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PM Paetongtarn Angrily Denies Alleged Family "Country Deal" Picture courtesy of Amarin TV Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra faced a grilling from reporters today over an impending no-confidence debate, with speculation rife about a supposed "country deal" favouring her family. The debate, anticipated to take centre stage from Monday to Tuesday, looms over the 24-25 March session with opposition leaders keen on unearthing any potential malfeasance linked to the influential Shinawatra clan. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355277-pm-paetongtarn-angrily-denies-alleged-family-country-deal/

Picture courtesy of Amarin TV Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra faced a grilling from reporters today over an impending no-confidence debate, with speculation rife about a supposed "country deal" favouring her family. The debate, anticipated to take centre stage from Monday to Tuesday, looms over the 24-25 March session with opposition leaders keen on unearthing any potential malfeasance linked to the influential Shinawatra clan. Under immense scrutiny, Paetongtarn bristled at the accusations, emphatically denying the existence of any such agreement. These claims, she suggested, were speculative, lacking in any concrete foundation. "If you ask whether it’s true or not, there is none of this; who could go exchange the country," she retorted when probed about the supposed family bargain. The political tempest dwells on the premise that Paetongtarn might be little more than a figurehead, manipulated by her father, the erstwhile leader of Pheu Thai, Thaksin Shinawatra. Fuel was added to the fire with conjectures about this deal potentially enabling Yingluck Shinawatra, the former Prime Minister, to make a return to Thailand without fear of legal repercussions. Inquiry by journalists drew further defiance from Paetongtarn. She dismissed insinuations of clandestine exchanges benefiting the Shinawatra family, questioning what her family could gain from such machinations. Her father’s recent return to Thailand has, by default, shifted the spotlight back to the family, reinvigorating a partisan narrative she finds wearyingly predictable. As the verbal jousting intensifies, the actual no-confidence debate allotments delineate a prolonged showdown. The opposition holds 28 hours to argue their stance; meanwhile, the cabinet and coalition parties collectively weigh in for seven hours, while the meeting chairman presides over a two-hour cap. Proceedings kick off bright and early, with the potential to stretch into the late-night hours of Tuesday, leading into a decisive vote on Wednesday. When quizzed over her stamina to endure the lengthy session, Paetongtarn maintained an upbeat demeanour, laughing off the likelihood of the debate dragging on indefinitely. With other ministers sharing the burden of parliamentary duelling, she reassured that sleep and preparation for subsequent discussions would not be compromised. Beneath the political theatre, however, the stakes remain high. While Paetongtarn seeks to affirm her governance unaffiliated by her family legacy, opposition forces remain poised to aggressively challenge any perceived improprieties, ensuring audiences across Thailand and beyond remain keenly attuned to the outcome, reported Tha Newsroom. -- 2025-03-21

Former PM Thaksin Shinawatra Reconnects with Bangkok's Chinatown Picture courtesy of Naewna Bangkok, Thailand – In an unexpected yet nostalgic walk down memory lane, former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra made his first visit to Yaowarat Road, known as Bangkok’s Chinatown, after a lengthy absence of 19 years. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355276-former-pm-thaksin-shinawatra-reconnects-with-bangkoks-chinatown/

Ministers Deny Ties to Missing 26 Million Baht Necklace Picture courtesy of Naewna In a swirl of allegations involving an extravagant emerald and diamond necklace worth 26.4 million baht, two Thai ministers have emphatically denied possession following claims that the prized piece is in the hands of a government official. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355274-ministers-deny-ties-to-missing-26-million-baht-necklace/

