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3 foreign men attack Phuket tuk tuk driver over parking dispute by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ Phuket Times ภูเก็ตไทม์ and ThaiRath Three foreign men attacked a Thai tuk tuk driver in a gang assault on Sunday, February 2, following a parking dispute on a road in Phuket, leaving the victim with serious injuries. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350770-3-foreign-men-attack-phuket-tuk-tuk-driver-over-parking-dispute/

Photo via Facebook/ Phuket Times ภูเก็ตไทม์ and ThaiRath by Petch Petpailin Three foreign men attacked a Thai tuk tuk driver in a gang assault on Sunday, February 2, following a parking dispute on a road in Phuket, leaving the victim with serious injuries. The injured tuk tuk driver, Narin, filed a complaint against the three foreign attackers at Patong Police Station and shared details of the incident with the Facebook news page Newshawk Phuket yesterday, February 3. The attack occurred at around 3am outside Jungceylon Mall in the Patong area of Phuket. Narin told the media that he noticed a foreign motorcyclist parked his vehicle behind his tuk tuk. As he needed to reverse, he approached the foreign man and asked him to move his motorcycle. However, the foreign man refused and became enraged, revving his engine and provoking Narin to fight him. Narin stated that he ignored the foreigner’s actions and remained parked, waiting for him to leave. The situation escalated when the foreigner called two friends to the scene, and together they attacked Narin. They strangled him and struck his head and face with a glass bottle. Narin’s colleague intervened, engaging in a brief altercation before the three foreigners fled the scene. Photo via Facebook/ Phuket Times ภูเก็ตไทม์ Narin suffered a serious head wound, requiring six stitches. His nasal bone was reportedly broken after being hit with the glass bottle. He remains in hospital, while the three attackers remain at large. Dashcam footage and pictures of the suspects were shared on Thai social media. Narin urged anyone who encountered the three foreigners to report their whereabouts to the police or contact him at 098-213-1332 with any useful information. Many Thai netizens expressed concern over Narin’s condition and called for Thai police to closely monitor the behaviour of foreign tourists and enforce strict laws against them. Photo by Cecil Lee via Flickr However, some netizens pointed out that tuk tuk and taxi drivers frequently contribute to traffic congestion by parking outside the mall while waiting for passengers, often blocking other vehicles. They were therefore unsurprised that a physical altercation had occurred. Others claimed that tuk tuk drivers had previously ganged up on foreign tourists in similar incidents, arguing that a sustainable solution to the ongoing parking issues outside the mall was necessary. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-02-04

Beautician from Thailand battles British heirs for £400k inheritance by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of The Daily Mail In an explosive legal showdown fit for a soap opera, a beautician from Thailand is taking her former British lover’s sons to the London High Court, demanding her slice of their late father’s £400,000 inheritance. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350769-beautician-from-thailand-battles-british-heirs-for-£400k-inheritance/

Picture courtesy of The Daily Mail by Bob Scott In an explosive legal showdown fit for a soap opera, a beautician from Thailand is taking her former British lover’s sons to the London High Court, demanding her slice of their late father’s £400,000 inheritance. The contentious affair has captivated courtroom observers, as they watch the tug-of-war over promises, property, and pounds unfold in the British High Court. Kanokporn Nattachai arrived in London from Thailand to square up against Simon and David Burrage, sons of the late Roger Burrage, a British builder who tragically ended his life in January this year at the age of 75. According to Kanokporn, she’s owed nearly £200,000 (8.42 million baht), money she claims is based on promises made by the Surrey widower throughout their intense relationship in Thailand, where they shared a life filled with luxury and allure. Burrage embarked on a new chapter of his life when he relocated to Thailand, using his construction expertise to build an opulent three-bedroom seaside villa in Hua Hin. The luxurious abode, boasting breathtaking mountain views, sprawling grounds, a delightful outdoor pool, and enough amenities to rival any holiday resort, became the heart of their romance. Picture of the pool villa in Hua Hin courtesy of The Daily Mail The 40 year old Thai woman, now residing solo in the villa rumoured to be worth anywhere between £100,000 (4.21 million baht) and £240,000 (10.1 million baht), has laid claim to nearly half of her lover’s estate, arguing that she played a crucial role in his business and emotional landscape. In court documents, Kanokporn detailed her alleged financial entanglement with Burrage, citing a £200,000 loan she purportedly provided to support his business. She insists she’s entitled to a share of the builder’s assets, reasoning that the will fails to offer her “adequate financial provision.” Her claim sets the stage for a fierce legal struggle where glitzy romance clashes with complex estate law. However, steadfast in their pursuit of preserving their father’s wishes, Burrage’s sons, Simon and David, reject the legitimacy of Kanokporn’s demands. Their barrister, Lydia Pemberton, acknowledges their father’s generosity during his lifetime, conceding she had received gifts, including the luxurious Hua Hin villa along with support to establish her beauty parlour. They state these gestures fulfil any obligations to her, firmly embracing the view that the British man was never in a position, or inclined, to borrow from Kanokporn. Picture of Burrage and Kanokporn at the luxury villa he built in Hua Hin courtesy of The Daily Mail Central to the sons’ defence is the assertion that their father, who battled mental health issues, was especially vulnerable in his final years and that his Thai companion exploited this fragility. “The deceased was not maintaining the claimant before his passing,” argues Pemberton, dismantling the picture of a sustained romantic partnership in Burrage’s last months. Instead, she highlights a rift that supposedly materialised when Burrage left Thailand for the UK, a move Kanokporn allegedly tried to counteract by urging his return. Representing Kanokporn, solicitor Manoon Junchai presents an alternative narrative, arguing that the British builder’s promises were entrenched in their emotional bond which spanned from 2016 until his return to Surrey in 2021. He alleges Burrage portrayed their relationship as a budding business partnership tied in with romantic undertones, assuring Kanokporn financial security for their “life together.” Her solicitor further suggests the failure to honour this commitment would be unconscionable, emphasising her contributions to Burrage’s personal and professional life. Picture of Burrage courtesy of The Daily Mail Despite the interplay of claims and counterclaims about the couple’s financial arrangement, the proceedings reveal a more complex web of interactions and emotions. The Burrage brothers maintain that their father’s last will, drafted in 2006, was clear in its intentions to leave his English estate to them, not her. They portray Kanokporn’s involvement as limited to the receipt of gifts and financial enhancements, refuting her active help in his UK property ventures. Amidst these legal tit-for-tats, the court scrutinises the financial footprints and transactional history of both parties involved. Pemberton casts doubt on the Thai woman’s narrative of lending such a sizable sum, pointing out her financial independence contradicts claims of dependence on Burrage. It is highlighted that any money transferred was linked to properties held in Kanokporn’s name, due to restrictions on foreign ownership in Thailand, rather than being contributions towards Burrage’s UK business dealings, reported The Daily Mail. As legal drama continues to unfold, the brothers’ application for a “security for costs” order has garnered considerable attention. This protective measure seeks to ensure Kanokporn is financially prepared to handle their legal costs should her claim prove unsuccessful. If approved, it would require her to deposit funds upfront as a safety net. The judge, Julia Clark, is presently reviewing this request, signalling that a formal decision is forthcoming. Observers eagerly anticipate her verdict, understanding it could set a significant precedent for similar future disputes involving cross-border relationships and estate claims. Picture of Kanokporn courtesy of The Daily Mail As the saga spins ever more intricately, it evokes age-old questions concerning love, loyalty, and the legacy of promises. What remains to be seen is whether whispered assurances made under the moonlit skies of Hua Hin possess enough legal standing to reshape the life of a beautician from Thailand, or if the Burrage brothers’ interpretations of their father’s intentions will prevail, maintaining the integrity of a will crafted decades earlier. The final outcome could prove as lucrative as it is enlightening. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-02-04

US tariffs could flood Thai market with cheap Chinese goods by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of The Nation Thailand may soon be swamped with an influx of cheap Chinese imports if the United States slaps high tariffs on Chinese goods, warns former Deputy Prime Minister Surakiart Sathirathai. The country must brace itself for economic turbulence, or risk being caught off guard. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350766-us-tariffs-could-flood-thai-market-with-cheap-chinese-goods/

Photo courtesy of The Nation by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Thailand may soon be swamped with an influx of cheap Chinese imports if the United States slaps high tariffs on Chinese goods, warns former Deputy Prime Minister Surakiart Sathirathai. The country must brace itself for economic turbulence, or risk being caught off guard. Speaking at the Chula Thailand Presidents Summit 2025 at Chulalongkorn University, Surakiart cautioned that if the US tightens trade restrictions on China, surplus goods will inevitably be redirected to other countries, with Thailand a likely destination. The government, private sector, and civil society must collaborate to decide whether to embrace or resist the flood of imports. “Thailand’s future depends on its political and strategic stance in economic and geopolitical contexts.” Surakiart added that upcoming trade negotiations with Washington will go beyond tariffs and could have far-reaching consequences. Without a unified national strategy, he warned, the country could face domestic instability. Surakiart highlighted potential internal fractures, predicting that the Thai private sector may splinter due to conflicting interests, while the government could struggle to present a united front, given that different ministries, each controlled by rival political factions, oversee trade matters. To avoid chaos, he urged Thailand to appoint special government representatives to spearhead negotiations on various trade and policy issues, mirroring US congressional committees that handle matters separately. He also stressed the importance of working closely with ASEAN nations to strengthen bargaining power, particularly on sensitive issues like the treatment of Uyghur refugees and Myanmar’s political crisis, reported The Nation. “Thailand must be prepared for disruptions and rapid changes. Resilience, adaptability, and strong leadership across all sectors are critical to navigating this challenging landscape.” Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-02-04

Cool air from China brings storms and high waves to Thailand by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Ash Edmonds, Unsplash The Meteorological Department of Thailand (TMD) issued a weather warning for today, February 4, highlighting a new wave of cool air from China affecting Thailand. This results in decreased temperatures and strong winds, with five provinces experiencing severe storms and seas with waves exceeding 2 metres. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350764-cool-air-from-china-brings-storms-and-high-waves-to-thailand/

Picture courtesy of Ash Edmonds, Unsplash by Bright Choomanee The Meteorological Department of Thailand (TMD) issued a weather warning for today, February 4, highlighting a new wave of cool air from China affecting Thailand. This results in decreased temperatures and strong winds, with five provinces experiencing severe storms and seas with waves exceeding 2 metres. The moderate high-pressure system from China has spread to upper northeastern Thailand and the South China Sea. This weather pattern is causing cooler temperatures and strong winds in the northeast, with chilly to cold conditions in the north and northeast. The central region, including Bangkok and its surroundings, the east, and the south, will experience cool mornings. Mountain tops will have cold to very cold weather. Residents are advised to stay healthy due to the persistent cold and to be cautious of fire hazards due to dry conditions. The intensified northeast monsoon over the Gulf of Thailand and the south will bring increased rainfall in the lower south. The upper Gulf of Thailand will see waves about 1 metre high, with areas experiencing thunderstorms seeing waves between 1 to 2 metres. In the lower Gulf, waves will range from 1 to 2 metres, with thunderstorms causing waves over 2 metres. Mariners should exercise caution and avoid areas with thunderstorms. The current weather conditions are impacting dust accumulation, with levels in upper Thailand ranging from moderate to high and remaining stable due to moderate winds. Weather forecast The north will experience cool to cold weather with morning fog. The minimum temperatures will range from 14 to 22 degrees Celsius, and the maximum temperatures will range from 32 to 37 degrees Celsius. Mountain tops will be cold to very cold, with minimum temperatures between 5 and 13 degrees Celsius and east winds at 5 and 15 kilometres per hour. The northeast will be cool to cold in the morning with strong winds, and temperatures will drop by 1 to 3 degrees Celsius. Minimum temperatures will range from 15 to 19 degrees Celsius, and maximum temperatures from 31 to 34 degrees Celsius. Mountain tops will be cool to cold, with minimum temperatures between 9 and 15 degrees Celsius and northeast winds at 15 to 30 kilometres per hour. In the central region, the morning will be cool with minimum temperatures between 20 and 22 degrees Celsius and maximum temperatures between 33 and 35 degrees Celsius, with northeast winds at 10 to 20 kilometres per hour. The east will have cool mornings and scattered light rain, with minimum temperatures between 21 and 23 degrees Celsius and maximum temperatures between 31 and 34 degrees Celsius. Southeast winds will blow at 10 to 30 kilometres per hour, and the sea will have waves below 1 metre, rising to about 1 metre offshore. The southern region’s east coast will see cool mornings and 10% of the area experiencing rain, mainly in Phatthalung, Songkhla, Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwat. Minimum temperatures will range from 20 to 24 degrees Celsius and maximum temperatures from 30 to 32 degrees Celsius. Thunderstorms North of Nakhon Si Thammarat, northeast winds will be 15 to 30 kilometres per hour, with waves about 1 metre high and 1 to 2 metres during thunderstorms. South of Songkhla, northeast winds will be 15 to 35 kilometres per hour, with waves 1 to 2 metres high and over 2 metres during thunderstorms. The southern region’s west coast will have cool mornings with scattered light rain, minimum temperatures between 21 and 23 degrees Celsius, and maximum temperatures between 32 and 34 degrees Celsius. Northeast winds will be 10 to 30 kilometres per hour, with sea waves about 1 metre high, increasing further offshore, reported KhaoSod. Bangkok and surrounding areas will have partly cloudy skies with scattered light rain. Minimum temperatures will range from 23 to 24 degrees Celsius and maximum temperatures from 32 to 35 degrees Celsius, with east winds at 10 to 20 kilometres per hour. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-02-04

Thailand Poised to Implement Carbon Tax to Curb Emissions File photo Thailand is gearing up for the introduction of a carbon tax this month, marking a substantial step towards reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting sustainability across the nation. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350760-thailand-poised-to-implement-carbon-tax-to-curb-emissions/

File photo Thailand is gearing up for the introduction of a carbon tax this month, marking a substantial step towards reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting sustainability across the nation. This move comes on the heels of a cooperation agreement signed by Thailand's Deputy Finance Minister Paopoom Rojanasakul with PTT Plc and Bangchak Corporation Plc on Monday, aimed at bolstering awareness around carbon taxation and encouraging sustainable energy consumption. The framework for this tax, approved by the Thai cabinet two weeks ago, is currently under review by the Council of State. The envisaged carbon tax will be integrated into the existing oil tax structure, a strategy designed to shield consumers from direct impacts. Notably, this measure has been recognised by international authorities, including the European Union, for its commitment to environmental preservation. Under the new regulation, carbon tax will be calculated at a rate of 200 Baht per tonne of carbon dioxide equivalent, factored by the emission output specific to each oil type. Should oil producers achieve emission reductions below stipulated thresholds, their carbon tax liabilities will be correspondingly decreased. Adding further dimensions to this initiative, Mr. Paopoom revealed that the Excise Department is collaborating with Chulalongkorn University's Faculty of Economics, PTT Oil and Retail Business Plc (OR), and Bangchak Corporation. Their collective efforts are set to encourage a transition to low-carbon energy consumption and enhance public understanding of the carbon tax's role in this transition. As part of this initiative, OR is positioned to provide operational and resource support, ensuring that consumers receive real-time information about greenhouse gas reductions at PTT Stations during fuel refills. This aligns with OR's Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), particularly the "Green" aspect, aimed at encouraging a cleaner, low-carbon society. For Bangchak's Green Miles programme members, their personal contributions to greenhouse gas reduction will be highlighted as the number of trees planted, illustrated via the "Your Tree" campaign. This data will be accessible through the Bangchak mobile app, linking consumer actions to environmental benefits when using eco-friendly fuels. Starting from March 1st, the campaign will inform consumers about the carbon dioxide emissions tied to their fuel purchases, driving a shift in consumer behaviour towards reducing carbon footprints, Mr. Paopoom explained. This forthcoming carbon tax reflects Thailand's broader commitment to combatting climate change and demonstrates an important step towards a more sustainable future by engaging both corporations and consumers alike, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-02-04

Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand Unveils Plans to Curb High Airfares File photo courtesy: Wikipedia Amid rising concerns over exorbitant airfares during peak travel times, the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) has announced measures to ensure affordable options, particularly during high-demand periods like the Songkran holiday. This initiative, directed by Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit, aims to regulate fare structures for the benefit of passengers. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350749-civil-aviation-authority-of thailand unveils-plans-to-curb-high-airfares/

File photo courtesy: Wikipedia Amid rising concerns over exorbitant airfares during peak travel times, the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) has announced measures to ensure affordable options, particularly during high-demand periods like the Songkran holiday. This initiative, directed by Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit, aims to regulate fare structures for the benefit of passengers. Central to the CAAT's strategy is the implementation of a price ceiling tied to flight distances. Specifically, for low-cost carriers, fares are capped at 9.40 Baht per kilometre, while full-service airlines are restricted to 13 Baht per kilometre. These regulations apply expressly to tickets purchased directly from airlines, ensuring transparency and fairness in pricing. This price cap model is grounded in standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization. According to the framework, a significant portion of the fare, approximately 25-33%, is allocated for fuel costs, with 20-31% covering flight operations and 8-16% earmarked for maintenance. CAAT’s objective is clear: to deter airlines from inflating prices egregiously, which effectively puts a cap on excessive profit margins. Beyond capping prices, CAAT has put forward a trio of primary strategies to align airfares with consumer expectations and market dynamics: 1. Boosting Supply: CAAT is collaborating with airlines, airport authorities, and air traffic control entities to increase the number of available flights during busy travel periods. The strategy includes expanding flight schedules, enlarging airline operational capacities, and upgrading maintenance facilities. 2. Regulatory Revision: To ensure a fair pricing system, CAAT is collecting comprehensive data to review fare regulations, aiming for a balance that equally satisfies airlines and consumers. 3. Cost Reduction Measures: The Transport Ministry is advancing efforts to reduce airline operational costs by streamlining airspace management and investing in infrastructure improvements to enhance fuel efficiency. CAAT advises travellers to plan ahead for the best fares. Booking flights at least two to three weeks prior during low seasons, and up to six to eight weeks in advance during peak seasons, can yield significant savings, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-02-04

Pavena Foundation Rescues Thai Women from 'Human-Egg Farm' in Georgia screenshot via 9 MCOT Facebook Three Thai women have been rescued from an egg harvesting operation controlled by Chinese criminals in Georgia, a former Soviet republic. This ordeal came to light thanks to Pavena Hongsakula, the devoted founder of the Pavena Foundation for Children and Women, and highlights the ongoing battle against human trafficking. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350746-pavena-foundation-rescues-thai-women-from-human-egg -farm-in-georgia/

