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Thai Cabinet Greenlights Draft Entertainment Complex Bill, Online Gambling Legalisation Looms Casino file photo courtesy: Wikipedia Thailand's plans to legalise online gambling took a significant step forward as the Cabinet provisionally approved the draft Entertainment Complex Act. If given the green light, this bold move aims to boost the economy while addressing societal concerns. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348711-thai-cabinet-greenlights-draft-entertainment-complex-bill-online-gambling-legalisation-loom/

to continue: Thailand Live Tuesday 14 January 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1348705-thailand-live-tuesday-14-january-2025/

Dramatic Rescue at Sea: 30 Tourists Pulled to Safety After Catamaran Sinks Off Phuket Thirty lives were saved in a dramatic sea rescue after a tourist catamaran, the Emiray 888, began taking on water on January 13 and eventually sank near Racha Island. The vessel, which had departed from Chalong Pier in Phuket earlier in the day for a one-day excursion to Racha Island, encountered trouble approximately 1.6 nautical miles off the island’s northern coast. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348695-dramatic-rescue-at-sea-30-tourists-pulled-to-safety-after-catamaran-sinks-off-phuket/

PM Paetongtarn Denies Allegations of Concealing 4.4 Billion Baht FILE PHOTO - Thailand's Prime Minister-designate Paetongtarn Shinawatra, with members of Pheu Thai party talks to reporters during a press conference at Pheu Thai party headquarters in Bangkok, Thailand, Friday, Aug. 16, 2024. (AP Photo/Wason Wanichakorn) Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has firmly denied accusations of concealing a staggering 4.4 billion Baht in cash, allegedly linked to her father, Thaksin Shinawatra, the influential Pheu Thai figurehead. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348716-pm paetongtarn-denies-allegations-of-concealing-44-billion-baht/

FILE PHOTO - Thailand's Prime Minister-designate Paetongtarn Shinawatra, with members of Pheu Thai party talks to reporters during a press conference at Pheu Thai party headquarters in Bangkok, Thailand, Friday, Aug. 16, 2024. (AP Photo/Wason Wanichakorn) Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has firmly denied accusations of concealing a staggering 4.4 billion Baht in cash, allegedly linked to her father, Thaksin Shinawatra, the influential Pheu Thai figurehead. Addressing reporters at Government House today, Paetongtarn assured that her financial declarations to the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) were complete and accurate. She emphasised the transparency of her reports, dismissing claims of hiding familial wealth. The prime minister explained that a significant portion of her financial figures stem from "borrowings" tied to family members, including her mother, Podjaman na Pombejra, brother Panthongtae Shinawatra, and sister Pintongta Kunakornwong. However, she chose not to divulge details regarding the utilisation of the borrowed funds. According to the NACC, Paetongtarn's financial disclosures reveal assets amounting to 13.8 billion Baht, with liabilities totalling 4.4 billion Baht, aligning with the "borrowed" sums from her family circle. Her wealth portfolio comprises diverse holdings, including 1.08 billion Baht in bank deposits, 358 million Baht in property and concession rights, and 583 million Baht in real estate. Notably, her portfolio also features property holdings worth approximately 30 million Baht in Japan's Hokkaido prefecture and 9.9 million Baht in Khlong Luang, Pathum Thani. The prime minister's assets extend to an impressive collection of 23 luxury vehicles, including a Bentley priced at 10.6 million Baht, a Rolls-Royce valued at 6.7 million Baht, and a Tesla car worth 3.19 million Baht. These allegations come in the wake of historical scrutiny faced by her father, Thaksin Shinawatra, who governed Thailand from 2001 until his ousting in a coup in 2006. Previously, Thaksin faced accusations involving the concealment of 46 billion Baht, charges from which he was narrowly exonerated by the Constitutional Court. In an 8:7 ruling, the court acknowledged discrepancies in asset arrangements totalling 76 billion Baht but concluded there was no premeditated intent to deceive, thus dismissing the case. As Paetongtarn deals with these high-stakes allegations, her emphasis on transparency and adherence to official processes underscores her commitment to integrity as Thailand's prime minister, reported Thai Newsroom. -- 2025-01-13

Thai Cabinet Greenlights Draft Entertainment Complex Bill, Online Gambling Legalisation Looms Casino file photo courtesy: Wikipedia Thailand's plans to legalise online gambling took a significant step forward as the Cabinet provisionally approved the draft Entertainment Complex Act. If given the green light, this bold move aims to boost the economy while addressing societal concerns. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348711-thai-cabinet-greenlights-draft-entertainment-complex-bill-online-gambling-legalisation-loom/

Casino file photo courtesy: Wikipedia Thailand's plans to legalise online gambling took a significant step forward as the Cabinet provisionally approved the draft Entertainment Complex Act. If given the green light, this bold move aims to boost the economy while addressing societal concerns. Today’s Cabinet meeting, presided over by Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, saw the endorsement of the draft Entertainment Complex Act, introduced by the Finance Ministry. The Council of State, a key legal advisory body, will now scrutinise the details and establish guidelines for managing such complexes, including the creation of a policy and executive committee to oversee operations. Simultaneously, the Digital Economy and Society Ministry is considering legalising online gambling, a move believed to invigorate the economy and curb illegal gambling-related issues. Minister Prasert Jantararuangthong stated that a detailed study is underway, noting the potential economic benefits. According to Krungsri Securities, the online gambling sector in Thailand shows promising growth. Analyst reports suggest this topic might reach the Cabinet's agenda soon. The booming online gambling market, already valued at over 19.569 billion Baht (around USD 546 million) as of last year, demonstrates an annual growth rate of 5.34%. Expectations are high, with projections indicating a growth to approximately 24.085 billion Baht (around USD 672 million) by 2028. The financial markets are reacting with interest. Digital technology and ICT firms such as Samart Corporation Plc (SAMART), Berli Jucker Plc (BE8), and Bluebik Group Plc (BBIK) are poised to benefit significantly if this legislation passes. Analysts point out that integrating online gambling into the formal economy could see the sector grow at an estimated 7.3% per annum. Legalising online gambling entails revising existing secondary laws, potentially bypassing the lengthy parliamentary process through a Royal Decree. This strategic approach could streamline integration and yield economic advantages more swiftly. As Thailand inches closer to a legalised online gambling framework, the government's strategy reflects a calculated effort to balance economic stimulation with careful regulatory oversight. Whether this approach succeeds will depend on legislative refinement and market reception, marking a transformative phase for the country's economic landscape and societal management of gambling activities, reported Thai Newsroom. -- 2025-01-13

Heartbroken Irish mum honours ‘special son’ lost on Koh Tao Photo of Bob Scott Picture courtesy of the Irish Examiner The mother of a young Irishman paid tribute to her “special son” who died last week while scuba diving in Thailand. The heartbroken mother is now trying to repatriate the body of her beloved 21 year old son from County Clare, whose life was tragically cut short on Koh Tao. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348669-heartbroken-irish-mum-honours-‘special-son’-lost-on-koh-tao/

Picture courtesy of the Irish Examiner Photo of Bob Scott The mother of a young Irishman paid tribute to her “special son” who died last week while scuba diving in Thailand. The heartbroken mother is now trying to repatriate the body of her beloved 21 year old son from County Clare, whose life was tragically cut short on Koh Tao. Robert “Robby” Kinlan, died unexpectedly on January 9 while on the tropical paradise island of Koh Tao. Kinlan’s remains currently lie in a serene temple on the island of Koh Tao, nestled on the western shore of the Gulf of Thailand. Having recently celebrated the achievement of completing an advanced freediving course, the young Irishman was living out his dreams amidst the azure waves of Koh Tao. In an effort to bring him back to Ireland, Kinlan’s friends from the Dive Academy in Inishmore, where he was a cherished member, have launched a heartfelt GoFundMe campaign. The campaign aims to support his grieving mother, Tracy King, who shared a poignant tribute on social media, accompanied by photos of the tranquil temple where her son rests. “RIP to my precious son Robby. He is resting in this beautiful temple in Koh Tao, Thailand, before his journey back to Ireland. Thanks to all friends and family. Special thanks to the Guziuk family at Dive Academy Inis Mor.” Picture of Robby Kinlan’s body at a temple in Koh Tao courtesy of the Irish Examiner Kinlan’s friend remains on Koh Tao to ensure he’s “not alone” until his journey home starts. The Guziuk family lovingly described Kinlan as a young man who “lit up every room with his kindness and warmth,” capturing the essence of his generous spirit. “Robby wasn’t just a friend, he was someone who truly brightened every space with his kindness and warmth. He was always the first to help others, prioritising their needs over his own without a moment’s hesitation. “In Thailand, he was surrounded by many friends and was living his dream, spending his days doing what he loved: freediving and scuba diving in the place that made him happiest. “Now, we seek to honour Robby’s memory in the most meaningful way by supporting his mum and family. We want to offer everyone the chance to say their goodbyes and celebrate the incredible person he was. Any support, no matter how small, would mean the world to his family during this unimaginably difficult time.” The community’s generosity has been overwhelming, raising over 30,000 euros (1.07 million baht) to date in the effort to bring Robby’s remains home, reported the Irish Examiner. If you wish to contribute to this heartfelt cause, you can donate via the GoFundMe page. Details surrounding his death have yet to be released by Thai police. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-13

Thailand braces for cold snap with Bangkok at 16 degrees Photo of Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Bharath Mohan, Unsplash The Thai Meteorological Department of Thailand (TMD) today, January 13, issued a weather forecast indicating a further drop in temperatures across Thailand, with Bangkok experiencing lows of 16 degrees Celsius and strong winds. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348661-thailand-braces-for-cold-snap-with-bangkok-at-16-degrees/

Picture courtesy of Bharath Mohan, Unsplash Photo of Bright Choomanee The Thai Meteorological Department of Thailand (TMD) today, January 13, issued a weather forecast indicating a further drop in temperatures across Thailand, with Bangkok experiencing lows of 16 degrees Celsius and strong winds. The upper northern and northeastern regions are expected to see cold to very cold weather, with the highest areas experiencing even colder temperatures. The department advises residents in these regions to take health precautions due to the drop in temperature and to be wary of potential fire hazards due to dry and windy conditions. The decrease in temperature is attributed to a high-pressure system or cold air mass covering the country. The northeast monsoon, currently affecting the Gulf of Thailand, the south, and the Andaman Sea, is expected to bring thunderstorms to some southern areas. The Gulf of Thailand is forecasted to have strong winds and waves reaching 2 to 4 metres, with areas experiencing thunderstorms seeing waves over 4 metres. The Andaman Sea will have waves 1 to 2 metres high, increasing to 2 to 3 metres in more distant areas, and over 3 metres in stormy regions. The department’s 11th announcement warned residents along the eastern coast of the southern provinces to be cautious of high waves hitting the shores. Seafarers are advised to exercise caution and avoid sailing in stormy areas, with fishing activities in the Gulf and the Andaman Sea suggested to be suspended until today, January 13. Air quality is currently rated from good to moderate in the upper regions of Thailand due to strong winds improving air dispersion. Weather forecast The weather forecast from 6am today to 6am tomorrow outlines that the north will experience cold to very cold weather with temperatures dropping by 1 to 2 degrees Celsius. The lowest temperatures are expected to range from 7 to 14 degrees Celsius, with highs of 24 to 29 degrees. Mountain tops will have freezing conditions, with some areas experiencing ground frost and temperatures ranging from 2 to 7 degrees Celsius. The northeastern region will also see cold to very cold weather with strong winds, with temperatures dropping slightly. Lows are predicted at 6 to 13 degrees Celsius, and highs at 23 to 27 degrees, with mountaintops experiencing lows of 2 to 7 degrees Celsius. The central region will be cool with strong winds and a slight temperature drop, with lows between 14 and 17 degrees Celsius and highs of 26 to 29 degrees. The eastern region will have similar conditions, with temperatures ranging from 14 to 19 degrees Celsius at night and 27 to 30 degrees during the day. Waves are expected to be around 2 metres high, increasing beyond 2 metres offshore. In the southern region (east coast), the upper part will be cool with strong winds and a slight decrease in temperature, while the lower part will see thunderstorms affecting 20% of the area, primarily in Songkhla, Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwat. Temperatures will range from 17 to 25 degrees Celsius at night and 26 to 30 degrees during the day. Winds will be strong, with sea waves 2 to 3 metres high, increasing to more than 3 metres in stormy areas. The southern region (west coast) will experience thunderstorms affecting 10% of the area, mainly in Trang and Satun. Temperatures will range from 22 to 24 degrees Celsius at night and 28 to 32 degrees during the day, with strong winds and sea waves 1 to 2 metres high, increasing to more than 3 metres in stormy areas, reported KhaoSod. Finally, Bangkok and surrounding areas will be cool with strong winds and a slight drop in temperature, with lows of 16 to 19 degrees Celsius and highs of 26 to 31 degrees. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-13

Pheu Thai's Popularity Tested After Thaksin's Rallies in Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai Composite image courtesy: Naewna A recent survey conducted by NIDA Poll has examined the impact of Thaksin Shinawatra's recent campaign rallies in Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai on local support for the Pheu Thai Party. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348654-pheu-thais-popularity-tested-after-thaksins-rallies-in-chiang-mai-and-chiang-rai/

Composite image courtesy: Naewna A recent survey conducted by NIDA Poll has examined the impact of Thaksin Shinawatra's recent campaign rallies in Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai on local support for the Pheu Thai Party. The poll surveyed 1,803 eligible voters from these provinces between 7th and 10th January 2025, assessing how Thaksin's appearance might influence upcoming elections for Provincial Administrative Organisation (PAO) chiefs. In Chiang Mai, opinions were split: - 37.11% stated Thaksin's speech did not affect their decision, as they would not vote for Pheu Thai regardless. - 23.24% felt his rally swayed them towards supporting Pheu Thai. - 17.06% said it made no difference, as they were already planning to vote for Pheu Thai. - 13.59% remained undecided. - 9.00% said Thaksin's rally deterred them from voting for Pheu Thai. When asked whether the PAO elections might influence the next general elections in Chiang Mai, responses were mixed: - 30.37% believed there would be no effect at all. - 28.87% thought it would have a significant impact. - 24.74% felt it would have a moderate effect. - 14.43% anticipated a minimal impact. - 1.59% were indifferent or chose not to respond. For Chiang Rai voters, the survey found: - 33.01% claimed Thaksin's rally did not impact their choice as they were not voting for Pheu Thai anyway. - 26.09% said it positively influenced their decision to support Pheu Thai. - 17.12% were unaffected as they intended to vote for Pheu Thai already. - 14.54% had yet to make a decision. - 9.24% indicated the rally pushed them away from choosing Pheu Thai. The potential impact of the Chiang Rai PAO elections on future general elections showed: - 36.96% foresaw no impact. - 25.95% expected a significant effect. - 20.24% anticipated a moderate impact. - 16.44% predicted a minor effect. - 0.41% had no opinion or were uninterested. These findings reflect a varied response to Thaksin's campaign efforts, questioning whether his rallies still hold the same sway with the electorate, reported Naewna. -- 2025-01-13

Protests Erupt Over Thaksin's Hospital Stay in Thailand File photo In a move likely to stir public debate, a group of protesters is set to deliver an official letter to the Thai government, accusing it of providing former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra with special privileges. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348651-protests-erupt-over-thaksins-hospital-stay-in-thailand/

File photo In a move likely to stir public debate, a group of protesters is set to deliver an official letter to the Thai government, accusing it of providing former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra with special privileges. The controversy stems from Thaksin's extensive stay at the Police General Hospital (PGH), instead of serving his prison sentence, a decision the protesters claim undermines the rule of law and favours political elites. Ex-red-shirt leader Jatuporn Prompan, speaking during a recent Facebook livestream, announced the group's intention to confront the current prime minister personally at Government House on January 21. Their demands revolve around accountability and transparency, particularly concerning the role of those implicated in allowing Thaksin to remain at the hospital rather than in a prison cell. Jatuporn's call for justice echoes wider public sentiment on equal treatment before the law. Jatuporn Prompan. File photo In parallel, the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) has launched an investigation, focusing on a dozen officials from the Department of Corrections (DoC) and the PGH. It's noteworthy that the probe excludes any serving government politicians, raising questions about its scope and implications. Meanwhile, the Medical Council of Thailand (MCT) is conducting a separate inquiry into the ethical conduct of the medical professionals who participated in Thaksin's care. The MCT's investigation, headed by Amorn Leelarasamee, has sought comprehensive documentation from the PGH about Thaksin’s stay, including his medical records, diagnoses, and the identity of all healthcare providers involved. There's an urgency to gather these documents by the end of this week to push forward with the investigation. However, concerns over patient confidentiality might limit the amount of information released. Jatuporn has voiced optimism about the MCT's impending report, suggesting it could substantiate the NACC's findings and shed light on any potential misconduct. As investigations proceed, the outcome may influence public opinion and confidence in the country's institutions. Thaksin, initially sentenced to eight years imprisonment for abuse of power, had his term reduced to one year due to a royal pardon. He occupied a ward on the 14th floor of PGH for nearly six months before being paroled and discharged in February. His one-year sentence officially concluded at the end of August, but the lingering controversy over his hospitalisation remains a contentious issue amongst the Thai public. This unfolding saga captures the intersection of healthcare, politics, and justice, raising vital questions about fairness and transparency in Thailand's legal framework, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-01-13

Picture courtesy of MGR Online by Bright Choomanee A 15 year old student from Dan Makham Tia district in Kanchanaburi province became unconscious after allegedly smoking cannabis at school. The provincial governor has ordered an investigation into the incident, which was initially reported by the local news page Kan News Agency, alleging that a senior student coerced a junior student into using cannabis during a National Children’s Day event. When officials arrived at the student’s home, they met with the boy and his guardians to gather more information. The student, who recently transferred from Chumphon province to a local school in Dan Makham Tia district in the second term of his second year of secondary school, recounted the events of January 10. He explained that he and two friends from a lower grade decided to purchase cannabis from a local vendor without any coercion. Despite never having smoked before, the student admitted to using cannabis three times. After returning to school, the student experienced dizziness and fainted. Teachers and fellow students quickly intervened, and emergency services transported him to Dan Makham Tia Hospital, where he stayed overnight before being discharged. A teacher accompanying the investigation shared that the school generally monitors student attendance closely and restricts exit and entry without permission. However, during the National Children’s Day event, the increased number of attendees, including parents, allowed easier access to and from the school, resulting in the incident. Following the event, school officials contacted the student’s guardians to inform them of his behaviour. The school has since recorded the incident and deducted behaviour points, reported KhaoSod. They plan to implement stricter preventative measures, including daily random urine tests and bag checks upon entry. Meanwhile, the police investigation unit of Dan Makham Tia will continue their investigation to identify and apprehend the cannabis supplier for legal action. Picture courtesy of MGR Online Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-13

Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post by Bright Choomanee A group of Uyghur men, detained in Thailand for more than 10 years, claim that the Thai government is planning to deport them to China, where they risk abuse and torture, according to activists. Senator Angkhana Neelapaijit, former head of the National Human Rights Commission, has urged Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra to clarify any plans regarding their deportation. The Associated Press (AP) has obtained a letter from 43 Uyghur men held at the Suan Phlu immigration detention centre in Bangkok, pleading to halt what they describe as an imminent deportation threat. The letter warns of imprisonment and possible loss of life, urging international human rights organisations to intervene before it is too late. A decade ago, Thailand emerged as a route for Uyghurs escaping repression in China and aiming to reach Turkey, a traditional supporter of Uyghur asylum seekers. The detained group in Bangkok were initially part of a larger group of approximately 350, arrested near the Malaysia border in March 2014. In July 2015, about 170 women and children from this group were released to Turkey. Subsequently, 109 individuals, mostly men, were deported to China, and their current whereabouts are unknown. The remaining detainees were kept in Thailand’s immigration detention, with at least 12 escaping and five dying in detention, including two children. Five of the asylum seekers received prison sentences for a 2020 escape attempt, while 43 remain held without charge under harsh conditions at Suan Phlu. They are denied communication with families, lawyers, or other detainees. Uyghur deportation The National Human Rights Commission reported in 2023 that Thai officials have no plans to release the Uyghurs, as Thailand is not a signatory to the 1951 UN Refugee Convention. Under Thai law, the detention of Uyghurs is considered a national security issue managed by the National Security Council (NSC), preventing access to the National Screening Mechanism that allows refugees to live in the country. Immigration police claim they are trying to care for the detainees as best as possible. Recordings obtained by AP show that on January 8, Uyghur detainees were asked to sign voluntary deportation papers by Thai immigration officials, causing alarm due to similarities with documents signed by those deported to China in 2015. The detainees refused to sign. Three individuals, including a Thai MP, have indicated recent government discussions about deporting Uyghurs to China, although no official directive has been issued. Two sources suggest that the timing coincides with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Thailand and China. They also believe Washington’s response might be muted with the incoming administration of Donald Trump. The Thai and Chinese foreign ministries have not responded to AP’s requests for comment. China labels the Uyghurs as jihadists without presenting evidence, while activists and rights groups insist the men are innocent and face persecution, imprisonment, and possibly death if deported to China. All Uyghurs detained in Thailand have submitted asylum applications to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, verified by AP. However, the UN agency has been barred by the Thai government from visiting the Uyghurs, reported Bangkok Post. A non-governmental organisation report from May last year indicated that the UN agency declined unofficial Thai requests for assistance due to concerns over angering China. The UNHCR did not respond to requests for comment. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-13

Uyghur detainees in Thailand fear imminent deportation to China by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post A group of Uyghur men, detained in Thailand for more than 10 years, claim that the Thai government is planning to deport them to China, where they risk abuse and torture, according to activists. Senator Angkhana Neelapaijit, former head of the National Human Rights Commission, has urged Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra to clarify any plans regarding their deportation. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348629-uyghur-detainees-in-thailand-fear-imminent-deportation-to-china/

Kanchanaburi student faints after cannabis use at school event by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of MGR Online A 15 year old student from Dan Makham Tia district in Kanchanaburi province became unconscious after allegedly smoking cannabis at school. The provincial governor has ordered an investigation into the incident, which was initially reported by the local news page Kan News Agency, alleging that a senior student coerced a junior student into using cannabis during a National Children’s Day event. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348628-kanchanaburi-student-faints-after-cannabis-use-at-school-event/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod by Bright Choomanee A well-known photographer, 46 year old Thanakrit, was apprehended by the Metropolitan Investigation Bureau for distributing obscene images and videos of models on the subscription platform OnlyFans, reportedly earning over 2 million baht (US$57,590). The photographer, known by the nickname Ohm, has previously faced charges of obscenity. The arrest followed a complaint from a model, who alleged that the photographer had coerced her into participating and later discovered her images online. Yesterday, January 11, senior officials, including Police Lieutenant General Siam Boonsom, oversaw the operation. The arrest took place at Thanakrit’s residence in a notable village on Ekkachai Road, Bang Bon district, Bangkok. The accused was charged under Section 287 of the Criminal Code, which penalises those who produce, distribute, or display obscene materials. Further charges under the Computer Crime Act of 2007 were also levied. Thanakrit’s home doubled as a photography studio, where he allegedly captured and distributed lascivious content. Upon searching the premises with a court warrant from the Thonburi Criminal Court, police found evidence, including a Samsung smartphone and computer equipment. The devices contained numerous obscene images, some linked to his OnlyFans account, accessible to subscribers for a fee. Upon interrogation, Thanakrit admitted to operating on OnlyFans for approximately three years, generating significant income. The police have detained him for further legal proceedings at Bang Bon police station. Police Major General Theeradej Thamsutee, Head of the Investigation Bureau, urged caution among models and modelling agencies. He advised thorough discussions regarding contracts and shooting details, recommending bringing a companion to shoots to ensure safety, reported KhaoSod. He warned against trusting photographers without adequate verification, stressing the importance of safeguarding one’s future over financial incentives. Picture courtesy of KhaoSod In related news, Thai police arrested a 46 year old prominent photographer for selling explicit images of models on VK and OnlyFans, earning him hundreds of thousands of baht monthly. He was previously arrested in 2020 for lewd acts involving victims. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-13

Picture courtesy of MNRE Phuket by Bright Choomanee A recent Cabinet decision has lifted the restriction on construction above the 80-metre mark in Phuket, paving the way for increased single-building developments on the island’s hillsides. This change is expected to benefit owners of high-altitude land on the island. The approval of a rezoning proposal by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MNRE) now permits development in Zone 6 of Phuket up to 140 metres above sea level. This zone includes most of the island but excludes coastal areas, the protected Nakkerd Range, and densely populated locations like Phuket Town. The resolution, published in the Government Gazette on December 13, came into effect on December 14 last year. Natthakrit Phonphet, Deputy Director of the MNRE Phuket office, explained that this change replaces a previous restriction from 2017, which had expired. The decision follows extensive public and private sector consultations, particularly benefiting landowners with high-altitude plots who previously faced building restrictions. Police specialist Rakkiat Deetphin from DPT Phuket explained that the main reason for allowing construction above the 80-metre limit was fairness. Many landowners felt their rights were violated as they paid taxes but were unable to utilise their land due to the previous restrictions. Rakkiat added that, unlike Phuket, only Koh Samui has a similar restriction, capping construction at 120 metres above sea level. The new regulations come with specific conditions. Land titles must have been issued before 2017, and only single structures are allowed. These buildings must not exceed six metres in height or cover more than 90 square metres, with 70% of the plot left as green space. Title holders must ensure that half of this area remains unpaved to support natural vegetation. Building restriction Natthakrit emphasised that not all areas deemed suitable will automatically be approved for construction if there are potential risks of flooding or landslides. Impact assessments conducted by the Phuket Provincial Office of the Department of Public Works and Town & Country Planning are mandatory, with specific criteria to meet regarding green spaces and single-building requirements. Maetapong Upatising, President of the Phuket Real Estate Association (P-REA), noted that property values above the 80-metre mark are expected to increase significantly due to the new opportunities for development. In Patong, land values have already risen to between 150 and 200 million baht (US$4.3 and 5.75 million), with areas slightly outside the town ranging from 6 to 8 million baht (US$172,770 to 230,360), depending on demand. Maetapong also highlighted that the new provisions will benefit luxury hotels and housing developments in higher elevations. However, he expressed concerns about developers who might not adhere to the law, stressing the importance of enforcement by local government to maintain a balanced landscape. Pakorn Waraphasakun, Director of DPT Phuket, reiterated that safety is paramount when approving construction above 80 metres. He highlighted potential environmental risks like landslides and flooding, urging that these issues be managed carefully to ensure sustainable development. Pakorn recommended incorporating slope protection in new constructions to mitigate risk. Kongsak Koophongsakorn, President of the Phuket Chamber of Commerce, did not comment directly on the new provisions but announced an upcoming seminar on the topic, emphasising the need for cautious development to prevent environmental degradation, reported The Phuket News. Phattanan Pisutwimol, former President of the P-REA, previously warned against unchecked development that could harm Phuket’s environment, which is vital for attracting tourists and investors. He stressed that while the new rules are intended to safeguard Phuket’s income sources, they might instead threaten them if not managed properly. Picture courtesy of MNRE Phuket Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-13

Phuket lifts building restriction above 80 metres for hillside development by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of MNRE Phuket A recent Cabinet decision has lifted the restriction on construction above the 80-metre mark in Phuket, paving the way for increased single-building developments on the island’s hillsides. This change is expected to benefit owners of high-altitude land on the island. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348626-phuket-lifts-building-restriction-above-80-metres-for-hillside-development/

Photographer arrested for obscene content on OnlyFans, earns over 2 million baht by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A well-known photographer, 46 year old Thanakrit, was apprehended by the Metropolitan Investigation Bureau for distributing obscene images and videos of models on the subscription platform OnlyFans, reportedly earning over 2 million baht (US$57,590). The photographer, known by the nickname Ohm, has previously faced charges of obscenity. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348623-photographer-arrested-for-obscene-content-on-onlyfans-earns-over-2-million-baht/

Sudarat Urges Thaksin to Target Beneficiaries of Transnational Crime Networks Sudarat Keyuraphan. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Sudarat Keyuraphan, leader of the Thai Sang Thai Party, has urged the Thai government to take decisive action against transnational crime gangs exploiting Thailand as a gateway. Source: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348638-sudarat-urges-thaksin-to-target-beneficiaries-of-transnational-crime-networks/

Sudarat Keyuraphan. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Sudarat Keyuraphan, leader of the Thai Sang Thai Party, has urged the Thai government to take decisive action against transnational crime gangs exploiting Thailand as a gateway. Her comments came amid concerns about the country's role as a hub for illicit activities, such as human trafficking and cross-border crime. Highlighting the case of Chinese actor Xing Xing, who was allegedly lured from Thailand to Myanmar by scammers, Sudarat stressed the impact these activities have on Thailand's image as a safe tourist destination. The online platform XiaoHongShu, popular among young Chinese, has seen over 100,000 posts questioning the safety of travelling to Thailand, potentially affecting Chinese tourism during the Lunar New Year period. Sudarat also pointed to incidents involving Thai nationals, including deaths and disappearances in Cambodia's Poi Pet city, and emphasised the need for urgent assistance for the thousands of Thais reportedly trapped by traffickers in the region. Amid these growing concerns, former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has claimed to have intelligence on the transnational crime groups operating in Myanmar and Cambodia. Sudarat urged the government to take advantage of Thaksin's knowledge and diplomatic ties with these countries to crack down on the crime syndicates. She called on Thaksin to help identify those in Thailand who might be benefiting from these illegal activities, particularly those linked to online gambling and fraudulent call centres, to better protect Thai citizens and restore the country's reputation, reported Thai Rath. -- 2025-01-13