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Queen Silvia of Sweden Supports Children in Bangkok By Adam Judd Bangkok-A recent gala evening in Bangkok was dedicated to children who have difficult childhoods. Queen Silvia of Sweden, who founded “The World Childhood Foundation” decades ago, has helped raise over 60 million dollars worldwide. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327552-queen-silvia-of-sweden-supports-children-in-bangkok/

Bangkok-A recent gala evening in Bangkok was dedicated to children who have difficult childhoods. Queen Silvia of Sweden, who founded “The World Childhood Foundation” decades ago, has helped raise over 60 million dollars worldwide. In Bangkok, the event was organized in collaboration with the Thai organization “Safeguardkids,” which also contributes significant funds nationally. Over four million baht were donated during the evening, attended by only 70 guests including Dr. Darin Phanthusak, a prominent figure in this organization, is well-known in Pattaya and co-owns establishments such as Tiffany’s Theatre, Woodland Hotel, La Ferme, and La Baguette. Despite the festive atmosphere and Queen Silvia dancing to ABBA’s hit “Dancing Queen” (a song composed for her wedding), the evening’s serious purpose remained at the forefront for all attendees. By Adam Judd Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-05-18 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Assault Victim Seeks Justice in Bangkok Nightclub Attack Picture courtesy: Siam Rath A Thai man is seeking justice after being brutally assaulted by a thug outside a nightclub in Bangkok. His supposed "crime"? Protecting a female friend from harassment. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327549-assault-victim-seeks-justice-in-bangkok-nightclub-attack/

Picture courtesy: Siam Rath A Thai man is seeking justice after being brutally assaulted by a thug outside a nightclub in Bangkok. His supposed "crime"? Protecting a female friend from harassment. The 21-year-old victim, Prayut, sought help from the non-profit organisation Saimai Survive after his attacker, Parkphoom, remained unpunished for the violent incident that occurred on April 21. Prayut, who works part-time at the nightclub where the incident took place, recalled how Parkphoom had harassed a female friend that night. After closing time at 2:30 a.m., Parkphoom, apparently drunk, tried to persuade the woman to go home with him. When the woman refused, Parkphoom became aggressive and attempted to physically pull her away. Prayut intervened to protect his friend, but this only redirected Parkphoom’s anger towards him. Parkphoom began punching Prayut in the face until he collapsed, then continued to assault him even as he lay unconscious. Despite attempts by Prayut's girlfriend and the female friend to stop the attack, they were unsuccessful. An unidentified male witness in the area finally managed to intervene, causing Parkphoom to stop. The vicious attack left Prayut with serious injuries: a broken left jaw, a forehead wound, a cut on his nose, and neck bruising from being choked. Prayut lodged a complaint at Bang Yi Khan Police Station, where officers summoned Parkphoom for questioning. Though Parkphoom initially promised to cover Prayut's medical costs, he later managed to evade legal consequences. Prayut ended up having to pay over 100,000 baht for his medical treatment out of his own pocket. He stated that he had no prior knowledge of Parkphoom and had never had any conflict with him before the attack. The police confirmed they had issued legal charges against Parkphoom for causing severe injury and both mental and physical harm. While Parkphoom has acknowledged the charges, there is no information on whether he will fulfil his promise to cover Prayut's treatment costs. Picture courtesy: Siam Rath -- 2024-05-18 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Call for Caution on Potential Cannabis Recriminalisation Anutin Chanvirakul file photo courtesy: MCOT Concern is brewing around the potential reclassification of cannabis as a controlled narcotic substance. Deputy Government Spokesman Mr. Karom Phonphonklang, of the Bhumjaithai Party, highlighted the need for careful consideration on this issue. Legalised in 2022, cannabis has since impacted both the health and economic sectors significantly. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327548-call-for-caution-on-potential-cannabis-recriminalisation/

Concern is brewing around the potential reclassification of cannabis as a controlled narcotic substance. Deputy Government Spokesman Mr. Karom Phonphonklang, of the Bhumjaithai Party, highlighted the need for careful consideration on this issue. Legalised in 2022, cannabis has since impacted both the health and economic sectors significantly. Mr. Karom emphasised the importance of regulating cannabis properly, stressing its benefits when managed correctly. He called on the Ministry of Public Health to conduct a thorough evaluation of its impact since legalisation. He warned that a move to recriminalise cannabis would be detrimental, particularly for businesses heavily invested in the industry. Karom stated, “Cannabis has both medicinal and economic value. With careful management, it can do more good than harm.” Addressing potential conflicts within the coalition government, Mr. Karom noted that Thailand's Pheu Thai Party, holding the majority in parliament, would make the final decision. However, he assured that the Bhumjaithai Party “will not stay silent” on the matter. Deputy Prime Minister and Bhumjaithai Party Leader Anutin Chanvirakul echoed these concerns. He highlighted the devastating economic impacts that recriminalisation could bring, including job losses and business closures. He cautioned against making millions of cannabis users criminals overnight due to the policy reversal. Anutin Chanvirakul file photo courtesy: MCOT -- 2024-05-18 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Senators Petition Court to Consider Impeaching PM Srettha Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. Picture courtesy: Wikipedia Today, a significant political development unfolded as a group of 40 acting senators petitioned the Constitutional Court to consider impeaching Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327547-senators-petition-court-to-consider-impeaching-pm-srettha/

Today, a significant political development unfolded as a group of 40 acting senators petitioned the Constitutional Court to consider impeaching Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. The senators argue that Srettha has committed a severe ethical breach by appointing Pichit Chuenban as a minister attached to the Prime Minister's Office. The petition centres on Pichit Chuenban, a controversial figure with a tainted past. In 2008, Pichit, who had served as a lawyer for the then-deposed Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, was caught attempting to deliver a two-million-baht bribe hidden in food bags to Supreme Court officials. This led to his conviction and a six-month jail sentence. Furthermore, the Lawyers Council subsequently revoked his licence, tarnishing his professional reputation. The acting senators, who lodged the petition, believe that Srettha's decision to appoint Pichit as a minister is not only ethically questionable but also indicative of deeper issues within the administration. They argue that Srettha's actions undermine the integrity of the government and reflect poorly on his leadership. The senators are particularly concerned about the alleged influence of Thaksin Shinawatra, the convicted former Prime Minister, and his sister Yingluck Shinawatra, herself a deposed Prime Minister, on Srettha's decisions. The appointment of Pichit is seen by the senators as a move orchestrated by the Shinawatra siblings, raising questions about the independence and ethical standards of the current administration. They assert that Srettha, despite being the public face of the government, may be acting under the undue influence of these powerful political figures. The petition has sent ripples through the political landscape, sparking debates about the ethical standards expected of government officials and the broader implications of such appointments. Critics of the government argue that this move highlights systemic issues within the political structure and calls into question the legitimacy of Srettha’s leadership. Proponents of the impeachment argue that allowing Pichit to serve in the government sets a dangerous precedent, potentially normalising unethical behaviour at the highest levels of power. They believe that the Constitutional Court's intervention is necessary to uphold the principles of justice and integrity in governance. On the other hand, supporters of Prime Minister Srettha and his administration contend that the petition is politically motivated. They argue that the senators are leveraging historical grudges and controversies to destabilise a government that was fairly elected. These supporters maintain that the Prime Minister's actions, while controversial, do not warrant impeachment and that due process should be followed. As the Constitutional Court reviews the petition, the political climate remains tense. The court's decision could have far-reaching implications, not only for Prime Minister Srettha’s career but also for the broader political dynamics in the country. This unfolding situation is a reminder of the complex interplay between ethics, legality, and politics. It remains to be seen how the Constitutional Court will respond to the petition and what this means for the future of Srettha’s administration. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. Picture courtesy: Wikipedia -- 2024-05-18 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

to continue: Thailand Live Saturday 18 May 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1327546-thailand-live-saturday-18-may-2024/

Tourist Activities at Phuket's Cafe del Mar Disrupted by Taxi Conflict File photo for reference only. Taxi drivers near Cafe del Mar in Kamala, Phuket, have caused another disturbance affecting tourists. Kamala Police Station received a complaint about an incident that happened on Wednesday evening. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327533-tourist-activities-at-phukets-cafe-del-mar-disrupted-by-taxi-conflict/

Bangkok authorities crack down on vapes, raiding stores Image courtesy of Daily News Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya authorities cracked down on the sale of vapes near schools, seizing 1.6 million baht worth of products. Led by the Consumer Protection Committee, the operation aims to protect public health, particularly children, from the dangers of nicotine addiction. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327528-bangkok-authorities-crack-down-on-vapes-raiding-stores/

Electric scooters that can be rented through an app are now popping up in popular tourist spots in Pattaya. This has raised questions from locals about their legality and potential problems they could cause. Electric Scooter Rentals Surface in Pattaya, Prompting Legal Issues Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327518-electric-scooter-rentals-surface-in-pattaya-prompting-legal-issues/ File photo for reference only.

