy two bottles of honey from a convenience store, then guided him to an unknown shop in Soi 13/2. There, they extolled the virtues of a health supplement allegedly containing mysterious herbs purported to aid in weight loss. Trusting their claims, Mr Campbell purchased the product for 20,000 baht and was subsequently led to withdraw cash to complete the transaction. Suspicious, Mr Campbell later contacted his partner and expressed doubts about the purchase. When his partner joined him, they realised the product did not deliver the promised benefits and was unreasonably priced. Convinced they'd been duped, they returned to file a police complaint. Police investigators went with the victim to the scene, finding the shop closed. Upon contacting neighbouring vendors, they managed to reach the shop owner, who arrived with the foreign group. After discussions, the parties reached an agreement, and Mr Campbell was refunded, peacefully resolving the incident, reported We love Pattaya Faccebook. -- 2025-03-21

Tesla Dominates Thai EV Market with Top Satisfaction Scores Pictures courtesy of Tesla & EV cars Thailand Facebook Tesla has firmly entrenched itself as the leader of Thailand's burgeoning electric vehicle (EV) market, according to a recent survey by NielsenIQ Thailand, scoring an impressive 890 in consumer satisfaction. This outcome emerged from the Electric Vehicle Ownership Satisfaction (EVOSS) study, which evaluated satisfaction among owners of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355273-tesla-dominates-thai-ev-market-with-top-satisfaction-scores/

Pictures courtesy of Tesla & EV cars Thailand Facebook Tesla has firmly entrenched itself as the leader of Thailand's burgeoning electric vehicle (EV) market, according to a recent survey by NielsenIQ Thailand, scoring an impressive 890 in consumer satisfaction. This outcome emerged from the Electric Vehicle Ownership Satisfaction (EVOSS) study, which evaluated satisfaction among owners of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs). Manenatta Jirasevijinda, Senior Director of Automotive Industry Insights for NielsenIQ Thailand and Japan, shed light on the study's evaluation process. The EVOSS study takes into account several critical factors affecting customer satisfaction, such as driving experience, ownership costs, convenience of charging, after-sales service, and the efficacy of in-vehicle technology. Utilising a 1,000-point scale, the study offers insight into the levels of satisfaction experienced by EV owners. Across Thailand, the average satisfaction score for EV ownership has been recorded at 880 points—with home charging convenience scoring the highest at 895 points. This indicates substantial satisfaction with charging accessibility and ease of use, with 84% of surveyed owners primarily charging their vehicles at home. Conversely, ownership costs, encompassing electricity expenses, maintenance fees, and vehicle prices, scored the lowest at 863 points. The study further revealed key factors driving EV purchase decisions: design appeal (61%), driving performance (59%), quality and reliability (58%), and driving range (52%). Notably, a majority of Thai EV owners purchase these vehicles as additional rather than replacement cars, reflecting varied usage needs. Tesla notably surpassed its competitors through excellence in several key areas: safety and technology (scoring 905), driving enjoyment (899), quality and reliability (894), and driving range (883). These robust scores contributed to Tesla achieving the highest Net Promoter Score (NPS) of 81, signifying strong brand advocacy and consolidating its leading position in the Thai EV market. The significance of maintaining customer confidence was highlighted by Manenatta, who emphasised the need for automakers to manage dissatisfaction and provide transparent information, particularly concerning driving ranges. These findings, initially reported by The Nation, offer valuable insights for automakers to refine their products, enhance after-sales services, and meet the increasing demand for EVs in Thailand. Between October and November last year, NielsenIQ conducted this study with 1,060 BEV/PHEV owners participating through both online surveys and in-person interviews. These comprehensive findings can guide automakers in tapping into Thailand's growing EV market, with Tesla setting the benchmark for satisfaction levels and market leadership, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-21

Thai Deputy PM Phumtham Reassures Uyghurs in Xinjiang Visit Picture courtesy of Thai Rath In what many view as a poignant gesture, Thailand's Deputy Prime Minister, Phumtham Wechayachai, recently travelled to the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region. His visit was marked by an apology for the prolonged detention of some Uyghur individuals in Thailand, emphasising that the intention was always to reunite these individuals with their families back home. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355243-thai-deputy-pm-phumtham-reassures-uyghurs-in-xinjiang-visit/

Israeli Tourist's Taxi 'Mishap' Resolved with 1,500 Baht in Pattaya Picture courtesy of Amarin TV In a rather unusual incident in Pattaya, Thailand, an Israeli tourist brought about an embarrassing scene after defecating in a taxi, leading to a dispute that required police intervention. Initially, the tourist offered 300 baht (approx. £6.75 or $9) in compensation, but the situation was ultimately resolved with a settlement of 1,500 baht (about £33.75 or $45). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355218-israeli-tourists-taxi-mishap-resolved-with-1500-baht-in-pattaya/