Picture courtesy of Naewna In a swirl of allegations involving an extravagant emerald and diamond necklace worth 26.4 million baht, two Thai ministers have emphatically denied possession following claims that the prized piece is in the hands of a government official. The saga unfolded when renown businesswoman Wasana “May” Inthasang publicly aired her grievances over assets worth 62 million baht lent to actress Ms Arisara Thongborisut, commonly known as Due Arisara. Wasana claims that despite numerous attempts to retrieve these luxury items, including the elusive necklace, her efforts have hit a wall. The spotlight turned on ministers after Arisara suggested the necklace, part of the opulent cache, was with a minister whose first name begins with "P". However, both Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan and Labour Minister Pipat Ratchakitprakarn quickly distanced themselves from the affair, firmly stating the jewellery was nowhere in their possession. Intrigue deepened with other ministers in the cabinet of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra under scrutiny. The list includes Deputy Prime Minister/Energy Minister Pirapan Salirathavibhaga, Deputy Prime Minister/Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira, and Education Minister Permpoon Chidchob. Revelations from Wasana on the televised programme "Hone Krasea" brought the situation to light. She claimed she had entrusted Arisara with several high-value items during a period of need. Among these treasures are a Richard Mille watch valued at 13.8 million baht, a BVLGARI necklace costing 15.27 million baht, and an array of luxurious bags from the Kelly collection, priced between 2.8 million and 3.7 million baht. In a dramatic twist, Arisara tuned into the programme, acknowledging her financial woes, citing overspending and business failures. She confirmed the existence of the borrowed assets but admitted the Lotus Arts de Vivre necklace had exchanged hands and moved up to “a senior person” before reaching a minister. However, she assured viewers of her efforts to reclaim the necklace. Despite being currently in Taiwan, Arisara expressed her intention to address the matter upon her return to Thailand, vowing to report to the Crime Suppression Division. As the quest to unravel the whereabouts of the lavish necklace continues, authorities and the public remain captivated by the saga enveloping high society’s glittering assets and the corridors of power. Whether the case resolves quietly or manages to entangle yet more figures, only time will tell, reported Thai Newsroom. -- 2025-03-21

Picture courtesy of Naewna Bangkok, Thailand – In an unexpected yet nostalgic walk down memory lane, former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra made his first visit to Yaowarat Road, known as Bangkok’s Chinatown, after a lengthy absence of 19 years. Thaksin’s presence drew a significant crowd of both locals and tourists keen to capture the moment with selfies and photographs as he casually strolled amidst the bustling street markets this Tuesday evening. Accompanying Thaksin were several notable figures including Pheu Thai MP Kokaew Pikulthong and the party’s deputy spokesman, Chirawat Aranyakanon. Also in his entourage were a number of businessmen who had maintained ties with him during his self-imposed exile in Dubai. The former leader, known for his deep connections and legacies in Thai politics, dined at Chinatown Scala Shark Fin, a restaurant he reputedly favoured in past years. As Thaksin made his way through the vibrant area, he was met with enthusiastic supporters, some recalling the days when he founded the Thai Rak Thai Party in 1998. Despite its dissolution in 2007, Thaksin remains a figure of considerable interest and admiration among many Thais. Eager to engage with the community, Thaksin interacted warmly with vendors and purchased various goods, a gesture appreciated by many who remember his political legacy fondly. By evening, as the clock approached 8 p.m., he was still seen enjoying the bustling atmosphere, underscoring his appreciation for the cultural and social richness of Yaowarat. Addressing speculations surrounding the visit, Kokaew Pikulthong clarified that Thaksin’s return to Yaowarat bore no political undertones. The visit was a personal excursion, fulfilling a desire Thaksin had expressed whilst living abroad. During his time in Dubai, he had often shared his intent to revisit this vital artery of Bangkok—both to reconnect with old friends and to indulge in the vibrant local scene he remembers fondly. This visit marks a notable moment in Thaksin's life and in the social milieu of Bangkok’s Chinatown, offering a glance at a past era while engaging with the present. The event also underscores the former leader’s enduring connection with the people of Thailand, transcending time and political shifts. As he sauntered through the streets of Yaowarat, with the vibrant neon lights flickering above and the aroma of street food in the air, Thaksin’s visit was as much about personal fulfilment as it was a reminder of his unwavering popularity amongst many Thais, reflecting the complex tapestry of Thailand’s political and social narratives, reported Thai Newsroom. -- 2025-03-21

British Tourist Tricked in Pattaya Herbal Remedy Scam Pictures courtesy Facebook เรารักพัทยา A British tourist has fallen victim to a high-priced herbal remedy scam in Pattaya. On 19 March 2025, Mark Campbell, 63, reported the incident to the local police. He recounted how, while walking near a shopping centre towards South Pattaya, he was approached by two unidentified foreign men and a Thai woman at a night bazaar. They engaged him in conversation, claiming he was overweight and recommended a weight-loss remedy. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355299-british-tourist-tricked-in-pattaya-herbal-remedy-scam/

Pictures courtesy Facebook เรารักพัทยา A British tourist has fallen victim to a high-priced herbal remedy scam in Pattaya. On 19 March 2025, Mark Campbell, 63, reported the incident to the local police. He recounted how, while walking near a shopping centre towards South Pattaya, he was approached by two unidentified foreign men and a Thai woman at a night bazaar. They engaged him in conversation, claiming he was overweight and recommended a weight-loss remedy. The group persuaded Mr Campbell to buy two bottles of honey from a convenience store, then guided him to an unknown shop in Soi 13/2. There, they extolled the virtues of a health supplement allegedly containing mysterious herbs purported to aid in weight loss. Trusting their claims, Mr Campbell purchased the product for 20,000 baht and was subsequently led to withdraw cash to complete the transaction. Suspicious, Mr Campbell later contacted his partner and expressed doubts about the purchase. When his partner joined him, they realised the product did not deliver the promised benefits and was unreasonably priced. Convinced they'd been duped, they returned to file a police complaint. Police investigators went with the victim to the scene, finding the shop closed. Upon contacting neighbouring vendors, they managed to reach the shop owner, who arrived with the foreign group. After discussions, the parties reached an agreement, and Mr Campbell was refunded, peacefully resolving the incident, reported We love Pattaya Faccebook. -- 2025-03-21

Tesla Dominates Thai EV Market with Top Satisfaction Scores Pictures courtesy of Tesla & EV cars Thailand Facebook Tesla has firmly entrenched itself as the leader of Thailand's burgeoning electric vehicle (EV) market, according to a recent survey by NielsenIQ Thailand, scoring an impressive 890 in consumer satisfaction. This outcome emerged from the Electric Vehicle Ownership Satisfaction (EVOSS) study, which evaluated satisfaction among owners of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355273-tesla-dominates-thai-ev-market-with-top-satisfaction-scores/

Pictures courtesy of Tesla & EV cars Thailand Facebook Tesla has firmly entrenched itself as the leader of Thailand's burgeoning electric vehicle (EV) market, according to a recent survey by NielsenIQ Thailand, scoring an impressive 890 in consumer satisfaction. This outcome emerged from the Electric Vehicle Ownership Satisfaction (EVOSS) study, which evaluated satisfaction among owners of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs). Manenatta Jirasevijinda, Senior Director of Automotive Industry Insights for NielsenIQ Thailand and Japan, shed light on the study's evaluation process. The EVOSS study takes into account several critical factors affecting customer satisfaction, such as driving experience, ownership costs, convenience of charging, after-sales service, and the efficacy of in-vehicle technology. Utilising a 1,000-point scale, the study offers insight into the levels of satisfaction experienced by EV owners. Across Thailand, the average satisfaction score for EV ownership has been recorded at 880 points—with home charging convenience scoring the highest at 895 points. This indicates substantial satisfaction with charging accessibility and ease of use, with 84% of surveyed owners primarily charging their vehicles at home. Conversely, ownership costs, encompassing electricity expenses, maintenance fees, and vehicle prices, scored the lowest at 863 points. The study further revealed key factors driving EV purchase decisions: design appeal (61%), driving performance (59%), quality and reliability (58%), and driving range (52%). Notably, a majority of Thai EV owners purchase these vehicles as additional rather than replacement cars, reflecting varied usage needs. Tesla notably surpassed its competitors through excellence in several key areas: safety and technology (scoring 905), driving enjoyment (899), quality and reliability (894), and driving range (883). These robust scores contributed to Tesla achieving the highest Net Promoter Score (NPS) of 81, signifying strong brand advocacy and consolidating its leading position in the Thai EV market. The significance of maintaining customer confidence was highlighted by Manenatta, who emphasised the need for automakers to manage dissatisfaction and provide transparent information, particularly concerning driving ranges. These findings, initially reported by The Nation, offer valuable insights for automakers to refine their products, enhance after-sales services, and meet the increasing demand for EVs in Thailand. Between October and November last year, NielsenIQ conducted this study with 1,060 BEV/PHEV owners participating through both online surveys and in-person interviews. These comprehensive findings can guide automakers in tapping into Thailand's growing EV market, with Tesla setting the benchmark for satisfaction levels and market leadership, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-21

Thai Deputy PM Phumtham Reassures Uyghurs in Xinjiang Visit Picture courtesy of Thai Rath In what many view as a poignant gesture, Thailand's Deputy Prime Minister, Phumtham Wechayachai, recently travelled to the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region. His visit was marked by an apology for the prolonged detention of some Uyghur individuals in Thailand, emphasising that the intention was always to reunite these individuals with their families back home. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355243-thai-deputy-pm-phumtham-reassures-uyghurs-in-xinjiang-visit/

Israeli Tourist's Taxi 'Mishap' Resolved with 1,500 Baht in Pattaya Picture courtesy of Amarin TV In a rather unusual incident in Pattaya, Thailand, an Israeli tourist brought about an embarrassing scene after defecating in a taxi, leading to a dispute that required police intervention. Initially, the tourist offered 300 baht (approx. £6.75 or $9) in compensation, but the situation was ultimately resolved with a settlement of 1,500 baht (about £33.75 or $45). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355218-israeli-tourists-taxi-mishap-resolved-with-1500-baht-in-pattaya/

British Man Sparks Outrage in Thai Restaurant Incident Picture courtesy of Channel 7 A British man's drunken tirade at a Thai restaurant in Nakhon Ratchasima has sparked outrage, reflecting on tensions between locals and expats in the region. The incident unfolded at a dining establishment in the Phimai district after the British man's preferred alcoholic drink couldn't be supplied. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355224-british-man-sparks-outrage-in-thai-restaurant-incident/

to continue: Thailand Live Friday 21 March 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1355246-thailand-live-friday-21-march-2025/

Thailand's Smile Fades: Nation's Global Happiness Rank Falls Picture courtesy: Wikipedia Thailand's cherished title as the Land of Smiles faces jeopardy as a new global happiness ranking places the nation at 49th. While this signifies a five-place improvement from last year, Thailand still lags behind regional peers like Singapore and Vietnam, casting concerns over the nation's overall well-being. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355242-thailands-smile-fades-nations-global-happiness-rank-falls/

British Jumper’s Tragic Video Fuels Site Closure Demands Picture courtesy of The Irish Sun A haunting video depicting the tragic death of a British base jumper, Nathan Odinson, in Pattaya has reignited demands to shut down a controversial website notorious for hosting graphic death footage. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355255-british-jumper’s-tragic-video-fuels-site-closure-demands/

Picture courtesy of The Irish Sun A haunting video depicting the tragic death of a British base jumper, Nathan Odinson, in Pattaya has reignited demands to shut down a controversial website notorious for hosting graphic death footage. Odinson, aged 33, died last year when his parachute failed during a leap from a 29-storey tower. Captured by a Thai friend, the disturbing footage transitioned from local social media to a site infamous for depicting real-life horror. Ed Harrison, Odinson’s bereaved brother, has publicly admonished the community that circulates such videos, questioning the empathy of those who would share videos of their own loved ones' tragedies. This controversy comes at a crucial moment as the UK's regulator, Ofcom, is granted strengthened authority through the Online Safety Act to clamp down on unlawful content. Yet, closing the site poses considerable hurdles. Originating from the US, the website operates under a cloak of anonymity with over three million users. It has previously been associated with radicalised individuals and shocking acts of violence. The site's administration team claims it acknowledges governmental alerts and promises earnest consideration of Ofcom's requests. Critics like Mike Haines, whose brother was brutally murdered by ISIS in 2014, argue that official responses are insufficient. He describes the site as intoxicating, potentially indoctrinating viewers into increasingly dangerous pursuits. His plea emphasises the risk every moment the site remains operational poses, particularly to young people. The site doesn't merely host footage of Odinson’s fatal jump. It also houses videos from real-life tragedies, contributing to its sinister reputation. Murderers and other criminals, like US school shooters Natalie Rupnow and Solomon Henderson, alongside UK murderer Nicholas Prosper, are known to have been users of the site. Dr Olivia Brown, an expert on radicalisation, warns that regular exposure to violent material could desensitise individuals, making extreme acts seem viable to those emotionally or mentally susceptible. Despite Ofcom’s declared resolve to act, the website’s jurisdiction and faceless operation complicate enforcement efforts. The demand for its closure remains a poignant topic as authorities grapple with balancing internet freedoms against societal safety and moral responsibility. The complex challenge of effectively shutting down such an enigmatic online hub continues to spark debate, echoing the grief and frustration of those like Odinson’s family, determined to prevent further harm, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-20

Pattaya Workers Rescued After Hour-Long Lift Ordeal Picture courtesy of AEC TV Online In Pattaya, a normal workday spiralled into chaos for three construction workers when an elevator malfunction trapped them for over an hour. Their ordeal, filled with sweating and panicked cries for help, finally concluded as rescue teams arrived just in the nick of time. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355253-pattaya-workers-rescued-after-hour-long-lift-ordeal/

Picture courtesy of AEC TV Online In Pattaya, a normal workday spiralled into chaos for three construction workers when an elevator malfunction trapped them for over an hour. Their ordeal, filled with sweating and panicked cries for help, finally concluded as rescue teams arrived just in the nick of time. The incident unfolded yesterday evening, sending shockwaves through Soi Arunothai in the Bang Lamung district of Chon Buri. At 6.16pm, an urgent call was placed to Pattaya City’s Disaster Prevention Centre, reporting that three workers were stranded inside a malfunctioning lift. The unfortunate trio, identified as 49-year-old Thanayaporn, 54-year-old Samruay, and 55-year-old Bunyasri, had just wrapped up their painting duties on the 11th floor of a building. Disaster struck during their descent when the elevator abruptly halted between the second and third floors, leaving the workers trapped in a nerve-wracking limbo. For more than an hour, they sought to signal for help, desperately pressing the emergency buttons, hammering on the doors, and shouting into the void—yet, their pleas seemed unheard. The atmosphere within grew increasingly stifling, and panic began to take hold. "We were going up from the 11th floor when the elevator stalled," recounted Bunyasri. Faced with the gravity of the situation, he managed to call his son, imploring him to alert the emergency services to their plight. Reacting swiftly, the Pattaya City Disaster Prevention Centre dispatched a dedicated rescue team, armed with hydraulic equipment crucial for prying open the jammed elevator. Arriving with urgency and professionalism, the rescue workers evaluated the scenario and immediately reassured the trapped men that help was imminent. Employing hydraulic pry tools with precision, rescuers painstakingly forced the elevator doors open, prioritising the safety of those inside. After a tense hour-long operation, the doors finally budged, allowing the workers to be pulled to safety. Despite the harrowing experience, all three emerged unharmed—a significant relief following their exhaustive confinement. Their escape not only highlights the critical response of Pattaya's emergency services but also serves as a potent reminder of the everyday risks endured by workers. As they look to recover from this frightful episode, Thanayaporn and his team are undoubtedly grateful for the timely intervention that returned them to solid ground and safety, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-20

Bangkok Grapples with Alarming Air Pollution Levels Picture courtesy of Smart Air In a worrying development, Bangkok, Thailand has been ranked eighth among the world’s most polluted cities, with an Air Quality Index (AQI) rating of 141, according to the latest report from IQAir. This classification falls into the category of "Unhealthy for sensitive groups," sparking renewed health concerns, particularly for children, the elderly, and those with respiratory issues. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355251-bangkok-grapples-with-alarming-air-pollution-levels/

