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Picture courtesy of Saudi Gazette The world's largest iceberg, A23a, is melting at a worrying rate due to rising global temperatures, posing a potential threat to Thailand's coastline over the coming 25 years, cautioned environmental expert Sonthi Kotchawat on Monday. Iceberg A23a, a massive block of ice covering around 3,500 square kilometres – an area over twice the size of Greater Bangkok – has been lodged off South Georgia Island, near Antarctica since it detached from the ice sheet in 1986. As global temperatures creep upwards, surpassing the Paris Agreement's 1.5 degrees Celsius target, concerns grow that A23a may fragment, grounding more icebergs into the Southern Ocean's key shipping lanes. Sonthi underscores a broader environmental impact. The break-up of A23a could disrupt vital shipping routes and jeopardise the habitats of local wildlife, including penguins and seals. Moreover, the iceberg's meltwater may contribute to plummeting plankton blooms, altering the local food chain dynamics by releasing locked minerals and nutrients. Adding to these concerns, the influx of fresh meltwater from A23a is likely to elevate sea levels, with implications for coastal areas. In Thailand—where coastal sea levels are already rising at approximately 5.8 millimetres annually—low-altitude locales such as Phra Samut Chedi in Samut Prakan, Bangkok's Bang Khun Thian district, and Bang Krachao in Samut Sakhon are at significant risk. Projections into 2050 suggest that without intervention, severe flooding could become more routine across Bangkok’s lower-lying regions, including Bang Kholaem, Bang Rak, Thon Buri, and others such as Bangkok Noi, Bang Na, Bang Kapi, Bang Khen, Don Muang, and Ramkhamhaeng. This would adversely affect over 10% of Thailand's population, reveals a Unesco report cited by Sonthi. Rising sea levels coupled with the changing climate represent a ticking time bomb for Thailand, exacerbating the vulnerability of its infrastructure and economy. Coastal management and climate adaptation become ever more critical as the data illustrates the compounded threat to both ecology and human settlements. The message calls for urgent action as stakeholders increase efforts to mitigate these potential impacts, emphasising the need for robust environmental policies and international cooperation. This complex interplay of factors underscores the urgency for a proactive approach as these environmental shifts no longer remain a distant possibility but a present unfolding reality, inevitably impacting millions in Thailand and beyond, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-03-25

Toddler Hospitalised with Bone-Deep Dog Bite in Buriram Picture courtesy of Daily News A two-year-old boy was seriously injured after being attacked by a family dog at a relative’s home in Buriram Province. The child, who had been playing at his grandmother's relative's house, suffered a deep wound to his leg, stretching 7 centimetres wide and involving tendons and bone. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355682-toddler-hospitalised-with-bone-deep-dog-bite-in-buriram/

Picture courtesy of Daily News A two-year-old boy was seriously injured after being attacked by a family dog at a relative’s home in Buriram Province. The child, who had been playing at his grandmother's relative's house, suffered a deep wound to his leg, stretching 7 centimetres wide and involving tendons and bone. On 24th March, it was reported that the incident occurred when the boy, familiar with the dog named ‘Oleang’, was unexpectedly bitten. The dog, previously known for its friendly demeanour, abruptly turned violent, leaving the boy’s grandmother, Mrs. Sin, in shock. She expressed disbelief that such an incident could occur, given the dog’s usual familiarity with her grandson. Mrs. Sin described how ‘Oleang’ approached the boy and bit his leg, causing panic among those present. It took several minutes for her and family members to free the child from the dog’s grip. The severe wound required medical intervention at a local hospital, where the child is being closely monitored for infection due to the depth of the injury. Speculation has arisen regarding the sudden change in the dog's behaviour. The dog's owner noted that ‘Oleang’ had appeared irritable in the days leading up to the attack, raising concerns about a possible rabies infection. As a precaution, the dog has been quarantined for observation, reported Daily News. -- 2025-03-25

Thailand Ranks 3rd in Global QR Code Payments, China Leads File photo for reference only China leads in global QR code use, with Thailand securing third place, according to recent data from Data Reportal. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355681-thailand-ranks-3rd-in-global-qr-code-payments-china-leads/

File photo for reference only China leads in global QR code use, with Thailand securing third place, according to recent data from Data Reportal. On 25th March 2025, Data Reportal released new figures highlighting the worldwide use of QR codes via smartphones in 2024. The results show that QR codes, largely used for making payments for goods and services, are most popular in China, with 67.4% of the population using them. Malaysia follows closely with 66.1%, while Thailand ranks third at 61.5%. Argentina and Brazil complete the top five, with utilisation rates of 61% and 60.8% respectively, reported Daily News. -- 2025-03-25

German Man Detained for Illegal Entry to Visit ill Thai Mother Picture courtesy of Daily News A 64-year-old German man was apprehended by immigration officials in Phang Nga for illegally entering Thailand to visit his critically ill Thai mother, having previously been deported. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355680-german-man-detained-for-illegal-entry-to-visit-ill-thai-mother/

Picture courtesy of Daily News A 64-year-old German man was apprehended by immigration officials in Phang Nga for illegally entering Thailand to visit his critically ill Thai mother, having previously been deported. On 24 March, Phang Nga's Immigration Police, led by Pol. Col. Wicha Champawan, detained Rainer Heinz at a residence in Thai Muang, charging him with unauthorised entry into the country. Officials reportedly acted on tips from locals about a foreign man residing at the house. Attempts to check his passport led him to try and escape through a back window, but he was soon caught. Investigation showed his passport bore Malaysian immigration stamps, yet lacked Thai entry stamps. Heinz confessed to travelling from Malaysia on 4 July, flying to Penang and then taking a boat to Langkawi before finally entering Thailand via longtail boat. He journeyed overland to his mother’s home in Thai Muang to visit her during her illness. This incident marks a return after an earlier deportation from Thailand. -- 2025-03-25

Thai Court Sets 2026 Pretrial Hearings for iCon Fraud Accusations Picture courtesy: MGR online In a significant development in the iCon Group fraud case, the Ratchada Criminal Court in Bangkok has scheduled pretrial hearings to begin in 2026. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355674-thai-court-sets-2026-pretrial-hearings-for-icon-fraud-accusations/

Picture courtesy: MGR online In a significant development in the iCon Group fraud case, the Ratchada Criminal Court in Bangkok has scheduled pretrial hearings to begin in 2026. The court announced on Monday that it will review the evidence and witness lists of both the prosecution and the defence in this high-profile fraud case involving the founder and CEO of iCon Group, Warathaphon “Boss Paul” Waratyaworrakul, and 16 other co-defendants. The Department of Special Investigation (DSI) is leading the prosecution against the defendants, who are charged with public fraud, fraudulent borrowing, operating an illegal direct sales business, amongst other related offences. Warathaphon and his associates are currently being held at the Bangkok Remand Prison and the Central Women's Correctional Institution. They were present in court for this week’s announcement. The DSI plans to present a robust case, bringing forward 41 documents and calling upon 24 witnesses to testify. These witnesses include police and DSI officials directly involved with the investigation, officers from the Department of Business Development who authorised the company's registration, bank representatives, and those closely connected to the defendants. The court has agreed to review the prosecution's evidence over six sessions, with dates set for February 18-20 and March 10-12, 2026. For the defence, 11 witnesses have been proposed, including three defendants and their legal representatives. Notably, Sitra Biabungkerd, a former Member of Parliament and now the group's lawyer, as well as Witoon Kengngam and representatives of donation recipients, will be called to support the defence's case. The defence has been granted three sessions to present their case, scheduled for March 31, April 2, and April 3, 2026. The proceedings are being closely watched given the scale and impact of the alleged fraud. If found guilty, the defendants could face severe penalties, considering the extensive nature of the allegations. The iCon Group case has drawn significant public and media attention due to its high stakes and the involvement of high-profile individuals within Thai society. Keeping abreast of this case is crucial as it unfolds, with developments possibly providing insights into the operations of fraudulent schemes and legal measures implemented to tackle them. Such cases underscore the importance of regulatory compliance in business, the role of vigilant legal systems, and the consequences of corporate malpractice in Thailand, where the conversion of 1 USD currently stands at roughly 37 Thai Baht, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-03-25

Bangkok Care Centre Faces Scrutiny Over Abuse Allegations Picture courtesy of Channel 3 In a troubling revelation, an elderly man suffering from Alzheimer’s was reportedly abused at a care centre in Bangkok's Bang Kapi district. His daughter, Tayanat Kajornnapapong, has bravely exposed the incident after facing dismissive attitudes from both the Bang Kapi care centre staff and local police. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355672-bangkok-care-centre-faces-scrutiny-over-abuse-allegations/

Picture courtesy of Channel 3 In a troubling revelation, an elderly man suffering from Alzheimer’s was reportedly abused at a care centre in Bangkok's Bang Kapi district. His daughter, Tayanat Kajornnapapong, has bravely exposed the incident after facing dismissive attitudes from both the Bang Kapi care centre staff and local police. Striving for justice for her 77-year-old father, Jongkit, Tayanat decided to go public with her story following failures by the care centre to address the situation adequately. The centre initially refused to provide the CCTV footage that captured the alleged abuse and even threatened legal action against Tayanat for her persistence in unveiling the truth. Tayanat explained her ordeal in an interview with Channel 3 yesterday, March 23. As a daily worker, she entrusted her bedridden father's care to the centre, paying a substantial 30,000 Baht monthly. She noticed something amiss in January when her father, Jongkit, used his left hand to support his right while eating, citing pain. She also discovered bite marks on his wrist. During the festive Chinese New Year, Tayanat distributed cash gifts to the caretakers and sought her father's opinion on each of them. In an alarming remark, Jongkit identified one caretaker as "evil," speaking in Chinese. Seeking clarity, Tayanat demanded CCTV evidence from the care centre. After initial refusals, she managed to obtain footage that confirmed her suspicions. However, filing a complaint at the Lat Phrao Police Station and reaching out to the Department of Health Service Support resulted in disappointing inertia. Driven by a steadfast desire for accountability, Tayanat approached renowned lawyer Paisarn Rueangrit, amplifying her call for action. This prompted a response from Thanakrit Jit-areerat, Assistant to the Minister of Public Health, promising an imminent raid on the care centre. This incident has spotlighted concerns within elderly care facilities, highlighting issues of neglect and lack of accountability in the protection of vulnerable individuals. Tayanat’s courageous stance may well catalyse reforms, with authorities now compelled to scrutinise operations within such institutions. The unfolding story underscores the critical need for vigilance, transparency, and empathy in care settings, urging stricter oversight to ensure the safety and dignity of those unable to advocate for themselves, reported The Thaiger -- 2025-03-25

Thai PM Defends Share, Land Acquisitions Amid Criticism Thailand's Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, left, and Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra greet to lawmakers before a no-confidence debate against the prime minister at Parliament in Bangkok, Thailand, Monday, March 24, 2025. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, amidst a heated censure debate in parliament, has defended her acquisition of shares worth billions of Baht and land holdings in Pathum Thani, insisting on their legitimacy and the lack of any tax evasion. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355670-thai-pm-defends-share-land-acquisitions-amid-criticism/

Thailand's Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, left, and Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra greet to lawmakers before a no-confidence debate against the prime minister at Parliament in Bangkok, Thailand, Monday, March 24, 2025. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, amidst a heated censure debate in parliament, has defended her acquisition of shares worth billions of Baht and land holdings in Pathum Thani, insisting on their legitimacy and the lack of any tax evasion. Facing scrutiny from opposition MPs, Ms Paetongtarn addressed the controversy surrounding her assets, which had become a focal point in the political arena on Monday. The opposition alleges that Ms Paetongtarn circumvented inheritance tax liabilities amounting to approximately THB 218.7 million by acquiring shares valued at THB 4.43 billion from her family under questionable terms. These transactions, they argue, took place between relatives with promissory notes that neither specified a repayment date nor required interest, raising suspicions over their legitimacy. Moreover, questions have been raised about the ownership of the Alpine golf course and real estate on roughly 900 rai in Pathum Thani. The land, the opposition claims, was historically a temple donation prohibited from private transfer, thus casting doubt over its legitimacy within the Shinawatra family holdings. "I might be younger than my parliamentary colleagues, yet my contribution to tax revenue is certainly larger," Ms Paetongtarn retorted during the debate, countering the accusations directed at her for possible tax evasion. She clarified that the share transactions were part of a corporate restructuring process initiated years earlier. Unable to pay upfront, she utilised promissory notes which she plans to settle in instalments starting next year. The prime minister further defended the family’s land purchases, stating they strictly concerned plots with proper title deeds, transactions that took place when she was merely 11. “Business restructuring inevitably involves tools like promissory notes,” Ms Paetongtarn emphasised, reassuring that such practices are standard business operations. In an appeal to her generation, Ms Paetongtarn urged for discussions to remain level-headed and constructive, recognising accomplishments across the political spectrum, stating, "We are the new generation willing to listen. Achievements deserve commendation and support, not needless divisions." In response, People’s Party MP Wiroj Lakkhanaadisorn, critical of Ms Paetongtarn's financial manoeuvres, remarked that while her tax payments outsize those of countless Thais, the essence of tax lies in its equal dignity under law. He underscored that regardless of the amount paid, the legal duty binds all taxpayers equally. The contentious exchange captures the heightened political climate where financial ethics converge with governance questions, leaving a public eager for transparency and accountability in leadership, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-03-25

Thailand's Ambitious Land Bridge Project Gains Global Interest Image courtesy of issuu Thailand is forging ahead with its ambitious Land Bridge project, a megastructure aimed at linking the Gulf of Thailand with the Andaman Sea. This development comes as the Thai government confirms continued commitment, spearheaded by Transport Minister, Suriya Jungrungreangkit, amid keen interest from international investors in China and the Middle East. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355666-thailands-ambitious-land-bridge-project-gains-global-interest/

Image courtesy of issuu Thailand is forging ahead with its ambitious Land Bridge project, a megastructure aimed at linking the Gulf of Thailand with the Andaman Sea. This development comes as the Thai government confirms continued commitment, spearheaded by Transport Minister, Suriya Jungrungreangkit, amid keen interest from international investors in China and the Middle East. The proposed Land Bridge, estimated at a staggering cost of 1 trillion Baht, was introduced in a nationwide initiative to improve Thailand’s logistics and bolster its standing in the global marketplace. Minister Suriya, a prominent figure in this initiative, embarked on a promotional tour to attract global investment. The tour successfully captured the attention of several key players, including Dubai Port World, a company expressing significant interest in participating in the project’s bidding process. To facilitate this monumental task, the Office of Transport and Traffic Policy and Planning (OTP) has crafted the Southern Special Economic Development Zone (SEC) Bill. This legislation serves as a regulatory framework and has been made available for public review online. The decision to go live with the bill is the first step in a highly structured process towards realising the Land Bridge. Public consultation sessions are scheduled next month in Bangkok and Surat Thani, where stakeholders will have the opportunity to voice their opinions. Following these consultations, a comprehensive summary of public feedback will be sent to the Ministry of Transport. Should all proceed as planned, the SEC Bill is expected to secure cabinet approval by May, prior to its submission to parliament. Minister Suriya is confident that the SEC Bill will be enacted this year, enabling the commencement of the bidding process in the following year. Already, preliminary discussions with potential investors have played a crucial role in shaping the Terms of Reference (TOR) for the project. The government’s strategic approach is designed to attract both domestic and international investors under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, which offers a 50-year concession for project development and management. The Land Bridge aims to significantly modernise Thailand's maritime infrastructure. It involves the transformation of Chumphon Port into a modern deep-sea hub, connecting it to Ranong Port. The latter will evolve into a pivotal freight container port, serving as a vital trade gateway to South Asia, the Middle East, and Africa, strengthening ties under the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC). Through this project, the Thai government articulates its vision of enhancing regional connectivity and transforming maritime transport, ultimately strengthening the nation’s economic competitiveness on the world stage, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-03-25

British Nationals Face Increased Scrutiny as Thailand Cracks Down on Crime File photo for reference only courtesy of Daily News Thailand has long been a popular destination for British tourists, but recent reports suggest a concerning trend: an apparent uptick in criminal activities involving British nationals. This development has captured the attention of both Thai authorities and international observers. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355655-british-nationals-face-increased-scrutiny-as-thailand-cracks-down-on-crime/

File photo for reference only courtesy of Daily News Brits Behaving Badly? Crime Surge in Thailand Raises Eyebrows! British tourists in Thailand are attracting unwanted attention amid reports of increasing criminal activity linked to UK visitors. This surge has prompted Thai authorities to reconsider their visa policies, potentially slashing the 60-day visa-exempt stay due to rising concerns. Columnist Stickman observed the trend, pointing to frequent news reports covering arrests involving Brits. Notorious incidents have put a spotlight on young men from cities like London, Liverpool, and Leicester, casting a shadow over travellers' reputations. Although compiling exact crime statistics involving foreigners in Thailand is challenging, it's clear the situation is gaining attention. The Bangkok-based British embassy reported 220 arrests or detentions of British citizens in Thailand last year. Yet, details remain scarce, leaving questions about the severity and nature of these offences. Thai police technology has made impressive strides. Advanced facial recognition tech recently unravelled the case of a British suspect using a fake passport. Tracking drones have also located Brits overstaying their visas for years. The Technology Crime Suppression Bureau is cracking down on online gambling and illegal businesses, thanks to cutting-edge technology. Immigration offices now employ BMW smart cars and mobile units with onboard computers, focusing on illegal workers and visa defaulters. Furthermore, Gorilla Technology Group, headquartered in London, has partnered with Thai tourist police to enhance international databases for facial recognition and license-plate tracking. This alliance boosts efforts to track wanted individuals and identify possible offenders. Public participation is also playing a crucial role. Extensive use of public video cameras and amateur footage has proven invaluable. In a recent case, a phone video captured a Brit attacking a bar girl, leading to swift justice. Another case saw a Manchester man apprehended in Pattaya after being caught on video trying to dispose of heroin. Yet, the system isn't without flaws. Some officers are susceptible to bribery, and reports of foreigners bypassing judicial processes with cash are not uncommon. Nonetheless, British criminals constitute a small fraction of the foreigners involved in Thailand’s 500,000 annual criminal cases. Naivety, particularly among drug mules, appears a common pitfall. These individuals often underestimate the effectiveness of Thai security and the tech designed to catch them. As a head of Phuket immigration pointed out, "If we don’t catch you, new technology will." In an era of heightened surveillance and international cooperation, the message is clear for those travelling to Thailand: abide by the law or face the consequences. British and Thai authorities are united in their efforts to curb crime, striving to ensure that the friendly face of tourism isn’t marred by criminal activities. Based on a story by Pattaya Mail. -- 2025-03-25

Motorbike Driver Duped by Counterfeit Banknote Scam in Bangkok Photo via Facebook/ ฅนข่าว ต้นปราการ In a distressing tale from Samut Prakan province near Bangkok, motorcycle taxi rider Saksan Phungphat fell victim to a cunning scam, losing nearly 30,000 baht to an artful con involving counterfeit US banknotes. Despite reporting the scam, local police have yet to apprehend the scammer, leaving Saksan, 43, in financial distress, compounded by the impending birth of his child. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355631-motorbike-driver-duped-by-counterfeit-banknote-scam-in-bangkok/

Phuket Police Probe Fake Currency Scare as Foreign Women Detained Picture courtesy of Scot Scoop News Phuket police are on high alert following an incident involving two foreign women allegedly attempting to exchange counterfeit US dollars at a local currency exchange. Staff at the exchange, located near a major Cape Panwa hotel, became suspicious of six $50 notes amounting to 9,750 baht. Upon notifying the police, officers raided the women's hotel rooms, uncovering more notes, which were sent for verification. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355616-phuket-police-probe-fake-currency-scare-as-foreign-women-detained/

Thai PM Paetongtarn Accused of Being a 'Tax Dodger' by MP Picture courtesy of THai PBS People's Party MP Wiroj Lakkhanaadisorn made waves today with serious allegations against Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, accusing her of evading taxes on a transfer of shares valued at approximately 4.44 billion baht. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355613-thai-pm-paetongtarn-accused-of-being-a-tax-dodger-by-mp/

to continue: Thailand Live Tuesday 25 March 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1355622-thailand-live-tuesday-25-march-2025/

Thailand Cracks Down on Vapes with Severe Penalties and Public Reporting Photo by mauro_grigollo via Canva Thailand has intensified its stance on e-cigarettes, with individuals caught with these illegal items facing up to five years in prison and substantial fines. Under Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, who initially favoured legalisation during her campaign, the government has reversed course, emphasising public health concerns, particularly among teens and children. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355621-thailand-cracks-down-on-vapes-with-severe-penalties-and-public-reporting/

Thai PM Paetongtarn Accused of Being a 'Tax Dodger' by MP Picture courtesy of THai PBS People's Party MP Wiroj Lakkhanaadisorn made waves today with serious allegations against Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, accusing her of evading taxes on a transfer of shares valued at approximately 4.44 billion baht. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355613-thai-pm-paetongtarn-accused-of-being-a-tax-dodger-by-mp/

Picture courtesy of THai PBS People's Party MP Wiroj Lakkhanaadisorn made waves today with serious allegations against Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, accusing her of evading taxes on a transfer of shares valued at approximately 4.44 billion baht. Wiroj claims that over 218.7 million baht in taxes was not paid, stemming from shares transferred to the prime minister by family members back in 2016. The drama unfolded during the censure debate, where Wiroj unveiled that the prime minister had issued nine promissory notes to her relatives, including her two siblings, mother, uncle, and an aunt, as a means of compensation for these shares. These promissory notes laid out schedules for repayment but notably excluded any mention of interest, something Wiroj believes could mask an implicit gift—a crucial factor as Thai law exempts company share purchases from taxes but requires tax payment on shares received as gifts. The MP raised constitutional concerns as he questioned whether the shares were genuinely purchased, pointing to Section 160 of Thailand's Constitution. This section mandates that all citizens pay taxes on taxable income and stipulates that a prime minister must be honest and uphold ethical standards. Wiroj put forth a pertinent question: “How can Paetongtarn qualify as prime minister if she hasn’t paid income tax?” While Wiroj acknowledged the significance of having a woman from the new generation in leadership, he stressed that lack of transparency could tarnish both Paetongtarn's reputation and her administration. He urged the prime minister to address these allegations head-on, insisting it would not only clear her name but also fortify her government's legitimacy. This political drama comes against a backdrop of heightened scrutiny and expectation for ethical governance in Thailand. Wiroj, as an opposition member, maintains he respects Paetongtarn's role but urges transparency as an obligation owed to the Thai populace. As observers from all walks of life follow this unfolding story, the allegations pose pivotal questions about ethical governance and transparency within Thailand’s political landscape. Whether the prime minister’s response will soothe or fuel further debate remains to be seen, but for now, the pressure is on for clarity and accountability at the highest levels of government, reported Thai PBS. -- 2025-03-24

Thaksin Concedes: Yingluck's Songkran Return Delayed Again Picture courtesy of Thai Rath In a candid turn of events, former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has admitted that his sister, Yingluck Shinawatra, will not be returning to Thailand for this year’s Songkran festival, dashing previous hopes of a family reunion for the traditional New Year celebrations. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355579-thaksin-concedes-yinglucks-songkran-return-delayed-again/