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Thaksin's Debt Proposal Stirs Debate as PM Paetongtarn Defends Plan FILE PHOTO - (AP Photo/Wason Wanichakorn) Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has come to the defence of a controversial proposal put forth by her father, former premier Thaksin Shinawatra, intended to tackle Thailand's persistent household debt troubles. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355056-thaksins-debt-proposal-stirs-debate-as-pm-paetongtarn-defends-plan/

Thai Delegation Arrives in China for Uyghur Meeting amid Tensions Picture courtesy of Wikimedia Commons In a recent controversial move, Thai officials are making their way to the Xinjiang region of China, aiming to meet a select number of Uyghurs deported from Thailand. The group led by Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechachai, together with Justice Minister Tawee Sodswong and senior military officials, is set to engage with only a fraction of the deported individuals, precisely five out of the 40 sent back to China on 27th February. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355055-thai-delegation-arrives-in-china-for-uyghur-meeting-amid-tensions/

Picture courtesy of Wikimedia Commons In a recent controversial move, Thai officials are making their way to the Xinjiang region of China, aiming to meet a select number of Uyghurs deported from Thailand. The group led by Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechachai, together with Justice Minister Tawee Sodswong and senior military officials, is set to engage with only a fraction of the deported individuals, precisely five out of the 40 sent back to China on 27th February. The deportation, shrouded in secrecy and conducted under the cover of dawn, has sparked widespread criticism from international bodies. Concerns for the Uyghurs arose after the United Nations human rights experts cautioned against the risk of torture and ill-treatment that deportees might face upon their return to China. The incident has furthermore invited diplomatic repercussions, with the United States imposing visa restrictions on unnamed Thai officials, while the European Parliament has called for leveraging free trade discussions to avert future occurrences. Rights organisations have long accused Beijing of perpetrating human rights violations against the Uyghurs, a predominantly Muslim ethnic minority of approximately 10 million inhabitants in Xinjiang. China, however, sharply rebuffs these allegations, asserting that they stem from unfounded accusations by Western nations. During their visit, the Thai delegation will receive a concise briefing by representatives from the Xinjiang autonomous region and are scheduled to return home by Thursday. This comes as Thailand continues to reiterate that it procured formal assurances from China regarding the welfare of the Uyghurs. In an effort to underline transparency, Mr. Phumtham, who also holds the position of defence minister, emphasised the absence of any ulterior motives behind the delegation’s visit. According to government spokesperson Jirayu Houngsub, this visit aims to showcase Thailand's direct and honest approach, clearing any misconceptions about refugees being deported under covert agendas. Interestingly, countries like Canada and the United States had reportedly extended offers to resettle the deported Uyghurs. Despite such proposals, Thailand chose to proceed with the deportation, citing potential retaliatory measures from Beijing as a key deterrent, as explained by Russ Jalichandra, the vice minister for foreign affairs. As the Thai delegation attempts to navigate the diplomatic intricacies of this matter, observers worldwide are keenly watching, eager to see how this visit might impact future interactions between China and Thailand. The case of the deported Uyghurs continues to highlight the complex interplay between international human rights obligations and geopolitical alliances, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-03-19

FILE PHOTO - (AP Photo/Wason Wanichakorn) Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has come to the defence of a controversial proposal put forth by her father, former premier Thaksin Shinawatra, intended to tackle Thailand's persistent household debt troubles. Thaksin’s plan suggests transferring debts from banks to private corporations, a strategy designed to alleviate the financial burden on individuals without government expenditure. At a campaign event in Phitsanulok province, Thaksin, unofficial leader of the ruling Pheu Thai Party, emphasised the crippling effect of household debt. His solution involves private entities purchasing the debts, allowing debtors to repay gradually and thereby escape the credit bureau blacklist. "This would require no government funding," he argued, positing that the plan could offer a fresh financial start for many. Prime Minister Paetongtarn urged the public to see the initiative as intended for national welfare, rather than a power play. "It's an idea proposed by someone with the nation's best interests at heart. Let's not politicise it," she urged. The proposal, however, arrives amid heated political scrutiny. Paetongtarn is set to face a censure debate, where her administration's actions will be examined, including the significant influence Thaksin is perceived to retain. Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira acknowledged the merit in exploring debt restructuring, which could lower repayments via reduced interest or principal amounts. He drew parallels with the "good bank-bad bank" strategy implemented post the 1997 financial crisis, which entailed separating non-performing assets — suggesting that a similar framework could be established now. Yet, concern over the proposed approach echoes in the financial community. Thirachai Phuvanatnaranubala, a former finance minister, critiqued the suggestion, warning that the solution merely relocates debt rather than resolving its root causes. Somchai Srisutthiyakorn, an ex-election commissioner, added skepticism by highlighting the logistics of the plan. He estimated that for private firms to buy all the household debt — totalling 16.3 trillion baht last year as per Kasikorn Research Centre data — around thirty-two companies would each need over 500 billion baht. As this bold proposal stirs varied reactions, the path forward involves considerable consultations with stakeholders, including the Thai Bankers’ Association. The government’s challenge lies in balancing innovative solutions with feasible economic strategies to manage the nation’s debt crisis effectively, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-03-19

Picture courtesy of Thai Army In the wake of an extensive multinational crackdown, significant scam centres remain operative along the Thai-Myanmar border with up to 100,000 individuals thought to be entangled in their web, according to the leading Thai police general overseeing this regional effort. Thailand is spearheading a strategic initiative to dismantle these illicit hubs, which the United Nations identifies as a significant component of Southeast Asia's sprawling illegal network, raking in billions annually. Many individuals are trafficked into these centres by organised gangs. Pol Gen Thatchai Pitaneelaboot of the Royal Thai Police highlighted that early evaluations of approximately 5,000 individuals rescued from scam dens in the Myawaddy area revealed that hundreds had entered of their own volition. However, careful scrutiny is vital to differentiate between the criminals and the victims among those liberated. "Many exploit Thailand as a gateway into Myawaddy seeking work opportunities," Pol Gen Thatchai elaborated, indicating that individuals are drawn not only into scam call centres but also into online gambling and other illicit professions. His insights challenge prevailing reports suggesting workers in these scam centres were forcibly lured rather than arriving consensually. Jason Tower, an expert from the US Institute of Peace, clarified that many who willingly ventured to Myawaddy were subsequently trapped in deceitful operations, creating a murky grey area between voluntary migration and human trafficking. Some rescued individuals disclosed harrowing tales of coercion, being forced to defraud strangers by posing as romantic interests online, tricking them into transferring significant sums of money. The region's scam hubs have long operated under the radar but were thrust into the spotlight after the abduction of Chinese actor Wang Xing from Thailand in January. Following his dramatic rescue from Myawaddy, there was an eruption of social media outrage in China, prompting Beijing to engage with Thai authorities, seeking the liberation of its citizens and disruption of these deceitful operations. Despite these efforts, Pol Gen Thatchai reports that a comprehensive evaluation at the Mae Sot district checkpoints discovered no evidence of coercion among 3,600 foreigners between Thailand and Myawaddy since the Wang incident. Additionally, a batch of 260 individuals from 20 countries, repatriated in February, were also found to have travelled voluntarily, though further data from China and India is awaited to confirm trafficking claims. Even with these ongoing interventions, a colossal network still remains at large, potentially involving 50,000 to 100,000 individuals, Pol Gen Thatchai confirmed. This artisanal network continues to operate across a narrow stretch of the Moei River. Since February, over 5,200 individuals have been extracted from these facilities, supported by efforts including cutting off utilities to the region. The primary objective of Thai authorities remains the coordination of repatriation and prosecution of criminals in cooperation with their home countries. A strong call for a multinational cooperation centre has been made to streamline investigations and support victims, as former workers linger at the Thai-Myanmar border, often financially stranded. Pol Gen Thatchai underscored the urgency of expediting repatriations, enabling continued crackdowns by Myanmar authorities and ethnic armed factions, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-03-19

File photo for reference only Phuket hoteliers remain calm amidst possible reductions in Thailand’s visa-free period from 60 to 30 days. This strategy, devised by the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, aims to mitigate the misuse of visa privileges by foreigners engaging in illicit activities. While this change may rattle some sectors, hotel operators in Phuket maintain an optimistic outlook grounded in current travel patterns. Suksit Suvunditkul, the president of the southern chapter of the Thai Hotels Association (THA), highlights that European visitors generally book two-week stays. Guests looking for extended residencies tend to prefer condominiums over hotels. Consequently, Suksit suggests the proposed visa adjustment will more significantly influence the condo rental market than the hotel industry. In fact, this move aligns with calls from the Phuket Tourist Association. Its president, Thanet Tantipiriyakit, endorses the reduction to a 30-day visa-free period, emphasising there are still other avenues available for those interested in longer stays. Data from the Immigration Bureau points to a stable demand for visa extensions, numbering around 10,000 monthly applications—a figure consistent since pre-pandemic trends. Despite these changes, Suksit argues the focus should remain on suitable measures to screen tourists. To this end, Thanet suggests enhancing the new digital TM6 form, which will become mandatory on May 1st, to aid in identifying and managing visitor activities more effectively. Proposals to link this form with technology like Google Maps could authenticate visitor addresses, while connection to existing TM30 data would help verify property hosting arrangements. Tourism officials like Siripakorn Cheawsamoot have voiced concerns regarding the visitor pool's potential impact. Last year, approximately 200,000 tourists applied for tourist visas following the 60-day scheme’s implementation. A rollback to 30 days could affect these groups who have benefited from the longer periods since July. Looking at the broader picture, the hospitality sector remains hopeful for a balanced solution that sufficiently addresses national security while catering to tourism's needs. The key lies in integrating technology with existing systems to streamline operations and ensure all parties benefit from any changes. In converting documents and processes to digital formats with intelligently integrated systems, Thailand aims to balance welcoming visitors with safeguarding against any unlawful activities—a quest for preserving the integrity of Thailand's tourism while curating an environment conducive to genuine, long-term visitors. Hence, the Phuket hotel industry looks set to weather any challenges ahead with confidence, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-03-19

Picture courtesy of Thai Government House //via Bangkok Post In a meticulously planned raid dubbed "Operation Smoke Out," police authorities in Nonthaburi launched a successful offensive against a massive underground vape supply network, seizing contraband worth approximately 130 million Thai Baht. This decisive action unfolded on Tuesday across ten different locations, including five warehouses and as many houses, revealing the scale of the smuggling operation believed to be orchestrated by a single Thai mastermind who remains elusive. The crackdown, which took eight months of diligent undercover investigation, targeted a mixture of online and physical retail outlets that operate under the radar, hawking illegal vape paraphernalia nationwide. At a seized warehouse in the Bang Bua Thong district, Pol Maj Gen Samran Nuanma, assistant national police chief, presented the findings, stressing the scope of the operation's breakthrough. "The arrests pertain only to warehouse supervisors, employed at a monthly rate of 20,000 Baht. Our primary suspect, the custodian of these illegal assets, is yet to be apprehended but remains somewhere within the country," Pol Maj Gen Samran elaborated. Police captured an astounding array of 260,000 e-cigarettes and associated products imported unlawfully via Laem Chabang port from China. These stocks were meticulously distributed among over 100 outlets nationwide, catering predominantly to online clientele. Pol Lt Gen Sayam Boonsom, head of the Metropolitan Police Bureau, chronicled the unraveling of this clandestine operation, highlighting its dependency on both digital platforms and personal networks for product dissemination. Partnering with logistics channels, the contrived merchandise made its way through postal services before being distributed to storefronts across multiple regions. Scrutiny during the briefing focused on possible internal police complicity, particularly given one warehouse’s close proximity to the Bang Bua Thong police station. However, further investigation has revealed a strategic leasing arrangement, with the property owner, an ex-officer's former spouse, purportedly unaware of the misdemeanour operated within her premises. An additional highlight of the raid was the involvement of "vapequeenzstore.com," revealed as a significant online player presently defunct and "under maintenance." A vendor by the name "Pat" has been linked to this illegal enterprise. While the operation marked a significant stride in stemming the tide of illicit vape distribution in Thailand, authorities concede that portions of the contraband might have traversed through southern corridors, suggesting a broader smuggling architecture still to be dismantled. As investigations continue, the police urge the public for vigilance and any information that could further corner this rampant enterprise, restoring order and compliance in vape product distribution within the region, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-03-19

UPDATE: Manhunt for German Accused of Assaulting Dentists in Thailand Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Police in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand, have issued an arrest warrant for a 41-year-old German man after a series of assaults on dentists in the Muang district. Identified only as Heffner, the suspect allegedly attacked multiple dentists and damaged equipment over three-and-a-half months. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354899-german-man-behind-violent-tirade-in-korat-dental-clinics/page/2/#findComment-19667900

Speeding Car Claims Life of Irishman in Thailand's Khao Lak Pictures courtesy of The Phuket News Tragedy struck last night in Khao Lak, Thailand, as a 54-year-old Irishman, Neil Christopher More Oferrall, lost his life after being hit by a speeding vehicle. The accident occurred around 9pm on Phetkasem Road near Sangsawan Resort. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355031-speeding-car-claims-life-of-irishman-in-thailands-khao-lak/

British Pedophile Captured After 27-Year Manhunt Pictures courtesy of Liverpool Echo Richard Burrows, an infamous British pedophile, has finally faced justice after evading capture for nearly three decades. He was living under a fake identity in Thailand. The 80-year-old was found guilty at Chester Crown Court of 54 horrendous crimes against young boys. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355014-british-pedophile-captured-after-27-year-manhunt/

to continue: Thailand Live Wednesday 19 March 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1355012-thailand-live-wednesday-19-march-2025/

Picture courtesy of The Nation Thailand's Alcohol Control Committee has decisively rejected the State Railway of Thailand’s (SRT) appeal to permit alcohol sales on trains and at the bustling Hua Lamphong station. This decision resonates with a longstanding policy reflecting the country's commitment to public safety and health. Chaired by Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin, the recent committee meeting witnessed the persistent denial of SRT's proposal. Panumat Yannawetsakul, the Director-General of the Disease Control Department, conveyed that the SRT must reconsider and resubmit their proposal at an upcoming session, citing concerns that require attention. The SRT's request sought to legalise alcohol sales in the air-conditioned hall at Hua Lamphong, typically reserved for events, and aboard chartered train services. However, these proposals have faced significant hurdles, primarily due to the serious repercussions of past incidents. Back in 2014, the tragic rape and murder of a young girl by an inebriated man on a train triggered a nationwide prohibition on alcohol sales in train settings—a measure aimed at preventing similar incidents. The committee’s rejection was also influenced by the ambiguous categorisations within SRT’s request concerning which trains would allow alcohol sales. This ambiguity, the committee argues, poses risks of varying interpretations that might erode public safety measures. Thus, the committee urged the SRT to clarify these details thoroughly before a resubmission could be considered. Despite the SRT's repeated attempts, this rejection marks the third denial from the Alcohol Control Committee. Alongside these developments, the committee also focused on broader alcohol-related policies. They approved an operational plan by the Public Health Ministry, intended to deploy health volunteers to manage drink-driving risks during next month's Songkran holiday, a period notorious for alcohol-related incidents. A notable shift, however, is the Prime Minister’s Office’s draft directive allowing 24-hour alcohol sales at international airports, deemed crucial for accommodating global travellers. Similarly, hotels can now apply for permission to offer round-the-clock alcohol sales, pending approval from local governors. In conclusion, while the SRT's ambition to introduce alcohol in rail settings remains unfulfilled, Thailand's broader alcohol-related policies continue evolving. These nuanced steps aim to balance commercial interests and public safety, ensuring a vigilant approach to alcohol governance amidst evolving societal needs, reported The Nation. -- 2025-03-18

Thailand Bars Alcohol Sales on Trains and at Hua Lamphong Picture courtesy of The Nation Thailand's Alcohol Control Committee has decisively rejected the State Railway of Thailand’s (SRT) appeal to permit alcohol sales on trains and at the bustling Hua Lamphong station. This decision resonates with a longstanding policy reflecting the country's commitment to public safety and health. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355010-thailand-bars-alcohol-sales-on-trains-and-at-hua-lamphong/

Bangkok to Green Eastern Suburbs with 1 Million Trees Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post In an ambitious environmental initiative, Bangkok's City Hall aims to plant over a million trees across the city's eastern suburbs by next April, as part of an effort to enhance urban greenery and improve air quality. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354979-bangkok-to-green-eastern-suburbs-with-1-million-trees/

Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post In an ambitious environmental initiative, Bangkok's City Hall aims to plant over a million trees across the city's eastern suburbs by next April, as part of an effort to enhance urban greenery and improve air quality. Governor Chadchart Sittipunt announced the project, targeting the sprawling districts of East Bangkok, with Nong Chok district set to receive the highest number of trees at 400,000, followed by Klong Sam Wa and Lat Krabang at 300,000 each. The initiative is expected to see substantial progress by the end of this year, with the bulk of planting completed across most districts. However, Klong Sam Wa's planting will wrap up in March next year, followed by Nong Chok in April. Mr Chadchart highlighted that the selected tree species will be low-maintenance and locations chosen will have ready access to water trucks, ensuring the trees' successful growth. Public areas near roads and waterways are earmarked for planting, and local communities are encouraged to participate actively in the project. However, fruit trees are deliberately excluded due to the complexity of their maintenance and the mess created by falling fruit. City Hall's Department of Environment has the task of selecting tree species appropriate for various areas, potentially enhancing the attractiveness of local tourist sites. Trees capable of filtering fine dust are particularly sought after to address air pollution concerns. In related efforts to improve the city’s infrastructure, Mr Chadchart addressed ongoing work on Asok Road's pavements. The road connects key transit systems such as the BTS Skytrain and the MRT, and is lined with offices, condos, and schools. However, the sidewalks, laid three decades ago, are now prone to subsidence. Despite delays in a separate project by the Metropolitan Electricity Authority to move power lines underground, City Hall is proceeding with pavement repairs. In the face of this delay, Mr Chadchart affirmed the city's commitment to overhauling the pavements, highlighting efforts to enhance safety and accessibility for the busy corridor. This sweeping tree-planting programme represents a significant step forward in City Hall's environmental strategy, seeking not only to green the cityscape but also to involve local communities in sustainable urban development. With a budget reportedly set in millions, the equivalent cost in Thai Baht reflects the project’s extensive scope and future benefits, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-03-18

Thai Students Rally Against Casino Legalisation Amid Crime Fears Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post In a spirited stand against the proposed legalisation of online gambling and casinos, over 50 students from Ramkhamhaeng University descended upon Government House in Bangkok with a letter to Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, voicing their condemnation of the policy. Dressed in symbolic cardboard boxes, these students aimed to highlight the financial ruin that can follow gambling. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354978-thai-students-rally-against-casino-legalisation-amid-crime-fears/

Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post In a spirited stand against the proposed legalisation of online gambling and casinos, over 50 students from Ramkhamhaeng University descended upon Government House in Bangkok with a letter to Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, voicing their condemnation of the policy. Dressed in symbolic cardboard boxes, these students aimed to highlight the financial ruin that can follow gambling. Worathep Pannen, leading the charge as president of the student council, laid into the government for pushing forward with amendments to at least three laws to legalise online gambling. Advocates for these amendments argue that by regulating an already booming illegal industry, the government can bring order and potentially generate significant revenue. However, the students fear it will open Pandora's box, turning Thailand into a hotspot for money laundering and criminal activity. Expressing these concerns, Worathep cited a 2023 report from the Center for Gambling Studies which showed a staggering 47% of Thai youth, aged between 15-25, were influenced by peers to gamble. More than 700,000 first-time gamblers reportedly tried their luck online, driven by slick advertising and endorsements from popular figures. "Gambling addiction mirrors the dangers of drug addiction," Worathep warned, stressing its capacity to derail academic performance, foster violence, and contribute to mental health struggles, including depression and suicide. With the youth holding the future of Thailand in their hands, there is anxiety about the long-term impacts of government-sanctioned gambling. The student protest, led by Worathep and his peers, laid out four clear demands. First, they urge the government to scrap plans for legalising online gambling and casinos, arguing it would harm students academically and financially while straining personal relationships. They also demand public hearings, ensuring that citizens can voice their concerns over policies that might impact future generations dramatically. Next on their agenda, the student groups are launching a petition aiming for 50,000 signatures to boost their cause. Furthermore, they appeal to student unions, youth organisations, and the broader public to join forces in blocking any attempts to legalise gambling. Finally, the students call for policies that safeguard Thai citizens, especially the youth, instead of those that might put them at risk. As Thailand sits at a crossroads, these students hope to steer their nation away from an age-old vice, insisting that authorities focus on protecting and nurturing their country’s most valuable asset – its young people, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-03-18

British Tourist Fights for Life After Tragic Accident in Phuket Picture courtesy of The Daily Mail A once-idyllic holiday on the alluring shores of Phuket has turned into a distressing ordeal for British restauranteur Ricky Eury. The 39-year-old is now facing a critical battle for survival in a Thai hospital after a devastating road accident. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354977-british-tourist-fights-for-life-after-tragic-accident-in-phuket/

Picture courtesy of The Daily Mail A once-idyllic holiday on the alluring shores of Phuket has turned into a distressing ordeal for British restauranteur Ricky Eury. The 39-year-old is now facing a critical battle for survival in a Thai hospital after a devastating road accident. On Saturday, March 15, Eury was struck by a motorcycle while crossing a bustling street in the popular tourist destination. The motorcycle was driven by Russian tourists Sergei Medvedev and his wife Svetlana, who have since been arrested. The encounter left Eury with severe injuries, including multiple skull fractures, broken ribs, a shattered nose, and life-threatening brain haemorrhage. Eury's family and loved ones are maintaining a vigil at his bedside at Bangkok Hospital Phuket. His parents, George and Annette, were shattered by the news and flew to Thailand immediately, along with his girlfriend Hannah Ryan and brother Joey. They were confronted with the terrifying possibility that Ricky might not make it through, recounts Hannah, also 39. The incident has cast a shadow over what was meant to be a dream retreat for Eury, who had been visiting Phuket since February for Thai-boxing training. Known for managing the award-nominated Gorilla Thai Kitchens in Bristol, Keury embraced fitness and the active lifestyle that the island offered. Miracles seemed far in the shadows as Eury clung to life in the hospital's intensive care unit. Yet, against all odds, he survived the crucial 36 hours post-accident, a testament to his physical strength, says his father. "The doctors say his fitness will aid his recovery. But we know the future remains uncertain," George candidly shared. Eury has recently regained consciousness, but his memory is hazy, says his mother Annette. Despite the overwhelming odds, Ricky's spirit shows signs of resilience, though he continually asks the same questions, a testament to the long road ahead. Compounding their distress is the lack of immediate access to Eury's travel insurance details, leaving the family with looming medical bills. They have already shelled out over 420,000 Thai Baht (£10,000) after Ricky was unable to confirm his insurance status due to the extent of his injuries. Solomon Wilkinson, a friend of Ricky's, has taken an initiative to raise funds through a GoFundMe page to combat the spiralling costs. Facing an indeterminate recovery journey, Eury's family vows to stay by his side for as long as needed. "Ricky comes first. We’re living day by day," affirms George, a retired fisheries manager from Devon. Despite the uncertainty, the flickers of progress seen in Ricky provide some solace. Medical professionals remain cautiously optimistic, though it is evident that healing will require considerable time and patience. As they face the challenges ahead, Ricky's family is fortified by the small victories and the undying hope for a full recovery, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-18

Bangkok Road Sweeper Becomes Online Model Sensation Picture via TikTok/ @semyonrezchikov On March 14, a TikTok video showcasing Meen's transformation from an everyday worker to an online sensation went viral, sparking comments and admiration from a global audience. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354975-bangkok-road-sweeper-becomes-online-model-sensation/

Picture via TikTok/ @semyonrezchikov On March 14, a TikTok video showcasing Meen's transformation from an everyday worker to an online sensation went viral, sparking comments and admiration from a global audience. Rezchikov, known for his social media series capturing candid street portraits worldwide, hit the streets of Bangkok with his camera, documenting the daily lives of ordinary people. Meen, dressed in her Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) uniform, became an instant hit when her solemn portrait captured the attention of thousands. The video records Meen's initial surprise turning into sheer delight as she views her Polaroid portrait, exclaiming with joy, "Beautiful." Viewers were quick to flood the video’s comments section with praise: “You’re a model, not a road sweeper,” and “You have perfect skin tone!” declared enthusiastic users, while others noted they recognized Meen from the iconic Yaowarat Road, a bustling hub within Chinatown. Beyond the digital applause, Meen's story has grabbed attention from Thai media. The local news outlet DailyNews featured her in a subsequent report on their social platforms, deepening public interest in her narrative. Picture via TikTok/ @semyonrezchikov In an interview, Meen shared her backstory: a single mother of two young boys, she transitioned from various jobs to securely working with the BMA. The role, she explained, provides essential benefits that support her family, contributing to a stable and hopeful future. The unexpected fame has not only brought Meen personal recognition but also highlighted the often-overlooked individuals who steadily keep Bangkok running smoothly. While she is surprised by the attention, Meen remains dedicated to her work and grateful for the love and encouragement she has received. As Meen continues her duties on the streets of Bangkok, her story unfolds like a modern-day fairy tale, reminding us of the beauty and potential within every person. Perhaps, beyond the glamour of modelling, Meen's newfound platform will illuminate the unseen stories of the everyday heroes who play critical roles in our community life. Whether she becomes a full-time model or not, Meen’s newfound visibility celebrates the everyday elegance and resilience woven into the fabric of Thai society, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-18

Thai Authorities Urged to Clamp Down on Buddha's "Son" Cult File photo courtesy of Bangkok Post In a gripping turn of events, former Democrat MP Tankhun Jitt-itsara has urged Thai authorities to take firmer action against a controversial cult centred around a nine-year-old boy claiming to be the son of Buddha. This appeal comes in response to the reappearance of online images depicting the young leader being revered by his followers. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354971-thai-authorities-urged-to-clamp-down-on-buddhas-son-cult/

File photo courtesy of Bangkok Post In a gripping turn of events, former Democrat MP Tankhun Jitt-itsara has urged Thai authorities to take firmer action against a controversial cult centred around a nine-year-old boy claiming to be the son of Buddha. This appeal comes in response to the reappearance of online images depicting the young leader being revered by his followers. Tankhun, leading the charge as chairman of the Santi Pracha Dhamma Club, approached the Technology Crime Suppression Division (TCSD) with incriminating evidence on Monday. Amongst his submissions is a striking image of adult adherents bowing before the young boy during a recent religious ceremony, a practice which many believe borders on exploitation. A key aspect of Tankhun's campaign arises from an earlier directive by the Juvenile and Family Court. On 28th August, the court issued a prohibition on the dissemination of images and videos of the boy's spiritual undertakings across all media platforms. Alarmingly, disregard for this court order continues as these broadcasts have reappeared, potentially flouting legal restrictions. Tankhun's effort does not stop at addressing the cult's immediate activities. He has also called for a probe into the role of a prominent actress who publicly supported the group on Facebook on 7th March. Her posts, which seem to lend credibility to the boy's controversial claims, may constitute complicity, as per Section 86 of the Criminal Code. Additionally, there are concerns regarding potential violations of children’s rights. In a bid to broaden the crackdown, Tankhun has forwarded his concerns and evidence to Thailand's Ministry of Social Development and Human Security, as well as the National Office of Buddhism (NOB). An earlier ruling by a court in Surat Thani had placed restrictions on the boy's activities, mandating his parents to cease allowing him to preach and to seek psychiatric evaluation for the child, whom they allege possesses telepathic abilities. The ongoing saga highlights the tension between spiritual expression and child welfare, raising significant questions about the safeguarding of minors in religious contexts. With the case attracting widespread attention, the baht (฿) equivalent of approximately THB 1,000,000 is expected to be scrutinised among aficionados of such cults, indicating the fiscal implications for followers financially investing in the group. As Tankhun continues to lobby for stringent enforcement of the law, the nation watches closely to see how the authorities will navigate this complex intersection of faith, legality, and child protection, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-03-18

Thaksin Dismisses US Sanctions Over Uyghur Deportations Picture courtesy of Thai Rath In a recent development stirring political dialogue, former Thai prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra has downplayed the United States' decision to impose visa restrictions on Thai officials. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354960-thaksin-dismisses-us-sanctions-over-uyghur-deportations/

Picture courtesy of Thai Rath In a recent development stirring political dialogue, former Thai prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra has downplayed the United States' decision to impose visa restrictions on Thai officials. This move by the US follows Thailand's controversial deportation of at least 40 Uyghurs to China last month, a step that has attracted significant international scrutiny. Thaksin declared on Monday that the US authorities appear to have acted on outdated information, emphasising that the deportations adhered to legal frameworks and international humanitarian norms. He highlighted the complex situation of the Uyghurs, who had been detained in Thailand for illegal entry for over a decade, with no other nation stepping up to offer asylum. "The US and Europe did not provide them refuge either," Thaksin noted. "Their country of origin is China, and with China's assurances of no prosecution upon their return, they should reunite with their families." These deportations have triggered both US sanctions and a European Parliament resolution condemning Thailand, not just for this incident, but also for issues related to the lese-majeste law. Speaking on how to engage with the US on this matter, Thaksin maintained that American authorities comprehend the intricacies, albeit acknowledging that international politics are often tangled. Despite the condemnation, he pointed out that free trade negotiations continue to be unaffected. "There's nothing to be alarmed about," Thaksin reassured. "If I'm not worried, you shouldn't be either." The former prime minister further dismissed any potential impact of the US visa sanctions on sitting Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra or other cabinet members, asserting that diplomatic efforts can ameliorate misunderstandings. "Nothing is permanent. If they don't understand, we clarify it. There's nothing to worry about," he added. When questioned about the necessity of high-level engagements to resolve the issue, Thaksin implied that dialogues can proceed through various diplomatic channels without immediate concern. Meanwhile, Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai stated on Monday that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is actively addressing international community concerns regarding the Uyghur deportations, reported Bangkok Post. As the situation unfolds, the Thai government faces a delicate balancing act between upholding international relations, maintaining its sovereignty, and handling domestic critiques. The financial implications of these diplomatic tensions also linger, as Thailand continues to prioritise stability to sustain economic growth and foreign investments, crucial for its currency valuation and resulting economic forecasts currently poised around 42 Thai Baht per 1 USD, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-03-18