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Thai Insurers Adopt Unified Auto Repair Timeline Standards Picture courtesy of pikisuperstar | via The Thaiger The Thai General Insurance Association (TGIA) has implemented a new unified standard for auto repair timelines to enhance consumer protection and industry transparency. A memorandum of understanding (MoU) was agreed upon with 32 non-life insurers, fostering uniformity in assessing compensation for loss of vehicle use. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1381976-thai-insurers-adopt-unified-auto-repair-timeline-standards/

Picture courtesy of pikisuperstar | via The Thaiger The Thai General Insurance Association (TGIA) has implemented a new unified standard for auto repair timelines to enhance consumer protection and industry transparency. A memorandum of understanding (MoU) was agreed upon with 32 non-life insurers, fostering uniformity in assessing compensation for loss of vehicle use. Somporn Suebthawilkul, president of TGIA, highlighted that the Motor Insurance Committee formed the framework to create an industry-wide benchmark for evaluating loss-of-use claims. The aim is to ensure fairness for policyholders by accurately mirroring real repair processes. The new framework includes three key elements: assessing repair duration based on the complexity of repair work and the number of parts involved and using actual repair days from auto shops nationwide. This comprehensive approach is designed to reduce disputes and enhance customer satisfaction by aligning with real repair conditions. The TGIA collaborated extensively with member companies, gathering input and operational data from garages across Thailand. This consultative process ensures the framework addresses common disagreements between insurers and policyholders and reflects industry realities. The MoU signifies a collective commitment to improve service standards and enhance claims governance within the non-life insurance sector. By standardising repair timelines, the initiative aims to streamline claim settlements and build trust among motorists. With the participation of 32 motor insurers, the TGIA sees the collaboration as a significant stride towards sustainable industry growth and heightened consumer confidence in Thailand’s auto insurance landscape, reported the Bangkok Post. Key Takeaways: TGIA introduces a unified repair timeline standard for insurers. Framework aims to reduce claims disputes and improve efficiency. Collaboration ensures the standards reflect real repair conditions. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-12-17

File photo for reference only US President Donald Trump has declared a "total and complete" blockade on sanctioned oil tankers moving in and out of Venezuela. In a dramatic announcement on Truth Social, Trump accused Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro's government of terrorism, drug smuggling, and human trafficking, adding to the intense pressure already on the Maduro administration. This announcement follows a week after the US seized an oil tanker off Venezuela's coast. Adding to the economic tensions, the price of US crude oil rose to around $56 a barrel, a 1.3% increase, after Trump's statement. The blockade is part of a wider strategy, with Trump claiming that Venezuela is "surrounded" by the largest naval armada in South American history. The move has sparked further allegations against Maduro's government of using stolen oil to fund criminal activities. The Trump administration has a history of accusing Venezuela of drug smuggling, leading to numerous military actions against vessels allegedly transporting narcotics. The increased presence of US warships in the region has further heightened tensions. The ongoing conflict between the US and Venezuela has been underlined by recent sanctions against six ships involved in Venezuelan oil transport and sanctions targeting Maduro's associates. The US seized the tanker Skipper off Venezuela's coast last week, accusing it of illicit oil transport. The Maduro government has condemned the action as theft and kidnapping by the US. The US military's increased presence in the Caribbean, with assets such as the USS Gerald Ford now within striking range, indicates the seriousness of the situation. These developments reflect prolonged US efforts under Trump's and President Joe Biden's administrations to challenge Maduro's rule, reported the BBC. Key Takeaways: US President Trump announces a full blockade on Venezuelan oil tankers. Tensions rise with a military presence and increased oil prices. Sanctions and naval posturing emphasise the ongoing US-Venezuela conflict. Related Stories Trump Plans Land Action in Venezuela Against Drug Networks Trump Confirms Seizure of Oil Tanker Near Venezuela Adapted by ASEAN Now from BBC 2025-12-17

Surachet 'Big Joke' Hakparn Sues Top Court Official and Committee Picture courtesy of Siam Rath Police General Surachet Hakparn, also known as "Big Joke," has taken legal action against a deputy president of the Supreme Administrative Court and 61 court administrators. The lawsuit, filed at the Central Criminal Court for Corruption and Misconduct Cases, accuses them of neglecting their duties, resulting in unlawful conduct and personal harm. This legal move follows a previous filing against the deputy president of the same court. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1381970-surachet-big-joke-hakpan-sues-top-court-official-and-committee/

Picture courtesy of Siam Rath Police General Surachet Hakparn, also known as "Big Joke," has taken legal action against a deputy president of the Supreme Administrative Court and 61 court administrators. The lawsuit, filed at the Central Criminal Court for Corruption and Misconduct Cases, accuses them of neglecting their duties, resulting in unlawful conduct and personal harm. This legal move follows a previous filing against the deputy president of the same court. The court case unfolds in the context of Surachet challenging the decisions and actions of the Administrative Court officials, which he alleges were biased and damaging. The allegations suggest the officials performed their duties improperly, causing him personal and professional harm. The involvement of high-ranking court officials adds gravity to the proceedings, drawing public and media attention. Expert analysts suggest that the lawsuit could have serious consequences for the Thai judicial system, highlighting issues of accountability and transparency. Legal commentators are closely observing the developments, as the case brings into question the conduct of senior court officials. The outcome may set a precedent for how such internal judiciary conflicts are managed in the future. The next steps involve the court reviewing the evidence and claims presented by Surachet. As the legal process progresses, the Central Criminal Court will be scrutinised for its handling of these high-profile allegations. The case is expected to progress through several stages before reaching a resolution. Key Takeaways "Big Joke" has sued 62 top Thai court officials. The case centres on alleged misconduct causing personal harm. Proceedings spotlight the Thai judiciary's accountability practices. Related Stories: Surachate 'Big Joke' Hakparn challenges Thai PM over dismissal Big Joke changes name for better luck amid gambling scandal Adapted by ASEAN Now from Siam Rath 2025-12-17

The Trump administration has expanded its travel ban, affecting an additional 20 countries and the Palestinian Authority. This doubles the number of nations impacted by restrictions designed to tighten U.S. entry measures. Five countries and those travelling with Palestinian Authority documents face a complete travel ban, while 15 others face new limitations. Previously in June, the U.S. president announced bans on 12 countries and restrictions on seven more, citing security concerns. The latest expansion follows the Thanksgiving arrest of an Afghan national suspected of shooting two National Guard troops. People with valid visas or certain statuses remain exempt from these new rules, though it is unclear when they will take effect. The countries newly facing a full ban include Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger, South Sudan, and Syria. Meanwhile, individuals with documents issued by the Palestinian Authority face complete travel restrictions. Additional countries such as Angola and Zimbabwe will now experience partial restrictions, impacting both visitors and emigrants. The rationale behind the expansion includes issues of corruption and unreliable documentation in these nations, complicating U.S. vetting processes. National security, foreign policy, and immigration enforcement are cited as reasons for this broadened approach. The move has drawn sharp criticism from opponents who argue the measures target individuals based on nationality rather than actual security threats. Laurie Ball Cooper of the International Refugee Assistance Project criticises the move, arguing it's an attempt to demonise individuals based criticises the move, arguing it's an attempt to demonise individuals based on their originsas executed a wave of immigration restrictions. The policy additions affect countries previously under partial limitations, either augmenting or in some instances, easing them. The new policies represent a significant extension of prior bans and restrictions, which themselves drew heated controversy. These rules limit Palestinians' ability to enter the U.S., claiming increased risks from hostile groups in the West Bank and Gaza. Continued debates are likely, with impacts on international relations and individuals seeking entry to the U.S, reported AP via Yahoo News. Key Takeaways New travel ban affects 20 additional countries and the Palestinian Authority. Exemptions include those with existing visas and specific statuses; rollout timing remains unclear. Expansion driven by security and documentation concerns; faces major criticism. Related Stories: US Travel Bans Set to Widen, Homeland Security Urges Action US Mulls Cambodia Travel Ban Amid Visa, Security Concerns Adapted by ASEAN Now from AP | Yahoo News 2025-12-17

Picture courtesy of Financial Times A suspect involved in the Bondi Beach mass shooting hailed originally from Hyderabad, India, police sources reveal. Sajid Akram, 50, and his 24-year-old son, Naveed, are believed to have killed 15 people and wounded many others at a Hanukkah celebration in Sydney on Sunday. Sajid migrated to Australia in 1998 and had limited contact with India, visiting only six times for family affairs. His Indian relatives claim ignorance of his radical activities. Sajid, who held an Indian passport, had no criminal record in India. Australian authorities are probing a recent trip the father and son made to the Philippines, sparking suspicions of possible “military-style training” during their stay. Investigations are ongoing as experts indicate no direct ties to radical influences from India. The pair travelled to the Philippines from 1 to 28 November, triggering concerns. Although speculation exists around their activities, official confirmation of their training remains absent. Naveed Akram attracted security attention in 2019 for alleged associations with a Sydney-based IS cell, according to ABC. The IS group, responsible for major attacks worldwide, creates additional concern around potential terrorist links. Nevertheless, evaluations at that time detected no imminent threat. Philippine and Australian officials, including Maria Theresa Lazaro and Penny Wong, are collaborating closely, sharing updates on the investigation. As the events unfold, we anticipate further revelations about their motivations and potential networks, reported the BBC. Key Takeaways Sajid Akram and his son, Naveed, suspected in Bondi Beach shooting. Hyderabad-born Sajid visited India sparingly since moving to Australia. Authorities investigate their recent suspicious trip to the Philippines. Related Storiy: Terror At Bondi Beach As Gunmen Slaughter Festival Crowd Adapted by ASEAN Now from BBC 2025-12-17

Susie Wiles. Picture courtesy of Wikipedia White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles has challenged a recent Vanity Fair article portraying a chaotic image of the Trump administration. In several interviews, Wiles allegedly criticised US President Donald Trump, Vice-President JD Vance, and tech billionaire Elon Musk. She has accused the publication of excluding crucial context to generate a negative narrative. Wiles, 68, has been a significant figure in Trump’s administration, playing key roles in both his campaigns and fundraising efforts. Her interviews with Vanity Fair covered a range of topics, including Trump’s legal battles and internal dynamics. Notably, she commented on Trump’s willingness to seize opportunities for retribution but denied it being his primary focus. Wiles also shared insights on personalities within the Trump circle. She described Trump as having an “alcoholic’s personality,” managing with an unshakeable mindset. Regarding JD Vance, she hinted at political motivations behind his support for Trump. Vance responded that he only believes in “true” conspiracy theories. Wiles was particularly critical of Elon Musk’s government efficiency cost-cutting efforts, equating his methods to breaking valued systems. She revealed her initial opposition to Musk’s actions, particularly the reduction of USAID, which she believes plays an important role. This critique followed a fallout between Trump and Musk, evidenced by a public exchange of insults. After the Vanity Fair article release, Wiles took to social media platform X, denouncing the piece as a “disingenuously framed hit piece.” She stated that much of her and her colleagues' input was omitted, leading to a skewed portrayal of the Trump team. The White House backed Wiles, with Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt lauding her as Trump’s most loyal advisor. Both Trump and Musk have yet to publicly address the Vanity Fair article. The situation highlights ongoing tensions and varied perceptions within and outside the Trump administration, reported the BBC. Key Takeaways: Susie Wiles disputes Vanity Fair’s portrayal of chaos within Trump’s administration. Wiles describes Trump and Vance in candid terms, sparking varied reactions. The White House defends Wiles, labelling the article "biassed and misleading." Adapted by ASEAN Now from BBC 2025-12-17

Denmark Urges Caution: New Travel Advice for Thai Border Zone Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Copenhagen. File photo courtesy of Wikipedia Denmark’s Foreign Ministry has issued updated travel guidance for Thailand, cautioning against all travel to a 50 km zone along the Cambodian border. This follows a heightened tension in the Thailand–Cambodia border dispute. The announcement aligns with Sweden's recent travel advisory update. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1381961-denmark-urges-caution-new-travel-advice-for-thai-border-zone/

Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Copenhagen. File photo courtesy of Wikipedia Denmark’s Foreign Ministry has issued updated travel guidance for Thailand, cautioning against all travel to a 50 km zone along the Cambodian border. This follows a heightened tension in the Thailand–Cambodia border dispute. The announcement aligns with Sweden's recent travel advisory update. Included in the travel warning are islands in Thailand's Trat province, such as Koh Chang, Koh Kood, and Koh Mak. The ministry cites an unstable security situation that could worsen unexpectedly. Concerns include potential military clashes, missile impacts, and possible curfews. Travellers are advised to stay informed via local media and Thai authorities, adhering to any instructions given. The update seems necessary for Scandinavians living in Thailand and Nordic tourists considering travel to border areas or Trat's islands. Tourists are encouraged to discuss travel plans with tour operators or insurance providers. In cases requiring immediate help, the ministry recommends contacting Denmark’s Global Watch Center, reported ScandAsia. Key Takeaways: Denmark advises against travel to a 50 km zone near Cambodia's border. Trat province islands are also covered due to security worries. Travellers should consult with operators and stay informed. Related Story: Swedish Embassy Advises Citizens on Thai–Cambodia Border Tensions Adapted by ASEAN Now from ScandAsia 2025-12-17

UPDATE: BBC to Fight Trump $5B Lawsuit Linked to Panorama Edit video screenshot The BBC faces a $5bn lawsuit from US President Donald Trump over an edited Panorama documentary that allegedly defamed him by altering his 6 January 2021 speech. Trump claims the edit misrepresented his words, leading to the lawsuit filed in Florida, despite the BBC's apology and dismissal of the defamation claim. The broadcaster insists it will defend against the allegations. The controversy stems from the BBC's Panorama programme, which aired in the UK ahead of the 2024 US election. Trump’s speech, just before the US Capitol riot, was edited, implying a direct call to action, sparking the legal dispute. An internal BBC leak criticised the edit, causing resignations within senior management, including Tim Davie and Deborah Turness. The BBC maintains the edit was not malicious, asserting it did not result in harm to Trump, who was re-elected soon after. The broadcaster also clarified that the documentary was not distributed on its US channels and restricted its availability to the UK on iPlayer. However, Trump's legal team cited agreements with third-party distributors allowing American access, including Blue Ant Media’s licensing for North America, which the BBC has yet to address. Blue Ant confirmed distribution rights but stated the US version omitted the controversial edit. Additionally, Trump's lawsuit suggests Floridian viewers accessed the programme via VPNs or the streaming service BritBox. Experts express doubt over the lawsuit's success given the high defamation standards in the US. Chris Ruddy of Newsmax advises a settlement to avoid litigation costs estimated between 1,845 million and 3,691 million Thai baht. However, former BBC Radio controller Mark Damazer argues that the case is pivotal for the BBC's independence and reputation. The UK government, while supporting the BBC’s independence, urges prompt error correction to maintain public trust. Parliamentary voices express concern, with Shadow Culture Secretary Nigel Huddleston warning of potential impacts on licence fee payers and Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey calling the lawsuit "unacceptable." Trump's legal actions against media outlets are a recurrent theme, with previous successful claims reinforcing his approach. Key Takeaways: BBC facing a $5bn lawsuit from Trump over a Panorama edit. Trump claims the edit of his speech was defamatory, leading to legal action. The BBC intends to strongly defend its position in the court case. Adapted by ASEAN Now from BBC 2025-12-17

Anutin Tells Trump: Cambodia Must Cease Fire First Picture courtesy of Kaohoon International Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has called on US President Donald Trump to urge Cambodia to stop firing first. This comes after Trump threatened tariffs on Thailand and Cambodia if hostilities continue. Trump made these remarks in an interview with The Wall Street Journal, highlighting his use of tariffs as leverage. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1381952-anutin-tells-trump-cambodia-must-cease-fire-first/

Picture courtesy of Kaohoon International Thailand's Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has called on US President Donald Trump to urge Cambodia to stop firing first. This comes after Trump threatened tariffs on Thailand and Cambodia if hostilities continue. Trump made these remarks in an interview with The Wall Street Journal, highlighting his use of tariffs as leverage. Trump's comments followed phone discussions with Thai and Cambodian leaders, Anutin Charnvirakul and Hun Manet. Trump claimed both agreed to a ceasefire within 24 hours to resume peace agreements. Despite this, fighting persisted between the two countries. Speaking to reporters after a National Security Council meeting, Anutin refrained from commenting on Trump's tariff threat. He dismissed suggestions of international pressure for a ceasefire and questioned Cambodian accusations of Thai aggression. He highlighted videos showing Cambodia firing BM-21 rockets as evidence. Anutin remarked on oil tankers at the Chong Mek border, noting they were destined for Laos, not Cambodia. Deputy Army Spokesperson Col. Richa Suksuwanon noted a decrease in Khmer gunfire, possibly due to disrupted Cambodian supply lines. However, resistance remains in Thai-controlled areas. Amid these tensions, Col. Richa addressed suspicions about seized Chinese weapons, denying any evidence of Chinese support but confirming Thai control over the arms. Air force spokesperson ACM Chakrit Thamvichai stated that Thai military operations continue robustly to deter Cambodian aggression. Lt. Cmdr. Napasorn Tippaso of the navy reported the arrest of a suspected spy in Trat province. There is a potential link between the suspect and a senior Cambodian police officer, but further details are still unknown, reported Thai Newsroom. Key Takeaways Anutin urges Trump to address Cambodian aggression before any tariffs. Trump claimed ceasefire agreements, but hostilities persist. Thai military efforts focus on disrupting Cambodian supply lines. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai Newsroom 2025-12-17

Swedish Embassy Advises Citizens on Thai–Cambodia Border Tensions Picture Facebook Swedish Embassy The Swedish Embassy in Thailand has issued a strong warning to its citizens, advising against travel within 50 kilometres of the Thailand–Cambodia border. This alert, which includes islands in the eastern province of Trat such as Ko Chang, Ko Kut, and Ko Mak, comes amid escalating tensions. The advisory, posted on 16 December 2025, emphasises the importance of safety and remains effective since 12 December 2025 until further notice. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1381950-swedish-embassy-advises-citizens-on-thai–cambodia-border-tension/

Picture Facebook Swedish Embassy The Swedish Embassy in Thailand has issued a strong warning to its citizens, advising against travel within 50 kilometres of the Thailand–Cambodia border. This alert, which includes islands in the eastern province of Trat such as Ko Chang, Ko Kut, and Ko Mak, comes amid escalating tensions. The advisory, posted on 16 December 2025, emphasises the importance of safety and remains effective since 12 December 2025 until further notice. This decision stems from ongoing border tensions and follows the Ministry of Foreign Affairs' caution against visiting other sensitive border areas like Narathiwat, Yala, Pattani, and Songkhla. The involvement of Saab, a Swedish defence company, has been linked to the situation. Saab, known for supplying Thailand with Gripen fighter jets, is reportedly supporting Thailand in its military operations against Cambodia. The company's announcement in December 2025, highlighted on social media, discussed contracts with the Royal Thai Air Force and underscored Thailand’s reliance on their aircraft. The embassy’s warning is part of a broader cautionary stance related to these geopolitical concerns. It has drawn attention from travel and security experts due to its potential impact on Swedish travellers and the tourism industry in the affected regions. Saab's role in providing military support through its fighter jets may have further complicated diplomatic relations, influencing travel advisories. Moving forward, the situation at the Thailand–Cambodia border is being closely monitored. Authorities have not yet specified a timeline for lifting the advisory. Swedish travellers are urged to stay informed about regional developments and adhere to official guidelines to ensure their safety. Key Takeaways Swedish citizens are warned to avoid the Thailand–Cambodia border and Trat islands. The advisory may be due to Saab's military involvement in Thai operations. The situation is under observation, with no end date for the advisory. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Nation 2025-12-17

Cambodia Hires Foreign Lobbyists for PR Battle with Thailand Rear Adm Surasant Kongsiri. Video screenshot Thailand's Defence Ministry has accused Cambodia of employing foreign lobbyists to sway global opinion amid tensions between the two nations. Rear Adm Surasant Kongsiri stated that these lobbyists are portraying Cambodia as the victim in the ongoing conflict, stirring international sympathy against Thailand. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1381947-cambodia-hires-foreign-lobbyists-for-pr-battle-with-thailand/

Rear Adm Surasant Kongsiri. Video screenshot Thailand's Defence Ministry has accused Cambodia of employing foreign lobbyists to sway global opinion amid tensions between the two nations. Rear Adm Surasant Kongsiri stated that these lobbyists are portraying Cambodia as the victim in the ongoing conflict, stirring international sympathy against Thailand. The Ministry highlighted that social media is rife with war-related reports shared by western lobbyists. These lobbyists are seen in videos alleging Thai aggression, framing Thailand as impacting civilian areas rather than military targets. Surasant pointed out that Thailand does not have any foreign lobbyists representing it; instead, it depends on its Ministry of Foreign Affairs to shape the international narrative. The Defence Ministry asserts that Thailand's actions solely target the military, refuting claims made by lobbyists about their impact on civilians. Maratee Andamo, of the Department of Information, emphasised that Thailand counters misinformation with facts and official communications to global organisations, suggesting these informative tactics have limited longevity without substantive backing. In early incidents, a US PR consultant falsely posing as a journalist spread dubious reports to gain sympathy for Cambodia. The STRONG Anti-Corruption Thailand Club has identified documents showing Cambodia hired multiple lobbying firms. Among them, National Consulting Services Inc was engaged specifically to tarnish Thailand's image for a fee of $38,000 a month, part of a larger strategy led by Phnom Penh. Images associated with the lobbyists' campaign purportedly show Cambodian villagers injured by rubber bullets, further inflaming the situation. The Anti-Corruption group calls this "full-scale information warfare," cautioning about the legal implications of such tactics under international laws. Key Takeaways Cambodia reportedly hires foreign lobbyists to shape global perceptions against Thailand. Thailand counters lobbyist narratives through its Foreign Affairs and factual dissemination. Documents reveal Cambodia’s active PR campaign to reposition itself amid tensions. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-12-17

16 Thai Civilians Dead Amid Ongoing Border Tensions File photo courtesy of Wikipedia Border clashes between Thailand and Cambodia persisted on Tuesday, with Thai officials confirming the civilian death toll has now reached 16. The Thai Defence Ministry reported limited economic impact so far, despite escalating military actions. Heavy shelling continues at strategic locations, with both sides exchanging fire. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1381945-16-thai-civilians-dead-amid-ongoing-border-tensions/

File photo courtesy of Wikipedia Border clashes between Thailand and Cambodia persisted on Tuesday, with Thai officials confirming the civilian death toll has now reached 16. The Thai Defence Ministry has reported limited economic impacts so far, despite escalating military actions. Heavy shelling continues at strategic locations, with both sides exchanging fire. In recent developments, Rear Adm Surasant Kongsiri stated Cambodian forces continued their assault, prompting Thai military retaliation. BM-21 rockets targeted strategic sites like Hill 677 and the Chong An Ma border pass in Ubon Ratchathani early Tuesday. Subsequently, they deployed heavy weapons at Hill 350 and the Prasat Ta Khwai temple in Surin province, an ongoing flashpoint in the conflict. From December 7 to 16, 16 Thai civilians died due to the fighting. Causes included rocket shrapnel and indirect impacts like traffic incidents and restricted access to medical care. Despite these events, the Department of Foreign Trade observed a minimal impact on Thailand's exports, with an overall growth of 13% year over year in the first ten months. Deputy Director-General of the Department of Foreign Trade, Duangarthit Nidhi-u-tai, highlighted that Thai exports reached 9.3 trillion baht this year, despite border closures since July. In October alone, exports amounted to 900 billion baht, marking a 5.7% increase. Meanwhile, the deputy governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand, Nithee Sriprae, noted that foreign tourist arrivals have remained steady, without cancellations in major tourist hubs. The TAT anticipates 32.8 million foreign visitors for the year, attributing any downturn to a prior decline in Chinese tourists, which now shows signs of recovery. Domestic tourism remains robust, especially in the north and northeast, despite rescheduling due to the conflict in areas like Trat. Sunday’s heavy fighting led to a curfew in Trat, but it has since been lifted. The Thai cabinet allocated 2.44 billion baht from the government’s contingency fund to support military efforts along the eastern border. Government spokesman Siripong Angkasakulkiat confirmed the funds are geared toward army and navy operations in response to the ongoing tensions, reported the Bangkok Post. Key Takeaways: Thai civilian deaths from the conflict have reached 16. Thailand's export growth continues despite border clashes. Tourist arrivals remain steady, with shifts in domestic travel. Related Stories: Rising Tensions: Is Full-Scale War Looming on the Thailand-Cambodia Border? Cambodia Masses 12,000 Soldiers at Thai Border Amid Tensions Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-12-17

Helicopter Maker Leonardo Denies Liability in UK Vichai Crash Picture courtesy of pixel8000 | via The Thaiger Italy-based aerospace company Leonardo has firmly denied responsibility for the tragic 2018 helicopter crash that resulted in the death of Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha, a well-known Thai entrepreneur and Leicester City football club owner. In a lawsuit from Vichai’s family, Leonardo is being sued for up to £2.15 billion (approximately 98 billion Thai baht) in London’s High Court. The company maintains that its AW169 model, which was involved in the incident, remains safe and that this was the first crash of its kind. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1381943-helicopter-maker-leonardo-denies-liability-in-uk-vichai-crash/

Picture courtesy of pixel8000 | via The Thaiger Italy-based aerospace company Leonardo has firmly denied responsibility for the tragic 2018 helicopter crash that resulted in the death of Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha, a well-known Thai entrepreneur and Leicester City football club owner. Vichai's family is suing Leonardo for up to £2.15 billion (approximately 98 billion Thai baht) in London's High Court. The company maintains that its AW169 model, which was involved in the incident, remains safe and that the case was the first crash of its kind. Vichai, renowned in Britain for his ownership of Leicester City during their miraculous 2015-16 Premier League victory, tragically died after his helicopter crashed just outside the stadium on October 27, 2018, and burst into flames. The inquest jury ruled in January that the incident, which claimed the lives of Vichai, two staff members, pilot Eric Swaffer, and co-pilot and partner Izabela Roza Lechowicz, was accidental. The family filed their case in January, seeking compensation for lost earnings and other damages, while their legal representatives have not commented on Leonardo’s counterclaims. Leonardo submitted a written defence that was made public last week, asserting no liability for the crash, stating that every aviation authority has declared the AW169 safe. They also proposed that the pilot's controlled landing could have prevented the helicopter from catching fire. Leonardo expressed sympathy for Vichai’s family but stated that the legal claims against them lack both factual and legal grounds. Britain’s Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) reported in 2023 that a severe tail rotor failure led to the crash, leaving no room for recovery. Leonardo disputes these findings, highlighting the absence of any safety recommendations directed at them. As the legal proceedings continue, the outcome could have major consequences regarding aviation safety standards and liability within the industry, reported the Bangkok Post. Key Takeaways: Leonardo denies liability for the 2018 helicopter crash that killed Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha. The family is suing for up to £2.15 billion over lost earnings and damages. AAIB reported unrecoverable tail rotor failure, but Leonardo disputes these findings. Related story: Tragic crash report unveils devastating loss of Leicester City’s beloved Thai chairman and crew Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-12-17

Bangkok's Skytrain Future Under Review as City Hall Acts BTS Skytrain. File photo Bangkok city officials are gearing up to decide the fate of the skytrain system, with the current concession expiring in 2029. The Traffic and Transportation Department will finalise a study next month, presenting its recommendations to the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA), as revealed at a recent forum. Sitthiporn Somkitsan, director-general, stated the report will include insights from various stakeholders about the mass-transit train line's future contract. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1381942-bangkoks-skytrain-future-under-review-as-city-hall-acts/

BTS Skytrain. File photo Bangkok city officials are gearing up to decide the fate of the skytrain system, with the current concession expiring in 2029. The Traffic and Transportation Department will finalise a study next month, presenting its recommendations to the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA), as revealed at a recent forum. Sitthiporn Somkitsan, director-general, stated the report will include insights from various stakeholders about the mass-transit train line's future contract. At present, the concession covers sections from National Stadium to Saphan Taksin on the Silom Line and Mor Chit to Onnut on the Sukhumvit Line. The system is operated by Bangkok Mass Transit System Co (BTSC), which may seek an extension until 2059. However, competition could arise from firms like Ch. Karnchang, Sino-Thai Engineering and Construction, Gulf Energy Development Plc, and Don Muang Tollway operator, who have all shown interest. BTSC's skytrain carries 850,000 passenger trips daily, potentially reaching 1.55 million with two extra carriages per train. Despite rivals, BTSC believes it maintains a competitive edge due to lower investment costs for a new bid. Meanwhile, future plans might also depend on central government policies, according to Adul Kaewdee from the Association of Siamese Architects. One consideration is transferring ownership from the BMA to the Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand, aligning with any government favouring a flat-rate fare that favours lines. The 20-baht flat fare was a key Pheu Thai Party promise, hindered by their exit from office before implementation. The skytrain’s future concession will ultimately require cabinet approval in its final stage, reported the Bangkok Post. Key Takeaways Bangkok aims to decide on the skytrain concession, with the current one expiring in 2029. Stakeholders include BTSC and potential competitors like major construction firms. The final decision needs cabinet approval and may involve policy changes. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-12-17

Klatham Pins PM Hopes on Thammanat in Feb 8 Election Thammanat Prompao. Picture courtesy of Amarin TV De Facto Klatham boss Thammanat Prompao has been confirmed as the top contender for prime minister in the February 8 election, according to Klatham leader Naruemon Pinyosinwat. Thammanat, currently the acting deputy prime minister and acting agriculture minister, plans to run despite facing allegations of connections with international money-laundering suspects, including Benjamin Mauerberger. Naruemon, who is acting education minister, did not reveal if she might be Thammanat’s running mate or if other candidates will join him on the Klatham ticket. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1381941-thammanat-set-as-klatham’s-top-pm-contender/

Thammanat Prompao. Picture courtesy of Amarin TV De Facto Klatham boss Thammanat Prompao has been confirmed as the top contender for prime minister in the February 8 election, according to Klatham leader Naruemon Pinyosinwat. Thammanat, currently the acting deputy prime minister and acting agriculture minister, plans to run despite facing allegations of connections with international money-laundering suspects, including Benjamin Mauerberger. Naruemon, who is acting education minister, did not reveal if she might be Thammanat’s running mate or if other candidates will join him on the Klatham ticket. Thammanat is expected to attract many former MPs to join Klatham for re-election under its banner, including ex-Democrat MPs led by Chalermchai Sri-on. These defections are mostly anticipated in southern constituencies. Thammanat predicts that Klatham will secure around 80 MP seats, primarily in northern and southern regions. Key Takeaways Thammanat Prompao confirmed as Klatham’s top PM contender for 2025. Pheu Thai and the People’s Party announce their candidates as the election heats up. Political party movements continue with MPs switching allegiances ahead of the poll. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai Newsroom 2025-12-17