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BOT Prepares 70 Billion Baht for New Year Revelry Cash Demand file photo The Bank of Thailand (BOT) is gearing up for New Year celebrations by allocating banknotes totalling 70 billion baht for citizen withdrawals across the nation. This move guarantees a steady cash flow to adequately support the anticipated public spending frenzy for the New Year 2026 festivities. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1382558-bot-prepares-70-billion-baht-for-new-year-revelry-cash-demand/

Crackdown on Dodgy Goods: Customs Targets Online Sales The Thai Customs Department is clamping down on the sale of non-certified products through online platforms. In a bid to tackle the flow of illegal or substandard goods, the department has signed agreements with online sales platforms. Director-General Phantong Loykulnanta announced this initiative should help reduce the availability of such items. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1382542-crackdown-on-dodgy-goods-customs-targets-online-sales/

Enhanced Thai Immigration Measures Rolled Out for Festive Travel Picture courtesy of Siam Rath In a coordinated effort, the Immigration Bureau and the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) are enhancing security measures to ensure the safety and well-being of tourists during the Christmas and New Year 2026 period. On December 22, 2025, key officials, including Pol. Lt. Gen. Panumas Boonlaksum and Mr. Tosapol Wannasuphaphol, oversaw the deployment of immigration officers at Suvarnabhumi Airport to facilitate smooth immigration procedures over the festive period. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1382540-enhanced-thai-immigration-measures-rolled-out-for-festive-travel/

to continue: Thailand Live Wednesday 24 December 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1382556-thailand-live-wednesday-24-december-2025/

Thailand Faces 40 Road Deaths Daily as Drunk Driving Persists Thailand's road crisis is making headlines as civil society groups highlight the grim reality of 40 fatalities daily and losses reaching 600 billion baht annually. These groups are advocating for tough measures against drunk drivers, including vehicle confiscation during the New Year 2026. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1382541-thailand-faces-40-road-deaths-daily-as-drunk-driving-persists/

Cambodia Urges Thailand to Hold Border Talks in Malaysia Thailand's Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow speaks during a news conference in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Monday, Dec. 22, 2025, after a special meeting of ASEAN foreign ministers to discuss an ongoing border conflict between Thailand and Cambodia. (AP photo/Azneal Ishak) Cambodia has requested that Thailand move their border talks to Kuala Lumpur, after recent deadly clashes. The proposal comes after two weeks of intense fighting between the nations, resulting in significant casualties. Cambodia's Defence Ministry emphasised Malaysia's role as a neutral venue for discussions. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1382562-cambodia-urges-thailand-to-hold-border-talks-in-malaysia/

Thailand's Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow speaks during a news conference in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Monday, Dec. 22, 2025, after a special meeting of ASEAN foreign ministers to discuss an ongoing border conflict between Thailand and Cambodia. (AP photo/Azneal Ishak) Cambodia has requested that Thailand move their border talks to Kuala Lumpur, after recent deadly clashes. The proposal comes after two weeks of intense fighting between the nations, resulting in significant casualties. Cambodia's Defence Ministry emphasised Malaysia's role as a neutral venue for discussions. This month’s renewed violence broke a previous truce, leading to 23 deaths in Thailand and 21 in Cambodia, while displacing over 900,000 people. The two countries have faced increasing tensions along their border, prompting an urgent need for diplomacy. Sihasak Phuangketkeow, Thailand's Foreign Minister, initially announced that talks would take place in Thailand. Despite this announcement, Cambodia’s Defence Minister, Tea Seiha, proposed moving discussions to the Malaysian capital for security reasons. In a letter to Thailand’s Defence Minister, Nattaphon Narkphanit, Seiha stressed the ongoing border clashes as a primary reason for the venue change. Malaysia, as the current ASEAN chair, had already agreed to host the meeting. In parallel developments, Cambodia accused Thailand of conducting air strikes on its territory, fuelling the conflict. Fighting continued along the border, with Cambodian officials reporting shelling in the city of Poipet. Both nations acknowledge the pressing need for negotiation to prevent further escalation of hostilities. Looking ahead, ASEAN-mediated talks in Malaysia have the potential to stabilise the situation. Both countries’ willingness to engage in dialogue underlines the international community's efforts to address regional disputes. The situation remains delicate, and the forthcoming discussions will be closely monitored for potential resolutions, reported Thai Newsroom. Key Takeaways Cambodia and Thailand are encouraged to hold peace talks in Malaysia. Recent clashes have resulted in multiple casualties and displaced many. ASEAN plays a central role in mediating between the two countries. Related Stories: Thailand Ramps Up Border Talks with Cambodia to Ease Tensions Hun Manet Demands Urgent Border Talks After Soldier Killed Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai Newsroom 2025-12-23

Thai Marines Rescue Starved Lions and Bears at Border Casino Picture via Facebook: สรยุทธ สุทัศนะจินดา กรรมกรข่าว Thai marines have made a distressing discovery in Ban Tha Sen, Trat province, where they found lions and bears in appalling conditions at a Chinese-linked casino. Reports indicate that the animals, discovered in metal cages on December 22, had been starving for several days due to their lack of food and water. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1382559-thai-marines-rescue-starved-lions-and-bears-at-border-casino/

Picture via Facebook: สรยุทธ สุทัศนะจินดา กรรมกรข่าว Thai marines have made a distressing discovery in Ban Tha Sen, Trat province, where they found lions and bears in appalling conditions at a Chinese-linked casino. Reports indicate that the animals, discovered in metal cages on December 22, had been starving for several days due to their lack of food and water. On conducting a raid at the Thamoda casino area, the Royal Thai Marine forces exposed the shocking state of wildlife cruelty. The compound, located near the Thai-Cambodian border, was allegedly being used by Cambodian military personnel. Inside, marines discovered two lions and three bears suffering from severe malnutrition, confined and neglected for three to four days. A Chinese national associated with the local casino network is believed to be the suspected owner of the animals. Marines, cautious of the animals' aggressive response due to hunger, resorted to throwing food and water into the cages to temporarily address their horrific condition. The raid comes in the wake of recent violent clashes in the region, leading to speculation that the animals were abandoned amid the chaos. Military officers promptly contacted the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation to request their assistance in rescuing and relocating the animals. Today, December 23, officials plan to begin the extraction process once they confirm the surrounding area is safe from landmines. Given the substantial size of the cages, officials anticipate using heavy machinery to securely relocate the captive creatures, reported The Thaiger. Key Takeaways: Lions and bears were found starving in cages at a Trat casino. The owner, connected to a casino network, is suspected to be Chinese. Authorities are planning an urgent rescue operation today. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-12-23

BOT Prepares 70 Billion Baht for New Year Revelry Cash Demand file photo The Bank of Thailand (BOT) is gearing up for New Year celebrations by allocating banknotes totalling 70 billion baht for citizen withdrawals across the nation. This move guarantees a steady cash flow to adequately support the anticipated public spending frenzy for the New Year 2026 festivities. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1382558-bot-prepares-70-billion-baht-for-new-year-revelry-cash-demand/

file photo The Bank of Thailand (BOT) is gearing up for New Year celebrations by allocating banknotes totalling 70 billion baht for citizen withdrawals across the nation. This move guarantees a steady cash flow to adequately support the anticipated public spending frenzy for the New Year 2026 festivities. In a confident announcement, the BOT Assistant Governor for the Payment Infrastructure and Services Group highlighted that the allocated cash supply is expected to meet the country's demand during the festive season. Banks, under BOT’s direction, are well-prepared to facilitate public withdrawals through ATMs and branches from December 30, 2025, to January 4, 2026. Major commercial banks have declared their cash availability plans, outlining substantial reserves ready for festive withdrawals: Bangkok Bank: 40 billion baht Krungthai Bank (KTB): 37.95 billion baht Kasikornbank (KBank): 35 billion baht Siam Commercial Bank (SCB): 30.5 billion baht TMBThanachart Bank: 11 billion baht Bank of Ayudhya: 9.88 billion baht (available from December 25, 2025, to January 2, 2026) The proactive measures by BOT and commercial banks underscore their commitment to ensuring a seamless cash flow during the holiday peak. Such planning is expected to keep the nation’s economy buoyant, facilitating smooth transactions for consumers and retailers alike as the year-end countdown begins. Looking forward, the focus remains on maintaining ATM and branch efficiency to support the high transaction volumes. This financial groundwork supports consumer confidence and strengthens the festive spirit across Thailand as the nation enters the New Year, reported Thai PBS WORLD. Key Takeaways BOT has allocated 70 billion baht for New Year cash withdrawals nationally. Major banks have announced significant cash supplies for public access. Efforts aim to maintain a smooth cash flow during the festive period. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai PBS WORLD 2025-12-23

UPDATE Thai Woman Held in Taiwan Returns to Face Child Prostitution Case Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Authorities are preparing for the arrival of a Thai woman facing severe charges related to child prostitution. The 29-year-old, arrested in Taiwan, will be escorted back to Thailand on Tuesday, arriving at Suvarnabhumi Airport on Thai Airways flight TG633 at 5pm. She is accused of forcing her 12-year-old daughter into prostitution at a Tokyo massage parlour earlier this year. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1379836-tokyo-child-exploitation-case-mother-arrested/#findComment-20291591

UPDATE Thai Woman Held in Taiwan Returns to Face Child Prostitution Case Authorities are preparing for the arrival of a Thai woman facing severe charges related to child prostitution. The 29-year-old, arrested in Taiwan, will be escorted back to Thailand on Tuesday, arriving at Suvarnabhumi Airport on Thai Airways flight TG633 at 5pm. She is accused of forcing her 12-year-old daughter into prostitution at a Tokyo massage parlour earlier this year. An arrest warrant for the woman was issued last month amid allegations of procuring her minor child for prostitution and engaging in human trafficking. These charges carry potential penalties, including a prison term of up to 20 years and fines reaching 2 million Thai baht. The woman allegedly fled to Taiwan soon after compelling her daughter into the illegal work. The situation has prompted serious concerns among child protection agencies and law enforcement authorities. Experts in child welfare highlight the critical need for stricter measures to prevent such incidents and safeguard vulnerable children. The Thai authorities are pressured to handle the case with diligence and ensure justice for the young victim. Experts and officials are closely monitoring developments as the case progresses through the Thai judicial system. Authorities will likely take further steps to assist and protect the child involved, aiming to provide her with the necessary support and rehabilitation. The case serves as a wake-up call concerning ongoing challenges in human trafficking and child exploitation. Key Takeaways: A Thai woman is being returned from Taiwan to face charges of child prostitution. She allegedly forced her daughter to work in a Tokyo parlour and face up to 20 years in prison. The case highlights ongoing issues in child protection and the fight against human trafficking. Related story: Tokyo Police Arrest Man for Trafficking 12-Year-Old Thai Girl Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-12-23

Highway Horror: Man Shot Dead in Road Rage Rampage All pictures courtesy of Daily News A chilling crime on the Prascha Chuen expressway as a 34-year-old man was shot dead at the wheel in front of his girlfriend after a road rage incident on December 23. The attack occurred after a Toyota Alphard reportedly cut in line at a toll booth before ambushing the victim's car and firing multiple shots, leading to an immediate police hunt. Authorities are reviewing CCTV footage and working to trace the suspect’s vehicle. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1382549-highway-horror-man-shot-dead-in-road-rage-rampage/

All pictures courtesy of Daily News BANGKOK - A chilling crime on the Prascha Chuen expressway as a 34-year-old man was shot dead at the wheel in front of his girlfriend after a road rage incident on December 23. The attack occurred after a Toyota Alphard reportedly cut in line at a toll booth before ambushing the victim's car and firing multiple shots, leading to an immediate police hunt. Authorities are reviewing CCTV footage and working to trace the suspect’s vehicle. In the early hours, Police Lieutenant Colonel Noppadol Homsombat received reports of a shooting at the Si Rat Expressway toll booth entrance. Investigators found a Toyota Altis abandoned on the road, with Anuwat Yatniyom lifeless in the driver’s seat, his neck showing a gunshot wound. The victim’s girlfriend, Savitree, recounted how the incident unfolded as they approached home in Phetchakasem. Savitree detailed the terrifying sequence, where the white Toyota Alphard aggressively tried to cut in at the toll, prompting her boyfriend to slow down to avoid a collision. The altercation escalated after passing through the toll, with the Alphard waiting, then attacking on the Prascha Chuen bridge, firing four times before fleeing towards Mo Chit. Police have identified the suspect vehicle through CCTV and are coordinating efforts to track down the perpetrator swiftly. They emphasise the urgency of capturing those responsible in order to prevent further danger. The forensic teams continue to analyse evidence as the investigation intensifies. With public concern rising, this incident highlights ongoing issues of road safety and violence. Authorities urge anyone with information to come forward, underscoring their commitment to resolving the case efficiently. Key Takeaways A 34-year-old man was fatally shot in a road rage incident on December 23. The suspect's car, a white Toyota Alphard, was identified via CCTV. Police are actively searching for the gunman as investigations continue. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Daily News 2025-12-23

video screenshot In a bold move, Donald Trump announced plans for the U.S. Navy to construct a new line of 'Trump-class' warships, which he claims will be "100 times more powerful than any battleships ever built." The ships, part of a "Golden Fleet," are expected to replace the current Arleigh Burke-class destroyers, costing approximately 182 billion Thai baht each. The announcement, made while Trump holidayed in Palm Beach, Florida, includes plans for futuristic technology like directed energy lasers and railguns. This initiative marks a significant military escalation amid ongoing U.S. operations near Venezuela. While originally reported by The Wall Street Journal, the plan is perceived as a counter to China's influence, although Trump insists it targets "everybody." The 'Trump-class' also aligns with an aggressive American military presence in the Caribbean, where U.S. forces have been engaging in anti-drug operations involving small boats, leading to a controversial death toll exceeding 100. Expert opinions are mixed, with Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth and Navy Secretary John Phelan enthusiastically backing the plan. They have vowed to "make battleships great again," underscoring the aesthetic appeal and power of these new vessels. However, concerns arise over escalating tensions with Venezuela, as the U.S. continues to interdict and seize oil tankers linked to sanctioned organisations. Trump's ambiguity about whether to sell or add the seized oil to the U.S. Strategic Reserve exacerbates the uncertainty. Looking forward, the development of these formidable warships is likely to provoke responses from international players, notably China and Venezuela. The ambitious plan sets the stage for a modernised navy, reflecting a shift in U.S. naval strategy under Trump's guidance. The initiative, as emphasised during the president’s announcement, highlights his longstanding ambitions to revive U.S. battleship production. Key Takeaways: Trump launched plans for new 'Trump-class' warships, costing 182 billion Thai baht each. The move comes amid increased U.S. military operations near Venezuela. Experts and officials support the initiative, envisioning a more powerful naval fleet. Adapted by ASEAN Now from INDEPENDENT 2025-12-23

Medical Gear Scandal: Suspicion Surrounds 603 Million Baht Deal The Anti-Corruption Organisation of Thailand (ACT) has raised alarms over potential irregularities in the procurement of medical equipment by state hospitals, amounting to 603 million baht. Complaints have surfaced regarding the purchase of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) systems intended for neurological and psychiatric treatments. The e-bidding process conducted these deals for the 2026 fiscal year, revealing significant pricing discrepancies that prompted scrutiny. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1382543-medical-gear-scandal-suspicion-surrounds-603-million-baht-deal/

Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post The Anti-Corruption Organisation of Thailand (ACT) has raised alarms over potential irregularities in the procurement of medical equipment by state hospitals, amounting to 603 million baht. Complaints have surfaced regarding the purchase of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) systems intended for neurological and psychiatric treatments. The e-bidding process conducted these deals for the 2026 fiscal year, revealing significant pricing discrepancies that prompted scrutiny. ACT's investigation revealed that 27 hospitals initially announced intentions to buy TMS systems, with a set median price of 4.5 million baht per unit. While 12 hospitals proceeded with procurement plans, two opted out due to technical concerns. In most cases, winning bids closely matched the median price, except for Phrapokklao Hospital, which secured a notably lower contract at 1.95 million baht per unit. This substantial price variation has sparked questions about the authenticity of the median price, suggesting it may have been inflated beyond market norms. If proven, this could lead to a financial burden exceeding 340 million baht for the procured 134 units. Moreover, Khon Kaen Hospital cited discrepancies in its specifications and prioritised public interests by cancelling its procurement. Adding to this, Ramathibodi Hospital chose a different route by leasing a TMS system for five years at a cost of 3.64 million baht. On a related note, Sirindhorn Hospital acquired a peripheral nerve magnetic stimulation system for 750,000 baht, contrasting sharply with similar purchases by other public health hospitals in previous fiscal years, which reached up to 1.5 million baht, reported the Bangkok Post. Key Takeaways ACT highlights possible graft in medical equipment purchases for 603 million baht. Discrepancies in pricing and procurement processes raise red flags. Some hospitals cancel plans over technical concerns, opting for alternative solutions. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-12-23

Crackdown on Dodgy Goods: Customs Targets Online Sales The Thai Customs Department is clamping down on the sale of non-certified products through online platforms. In a bid to tackle the flow of illegal or substandard goods, the department has signed agreements with online sales platforms. Director-General Phantong Loykulnanta announced this initiative should help reduce the availability of such items. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1382542-crackdown-on-dodgy-goods-customs-targets-online-sales/

The Thai Customs Department is clamping down on the sale of non-certified products through online platforms. In a bid to tackle the flow of illegal or substandard goods, the department has signed agreements with online sales platforms. Director-General Phantong Loykulnanta announced this initiative should help reduce the availability of such items. The primary focus is on goods lacking standard certifications from bodies like the Thai Industrial Standards Institute and the Food and Drug Administration. The effort also targets prohibited items such as e-cigarettes. Phantong noted that finding uncertified products online will become increasingly difficult, citing that even searching for items like e-cigarettes might yield no results due to the crackdown. In Thailand, 23 agencies are authorised to issue a variety of product certifications. Starting January 1, 2026, imported goods with a low value will be subject to import duties and VAT. The previous fiscal year saw 160 million low-value items (under 1,500 Thai baht) imported, with 90% sold via online platforms. This new taxation policy could add 3 billion baht annually to government revenue. Import duties will vary by product, with clothing and footwear subject to a 30% duty and bags taxed at 20%. Phantong mentioned that the potential impact on consumers depends on whether platforms choose to pass on the tax or absorb it themselves. The initiative aims to create fairer competition for domestic businesses, which have long faced local tax obligations. Thamakorn Supathanarangsri from Lazada expressed that the company is not worried about the new tax and doesn’t foresee a decline in online sales. Price adjustments will likely hinge on promotional tactics by individual sellers, reported the Bangkok Post. Key Takeaways Thai Customs signs pacts with online platforms to curb illegal product sales. New tax rules on low-value items start on 1 January 2026, impacting online sales. Aim is to level the playing field for domestic businesses with fair competition. Related Stories: Thailand Integrates Online Sales into VAT System; New Measures Announced Thailand Targets Substandard Online Goods in Major Clean-Up Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-12-23

Thailand Faces 40 Road Deaths Daily as Drunk Driving Persists Thailand's road crisis is making headlines as civil society groups highlight the grim reality of 40 fatalities daily and losses reaching 600 billion baht annually. These groups are advocating for tough measures against drunk drivers, including vehicle confiscation during the New Year 2026. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1382541-thailand-faces-40-road-deaths-daily-as-drunk-driving-persists/

Thailand's road crisis is making headlines as civil society groups highlight the grim reality of 40 fatalities daily and losses reaching 600 billion baht annually. These groups are advocating for tough measures against drunk drivers, including vehicle confiscation during the New Year 2026. In the lead-up to the upcoming New Year festivities, civil society networks, including the Foundation Against Drunk Driving, are raising alarm over the surge in road deaths, particularly during the "seven dangerous days." On 22 December 2025, these networks presented a proposal to Mr. Ittiporn Kaewthip, the Attorney General, calling for vehicle confiscation from drunk drivers and tougher penalties for alcohol-related offences. They also demand stricter enforcement against those selling alcohol to minors and a push for legislative changes to increase legal repercussions for dangerous driving. Experts, including Mr. Surasit Silapngam, manager of the Foundation Against Drunk Driving, stress the urgency, citing an annual loss of 500-600 billion baht due to road accidents. Drunk driving is identified as the leading cause. Relaxed alcohol regulations that allow sales until late hours have heightened concerns, potentially increasing road risks. The government’s current stance on alcohol sales presents a challenge amidst efforts to improve road safety. In the future, civil society groups are prepared to back legal actions that treat drunk driving as a serious threat to public safety. They are also calling for widespread public awareness campaigns on the consequences of drunk driving and vehicle confiscation. Proposed amendments to the Traffic Act would impose more severe penalties for drunk driving causing death, ensuring offenders face prison time without probation. Collaborative efforts with both government and private sectors aim to radically reduce road traffic incidents related to alcohol, reported Siam Rath. Key Takeaways: Civil society groups press for severe measures against drunk drivers, seeking vehicle confiscation and harsher penalties. Relaxed alcohol laws may exacerbate road risks during high-traffic periods like the New Year. Advocacy for legal amendments and public awareness campaigns aims at long-term road safety. Related Stories: Thailand Set to Enforce Stricter Penalties for Drunk Driving Harsher Penalties for "Drunk Driving and Repeat Offenders" Demanded Adapted by ASEAN Now from Siam Rath 2025-12-23

Enhanced Thai Immigration Measures Rolled Out for Festive Travel Picture courtesy of Siam Rath In a coordinated effort, the Immigration Bureau and the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) are enhancing security measures to ensure the safety and well-being of tourists during the Christmas and New Year 2026 period. On December 22, 2025, key officials, including Pol. Lt. Gen. Panumas Boonlaksum and Mr. Tosapol Wannasuphaphol, oversaw the deployment of immigration officers at Suvarnabhumi Airport to facilitate smooth immigration procedures over the festive period. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1382540-enhanced-thai-immigration-measures-rolled-out-for-festive-travel/

Picture courtesy of Siam Rath In a coordinated effort, the Immigration Bureau and the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) are enhancing security measures to ensure the safety and well-being of tourists during the Christmas and New Year 2026 period. On December 22, 2025, key officials, including Pol. Lt. Gen. Panumas Boonlaksum and Mr. Tosapol Wannasuphaphol, oversaw the deployment of immigration officers at Suvarnabhumi Airport to facilitate smooth immigration procedures over the festive period. To create a welcoming atmosphere, arriving tourists were greeted with "Amazing Bag" souvenirs filled with traditional Thai gifts. Over 200 immigration officers have been mobilised to manage passengers' arrivals efficiently. The immigration plan aims to balance national security with travel convenience, covering the period from December 20, 2025, to January 5, 2026, across major airports, including Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, Phuket, Chiang Mai, and Hat Yai. Pol. Maj. Gen. Cherngron Rimphadee mentioned that to manage the expected surge of more than 166,000 daily passengers, all inspection lanes will be fully staffed during peak hours to ensure a swift immigration process. Officers will refrain from taking leave to maintain continuous service. Collaborative efforts with other agencies will prioritise passenger safety and convenience, indicating a commitment to providing a secure and pleasant experience for tourists. Pol. Lt. Gen. Panumas emphasised that during this high-traffic season, special measures are crucial for safeguarding tourists, highlighting the importance placed by the Royal Thai Police under Pol. Gen. Kittirat Phanphet. Immigration officers are equipped and ready to meet the increased demand, reinforcing Thailand's reputation as a secure and hospitable destination, reported Siam Rath. Key Takeaways: Thailand is enhancing airport security for Christmas and New Year 2026. Over 200 officers will manage arrival procedures at Suvarnabhumi Airport. Plans aim to handle over 166,000 passengers per day during the festive period. Related Stories: Streamlined Immigration Procedures Implemented at Suvarnabhumi Airport for New Year's Season New Automated Passport Control Enhances Suvarnabhumi Airport Experience Adapted by ASEAN Now from Siam Rath 2025-12-23

Democrat Leader Abhisit Pledges to Eradicate Thai Poverty Picture courtesy of Thai Rath Democrat Party leader Abhisit Vejjajiva has promised to lift Thais out of poverty if his party secures a victory in the upcoming election. At a recent press conference, Abhisit introduced the party’s slogan, crafted from two Thai phrases meaning "endure life" and "Thais no longer poor," symbolising a commitment to improving livelihoods. The party aims to address issues like debt, education, and pollution. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1382539-democrat-leader-abhisit-pledges-to-eradicate-thai-poverty/