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File photo Soi Cowboy. Courtesy of Wikipedia Nestled between Sukhumvit Soi 21 and 23, Soi Cowboy stands as a glowing beacon of Bangkok’s nightlife allure. This iconic strip is easily accessible, just a stroll away from Asok BTS and Sukhumvit MRT stations. Its 40-plus bars offer a pulsating blend of neon lights and lively atmosphere, serving as a key stop for adventurous travellers and nocturnal explorers. The name “Soi Cowboy” traces its roots back to 1977, when T.G. “Cowboy” Edwards, a former U.S. Air Force officer known for his omnipresent cowboy hat, opened a bar here. This marked the beginning of Soi Cowboy’s transformation into a nightlife hub. Edwards' Western-style venue stood out amid a bustling Bangkok nightlife scene, offering a unique fusion of global entertainment and local charm. Soon, expats and locals were mingling on the street that proudly bore Edwards' nickname. T.G. “Cowboy” Edwards. Picture courtesy of Facebook By the 1990s, Soi Cowboy took its place alongside Patpong and Nana Plaza as a cornerstone of Bangkok’s nightlife scene. Over the years, it has become home to a colourful variety of bars, ranging from go-go bars to themed venues and expat hangouts. Each new addition contributes to the street's unique and evolving character. Today, this vivid strip represents more than just nightlife; it’s a piece of cultural history. Amid debates over its risque image, Soi Cowboy continues to entice visitors from around the globe, contributing significantly to Bangkok’s status as a nightlife capital. Its continuous buzz of music and movement keeps alive a slice of Bangkok that is as compelling as it is controversial. Easily navigable and secure, Soi Cowboy remains a top draw for tourists due to its central location and improved amenities. Recent enhancements in lighting and signage have made the area more inviting, adding to its charm. While bars dominate the scene, the street is also a haven for diverse street food, late-night tales, and unfolding adventures. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Nation 2025-05-03

Health or Privilege? Court Probes Thaksin’s Extended Hospitalization File photo Ex-PM Thaksin Shinawatra opts for a written statement, steering clear of a June 13 court hearing aimed at probing the enforcement of his prison sentence. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359590-health-or-privilege-court-probes-thaksin’s-extended-hospitalization/

File photo Ex-PM Thaksin Shinawatra opts for a written statement, steering clear of a June 13 court hearing aimed at probing the enforcement of his prison sentence. His legal representative, Winyat Chartmontri, has confirmed Thaksin will not show up at the Supreme Court's Criminal Division for Holders of Political Positions in person. The former prime minister plans to provide medical proof of illness alongside evidence and documents scrutinising his imprisonment process, including the hotly debated transfer from Bangkok Remand Prison to Police General Hospital. Winyat maintained that Thaksin's transfer adhered to Department of Corrections' norms, reassuring there's no reason for concern since all procedures were properly followed. Thaksin's jail stint has been overshadowed by his long-standing health issues. "Thaksin experienced difficult conditions [in jail] prompting doctors at the Department of Corrections Hospital to recommend his transfer. Complications then arose. He has a past with lung disease and high blood pressure," Winyat remarked. The court inquiry, sparked by former Democrat MP Charnchai Issarasenarak, seeks clarity on Thaksin's treatment privileges at the police hospital from his first custody night. Even after Charnchai's petition was denied due to his lack of direct involvement, the court decided to independently probe the department’s choices, requiring explanations from the concerned parties, including Thaksin himself. Thaksin, now 75, initially sentenced to eight years, later reduced to a mere year by a royal pardon, has yet to endure a single jail night. After six months, he qualified for parole. Under legal provisions, prisoners can seek treatment outside for 120 days, yet the Department of Corrections sanctioned his hospital stay for over 180 days, citing prison conditions as life-threatening. All costs, including an 8,500-baht-per-night VIP hospital room, were borne by Thaksin for his six-month hospital sojourn, as a parliamentary committee was informed last November. This unfolding saga continues as the court grapples with understanding whether regulations were side-stepped in Thaksin's favour. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-05-03

Experts Urge Thailand to Scrap Tiered Cigarette Tax File photo for reference only A storm is brewing over Thailand's tiered tax system on cigarettes, with sharp criticism from influential academics who want a shift to a single tax rate. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359617-experts-urge-thailand-to-scrap-tiered-cigarette-tax/

File photo for reference only A storm is brewing over Thailand's tiered tax system on cigarettes, with sharp criticism from influential academics who want a shift to a single tax rate. The current system, they argue, hasn't stopped illegal cigarette trade, boosted government income, or curbed smoking rates. The World Health Organization (WHO) has already recommended moving to a uniform tax structure, but the government has been slow to act. The present system applies a two-tier approach to taxation: a 25% tax for cigarette packs costing up to 72 baht and 42% for those priced above. All packs are also subjected to a further charge of 1.25 baht per cigarette, slapping an extra 25 baht tax on each pack of 20. Yet, Dr Roengrudee Patanavanich from Mahidol University's Faculty of Medicine highlights a worrying trend. Revenue from cigarette taxes dropped from 64.2 billion baht in 2021 to just 51.24 billion baht last year, hitting a 15-year low. Before the tiered system was enacted in 2017, a single tax rate saw revenue climbing significantly from 13.6 billion baht in 1990 to a remarkable 68.6 billion in 2017. During this period, smoking rates in the country plunged from 31% to 19.1%. With the introduction of the two-tiered system, not only have smoking rates barely budged, but the Finance Ministry's target of collecting 60 billion baht annually from cigarette taxes has remained out of reach. Backing the shift to a single tax rate, the WHO has presented evidence suggesting a uniform 40% tax rate and a 1.25 baht levy per cigarette. This advice aims to sidestep the tiered rates' perceived failings, which some believe inadvertently favour foreign tobacco giants over local players. Dr Roengrudee concurs, stating that lower prices from tiered taxes merely tempt consumers towards cheaper options. Dr Prakit Vathesatogkit, leader of the Action on Smoking and Health Foundation, strongly opposes the Tobacco Authority of Thailand’s (TAOT) proposal to introduce a three-tiered tax system. Calling it a backward move, Dr Prakit argues it could mirror prices of untaxed, illicit products, inviting cheaper imports that compete directly with domestic brands. He stresses that to tackle tax evasion effectively, bolstering control over illegal cigarettes is essential rather than slicing taxes or expanding the tier system. In his view, more affordable cigarettes only serve to incentivise smoking—a consequence neither the government nor the health sector can afford. The debate on cigarette taxes remains a hot potato. As the nation grapples with balancing public health and fiscal gains, the future of Thailand's tax framework hangs in the balance. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-05-03

Bangkok-Butterworth Express Reconnects Thailand and Malaysia File photo by Hzh - Self-photographed, CC BY-SA 4.0 Fasten your seatbelts, commuters! The long-awaited restoration of the express train service between Bangkok and Butterworth is set to resume by July. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359613-bangkok-butterworth-express-reconnects-thailand-and-malaysia/

File photo by Hzh - Self-photographed, CC BY-SA 4.0 Fasten your seatbelts, commuters! The long-awaited restoration of the express train service between Bangkok and Butterworth is set to resume by July. After seven years off the tracks, this vital link is being revived following a pledge by both Thailand and Malaysia to enhance transport connectivity across borders. Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungruangkit announced on Friday that the service would resume within the next three months. He hailed the initiative as a significant milestone in fostering stronger transport ties between the neighboring nations. This comes as a part of a broader agreement made by Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and Malaysia’s Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim to boost cross-border transportation options. Previously terminated in 2016, the service has been sorely missed by travelers who now find their journey cut short at Padang Besar, a shared border station. The State Railway of Thailand (SRT), in cooperation with its Malaysian counterpart Keretapi Tanah Malayu (KTMB), is bringing back the seamless connection, offering passengers a direct trip from the heart of Thailand to the doorstep of Malaysia. Both countries are also exploring additional links, including a new train route from Sungai Kolok station in Thailand's Narathiwat province to Tumpat in Malaysia's Kelantan state. This expansion plan aims to solidify regional integration and bolster economic ties. These developments come at a time of increased collaboration between the two nations, seeking to provide enhanced travel opportunities and economic cooperation. As both governments push forward with this transport network revival, passengers can look forward to a more accessible and streamlined travel experience between Thailand and Malaysia. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-05-03

