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Thai Sang Thai Chaos as 'Cobra MPs' Back PM Paetongtarn Picture courtesy of The Nation In a stunning twist, five MPs from the Thai Sang Thai Party have defied their leader by backing Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. The rogue MPs’ actions have sparked outrage within the party, leaving founder Sudarat Keyuraphan fuming and taking to social media to voice her anger. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355894-thai-sang-thai-chaos-as-cobra-mps-back-pm-paetongtarn/

Thailand Ends Corporal Punishment, Ushers in New Era for Kids Refrence picture courtesy of Freepik Thailand took a historic step by axing all forms of corporal punishment, carving a brighter future for kids across the nation. The monumental change to Section 1567 was published in the Royal Gazette on Monday, March 24, cementing Thailand’s spot as the 68th nation worldwide to make homes, schools, and care centres free from violent discipline. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355893-thailand-ends-corporal-punishment-ushers-in-new-era-for-kids/

Refrence picture courtesy of Freepik Thailand took a historic step by axing all forms of corporal punishment, carving a brighter future for kids across the nation. The monumental change to Section 1567 was published in the Royal Gazette on Monday, March 24, cementing Thailand’s spot as the 68th nation worldwide to make homes, schools, and care centres free from violent discipline. UNICEF Thailand hailed this as a giant leap for children’s rights, aligning perfectly with the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC). This change serves as a sturdy reminder that a child’s wellbeing tops the list in every decision impacting them. It’s a genuine stride towards nurturing positive parenting. Back in 2022, a survey by the National Statistical Office knocked us breathless. It unveiled that 54% of Thai children under 14 had faced the brunt of physical or mental punishment at home. Sure, it’s a dip from 75% in 2015, but UNICEF barely lets us off the hook, stating the ideal is zero violence against kids. UNICEF Thailand expanded on the victory, saying this new law sets a precedent, but underlined the need for the government to back it with initiatives teaching non-violent discipline. Apparently, simply banning corporal punishment falls short without supporting parents with educational resources about alternatives. Collaborative efforts between the government, civil society, and communities, according to UNICEF, are crucial moving forward. The end goal? To obliterate violence against kids and protect their rights robustly, one law, one community initiative at a time. Despite challenges still looming, the passage of this law is a powerful nod to better child protection and brighter prospects for the youth across Thailand. It brings hope of accelerating further advances in the welfare of children nationally. In short, it’s a win worth celebrating. Based on a story by The Thaiger -- 2025-03-27

Thailand Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, third left, reacts after a no-confidence vote against her was defeated in Bangkok, Thailand, Wednesday, March 26, 2025. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra isn't budging on a cabinet reshuffle, following her impressive victory in a no-confidence vote. She cruised through with 319 votes to 162 and only seven abstentions, leaving her position unshaken. With confidence high, she declared no plans for a cabinet shake-up. Questions arose about her father, Thaksin Shinawatra, former PM, influencing any potential changes. Paetongtarn stayed calm, saying she’s open to opinion but has no immediate reshuffle intentions. Thaksin himself had no objections to her decision. Despite the coalition cruising quietly, opposition parties aren't letting it slide. Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut, leading the People’s Party, called for investigations over the information revealed in the heated censure debate. The spotlight is on tax matters, suggesting Thaksin’s family should toe the line. The two-day debate saw fiery accusations. Opposition grilled Paetongtarn on her governance, alleged tax evasion, and hovering influence from her father. High electricity bills and low farm prices were critical issues, alongside her controversial cash handout policies. Concerns were also raised on her economic comments like the benefits of a strong Thai Baht to exports. Paetongtarn faced accusations over potential misdirection surrounding her father's health and influence. Thaksin, reportedly unwell, stayed in a private ward at Police General Hospital, dodging jail time. The family's swanky assets, notably the Alpine Golf Resort and a luxury Khao Yai retreat, are under scrutiny. With politics heating up, will PM Paetongtarn's firm stance hold? Keep eyes peeled for the unfolding saga. Based on a story by Bangkok Post. -- 2025-03-27

Picture courtesy of The Nation In a stunning twist, five MPs from the Thai Sang Thai Party have defied their leader by backing Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. The rogue MPs’ actions have sparked outrage within the party, leaving founder Sudarat Keyuraphan fuming and taking to social media to voice her anger. The uproar erupted when Sudarat revealed on Facebook that five out of six of her MPs turned heel, supporting the young Pheu Thai leader in the crucial no-confidence vote. By labeling them “cobra MPs,” Sudarat drew from a fable about betrayal, gripping the public’s attention with her fiery rebuke. Her post accused the MPs of sidestepping ethics in pursuit of personal gains while disrespecting the very people who had elected them. Sudarat promised repercussions, insisting that their breach of duty calls for justice from both the populace and the courts. The five renegade members toeing the line differed from their party positions and included Thakorn Tanthasit, Rampoon Tantiwanitchayanon, Supaporn Salabsri, Rung Thurapol, and Adisak Kaewmoongkhunsup. According to Sudarat, their actions are a betrayal of trust, yet she fell short of announcing immediate legal steps. This incident is not unprecedented. When Paetongtarn first ascended to power, similar defiance was shown by the entire Thai Sang Thai faction, ending in an unresolved threat of expulsion by Sudarat. The MPs then reinforced their stance by holding an executive board majority, effectively tying Sudarat's hands. As tensions simmer, the core of Thai Sang Thai seems on the verge of fracturing. The drama begs the question: Can Sudarat wrest back control and assert her leadership, or will the cracks continue to widen? Only time will tell how the shaken party navigates this tumultuous terrain. Based on a story by The Thaiger -- 2025-03-27

Thailand's Prisons Overflow as Overcrowding Hits Alarming Level File photo via Benar News Thailand's jails are under fire as overcrowding explodes, with new measures yet to materialise. The annual report from FIDH and the Union for Civil Liberty paints a grim picture of the situation, highlighting a 12% hike beyond the system's capacity. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355920-thailands-prisons-overflow-as-overcrowding-hits-alarming-level/

File photo via Benar News Thailand's jails are under fire as overcrowding explodes, with new measures yet to materialise. The annual report from FIDH and the Union for Civil Liberty paints a grim picture of the situation, highlighting a 12% hike beyond the system's capacity. Despite a fall in drug convictions over the past three years, 73% of inmates remain imprisoned for drug-related offences, with new drug laws potentially worsening the issue. In 2024, criticism from two UN bodies put Thailand's prison system back in the spotlight. The Committee Against Torture and a Working Group focusing on discrimination against women and girls stressed that overcrowding was top of their agenda. Despite awareness, Thai authorities lag behind in rolling out alternatives to incarceration, with reports indicating stalled progress. Vice-President of FIDH, Fatia Maulidiyanti, called for immediate reforms. She stressed that harsher drug laws could inflate prison numbers and advised prioritising rehabilitation over punishment in line with global norms. The number of those under death sentences also grew, hitting a post-2020 high of 364. Reports from inside these facilities reveal a bleak reality. Prisoners face cramped cells, poor-quality food, and inadequate healthcare. Allegations also include unethical punishment and unequal treatment based on socio-economic status. Limited supplies and activities further dampen inmates' prospects, with many fearing retaliation if they complain. The tragic death of human rights advocate Netiporn Sanesangkhom in May 2024 underscores the dire need for change. Though things like menstrual product supply have improved, a serious overhaul of Thailand's prison system is critical for meeting international standards. As it stands, Thailand's crowded cells cry out for meaningful reform. Based on a story by FIDH -- 2025-03-27

Woman Found Murdered in Luxury Sukhumvit Hotel in Bangkok Pictures courtesy of Wokpoint News A chilling discovery was made in a luxury hotel on Sukhumvit Road, where the body of a 30-year-old woman was found wrapped in bloodstained sheets. Authorities identified the deceased as Praowpilas, whose demise may be linked to her volatile relationship with a Singaporean boyfriend who left the hotel a day prior. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355918-woman-found-murdered-in-luxury-sukhumvit-hotel-in-bangkok/

Pictures courtesy of Wokpoint News BAMGKOK - A chilling discovery was made in a luxury hotel on Sukhumvit Road, where the body of a 30-year-old woman was found wrapped in bloodstained sheets. Authorities identified the deceased as Praowpilas, whose demise may be linked to her volatile relationship with a Singaporean boyfriend who left the hotel a day prior. On 26th March, around 6:20 PM, police from Thonglor station responded to a murder report at a hotel on Sukhumvit Soi 39, Khlong Tan Nuea, Bangkok. Thonglor officers, medical examiners from Chulalongkorn Hospital, forensic staff, and volunteers from the Poh Teck Tung Foundation swiftly arrived at the scene to investigate. The victim was found in a 22nd-floor room, where the door was unlocked and the air conditioning left on. Her body was discovered in the bathroom, wrapped in a blue blanket and bloodied white sheet. She was partially unclothed, with a white cloth tied around her head surrounded by significant blood loss. Personal items, including luxury bags and watches, were reportedly missing, leading officials to collect evidence from the scene. Friends of the deceased reported losing contact since the evening of 24th March. After filing a missing person's report with Thonglor police, they were escorted to her room, where they found the disturbing scene. The victim was recognised by identifying tattoos after removing the blanket. Praowpilas had a history of frequent disputes and physical altercations with her boyfriend, Mr Daniel, a Singaporean national. Building records revealed he checked out of the hotel on 25th March at around 3 PM. Investigators are currently reviewing CCTV footage to locate and question the boyfriend, who is a suspect in this tragic case. Based on a story by Workpoint News -- 2025-03-27

Similan Islands Fraud: Tourists Falsely Registered as Thais Picture courtesy of Daily News Authorities have unveiled a scheme at the Similan Islands where foreign tourists were falsely recorded as Thai to exploit ticket price differences, profiting by 400%. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355915-similan-islands-fraud-tourists-falsely-registered-as-thais/

Picture courtesy of Daily News Authorities have unveiled a scheme at the Similan Islands where foreign tourists were falsely recorded as Thai to exploit ticket price differences, profiting by 400%. In a surprise inspection, Yutthana Wimolmuang, head of Trang Province's Anti-Corruption Division, and his team discovered irregularities at the Similan Islands National Park. Despite only ten Thai visitors being registered via the E-ticket system, 50 foreign tourists were counted on-site, revealing a fraudulent operation of reselling tickets. This has led to the relocation of the park's chief, Lai-Gen Rittikorn Noonloy, pending further investigation. On 27 March, further inquiries exposed significant discrepancies in park revenues. Although foreign visitors increased, the E-ticket system inaccurately recorded them as Thais. This allowed the culprits to pocket the price difference, as Thai tickets are cheaper than those for foreigners. The ticket prices are as follows: Thais pay 50 baht for children and 100 baht for adults, whereas foreigners are charged 250 baht for children and 500 baht for adults. This discrepancy permits perpetrators to gain a 400% profit by registering foreign tourists as Thais. For instance, if 1,000 foreign tourists pay the Thai rate, the illegal profit could total 400,000 baht daily. The operation highlights severe exploitation of national park revenues. Authorities are urged to expedite a thorough investigation and enforce legal action. Based on a story by Daily News. -- 2025-03-27

French Gang Member Arrested in Phuket Over Jailbreak Plot Picture courtesy of 77kaoded Phuket immigration authorities have apprehended a 24-year-old French national, part of an international criminal gang, wanted for a deadly prison escape in France. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355900-french-gang-member-arrested-in-phuket-over-jailbreak-plot/

Picture courtesy of 77kaoded Phuket immigration authorities have apprehended a 24-year-old French national, part of an international criminal gang, wanted for a deadly prison escape in France. On 26 March 2568, following directives from Thailand's National Police and Immigration Bureau, a coordinated effort led to the capture of Mr. Adonis, a suspect in a high-profile jailbreak and murder of correctional officers back in France. The arrest, carried out by Phuket's immigration team alongside the Crime Suppression Division, comes after a tip-off from the French Embassy about the significant fugitive. According to statements, Mr. Adonis, who had been evading an Interpol warrant, admitted to his involvement in the violent escape and subsequent refuge on the Thai island. Picture courtesy of77kaoded Local authorities are continuing efforts to combat illegal activities by foreigners, safeguarding residents and tourists in Phuket. Based on a story by 77 kaoded. -- 2025-03-27

Teenagers Arrested for Broadcasting Brutal Murder of Trang Man Online In a disturbing incident in Trang, two 14-year-old boys were arrested for the brutal murder of a 33-year-old man, which they filmed and posted on social media. The shocking murder occurred in a rubber plantation and was reported by Esor News on March 25. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355873-teenagers-arrested-for-broadcasting-brutal-murder-of-trang-man-online/

Transport Minister Denies Secret Multi-Billion Rail Deal Allegations Photo courtesy of Thailand Construction and Engineering News Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit has categorically denied opposition claims that the government is secretly negotiating high-value agreements related to the high-speed rail project linking Bangkok’s main airports. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355863-transport-minister-denies-secret-multi-billion-rail-deal-allegations/

Thailand's Global Education Ranking Sparks Controversy and Scrutiny Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Thailand's education system has become a topic of heated discussion following its placement at 107th out of 203 countries in a global education survey by the World Population Review. This ranking has raised concerns among Thai officials, with some criticising the survey's methodology as misleading. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355878-thailands-global-education-ranking-sparks-controversy-and-scrutiny/

to continue: Thailand Live Thursday 27 March 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1355874-thailand-live-thursday-27-march-2025/

Bangkok Gears Up for 2028 Formula One Grand Prix with New Plans Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Thailand is on track to host a Formula One (F1) race in Bangkok’s Chatuchak district by 2028, following a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed by the Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT) and F1. This announcement comes after F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali’s meeting with Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra to discuss the potential Grand Prix. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355861-bangkok-gears-up-for-2028-formula-one-grand-prix-with-new-plans/

Paetongtarn Triumphs! Censure Vote No Match for Pheu Thai Power Thailand Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, center, reacts after a no-confidence vote against her was defeated in Bangkok, Thailand, Wednesday, March 26, 2025. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, the daughter of political heavyweight Thaksin Shinawatra, has firmly held her ground today. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355830-paetongtarn-triumphs-censure-vote-no-match-for-pheu-thai-power/

Thailand Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, center, reacts after a no-confidence vote against her was defeated in Bangkok, Thailand, Wednesday, March 26, 2025. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, the daughter of political heavyweight Thaksin Shinawatra, has firmly held her ground today. Surviving the awaited censure motion, she collected a robust 319 votes from loyal Pheu Thai-backed MPs. Meanwhile, just 162 MPs from the opposing People’s party voted against her, outnumbered and outmanoeuvred. The heat in parliament was undeniable, with Paetongtarn facing a barrage of accusations. Critics questioned her leadership credentials and accused her of failing to fulfil her promises. Adding fuel to the fire were claims linking her to her father’s controversial stay at the Police Hospital, under a cloak as a "critically ill" patient to dodge jail time. Despite the firestorm, Paetongtarn emerged unscathed with several MPs choosing not to vote at all. Seven lawmakers remained on the sidelines during the decision moment, neither supporting nor opposing the motion. This underlines her firm grip on the coalition, ensuring her leadership remains unchallenged, at least, for now. The backdrop of this political drama is a tale as old as power itself, where familial ties and old alliances play a significant role. The survival of this censure motion highlights the Pheu Thai Party's dominance in the Thai political landscape. The country's political dynamics remain fascinating, with stories like these continuing to unfold, gripping audiences both in the halls of power and everyday citizens. As the dust settles, speculation buzzes on what comes next for Paetongtarn and Thailand's future. The stakes remain high, with the Prime Minister steering through turbulent waters while critics linger, ready to challenge at the next round. For now, Paetongtarn has silenced the critics, but the political chess game continues. Based on a story by Thai Newsroom -- 2025-03-26

UPDATE: British Tourist's Identity Confirmed After Bangkok Footpath Death Picture courtesy of Metro UK A British tourist, now identified as 28-year-old Nick Weir from Salisbury, tragically lost his life in Bangkok’s Bang Sue district. Found on a city footpath, Weir died after a confrontation with karaoke bar workers spiralled out of control. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355701-british-man-dies-after-footpath-altercation-in-bangkok/page/4/#findComment-19685423

UPDATE: British Tourist's Identity Confirmed After Bangkok Footpath Death Picture courtesy of Metro UK A British tourist, now identified as 28-year-old Nick Weir from Salisbury, tragically lost his life in Bangkok’s Bang Sue district. Found on a city footpath, Weir died after a confrontation with karaoke bar workers spiralled out of control. The chaos began with erratic behaviour as Weir tried to enter a local bar, demanding beers. Bar staff stopped him, prompting a chase by staff on a motorcycle, leading to a violent struggle. Weir allegedly grabbed a phone in the scuffle, trying to escape but ended up pinned down by the workers. Police report that the workers claimed their actions weren't aggressive enough to be fatal. However, CCTV footage shows an intense confrontation, raising questions about what truly happened. Witnesses suspect Weir's erratic behaviour may have been drug-induced, and exhaustion could've contributed to his demise. Currently, the two workers are under police scrutiny, but no charges have been filed. An autopsy will clarify the cause of death. Meanwhile, the British Embassy has been informed, and support is provided to Weir's family. Based on a story by The Thaiger -- 2025-03-26

Trump Tariff Turmoil: Thai Car Market Skids to a Halt Picture courtesy of automoblog The wheels of Thailand's car industry are grinding slower as President Trump mulls harsh tariffs on imported vehicles. The proposed 25% levy, expected from April 2, has spread a chilling effect across global car markets. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355818-trump-tariff-turmoil-thai-car-market-skids-to-a-halt/

Picture courtesy of automoblog The wheels of Thailand's car industry are grinding slower as President Trump mulls harsh tariffs on imported vehicles. The proposed 25% levy, expected from April 2, has spread a chilling effect across global car markets. Key players are hesitating, with Surapong Paisitpatanapong from the Thai Federation of Industries noting a significant drop in orders for traditional petrol-powered cars. The landscape is murky: countries are holding back, waiting for more information on Trump's next move. The impact is visible. Thai car exports dove by 8.34% in February, with only 81,323 units shipped. The year's start has been bleak, with a whopping 18.1% decline in exports, reaching a mere 143,644 cars. Stricter emissions rules elsewhere are adding salt to the wound for Thailand’s automotive sector, adding further challenges in the market. As if exports weren't enough of a headache, the domestic scene looks equally grim. February saw local sales dip by 6.68% as tighter lending rules curbed buyers' appetites, leaving the first two months of 2025 with a 9.53% dip in sales at just 97,395 cars. Manufacturers are therefore seeing ripple effects, with February's production slumping by 13.6%. Optimistically, folks are pinning hopes on the ongoing Bangkok International Motor Show. Running until April 6, it’s seen as a lifeline with potential deals and discounts. Meanwhile, the government's 5-billion-baht loan initiative aimed at spurring SME pickups could jolt some life into the market. Surapong is pushing for leniency, asking that non-financial bodies be given the green light to offer loans, hoping to revive the stalling market. While clouds gather over Thailand's automotive future, the coming months are pivotal. All eyes are now on Trump’s looming decision, and until then, it's a waiting game. The industry anticipates that clearer directives will either slow down or fast-track a market recalibration. Based on a story by The Thaiger -- 2025-03-26

Foreign Women Detained in Bangkok Karaoke Raid Picture via Daily News Thai immigration police have detained 14 migrant workers in a karaoke restaurant in the Lat Krabang area, Bangkok, following a tip-off about illegal employment. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355807-foreign-women-detained-in-bangkok-karaoke-raid/