webfact

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/

British Fugitive Arrested in Phuket After Violent Brawl in Bangkok Picture courtesy of Phuket and Andaman News - Facebook A British man, wanted for a violent altercation in Bangkok, has been apprehended in Phuket. The Phuket Immigration Bureau was alerted by Thong Lor police after Mr James, a 26-year-old British national, seriously injured a South Korean man during a brawl. The altercation left the victim requiring intensive care for over a month. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1357554-british-fugitive-arrested-in-phuket-after-violent-brawl-in-bangkok/

Picture courtesy of Phuket and Andaman News - Facebook A British man, wanted for a violent altercation in Bangkok, has been apprehended in Phuket. The Phuket Immigration Bureau was alerted by Thong Lor police after Mr James, a 26-year-old British national, seriously injured a South Korean man during a brawl. The altercation left the victim requiring intensive care for over a month. After the incident, Mr James fled to Phuket, successfully evading capture initially. In response, the Bangkok South Criminal Court issued an arrest warrant on 19th February, charging him with causing grievous bodily harm. The diligent efforts of the Phuket Immigration team, led by Police Colonel Kriengkrai Ariyayong, resulted in the tracking and detention of Mr James. Upon arrest, he confessed to the assault, admitting he had fled to Phuket out of fear of legal repercussions. Authorities in Phuket are keen to reassure the public of their dedication to tackling crimes committed by foreign nationals. They are committed to ensuring the safety and security of both residents and tourists, reinforcing the province’s reputation as a safe and welcoming destination. Picture courtesy of Phuket and Andaman News - Facebook Based on a story by Phuket and Andaman News -- 2025-04-12

Bangkok Prepares for Safe Songkran Celebrations Amid Tightened Security Photo courtesy of BK Magazine Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt has warmly invited the public to partake in Songkran festivities on Silom and Khao San roads from April 12 to 14, promising robust safety measures across the city. The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has prepared comprehensive protocols, including entrance checkpoints and CCTV, to ensure a secure environment for all festival-goers. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1357516-bangkok-prepares-for-safe-songkran-celebrations-amid-tightened-security/

to continue: Thailand Live Saturday 12 April 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1357512-thailand-live-saturday-12-april-2025/

US Expat in Thailand Faces 10 Years for Threatening US Senator Photo courtesy of The Hill In a troubling case intertwining political fervour and unlawful threats, Eric Charles Welton, a 53-year-old American living in Thailand, is facing up to 10 years in a US federal prison. This follows his reported admission to making death threats against US Senator Thom Tillis and his staff, spurred by frustrations over repetitive political emails. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1357509-us-expat-in-thailand-faces-10-years-for-threatening-us-senator/

China's Zero-Dollar Trade Sparks Thailand's Economic Woes Picture courtesy of China Briefing Thailand is grappling with an influx of "zero-dollar" investments and exports from China, raising alarms over the potential impact on the nation's economy. Experts are urging the government to take decisive measures to curb these activities, which could otherwise lead to growth that bypasses the Thai populace entirely. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1357479-chinas-zero-dollar-trade-sparks-thailands-economic-woes/

Picture courtesy of China Briefing Thailand is grappling with an influx of "zero-dollar" investments and exports from China, raising alarms over the potential impact on the nation's economy. Experts are urging the government to take decisive measures to curb these activities, which could otherwise lead to growth that bypasses the Thai populace entirely. Amonthep Chawla, chief economist at CIMB Thai Bank, highlighted the global trade shifts driven by US-China tensions, which could turn Southeast Asia, and Thailand in particular, into fertile ground for foreign direct investment (FDI). Despite Thailand's potential as a manufacturing hub, "zero-dollar" investments, particularly from Chinese firms, pose significant threats by offering negligible economic benefits to local industries. These zero-dollar exports involve trade activities that contribute little to local economic growth, employment, or profits, as foreign firms execute operations in Thailand. Despite an impressive year for FDI in 2024, the nation's economic indicators like the Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) and jobs growth showed only modest improvements. Exports rose, but the economic benefits remained lacklustre, Amonthep stated. Amonthep called for a robust government response akin to the clampdown on zero-dollar tour schemes, which previously exploited local resources without fair distribution of profits. Thailand's economic outlook is further clouded by global uncertainties, including trade tariffs under the former US administration. Although some tariffs on Thai goods have been temporarily eased, a 10% levy policy continues to cast a shadow over the economy. In response to the economic challenges, CIMBT has revised Thailand's GDP growth forecast for 2025 down to 1.8% from 2.7%, with exports anticipated to grow by just 1.4%. Amonthep suggests a technical recession is unlikely, pegging its probability at around 20%, though potential slowdowns in upcoming quarters could occur. The Bank of Thailand is expected to mitigate the economic impact by reducing its policy rate further, likely bringing it down from 2% to 1.25% by year-end. Capital outflows and reduced tourism revenue will likely weaken the baht, predicted to dip to 35.20 per dollar by December. With persistent global challenges and problematic investment practices, Thailand's economic trajectory remains uncertain, warranting close attention and strategic intervention. Based on a story by The Thaiger -- 2025-04-11

File photo courtesy: Matichon Starting 1st May, foreign visitors heading to Thailand must fill in an online arrival card before their trip, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) website, created by the Immigration Bureau, is ready to capture essential traveller details. Smart app versions on Android and iOS will soon be available to make the process even smoother. Diplomatic workers, some international organisation members, and foreign officials in Thailand are exempt. This digital shift replaces the TM6 paper card, which was discontinued last year. The streamlined TDAC is mandatory for all foreign visitors, irrespective of whether they enter Thailand by air, sea, or land. Visitors can fill in their TDAC forms three days before they arrive, inputting crucial details like passport numbers, accommodation addresses, and health records. Those arriving from high-risk areas might have to provide additional details. Group submissions are allowed and details can be tweaked before sending off. The Ministry highlights that TDAC doesn't substitute a visa and advises travellers that Thai nationals need not fill this out. Access to the TDAC system for those arriving on May 1 opens on April 28. The aim is to enhance visitor support and ensure a smoother arrival experience in Thailand. Based on a story by Bangkok Post -- 2025-04-11

File photo courtesy of AP In a bold move to raise awareness and reduce road accidents during the Songkran festival, Thailand's Department of Probation under the Ministry of Justice has launched the campaign "Drink and Drive, Visit the Morgue, Be Responsible to Society." On 10th April, Pol. Lt. Col. Suriya Singhakamol, Director General of the Department of Probation, appointed Nopadol Nomraks, an Inspector with the department, to inaugurate the campaign at Siriraj Hospital in Bangkok. This initiative, spearheaded by the Bangkok Probation Office 1 and its Director, Nontachit Netpukkan, aims to instil a sense of responsibility and raise awareness about the consequences of drunk driving—a significant cause of road accidents during the festive period. Over 100 participants, including probation officials, partner representatives, volunteers, and individuals currently under probation, attended the campaign's launch. The initiative is part of a broader road safety effort themed "Safe Driving, Accident-Free Thailand," working towards sustainable accident prevention and reduction. The Department of Probation is committed to advancing preventive justice and promoting social responsibility. This campaign is a part of the Ministry of Justice's road safety policy, designed to minimise loss of life and property among the public in the long term. Picture courtesy of Daily News Based on a story by Daily News -- 2025-04-11