Chiang Mai police invoke 10pm curfew after samurai gang rampage by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ เชียงใหม่ CM108 ข่าวเชียงใหม่ จังหวัดเชียงใหม่ Chiang Mai Provincial Police officers imposed a 10pm curfew on locals under 18 years old following a deadly rampage by a criminal gang armed with samurai swords. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327494-chiang-mai-police-invoke-10pm-curfew-after-samurai-gang-rampage/

Chiang Mai Provincial Police officers imposed a 10pm curfew on locals under 18 years old following a deadly rampage by a criminal gang armed with samurai swords. The commander of the Provincial Police Region 5, Krittapon Yi-sakhon, revealed to the MumKhao news platform that a group of men, mostly teenage Burmese nationals, repeatedly caused chaos, committed theft, fatally attacked, and harassed both locals and tourists in Chiang Mai since January. Krittapon announced that officers had planned a crackdown, intending to visit each residence of the teenage members for questioning and to arrest those found guilty. In addition to these proactive operations, officers would also implement a 10pm curfew starting from May 3 onwards. Individuals under 18 years old are prohibited from leaving their residences without a parent or guardian after 10pm, both for their safety and to deter them from gathering to commit crimes. Locals in the area praised the police operation, expressing relief as repeated crimes had instilled fear. The gang’s random attacks, even targeting innocent people without provocation, had caused considerable concern among residents. One major incident occurred on May 1 when the samurai sword gang attacked and killed an innocent Thai man. The deceased’s friends recounted that the gang followed them while they were riding a motorcycle home in the early hours of that day. The gang then threw a ping pong bomb at their motorcycle, causing a friend to lose control of the vehicle. After the crash, the gang rushed to attack his friend with their samurai swords before fleeing the scene. The man’s friends insisted that they had never experienced any conflict with the gang or anyone else. The deceased’s mother affirmed that her son was a good person who had relocated to work in Chiang Mai’s city centre to support his siblings’ education. by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ เชียงใหม่ CM108 ข่าวเชียงใหม่ จังหวัดเชียงใหม่ Source: The Thaiger 2024-05-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Royal Thai Air Force Pilot Dodges Festival Rocket in Close Call Picture courtesy: Pilot Notebook Facebook Page A Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) pilot narrowly avoided a disaster after an unexpected encounter with a festival rocket launched during a local celebration. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327480-royal-thai-air-force-pilot-dodges-festival-rocket-in-close-call/

A Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) pilot narrowly avoided a disaster after an unexpected encounter with a festival rocket launched during a local celebration. The incident, shared on the Facebook page Unseen Records of Pilots, has raised public concerns over aviation safety. The pilot reported the encounter shortly after taking off from Ubon Ratchathani Airport. As he ascended through 5,000 feet (1,500 metres), the pilot spotted a rocket-like object falling from the sky, trailing smoke behind it. Realising it was a traditional Isaan rocket, often launched during local festivals, he promptly alerted air traffic control to warn other aircraft in the area. These traditional rockets are typically launched without proper authorisation, posing serious risks to aviation. The pilot’s account highlighted the immediate need for better regulation and awareness of such practices. "Besides the northern sky lanterns, the northeastern region also has rockets that pose a significant threat to aviation," the pilot remarked. The post detailed the pilot’s evasive actions and the quick communication with air traffic control, which further alerted a following RTAF aircraft. Both pilots had to carefully manoeuvre to avoid the rocket, which reached an altitude dangerous to commercial and military flights. The situation was exacerbated by the sudden appearance of the rocket, emphasising the need for timely notices to pilots. Pre-flight NOTAM (Notice to Airmen) briefings, indicating rocket launches in the northeastern provinces, allowed the pilot to recognise the danger and take appropriate measures. The pilot’s swift response and communication were critical in preventing a potential mid-air collision. Photos attached to the social media post illustrated the rocket's smoke trail and the contrail of a high-altitude aircraft. Despite the images making the rocket appear distant, the pilot clarified that it was actually within 200-300 metres of his aircraft—a perilously close distance. The pilot called for greater compliance with safety regulations to ensure such traditional practices do not endanger public safety. "I understand it’s a tradition, but we must consider public safety and follow regulations. It’s not about blaming any group; it’s about preventing accidents. Imagine if your loved ones were on a flight affected by such an incident.” Picture courtesy: Pilot Notebook Facebook Page -- 2024-05-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Bangkok’s electrifying plan to bury cables sparks into life by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Darren Lyons Bangkok citizens may have scoffed last year when the Metropolitan Electricity Authority (MEA) declared its grand plan to bury 1,454 kilometres of electrical cables underground over the next decade. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327477-bangkok’s-electrifying-plan-to-bury-cables-sparks-into-life/

Picture courtesy of Darren Lyons Bangkok citizens may have scoffed last year when the Metropolitan Electricity Authority (MEA) declared its grand plan to bury 1,454 kilometres of electrical cables underground over the next decade. It seemed like a shocking revelation but the sparks of doubt soon flickered away as the city geared up for the electrifying endeavour. This initiative was further illuminated by the newly elected Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt, who sparked renewed enthusiasm when he took office two years ago. The 57 year old city chief conductor unveiled a plan in June 2022 to zap away the eyesore cables that had cluttered Bangkok’s skyline since 1984. And it seems the current was flowing in the right direction, with city operatives this week buzzing around to remove cables along the length of Asok Montri Road, also known as Sukhumvit 21. Chadchart illuminated his two-part plan to shock the city into action: to complete the 40 year old project of untangling the city’s messy power cables, replacing them with fresh strands, and burying them beneath the ground. While he didn’t plug in a specific timeframe for completion, he did acknowledge that a shocking number of the tangled electrical cables dangling around the streets were no longer in use and could be disconnected. During a Cabinet meeting on May 17, 2022, sparks flew as the MEA’s project to plunge power and communication wires underground in Bangkok, Nonthaburi, and Samut Prakarn was unveiled. This project, which began its circuit in 1984, had only managed to electrify 55.7 kilometres of cables out of its targeted 236 kilometres. MEA Governor Wilas Chaloeysat, however, lit up the room as he outlined the project’s objectives, not merely aiming to improve the convenience of electricity distribution but also to amp up the efficiency of the system. This electrifying approach would implement smart technology to power up the management of the infrastructure, all part of the overarching concept of smart metro grids and smart meters, said Wilas. Picture courtesy of Darren Lyons “As of now, we’ve already rerouted 91 kilometres of electrical wires beneath the city’s surface. We’re gearing up to extend the reach of this project by a further 236.1 kilometres by 2027, with the total length of the wiring to be moved underground amounting to around 1,454 kilometres.” This plan would also see a surge in the number of smart meters from 33,265 to a staggering 441,400 sets by 2027. This smart meter system would enable MEA staff to detect and zap system issues promptly, helping to address problems even before they cause a power outage, Wilas confirmed. “We’re sparking big changes for the city’s residents to make life more convenient. We’re following our principle of ‘Go Smart, Go Digital, and Go Green’ for a sustainably charged future.” It’s hoped the plan will recharge and re-energise the city. Time will tell. Picture courtesy of Darren Lyons Picture courtesy of Darren Lyons Picture courtesy of Darren Lyons by Bob Scott TOP Picture courtesy of Darren Lyons Source: The Thaiger 2024-05-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

UPDATE: Govt Confirms Death of Two Thai Hostages in Gaza BANGKOK, May 17 (TNA) – The Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs has confirmed the deaths of two Thai nationals who were being held hostage in Gaza. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327460-two-thais-confirmed-dead-in-october-7-hamas-attack/?do=findComment&comment=18921184

Govt Confirms Death of Two Thai Hostages in Gaza BANGKOK, May 17 (TNA) – The Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs has confirmed the deaths of two Thai nationals who were being held hostage in Gaza. The announcement follows an investigation by the Israeli government's Committee for Assessing the Conditions of the Hostages. The committee concluded that Mr. Sonthaya Oakkharasri and Mr. Sudthisak Rinthalak died in October 2023. The Thai government expressed its deepest condolences to the families of the deceased. The Thai embassy in Tel Aviv has already contacted the families and will provide them with all necessary assistance. Full story: TNA-MCOT 2024-05-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Three Thai Nationals Sentenced to Life Imprisonment in Cambodia for Drug Trafficking Picture courtesy: Kampuchea Thmey Three Thai nationals have been sentenced to life imprisonment and fined 80 million Riel (approximately Bt723,000) by the Phnom Penh Municipal Court for drug possession and trafficking. This judgment concluded a high-profile case involving a sizeable drug bust. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327475-three-thai-nationals-sentenced-to-life-imprisonment-in-cambodia-for-drug-trafficking/

Three Thai nationals have been sentenced to life imprisonment and fined 80 million Riel (approximately Bt723,000) by the Phnom Penh Municipal Court for drug possession and trafficking. This judgment concluded a high-profile case involving a sizeable drug bust. Phanthep Vithya, 44, Kroeungsak Maklikun, 35, and Narongrith Chakroeunsuk, 26, were apprehended on August 31, 2022, in Phnom Penh. Authorities found nearly 42 kilograms of ketamine and ecstasy concealed under a layer of flowers in the cargo beds of two pickup trucks. The arrest operation led to a shootout, resulting in the death of a fourth suspect, Sem Jam, 28. According to Lieutenant Colonel Nuon Sothearith, deputy chief of the municipal anti-drug unit, the arrests followed the authorities' discovery that the suspects were transporting drugs from Stung Treng province to Phnom Penh. The defendants attempted to evade inspection, speeding past a checkpoint and firing shots at the police. The trio was not only charged with drug possession, transport, and trafficking but also faced charges of unauthorised possession of weapons and money laundering. Confiscated items included four pistols, additional drug-related materials, and substantial assets such as two pickup trucks and three plots of land. This case underscores the Cambodian authorities' resolute stance against drug trafficking, reflecting the broader regional efforts to curb the flow of illegal narcotics. The life sentences handed down serve as a stark warning to those involved in the drug trade. Picture courtesy: Kampuchea Thmey -- 2024-05-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Brother Beaten to Death Over Garden Dispute in Bangkok Picture courtesy: Daily News A shocking case of sibling rivalry unfolded today after a garden dispute in Bangkok tragically escalated, leading to the older brother bludgeoning his younger sibling to death with a table leg. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327471-brother-beaten-to-death-over-garden-dispute-in-bangkok/

Brother Beaten to Death Over Garden Dispute in Bangkok Picture courtesy: Daily News A shocking case of sibling rivalry unfolded today after a garden dispute in Bangkok tragically escalated, leading to the older brother bludgeoning his younger sibling to death with a table leg. Earlier this morning, the Samre Police Department was alerted to a violent incident within a residential property in Khlong San District, Bangkok. Authorities, including Police Captain Jirannathin Klinniran, quickly arrived at the scene, accompanied by forensic experts and medical personnel from Siriraj Hospital. The incident stemmed from an argument between 74-year-old Wisut Chaipreedа and his younger brother Lek, aged 73. The altercation began over Lek’s habit of littering in their shared vegetable garden, which had resulted in damage to one of Wisut’s cherished plants. Upon arrival, police found Wisut covered in blood and suffering from knife wounds on his left arm, which he initially concealed. Further investigation revealed a blood-stained kitchen knife and a wooden table leg, approximately one foot long, believed to be the murder weapon. In a nearby well, officers discovered Lek’s lifeless body submerged in water about one metre deep. Despite their efforts to retrieve him, it was clear Lek had succumbed to his injuries from the brutal assault. During questioning, Wisut confessed to repeatedly striking his brother’s face and head with the wooden table leg before dragging him to the well. He cited deep-seated resentment due to Lek’s continual encroachment on his garden, despite multiple disputes. Wisut also detailed how, during one of their arguments, Lek had wounded him with a knife. He is now facing charges of intentional homicide and remains in police custody pending further investigation. -- 2024-05-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Elderly Som Tam Seller Arrested For Drug Dealing In Udon Thani Photo via Facebook/ งานสืบสวน สภ.กุมภวาปี An elderly woman was arrested in Udon Thani for switching from selling som tam to dealing drugs. The 63-year-old, previously known for her papaya salad, was caught with 54 methamphetamine tablets. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327470-elderly-som-tam-seller-arrested-for-drug-dealing-in-udon-thani/