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Monkey pox is on the rise after Songkran Monkey pox cases in Thailand have been rising since mid-April, with the number of confirmed cases reaching 787 since the infectious disease was first detected in Thailand in July 2022. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328559-monkey-pox-is-on-the-rise-after-songkran/

Monkey pox cases in Thailand have been rising since mid-April, with the number of confirmed cases reaching 787 since the infectious disease was first detected in Thailand in July 2022. The Department of Disease Control reported that.97% of the cases are in and around Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Rayong and Udon Thani, said the department’s spokesman, Dr Weerawat Manosuthi, on Wednesday. He asked members of the public to avoid having sex with strangers and sharing personal items with individuals who may be infected, noting that everyone can get infected if they engage in high risk behaviour. Full story: Thai PBS 2024-05-30 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Notorious Passport Forgery Ringleader Captured in Bangkok Picture courtesy: MGR online A notorious passport forgery mastermind, who had been evading capture for several months, was apprehended during a dramatic late-night raid in Bangkok's upscale Sathorn district. Known only as Chun, the fugitive had been wanted by Chinese authorities on charges including falsifying and using forged passports and had posed as a Surinamese national to avoid detection. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328547-notorious-passport-forgery-ringleader-captured-in-bangkok/

Picture courtesy: MGR online A notorious passport forgery mastermind, who had been evading capture for several months, was apprehended during a dramatic late-night raid in Bangkok's upscale Sathorn district. Known only as Chun, the fugitive had been wanted by Chinese authorities on charges including falsifying and using forged passports and had posed as a Surinamese national to avoid detection. Authorities revealed that the arrest operation took place at a condominium on Suan Phlu Road. Pol. Maj. Gen. Phanthana Nutchanart, Deputy Commissioner of the Immigration Bureau, confirmed the arrest and detailed the operation. Chun had been on the run ever since the Criminal Court issued an arrest warrant on April 17. Immigration Division 4 had been vigorously pursuing Chun, who was allegedly the lynchpin of an international passport forgery syndicate. Upon raiding the flat, investigators discovered several incriminating items, including a forged Taiwanese passport, driving licenses, a variety of bank passbooks, and multiple copies of passports. Initial claims of legitimate tenancy by Chun were quickly debunked when evidence linked him to a wider forgery network. Following thorough verification with Taiwanese authorities, it was confirmed that the passport Chun presented was indeed counterfeit. Further cooperation with Chinese officials verified Chun's true identity as a Chinese national and the suspected head of the forgery operation. In a related development, Thai authorities also detained three Syrian nationals on suspicions of using forged passports in Phuket. One suspect was apprehended at Phuket International Airport while attempting to leave the country with a fraudulent United Arab Emirates passport. Follow-up investigations led to the arrest of two additional suspects on the island. Additionally, three agency operators were detained for forging documents for visa applications to various embassies. Numerous counterfeit items were seized, and the suspects have confessed to their crimes, now facing legal proceedings. Authorities view these arrests as significant blows against the intricate networks of passport forgery and illegal immigration. More investigations are likely to follow, aiming to dismantle these dangerous operations comprehensively. -- 2024-05-30 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Manhunt Launched for Fugitive Brit Thought to be Hiding in Thailand Photo courtesy of North Yorkshire Police UK British Police have launched an international manhunt for a fugitive from Warrington, UK, who is believed to be hiding in Thailand. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328545-manhunt-launched-for-fugitive-brit-thought-to-be-hiding-in-thailand/

Photo courtesy of North Yorkshire Police UK British Police have launched an international manhunt for a fugitive from Warrington, UK, who is believed to be hiding in Thailand. Luke Atkin, a 36-year-old from Lower Walton, failed to appear in court on serious drug charges and is now on the run. Atkin was charged with conspiracy to supply cocaine but did not attend his trial at Bradford Crown Court. Last week, he was found guilty in absentia, leading the authorities to issue an immediate warrant for his arrest. North Yorkshire Police suspect Atkin has fled the country and may be hiding in Thailand. The awareness of his potential location emerged from various sources, warranting an urgent public appeal for any information regarding his whereabouts. A police spokesperson issued a statement urging public cooperation. “Luke Atkin is wanted by the courts. Do you know where he is? We are appealing to anyone who has seen him or knows where he is now to contact us. It's believed that he has travelled abroad and could be in Thailand. We urge anyone with information to call us on 101 and reference incident number 12240074511. Alternatively, you can pass information anonymously to Crimestoppers online or by calling 0800 555 111." Atkin's case has captured public attention due to the severity of the charges and his daring escape. Authorities believe public assistance could be crucial in locating him. -- 2024-05-30 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Pattaya Seeks to Transform Image, Promoting Diverse Tourism File photo. Courtesy: Pxhere The private tourism sector in Pattaya convened a workshop yesterday to discuss strategies for repositioning the city as a comprehensive travel destination, aiming to shift its reputation beyond just a nightlife and entertainment hub. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328539-pattaya-seeks-to-transform-image-promoting-diverse-tourism/

The private tourism sector in Pattaya convened a workshop yesterday to discuss strategies for repositioning the city as a comprehensive travel destination, aiming to shift its reputation beyond just a nightlife and entertainment hub. Representatives from eight tourism associations, four tourism clubs, and major tour operators within Pattaya City and Chon Buri province attended the event. Government officials from the Chon Buri Provincial Tourism and Sports Administration, Chon Buri Provincial Administrative Organisation, Pattaya City, Pattaya Municipality, and U-Tapao Airport were also present. Thanet Suphasahasrangsi, President of the Chon Buri Tourism Federation, highlighted that Pattaya has undergone a significant transformation, now offering various attractions suitable for all types of visitors, including families. The city boasts numerous sports facilities, such as over 20 world-class golf courses within a 30-kilometre radius. Additionally, Pattaya is home to upscale shopping malls, spas, and international restaurants. However, Thanet noted that the city’s public image remains largely associated with its nightlife and entertainment scene. To address this issue, Thanet organised a workshop to devise new marketing strategies aimed at promoting Pattaya’s diverse tourism offerings. Participants focused on highlighting the charms of small towns and traditional Thai life in areas such as Sri Racha, Bang Saen, and Phanat Nikhom. The goal is to showcase that Pattaya has much more to offer beyond its nightlife. Tourism officials emphasised the importance of encouraging visitors to explore other activities besides nightlife. They suggested that visiting temples and religious attractions, beaches, islands, traditional Thai cultural attractions, floating and traditional markets, and experiencing traditional Thai music and shows can be equally rewarding. They stressed that learning about Thai culture, language, and life should be prioritised over nightlife. “Ideas gathered from the workshop will be shared with government agencies so that travellers will hopefully recognise Pattaya for more than just its nightlife scene,” Thanet concluded. File photo. Courtesy: Pxhere -- 2024-05-30 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Airways Partners with Airbus to Upgrade A320s with Reclining Seats Picture courtesy: Wikipedia In a significant move towards enhancing passenger comfort, Thai Airways International Public Company Limited (THAI) has announced a partnership with Airbus to retrofit its fleet of 20 A320ceo aircraft with premium reclining business class seats. This marks Airbus’ first cabin retrofit for a single-aisle fleet in the Asia-Pacific region. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328536-thai-airways-partners-with-airbus-to-upgrade-a320s-with-reclining-seats/

In a significant move towards enhancing passenger comfort, Thai Airways International Public Company Limited (THAI) has announced a partnership with Airbus to retrofit its fleet of 20 A320ceo aircraft with premium reclining business class seats. This marks Airbus’ first cabin retrofit for a single-aisle fleet in the Asia-Pacific region. Thai Airways' fleet enhancement follows the recent integration of its former subsidiary, Thai Smile Airways, into the parent company earlier this year. Under the new agreement, Airbus Services will install 12 business class seats on each A320ceo, equipped with backrests reclinable up to 8 inches. The retrofitting work is scheduled to commence by the end of this year. Once complete, the A320s will sport a two-class configuration, featuring 12 business class and 144 economy seats. This represents a significant upgrade from the previous all-economy setup, which seated between 168 and 174 passengers. As of April, THAI operates an extensive Airbus fleet, including 20 A320s, three A330-300s, and 20 A350-900s. Chai Eamsiri, THAI's Chief Executive Officer, stated that the acquisition of the A320 aircraft from THAI Smile Airways has strengthened THAI's route network, improved fleet efficiency, and enhanced market competitiveness. "These aircraft will serve THAI’s domestic and regional operations, aiming to provide seamless and convenient flight connectivity. The retrofit of reclining business seats will offer passengers greater comfort, elevating their travel experience," Eamsiri commented. The Senior Vice President of Customer Services at Airbus, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership. "This agreement underscores our commitment to enhancing passenger comfort and delivering exceptional travel experiences," she noted. "We look forward to seeing these upgraded A320ceo aircraft take to the skies, offering passengers unparalleled comfort with the new reclining business class seats." Picture courtesy: Wikipedia -- 2024-05-30 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Thursday 30 May 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328534-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-thursday-30-may-2024/

A suspected leader of a passport forgery gang was arrested in Bangkok after fleeing to Thailand. Thai authorities had issued an arrest warrant in April, He falsely claimed African Surinamese nationality, but authorities discovered he was Chinese. He led a gang that forged passports and helped people enter countries illegally, before arriving in Thailand. The Education Ministry plans to ask for a 15-billion-baht budget to provide electronic devices, including iPads, tablets and laptops, for 600,000 students and teachers, specifics have yet to be finaslised but schools could receive the equipment early next year. Some 300 companies from the Asia-Pacific region gathered in Hong Kong to discuss the global economic situation, trade, and investment. The event was attended by prime minister Srettha Thavasin who gave a speech where he presented the government's economic policies and his vision for Thailand's future. The government has approved measures to protect the environment along the Andaman coastal region at Phangnga, Krabi and Ranong. Measures will aim to prevent pollution, place a limit on the height of new buildings and prohibit activities such as snorkeling and diving that may harm the natural eco systems. Around the region: North Korea fired what appeared to be about 10 short-range ballistic missiles off its east coast, The Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said North Korea had launched a ballistic missile that apparently landed outside Japan's exclusive economic zone. The suspected missiles were fired from near its capital Pyongyang yesterday and flew about 350 km before plunging into the sea, Todays’ WEATHER Chiang Mai and the north: Sunny partly cloudy 37C degrees celsius Bangkok: Cloudy with thundershowers 35 Pattaya: Bright but Cloudy with showers 33. Phuket and the south: Sunny becoming cloudy, 33. Hua Hin: fine and sunny morning, becoming cloudy this afternoon with a good chance of rain 35C 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 2024-05-30 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

British Tourists Involved in Soi 6 Brawl With Guards Found, File Formal Legal Complaint By Adam Judd Pattaya, Thailand – In a viral incident that has made international headlines and drove significant speculation and discussion online, a group of independent contracted guards brutally assaulted British tourists after a furious dispute over a bill on the bustling Soi 6 Pattaya over the past weekend. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328533-british-tourists-involved-in-soi-6-brawl-with-guards-found-file-formal-legal-complaint/

Pattaya, Thailand – In a viral incident that has made international headlines and drove significant speculation and discussion online, a group of independent contracted guards brutally assaulted British tourists after a furious dispute over a bill on the bustling Soi 6 Pattaya over the past weekend. The attack raised serious concerns about safety and tarnished the family friendly image of the popular tourist destination, according to Pattaya Police. In the early evening of May 24th, 2024, a confrontation erupted between foreign tourists and a group of contracted security guards overseeing independent local bars on Soi Six as we reported here. The altercation, which began as a dispute over a bill in a bar in which the victims appear to become aggressive and confrontational with bar staff and security, even with one foreign man shoving another customer out of the bar at one point who appeared to be trying to calm the situation down, escalated into physical violence, leaving the victims battered and bruised. The incident was captured on video, sparking outrage and condemnation. The video will not be shared in this article as it may offend sensitive viewers. In particular, footage of one guard violently kicking a tourist in the head while already lying on the ground having been beaten, caused outrage and made headlines across the globe. The guard claimed the victim attacked him first, breaking his nose on the street, which started the fight. Some speculated that the man was seriously injured, in a coma, or deceased, but none of that was correct as the victim told Pattaya Police today he had managed to walk away mostly uninjured from the incident and return to his hotel. In fact, the man involved said he even went back out drinking the same night on Walking Street. Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-05-30 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Pattaya Begins 3.1 Billion-Baht Underground Power Line Project Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Pattaya's mayor, Mr Poramase Ngampiches, has announced significant progress on a major infrastructure project aimed at relocating the city's power lines underground. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328532-pattaya-begins-31-billion-baht-underground-power-line-project/

Pattaya's mayor, Mr Poramase Ngampiches, has announced significant progress on a major infrastructure project aimed at relocating the city's power lines underground. With a whopping budget of 3.1 billion baht, the project is set to improve the city's aesthetics and resident safety. The initiative involves burying power lines, moving high-voltage overhead lines underground, reordering power cables, and laying down communication infrastructure. The work spans nine crucial routes, covering a total of 20 kilometres within Pattaya. Selected as one of the four pilot cities by the Thai Cabinet back in 2017, Pattaya aims to relocate its overhead wires to enhance the city's image and improve the quality of life for its residents. This ambitious undertaking is being rolled out in three phases, targeting several key areas. The designated routes include Pattaya North Road, Pattaya Central Road, Sukhumvit Road, Pattaya One Road, Pattaya Second Road, Pattaya Third Road, Soi Buakhao, and two sections of Pattaya South Road. These locations have been identified due to their high visibility and importance to the city's infrastructure. Mr Poramase highlighted that the project would not only provide a more visually appealing skyline but also reduce the risks associated with overhead lines, such as weather-related damage and electrical hazards. The improved infrastructure is expected to support future technological advancements and smart city initiatives, giving Pattaya a competitive edge. Once completed, Pattaya is set to shine brighter—both literally and figuratively—offering residents and visitors a safer, more modern environment. The success of this project could pave the way for similar initiatives in other Thai cities, showcasing how thoughtful urban planning can uplift entire communities. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-05-30 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Court Dismisses Petition Against Pheu Thai's Alleged Thaksin Influence FILE - Thailand's former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, arrives at Don Muang airport in Bangkok, Thailand, Tuesday, Aug. 22, 2023. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit, File) The Constitutional Court in Bangkok has dismissed a high-profile petition accusing the Pheu Thai party of being unduly influenced by Thailand's former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. The petition also scrutinised the party's digital wallet scheme, used during its election campaign, alleging violations of Section 49 of the Constitution. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328529-court-dismisses-petition-against-pheu-thais-alleged-thaksin-influence/

FILE - Thailand's former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, arrives at Don Muang airport in Bangkok, Thailand, Tuesday, Aug. 22, 2023. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit, File) The Constitutional Court in Bangkok has dismissed a high-profile petition accusing the Pheu Thai party of being unduly influenced by Thailand's former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. The petition also scrutinised the party's digital wallet scheme, used during its election campaign, alleging violations of Section 49 of the Constitution. Filed by Decha Chairat, the petition claimed that Thaksin, although currently paroled, was improperly dominating the activities of the Pheu Thai party. It further accused Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin of withholding crucial information about the qualifications of Phichit Chuenban when he was appointed as a minister, suggesting he was unqualified. Thaksin, who has remained a polarising figure in Thai politics, is believed by some to be pulling strings behind the scenes. In a unanimous decision, the court declared there was insufficient evidence to support the claims. It ruled that the Pheu Thai party had not exercised its rights or liberties in a way that threatened the constitutional monarchy, a fundamental stipulation under Section 49. Additionally, the court rejected another petition filed by Thoranut Munsri. This petition criticized the Election Commission for allegedly failing to perform its duties by permitting the Move Forward party to campaign on a policy proposing amendments to the controversial lèse-majesté law. The court dismissed this petition on the grounds that the petitioner did not clearly specify the desired court action. The decisions underscore the continuing tension in Thai politics, especially concerning the legacy and influence of Thaksin. While Pheu Thai has made strides in recent elections, allegations of undue influence from Thaksin continue to shadow the party. Today's rulings serve as a reminder of the intricate legal and political battles that continue to shape the landscape in Thailand. The focus now shifts back to governance and the policies that will steer the country forward amidst a backdrop of lingering political controversies. -- 2024-05-30 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Post-Match Brawl Erupts Between Foreign Fighters After Thai Boxing Showdown in Phuket By Goongnang Suksawat Patong, Phuket– A post-match fracas erupted at a Patong boxing stadium following a Thai boxing contest between competitors from Russia and Ireland. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328528-post-match-brawl-erupts-between-foreign-fighters-after-thai-boxing-showdown-in-phuket/

Patong, Phuket– A post-match fracas erupted at a Patong boxing stadium following a Thai boxing contest between competitors from Russia and Ireland. The incident, which originally took place on May 26th, gained rapid attention after viral footage circulated across various social media platforms. The disorder began shortly after an Irish boxer was declared the victor of a closely contested match, sparking confrontations between supporters of the Russian and Irish athletes. The skirmish escalated onto the boxing stage, where it continued until intervention by stadium security personnel and local law enforcement. In a statement to the Phuket Express, representatives from the Sports Authority of Thailand’s Phuket Office confirmed that the two boxers involved had reconciled with a handshake, bringing the official proceedings to a close. By Goongnang Suksawat Full story: THE PHUKET EXPRESS 2024-05-30 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

AirAsia soars to new heights: Asia’s best low-cost carrier for 2024 by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Aviation Source News AirAsia Group and its affiliates AirAsia X and Thai AirAsia X have been crowned Asia’s Top Low-Cost Carrier for 2024 by AirlineRatings.com at their prestigious Airline Excellence Awards. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328524-airasia-soars-to-new-heights-asia’s-best-low-cost-carrier-for-2024/

AirAsia Group and its affiliates AirAsia X and Thai AirAsia X have been crowned Asia’s Top Low-Cost Carrier for 2024 by AirlineRatings.com at their prestigious Airline Excellence Awards. This accolade marks a significant milestone in AirAsia’s storied journey. Launched in 2001 by visionary founders Datuk Kamarudin Meranun and Tony Fernandes with just two aircraft, the airline has soared to unimaginable heights. Over the past two decades, AirAsia has transformed from a small operation in Kuala Lumpur into a powerhouse of the Asian aviation industry. AirAsia’s meteoric rise is a testament to its resilience and innovation. The airline has successfully navigated a maze of regulatory hurdles, economic crises, and fierce competition, all while challenging policies that traditionally favoured national carriers. By democratising air travel, AirAsia has redefined the low-cost carrier landscape across the ASEAN region and beyond. Today, the AirAsia Group operates an impressive fleet of over 255 aircraft, connecting more than 165 destinations from its bases in Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Cambodia. Geoffrey Thomas, Editor-in-Chief of AirlineRatings.com, praised AirAsia’s leadership for their extraordinary achievements. “Tony Fernandes and his team, including Group CEO Bo Lingam and AirAsia X CEO Benyamin Ismail, have propelled these airlines to market dominance. “They’ve made travel accessible and affordable for nearly 800 million passengers, delivering exceptional value and a fantastic travel experience.” Reflecting on this recognition, Tony Fernandes, CEO of Capital A and Strategic Advisor to AirAsia Aviation Group, expressed his gratitude. “This award belongs to our airline CEOs, senior team members, and the countless ‘Allstars’ who’ve exceeded expectations. “We are committed to significant growth and expansion, offering more high-quality, low-cost travel options across the globe.” Bo Lingam reiterated this commitment, announcing the addition of over 400 new, state-of-the-art aircraft to meet rising travel demand, reported Aviation Source News. “Low cost doesn’t mean low service. We’re dedicated to providing greater value and choice, not just within Asia, but worldwide.” Benyamin Ismail, CEO of AirAsia X, echoed these sentiments, celebrating the team’s resilience and looking forward to the synergies between Capital A and AirAsia Aviation Group. “We’re not just surviving the pandemic’s aftermath; we’re coming back stronger.” by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Aviation Source News Source: The Thaiger 2024-05-30 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

5 year multiple entry DTA visa (Destination Thailand) from 2024-xx-xx Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) - Remote Workers/Digital Nomads/Freelancers - Participants of activities such as - Muay Thai courses - Thai cooking classes - Sport training - Medical treatment - Seminars - Music festivals etc. Period of stay: 180 days Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328520-5-year-multiple-entry-dta-visa-destination-thailand-from-2024-xx-xx/

Thailand Visa Exemption (60 days) and Visa On Arrival (VOA) (15 days) Valid from 2024-06-01: Visa Exemption (TR-60) Nationals of the following 93 countries and territories are entitled to visa exemption for the purpose of tourism and short-term business engagements, for a period not exceeding 60 days. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328518-thailand-visa-exemption-60-days-and-visa-on-arrival-voa-15-days/

Is Thailand set for another era of bureaucratic reform under Thaksin’s influence? Thailand’s bureaucracy has been frozen in time for over 20 years, with the last real reforms coming around 2002 under the government of Thaksin Shinawatra. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328521-is-thailand-set-for-another-era-of-bureaucratic-reform-under-thaksin’s-influence/