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Thailand’s domestic tourism spending is projected to fall short of the government’s ambitious 1.2 trillion baht target, owing to economic concerns and rising travel costs, according to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT). Speaking on the matter, Somradee Chitchong, TAT's Deputy Governor for Domestic Marketing, expressed confidence that domestic trips would hit 210 million this year, surpassing their initial target of 200 million. However, she acknowledged that the 1.2 trillion baht revenue goal might be out of reach due to persistent economic issues from earlier in the year. Tourism and Sports Minister Sermsak Pongpanit indicated at a recent Association of Thai Travel Agents’ meeting that the coming six months would be a critical period for the tourism sector to aim for the revised revenue target of 3.5 trillion baht, elevated from the earlier projection of 3 trillion baht. He mentioned the challenge of increasing domestic revenue from the initial goal of 1.08 trillion baht to 1.2 trillion baht. Somradee pointed out that local tourists have curtailed their shopping expenses amidst economic uncertainties. "Many tourists visited local shops but prefer contacting operators’ online stores to purchase products later, which delays spending," she explained. Elevated airfares have also eaten into tourists' budgets, resulting in less spending on shopping during trips. She observed that while people continue to travel, they are exercising greater financial caution. Even those not directly affected by economic downturns are influenced by negative news and stock market uncertainties, prompting reduced travel spending. Interestingly, affluent travellers are choosing destinations with weaker currencies, like Japan. The Tourism and Sports Ministry’s data on spending—excluding transport costs from the origin and focusing on expenditures at the destination such as hotels, shopping, and dining—suggests that this year's overall revenue growth will be modest. In efforts to stimulate the market during the low season, TAT is backing the upcoming Thai Teaw Thai Fair, set for June 27 to 30, aiming to achieve at least 200 million baht in transactions over the four-day event. Picture courtesy: Bangkok Insiders -- 2024-06-28 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Foreigner fined for threatening Thai cyclist with dogs video screenshot Trat - On the morning of June 26, 2024, Mr. Thakorn, aged 60, spoke out about a concerning incident for many people in Mai Rut Subdistrict. He warned villagers walking or cycling near the public beach to beware of dogs from a nearby resort. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330955-foreigner-fined-for-threatening-thai-cyclist-with-dogs/

Foreigner fined for threatening Thai cyclist with dogs Trat - On the morning of June 26, 2024, Mr. Thakorn, aged 60, spoke out about a concerning incident for many people in Mai Rut Subdistrict. He warned villagers walking or cycling near the public beach to beware of dogs from a nearby resort. Mr. Thakorn recounted how he typically bikes for exercise near the beach every morning. However, on this day, a group of about 5-6 dogs from the resort ran towards him, causing him to fall off his bicycle in fear. As he stood to protect himself, a foreigner emerged from the resort and forbade him from being on the beach, speaking in English. The foreigner then pushed Mr. Thakorn three times, causing him to fall and injure his leg. Mr. Thakorn reported the incident to Mai Rut Police Station at 9:00 a.m. the same day. The police summoned the foreigner, identified as Mr. Mario, who claimed to be the resort owner. He admitted to releasing the dogs and making threats against Mr. Thakorn. The police fined Mr. Mario 1,000 baht for his actions before releasing him. Mr. Thakorn expressed his concern to the news team, emphasizing his desire for the police to thoroughly investigate Mr. Matio's background. He highlighted that he did not seek damages but wanted the incident to serve as a warning to others in the area. He also criticized the police for not checking Mr. Mario's visa status and not reviewing CCTV footage from the resort. Meanwhile, Grandma Sombat, aged 78, a local villager who collects antiques for a living, shared her own experience of being bitten by a dog from the resort while gathering old items in front of it. She received 200 baht in compensation from Mr. Mario's wife. Despite the public beach status, villagers now avoid walking past the resort due to fear of dog attacks. -- 2024-06-28 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Lisa’s “ROCKSTAR” MV surpasses two million views first hour of release Thai K-pop sensation “Lisa” is back with her newest release, “ROCKSTAR”, which surpassed two million views just one hour after its official release. This is her first solo release since founding her own company, LLOUD Co. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330949-lisa’s-“rockstar”-mv-surpasses-two-million-views-first-hour-of-release/

Thai K-pop sensation “Lisa” is back with her newest release, “ROCKSTAR”, which surpassed two million views just one hour after its official release. This is her first solo release since founding her own company, LLOUD Co. Thai netizens were glued to their screens at 7am today, as Lalisa Manoban’s new video was officially released on LLOUD’s Youtube channel. Many fans were already hyped, with a teaser of the video having been released on Wednesday, especially the scene depicting the artist standing under a spotlight in the middle of Bangkok’s Chinatown, known locally as Yaowarat Road. This came as a surprise to many, as the famous street is usually bustling with locals and tourists, especially at night. In the video no crowds are to be seen. Full story: Thai PBS 2024-06-28 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Teen's Sacrifice for Family Inspires Nation’s Support Picture courtesy: MGR online SUKOTHAI: -- Generous individuals rallied to support a devoted Thai teen who put his education on hold to care for his ailing grandmother. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330947-thai-teens-sacrifice-for-family-inspires-nation’s-support/

SUKOTHAI: -- Generous individuals rallied to support a devoted Thai teen who put his education on hold to care for his ailing grandmother. The 15-year-old Ae’s daily struggle involves walking barefoot for over 14 kilometres to collect and sell recyclable materials to support his grandmother and younger siblings. The family lives in a modest house in a rural area, lacking both electricity and running water. Kind-hearted residents from various provinces sent a substantial amount of essential items to Ae and his family. Donations included clothes, shoes, school supplies, rice, dried food, and other everyday necessities. Ae expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the benefactors. “I am overjoyed and deeply thankful to everyone who has helped us. Your kindness has allowed me to return to school,” he said. Ae’s aunt-in-law and grandmother, visibly emotional, addressed the numerous accusations that had been directed at them. They were accused of selling donated items and receiving hundreds of thousands of baht in aid, as well as being accused of not working. “None of these accusations are true. All the donated items are still with us. Anyone is welcome to come and see for themselves. You can also check our bank book to see how much money has been deposited. We have never solicited donations,” they stated. Ae’s grandmother further explained that any past mistakes were solely the actions of one family member and should not taint the entire household. “If we had sold the donated items, what would the children eat? We work whenever we can find jobs, and if there is no work, we collect recyclables, pick vegetables, gather honeycombs, or fish to sell. Just because one person made a mistake, does that mean everyone in the house is guilty?” she questioned. The outpouring of support has given Ae hope to continue his education and dream of a brighter future for his family. Picture courtesy: MGR online -- 2024-06-28 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Meth Pill Crackdown Nets Over 46,000 Pills in Khon Kaen Picture courtesy: Khaosod In a major drug crackdown across Khon Kaen province, authorities have seized over 46,000 methamphetamine pills and assets worth more than 20 million baht in a rigorous month-long operation. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330945-meth-pill-crackdown-nets-over-46000-pills-in-khon-kaen/

In a major drug crackdown across Khon Kaen province, authorities have seized over 46,000 methamphetamine pills and assets worth more than 20 million baht in a rigorous month-long operation. Khon Kaen Provincial Governor Kraisorn Kongchalad, alongside Provincial Police Chief Anuwat Suwannaphum, representatives from the Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB), and the Khon Kaen Public Health Office, held a press conference to announce the stringent measures and their results. Targeting 26 districts and focusing on 139 specific sites within 30 villages, the operation led to the arrest of 154 individuals. Confiscated items included 9,250 meth pills, 0.5 grammes of crystal meth, 11 firearms, 83 rounds of ammunition, and assets valued at 1,183,670 baht. Governor Kraisorn stressed that since June 1, comprehensive efforts have been in place to combat drug issues across all districts. Police conducted searches in 626 locations within 90 villages, resulting in the arrest of 369 drug users, 410 dealers, and four persons involved in other crimes. In total, authorities seized 46,922 meth pills, 909.56 grammes of crystal meth, 2.35 grammes of ketamine, 52 firearms, and 254 rounds of ammunition. Assets worth 20,631,070 baht were confiscated. Kraisorn praised the success in apprehending offenders and encouraging drug users toward rehab. A total of 287 people have voluntarily entered rehab programmes across 26 districts. During a visit to a rehab centre in Nam Phong District, they found the youngest patient—a mere 12-year-old. This highlighted the need to address deeper social issues contributing to drug use. The governor stated, "All rehab centres accept patients voluntarily. They can stay as long as needed, and once drug-free, they can return home. Follow-up checks are random within three months to ensure they remain clean." Khon Kaen, ranking first in drug crackdowns followed by Roi Et, aims to become drug-free. Authorities continue to dismantle drug networks, ensuring ongoing operations to eradicate drug trafficking and abuse in the province. Picture courtesy: Khaosod -- 2024-06-28 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

PM Embarks on Northeastern Tour to Tackle Water and Drug Issues Picture courtesy: National News Bureau of Thailand This weekend, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin embarks on a vital tour of Ubon Ratchathani, Si Sa Ket, and Surin provinces, focusing on pressing issues such as water management and drug control. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330944-pm-embarks-on-northeastern-tour-to-tackle-water-and-drug-issues/

Picture courtesy: National News Bureau of Thailand This weekend, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin embarks on a vital tour of Ubon Ratchathani, Si Sa Ket, and Surin provinces, focusing on pressing issues such as water management and drug control. Government spokesman Chai Wacharong revealed that the Prime Minister's trip, commencing this afternoon in Ubon Ratchathani, will include various engagements aimed at addressing both environmental and social challenges in the region. In Ubon Ratchathani, PM Srettha will begin by observing the traditional making of Buddhist Lent candles at Wat Maha Wanaram. This cultural engagement is followed by interactions with local vendors and residents at the riverside walking street, providing him with grassroots insights into the community's daily lives. Saturday's itinerary includes a visit to the Kham Nam Saap overpass construction in Warin Chamrap District, followed by an inspection of flood prevention efforts at Huai Nam Chang. Later, the Prime Minister will convene a meeting at Kantharalak District Office in Si Sa Ket focused on tackling drug problems and improving water management. In the afternoon, he is slated to kick off the initiative to plant 72 million trees, symbolising a significant environmental effort. Additionally, he will visit the relics of Luang Pu Suang at Luang Pu Suang Wat Phraipattana College of Technology and address local water concerns at Wat Sa Ban Sanuan. His day will conclude with a stop at the youth football training centre at Sisaket United Football Club, underscoring his support for community and sports development. Continuing on Sunday, PM Srettha will assess the conditions at Huai Kaew Reservoir in Surin's Rattanaburi District. He is then expected to chair a provincial development plan meeting at the district office. The tour will wrap up as the Prime Minister departs from Buriram Airport for Bangkok. This tour underscores the government's commitment to addressing regional issues directly, aiming to provide sustainable solutions for water management and drug prevention across northeastern Thailand -- 2024-06-28 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe .

Football heroes: Kent veterans lead England to World Cup glory Photo of Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Kent Online UK In a sensational victory, a group of seasoned footballers from Kent in southeast England showed Gareth Southgate’s 2024 squad how to do it as England Veterans secured the Seniors World Cup in Bangkok. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330943-football-heroes-kent-veterans-lead-england-to-world-cup-glory/

In a sensational victory, a group of seasoned footballers from Kent in southeast England showed Gareth Southgate’s 2024 squad how to do it as England Veterans secured the Seniors World Cup in Bangkok. With a dramatic 1-0 win against New Zealand in the final, the over-40s squad celebrated their triumph earlier this month. New Whitstable manager 41 year old Jamie Coyle was instrumental in the team’s success. Joining him were Chatham’s Matt Bodkin and Lee Hook, who was part of Ben Smith’s Ramsgate management team last season. Coyle stated that most of the players are based up north or in the Midlands. “Paul Bell, the manager, said to me, ‘If you know a few guys that might want to help out, just let me know.’” Coyle’s connections proved invaluable. “Now, I’m getting a few messages from people like Danny Kedwell. Paul is sort of using me as a bit of a southern scout for players who are still fit and now in their 40s. Bods and Hooky are good mates of mine. They did really well.” Coyle, a former defender for Margate, Dartford, Welling, Maidstone, Ramsgate, and Erith & Belvedere, even captained England Veterans in their campaign-opening goalless draw with Australia. The team advanced from a tough group, edging out the hosts and Vietnam on goal difference, and defeated Iran 1-0 in the semi-finals despite being reduced to 10 men. Steve Jones, formerly of Crewe and Burnley, was the tournament hero, scoring seven goals, including the decisive strike in the final. Coyle reflected on the victory. “It was brilliant. I had the opportunity to captain the team for the opening game against Australia. You only see the football side, but we went to local schools to do some coaching and took out kits for the youngsters. It was a really rewarding trip.” As Coyle gears up to lead Whitstable in the Southern Counties East Premier Division promotion push, he’s ready to transition from player to manager, reported Kent Online, UK. “I’ve still got a little bit of motivation to keep myself ticking over, but it was a nice way to officially hang the boots up in non-league football terms. We had five games in six days – in 62-degree humidity! Now, I’m really looking forward to trying to be successful at Whitstable.” Picture of Jamie Coyle in action for England Veterans courtesy of KentOnline by Puntid Tantivangphaisal TOP Photo courtesy of Kent Online UK Source: The Thaiger 2024-06-28 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Friday 28 June 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330939-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-friday-28-june-2024/

Thailand's new Senate has been finalized, with 200 candidates set to replace those previously appointed by the junta. Many prominent candidates did not make the cut. According to Thai law, candidates for senatorial seats are only permitted to introduce themselves to other candidates, not to the media or the public. The Election Commission will verify the qualifications of the selected senators before announcing the final results on July 3rd. Deputy police chief Surachate Hakparn says he is preparing to sue Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin and the 11 other members of the Police Commission for his dismissal. Surachate says the commission did not consider his case fairly. The Court of Appeal has reduced the prison sentence from five years to one year. of the well known public figure Suthep Thaug-suban, who was convicted of leading protests to shut down Bangkok in 2014, 39 members of his group were indicted, on numerous charges including treason, terrorism, inciting people to join them in the protest, illegal assembly and causing a public disturbance. The 2014 military coup led by general Prayut followed a few months later in May. Mr Suthep was yesterday freed on bail. The Bhutanese prime minister on his visit to Bangkok yesterday said Bhutan and Thailand could work together to push forward sustainable tourism, adding it would be challenging given that Bhutan has a population of 700,000 people compared to 67 million in Thailand, — but the two countries could work together in sharing their knowledge and success stories. Around the region. Hong Kong police will ramp up security measures for the 27th anniversary of the city’s return to Chinese rule on Monday, deploying more than 4,000 officers and guarding against so-called seditious or disruptive activities. Top leaders from mainland China are not scheduled to visit and no fireworks show would be held to mark the July 1st celebrations. Todays’ WEATHER Chiang Mai and the north: Cloudy with thundershowers 34C degrees celsius Bangkok: sunny partly cloudy with showers 34 Pattaya: Sunny fairly cloudy Cloudy 32 Phuket and the south: Sunny partly cloudy Cloudy 32 Hua Hin: Sunny partly cloudy Cloudy with isolated showers later in the day, 33 AQI: green which is good Green clear, yellow moderate, Orange High, Red unhealthy. Credits: Bangkok Post, The Nation, Asean Now, Khaosod English, Hua Hin Today, The Pattaya News, Phuket News, Channel News Asia, South China Morning Post, The Straits Times. The Irrawaddy. Windy.com. Wunderground.com -- SURF 102.5 FM 2024-06-24 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

AirAsia operates flights betweeen Kuala Lumpur and Chiang Rai by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of AirAsia Newsroom AirAsia will be launching a direct route from Kuala Lumpur to Chiang Rai, launching on November 2 with three weekly flights. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330935-airasia-operates-flights-betweeen-kuala-lumpur-and-chiang-rai/

AirAsia will be launching a direct route from Kuala Lumpur to Chiang Rai, launching on November 2 with three weekly flights. To celebrate this exciting addition, the airline is offering an irresistible deal: Free seats for the inaugural flights. The free seat promotion applies to the base fare for one-way flights, excluding airport taxes, MAVCOM fees, fuel surcharges, and other charges. All-in fares start from 186 Malaysian Ringgits (about 1,452 baht) one way. Terms and conditions apply. This promotion is available for booking on AirAsia MOVE (formerly the AirAsia Superapp) and airasia.com from today, June 27 until June 30. The travel period spans from November 2 to February 27 next year, providing ample opportunity for an unforgettable adventure. AirAsia will operate flights between Kuala Lumpur and Chiang Rai thrice weekly on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. Flight AK 871 will depart from Kuala Lumpur at 12.25pm and land in Chiang Rai at 2.15pm. Flight AK 872 leaves the northern Thai province at 2.45pm and touches down at the Malaysian capital at 6.55pm. Chiang Rai, often hailed as the paradise of northern Thailand, boasts an array of cultural and natural wonders. Visitors can marvel at the architectural splendour of the White Temple and Blue Temple, both celebrated for their intricate and unique designs. Nature lovers will be enthralled by the scenic beauty of the tea plantations at Choui Fong and the lush trails leading to Khun Korn Waterfall. The city’s historic landmarks, including the Golden Triangle and Tham Luang Cave, offer a rich tapestry of experiences for travellers seeking both adventure and tranquillity. In addition to the free seats, AirAsia is also offering a generous 15% discount on all seats for flights to over 130 destinations, including popular spots like Chiang Mai, Perth, Sydney, Almaty, Beijing, Tokyo, Seoul, and Amritsar. The 15% discount applies to the base fare for one-way flights, excluding airport taxes, MAVCOM fees, fuel surcharges, and other charges. Terms and conditions apply. This promotion celebrates AirAsia’s recent accolade as the World’s Best Low-Cost Airline by Skytrax, reported AirAsia Newsroom. The discount is available for bookings made from today until June 30, for travel between July 8 and March 20, 2025. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of AirAsia Newsroom Source: The Thaiger 2024-06-28 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Pattaya Rushes to Beautify Bali Hai Pier Following Prime Minister’s Orders By Aim Tanakorn Pattaya City deployed a large team of workers from the Department of Resource and Environment and related agencies to clean the Bali Hai Pier yesterday, June 26th, following Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s orders. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330934-pattaya-rushes-to-beautify-bali-hai-pier-following-prime-minister’s-orders/

Pattaya City deployed a large team of workers from the Department of Resource and Environment and related agencies to clean the Bali Hai Pier yesterday, June 26th, following Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s orders. The big-cleaning was in response to Thailand’s Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s official visit to Pattaya on June 22nd to address tourism issues. One of the places he visited was the Bali Hai Pier where he instructed Pattaya officials to remove overhead power and communication lines and improve the area’s overall cleanliness. Following this, Mr. Manoch Nongyai, Deputy Mayor of Pattaya, visited the pier yesterday along with the heads of the City’s Construction and Maintenance Department, the Botany Department, and other relevant officials. They then launched a big-cleaning of the pier, which focused on removing debris and organizing cables and wires. The work is expected to be fully completed within 3-4 days, Mr. Manoch announced. By Aim Tanakorn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-06-28 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Pattaya Police Rescue Chinese Man who was Allegedly Kidnapped by Fellow Chinese National By Aim Tanakorn PHOTO: TMN Cable TV Pattaya Pattaya police and immigration officers rescued a 32-year-old Chinese national today after he was allegedly abducted and held captive in a pickup truck by his fellow Chinese gambler, following a high-stakes football betting loss. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330933-pattaya-police-rescue-chinese-man-who-was-allegedly-kidnapped-by-fellow-chinese-national/

Pattaya police and immigration officers rescued a 32-year-old Chinese national today after he was allegedly abducted and held captive in a pickup truck by his fellow Chinese gambler, following a high-stakes football betting loss. The incident occurred at 3 AM today, June 27th, in front of a Chinese restaurant on Pattaya Second Road. Authorities rescued a Chinese victim, identified only as Mr. Fu, who was reportedly held captive in a white pickup truck in front of the unidentified restaurant. According to Mr. Fu’s statement to the police, he met with the suspect, Mr. Tian, his Chinese gambling friend, and Mr. Pichet, his Thai friend, around 8 PM yesterday to negotiate a football betting debt. Mr. Fu explained that he had invited customers to gamble on football matches with Mr. Tian, who acted as the bookmaker. However, Mr. Fu’s clients lost 24,000 yuan or over 120,000 Thai baht in bets and then fled. Mr. Tian then demanded that Mr. Fu pay the debt himself. By Aim Tanakorn PHOTO: TMN Cable TV Pattaya Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-06-28 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Cameroonian Man Seeks Fortune at Thai Temple Ceremony Picture courtesy: Khaosod A Cameroonian man recently joined a sacred ceremony at Wat Sawang Arom, Nakhon Pathom, to seek divine blessings and lucky numbers for his Thai wife. The event, held on June 26 at 11am, drew a crowd eager for prosperity and good fortune. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330932-cameroonian-man-seeks-fortune-at-thai-temple-ceremony/

A Cameroonian man recently joined a sacred ceremony at Wat Sawang Arom, Nakhon Pathom, to seek divine blessings and lucky numbers for his Thai wife. The event, held on June 26 at 11am, drew a crowd eager for prosperity and good fortune. Wat Sawang Arom is a popular destination, particularly as the lottery draw approaches. Visitors pray to sacred figures like Phra Ngern Phra Thong (the Golden Buddha), Luang Phor Ruai, and the famed Kumarn Thong Nong Kao Love Love 30 million. Phra Kru Yati Thammanuyut, or Luang Pho Pae, led the ceremony, performing the yantra tattoo ritual believed to bring luck and protection. Devotees from Thailand, Cameroon, and Taiwan were among those attending, hoping to receive the abbot's blessing. Pitsanu Promsont, a 45-year-old businessman, attended with his Cameroonian friend, Frankie Romero, a 31-year-old football coach. Pitsanu shared that they offered a toy backhoe to the spirits, receiving numbers 17, 15, and 7 from shaking bamboo sticks. Romero made a memorable entrance on a scooter, heading directly to Kumarn Thong Nong Kao. He offered the scooter to the spirit and asked for lucky numbers, shaking the urn to receive numbers 8 and 4. Romero expressed his intent to share his fortune with his Thai wife. As the lottery draw nears, Wat Sawang Arom continues to be a magnet for those seeking divine intervention in their quest for luck. The temple remains central for devotees hoping to find the numbers that could transform their lives. Picture courtesy: Khaosod -- 2024-06-28 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Parents Warned After Child Rescued from Locked Car in Chon Buri Picture courtesy: Khaosod A two-year-old child was left locked inside a car after her parents stopped at a petrol station. Rescuers took more than 20 minutes to unlock the car, prompting warnings against leaving children alone in vehicles. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330931-parents-warned-after-child-rescued-from-locked-car-in-chon-buri/

A two-year-old child was left locked inside a car after her parents stopped at a petrol station. Rescuers took more than 20 minutes to unlock the car, prompting warnings against leaving children alone in vehicles. Emergency responders from Thammarat Maneerat Foundation in Chon Buri were alerted to a child trapped inside a car at 2:10 pm today, June 27, at PT Meng Hui petrol station, located on a bypass road towards Bangkok in Ban Suan, Mueang District, Chon Buri. They quickly arrived at the scene with a team of vehicle door specialists. A Mitsubishi Xpander Cross was found parked with its engine running but all four doors were locked. Inside, a two-year-old girl was seen playing calmly. Outside the vehicle, her worried parents, Witawat and Jirapatch, were anxiously peering through the windows. Rescue personnel worked for approximately 20 minutes before successfully unlocking the car door, much to the relief of the parents. The girl appeared unbothered and was talking normally. Jirapatch explained that she usually uses a truck for errands, and her child had previously been trapped in that vehicle but was safely rescued. On this occasion, they were in Chon Buri to settle a bill and stopped briefly at the petrol station to use the restroom. Upon returning, they discovered that the car, an electric vehicle, had locked automatically, and they were unable to open the doors. “I want to remind everyone that if you stop at a petrol station to use the restroom, you should take your child with you or take turns staying with them. Do not leave your child alone in the car,” Jirapatch advised. Police and safety experts warn against leaving children in cars, emphasising the unpredictability of circumstances and the quick escalation of danger. In this case, the prompt response of the rescue team ensured a safe outcome, but not all such incidents have happy endings. -- 2024-06-28 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe