webfact

Thaksin Boldly Promises to End Scam Call Centres in Months Picture courtesy: Daily News Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has expressed confidence that government policies will gain major traction within a few months. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349287-thaksin-boldly-promises-to-end-scam-call-centres-in-months/

Picture courtesy: Daily News Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has expressed confidence that government policies will gain major traction within a few months. Specifically, he predicted the complete closure of notorious scam call centres by the year's end, for which extensive collaboration with neighbouring Cambodia and Myanmar has been undertaken. This bold claim is part of a broader vision to revitalise Thailand’s economy and public welfare. Campaigning in Bueng Kan for a local politician, Thaksin outlined future government initiatives closely tied to global economic trends. These include a bold move towards adopting cryptocurrency, which he believes can significantly infuse capital into Thailand's economy. He also promised a major housing development project with plans to construct 100,000 homes annually, aiming to accelerate socioeconomic growth. Addressing environmental concerns, Thaksin emphasised the urgency of tackling PM 2.5 pollution levels by holding sugar factories accountable for emissions, showcasing an integrated approach to policy-making. Paetongtarn “Ung Ing” Shinawatra, Thaksin’s daughter, has also been proactive, revealing comprehensive plans to dismantle drug operations and scam call centres based in border regions by year-end. Ung-Ing emphasised that discussions with officials in Poipet and Myawaddy reflect the administration's commitment to regional cooperation for public safety. Picture courtesy: Daily News Further enhancing Thailand’s international engagement, the government is preparing to sign a landmark free trade agreement with the European Free Trade Association on 23rd January in Davos. This agreement will significantly boost trade with Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein, marking a strategic expansion into European markets. In parallel, Thailand has made its mark in the tourism industry, with Bangkok recently being ranked the second-best city globally by Time Out magazine, celebrated for its cuisine and cultural vibrancy. This accolade aligns with the government's strategic vision to promote Thailand as a global tourist hub, aiming for longer tourist stays and broader exploration beyond the capital. -- 2025-01-20

Gorilla smuggling plot uncovered after Istanbul Airport seizure by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post A wildlife official has acknowledged the challenges in pursuing legal action against those involved in the attempted trafficking of a baby gorilla, initially seized in Turkey and allegedly destined for Thailand. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349286-gorilla-smuggling-plot-uncovered-after-istanbul-airport-seizure/

Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post by Bright Choomanee A wildlife official has acknowledged the challenges in pursuing legal action against those involved in the attempted trafficking of a baby gorilla, initially seized in Turkey and allegedly destined for Thailand. The gorilla, named Zeytin, meaning olive in Turkish, is now at a zoo in Turkey and reportedly in good health, according to Sadudee Punpugdee, director of the Wild Fauna and Flora Protection Division. Since being intercepted en route from Nigeria to Thailand, Zeytin has grown 10 centimetres, gained 2 kilogrammes, and is estimated to be five months old. Investigations have linked the gorilla to a farm in Nakhon Pathom. The crate carrying Zeytin was labelled as containing 50 rabbits and was addressed to this farm. The inquiry was conducted collaboratively by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, the Livestock Department, and the Customs Department. Sadudee, also representing CITES, expressed scepticism that any parties in Thailand will be held accountable. However, he confirmed that coordination efforts with CITES representatives in Nigeria and Turkey are ongoing to dismantle the smuggling network responsible for the incident. Officials suspect that Zeytin was targeted by a gorilla baby smuggling operation based at Chatuchak Market in Bangkok. The buyer is believed to be a wealthy businessman with a penchant for exotic animals. The gorilla was smuggled in a wooden crate on a flight from Nigeria to Bangkok and was seized by the Customs Enforcement Smuggling and Intelligence Directorate at Istanbul airport on December 21. TK Farm in Nakhon Pathom, the intended recipient of the shipment, is a registered animal importer and breeder with a presence in Chatuchak Market, according to police. The farm’s owner stated that an African man had approached the company for assistance in importing 50 rabbits, reported Bangkok Post. The company agreed to manage the import procedures for 150,000 baht (US$4,346) but denied any knowledge of the gorilla. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-20

Thai Singer 'Tik Shiro' Faces Grieving Family After Fatal Car Accident Picture courtesy: Daily News At Wat Phra Si Maha That in Bangkok, well-known Thai singer Sirisak "Tik Shiro" Nantasesn paid his respects to Chakkraphat Siwaponphithak, known as Junior, who tragically died following a car accident. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349273-thai-singer-tik-shiro-faces-grieving-family-after-fatal-car-accident/

Picture courtesy: Daily News At Wat Phra Si Maha That in Bangkok, well-known Thai singer Sirisak "Tik Shiro" Nantasesn paid his respects to Chakkraphat Siwaponphithak, known as 'Junior', who tragically died following a car accident. Junior, 22, was fatally injured after being hit by a van driven by Tik Shiro on 10th October 2022. The accident occurred on Sukhaphiban 5 Road, and his sister Mejii also lost her life at the scene. During the funeral, journalists awaited Tik Shiro's arrival, who had initially expressed his condolences through messages from Surat Thani, where he was located. He eventually arrived, accompanied by two friends, only after the ceremony had concluded, due to a flight delay. He offered his apologies and condolences in person to Junior's father. The family expressed a willingness to discuss possible compensation but left any legal matters to the authorities, as the case proceeds through the judicial process. Junior's funeral rites will continue until 21st January, with cremation scheduled for 22nd January. -- 2025-01-20

Thai Nightclubs Face Crackdown on Ketamine Vape Drug File photo courtesy: Wikipedia Thailand is intensifying its efforts to clamp down on the growing trend of "vaped" ketamine, a novel blend involving vape juice and the hallucinogenic drug, increasingly popular among the nightclub scene. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349267-thai-nightclubs-face-crackdown-on-ketamine-vape-drug/

File photo courtesy: Wikipedia Thailand is intensifying its efforts to clamp down on the growing trend of "vaped" ketamine, a novel blend involving vape juice and the hallucinogenic drug, increasingly popular among the nightclub scene. This crackdown was confirmed by Anukool Pruksanusak, Thailand's deputy government spokesman, who highlighted the need for stringent measures against this emergent narcotic threat. Ketamine, classified as a Type 2 narcotic in Thailand, comes with heavy legal ramifications. Possession of the substance can lead to severe penalties, including up to seven years in prison and fines reaching 700,000 Thai Baht. More serious is the distribution without legal authorisation, attracting a potential 15-year jail term and fines up to 1.5 million Thai Baht. Despite its reputation for recreational misuse, ketamine holds legitimate applications as a quick-acting anaesthetic in medical settings, appreciated for its ability to induce sedation and alleviate pain. However, its misuse primarily for the purposes of its hallucinogenic effects—whether smoked or inhaled—poses significant health risks. Such escalation in recreational use can lead to severe outcomes. Prolonged usage may foster addiction and even precipitate psychotic disorders. High dosages are alarmingly dangerous, provoking symptoms such as vomiting, seizures, oxygen deprivation to the brain and muscles, and in the direst cases, fatal overdoses. Central to the government's strategy is a reinvigorated commitment to combat all forms of narcotics, with a sharp focus on this ketamine vaping craze. Mr. Pruksanusak underlines the administration's ongoing dedication to spearheading anti-drug initiatives in collaboration with various agencies, aiming to substantially curb the influx and usage of narcotics, reported Bangkok Post. Vigilance is encouraged among the public, who are urged to report any suspicious drug activities. Information can be shared directly with the police or through the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) 1556 Hotline, 02-590-7343, or via the FDA Thai Facebook page. -- 2025-01-20

Bangkok's Chatuchak Area a Contender for F1 Race in 2027 ASEAN NOW composite for reference only. A bold and thrilling plan is in motion as Thailand positions Bangkok's bustling Chatuchak area to host a Formula 1 race in 2027. The vision for a screaming city race along the arterial Vibhavadi Rangsit Road is spearheaded by the Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT), as revealed by its governor, Kongsak Yodmanee. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349260-bangkoks-chatuchak-area-a-contender-for-f1-race-in-2027/

ASEAN NOW composite for reference only. A bold and thrilling plan is in motion as Thailand positions Bangkok's bustling Chatuchak area to host a Formula 1 race in 2027. The vision for a screaming city race along the arterial Vibhavadi Rangsit Road is spearheaded by the Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT), as revealed by its governor, Kongsak Yodmanee. Buzz around the capital heightened following a recent consultation where stakeholders appraised feasible circuits and possible challenges of transforming the Vibhavadi Rangsit Road for F1 cars. This project resides at the crossroads of multiple state agencies' jurisdictions, underscoring the complexity of the venture. Central to these discussions is Chatuchak, which has emerged as the clear front-runner among five potential sites across Thailand. Its attractiveness is enhanced by a proposed 6-kilometre route weaving through the lush greenness of three significant parks, offering a unique setting that few city races can replicate. The alternatives, while diverse, do not match Chatuchak's allure. These include the strategic U-Tapao Airport and Eastern Aviation City in Rayong, the historically rich Ratchadamnoen Avenue, the bustling vicinity of Bangkok Hua Lamphong Railway Station, and the ever-developing area around Muang Thong Thani. Selecting Chatuchak as the preferred option is just the beginning. The next crucial phase involves presenting this idea to the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA), the global motorsport authority. Following a thorough inspection and evaluation by FIA delegates, Thailand aims to place its official bid to host the race. Should all go well, a final decision might arrive as early as January 2025. Success in securing an F1 slot could deliver an economic windfall, with projections of attracting 300,000 visitors and raking in a staggering 12 billion Thai Baht. This potential influx underscores the strategic merit of the venture, aimed at cementing Thailand's status as a premier world-class destination for international events. The notion of roaring F1 machines against Bangkok's gritty urban backdrop is indeed tantalising. While hurdles remain, especially in orchestrating city logistics on race day, the momentum building around Chatuchak’s candidacy is palpable, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-01-20

Krabi Shop Offers Reward for Capture of Two Foreigners Who Stole Cannabis Jar A cannabis shop in Krabi is offering a 2,000-baht reward for information leading to the capture of two foreign men who stole a jar of cannabis worth 4,000 baht. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349196-krabi-shop-offers-reward-for-capture-of-two-foreigners-who-stole-cannabis-jar/

Elephant Panics at Fireworks Display, Injures Several at Fair video screenshot An elephant startled by fireworks at a fair in Nong Bua Lamphu, caused chaos on the event’s opening night, injuring five people as it ran through the crowd. The incident occurred during the annual tribute event to King Naresuan the Great. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349224-elephant-panics-at-fireworks-display-injures-several-at-fair/

Thaksin to Discuss Global Path for Thai Models with Naomi Campbell Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has revealed plans to meet with global supermodel Naomi Campbell during her upcoming visit to Thailand from 8th to 10th February. This intriguing collaboration aims to help Thai models break into the international fashion scene. Full. story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349232-thaksin-to-discuss-global-path-for-thai-models-with-naomi-campbell/

to continue: Thailand Live Monday 20 January 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1349233-thailand-live-monday-20-january-2025/

Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has revealed plans to meet with global supermodel Naomi Campbell during her upcoming visit to Thailand from 8th to 10th February. This intriguing collaboration aims to help Thai models break into the international fashion scene. Thaksin announced at a rally at Nakhon Phanom University that the initiative seeks to handpick aspiring models to develop their skills, thus providing them with opportunities for better income. He mentioned that the effort would be led by universities in collaboration with local administrative organisations to ensure thorough selection processes. Emphasising the natural Thai beauty, Thaksin stated that they're seeking individuals who possess innate charm and appeal without the need for cosmetic surgery. This search extends beyond gender, welcoming talents from men, women, and non-binary individuals. “We want to show the world authentic Thai beauty,” he remarked, highlighting the potential for successful models to earn millions. Thaksin also assured his commitment to obtaining sponsorship to support the project, which is estimated to require a budget of around 20 million baht. He concluded by sharing his broader vision for boosting the Thai economy and improving the lives of Thai people, stressing his dedication to solving national issues like drug trafficking and phone scams within the year, reported Siam Rath. -- 2025-01-20

File photo for reference only. American and Canadian Tourists Die After Collapsing at Phuket Music Festival Two tourist passed away after collapsing at a music festival in Phuket. Authorities are investigating the cause of death, with an autopsy to be conducted. This is the second recorded foreign death at the music festival, after it was earlier reported that an American had also died. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349234-american-tourist-dies-mysteriously-at-phuket-music-festival/

Heavy rain warning in Thailand as temperatures drop by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) has issued its 8th weather warning for heavy rain, identifying key provinces that will be most affected. Temperatures will drop by 1 to 2 degrees Celsius (°C) across many regions. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349163-heavy-rain-warning-in-thailand-as-temperatures-drop/

Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail by Puntid Tantivangphaisal The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) has issued its 8th weather warning for heavy rain, identifying key provinces that will be most affected. Temperatures will drop by 1 to 2 degrees Celsius (°C) across many regions. A moderate high-pressure system persists over upper Thailand and the South China Sea, causing cooler temperatures in the northern, northeastern, and central areas of Thailand. These regions will experience cold to very cold weather, particularly in mountainous areas where frost is expected. Meanwhile, the east and upper south regions, including Bangkok and its vicinity, will see cool mornings. Residents are advised to dress warmly and be cautious of potential fire hazards due to dry conditions. The northeast monsoon over the lower Gulf of Thailand and southern region remains strong, leading to heavy rain in parts of the lower south. The Gulf of Thailand’s lower section will experience strong winds with waves reaching 2 to 3 metres, exceeding 3 metres in stormy areas. The upper Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea will see waves around 2 metres, with higher surges during storms. Residents in the eastern southern region should be on alert for heavy rain and coastal waves. Seafarers are urged to navigate carefully and avoid sailing in stormy conditions. Small boats in the lower Gulf should stay ashore until today, January 18. Current weather conditions could increase dust accumulation due to moderate air circulation and weakening winds in some areas of upper Thailand. Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Weather forecast The northern region will be cold with morning fog, with temperatures dropping by 1 to 2°C, and lows of 10 to 17°C and highs of 26 to 31°C. Mountain tops will be very cold with frost in some areas, with lows of 2 to 8°C. The northeastern region will experience cold weather, with temperatures decreasing by 1 to 2°C, and lows of 9 to 16°C and highs of 26 to 30°C. Mountain peaks will be very cold, with lows of 6 to 12°C. The central region will have a cool to cold morning, with temperatures dropping by 1 to 2°C, and lows of 15 to 19°C and highs of 30 to 32°C. The eastern region will have a cool morning, with temperatures dropping by 1 to 2°C, and lows of 17 to 22°C and highs of 31 to 33°C. Waves will reach 1 to 2 metres, reaching 2 metres offshore. The southern region (east coast) will be cool in upper areas, with temperatures dropping by 1 to 2°C and thunderstorms in 30% of areas and heavy rain in Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwat. Temperature ranges from lows of 18 to 24°C to highs of 29 to 31°C. Winds will travel at 20 to 35 kilometres per hour (km/h), with waves reaching around 2 metres, exceeding 2 metres in stormy areas. The southern region (west coast) will see thunderstorms in 20% of areas, mainly in Trang and Satun, with temperatures ranging from lows of 23 to 25°C to highs of 30 to 32°C. Waves will reach 1 to 2 metres, and more than 2 metres in stormy areas, reported KhaoSod. Bangkok and vicinity will experience a cool morning, with temperatures dropping by 1 to 2°C, ranging from lows of 18 to 20°C to highs of 31 to 33°C. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-18

Train station construction closes Ratchathewi flyover for 3 years by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Bangkok officials announced the closure of the Ratchathewi intersection flyover for three years to facilitate the construction of the Ratchathewi underground electric train station. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349161-train-station-construction-closes-ratchathewi-flyover-for-3-years/

Photo courtesy of KhaoSod by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Bangkok officials announced the closure of the Ratchathewi intersection flyover for three years to facilitate the construction of the Ratchathewi underground electric train station. The closure, starting today, January 17 at 10pm and lasting until April 30, 2028, is expected to cause significant traffic congestion. City officials are recommending alternative routes to mitigate the impact and are emphasising efforts to manage traffic disruption effectively. Bangkok Deputy Governor Wisanu Subsompol revealed, at the Irawat Pattana Building in Din Daeng, that discussions have been held with the Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand (MRTA) regarding the closure of the Ratchathewi flyover. These discussions stressed the importance of minimising traffic impact by optimising various traffic patterns, including adjustments on Rama 1 Road from Chalerm Phao to Ratchaprasong intersection. This involves three lanes on the Central World side and another three lanes on the National Police Office side, aimed at improving traffic flow in the area. Officials are urged to model and clearly define the operational timeline for these plans. Additional shuttle bus services are to be introduced to further alleviate the situation. Wisanu pointed out that previous proposals focused solely on easing congestion at the Ratchathewi intersection. However, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) seeks to extend the analysis to routes crossing the intersection, including those leading to Rama 4, Sukhumvit, Thonglor, Ekkamai, and Si Ayutthaya roads. Traffic police will be engaged to monitor and help ease congestion, enhancing staff deployment to manage the flow and enforce strict penalties on vehicles obstructing traffic during construction. Acknowledging the inevitable heavy impact on motorists, Wisanu emphasised the need for a multidimensional approach. Photo courtesy of KhaoSod The BMA has proposed that contractors install a traffic signal system responsive to real-time traffic conditions at the Ratchathewi intersection. This system is intended to be integrated into future operational plans. Additionally, adjustments to pavement curbs are being requested to facilitate easier left turns from Si Ayutthaya Road onto Phetchaburi Road. The MRTA has advised alternative routes during the Ratchathewi flyover closure. For those travelling from Nakhon Sawan Road to eastern Bangkok, taking a right at the Nang Loeng intersection onto Phitsanulok Road, then a left at the Yommarat intersection to use the Sirirat Expressway and exiting at Rama 9 Road is recommended. Alternatively, travellers can take Si Ayutthaya Road by turning right at Nang Loeng intersection, left at Urupong intersection onto Rama 6 Road, and then right at Si Ayutthaya intersection, continuing on Chatuchak Road to Rama 9 Road. Another route for those on Ratchadamnoen Nok Road is to take a right in front of the Royal Plaza onto Si Ayutthaya Road, left at Wat Benja intersection onto Rama 5 Road, and right at Ratchawithi intersection to pass the Victory Monument and continue on Din Daeng Road to Rama 9 Road. These routes aim to direct traffic towards eastern Bangkok during the long-term construction period, reported KhaoSod. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-18

Fed up! Indian Tourists Caught Urinating at Pattaya Beach, Sparking Outrage Picture courtesy: AMARIN TV During the early hours of 16th January, a group of Indian tourists was caught on video displaying inappropriate behaviour at Pattaya Beach in Chonburi, Thailand. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349158-fed-up indian-tourists-caught-urinating-at-pattaya-beach-sparking-outrage/

Picture courtesy: AMARIN TV During the early hours of 16th January, a group of Indian tourists was caught on video displaying inappropriate behaviour at Pattaya Beach in Chonburi, Thailand. A Thai holidaymaker recorded the incident, where 5-6 men urinated into the sea in clear view of numerous other tourists. The video has rapidly spread, causing outrage amongst residents and visitors alike. The Thai observer discreetly captured the footage as the tourists openly relieved themselves before casually regrouping and dispersing along the beach. Picture courtesy: AMARIN TV This incident has sparked discussions about the need for increased supervision to prevent such behaviour, especially in a diverse and popular tourist destination like Pattaya. In response to this recent incident, local residents and business owners have voiced concerns about the impact of such behaviours on Pattaya's image as a world-renowned holiday spot. This isn’t an isolated event, as reports of tourists behaving inappropriately have surfaced before, pushing for more consistent enforcement of public behaviour guidelines. Authorities have been urged to increase the presence of patrols along the beach to deter such actions and safeguard the environment and comfort of both tourists and locals. Suggestions include installing additional signage in multiple languages to inform visitors of local customs and regulations, and deploying volunteers or beach wardens to monitor activity and offer guidance, reprted Amarin TV. -- 2025-01-18

Thai Minister Asserts No Plans to Deport Uyghurs to China Amid Govt Pressure Immigration Detention Centre. Picture courtesy: NDTV Thai Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai has made a firm statement denying any plans to deport Uyghur refugees to China, amidst rising concerns and pressures from international bodies. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349155-thai-minister-asserts-no-plans-to-deport-uyghurs-to-china-amid-govt-pressure/

Immigration Detention Centre. Picture courtesy: NDTV Thai Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai has made a firm statement denying any plans to deport Uyghur refugees to China, amidst rising concerns and pressures from international bodies. On Friday, Phumtham addressed a Facebook post by Fair Party's MP Kanawee Suebsaeng which suggested that the deportation issue was on the agenda of the National Security Council (NSC) meeting. Phumtham questioned the origin of Kanawee's information, confirming that while the matter was mentioned at the meeting, there are no immediate deportation plans. This situation gained attention after the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees voiced apprehensions regarding the potential deportation of Uyghurs. Phumtham reiterated that any steps taken would be firmly rooted in Thailand's legal frameworks to prevent international disputes. Officials have been instructed to carefully assess and ensure all actions are compliant with both national and international law. Currently, the focus is on 48 Uyghur detainees held in a Bangkok immigration centre. The saga of Uyghur refugees in Thailand dates back to 2015 when mass deportations to Turkey and China sparked global criticism. Cautious after the backlash, Thailand has since been reluctant to make any bold moves concerning Uyghur asylum seekers. The group "Save Uyghurs," allied with Justice For All, issued a stark warning to the Thai government on 10th January, calling for the cessation of deportation plans. Their statement highlighted the risk to the Uyghurs' lives, should they be sent back to China, a move they believe would grossly violate international human rights conventions. Recent reports from Justice For All suggest that Uyghur detainees in Bangkok claim pressure from Thai officials to fill out deportation paperwork, initially framed as a voluntary measure. This process reportedly intensified on 9th January, leading to detainees undertaking a hunger strike in protest. The detainees are part of an initial group of approximately 300 Uyghurs who fled China's Xinjiang region in 2013, seeking asylum. They have been living in detention in Thailand for nearly a decade, their fate unresolved as the government navigates international pressures and local legal stipulations. Though Phumtham has dismissed any imminent deportation actions, the presence of the Office of the Attorney-General at the NSC meeting suggests that legal frameworks and options are actively being reviewed. This development underlines the complexity and sensitive nature of the situation, as Thailand remains under scrutiny from the global community. The government's next steps are likely to be closely watched, both domestically and internationally, reported The Nation. -- 2025-01-18

Anutin Targets Cross-Border Scammers After Personal Experience Anutin Charnvirakul. File photo courtesy: Siam Rath Thailand's Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister, Anutin Charnvirakul, has shared his personal encounter with call centre scammers, highlighting the pervasive problem and pledging decisive action to curb such illegal activities. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349152-anutin-targets-cross-border-scammers-after-personal-experience/