Picture courtesy of Smart Air In a worrying development, Bangkok, Thailand has been ranked eighth among the world’s most polluted cities, with an Air Quality Index (AQI) rating of 141, according to the latest report from IQAir. This classification falls into the category of "Unhealthy for sensitive groups," sparking renewed health concerns, particularly for children, the elderly, and those with respiratory issues. The Air Quality Index, or AQI, is a measure used universally to communicate how polluted the air currently is or how polluted it is forecast to become. The index spans from 0 to over 300, with accompanying descriptors such as "Good," "Moderate," "Unhealthy," and "Hazardous" to provide guidance on the potential health effects of air quality levels. The global snapshot of air pollution today (March 20, 8am, IQAir) places the following cities in the top spots: Kathmandu, Nepal leads the pack with an AQI of 188. Delhi, India follows with 176. Lahore, Pakistan registers 156. Algiers, Algeria at 155. Hanoi, Vietnam also with 155. Dhaka, Bangladesh records an AQI of 151. Dubai, UAE notes 143. Bangkok, Thailand with 141. Wuhan, China reports 138. Warsaw, Poland at 132. Bangkok's placement alongside cities such as Dubai and Hanoi illustrates a regional struggle with air pollution exacerbated by urbanisation and industrial growth. Raising domestic alarm, several other Thai regions exhibit even poorer air quality. Notably: Samut Songkhram, Thailand records an AQI of 163, topping Thailand's list of worst affected areas. Nakhon Pathom, Thailand at 156. Saraburi, Thailand at 153. Samut Sakhon, Thailand at 149. Phra Pradaeng, Samut Prakan and Bang Sao Thong, Samut Prakan both with an AQI of 146. Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand at 143. Bangkok, Thailand at 141. Phetchabun, Thailand at 140. Samut Prakan, Thailand at 132. Air pollution is gauged by the presence of six primary pollutants, including PM2.5, PM10, ozone, carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, and sulphur dioxide. PM2.5 particles, in particular, pose a severe threat as they are small enough to penetrate the lungs and enter the bloodstream, potentially leading to respiratory disorders, heart disease, and other health complications. Amid concerning pollution levels, Bangkok's residents are advised to take preventative measures such as wearing masks, curtailing outdoor activities, and employing air purifiers indoors. As of now, comprehensive government strategies to tackle this escalating issue remain absent, leaving the city engulfed in its toxic haze. Adding to the woes, the Thai Meteorological Department warns of summer storms affecting much of Thailand, including regions like Phra Pradaeng, Samut Prakan. A recent high-pressure system from China has led to a slight temperature dip, strong winds, and the possibility of thunderstorms, prompting residents to prepare for sudden weather shifts while farmers should safeguard their livelihoods against potential climatic impacts, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-20

Phuket Readies for an Alcohol-Free Songkran Bash Picture courtesy of The PHuket News Phuket’s famed Songkran festival is returning with its unique alcohol-free twist, aiming to provide a cultural and safe celebration for all. The 11th Songkran No Alcohol Festival is scheduled for April 13, from 4pm to 10pm, on Dibuk Road, in front of Limelight Phuket and Queen Sirikit Park. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355250-phuket-readies-for-an-alcohol-free-songkran-bash/

Picture courtesy of The PHuket News Phuket’s famed Songkran festival is returning with its unique alcohol-free twist, aiming to provide a cultural and safe celebration for all. The 11th Songkran No Alcohol Festival is scheduled for April 13, from 4pm to 10pm, on Dibuk Road, in front of Limelight Phuket and Queen Sirikit Park. This year, local authorities promise a vibrant festival focusing on cultural heritage, music, and traditional rituals. The collaborative effort involves the Phuket Provincial Administrative Organisation (PPAO), the Phuket Tourism Business Association, and Limelight Phuket Shopping Mall, highlighting their dedication to offering a family-oriented experience free from the typical inebriated chaos. In a press gathering held yesterday, March 19, Vice Governor Samawit Suphanphai, accompanied by PPAO President Rewat Areerob and other local officials, outlined the festival’s goals and expectations. Their collective vision is not just to enjoy the festivities but to reduce alcohol-related accidents traditionally associated with Songkran celebrations across Thailand. The festival promises a splendid array of activities. Attendees can partake in traditional Buddhist ceremonies such as the bathing of the Buddha image and a respectful water-pouring ceremony for elders, setting a tone of reverence and goodwill. There will also be captivating performances by Siam Niramit, showcasing Thailand’s rich cultural heritage through music and dance. A sonorous feast awaits music enthusiasts with performances by bands like Octobye, 8115, Hungry Children, and Single Band, along with a performance by Aof Pongsak and his full band. The venue will also resonate with tunes spun by DJ Hut and MC Tmo. Adding to the festive spirit will be the beautified surroundings featuring Kebaya-patterned decorations, celebrating UNESCO-recognised traditional Southeast Asian attire. This dedication to highlighting cultural elements underscores Phuket’s commitment to an enriching and delightedly sober Songkran. With festivities abound, the organisers strictly enforce rules to ensure safety and enjoyment for all. Prohibitions include alcohol, kratom, smoking, weapons, and any outside food or drink. The effort is to ensure that Phuket does not reappear as a high-accident province during Songkran, as stated by Samawit. Participants are encouraged to wear traditional Thai attire or local fabrics, transforming the crowd into a sea of cultural pride and unity. This year's alcohol-free Songkran aims not only to entertain but to promote safety and cultural appreciation, ensuring the festivities remain joyful and inclusive for every family member. As the event draws near, residents and visitors alike eagerly anticipate indulging in the lively cultural expression Songkran inherently brings, minus the perils associated with alcohol consumption, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-20

Smelly Expat Skips Massage Bill, Sparks Local Chaos in Lampang Photo via Facebook/ Lampang Variety – ลำปางวาไรตี้ ข่าว,รีวิว In a peculiar turn of events in Lampang, Thailand, a foreigner recently snuck away without settling a 700 baht massage tab. Known locally as Robert, this elusive individual has now gained notoriety for slipping away from multiple businesses without paying his dues. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355249-smelly-expat-skips-massage-bill-sparks-local-chaos-in-lampang/

Photo via Facebook/ Lampang Variety – ลำปางวาไรตี้ ข่าว,รีวิว In a peculiar turn of events in Lampang, Thailand, a foreigner recently snuck away without settling a 700 baht massage tab. Known locally as Robert, this elusive individual has now gained notoriety for slipping away from multiple businesses without paying his dues. Kanthika massage shop's proprietor, Ann, shared her unpleasant experience, recounting how Robert—a man characterized by his short black hair, prominent limp, and pungent body odour—received a two-hour massage before requesting permission to use the shop's facilities. After taking a shower, he announced his lack of cash and swore to retrieve money from a nearby ATM. However, Robert refused to be accompanied, raising Ann’s suspicions. The tale took a more chaotic turn outside the shop. As Robert stepped out, he was confronted by a baht bus driver waiting for overdue payment. Initially believing the driver was hired by Robert, Ann quickly discovered otherwise—the driver had also fallen victim to Robert’s non-payment scheme earlier. Exploiting the confusion, Robert hastily left the scene, settling neither the massage bill nor the baht fare. Police at Mueang Lampang Station confirmed that Ann was not his only target. Robert's recent escapades include ordering over 10,000 baht worth of food and drinks at a local karaoke bar and then disappearing without a trace. This pattern of behaviour has left a trail of disgruntled business owners in its wake. Ann, seeking justice and hoping to alert others, reported the incident and shared her story with the media. Despite the police's keen awareness of Robert’s antics, he remains at large, prompting cautionary tales across the local business community. This situation has put businesses on high alert, wary of unassuming customers who may appear harmless but leave a significant impact on small enterprises when they abscond without paying. The massage community, often a staple of Thai tourism, finds itself recalibrating procedures to avoid such scenarios from recurring. While the search for Robert continues, this incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of due diligence, even in seemingly innocuous interactions. Ann's experience is both a warning and a rallying cry for local businesses to remain vigilant and safeguard their interests against similar ploys, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-20