Dramatic Skid: Air Force C-130 Veers Off Samui Runway Picture courtesy of Daily News A nail-biting incident unfolded at Samui Airport when an Air Force C-130 transport aircraft skidded off the apron due to a brake system mishap. Around 2:30 p.m. on May 2, 62 individuals onboard, comprising eight officers and 54 passengers, fortunately escaped unscathed. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359587-dramatic-skid-air-force-c-130-veers-off-samui-runway/

Picture courtesy of Daily News A nail-biting incident unfolded at Samui Airport when an Air Force C-130 transport aircraft skidded off the apron due to a brake system mishap. Around 2:30 p.m. on May 2, 62 individuals onboard, comprising eight officers and 54 passengers, fortunately escaped unscathed. The chaos ensued as the plane, engaged in a training mission, rolled forward uncontrollably after the pilot detected the malfunction and lurched into an electric pole before halting safely in a nearby field. The C-130, belonging to Squadron 601, Wing 6, was undertaking a routine path from Don Mueang through Trang to Koh Samui. Air Chief Marshal Prapas Sonjai, spokesperson for the Air Force, was swift to assure the public of the passengers' safety. The occupants managed a secure evacuation through the rear exit, thanks to the pilot’s quick action. Initial assessments indicated damage primarily to the aircraft's left wing and nose, with the left wing colliding with an electric pole, and the front clipping a parking sign. The Air Force Safety Office will launch an extensive investigation into the braking failure, aiming to unearth causes and forestall such incidents in future operations. Remarkably, the sudden skid did not impact public safety nor compromise the airport's structural integrity. Passengers and crew can breathe a sigh of relief, while the investigation seeks to ensure the skies remain safe for everyone. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai Newsroom 2025-05-03

Pattaya's Long-Delayed 20,000-Seat Stadium Nears Completion Picture courtesy of Daily News Once infamous for stalled progress and setbacks, Pattaya’s Eastern Sports Stadium is now on track to open sooner than anticipated. The long-delayed project has overcome numerous obstacles and is currently about 53% complete, with the timeline running 51 days ahead of schedule. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359550-pattayas-long-delayed-20000-seat-stadium-nears-completion/

Thailand Ranked 7th Happiest Country in New Global Survey Photo by Stefano Cicatiello from Studio SEA via Canva The Thai government has invited the public to celebrate Thailand's ranking as the seventh happiest country globally, according to a recent Ipsos survey. During a press conference on May 1, Anukool Pruksanusak, spokesperson for the Prime Minister’s Office, announced the positive news, highlighting Thailand's placement in the 2025 Global Happiness Index. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359558-thailand-ranked-7th-happiest-country-in-new-global-survey/

French National Arrested in Phuket for Illegal Tour Guide Work Photo: The Phuket Express Phuket authorities arrested a French national named Mr. Gauthier for illegally working as a tour guide, with further investigations now focusing on the involved tour company. The operation took place at Yamu Pier in Pa Khlok, Thalang, following multiple complaints and video evidence. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359540-french-national-arrested-in-phuket-for-illegal-tour-guide-work/

to continue: Thailand Live Saturday 3 May 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1359548-thailand-live-saturday-3-may-2025/

Thailand Acts to Boost International Tourist Safety Amid Decline File photo for reference only In a pivotal meeting on Wednesday, Sorawong chaired discussions aimed at addressing safety concerns affecting international tourists in Thailand. The gathering brought together key players from the private tourism sector, including representatives from ATTA, THA, TCT, and the Airlines Association of Thailand. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359533-thailand-acts-to-boost-international-tourist-safety-amid-decline/

Phuket’s Rare Blood Shortage: Red Cross Seeks URGENT Donors File phoro courtesy of Mahidol University The Phuket Red Cross (PRBC) and Vachira Phuket Hospital's Blood Bank are on an urgent mission this May: they need locals to donate blood, specifically the scarce Rh-negative type. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359504-phuket’s-rare-blood-shortage-red-cross-seeks-urgent-donors/

File phoro courtesy of Mahidol University The Phuket Red Cross (PRBC) and Vachira Phuket Hospital's Blood Bank are on an urgent mission this May: they need locals to donate blood, specifically the scarce Rh-negative type. With a significant rise in tourism across Phuket, there's an increased occurrence of accidents and emergency medical needs, predominantly involving foreign visitors. This demand presents a challenge as Rh-negative blood is uncommon among Thai donors yet more prevalent in expatriates and tourists. "Foreigners are more likely to have Rh-negative blood, so it's crucial for eligible donors to step up," a PRBC spokesperson stated. To address this dire need, the organisation is hosting mobile blood donation clinics throughout May in Phuket, Krabi, and Phang Nga. Major donation sites include Lotus’s Shopping Centres in Thalang and along the bypass road, JW Marriott Phuket, Phuket Airport, and Central Phuket Floresta. Here's a snapshot of key dates for your calendar: May 6: Lotus’s (bypass road) from 12 pm to 6 pm May 7: Phuket Airport office building, 10 am to 4 pm May 14: GO Wholesale (Phuket Town) from 12 pm to 6 pm May 27: Novotel Phuket Vintage Park, Patong, 10 am to 3 pm May 29: Central Phuket Floresta from 12 pm to 6 pm Find the complete schedule via the PRBC's announcements. The Blood Bank at Vachira Hospital also offers its services for walk-in donors at the outpatient building on Yaowarat Road, available daily, according to The Phuket News. If you're considering donating, here’s what you need to remember: First-time donors must be under the age of 60 (up to 70 for regular donors). Ensure you have a restful night's sleep and avoid consuming alcohol within 24 hours of donating. It's also advised to eat a nutritious, low-fat meal at least three hours before giving blood and remember to bring identification. The donation process itself takes less than 7 minutes, though it's essential to hydrate and rest afterward. In summary, the bustling tourist climate in Phuket has led to an urgent requirement for Rh-negative blood donations. The PRBC is diligently organising donation events and welcoming walk-ins to boost their reserves. The community is encouraged to participate, ensuring critical medical needs are met for locals and tourists alike. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-02

Thai Coffee Mogul Prayudh Gets 24-Year Sentence for Land Scandal Picture courtesy of Thai PBS World Thai billionaire Prayudh Mahagitsiri, known as a coffee kingpin, will serve 24 years in prison after the Criminal Court for Corruption and Misconduct Cases found him guilty of involvement in illegal land deed issuance in Nakhon Ratchasima's Sikhio district. The scandal centres around the manipulation of land rights in reserved forest areas. His daughter, Usana, will serve 12 years for the same crime. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359478-thai-coffee-mogul-prayudh-gets-24-year-sentence-for-land-scandal/

Picture courtesy of Thai PBS World Thai billionaire Prayudh Mahagitsiri, known as a coffee kingpin, will serve 24 years in prison after the Criminal Court for Corruption and Misconduct Cases found him guilty of involvement in illegal land deed issuance in Nakhon Ratchasima's Sikhio district. The scandal centres around the manipulation of land rights in reserved forest areas. His daughter, Usana, will serve 12 years for the same crime. At the heart of the case is the illegal acquisition of land for his Mountain Creek golf course – a business owned by his company, Thainox Stainless Co., Ltd. The Court's findings suggest a collaboration with Land Department officials, enabling Prayudh to obtain title deeds for more than 30 hectares of protected land. These were integrated into his resort's existing 369 hectares, significantly expanding his business. Prayudh's fortune came from a wide spectrum of ventures, including his prominent status in the Thai coffee industry. With a net worth pegged at $2.6 billion as of 2025, equivalent to nearly THB 95 billion, he ranks tenth among Thailand's wealthiest individuals and holds the 1,462nd spot on Forbes' global billionaires list. The court's decision marks a significant development in curbing corporate malpractice linked to influential business figures in Thailand. The ruling reflects ongoing efforts by Thai authorities to address corruption, particularly in land-related frauds. Despite the substantial sentence, it is yet to be seen how these convictions will impact Prayudh’s broader business empire. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai PBS World 2025-05-02

Woman Rescues Dog Brutally Attacked for Urinating on Car Picture courtesy of Daily News A stray dog named "Giant" was left in a severe condition after being viciously stabbed by a passerby angered by the dog urinating on his car's wheel. The cost of surgery and medical care totals hundreds of thousands of baht, but an altruistic woman has stepped in to cover all expenses, asserting that every life holds value. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359470-woman-rescues-dog-brutally-attacked-for-urinating-on-car/

Picture courtesy of Daily News A stray dog named "Giant" was left in a severe condition after being viciously stabbed by a passerby angered by the dog urinating on his car's wheel. The cost of surgery and medical care totals hundreds of thousands of baht, but an altruistic woman has stepped in to cover all expenses, asserting that every life holds value. On 1st May, Bangkok residents and motorcycle taxi drivers from Krungthep-Nonthaburi 12 Alley sought assistance for Giant, a 5-year-old stray dog. The poor dog had been stabbed six times with a knife near his rear, leaving him unable to urinate naturally and forcing him to relieve himself through open wounds. The terrified animal was found cowering in a dilapidated sofa near the taxi stand. Ms Sarintip (known locally as Ms Gai), who regularly feeds and cares for Giant, along with volunteer Mr Ju, took the severely injured dog for emergency treatment at a local veterinary clinic. Medical expenses amounted to 4,889 baht. Ms Pornthipa Supattnukul, or Director Fa, the philanthropist owner of Fah Cable TV who learned of the incident, generously covered these costs. Additionally, Director Fa arranged for Giant’s transfer to a larger veterinary hospital in Lam Luk Ka, Pathum Thani, equipped with modern facilities for further treatment. Director Fa, known for sheltering hundreds of injured or abandoned stray dogs and cats at her home, expressed her dismay: "I found it heart-wrenching to see Giant harmed so brutally. Each life is worthy, and I believe in creating merit by rescuing these animals. I intend to help Giant recover fully." The veterinary team conducted x-rays and blood tests on Giant, revealing critically low platelet levels. Blood was sourced from a canine blood bank, and Giant faces a two-week recovery period before any surgery. The anticipated cost of his comprehensive treatment, including surgery and blood procurement, might reach into the hundreds of thousands of baht, all of which Director Fa has committed to covering. Ms Sarintip, deeply moved by Director Fa's generosity, expressed her gratitude and vowed to pursue legal action against the offender. She intends to file a police report against the individual responsible for this brutal attack over the trivial matter of a dog urinating on a car tyre and cited a previous incident where the same person allegedly beat a cat to death. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Daily News 2025-05-02

AI Police Robot Helps Catch 14 Criminals in Thailand Picture courtesy of Daily News A cutting-edge police robot has made its mark by assisting in the capture of 14 suspects at various events in Thailand. The AI-powered Police Cyborg 1.0, equipped with advanced facial recognition technology, was lauded by the National Police Chief for its role in enhancing public safety. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359467-ai-police-robot-helps-catch-14-criminals-in-thailand/

Picture courtesy of Daily News A cutting-edge police robot has made its mark by assisting in the capture of 14 suspects at various events in Thailand. The AI-powered Police Cyborg 1.0, equipped with advanced facial recognition technology, was lauded by the National Police Chief for its role in enhancing public safety. Unveiled at the Songkran Festival in Nakhon Pathom, the robot demonstrated its ability to identify attendees with outstanding arrest warrants. It successfully led to the apprehension of 14 individuals during its deployment. The Police Cyborg 1.0 works by integrating existing CCTV and drone footage to offer a comprehensive surveillance solution. The robot's AI capabilities include recognising faces on a blacklist, tracking suspicious individuals, and identifying weapons and potential violent behaviour. Notably, it has proven effective at events like cockfighting derbies and local markets, leading to several arrests in connection with drug offences, theft, and other criminal activities. Picture courtesy of Daily News Police Chief Pol. Gen. Kittirat Phanphet expressed his delight at the innovation, noting its potential to reduce crime and threat levels significantly. The robot serves as a valuable tool by maintaining public safety without the need for extensive officer deployment. He further emphasised that the success of this AI innovation paves the way for broader implementation, with the potential to serve as a model for other regions. As the technology continues to evolve, it promises to offer substantial support in crime prevention and community policing. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Daily News 2025-05-02

Filipino Man Arrested for Skipping Luxury Hotel Bills Picture courtesy of Siam Rath A Filipino man has been arrested in Bangkok following a series of deceptive stays at luxury hotels, where he incurred damages amounting to hundreds of thousands of baht by skipping out on his bills. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359463-filipino-man-arrested-for-skipping-luxury-hotel-bills/

Picture courtesy of Siam Rath A Filipino man has been arrested in Bangkok following a series of deceptive stays at luxury hotels, where he incurred damages amounting to hundreds of thousands of baht by skipping out on his bills. Major General Prasart Khemmaprasit of the Immigration Division 1, along with senior immigration officers, responded to complaints from several five-star hotels in Bangkok about a Filipino man's fraudulent activities. The man, known for his cunning ploys, repeatedly managed to stay without paying for accommodation or meals by tricking hotel staff. The incidents date back to December 2024, when a manager of a renowned five-star hotel by the Chao Phraya River filed a complaint about the man, who booked hotel rooms via a popular online platform. He would provide credit card details, which were only charged upon physical card presentation at the hotel. Claiming that his father, who was arriving later, would settle the bill, he manipulated the hotel's service standards to gain free accommodation. His scheme involved reserving luxurious stays and limo services from the airport, stating he was travelling with his father. However, the investigation revealed he was not entering Thailand from abroad but was instead residing locally. He would feign arrival via public transport to collect the limousine, effectively deceiving hotel staff. While staying, he'd indulge heavily in room service, even inviting friends for gatherings, accumulating significant costs on the hotel's account. On the supposed day of his father's arrival, neither the father nor the man was found, leading hotels to file police reports. Following reports of similar incidents at other hotels, officers identified the suspect as not a tourist but a university student in Rangsit. Using this information, police obtained a warrant for his arrest. The Immigration Division arrested 26-year-old "Leonardo Hernandez" (a pseudonym), based on witness accounts and surveillance, as he returned to his residence near the university. Convicted of fraud, he now faces legal proceedings for deceitfully obtaining stays and services under false pretenses. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Siam Rath 2025-05-02

UPDATE: Royal insult charges against American dropped Pictures courtesy of Matichon Thailand’s state prosecutor has decided not to prosecute American academic Paul Chambers, who faced charges last month for insulting the royal family and violating the computer crimes act. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359449-oag-spokesperson-says-region-6-prosecutors-drop-charges-against-paul-chambers-over-lese-maje/#findComment-19773676