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A timely stroke of luck has befallen a widowed farmer in Nakhon Ratchasima as he won a staggering 12 million baht in the lottery, with plans to generously donate a boat to a local rowing club because of his grandchild’s national team success. Manat Samleeklang, a 58 year old widowed farmer, yesterday, April 16, experienced a life-changing moment when he learned he had won the first prize in the Thai National Lottery, securing a prize of 12 million baht (US$330,000) with two tickets bearing the number 943598. The fortunate event occurred in Ban Don Nam Sub, a rural community where Manat resides. His winning streak has attracted considerable attention from relatives and neighbours, who have flocked to his home to celebrate the win. Manat has led a modest life as a farmer and cattle herder since his wife passed away six years ago. He lives with his middle daughter, 36 year old Narirat Samleeklang. He has a routine of purchasing lottery tickets for each draw, selecting numbers that match the license plate of his beloved motorcycle, which this time proved to be his lucky charm. Initially seeking a ticket ending in 198, he settled for 598 when the exact number was unavailable, a decision that would later prove to be serendipitous. Upon discovering his win, Manat’s joy was immense, prompting him to record the event at the local police station for verification. Manat’s newfound wealth has outlined his intentions to settle debts, support his children’s futures, and contribute to his grandchildren’s educational needs. Additionally, he plans to make merit in memory of his late wife, reported KhaoSod. A significant portion of the windfall will go towards purchasing a boat for the rowing club of Ban Don Kheaw School in Amphoe Phimai. This gesture is close to his heart, as his grandchild is a member of the Thai national rowing team that won the Dragon Boat World Championship in its 16th edition, held from August 7 to August 13 last year. by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

UPDATE: Foreign man drowns while retrieving water gun in canal in Bangkok by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ สำนักข่าวราษฎร - Ratsadon News A foreign man drowned while reportedly retrieving his water gun in the Saen Saep Canal in Bangkok during the Songkran Festival on April 14. His nationality wasn’t specified. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1324997-foreign-tourist-drowns-trying-to-retrieve-water-gun-from-bangkok-canal/?do=findComment&comment=18848926

Foreign man drowns while retrieving water gun in canal in Bangkok by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ สำนักข่าวราษฎร - Ratsadon News A foreign man drowned while reportedly retrieving his water gun in the Saen Saep Canal in Bangkok during the Songkran Festival on April 14. His nationality wasn’t specified. Phayathai Police Station officers were notified about the drowning near Pratunam Pier in the Saen Saep Canal on the evening of April 14. Then, police officers rushed to the scene with volunteer divers from the Ruam Katanyu Foundation. The divers took a short time searching and managed to discover the dead body of the foreign man. His identity has not yet been confirmed. Thai PBS reported that the foreign man participated in water splashing with other foreigners and locals near the canal. He accidentally dropped his water gun in the canal and jumped in to retrieve it. However, he disappeared into the water, prompting a foreign witness to jump into the water to help him. The foreign witness was unable to find the victim and later reported the matter to Phayathai Police Station. A Thai man named Noi reported to the media that he was sitting and drinking alcohol with his friends near the scene. He met the foreign man before the incident, and the foreigner appeared intoxicated. Noi said he saw the foreign man fall off the stairs near the pier and went to help him up. He asked him to sit and rest on the stairs and returned to drink with his friends. Deputy Superintendent of Phayathai Police Station Chotpisit Narongsak reported that police also awaited the autopsy to identify the foreign man. Chotpisit suspected that the deceased might have been drunk and accidentally fell into the river. The pier was closed from April 13 to 16, and operations resumed today, April 17, after the long Songkran holiday. Further investigation into the cause of the drowning would be conducted. Another drowning reported during the water festival occurred yesterday, April 16, in the central province of Ratchaburi. A 14 year old Burmese boy named Tawanchai was having a water fight with his friends and went into the Chonlapratan Canal to clean himself. Tawanchai could not swim, so he opted to hold a rope tied to a wooden pole at the bank while cleaning his body. Unfortunately, the rope snapped, causing the boy to fall into the river and drown. Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Chiang Mai Zoo splashes 29 million baht on renovated aquarium by Mitch Connor Picture of children watching a giant sea turtle courtesy of Chiang Mai Zoo Chiang Mai Zoo proudly unveiled its renovated aquarium following a substantial financial investment of over 29 million baht. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325132-chiang-mai-zoo-splashes-29-million-baht-on-renovated-aquarium/

Chiang Mai Zoo proudly unveiled its renovated aquarium following a substantial financial investment of over 29 million baht. The refurbishment of this unique mountain-based aquarium, the first of its kind in Thailand, is projected to draw an increased number of visitors. Wuthichai Muangman, the zoo’s director, shared that Attapon Srihayrun, the director-general of the Zoological Park Organisation of Thailand (ZPO), granted this budget for 2023 to facilitate the aquarium’s makeover. The renovation was completed successfully and the aquarium doors were reopened to the public on the first day of April, Wuthichai confirmed. With a fresh theme focussed on environmental protection and earth preservation, the upgraded aquarium is anticipated to boost its income by 10% from entry fees, Attapon projected. The aquarium had been temporarily closed last year to facilitate the refurbishment work. “The renovated aquarium is expected to be a hit among tourists, given its unique proposition of bringing the sea to a mountain and its adherence to international standards. It also serves as an excellent educational hub for children and young visitors.” Attapon further highlighted the affordable entry fees when compared to other global aquariums, which typically charge a minimum of 1,000 baht per visitor. The Chiang Mai Zoo Aquarium’s admission fees are set at 300 baht for Thai adults, 175 baht for Thai children, 640 baht for foreign adults, and 375 baht for foreign children. Additionally, the ZPO plans to allocate an extra budget of one million baht to the aquarium for the acquisition of more marine species, Attapon revealed. Beyond being a tourist magnet and educational facility, the aquarium plays a crucial role as a research and conservation centre, Attapon pointed out. Narutat Chareonsedtasin, CEO of Marine Scape (Thailand), the company managing the Chiang Mai Zoo Aquarium, elaborated on the aquarium’s unique features. Boasting the longest underwater tunnel in the world, spanning 133 metres, the aquarium also exhibits the most diverse river fish species in Thailand. Over 80 species from the Mekong River Basin and Chao Phraya Basin are displayed here, reported Bangkok Post. The renovation work extended to improving the aquarium’s air conditioning, walkways, ventilation and the well-being of the marine animals, Chareonsedtasin added. by Mitch Connor Picture of children watching a giant sea turtle courtesy of Chiang Mai Zoo Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Nearly 100k return to Bangkok post-Songkran via public transport by Top Picture courtesy of BorKorSor The acting director and president of Transport Company Ltd made a public announcement yesterday, disclosing the substantial numbers of citizens returning to Bangkok after the Songkran festival. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325131-nearly-100k-return-to-bangkok-post-songkran-via-public-transport/

The acting director and president of Transport Company Ltd made a public announcement yesterday, disclosing the substantial numbers of citizens returning to Bangkok after the Songkran festival. Between April 15 and 17, passenger logs recorded more than 99,995 individuals making their round trips using public buses and vans. The total number of trips during this period exceeded 6,689. Atthawit Rakchamroon shared that, in line with the Ministry of Transport‘s policy, he had directed the station masters of the Transport Company across Thailand to ensure travellers’ comfort, convenience, safety, and convergence. To accommodate the increased demand for public transportation back to Bangkok, additional buses and vans were prepared. Prior to their deployment, all vehicles and drivers underwent thorough inspection, Atthawit added. In terms of the travel route, Atthawit stated that inbound buses from the Transport Company would first stop at the Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal. From there, they would proceed to the Bangkok Bus Terminal, their final destination. Both terminals serve as intermodal transportation hubs, connecting trains, MRT, BTS, and other outbound public transportation routes. Atthawit also noted that those planning to travel to Bangkok from April 22 to 24, have the option to buy E-tickets and avail of a special promotion of 20% off (excluding fees). For further details, individuals can contact the Transport Company call centre at 1490. Passenger safety “The Transport Company Ltd., is committed to ensuring the safety and convenience of our passengers, especially during peak travel times such as the Songkran Festival. We have increased our capacity and heightened our safety protocols to meet the surge in demand.” The Songkran festival, which marks the traditional Thai New Year, is one of the biggest holidays in Thailand. It is a time when many Thais return to their hometowns to celebrate with their families. The festival’s conclusion typically sees a large-scale movement of people returning to the capital, Bangkok, resulting in a significant increase in demand for public transportation services, reported Pattaya News. “Our dedicated team, from the station masters to the drivers, has worked tirelessly to ensure a smooth and comfortable journey for everyone. We appreciate the public’s cooperation and understanding during this time.” The Transport Company Ltd., under the supervision of the Ministry of Transport, is one of the main operators of intercity bus services in Thailand. It provides extensive coverage across the country, connecting major cities and provinces, and plays a crucial role in facilitating the mobility of people, especially during important festivals like Songkran, said Atthawit. “We will continue to strive for excellence in our services, prioritising the safety and comfort of our passengers. We are grateful for their trust and support, and we look forward to serving them on their future journeys.” by Top Picture courtesy of BorKorSor Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Liquor firms exploit music marketing to boost product visibility by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of Rad Season Stop-Drink Network Thailand has raised concerns about liquor corporations’ use of music marketing tactics to advertise their products. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325130-liquor-firms-exploit-music-marketing-to-boost-product-visibility/

Stop-Drink Network Thailand has raised concerns about liquor corporations’ use of music marketing tactics to advertise their products. Teera Watcharapranee, the network’s director, unveiled that a network survey revealed beverage enterprises leveraging music marketing to fuse artists and performers, conducting concerts to boost their product’s visibility, particularly across social media platforms. The investigation was carried out during the Songkran festival on April 13 and 14. Volunteers were dispatched to scrutinise the marketing efforts of three substantial alcoholic beverage producers. The events were hosted in and around leading shopping centres, restaurants, and nightlife hotspots. Many of these events were complimentary concerts, while others necessitated an attendance fee. Watcharapranee highlighted that these companies had adopted a brand-sharing approach, using identical brand names and logos for their alcoholic and non-alcoholic products, such as still water and soda water. This method is seen as a way to sidestep stringent alcohol advertising regulations. “This could contravene Section 32 of the Alcoholic Beverage Control Act, which oversees alcohol advertising.” Watcharapranee further revealed instances where concert tickets could be exchanged for free beer, and organisers failed to screen for underage attendees. Watcharapranee shared plans to report the findings to the government’s Road Safety Centre for further scrutiny. The data will also be sent to a House committee responsible for amending the Alcoholic Beverage Control Act. This ensures the revised law would implement measures to keep pace with the marketing strategies of liquor companies and mitigate indirect advertising of their alcoholic products, said Watcharapranee. “The law must be amended to control the sale of alcoholic beverages by major liquor companies.” Watcharapranee also suggested that the Public Health Ministry should shift its focus to tackling new marketing strategies by liquor companies rather than concentrating solely on drunk driving-related road accidents. Watcharapranee warned that new marketing campaigns are designed to entice new drinkers. Without any counter-action, the financial burden of medical bills and other related costs would fall on the Public Health Ministry, he concluded. by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of Rad Season Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Chinese woman stabs husband to death in alcohol-fueled quarrel Police in Bangkok's Khlong Tan district responded to a report of a domestic altercation involving a knife at a residence on Soi Phattanakan 38. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325118-chinese-woman-stabs-husband-to-death-in-alcohol-fueled-quarrel/

Thai woman found murdered in Bangkok hotel, Indian guest prime suspect On April 16, 2567, the Police Investigation Unit of Talat Phlu Market received a report of a homicide in room 210 of a five-story hotel located on Soi Wutthakat 14, Talat Phlu District, Thonburi, Bangkok, reported Siam Rath. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325117-thai-woman-found-murdered-in-bangkok-hotel-indian-guest-prime-suspect/

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Wednesday 17 April 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325126-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-wednesday-17-april-2024/

Prime minister Tavasin yesterday denied discussing a cabinet re shuffle with Taksin Shinawat, however added that he would reshuffle his Cabinet in the near future. Srettha said he talked about general issues with Thaksin but claims he did not discuss politics. A fire broke out on a sightseeing boat on the Chao Phraya River in Ayutthaya yesterday, the boat was carrying 24 tourists, including five children. Crews from two other boats managed to transfer passengers to their vessels and take them ashore. The owner said the boat had safety equipment, including lifejackets, and the engine was regularly serviced. The cause of the blaze is being investigated. The Stop-Drink Network Thailand has issued a warning against liquor firms using music to advertise their products. The networks director said a survey revealed how companies use concerts to promote products, and shared the same logos to promote non alcoholic products such as water and beer. Promoters also offered free beer with tickets and neglected to check for underage teens. Its recommendations will be submitted to the government ahead of it’s revision of the alcoholic beverage control act. The minister for sports and tourism announced: More than 10 million tourists visited Thailand so far this year, which generated more than 500 billion baht. The majority were Chinese nationals followed by Malaysian, Russian, South Korea and over 500 thousand from India. Thailand hopes to attract around 40 million international visitors this year. Around the region Malaysia The suspect who shot and injured his wife at Kuala Lumpur Airport last sunday has been captured at a hospital, he is believed to have tried escaping north and over the border, police say he had Saudi currency, and Thai baht with him when he was arrested and was a frequent visitor to both those countries. Investigations continue. WEATHER Chiang Mai and the north: sunny 40 C Bangkok: Sunny 37C Pattaya: Sunny 34C Phuket and the south: Sunny, partly cloudy 33C Hua Hin: Sunny, light cloud 35 AQI yellow, moderate Green clear, yellow moderate, Orange High, Red unhealthy. Credits: Bangkok Post, The Nation, Asean Now, Khaosod English, Hua Hin Today, Royal Coast Review, Kulsawek Sawekwannakorn, Thainewsroom.com, 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 2024-04-17 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Massive Success: Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2024 Draws 784,000 Participants, Generates 2.8 Billion Baht Economy Boost By Kittisak Phalaharn Bangkok—On April 16th, 2024, Mr. Chai Watcharong, the Thai Government spokesman, publicly revealed details of a successful “Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2024” event from April 11th to the 15th, at Ratchadamnoen Klang Road and Sanam Luang, Bangkok. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325121-massive-success-maha-songkran-world-water-festival-2024-draws-784000-participants/

Bangkok—On April 16th, 2024, Mr. Chai Watcharong, the Thai Government spokesman, publicly revealed details of a successful “Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2024” event from April 11th to the 15th, at Ratchadamnoen Klang Road and Sanam Luang, Bangkok. According to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) statistics, 784,883 individuals including 693,288 Thais and 91,595 foreigners participated in the events which generated more than 2.8 billion baht for the Thai economy. Moreover, most Thai and foreign tourists were delighted with the “Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2024” event, according to TAT’s survey. By Kittisak Phalaharn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-04-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Pattaya’s Newest Beachfront Market Prepares for Splashy Debut By Aim Tanakorn Pattaya —The brand new Pattaya beachfront market, Chang Beach Street Food, is throwing a splashy Songkran party to celebrate its grand opening! Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325119-pattaya’s-newest-beachfront-market-prepares-for-splashy-debut/

Pattaya —The brand new Pattaya beachfront market, Chang Beach Street Food, is throwing a splashy Songkran party to celebrate its grand opening! Chang Beach Street Food is a new Thai-styled market in the vibrant city of Pattaya, offering over 200 shop booths overflowing with delicious food and unique finds. The market is situated near Pattaya Soi 6, and it is open everyday from 4:00 PM to midnight, with ample parking to ease your visit. Do you know what is exciting? the market is currently inviting everyone to capture some fun memories with giant, colorful balloons that are scattered around the market for spectacle photo ops. But the excitement doesn’t stop there! From April 17th to 19th, the market will also host a special three-day event called “STAR WATER Songkran Party” to celebrate its grand opening. By Aim Tanakorn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-04-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Police in Bangkok's Khlong Tan district responded to a report of a domestic altercation involving a knife at a residence on Soi Phattanakan 38. Upon arrival, police found the woman, who claimed she was employed by the homeowner for weekly cleaning. However, during her commute to work, she discovered a gruesome scene, reported Siam Rath. The victim, identified as Mr. Hueng, a 42-year-old Chinese national, had succumbed to his injuries in hospital. Picture: Siam Rath Investigations revealed that his wife, Tong, also Chinese and aged 39, allegedly stabbed him in the chest during an argument fueled by alcohol. Tong claimed self-defense, stating that her husband had become aggressive. Police have charged her with homicide pending further legal proceedings. -- ASEAN NOW 2024-04-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

On April 16, 2567, the Police Investigation Unit of Talat Phlu Market received a report of a homicide in room 210 of a five-story hotel located on Soi Wutthakat 14, Talat Phlu District, Thonburi, Bangkok, reported Siam Rath. The team, led by Pol. Lt. Col. Nophasilp Pulswasdi, Deputy Commander of Police Division 8, Pol. Lt. Col. Pasapong Butrthai, Deputy Commander of Police Division 8, Pol. Lt. Col. Boonsongwit Hongsa, Deputy Commander of Police Division 8, Pol. Lt. Col. Chotchit Chuangrasmi, Chief of Investigation, and Pol. Lt. Col. Charin Buawpenhom, Investigator, rushed to the scene. The victim, identified as Ms. Sukanya, 51, was found dead with multiple stab wounds on her body, lying under a table in the hotel room. Preliminary investigations revealed that she had been staying in the room with an Indian male guest, who is now the prime suspect. Witnesses reported hearing a heated argument from the room before the incident. Picture: Siam Rath The victim's sister, who preferred not to be named, stated that she had no knowledge of her sister's activities until she learned of her death. She mentioned that her sister had been in a relationship with the Indian man, who often visited the room in the mornings and evenings. However, on the day of the incident, he left calmly after a phone call. According to the victim's son, Mr. Gomint, 20, his mother was secretive about her relationship with the suspect. She would leave for work in the morning and return late, often without disclosing her whereabouts. He suspected that the relationship might have been abusive. The suspect, identified as Mr. Yadav, 32, an Indian national, had fled the country previously but returned illegally. He was spotted renting a vehicle in Tha Maka District, Kanchanaburi Province, and was last seen heading towards Talat Phlu. Authorities are currently on high alert and are coordinating with Kanchanaburi police to apprehend him swiftly. Pol. Lt. Col. Nophasilp stated that efforts are underway to locate and arrest the suspect, with expectations of his capture within the day. TOP Picture: Siam Rath -- ASEAN NOW 2024-04-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Pattaya Teenager Flashes Two Guns During Songkran, Later Arrested By Aim Tanakorn Pattaya —A teenager was caught on camera brandishing two firearms at his rivals during a Songkran celebration in Pattaya on the evening of April 15th, 2024. The incident occurred just a few hundred meters from the Pattaya Police Station. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325115-pattaya-teenager-flashes-two-guns-during-songkran-later-arrested/

Pattaya —A teenager was caught on camera brandishing two firearms at his rivals during a Songkran celebration in Pattaya on the evening of April 15th, 2024. The incident occurred just a few hundred meters from the Pattaya Police Station. At around 10:06 PM, Pattaya police received a report from a concerned citizen who had captured video footage of the altercation. The video showed a group of teenagers engaged in a verbal dispute before one man, clad in a white shirt and long pants and having a black backpack, pulled out two unidentified firearms and pointed them at the other parties involved. The terrifying incident occurred on Soi Pattaya 7, shockingly less than 500 meters from the Pattaya Police Station. The gun flashing caused widespread panic among the numerous tourists enjoying the Songkran festival at the time. Pattaya police immediately inspected the soi, but no one was willing to provide concrete information to the authorities presumably out of fear of retaliation from the suspect. The police collected CCTV footage from nearby cameras which helped to identify the suspect. By Aim Tanakorn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-04-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Police to Enforce One-Way Traffic System During Wan Lai Naklua Festival on April 18th By Aim Tanakorn Naklua, Chonburi — The Banglamung Police Station announced plans to enforce a one-way traffic system to facilitate traffic flow in the Naklua area for the upcoming Wan Lai Naklua Festival on April 18th. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325114-police-to-enforce-one-way-traffic-system-during-wan-lai-naklua-festival-on-april-18/

Naklua, Chonburi — The Banglamung Police Station announced plans to enforce a one-way traffic system to facilitate traffic flow in the Naklua area for the upcoming Wan Lai Naklua Festival on April 18th. Under the plan, official water-playing areas and all types of vehicle lanes will be converted into a one-way system. The affected area will encompass Sukhumvit Road from the Sawangfa intersection to the Numchai intersection, Pattaya Naklua Road, Photisan Road, and back to Sukhumvit Road. The one-way system will be in effect from 12:00 PM to midnight on April 18th. However, between 9:00 PM and 10:00 PM, police will instruct the public and tourists to cease water-playing activities to allow for the orderly clearance of vehicles from the area. By Aim Tanakorn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-04-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Fire Breaks Out at Former Nightclub in Sattahip By Aim Tanakorn Sattahip, Chonburi — A fire broke out at a former nightclub in Sattahip, Chonburi, on April 15th, 2024. Nobody was injured. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325113-fire-breaks-out-at-former-nightclub-in-sattahip/

Sattahip, Chonburi — A fire broke out at a former nightclub in Sattahip, Chonburi, on April 15th, 2024. Nobody was injured. At around 7:40 PM, the Sattahip Sawang Rojanatham Rescue Foundation received a report of a fire at the former Vega entertainment venue located on Soi Sukhumvit 109, Sattahip district, Chonburi province. Upon receiving the report, rescue teams and five fire trucks rushed to the scene. Upon arrival, rescuers saw thick smoke billowing from the venue. They immediately entered the building and started to ventilate the smoke. However, there were no flames at the time of arrival. By Aim Tanakorn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-04-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe