webfact

Southeast Asian Journalists Unite Against Corruption by Krajangwit Johjit BANGKOK (NNT) - Investigative journalists from seven Southeast Asian countries converged in Manila on March 19-20 to form a coalition against corruption in the region, addressing corruption that stifles sustainable development despite economic growth. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1323570-southeast-asian-journalists-unite-against-corruption/

BANGKOK (NNT) - Investigative journalists from seven Southeast Asian countries converged in Manila on March 19-20 to form a coalition against corruption in the region, addressing corruption that stifles sustainable development despite economic growth. The event, which saw participation from Thailand, The Philippines, Malaysia, Indonesia, Timor-Leste, Laos, and Cambodia, highlighted concerns about slow responses to corrupt practices and the challenge of improving governance in rapidly growing economies with increasing foreign direct investments. Transparency International's 2023 Corruption Perceptions Index revealed varying levels of corruption across these countries, with Singapore ranking the highest and Myanmar unfortunately the lowest in the region. Investigative journalists face numerous hurdles, including access to information, regulatory pushbacks, and ensuring the safety of their sources. To combat these challenges, participants advocated for enhanced legal protections for information freedom, increased inter-journalist collaboration, and better cyber protection. The meeting culminated in the establishment of the Journalists Against Corruption (JAC) network, aimed at fostering regional collaboration among journalists to uncover corruption stories and providing support and protection for those involved in such investigations. by Krajangwit Johjit Source: NNT 2024-03-29 - Discover how Cigna Insurance can protect you with a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment. For more information on expat health insurance click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Unprecedented crisis for the Thai Police as Srettha baulks despite lawyer’s damning claims by James Morris and Son Nguyen On Thursday, crusading lawyer Sittra Biebangkerd (centre left) met with Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) deputy chief Police Major General Charoonkiat Pankaew (centre right). He handed him damning information relating to illegal online gambling corruption linked with senior police officers. Mr Sittra gave the police 30 days to act on the information. In turn, he promised there is a lot more to come. In the meantime, he has threatened to take the matter to the opposition parties if Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin continues in his refusal to act on what he claims is genuine evidence of widespread corruption within the police force. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1323569-unprecedented-crisis-for-the-thai-police-as-srettha-baulks-despite-lawyer’s-damning-claims/

On Thursday, crusading lawyer Sittra Biebangkerd (centre left) met with Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) deputy chief Police Major General Charoonkiat Pankaew (centre right). He handed him damning information relating to illegal online gambling corruption linked with senior police officers. Mr Sittra gave the police 30 days to act on the information. In turn, he promised there is a lot more to come. In the meantime, he has threatened to take the matter to the opposition parties if Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin continues in his refusal to act on what he claims is genuine evidence of widespread corruption within the police force. Terrifying police corruption scandal unveiled. Lawyer’s shocking claims rock Thailand. Well-known lawyer Sittra Biabungkerd has alleged rampant corruption within the Royal Thai Police, implicating high-ranking officers. Allegations suggest an alternative police network generating hundreds of millions monthly from crime. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin is now facing mounting pressure for decisive action as public alarm grows but declines to act. Thailand’s Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin refuses to take further decisive action after groundbreaking revelations emerged from crusading lawyer Sittra Biebangkerd. The claims by the lawyer, if substantiated, would mean a need for a root and branch cleanout of the Royal Thai Police. In short, the disturbing claims suggest an alternative police network within the force dedicated to generating monthly income from corruption. Mr Sittra claims that the network generates ฿100 million a month from criminal activities across the kingdom ranging from sex drugs to illegal cigarettes and of course, illegal gambling. Indeed, the disturbing nature of the allegations by Mr Sittra has, according to reports, already led to National Police Chief General Torsak Sukwimol moving to institute defamation proceedings. Revelations by an activist lawyer this week of wholesale corruption within the Royal Thai Police is putting pressure on Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. On Tuesday, another groundbreaking press conference exposed a vast corruption network. In brief, this is alleged to be operating in parallel with the operations of the Royal Thai Police nationwide. by James Morris and Son Nguyen Full story: Thai Examiner.com 2024-03-29 - Discover how Cigna Insurance can protect you with a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment. For more information on expat health insurance click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

“Flowers of Thailand” the new music video from “The Isan Project” was launched today by the former Minister of Tourism and Sports “Senator Weerasak Kowsurat” at a private luncheon in Spectrum lounge, Hyatt Regency, Bangkok. The latest creation by The Isan Project is expected to encourage tourists to visit some of the most beautiful parts of Thailand, some of which have been Thailands secret gems for years. Stunning scenery, amazing vibrant flowers fields, a red lotus sea, a lotus temple, and a yellow mountain are just some of the locations filmed by British Director and Music Producer “Will Robinson” in this three and a half minute masterpiece around Isan and The North of Thailand. The lead is played by actress Monly Jasmin who is one of Chiang Mai’s emerging young talents. The video starts with Monly on a horse drawn carriage in Lampang where the eighteen year old jumps on a train ride across Thailand’s North and North East scenic railways to reach the flower fields. The Isan Project also visited Mae Hong Son, Phu Lom Lo in Loei, Chiang Rai, Mae Mon and Mae Sai to piece together this unique idea for tourism. The song driving these beautiful scenes is performed by “Sonna Rele” the voice of Disney soundtrack “Strong” from “Cinderella” and is written by Will and his writing partner “Daniel Ryan”. Drummer “Erik Hargrove” from The James Brown band, Saxophonist “Andy Ross” from Incognito joined the projects all star band line up on the tune. Senator Weerasak says “…Thailand is expanding a lot of train tracks throughout every direction making the country easier to visit and commute from one town station to another. This connectivity includes electric trains that cut through every major part of Greater Bangkok, high speed trains that connects Chiang Mai to the North, Hua Hin to the South and is connecting the Thai railroad systems to the China-Laos international rail link which is a new fascinating way to travel in this part of Asia through the North Eastern region of Thailand. Flowers of Thailand reflects the value of these smaller town attractions and the dreams of train tourism that will continue to grow in our beloved country…”, Will Robinson adds “Thailand gets better and better, this was another lifetime experience putting this film together in this great country, Daniel and I had written this little ditty a while ago but I had to wait for each field to blossom to complete this mission and I love these long trips there’s so much to see and enjoy”. The Isan Project in its tenth year also penned the popular tourists songs “Thailand Amazing Thailand”, “This is the moment” and “Amazing Thailand Dance with me”. Flowers of Thailand is available from all digital music stores and can be seen on the Isan Project’s YouTube channel. PRESS RELEASE

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Friday 29 March 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1323566-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-friday-29-march-2024/

Thailand is considering legalising casinos, as a means to attract high-spending tourists. 253 out of 257 lawmakers voted in favour of a study to allow casinos to be located within large entertainment complexes. Thailand is the latest country to consider competing for a slice of the global casino industry, which generated an estimated $263 billion dollars last year. More than 30 police officers raided four locations in Nakhon Si Thammarat yesterday to close a large Chinese call centre gang that had scammed both Thai and Chinese citizens. The Chinese leader was apprehended together with 71 Thai and Chinese suspects, more than 200 computers were seized..A press conference is due later today. \ The Deputy National Police Chief Surachate Hakparn is expected to present himself to police investigators by April 1st or face arrest, he faces several money-laundering accusations.. This comes after he failed to show up in response to two previous, summonses, a third one was issued on Wednesday. The cabinet has agreed in principle on five bills to amend the alcoholic beverages control law, which seek to extend selling hours and allow greater flexibility for advertising. The bills will now be submitted for their second and third readings. Around the region Singapore A Chinese national has been sentenced to 3 months jail , for selling fake Taylor Swift tickets and helping three people gate crash the concert. The 29 year old pleaded guilty to one charge of cheating and one charge of criminal trespass. WEATHER Chiang Mai and the north: Sunny 39C Bangkok: sunny but partly Cloudy 35C Pattaya: partly cloudy with showers 35C Phuket and the south: partly cloudy with showers 33C Hua Hin: Bright but cloudy, winds light from the south. 34C 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 2024-03-29 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 - Discover how Cigna Insurance can protect you with a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment. For more information on expat health insurance click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Government Holds Seminar on E-Cigarette Dangers, Urges Vigilance at Educational Institutions in Bangkok By Kittisak Phalaharn Bangkok—At 9:00 AM, on March 28th, 2024, Dr. Puangpetch Chunlaid, the Minister attached to the Prime Minister’s Office and relevant agencies held a seminar on e-cigarette dangers to administrators of 437 educational institutions in Bangkok. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1323562-thai-government-holds-seminar-on-e-cigarette-dangers/

Bangkok—At 9:00 AM, on March 28th, 2024, Dr. Puangpetch Chunlaid, the Minister attached to the Prime Minister’s Office and relevant agencies held a seminar on e-cigarette dangers to administrators of 437 educational institutions in Bangkok. Dr. Puangpetch publicly stated that e-cigarettes posed concerns in Thai society as they could easily be accessed by youths and minors. To successfully eradicate e-cigarettes, all sectors needed to integrate and join hands. Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin issued an order to relevant agencies to tackle the e-cigarette problems as many guardians filed complaint reports to the Thai Office of the Consumer Protection Board. There were illegal e-cigarette sales in educational institutes and community areas, according to the complaints. By Kittisak Phalaharn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-03-29 - Discover how Cigna Insurance can protect you with a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment. For more information on expat health insurance click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Chiang Mai Hotel Bookings at 30% as Air Pollution Concerns Loom; Hopes for Songkran Boost By Kittisak Phalaharn Chiang Mai—On March 27th, 2024, Mrs. La-iad Bungsrithong, the Northern Thai Hotels Association advisor, publicly revealed that the statistics of hotel bookings in Chiang Mai were only 30% full compared to the start of April from the previous year, 2023. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1323561-chiang-mai-hotel-bookings-at-30-as-air-pollution-concerns-loom-hopes-for-songkran-boost/

Chiang Mai—On March 27th, 2024, Mrs. La-iad Bungsrithong, the Northern Thai Hotels Association advisor, publicly revealed that the statistics of hotel bookings in Chiang Mai were only 30% full compared to the start of April from the previous year, 2023. However, it was expected that the occupancy number would surge back to 70% during the Songkran Festival. In Chiang Mai, La-iad publicly stated the water play would be from April 13th to 15th, however, like other provinces, some areas would be designated to start the water play from April 1st onward. During this time of the year in Chiang Mai, many tourists choose to visit tropical islands like Koh Samui as Chiang Mai is a destination for those who want to appreciate a cool winter. Moreover, Chiang Mai is currently facing air pollution at a concerning level, and hopefully, in April, more tourists would visit Chiang Mai if PM 2.5 problems are alleviated, said La-iad. By Kittisak Phalaharn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-03-29 - Discover how Cigna Insurance can protect you with a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment. For more information on expat health insurance click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Koh Samui Experiences Tourism Surge: Fully Booked Flights and Hotels Amid Summer Season By Kittisak Phalaharn Surat Thani—On March 27th, 2024, Koh Samui local media reported a large number of foreign tourists flocking to Koh Samui, Surat Thani. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1323560-koh-samui-experiences-tourism-surge-fully-booked-flights-and-hotels-amid-summer-season/

Surat Thani—On March 27th, 2024, Koh Samui local media reported a large number of foreign tourists flocking to Koh Samui, Surat Thani. It was reported that Bangkok Airways was fully booked for 43 flights in March and it was estimated that more than 4,500 individuals visited Koh Samui daily. According to Koh Samui local media, a majority of tourists visit Koh Samui for relaxation during the summer in Thailand. Chaweng Beach, a popular beach destination for foreign tourists, has many activities available such as sunbathing, water sports, and other cooling activities. However, since the summer in Thailand was typically scorching, many hotels on Koh Samui were fully booked until the last day of the Songkran Festival in April, generating massive income for locals, according to Koh Samui local media. By Kittisak Phalaharn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-03-29 - Discover how Cigna Insurance can protect you with a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment. For more information on expat health insurance click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Man Arrested for Attempting to Stab Municipality Officer in Pattaya By Aim Tanakorn Pattaya —A Thai man in Pattaya was arrested around midnight on Thursday, March 28th, for erratic behavior and trying to stab a municipality officer. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1323559-man-arrested-for-attempting-to-stab-municipality-officer-in-pattaya/

Pattaya —A Thai man in Pattaya was arrested around midnight on Thursday, March 28th, for erratic behavior and trying to stab a municipality officer. The Pattaya City Special Affairs Radio Center was notified of the man at 00:06 AM and immediately dispatched officers to the scene at the flyover on Sukhumvit Road at the entrance of the Father Ray Foundation. Upon arrival, officers found a Thai man, whose name could not be immediately identified, acting erratically and speaking incoherently. The man in his 30s or 40s was wearing a football shirt and shorts. During an attempt to apprehend him, it was reported that he tried to stab an officer with a sharp weapon. He was then taken to the Pattaya Police Station to calm down. By Aim Tanakorn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-03-29 - Discover how Cigna Insurance can protect you with a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment. For more information on expat health insurance click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Phuket teenager triggers trouble with museum shooting by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of Phuket News The Phuket authorities apprehended a 17 year old boy yesterday after he allegedly shot a 16-year-old boy near the Phuket Mining Museum. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1323558-phuket-teenager-triggers-trouble-with-museum-shooting/

The Phuket authorities apprehended a 17 year old boy yesterday after he allegedly shot a 16-year-old boy near the Phuket Mining Museum. The incident was reported to the police around 1.35am, when the young victim was targeted whilst riding his motorcycle. An unidentified man in a white pickup truck approached him and fired a shot, hitting the teenager in his left arm. Quickly after the incident, the boy returned home to Kathu where his mother rushed him to Patong Hospital for immediate medical attention. He was subsequently discharged after receiving the necessary treatment. In the early hours of yesterday, the boy and his mother reported the crime at Kathu Police Station. Following an investigation, which included a thorough examination of CCTV footage from the area surrounding the crime scene, law enforcement officers were able to identify and apprehend the culprit today. The police disclosed that the weapon used in the crime was a stolen Thai-made pistol which fired .38 caliber ammunition. The investigation was supervised by Pol. Maj. Gen. Sinlert Sukhum, Phuket Provincial Police Commander, who was assisted by Pol. Col. Akanit Phithaksat, Deputy Commander of Phuket Police; Pol. Col. Rungrit Rattanaphakdee, Superintendent of Kathu Police Station; and Pol. Col. Ekkalak Bunsaengcharoen, Superintendent of Phuket Police. Pictu re courtesy of Phuket News The arrest was executed by Pol. Lt. Col. Chayaphon. Phunaruemit, Deputy Superintendent from Kathu Police Station, accompanied by fellow Kathu Police officers. Further investigations have revealed that a dispute had taken place at the PTT gas station in Pa Khlok, involving four young boys on bikes and some other youths in a white Isuzu pickup truck, prior to the shooting. The pickup truck then followed the youngsters before the shooting ensued near the Phuket Tin Mine Museum site in Kathu. In addition to the primary suspect, the police also interrogated another five individuals connected with the incident. However, they have not disclosed whether any charges will be pressed against these individuals. The law enforcement officers confirmed that the 17 year old boy, who had fired the gun, is now in custody at the Thalang Police Station. He is expected to face a series of charges in due course. These include possession of firearms and ammunition without permission, jointly attempting to cause harm to others, and carrying firearms into towns, villages, or public roads without permission and reasonable cause. by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of Phuket News Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-29 - Discover how Cigna Insurance can protect you with a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment. For more information on expat health insurance click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

AOT Opens Grab Taxi Service at Suvarnabhumi Airport to Provide More Convenient, Fast and Safe Travel Options for Passengers File photo Bangkok, Thailand – March 28, 2024 – Airports of Thailand Public Company Limited (AOT) has partnered with GrabTaxi (Thailand) Co., Ltd. to open a Grab service center at Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1323554-aot-opens-grab-taxi-service-at-suvarnabhumi-to-provide-more-convenient-travel-options/

Bangkok, Thailand – March 28, 2024 – Airports of Thailand Public Company Limited (AOT) has partnered with GrabTaxi (Thailand) Co., Ltd. to open a Grab service center at Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK). The center will provide information, assistance, and a pick-up point for passengers and users of the Grab application. Dr. Kitipong Kitimanawat, President of AOT, said that the opening of the Grab service center is in line with the government's policy to promote Thailand's airports to be among the top 20 in the world. He said that AOT is committed to providing convenient, fast, and safe transportation options for passengers. Ms. Methinee Anwarakul, Assistant Managing Director for Passenger Business and Driver Partner Management, Grab Thailand, said that Grab is pleased to partner with AOT to provide its services at Suvarnabhumi Airport. She said that Grab is committed to providing a safe and reliable transportation option for passengers. The Grab service center is located on the first floor of the passenger terminal, Gate 4. It is open 24 hours a day. Passengers can use the Grab application to call a Grab taxi, Grab car, or Just Grab. They can then pick up their ride at the designated pick-up point. AOT plans to expand the Grab service to other airports in its network in the future**. airportthai.co.th

Morning Fire Damages Pattaya Luxury Hotel, No Injuries By Aim Tanakorn Pattaya —A fire broke out at a luxury hotel’s storage room in Pattaya around 10 AM on Thursday, March 28th, 2024. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1323552-morning-fire-damages-pattaya-luxury-hotel-no-injuries/

Pattaya —A fire broke out at a luxury hotel’s storage room in Pattaya around 10 AM on Thursday, March 28th, 2024. Crews of firefighters rushed to the hotel, whose name was withheld in light of the ongoing investigation, located on Soi Pattaya 10, Nongprue, Banglamung, Chonburi. On their arrival, the team was met with thick smoke billowing from the fire source in the room where the hotel used to store maintenance equipment. Hotel guests already escaped the building, and luckily, there were no reports of injuries. The firefighters blocked onlookers from entering the area and began spraying water into the fire. Within minutes, the flames were quelled but not before it destroyed the whole room along with the equipment. By Aim Tanakorn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-03-29 - Discover how Cigna Insurance can protect you with a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment. For more information on expat health insurance click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Youth gang violence in Pattaya escalates over jeans by Nattapong Westwood Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Violence erupted in Pattaya South at Laem Bali Hai Pier when a gang of approximately 30 youths descended on the area, wielding knives and seeking retribution over a pair of jeans. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1323551-youth-gang-violence-in-pattaya-escalates-over-jeans/

Violence erupted in Pattaya South at Laem Bali Hai Pier when a gang of approximately 30 youths descended on the area, wielding knives and seeking retribution over a pair of jeans. The confrontation left two young men injured, with one unconscious and the other with a severe head wound, prompting an urgent response from rescue services and local officials. Upon arrival at the scene, emergency services discovered a sizable group of teenagers, both male and female, approximately 10 in number, standing watch over the injured. Wanarach, a 19 year old, suffered a knife slash to the head, resulting in a serious wound with blood covering his face. Another victim, 20 year old Wachirawit was found unconscious after being beaten. Rescue workers administered first aid before urgently transporting both to the hospital. Inquiring into the cause of the incident, Wanarach disclosed that the attackers were friends of the individual from whom he had agreed to purchase a pair of trendy jeans for 600 baht, with payment arranged for the end of the month. However, the friends of the jeans’ owner took offence for reasons unknown and used the jeans transaction as a pretext to initiate the confrontation, claiming a miscommunication, reported KhaoSod. The group, numbering over 30, then launched their attack, resulting in the injuries sustained, until authorities were notified and intervened. In related news, a quiet neighbourhood in East Pattaya erupted into chaos as a gang of 10 teenagers unleashed a pellet gun frenzy, with one resident narrowly escaping serious injury. A group of teenagers stormed a residence nestled in Soi S.R., Nong Pla Lai Sub-district, East Pattaya, on March 17, firing a pellet gun indiscriminately. In other news, a 55 year old man was physically assaulted by a group of teenagers in Nakhon Ratchasima, sparking outrage from his daughter who demanded justice and called for witnesses. The incident occurred on Wednesday, March 13 at approximately 3.30am, during the final night of the Thao Suranari victory celebration in the Korat region. by Nattapong Westwood Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-29 - Discover how Cigna Insurance can protect you with a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment. For more information on expat health insurance click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Panpree plans Japan trip for talks on visa exemption Foreign Minister Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara will soon visit Japan to hold talks regarding reports that Japan may cancel the visa-free privilege for Thai travelers due to the increasing number of Thais overstaying their allowed time. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1323550-panpree-plans-japan-trip-for-talks-on-visa-exemption/

Foreign Minister Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara will soon visit Japan to hold talks regarding reports that Japan may cancel the visa-free privilege for Thai travelers due to the increasing number of Thais overstaying their allowed time. He said today that, while he is concerned about the reports, Japan has the right to revoke the visa exemption for Thais if many of them break their laws, in the same way as Thailand revokes the visas of foreign tourists who do so when in Thailand. As far as he knows, the foreign minister said, only a handful of Thais have broken the law while in Japan and he will ask his Japanese counterpart not to cancel visa exemption for Thai travellers. Regarding the European Union’s Schengen visa, the foreign minister said that talks are still under way and he has no idea how long it will take for an agreement to be reached. Full story: Thai PBS 2024-03-29 - Discover how Cigna Insurance can protect you with a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment. For more information on expat health insurance click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe