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Chinese Woman Seriously Hurt as Car Hits Her Motorbike in Patong Picture courtesy: Facebook Phuket Hot News A Chinese woman was left with serious injuries after a car crashed into her motorbike in Patong. The incident occurred on Muean Ngern Road and also involved a construction worker from Myanmar who was hurt. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327116-chinese-woman-seriously-hurt-as-car-hits-her-motorbike-in-patong/

A Chinese woman was left with serious injuries after a car crashed into her motorbike in Patong. The incident occurred on Muean Ngern Road and also involved a construction worker from Myanmar who was hurt. The emergency services were called to the scene after a sedan collided with a construction vehicle and the motorbike. The motorbike sustained significant damage, while the Chinese woman was thrown down a hill from the impact. A Myanmar man working at the site was also injured. The sedan's driver, a Thai woman, suffered minor injuries. All injured individuals were taken to a nearby hospital for treatment. Witnesses reported that the sedan appeared to have difficulty slowing down while going downhill, causing it to veer into the opposite lane and hit the motorbike and the construction worker. Picture courtesy: Facebook Phuket Hot News -- 2024-05-13 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Finance Ministry Moves to Introduce 7% VAT on Inexpensive Imported Items File photo for reference only courtesy: Thai Rath The Finance Ministry is set to present a proposal this week to revise the Revenue Code, imposing a 7% value added tax (VAT) on all imported goods valued under 1,500 baht. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327114-finance-ministry-moves-to-introduce-7-vat-on-inexpensive-imported-items/

The Finance Ministry is set to present a proposal this week to revise the Revenue Code, imposing a 7% value added tax (VAT) on all imported goods valued under 1,500 baht. This move aims to level the playing field between local suppliers, who are already subject to VAT, and online overseas sellers who have been exempt from this tax. Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat explained that once the cabinet approves the draft, it will undergo review by the Council of State before being officially announced in the Royal Gazette for implementation. Many countries have already begun to tax online purchases of foreign goods, and this adjustment in Thailand will help local businesses compete more fairly. Initially, the Customs Department will be responsible for collecting the 7% VAT and passing it on to the Revenue Department. Future discussions will explore the possibility of involving online platform operators in the collection process. File photo for reference only courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-05-13 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

PM Srettha Discusses Cannabis Classification Concerns Amid Coalition Tensions Picture courtesy: Daily News Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin addressed growing concerns about the potential reclassification of cannabis during a visit to Kanchanaburi. There are fears of tensions within the coalition government over this issue. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327113-pm-srettha-discusses-cannabis-classification-concerns-amid-coalition-tensions/

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin addressed growing concerns about the potential reclassification of cannabis during a visit to Kanchanaburi. There are fears of tensions within the coalition government over this issue. Srettha stated that discussions with Minister of the Interior, Anutin Charnvirakul, had not yet taken place, but emphasized the importance of putting the Thai people first. He noted that further details would be studied by relevant agencies if cannabis were to be classified as a narcotic illegal drug. The Prime Minister acknowledged the need for a thorough review of the situation and confirmed that Minister of Public Health Somsak Thepsuthin would provide more insights in the future. There have been reported tensions within the government on the matter, with Srettha expressing gratitude towards Anutin for supporting the right to protest. He also assured that there would be no internal conflict among the coalition parties. Previously, Srettha had taken a more decisive stance on criminalizing cannabis, but appears to be stepping back to allow for further discussions and considerations based on public opinion. Pro-cannabis activists have voiced their opposition to any plans of recriminalizing cannabis, with warnings of potential protests and legal actions. Meanwhile, a community enterprise marijuana plantation in Nakhon Ratchasima has faced challenges due to the oversaturation of the market following the decriminalization in 2022. The Chairman of the network highlighted difficulties in selling products and called for government support to mitigate losses. The proposal to reclassify cannabis remains a contentious issue, with differing opinions on its potential impact on the market and those involved in the industry. Picture courtesy: Daily News -- 2024-05-13 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Russian Man Held After Disturbance at Pattaya Hotel Picture courtesy: The Pattaya News A Russian man was arrested following a commotion at a hotel in Pattaya. The incident took place on Saturday evening after the man allegedly stole a phone from a local before causing a disturbance at a nearby hotel. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327112-russian-man-held-after-disturbance-at-pattaya-hotel/

A Russian man was arrested following a commotion at a hotel in Pattaya. The incident took place on Saturday evening after the man allegedly stole a phone from a local before causing a disturbance at a nearby hotel. Reportedly under the influence of alcohol and displaying erratic behavior, the man ran into the hotel, where he was not a guest, and barricaded himself in a bathroom. Despite attempts by police to negotiate, the man refused to cooperate and officers were forced to use pepper spray to detain him. The man, believed to be in his 30s, is currently in police custody and is facing charges of disorderly conduct and public nuisance. The motive behind his actions remains unknown. Picture courtesy: The Pattaya News -- 2024-05-13 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

61 Dead from Heat Stroke in Thailand: Warning Signs and First Aid Advice Picture courtesy: Thai PBS Over the first four months of this year, sixty-one people tragically lost their lives to heat stroke in Thailand, with thirty-three of those fatalities occurring in the north-eastern region. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327111-61-dead-from-heat-stroke-in-thailand-warning-signs-and-first-aid-advice/

Picture courtesy: Thai PBS Over the first four months of this year, sixty-one people tragically lost their lives to heat stroke in Thailand, with thirty-three of those fatalities occurring in the north-eastern region. Dr. Apichart Wachiraphan, deputy director-general of the Disease Control Department, revealed that most victims were elderly but still working, particularly those in farming and manual labor roles, with a higher proportion of males succumbing to the heat. The main risk factors identified for heat stroke deaths include heavy alcohol consumption (62.1%), underlying health conditions (49.2%), and outdoor work (27.6%). Dr. Wachiraphan emphasized key symptoms to watch for, such as high body temperature without sweating, rapid heartbeat, headaches, incoherent speech, or fainting, urging immediate action if these signs are observed. In cases of suspected heat stroke, he advised placing the person in a cool, shaded area, lying them down with legs raised, and applying cold towels or ice packs to help lower body temperature. It's crucial to provide water or electrolyte drinks if the person is conscious and seek urgent medical attention. Furthermore, Dr. Wachiraphan stressed the danger of leaving children or pets in unventilated cars under the scorching sun, where temperatures can quickly become life-threatening. To reduce the risk of heat stroke, he advised avoiding outdoor activities during the hottest hours, especially between 11 am and 3 pm, when the sun's rays are most intense. -- 2024-05-13 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Police Probe Bangkok Security Guard's Drainage Hideout Picture courtesy: Khaosod A security guard in Bangkok was rescued after spending four days hiding in a drainage pipe, claiming he was fleeing individuals who threatened him. Rescuers pulled him out and rushed him to Petchawet Hospital. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327110-police-probe-bangkok-security-guards-drainage-hideout/

A security guard in Bangkok was rescued after spending four days hiding in a drainage pipe, claiming he was fleeing individuals who threatened him. Rescuers pulled him out and rushed him to Petchawet Hospital. Yosakorn, the security guard, shared his harrowing ordeal with police, recounting how he sought refuge in the drainage system to avoid harm from people allegedly pursuing him. However, his story appeared muddled at times, with lapses in memory and unclear details. Yosakorn claimed he left his home to collect a debt but ended up in a situation where he felt threatened by a group of people and police officers. In a state of panic, he sought refuge in the drainage and remained hidden until his rescue. Authorities, led by Police Colonel Apichai Hualjit and Police Lieutenant Colonel Manoon Homlaor, are investigating the incident. They are reviewing CCTV footage from the area to corroborate Yosakorn's claims and gather more information. The circumstances surrounding Yosakorn's ordeal remain under scrutiny as police work to piece together the events that led to his drastic decision to hide in the drainage. Picture courtesy: Khaosod -- 2024-05-13 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Remains of Missing Korean Man Discovered in Chon Buri Reservoir Picture courtesy: Siam Rath A disturbing discovery unfolded in Chon Buri as authorities stumbled upon a human body encased in concrete inside a 200-liter barrel at the Map Prachan reservoir in Bang Laung district. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327109-remains-of-missing-korean-man-discovered-in-chon-buri-reservoir/

A disturbing discovery unfolded in Chon Buri as authorities stumbled upon a human body encased in concrete inside a 200-liter barrel at the Map Prachan reservoir in Bang Laung district. The remains are believed to belong to a 34-year-old Korean man who had been reported missing earlier. Roh Eui Jong went missing on May 3, prompting an extensive search effort. The situation took a grim turn when investigators found that all of the victim's fingers had been severed, likely in an attempt to hinder identification. Concerns escalated when Roh's mother, residing in South Korea, received a troubling call from her son's LINE number. The caller, who remains unidentified, demanded a ransom of 3 million baht (about US$82,000) and threatened harm if the payment was not made by May 8. The ransom was purportedly to cover the costs of drugs allegedly disposed of by Roh in a river. In response to the alarming situation, the South Korean embassy in Bangkok intervened, prompting collaboration between the Metropolitan Police Bureau and Chon Buri police. Based on the trace of the call, Roh's movements, and CCTV footage analysis, detectives narrowed their focus to the Bang Lamung area. The probe led them to a rented house where the suspects were seen on camera, later transiting to a white pickup truck. Subsequently, they were caught on video purchasing a barrel and other supplies from a nearby shop. Nittaya Chanprung, the shop owner, recalled a foreigner buying a large plastic barrel, ropes, and scissors on May 3 without raising any red flags. The security footage from the store was obtained by investigators to aid in the case. Picture courtesy: Siam Rath -- 2024-05-13 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Airways' staggering journey from bankruptcy to recovery Picture courtesy: Wikimedia Thai Airways International has announced plans to finalize its restructuring efforts later this year, marking a remarkable comeback from the financial woes brought on by the Covid-19 pandemic. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327108-thai-airways-staggering-journey-from-bankruptcy-to-recovery/

Thai Airways International has announced plans to finalize its restructuring efforts later this year, marking a remarkable comeback from the financial woes brought on by the Covid-19 pandemic. The airline, based in Bangkok, has been working tirelessly to reduce its debts and revamp its operations amid a sharp decline in air travel caused by the global health crisis. With hopes high for a return to profitability, Thai Airways recently reported positive Q1 2024 results, signaling a promising path forward as it aims to relist on the stock market and regain its former standing in the industry. Despite facing bankruptcy protection in 2020, Thai Airways has undergone significant changes over the past four years, implementing a wide-ranging restructuring plan to revitalize the company. While the airline managed to stay profitable in Q1 2024, challenges remain, including rising operating costs and a decrease in restructuring gains that led to an 80% drop in net profit compared to the previous year. However, the airline saw an 11% increase in revenues, supported by a rise in passenger numbers. Looking ahead, Thai Airways is looking to expand its operations with new European routes and the addition of more Boeing and Airbus aircraft to its fleet. Picture courtesy: Wikimedia -- 2024-05-13 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

to continue: Thailand Live Monday 13 May 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1327107-thailand-live-monday-13-may-2024/

A 60-year-old New Zealander, Mr. Corrine, has been nabbed by immigration officers in the popular Thai holiday spot of Pattaya for overstaying his visa by almost six years. Kiwi held in Pattaya for overstaying visa by six years Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327080-kiwi-held-in-pattaya-for-overstaying-visa-by-six-years/ Immigration Police Picture courtesy: Chiang Rai Times

A 60-year-old New Zealander, Mr. Corrine, has been nabbed by immigration officers in the popular Thai holiday spot of Pattaya for overstaying his visa by almost six years. The arrest took place at a corner shop near Jomtien Beach, confirmed Immigration Police. This detainment comes as part of a crackdown operation, labeled “X-ray,” which targets visa violators along with foreigners involved in criminal activities or encroaching on Thai-specific jobs. Mr. Corrine’s overstaying record amounted to a staggering 2,173 days, as per police sources. During interrogation, he admitted to flying under the radar for nearly six years by keeping a low profile and steering clear of making local connections. He confessed to venturing outside his abode only during evenings to procure essentials, all in a bid to avoid run-ins with law enforcement. Having been alerted to his breach, Immigration Police have apprised him of his offense. He currently remains in Pattaya awaiting the legal processes for deportation. Immigration Police Picture courtesy: Chiang Rai Times -- 2024-05-12 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Wissanu Krea-ngam named Bangkok Post Chairman File photo courtesy: Thai Rath Former Deputy Prime Minister and noted legal acumen, Wissanu Krea-ngam, habitually navigating General Prayut Chan-o-cha's government's political intricacies, now finds himself at the helm of the prestigious Bangkok Post. Fulll story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327031-wissanu-krea-ngam-named-bangkok-post-chairman/

File photo courtesy: Thai Rath Former Deputy Prime Minister and noted legal acumen, Wissanu Krea-ngam, habitually navigating General Prayut Chan-o-cha's government's political intricacies, now finds himself at the helm of the prestigious Bangkok Post. The board of directors confirmed Wissanu's new role as the Bangkok Post's Chairman this Wednesday. This Southern-born legal eagle, well-known within the capital's media sphere and beyond, sees a career shift after nearly three decades of public service. Wissanu, familiar to reporters for his work in government, particularly his strategic orchestration of General Prayut Chan-o-cha's two-term government, also served under former Premier Thaksin Shinawatra before exiting public life in September 2023 when contemporary management assumed office. Aged 73, Wissanu holds an enviable position as one of Thailand's most respected legal minds. His voluminous governmental experience has equipped him with an irreplaceable skill set. Working predominantly behind the scenes, he's borne witness and contributed to numerous pivotal governmental procedures since 1992. His unique combination of legal wisdom and hands-on political knowledge is expected to usher in a new era at the Bangkok Post. With his refined skills and unrivalled expertise, observers predict he will preserve and enhance the longstanding reputation of the 75-year-old iconic broadsheet. Upon his appointment, Wissanu affirmed, "I am delighted to take up this stewardship and look forward to fostering a culture of insightful and balanced journalism at the Bangkok Post. It is my sincere endeavour to steer it towards even greater heights of journalistic excellence." His upcoming tenure sparks curiosity within the media sector and Thai political sphere alike. His vast experience, coupled with his clear-cut vision for the paper, provides an intriguing premise as the Bangkok Post embarks on this new chapter under Wissanu's guidance. -- 2024-05-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Mother Exposes Phoney Facebook Adoption Ring Using Her Children's Photos Picture courtesy: Khaosod NATIONAL - A shocking adoption scam that exploits the imagery of innocent families has recently been unveiled on Facebook by a horrified mother. The fraudulent posts offered the adoption of children depicted in stolen photos, a chilling revelation that has sparked widespread public outrage and concern. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327030-mother-exposes-phoney-facebook-adoption-ring-using-her-childrens-photos/

Picture courtesy: Khaosod NATIONAL - A shocking adoption scam that exploits the imagery of innocent families has recently been unveiled on Facebook by a horrified mother. The fraudulent posts offered the adoption of children depicted in stolen photos, a chilling revelation that has sparked widespread public outrage and concern. The duplicitous posts circulated through Facebook groups, banking on emotionally charged pleas like, “Looking for a loving home for this precious girl”, accompanied by photographs of cheerful, seemingly well-cared-for children. These posts would then go on to promulgate specifics about adoption fees and the preferential provisions for the child's education till completion. Public outcry was immediate and vociferous with netizens condemning the illicit operation and raising alarms about the unsavoury connections it has with the sinister world of human trafficking. As the scandal unravelled online, it was discovered that similar scams had previously come under the scanner and many more were covertly operating in the shadows of the internet. In a fresh update, Chompunoot Phakaew, a Facebook user, posted about her disconcerting experience of accidentally stumbling upon the scam and finding out her family had been unknowingly cast as characters in this wicked ploy. Her shock was exacerbated when she found out that her children's photos had been used to feign adoption offers tied to illicit financial transactions. Phakaew assured the public that her family had no association with the scam, explaining that her child was biologically hers and was never up for adoption. She extended a warning to others, urging them not to fall prey to such deceptive activities, and decried the malevolent notion of selling off a child borne with love and care. This harrowing revelation, just ahead of Thailand’s National Children’s Day, underscores the pressing need for improved child security systems. As the nation channels resources towards their betterment, a firm eye must be kept on cyber activity to ensure no child falls victim to such sinister scams. -- 2024-05-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai U-Turn on Cannabis: Protests and Lawsuits Loom Stock photo credit: openverse Thailand's recent decision to reclassify cannabis as a narcotic, led by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, has sparked widespread outrage, threatening to ignite street protests and cause a flurry of lawsuits brought by an industry built on the promise of decriminalisation. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327028-thai-u-turn-on-cannabis-protests-and-lawsuits-loom/

Stock photo credit: openverse Thailand's recent decision to reclassify cannabis as a narcotic, led by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, has sparked widespread outrage, threatening to ignite street protests and cause a flurry of lawsuits brought by an industry built on the promise of decriminalisation. Two years ago, Thailand decriminalised cannabis, classing it as a 'controlled herb' and leaving its recreational use unrestricted. The move spurred the creation of almost 8000 dispensaries dotting every corner of the country. Yet, these shop owners now face the spectre of complete re-criminalisation with Thavisin's order to redraw cannabis as a 'category five' narcotic. This change would redefine the mere act of “production, sale, import, export, or possession” of cannabis as a criminal offence under Thai drug law. Medical use would remain legal. Thailand's burgeoning cannabis market, promoted as a boost for agricultural growth and wellness tourism, stands aghast. Advocacy group, ‘Writing Thailand’s Cannabis Future’, has called for a protest in Bangkok on May 16 whilst dispensary owners pledge legal action. Rattapon Sanrak, owner of Highland Cafe, sternly noted: "We’re all doing everything by the book but then suddenly the book is going to change.” The pubic U-turn reflects the ruling Pheu Thai Party's aggressive anti-drug stance. Recently, Thavisin set law enforcement and local authorities a 90-day deadline to crack down on drugs in 25 identified 'red zones'. Political rival Bhumjaithai Party have challenged this strategy, espousing a regulatory approach over further criminalisation. The seesaw of cannabis policy, from decriminalisation to the looming threat of re-criminalisation, seems set to harm Thailand’s nascent cannabis industry struggling under legal uncertainties. The potential penalties for possession of cannabis post-reclassification are severe, with possible imprisonment of up to 15 years and fines reaching 1.5 million baht ($40,600). Industry insiders fear the move will damage foreign investor confidence, cripple the industry, and plunge cannabis distribution back into the shadowy reaches of Thailand's underworld. They are urging health authorities to use science and facts to compare the effects of cannabis to those of alcohol and tobacco, and base their drug classification decisions on such comparisons. Rattapon of Highland Cafe warns: “Instead of regulating the industry properly, you’re choosing to close it up and make it worse by pushing it underground." With over a million households registered to plant cannabis, the stakes are high and consequences could be game-changing. -- 2024-05-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe