webfact

Pattaya Nightclub Inspections Boost Tourist Confidence Picture courtesy of Daily News In a bid to enhance safety for tourists, police and administrative officers conducted surprise inspections at several renowned nightclubs in Pattaya on 23rd May. This operation aimed to prevent underage entry, drug activity, and firearm possession, thereby promoting a safer environment for visitors. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361607-pattaya-nightclub-inspections-boost-tourist-confidence/

Picture courtesy of Daily News In a bid to enhance safety for tourists, police and administrative officers conducted surprise inspections at several renowned nightclubs in Pattaya on 23rd May. This operation aimed to prevent underage entry, drug activity, and firearm possession, thereby promoting a safer environment for visitors. Led by Chonburi officials, including Provincial Defence Chief Lt. Col. Cholathit Leyanon and Bang Lamung District Officer Nathapop Yomjinda, the joint task force teamed up with Pattaya City Police under the leadership of Police Lt. Col. Suchat Dusadee. They carried out inspections at four venues, checking licences, employee records, and IDs of patrons. Drug tests on employees were also conducted. The inspections found no illegal activities, underage patrons, or drug presence, reflecting the strict compliance of these establishments with government regulations. Lt. Col. Cholathit highlighted that this operation aligns with the policy of Chonburi Governor Thawatchai Sritong. The collaborative efforts between provincial and district authorities and the Pattaya City Police aim to address social issues, particularly drug abuse, and ensure a secure tourism experience. Authorities urge businesses to continue adhering strictly to government measures. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Daily News 2025-05-24

Thaksin Vows to Battle Legal Woes with 'More Resources' to the Very End Picture courtesy of Nation TV Thaksin Shinawatra is allegedly deploying his vast "resources" to mitigate the impact of myriad legal challenges on himself, his daughter-turned-Prime Minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, and the Pheu Thai-led government. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361603-thaksin-vows-to-battle-legal-woes-with-more-resources-to-the-very-end/

Picture courtesy of Nation TV Thaksin Shinawatra is allegedly deploying his vast "resources" to mitigate the impact of myriad legal challenges on himself, his daughter-turned-Prime Minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, and the Pheu Thai-led government. Partisan sources suggest that despite a Supreme Administrative Court ruling demanding his fugitive sister, Yingluck Shinawatra, pay THB 10.02 billion in damages over a previous rice subsidy scheme, Thaksin remains unfazed. He's strategically leveraging his influence to explore legal loopholes and safeguard his political interests. Reports indicate that Thaksin, the de facto Pheu Thai head, refuses to vacate the political sphere despite subtle nudges from elite circles. Instead, he’s determined to secure the political future of the "puppet" Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn, with whom he's tightly allied. He’s convinced, as articulated by a partisan source, that neither he nor his daughter would succumb to external pressure by stepping down or dissolving the House. As his latest drama unfolds, Thaksin stands accused of orchestrating a 2023 hospital fake-out to escape prison time under the guise of severe illness. This elaborate ruse, involving high-level Corrections Department officials and cunning exploitation of legal loopholes, granted him an extended stay at a Police Hospital luxury wing. The court has scheduled his hearing for June 13, where he may face penalties for contempt and legal infractions tied to past corruption convictions. Despite swirling speculation about his courtroom appearance, sources insist Thaksin will remain on Thai soil while observing his trial from elsewhere. A parallel legal ordeal awaits in July regarding a lese majeste charge, which traces back to his 2015 claims linking the monarchy to the 2006 coup during an interview with a Seoul news outlet. Thaksin’s vast financial and political influence is believed to have facilitated his freedom from prison. Unofficial reports suggest he's crafted intricate backdoor deals to facilitate his desired political landscape. His efforts purportedly include the controversial exclusion of the Move Forward party from post-election arrangements and its subsequent replacement with the Pheu Thai-led coalition, comprising former political adversaries. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai Newsroom 2025-05-24

Ex-Thai PM Yingluck Condemns 10 Billion Baht Court Order, Calls It "Deeply Unjust" File photo for reference only In a striking declaration on social media, former Thai Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra has launched a powerful critique against a recent ruling by Thailand's Supreme Administrative Court. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361553-ex-thai-pm-yingluck-condemns-10-billion-baht-court-order-calls-it-deeply-unjust/

Frenchman and Russian Woman Arrested in Koh Phangan and Koh Samui Crackdown Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post In a sweeping crackdown on illegal activities involving foreign nationals in Thailand's popular southern islands, a French man and a Russian woman were apprehended by local authorities for separate offences, drawing attention to the ongoing challenges of managing expat behaviour in tourist hotspots. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361555-frenchman-and-russian-woman-arrested-in-koh-phangan-and-koh-samui-crackdown/

to continue: Thailand Live Saturday 24 May 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1361550-thailand-live-saturday-24-may-2025/

Swiss National 'David' Sentenced to Jail for Assaulting Thai Doctor in Phuket File photo In a dramatic turn of events, the Phuket Court of Appeal has reversed a previous ruling, sentencing a Swiss national to one month in prison without probation for assaulting a doctor. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361538-swiss-national-david-jailed-for-assaulting-thai-doctor-in-phuket/

Swiss National 'David' Jailed for Assaulting Thai Doctor in Phuket File photo In a dramatic turn of events, the Phuket Court of Appeal has reversed a previous ruling, sentencing a Swiss national to one month in prison without probation for assaulting a doctor. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361538-swiss-national-david-jailed-for-assaulting-thai-doctor-in-phuket/

File photo In a dramatic turn of events, the Phuket Court of Appeal has reversed a previous ruling, sentencing a Swiss national to one month in prison without probation for assaulting a doctor. The case involved Dr Tanradao Jandam, known as Dr Pai, who accused Urs 'David' Fehr, a Swiss citizen and owner of a Phuket elephant park, of kicking her in the back and hurling abusive language at her. The incident occurred on 24th February 2024 while Dr Pai was seated on the steps of a luxury villa at Yamu Beach, in the Pa Khlok area of Thalang District, Phuket. Initially, the Phuket Provincial Court dismissed the charges on 3rd September 2024, citing reasonable doubt in favour of the defendant. Following this decision, Dr Pai’s lawyer, Nipit Intrasombat, lodged an appeal. In the latest development, the Court of Appeal has found the defendant guilty under Article 391 of the Thai Criminal Code, recognising the severity of the assault and imposing a one-month custodial sentence without allowing for a suspended sentence. Mr Nipit expressed his gratitude to all involved in the case, including the investigators, prosecutors, court officials, original and defence lawyers, acknowledging their dedication. He emphasised that the differing views in the case were purely based on factual and legal grounds, not personal animosity. The verdict is a vindication for Dr Pai, who persevered with patience and fortitude to seek justice. Mr Nipit noted that he undertook the appeal without charging for travel, airfare, documentation, or legal fees, understanding the sentiments of Dr Pai, the people of Phuket, and all Thais regarding this case. Reports indicate the defendant has fled the country despite the court's arrest warrant. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Matichon 2025-05-23

True Network Outage Due to Power Failure, Compensation Announced Picture courtesy of 3Plus NEWS On 23 May, mobile services from network provider True went down unexpectedly for several hours due to a significant outage. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361520-true-network-outage-due-to-power-failure-compensation-announced/

Picture courtesy of 3Plus NEWS On 22 May, mobile services from network provider True went down unexpectedly for several hours due to a significant outage. TrueMove H has since apologised for the disruption, which occurred on 22 May around 10:00 AM and impacted a portion of its users. Service began to resume from 11:30 AM, with both voice and data functionalities now restored to normal. An initial investigation revealed that the outage stemmed from a power failure at a core network centre, crucial to maintaining overall service. True’s engineering team acted swiftly, diligently investigating the cause and reallocating users to alternative network centres to minimise impact and restore services promptly. To compensate affected users for the inconvenience, True is offering free 10GB of data and 100 minutes of free calling, available for use within 24 hours. Customers will receive an SMS detailing the compensation. The company has also briefed Thailand's National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC), providing a preliminary report of the situation and the compensation measures for customers. Adapted by ASEAN Now from 3Plus NEWS 2025-05-23

Thailand to Host Grand "Diwali 2025" to Boost Indian Tourism Picture courtesy by Khokarahman - own work, CC BY-SA 4.0 Thailand is set to shine with the "Diwali 2025" festival this October, a move designed to attract over 500,000 Indian tourists and position the country as a global festival hub. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361518-thailand-to-host-grand-diwali-2025-to-boost-indian-tourism/

Picture courtesy by Khokarahman - own work, CC BY-SA 4.0 Thailand is set to shine with the "Diwali 2025" festival this October, a move designed to attract over 500,000 Indian tourists and position the country as a global festival hub. Chaired by Dr Surapong Suebwonglee and Nalinee Taveesin, key Thai officials met with Nagesh Singh, India's Ambassador to Thailand, and top Indian business leaders on 21 May 2025 to finalise plans. The festival will be inspired by the success of Songkran, featuring a spectacular light and sound parade, cultural performances, a Global Fair, and a fusion food festival. Highlights also include vibrant decorations, fashion shows, and concerts, exemplifying Thai-Indian cultural collaboration. Indian representatives praised Thailand’s commitment to strengthening cultural ties and economic relations. Nalinee Taveesin highlighted the festival's role in attracting high-spending Indian tourists known for their repeat visits. Dr Surapong Suebwonglee noted that Diwali 2025 is a strategic venture to boost tourism and the economy, aspiring to make it as grand as Songkran and establish it as a key regional event. The Indian Ambassador underscored Thailand as a top choice for Indian visitors, with 2.1 million arrivals in 2024, facilitated by 13 direct airlines between the two countries. Diwali, marking the Indian New Year and celebrating goddess Lakshmi, is a major Hindu festival celebrating new beginnings. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Nation 2025-05-23

Thai PM Visits Two London Venues to Boost Soft Power Picture courtesy The Nation Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has embarked on a mission to boost Thai soft power in Europe, visiting a Muay Thai gym and a large Asian superstore in London. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361514-thai-pm-visits-two-london-venues-to-boost-soft-power/

Picture courtesy The Nation Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has embarked on a mission to boost Thai soft power in Europe, visiting a Muay Thai gym and a large Asian superstore in London. Starting her visit at Fight City Gym in Moorgate, she highlighted the global appeal of Muay Thai, noting its strong brand identity. London alone boasts over 50 of these gyms, part of the 4,000 martial arts centres spread across the UK. The government aims to enhance this reach by creating an international Muay Thai curriculum, simplifying visa processes for instructors, supporting the overseas establishment of gyms, and setting certification standards. In the afternoon, Paetongtarn visited the Wing Yip Superstore in Cricklewood, a major UK Asian retail chain. This store imports Thai products worth around 500 million baht annually, including a vast selection of foods. The Prime Minister emphasised the importance of making Thai ingredients globally accessible, with a particular focus on processed fruits. She also highlighted the potential for Thai farmers to process surplus fruit, providing year-round income. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Nation 2025-05-23

Israeli Man Arrested for Using Fake Passport at Suvarnabhumi Airport Picture courtesy of INN News Immigration police at Suvarnabhumi Airport apprehended an Israeli man attempting to leave Thailand using a fake passport. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361507-israeli-man-arrested-for-using-fake-passport-at-suvarnabhumi-airport/

Picture courtesy of INN News Immigration police at Suvarnabhumi Airport apprehended an Israeli man attempting to leave Thailand using a fake passport. The arrest occurred when police officer Sgt. Jaraya Akkhad discovered the fraudulent document while checking passports at checkpoint DW8. The suspect, identified as Mr. Cohen, an Israeli born on 17 December 198X, was scheduled to fly home on EL AL flight LY82, departing at 22:40. Biometric scans revealed discrepancies between the passport and the suspect's fingerprints, which matched another Israeli named Mr. Kakon, born on 29 January 198X. Further investigation by the authorities, in collaboration with airline personnel, confirmed the passport was indeed counterfeit. The document lacked the security features standard in Israeli passports. The suspect was handed over to Immigration Division 2 for legal proceedings, and the incident was officially documented. Police Lieutenant General Panumart Boonnilaks and Police Major General Thanit Thaiwacharamas have ordered stricter entry and exit checks to ensure national security. Adapted by ASEAN Now from INN News 2025-05-23

Defence Minister Keeps Alarm Bells Ringing: Coup Not Off the Table Thai Army soldiers in Chiang Mai, 2014 | File photo by Takeaway - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, Thailand’s Defence Minister, Phumtham Wechayachai, has raised eyebrows with an unvarnished warning about the possibility of future coups. Ten years since the 2014 power grab, Phumtham is urging all to study the past to fortify democracy. Clear-eyed about history, he insists no guarantees can be given against a repeat. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361506-defence-minister-keeps-alarm-bells-ringing-coup-not-off-the-table/

Thai Army soldiers in Chiang Mai, 2014 | File photo by Takeaway - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, Thailand’s Defence Minister, Phumtham Wechayachai, has raised eyebrows with an unvarnished warning about the possibility of future coups. Ten years since the 2014 power grab, Phumtham is urging all to study the past to fortify democracy. Clear-eyed about history, he insists no guarantees can be given against a repeat. Reflecting on modern military leadership, Phumtham concedes they exhibit progressive thinking and grasp the bigger picture globally. This perception, however, doesn’t eliminate the coup threat entirely. Cautioning political players, he underscores devotion to democratic frameworks and mutual respect across political divides. Phumtham paints a picture of a Thai society gradually cherishing its democratic entitlements, which he hopes could stymie future coup attempts. He champions peaceful and sustainable solutions through vigilant and shared understanding to avert military interventions. Parliamentarian Parit Wacharasindhu chimes in, drawing attention to eleven democracy-stumbling blocks, spotlighting the Senate and its controversial election process. He argues these systemic issues find roots in the 2017 constitution, under scrutiny for potential election fraud. In sum, while Phumtham expresses cautious optimism about Thailand’s democratic roadmap, he lays down a reminder of vigilance. With society slowly embracing democratic values, he advocates for resolving disputes within the established systems, steering clear of coups that could disrupt Thailand’s evolving democratic journey. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-05-23

The Thai Baht Paradox: Currency Climbs as Economy Falters File photo In a striking turn of events, the Thai baht has recently surged against the US dollar, reaching 32.70 baht per dollar, raising concerns for Thailand's fragile economy. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361494-the-thai-baht-paradox-currency-climbs-as-economy-falters/

File photo In a striking turn of events, the Thai baht has recently surged against the US dollar, reaching 32.70 baht per dollar, raising concerns for Thailand's fragile economy. Despite appearing strong, this appreciation is not driven by domestic growth but by global factors like geopolitical tensions and rising gold prices. Experts warn this trend poses significant challenges, especially for the Thai export sector, a crucial component of the country's economic growth. Kanchana Chokpaisansilp from Kasikorn Research Center attributes the baht’s strength to international gold price increases and a weakened US dollar due to domestic uncertainties and Moody's recent downgrade. These factors contribute to shifting capital markets that favour the Thai currency but pose a policy conundrum for authorities pegged with managing economic fragility without concrete domestic stimuli. Sanguan Jungsakul from Krungthai Bank highlights the baht's unique position, appreciating rapidly due to short-term speculative flows rather than solid economic fundamentals. This, coupled with the surging gold prices, up by more than 27% year-to-date, has resulted in increased demand for baht globally, despite similarities with other Asian currencies that possess larger dollar reserves. The appreciating baht also signals a rise in foreign reserves, now tottering on the previous high of USD 259 billion. Analysts anticipate potential interventions by the Bank of Thailand to steady the currency’s volatility. Wachirawat Banchuen from Siam Commercial Bank points to external factors like rising oil prices and potential US-Japanese negotiations influencing this trend, while noting a lack of domestic recovery to justify it. Despite a seemingly robust currency, foreign investment flows into Thailand show little upward trend, impacting exporters unfavourably. Kriengkrai Thiennukul from the Federation of Thai Industries raises concerns about the baht’s volatility affecting export prices and competitiveness. Exporters are forced to absorb currency fluctuation losses, rendering long-term sustainability precarious without market adjustments. Wisit Limluecha from the Thai Chamber of Commerce criticises the baht’s appreciation as misaligned with real economic performance. Suggestions include increasing cross-border trade in baht and utilising multiple currency agreements to reduce volatility exposure. While these strategies offer potential relief, significant costs to businesses remain inevitable, reducing profit margins and competitiveness. As the baht surges unexpectedly without substantial domestic support, Thailand faces the urgent task of navigating a volatile currency environment that threatens to destabilise an already fragile economic outlook. The juxtaposition of the strong baht against weak economic fundamentals paints a challenging picture for Thailand as it seeks to sustain its export sector amidst global financial fluctuations. Adapted by ASEAN Now from [source] 2025-05-23

Thai Police Face Scrutiny Over New Patrol Motorbike Purchase Picture courtesy of Thai Rath The Thai police force's decision to phase out older patrol motorbikes in favour of new models has ignited debate online. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361490-thai-police-face-scrutiny-over-new-patrol-motorbike-purchase/

Picture courtesy of Thai Rath The Thai police force's decision to phase out older patrol motorbikes in favour of new models has ignited debate online. The introduction of the Honda ADV-160 scooters has been met with criticism, as many netizens argue existing CBR300 bikes at local stations are still serviceable. Instead, they suggest the allocated funds should be used for maintenance and part replacements, which would be more cost-effective. On 22 May 2025, Wasin Sirikiattikul, advisor to the chairman of Thailand's police committee in the House of Representatives, shared details of the procurement project on his Facebook page. He highlighted the patrol unit's mission to enhance crime prevention, anti-narcotics efforts, and public safety. Picture courtesy of Thai Rath The Honda ADV-160, an adventure scooter, is considered for its agility in urban areas, crowded communities, and rough roads. Its compact size, flexible suspension, and economical engine make it ideal for narrow alleys and heavy traffic, although less suitable for high-speed pursuits. Critics primarily focus on the budget implications, pointing out the high cost of procurement and logistical concerns, arguing that the decision-makers purchasing the bikes are not those who will be using them. This echoes broader frustrations that field operatives simply have to adapt to decisions made by higher-ups. Picture courtesy of Thai Rath The procurement process involves an e-bidding method to acquire 14,442 units, with a budget totaling approximately 1.88 billion baht. The decision aims to replace ageing motorbikes over seven years old, which have become inefficient for 24-hour patrol duties as mandated by the government's urgent policies on crime and drug prevention. Despite these decisions, the criticism highlights a need to consider practicality and budget effectiveness, suggesting that existing resources could be better utilised and budgets spent more prudently. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai Rath 2025-05-23

Thaksin to Address International Drug Crimes in Keynote Speech Picture courtesy of Daily News Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra is set to make a significant reappearance on the public stage with a keynote speech tackling international drug crimes. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361486-thaksin-to-address-international-drug-crimes-in-keynote-speech/