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to continue: Thailand Live Tuesday 10 September 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1337753-thailand-live-tuesday-10-september-2024/

Thailand Accelerates 145 Billion Baht Digital Wallet Payout File photo for reference only Thailand plans to fast-track the distribution of 145 billion baht from its "digital wallet" programme, according to Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat. Originally slated for the year's end, the initiative aims to provide immediate economic relief to vulnerable groups amid a sluggish economic recovery. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337739-thailand-accelerates-145-billion-baht-digital-wallet-payout/

A Frenchman was arrested in Krabi after a visa overstay of eight years. The Frenchman, Didier, entered Thailand on February 19, 2016, with a tourist visa that expired on May 18, 2016. After the visa’s expiration, Didier continued to stay in Thailand, resulting in a total overstay of 3,032 days. Frenchman arrested in Krabi for eight-year visa overstay Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337724-frenchman-arrested-in-krabi-for-eight-year-visa-overstay/ Image courtesy of KhaoSod

Bangkok hospital’s Nazi ‘gas chambers’ plan sparks fury by Bob Scott Director of Mongkutwattana Hospital, Rienthong Nanna. Picture: ThaiPost The director of Mongkutwattana Hospital in Bangkok sparked a storm of controversy with a plan to punish smokers who defy his anti-smoking ban, drawing comparisons to Nazi Germany’s grim practices. Rienthong Nanna, the director of the private hospital located in the Laksi district, declared on Facebook that he would confine defiant smokers in ‘gas chambers’ made from old telephone booths until they inhale 100% of their cigarette smoke. Rienthong detailed that these telephone booths, donated for Covid-19 screening between 2020 and 2022, will now serve as a method to enforce the smoking ban within the hospital premises. The initiative aims to contain the smoke, preventing it from affecting other patients and visitors while ensuring smokers fully absorb their cigarette emissions. “In the innovative gas chambers, those who defy the smoking ban at Mongkutwattana Hospital can fully inhale the smoke from their cigarettes. The smoke will not be released to the outside and annoy or harm the public but will ruin the health of the smokers themselves.” The booths will feature lock sensors that detect smoke. Once the smoke dissipates, the doors will unlock automatically, allowing the smokers to exit. Rienthong expressed his frustration with selfish smokers, noting that this method would replace previous physical confrontations. Rienthong is not a stranger to controversy. This announcement comes after a recent incident where Rienthong made headlines for slapping and stripping a teenager who smoked on hospital grounds. The director defended his actions, citing the need to protect other visitors and patients from second-hand smoke, which could travel through the hospital’s ventilation system. The altercation led to legal action against the Bangkok hospital director. Complicating matters, it was later revealed that the teenager was allegedly in possession of heroin during the visit to the hospital, reported Bangkok Post. In a related incident, a disturbing incident unfolded at Mongkutwattana Hospital yesterday, May 13, where the director, Doctor Rianthong Nanna, is accused of physically assaulting a 14 year old boy and ordering him to strip naked as punishment for smoking in the hospital’s restroom. Full story: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-09 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Passenger Criticizes Thai Airways for Stranding Over 30 People at Arlanda Airport File photo courtesy: Wikipedia A woman shares a cautionary tale about being stranded by Thai Airways. She describes how over 30 passengers were left abandoned when their flights were canceled, with no communication from the airline. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337703-passenger-criticizes-thai-airways-for-stranding-over-30-people-at-arlanda-airport/

File photo courtesy: Wikipedia A woman shares a cautionary tale about being stranded by Thai Airways. She describes how over 30 passengers were left abandoned when their flights were canceled, with no communication from the airline. The woman, along with her entire family including a 3-year-old child, was forced to stay at the airport without any assistance for more than 6 hours before receiving new tickets. On September 9th, the Facebook user "jinnysista" shared her dreadful experience with Thai Airways. Her post reads, "Review of a terrible experience with Thai Airways – cancellation at the gate GATE 65, Stockholm Arlanda Airport Terminal 5. Who would imagine spending 170,000 baht (3823.68 GBP) on a legitimate ticket purchased from Thai Airways’ website, just to have it canceled right before boarding? On September 2, 2024, at 7:20 AM, even as the plane was landing in Stockholm—already delayed by 20 minutes—Jinny and her family rushed to re-scan their bags and run to the gate. But they were informed that Thai Airways canceled tickets for everyone, totaling over 30 passengers, without prior notice. Oddly, other passengers who hadn't booked with Thai Airways could still board their flights without issues. To this day, the true reason for Thai Airways' cancellation remains unknown, but there are a few possibilities: 1. The delayed flight might have caused a timing issue with transferring luggage to a connecting flight at the airport. 2. Thai Airways potentially didn’t pay extra fees for staff to wait for delayed passengers. 3. The connecting flight was with SAS, which had exited the Star Alliance. Regardless of the reason, none of this was the passengers' fault. However, passengers were left stranded at the terminal without immediate help, and no Thai Airways staff were available to assist. Imagine expecting to return home to the UK but instead being stuck at the airport without a Schengen visa. It took 6 hours of phone calls to finally get new tickets, without ever meeting or receiving help from any Thai Airways staff. Jinny and her family had to chase down Thai Airways staff from other flights to enquire about food and expense compensation, which they rightly deserved. After a long wait of 4 more hours, they finally received 300 SEK each (initially, they were only offered 100 SEK per person, until they filed a complaint). Throughout their communication, Thai Airways staff consistently deflected responsibility, despite the fact that they had booked tickets directly with the airline. How can they shirk responsibility like this? It’s a question left unanswered, but one thing is clear—they were deeply disappointed with Thai Airways.” -- 2024-09-09 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Latest carmaker to scale back its EV ambitions amid slowing sales By Pattaya Mail The world’s largest automaker now plans to produce only 1 million EVs in 2026, down from the previously announced target of 1.5 million units. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337700-latest-carmaker-to-scale-back-its-ev-ambitions-amid-slowing-sales/

The world’s largest automaker now plans to produce only 1 million EVs in 2026, down from the previously announced target of 1.5 million units. Toyota Motor, the Japanese automotive giant, has revised its electric vehicle (EV) production plans for 2026, reducing its original target by one-third, according to a report by Nikkei Business, September 8. Toyota is the latest carmaker to scale back its EV ambitions amid slowing EV sales. The world’s largest automaker now plans to produce only 1 million EVs in 2026, down from the previously announced target of 1.5 million units. Despite the reduction, Toyota clarified that its commitment to reaching 1.5 million EVs annually by 2026 and 3.5 million by 2030 remains unchanged, emphasizing that these numbers are benchmarks for shareholders rather than fixed goals. By Pattaya Mail Full story: Pattaya Mail -- 2024-09-09 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Khao Yai National Park Enforces Stricter Wildlife Protection Rules Picture courtesy: Amarin TV Chaiya Huaihongthong, the chief of Khao Yai National Park, announced the implementation of new stringent measures to preserve the park’s delicate ecosystem. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337698-khao-yai-national-park-enforces-stricter-wildlife-protection-rules/

Picture courtesy: Amarin TV Chaiya Huaihongthong, the chief of Khao Yai National Park, announced the implementation of new stringent measures to preserve the park’s delicate ecosystem. Situated in the Pak Chong district, Nakhon Ratchasima, the park will now have inspection points on Thanarat Road to monitor exhaust noise and vehicle speeds. These initiatives come in response to rising concerns over PM 2.5 dust pollution and the need to maintain the park's pristine air quality. "We have coordinated efforts to set up checkpoints to measure noise levels and vehicle speeds for both cars and motorcycles entering and exiting the park," Chaiya explained. Under the new regulations, vehicles are prohibited from exceeding 95 decibels in noise and must adhere to a speed limit of 60 kilometres per hour. These regulations align with the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment’s standards to ensure pollution-free air, safeguarding both wildlife and visitors from noise disturbances. "We are serious about enforcing these rules to protect wildlife and visitors from noise disturbances," Chaiya added. A worrying trend has been identified where some motorcyclists and motorists temporarily block exhaust noise using steel wool, only to remove these makeshift buffers once outside the park. This practice endangers wildlife, as discarded steel wool can be ingested by animals such as wild elephants. Several vehicles have already been fined for breaching the 95-decibel noise limit. Khao Yai National Park mandates that all entering vehicles must have exhaust systems devoid of smoke and excessive noise, as per legal limits. Loud exhausts not only disturb the serene environment but also pose a threat to the wellbeing of wildlife. Visitors are urged to comply with these rules to help maintain a pollution-free environment, beneficial for both humans and animals. Chaiya stressed that the park’s objective is to preserve Khao Yai as a beautiful, healthy destination. To this end, the park’s regulations emphasize : don't drive fast, don't make loud noises, don't litter, don’t feed the animals, and don’t bring pets into the park. The park chief’s firm stance underscores the importance of abiding by these guidelines for the long-term preservation of Khao Yai National Park. -- 2024-09-09 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai doctor vows to create "Hitler Room" to gas hospital smokers On September 8, 2024, it was reported that Major General Dr. Reienthong Nanna, Director of Mongkutwattana Hospital, posted on his Facebook page, stating: Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337695-thai-doctor-vows-to-create-hitler-room-to-gas-hospital-smokers/

Picture courtesy: Thai Rath THAILAND - On September 8, 2024, it was reported that Major General Dr. Reienthong Nanna, Director of Mongkutwattana Hospital, posted on his Facebook page, stating: "I plan to repurpose the 'public phone booths' that were donated for COVID-19 screening during the 2020-2022 pandemic. These booths are no longer in use and would otherwise become waste. I will turn them into an innovation called 'Smoke Rooms' for those who break the no-smoking rule at Mongkutwattana Hospital. Smokers can smoke as much as they want inside these rooms, but the smoke will remain contained. It won’t disturb others or harm public health, only the smoker's health, reported Thai Rath. The cigarette smoke will continuously circulate inside the 'Smoke Room' until it's fully consumed. The door, controlled by an automatic smoke sensor, will unlock only after the smoke has cleared, allowing the smoker to exit. This ensures that smokers inhale 100% of their own cigarette smoke, maximizing the experience of each cigarette they smoke. Not a single bit of smoke will escape to disturb or harm anyone else. While this 'Smoke Room' innovation may seem harsh, it ensures no one smokes inside Mongkutwattana Hospital. If someone avoids our hospital because of this strict anti-smoking measure, I would be more than happy. Dr. Reienthong also mentioned he would name this 'Smoke Room' the 'Hitler Room.' (ห้องฮิตเลอร์) He warned that anyone caught smoking selfishly in the hospital, harming others, will face public shaming by hospital volunteers and 'Black Hooded' individuals. He emphasized that this is not a joke and that they are serious. Major General Dr. Reienthong Nanna, Director of Mongkutwattana Hospital—a hospital committed to civility, safety, being smoke-free, and free from troublemakers —September 8, 2024, at 10:35 AM. Note: The 'Smoke Room' or 'Hitler Room' will be showcased to the public once it is ready, as a deterrent for non-smokers." -- 2024-09-09 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

PM Paetongtarn to Conduct Weekly Progress Reviews Picture courtesy: National News Bureau of Thailand Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra is introducing weekly meetings with her ministers to closely monitor and evaluate the progress of her government’s initiatives. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337693-pm-paetongtarn-to-conduct-weekly-progress-reviews/

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra is introducing weekly meetings with her ministers to closely monitor and evaluate the progress of her government’s initiatives. Following a special Cabinet meeting, she highlighted the importance of continuous assessment and coordination to ensure timely implementation of government policies. Paetongtarn also mentioned plans to present a public summary reviewing the first three months of her administration. She reassured the public and her Cabinet that a dedicated legal team is in place to address any legal challenges the government might face. Emphasizing her determination to fulfill the administration's full three-year term, she underlined the need for policy continuity and consistent collaboration with coalition partners from previous administrations. Paetongtarn avoided addressing comments about her father, former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, focusing instead on the future direction of her government. When asked about the much-anticipated 10,000 baht digital wallet scheme, intended to boost the economy, she deferred details to Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat. Nonetheless, she reassured that immediate economic measures are a priority for her government. The weekly progress reviews aim to ensure that government projects and policies are on track, and to swiftly address any emerging issues. This approach reflects Paetongtarn's commitment to transparency and accountability, striving to maintain public trust by demonstrating visible action and results. Analysts believe these steps are crucial for building Paetongtarn’s political momentum and showing tangible achievements early in her term. The initial three-month review is expected to be a significant milestone, setting the tone for the remainder of her administration and providing the public with concrete evidence of progress. As Paetongtarn's government continues to navigate challenges and roll out key policies, the ongoing weekly reviews will serve as a cornerstone for operational efficiency and policy success, ensuring a responsive and dynamic governance model. Picture courtesy: National News Bureau of Thailand -- 2024-09-09 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Monday 9 September 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337691-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-monday-9-september-2024/

NEWS - 09-September.mp4 The minister of labour confirmed the daily minimum wage will rise to 400 baht on Oct 1st, despite concerns it could impact businesses. Companies with over 200 employees will receive a 1% discount on Social Security Fund contributions for a year. Meanwhile A business association president urged the government to provide tax breaks and exemptions to help the private sector until the economy recovers. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra announced over the weekend that her new government will immediately focus on stimulating the economy and will continue the policies of former premier Srettha Thavisin. She held a special cabinet meeting on Saturday to prepare for a presentation at a two-day parliamentary session on Thursday and Friday this week which will mark the official start of her administration. Drug enforcement officers arrested 2 suspected drug traffickers who were in possession of around 600 kilograms of ice methamphetamine in Chaiyaphum yesterday. The suspects are a 39, driver and 48 year old, who was driving another car, both were taken in for questioning. The Thailand Consumer Council backs a Transport department proposal to cap Bangkok train fares at 20 baht per trip. Their secretary general also recommended allocating a fair budget for public bus services in all provinces. Thaksin Shinawatra suggested the government set ticket prices and implement congestion charges for car users in the capital, using the revenue to subsidize public transport. Around the region Papua New Guinea: Pope Francis was flown deep into the jungle yesterday, where he held mass to a township of some 12,000 people with no running water and scarce electricity, his mission delivered medical supplies and other aid. Vietnam: Typhoon Yagi, Asia's most powerful storm this year, was downgraded to a tropical depression yesterday, after wreaking havoc in northern Vietnam, where it damaged factories and infrastructure. The meteorological agency cautioned about the ongoing risk of flooding and landslides as the storm, the strongest to hit the country in decades, Todays Weather That storm has dissipated and is just north of Thailand but is bringing heavy Rain and thunderstorms to the far north and north east 29C Chiang Mai and the north: cloudy 29C degrees celsius Bangkok: heavy rain and Thundershowers 33 Pattaya: Cloudy with showers 31 Phuket and the south: Cloudy with showers 30C Hua Hin: Cloudy, some showers 33C. Much the same over the weekend . AQI: green which is good Green clear, yellow moderate, Orange High, Red unhealthy. Credits: Bangkok Post, The Nation, Asean Now, Khaosod English, Hua Hin Today, Channel News Asia, South China Morning Post, The Straits Times. The Irrawaddy. Wunderground.com The Pattaya News, Phuket News, Windy.com. -- SURF 102.5 FM 2024-09-09 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Paethongtarn Govt Expected to Last Full Term, Poll Indicates Picture courtesy: Thai Rath On September 8, 2024, the Super Poll Research Center released the results of a new survey regarding public opinion on Thailand's Paethongtarn Shinawatra government. Full. story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337690-paethongtarn-govt-expected-to-last-full-term-poll-indicates/

Picture courtesy: Thai Rath On September 8, 2024, the Super Poll Research Center released the results of a new survey regarding public opinion on Thailand's Paethongtarn Shinawatra government. This study canvassed the views of 2,078 individuals from diverse professions across the nation between September 6-7, focusing on sentiments towards the new government and its capability to complete a full term. Among those surveyed, opinions varied significantly based on past voting patterns. Pheu Thai Party voters: - 81.2% expressed support for the new government. - 18.8% expressed disapproval. Voters of other parties: - 24.4% expressed support for the new government. - 75.6% expressed disapproval. When it comes to public confidence in Prime Minister Paethongtarn Shinawatra, distinct areas of strength were evident: Public Health Management: 42.6% expressed confidence. Tourism and Economic Recovery (Soft Power): 33.7% expressed confidence. Economic Issues and Cost of Living: 33.2% expressed confidence. Drug Problem Resolution: 25.3% expressed confidence. Cyber Security and Call Centre Fraud: 23.9% expressed confidence. Overall, public confidence in the longevity of Paethongtarn's government appears robust: - 62% felt somewhat to very confident that the administration would see out its full term. - 38% harboured little to no confidence. This feedback sets a clear mandate for the government, highlighting the people’s expectations in key areas such as public health and economic management. These insights can guide political strategies and inform policy decisions aimed at sustaining public support, reported Thai Rath. In essence, while the survey underscores a generally favourable outlook towards Paethongtarn’s leadership, it also suggests areas requiring further governmental focus, particularly in combating drug issues and enhancing cyber security. -- 2024-09-09 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Army Seizes 'Man U' Branded Drugs in Chiang Rai; 4x Increase Over Last Year Picture courtesy: Thai Rath The military announced they had seized "Man U" branded methamphetamine in Chiang Rai. This year, the amount of seized methamphetamine is four times more than in 2023. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337689-army-seizes-man-u-branded-drugs-in-chiang-rai 4x-increase-over-last-year/

Picture courtesy: Thai Rath The military announced they had seized "Man U" branded methamphetamine in Chiang Rai. This year, the amount of seized methamphetamine is four times more than in 2023. Major General Praphat Phobsuwan, commander of the Pha Muang Task Force and director of the anti-drug operations center, along with ONCB Region 5, held a press conference at 10:30 AM on September 8, 2024. They discussed two drug-related incidents in Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai, seizing 2.3 million methamphetamine tablets and resulting in the deaths of six suspects. This year's methamphetamine seizures have increased by four times compared to 2023. The "Man U" label found on the methamphetamine is just a brand mark for a specific group of customers and holds no special significance. The first incident took place on September 5, 2024, when the 2nd Cavalry Company of the Tha Pha Daeng Task Force, conducting a patrol, noticed suspicious activity from 2-3 individuals near the forest at Ban Pha Taek, Mu 10, Wiang Phang Kham Sub-district, Mae Sai District, Chiang Rai. When officers approached, the suspects fired at them, leading to a five-minute exchange of gunfire. The suspects fled, and the officers then secured the area. The officers found five modified backpacks containing a total of 1,000,000 methamphetamine tablets. This quantity could have a street value of 150 million baht if it reached the inner regions of the country. The second incident occurred on September 6, 2024, involving the 3207 and 3209 Ranger Companies of the 3rd Army's Operations Center. They were patrolling Ban Huai Nam Yen, Mu 4, Tha Ton Sub-district, Mae Ai District, Chiang Mai, when they encountered 7 to 10 individuals carrying modified backpacks. After another firefight lasting about 10 minutes, resulting in the deaths of six suspects, officers found 13 modified backpacks containing a total of 1,300,000 methamphetamine tablets, a homemade shotgun, a homemade rifle, shotgun shells, and AK-47 shells. All evidence was handed over to Mae Ai Police Station. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Comparing last year's data, with 18 gunfights, resulting in 34 deaths and the seizure of 42,609,536 methamphetamine tablets worth 8.2 billion baht, this year's numbers are notably higher. From October 2022 to the present, there have been 432 incidents, 449 arrests, and the seizure of 186,152,547 methamphetamine tablets, 268.1 kg of heroin, 1,438.3 kg of ice (crystallized methamphetamine), 197.1 kg of opium, and 29.3 kg of ketamine, totaling 29.668 billion baht. There have been 49 gunfights resulting in 35 deaths, highlighting the significant increase in drug trafficking activity. The labelling of methamphetamine with the "Man U" symbol is merely for customer identification, similar to other symbols like "999" or "Apple." The authorities are continually working to curb drug trafficking, despite the challenging weather conditions and ongoing demands within the country. The situation is further exacerbated by instability in neighboring countries, leading to increased smuggling for financing and arming rebel groups. -- 2024-09-09 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Man Arrested for Stealing from Tourists on Ferry to Koh Larn Composite courtesy: Daily News Pattaya tourist police arrested a 52-year-old Thai man who was looking for victims on a ferry to Koh Larn. He would engage tourists in conversation before stealing their belongings. It was discovered that he had a long history of criminal activity. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337687-thai-man-arrested-for-stealing-from-tourists-on-ferry-to-koh-larn/

Composite courtesy: Daily News Pattaya tourist police arrested a 52-year-old Thai man who was looking for victims on a ferry to Koh Larn. He would engage tourists in conversation before stealing their belongings. It was discovered that he had a long history of criminal activity. On September 8th, around 10:30 AM, Pol. Lt. Col. Piyapong Aensan, the superintendent of Tourist Police Division 4, received a report of a theft involving a 37-year-old female tourist. Her iPhone had been stolen, and the suspect was described as a Thai man around 50 years old. The victim explained that while on the ferry to Koh Larn, a man around 50 years old sat next to her, initiated a conversation, and became friendly. Once they arrived at Tawean Beach on Koh Larn, she realized her iPhone was missing when she wanted to take a photo. She suspected the man and quickly reported to the tourist police. Officers then reviewed CCTV footage and identified the suspect as Somsak Buengnork, a 52-year-old man. They found him walking near Tawean Beach on Koh Larn and conducted a search, discovering the stolen iPhone in his bag. He admitted to the theft when confronted with the evidence. PIcture courtesy: Daily News Somsak was taken into custody along with the recovered phone and sent to Pattaya City Police Station for legal action. His criminal record showed multiple offenses, including child molestation in 2021, theft in Ratchaburi in 2021, and night-time theft in Pattaya in 2024. He had been involved in numerous criminal activities over the years. -- 2024-09-09 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Young Boy, Infamous for Prior Viral Vaping Video, Found Chained to Chair on Pattaya Beach By Aim Tanakorn Pattaya — An 11-year-old boy was found chained to a chair on Pattaya Beach by his father, who later tested positive for drugs. The boy was previously caught vaping on Walking Street. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337681-young-boy-infamous-for-prior-viral-vaping-video-found-chained-to-chair-on-pattaya-beach/

Pattaya — An 11-year-old boy was found chained to a chair on Pattaya Beach by his father, who later tested positive for drugs. The boy was previously caught vaping on Walking Street. On August 24th, 2024, a video was shared on social media showing a young boy smoking an e-cigarette in front of a nightclub on Walking Street. It was later revealed that the boy, named by authorities as Pangpond, is 11 years old and has a history of running away from home, leading his family to repeatedly search for him. Following these events, officials from the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security (MSDHS) in Chonburi province took the boy into their care at a children’s shelter for evaluation and rehabilitation. However, according to the latest report, the boy’s family requested to take him back into their custody. On September 7th, 2024, prominent social activist Kan Jompalang (real name Mr. Kanthas Phongpaibulvej), along with his team, visited Pattaya Police Station to meet with Police Chief Pol. Col. Navin Theerawit. He requested police assistance after receiving a complaint about a boy, who was recognized as Pangpond, being chained to a chair by his guardian at Pattaya Beach, just a few hundred meters from the police station. Upon arriving at the beach, authorities found Pangpond’s parents renting out mats to tourists, while the boy was chained by his ankle to a camping chair. The police brought the family in for questioning. Kan Jompalang expressed concern over the situation, noting that Pattaya is a word-class tourist destination, and incidents like this could tarnish the city’s image. By Aim Tanakorn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS -- 2024-09-09 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

British Man in Pattaya Crashes Motorcycle into Sidecar, Driver Severely Injured By Aim Tanakorn Pattaya — A British man crashed his motorcycle into a sidecar in Pattaya, leaving the sidecar driver and a passenger critically injured. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337679-british-man-in-pattaya-crashes-motorcycle-into-sidecar-driver-severely-injured/