screenshot via 9 MCOT Facebook Three Thai women have been rescued from an egg harvesting operation controlled by Chinese criminals in Georgia, a former Soviet republic. This ordeal came to light thanks to Pavena Hongsakula, the devoted founder of the Pavena Foundation for Children and Women, and highlights the ongoing battle against human trafficking. The story unfolded when a Thai woman, previously ensnared in this scheme, returned to Thailand after managing to secure her freedom by paying the gang approximately 70,000 Baht. She shared her story with Ms. Pavena, explaining that several other women remained trapped in Georgia without the financial means to escape. In response, Ms. Pavena and her foundation swung into action. Collaborating with Thailand's Foreign Affairs police, led by Pol Maj Gen Surapan Thaiprasert, and Interpol, they orchestrated the return of three more women to Thailand. This successful rescue took place on January 30th, with one of the victims bravely recounting her ordeal on the foundation's Facebook page. The rescued woman described how she had been lured by a Facebook job advertisement promising an income of between 400,000 and 600,000 Baht. Believing she would be working as a surrogate mother in Georgia, a practice she was assured was legal, she accepted an offer that included all travel expenses covered. Upon arrival in August, she was accompanied by about 10 other women and taken by a Thai woman linked to the criminal gang. Their destination was a compound of four large houses, where they joined over 100 Thai women. Instead of legitimate surrogate work, the women were subjected to invasive procedures. Administered with hormones, they were anaesthetised monthly for egg retrieval, a process for which many received no payment. These eggs were likely trafficked for in-vitro fertilisation (IVF) procedures in other countries. Police are continuing the investigation, with the hope of uncovering more victims. This case adds to the grim statistics maintained by the Pavena Foundation, revealing that 257 Thai citizens were trafficked in 2024, with 204 cases occurring overseas. Although surrogacy services are widely marketed in Georgia, and regarded as legal contracts, the government is considering legislative changes that would outlaw these practices, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-02-04

NASA Study: Biomass Burning Fuels North Thailand PM2.5 Issues Picture courtesy: Siam Rath A study conducted under the ASIA-AQ project has found that most of the PM2.5 pollution affecting northern Thailand is primarily due to biomass burning. This revelation was the product of a collaborative effort between NASA, Thailand's Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA), and other scientific teams. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350739-nasa-study-biomass-burning-fuels-north-thailand-pm25-issues/

Picture courtesy: Siam Rath A study conducted under the ASIA-AQ project has found that most of the PM2.5 pollution affecting northern Thailand is primarily due to biomass burning. This revelation was the product of a collaborative effort between NASA, Thailand's Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA), and other scientific teams. During the ASIA-AQ Science Team Meeting in Malaysia from 20-24 January, scientists analysed air quality data from flights and ground sensors. Findings highlighted that the northern region's air pollution largely stems from biomass burning. This conclusion is supported by measurements of organic aerosols taken from NASA’s aircraft equipment and ground studies conducted in Chiang Mai by Korean researchers. The study also noted that Bangkok's pollution arises from a mix of human activities and biomass burning. Understanding these regional pollution sources is crucial for developing targeted strategies to mitigate their impact. Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Dr Pakorn Apaphanth, Director of GISTDA, stated that for nearly a year, Thai scientists have collaborated closely with NASA to explore pollution sources in Thailand. Their comprehensive report will be publicly released at the end of February, providing deeper insights into the air pollution dynamics in the region. Continued scientific research and monitoring are essential for not only understanding the pollution mechanisms but also for informing the public and ensuring effective responses, reported Siam Rath. -- 2025-02-04

Thailand Sets Ambitious 3.5 Trillion Baht Tourism Goal for 2025 Picture courtesy: Thai Newsroom Thailand's government has unveiled an ambitious plan to generate 3.5 trillion baht from tourism by 2025, a target primarily reliant on international markets. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is spearheading this drive with a host of year-round events and robust promotions under the banner of the Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year 2025, aiming to attract 39 million visitors. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350738-thailand-sets-ambitious-35-trillion-baht-tourism-goal-for-2025/

Picture courtesy: Thai Newsroom Thailand's government has unveiled an ambitious plan to generate 3.5 trillion baht from tourism by 2025, a target primarily reliant on international markets. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is spearheading this drive with a host of year-round events and robust promotions under the banner of the Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year 2025, aiming to attract 39 million visitors. Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong has expressed optimism about achieving pre-pandemic levels of tourism revenue and arrivals by the end of this year. While the recent numbers fall short of Japan's, Sorawong emphasises that Thailand's focus is not on competing with other countries but on surpassing its own 2019 success. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra's vision extends beyond the official 3 trillion baht target set for TAT, hoping to reach the 3.5 trillion baht mark. To achieve this monumental goal, the government plans to enhance the flow of tourists by increasing inbound flights, introducing an online TM6 immigration form tied to a 300-Baht fee, and improving transport links between primary and secondary cities. The TAT’s promotional strategy revolves around five key concepts: 1. Grand Festivity: Emphasising art, cultural, and music events. 2. Grand Moment: Featuring must-visit routes across Thailand's five regions. 3. Grand Privilege: Offering exclusive promotions for tourists. 4. Grand Invitation: Showcasing the country with visits from well-known figures. 5. Grand Celebration: Highlighting anniversaries with nations like China and France. Key events planned for the first half of the year include the "Maha Songkran: Saneh Thai Carnival" in April and the "Amazing Thailand Love Wins Festival" in June, celebrating the legalisation of same-sex marriage in Thailand. Despite the ambitious targets, tourism operators like Thanet Supornsahasrungsi of the Association of Chonburi Tourism Federation have voiced concerns. Challenges such as the delay in the return of Chinese tour groups, affected by safety perceptions and economic tensions, might hinder attaining the target. Meanwhile, the Chinese economy's sluggish growth and trade tensions with the US are contributing factors. In response, the government plans to bolster domestic tourism through campaigns like "We Travel Together," slated to relaunch in June, which could boost local tourism despite weak domestic purchasing power. Initiatives that enable remote work for travellers could further energise the domestic market. Marisa Sukosol Nunbhakdi, former Thai Hotels Association president, acknowledged the challenges yet remains optimistic that the increase in new hotels, flights, and events could make the 3.5 trillion baht target feasible, provided the strategic plans are effectively implemented, reported TAT News, Bangkok Post. -- 2025-02-04

Thai sex creator retires and warns fans of impersonation scam By Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ Sajeera Theeranetr A female Thai sex content creator announced her retirement and warned her followers to beware of scammers releasing livestream videos while posing as her. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350707-thai-sex-creator-retires-and-warns-fans-of-impersonation-scam/

Foreign motorcyclist flees Thailand after hit-and-run in Phuket - video By Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ Phuket Times ภูเก็ตไทม์ A foreign motorcyclist remains on the run after fleeing Thailand following a collision with a Thai pedestrian on a road in Phuket, leaving the victim in a serious condition. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350710-foreign-motorcyclist-flees-thailand-after-hit-and-run-in-phuket-video/

Youth Vaping Surge Urges Nationwide Action Against E-Cigarettes File photo for reference only Civil networks are pushing for e-cigarettes to become a national concern as vaping among young people surged last year. The Senate committee on Social Development discussed this issue in a seminar on January 30, held at Parliament. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350717-youth-vaping-surge-urges-nationwide-action-against-e-cigarettes/

to continue: Thailand Live Tuesday 4 February 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1350715-thailand-live-tuesday-4-february-2025/

Photo via Facebook/ Phuket Times ภูเก็ตไทม์ Pee-ce treaty: Foreigners demand more loos after Phuket public urination uproar By Petch Petpailin Foreign netizens defended themselves and called for more public bathrooms in Phuket after Thai nationals condemned the foreigners on social media for urinating in public. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350709-pee-ce-treaty-foreigners-demand-more-loos-after-phuket-public-urination-uproar/

British man’s Thailand trip goes from heaven to prison hell (video) by Bob Scott Pictures courtesy of the Daily Mail A British man ventured to Thailand anticipating nothing more than a peaceful, sun-drenched escape, yet, his dream holiday rapidly descended into a nightmare after a seemingly trivial mishap spiralled into a chain of catastrophic events. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350672-british-man’s-thailand-trip-goes-from-heaven-to-prison-hell-video/

Pictures courtesy of the Daily Mail by Bob Scott A British man ventured to Thailand anticipating nothing more than a peaceful, sun-drenched escape, yet, his dream holiday rapidly descended into a nightmare after a seemingly trivial mishap spiralled into a chain of catastrophic events. Arrested, assaulted, and stripped of his belongings, Andrew Hopkins’ tale unfolds as a chilling reminder for would-be travellers drawn to the Land of Smiles. It all began on an unassuming night in Pattaya. The 55 year old man decided to take a leisurely evening stroll from his Airbnb, unaware that this decision would turn his trip upside down. As he meandered through his neighbourhood, fate took an unfortunate terrible twist when he accidentally walked into a neighbour’s entrance sign. “At 21st 8lbs (137 kilos), it was inevitable I’d cause a bit of damage but little did I know the storm it would provoke.” Almost immediately, the sounds of anger pierced the night as two security guards revealed themselves, shouting furiously in Thai. Despite his heartfelt apologies and an offer to compensate for the damage, their rage was unquenchable, said Hopkins. Within minutes, the scene escalated further when local police arrived, and the British man found himself forcibly thrown into the back of a pickup truck. Locked up in a cell for the next 36 hours, Hopkins’ bewilderment turned to fear. “They threw me into jail, with an English guy inside advising me to comply, and eventually, they’d set me free.” It was only after an Italian stranger arrived, instructing him to withdraw 15,000 baht (£360) as a fine, that Hopkins’ release was negotiated, reported the Daily Mail. Once out, the British man’s relief was short-lived. On returning to his Airbnb, he encountered a hostile reception from the host’s wife, who was furiously waving his room key. “They’d cancelled my booking and insisted I leave immediately.” Pictures courtesy of the Daily Mail Desperate to gather his belongings, Hopkins asked for a brief reprieve to collect his things. Hesitantly, they agreed. Inside the apartment, a strange chemical odour greeted him. “It seemed like they’d tried to drug me.” His suitcase was filled haphazardly, and most alarmingly, considerable cash and valuables had vanished. His Cooperative Bank debit card, MBNA credit card, phone chargers, and a hidden stash of £1,230 (51,600 baht) in cash, all missing. Hopkins confronted the woman, only to face accusations about smoking on the balcony. “There was an ashtray there. I even had a video to prove it.” Things escalated further when the police made a swift return. This time, the encounter turned even more brutal. “They attacked me, handcuffed me to a pickup, and dragged me back to jail.” Hopkins left with his arm bound to the cell bars, he endured unspeakable indignities. “I had to urinate over myself. Lying there in my own fluids, I was stripped of any dignity.” Frustrated and helpless, Hopkins resorted to singing songs like “Country Roads,” “God Save the King,” and “Half the World Away” to get someone’s attention. Eventually, the officers released him but his troubles were far from over. His Thai mobile, a Galaxy s21, was missing, along with more cash. Pictures courtesy of The Daily Mail Worse, fraudulent charges of £450 cropped up on his debit card but the bank refused to help. “They wouldn’t even check the CCTV from the 7-Eleven.” Adding insult to injury, the £480 cash stash was gone, along with his beloved trainers and flipflops, leaving him barefoot and bewildered. As a small consolation, he was handed £120 in cash and left to fend for himself. Back in the UK, Hopkins struggled with the aftermath, revealing ongoing physical pain, infections, and PTSD. “I ended up booking a business-class flight home with Emirates for £1,800 because I simply couldn’t sit properly.” Now, Hopkins is embroiled in battles with Airbnb insurers and his travel insurance, while the UK Home Office has taken his plight to the Thai authorities. Sharing his experience as a warning, Andrew noted: “Tourists in Thailand have zero rights, and are seen as easy targets.” “They call it the Land of Smiles but that fades once the bills stop being paid. If you ever find yourself in a situation over there, keep your cool, stay quiet, and never, under any circumstances, question their authority.” What should have been a blissful escape became a stark lesson in caution and cultural understanding. Hopkins’ story is a poignant reminder that paradise can quickly turn perilous. Pictures courtesy of The Daily Mail Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-02-03