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The Ministry of Tourism and Sports has rolled out an exciting plan aimed at welcoming over 10 million tourists to Phetchaburi Province each year. The initiative was unveiled against the picturesque backdrop of Phetchaburi on May 13, just ahead of the Cabinet meeting. Leading the charge, Tourism Minister Sermsak Pongpanich emphasized the Ministry’s commitment to spotlighting Phetchaburi as a top-tier travel destination. He said, "Our goal is to generate 3.5 trillion baht in revenue by promoting 11 key industries, with a focus on Phetchaburi's cultural heritage, delicious cuisine, arts, and vibrant local traditions." The strategy aims to incorporate various stakeholders, including local businesses and community groups, to elevate the number of tourists to a minimum of 10 million yearly. This influx is expected to inject an estimated 35 billion baht into the local economy. Central to this vision is the creation of a seamless tourism experience that connects major attractions like Phra Nakhon Khiri Historical Park and Khao Nang Phanthurat Forest Park. The initiative also seeks to empower local communities, ensuring they benefit directly from the tourism boom. Efforts include upgrading facilities and launching extensive promotional campaigns to put Phetchaburi on the global map. Recent statistics are encouraging, with Phetchaburi seeing a 20.26% rise in tourist visits in 2023 and a 9.93% increase in the first quarter of 2024. These figures point to a promising future for the province as it gears up to become a major tourism hub. Hua Hin Today highlights that with determined efforts and strategic planning, Phetchaburi stands on the brink of unprecedented growth in the tourism sector. File photo: Tham Khao Luang Cave. Courtesy: Wikimedia -- 2024-05-15 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Vietjet Ends Direct Flights from Phuket to Chiang Rai File photo: Thai Vietjet Air, HS-VKA, Airbus A320-214. Credit: Wikimedia In a sudden move, Thai Vietjet has ceased its direct flights between the northern city of Chiang Rai and the popular Andaman coastal destination, Phuket. The budget airline has not provided any explanation for the abrupt cancellation. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327295-thai-vietjet-ends-direct-flights-from-phuket-to-chiang-rai/

In a sudden move, Thai Vietjet has ceased its direct flights between the northern city of Chiang Rai and the popular Andaman coastal destination, Phuket. The budget airline has not provided any explanation for the abrupt cancellation. The change surfaced in the May flight timetable shared by Mae Fah Luang Chiang Rai International Airport and posted on social media. The last flight reportedly took place on May 12, according to the schedule and flight tracking service FlightAware, which indicated that Thai Vietjet's final flight, VJ400, landed in Chiang Rai at 10:25 am. The direct service, which started in November 2023, was operated using a 180-seat Airbus A320. Thai Vietjet offered four flights a week on this route—Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, and Friday—with round-trip fares averaging around $140. Flight VJ400’s typical schedule had it leaving Phuket at 8:37 am, arriving in Chiang Rai at 10:25 am, and returning from Chiang Rai at 10:55 am to land back in Phuket by 1:05 pm. Chiang Rai Airport has struggled since losing international status during the Covid-19 pandemic, with all international flights stopping indefinitely. Before the pandemic, the airport was serviced by several Chinese airlines and had seasonal flights to Singapore with Thai AirAsia, but efforts to restore international connectivity have faced difficulties. The airport's revival efforts are further hampered by ongoing air quality issues, making the region less attractive to airlines. Consequently, flights primarily focus on domestic destinations, with the most competitive fares and services being routes to Bangkok offered by five airlines: Vietjet, Thai Lion, Thai Airways International, Nok Air, and AirAsia. The end of Thai Vietjet's direct Phuket-Chiang Rai service has been attributed to competition from cheaper travel options via Chiang Mai. Tourists often fly to Chiang Mai and then take a bus to Chiang Rai, a cost-effective choice, especially for families. With this latest route suspension, Chiang Rai Airport's flight offerings remain limited compared to the broader and more competitively priced options available from Chiang Mai. File photo: Thai Vietjet Air, HS-VKA, Airbus A320-214. Credit: Wikimedia -- 2024-05-15 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Wednesday 15 May 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327293-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-wednesday-15-may-2024/

Another South Korean suspect linked to the murder of a man found dead in a concrete-filled barrel near Pattaya has been apprehended in Phnom Penh. The 27-year-old was arrested following a tip-off. Authorities are still searching for the third and final suspect, believed to have crossed from Thailand into Myanmar. The government appears set to approve a raise in the minimum daily wage to 400 baht a day from the 1st of October, tyesterdays cabinet meeting also approved collection of 7 percent ‘V.A.T’ on goods with a value of 1,500 baht or more ordered online from overseas platforms. The idea is to protect small and medium-sized Thai businesses. The minister of justice will meet another activist who’s on hunger strike, following the death yesterday of a 28 year old who had refused food since january, after the Court revoked her bail on a charge of lèse majesté following a protest related to a royal motorcade. The minister said he wanted to see first hand the condition of the other female protester who is also on hunger strike. Thailand had the most ransomware attacks in Southeast Asia last year, according to the Russia-based cybersecurity company Kaspersky. Thailand became a major target for cyber criminals who launch sophisticated attacks on businesses both commercial and government service platforms. Stolen personal and business data is then offered for sale on the dark web, Often attackers will demand money from a company or individuals to restore their data and compromised systems. Around the region: China announced that Russian President Vladimir Putin will visit Beijing on Thursday this week and meet with leader Xi Jinping. Analysts say Russia is increasingly dependent on China as a crucial economic lifeline since the West launched unprecedented sanctions over its military offensive in Ukraine. Todays’ WEATHER Chiang Mai and the north: Sunny becoming Cloudy with thunderstorms, 37 degrees celsius. Bangkok: Cloudy with thunderstorms 34. Pattaya: Thunderstorms, 32. Phuket and the south: Cloudy, with thunderstorms 33 Hua Hin: Partly cloudy, could see some rain, 33. AQI: Green clear, yellow moderate, Orange High, Red unhealthy. Credits: Bangkok Post, The Nation, Asean Now, Khaosod English, Hua Hin Today, The Pattaya News, Phuket News, Channel News Asia, South China Morning Post, The Straits Times. The Irrawaddy. Windy.com. Wunderground.com -- SURF 102.5 FM 2024-05-15 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Airways Offloads Boeing and Airbus Jets in Slimdown Effort File photo: Thai Airways, Boeing 777-200, courtesy Wikipedia BANGKOK-THAILAND: In a strategic move towards financial recovery, Thai Airways International (THAI) has successfully sold its entire fleet of 18 decommissioned aircraft. This fleet includes a mix of six Boeing 777-200s, six Boeing 777-300s, and six Airbus A380s. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327292-thai-airways-offloads-boeing-and-airbus-jets-in-slimdown-effort/

BANGKOK-THAILAND: In a strategic move towards financial recovery, Thai Airways International (THAI) has successfully sold its entire fleet of 18 decommissioned aircraft. This fleet includes a mix of six Boeing 777-200s, six Boeing 777-300s, and six Airbus A380s. CEO Chai Eamsiri revealed that contracts for the sale of all 18 aircraft were finalised on 12th May. The paperwork for six of these jets has already been completed, with the remaining dozen soon to follow. While the sale has infused some much-needed funds into the airline, it did incur a non-cash impairment charge amounting to 3.33 billion baht. This significantly dented THAI’s net profits for the first quarter of 2024. Despite the financial hit, THAI reported a 10.7% increase in total revenue for Q1 2024, reaching 45.9 billion baht compared to the same period last year. The uptick was fuelled by robust passenger numbers and higher ticket prices on routes to Europe, Australia, and Japan. However, the company also saw a sharp 22.5% rise in total expenses, climbing to 34.88 billion baht. This was largely due to increased flight operations, more destinations, and a higher volume of passengers. Additional costs arose from the baht's depreciation and escalating ground handling fees and raw material prices. Exchange rate fluctuations alone resulted in a loss of 5 billion baht, while impairments related to aircraft and aviation equipment exceeded 3 billion baht. These factors culminated in a net profit of just 2.42 billion baht, marking an 80.7% decrease from the same quarter last year. As of 31st March, THAI’s active fleet comprises 73 aircraft, an increase from 70 at the end of 2023. The expanded fleet is enabling the airline to boost frequencies on high-demand routes, which is expected to further enhance revenue in the coming quarters. Top file photo: Thai Airways, Boeing 777-200, courtesy Wikipedia -- 2024-05-15 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Tuk-Tuk Driver's Rip-Off Lands Him a Fine and License Suspension Tuk-tuk for reference only. Picture credit: Wikipedia In a recent crackdown on overcharging, a tuk-tuk driver has been fined 2,500 baht and had his driver’s license suspended for 90 days. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327290-tuk-tuk-drivers-rip-off-lands-him-a-fine-and-license-suspension/

Tuk-tuk for reference only. Picture credit: Wikipedia In a recent crackdown on overcharging, a tuk-tuk driver has been fined 2,500 baht and had his driver’s license suspended for 90 days. This came after he was found guilty of charging four Japanese tourists an exorbitant fare of 6,000 baht for a brief journey from Bangkok's Sukhumvit Soi 18 to Thaniya Plaza in Silom on the 13th of May. The incident came to light when one of the tourists shared their unfortunate experience on social media, drawing widespread ridicule and anger towards the driver, known as "Phumiret." The post quickly garnered attention, prompting officials from the Land Transport Department to investigate. Through meticulous inspection of the tuk-tuk's ownership and license number, authorities identified the driver and summoned him for questioning. During the inquiry, Phumiret confessed to the overcharging, mentioning that the high fare was due to heavy rainfall at the time. As a consequence, the Land Transport Department fined him 2,000 baht for overcharging and an additional 500 baht for improper attire. Moreover, his driver’s license has been suspended for three months. To top it off, he has been mandated to complete a three-hour public service course. This incident serves as a stern reminder to all tuk-tuk drivers about adhering to fair pricing and maintaining professional standards, as authorities continue to crack down on such exploitative practices. -- 2024-05-15 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

86 Year Old Thai Man Murders Friend Over 'Lack of Respect' Picture courtesy: Bouncenation Thailand In a tragic incident in Udon Thani, Thailand, an 86-year-old man has been arrested for fatally stabbing his friend following a heated disagreement over respect. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327289-86-year-old-thai-man-murders-friend-over-lack-of-respect/

In a tragic incident in Udon Thani, Thailand, an 86-year-old man has been arrested for fatally stabbing his friend following a heated disagreement over respect. The altercation took place yesterday in the Ban Non Hua Chiang Community in the Nong Han district. Local police were called to the scene around midday, where they discovered 49-year-old Anan Kongchang with a fatal stab wound to his chest. Police detained the suspect, Jampa Hasook, who was found intoxicated at the scene and unable to flee. Jampa confessed to the stabbing, citing a lack of respect from the victim as the motive. "I bought him alcohol, but he didn't respect me. He insulted me, so I stabbed him. For a man, honour is everything," Jampa reportedly told police. The two men had been drinking together since early morning along with another companion, 69-year-old Choosak. Reports suggest that tensions escalated after Anan complained about Jampa, leading to the fatal attack. Specifics of the complaint have not been disclosed. Choosak, who tried to intervene, suffered minor injuries in the scuffle but was unable to prevent the tragedy due to his own inebriation. "I'm saddened and shocked that our drinking gatherings could end in such violence," he remarked. The deceased’s sister, Nuanchan Kongchang, expressed disbelief over the incident, explaining that her brother had never previously been involved in conflicts with locals. She pinned the blame on alcohol for triggering the violence. Police have charged Jampa with intentional murder under Section 288 of Thai Criminal Law, which carries severe penalties including the potential for life imprisonment or even the death penalty. The shocking incident serves as a grim reminder of how quickly social gatherings can turn deadly when alcohol and deep-seated issues of respect and honour are involved. TOP: Picture courtesy: Bouncenation Thailand -- 2024-05-15 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Panic in Roi Et: Thai Woman Hospitalised After Festival Rocket Crash video screenshot In a shocking incident, a Thai woman was rushed to hospital following a close encounter with a rocket that landed on her lawn during a traditional festival in Roi Et, part of the Isaan region. Her son, known television host Thanasub Ounsuang, is now demanding answers and accountability. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327287-panic-in-roi-et-thai-woman-hospitalised-after-festival-rocket-crash/

video screenshot In a shocking incident, a Thai woman was rushed to hospital following a close encounter with a rocket that landed on her lawn during a traditional festival in Roi Et, part of the Isaan region. Her son, known television host Thanasub Ounsuang, is now demanding answers and accountability. The drama unfolded when a large rocket, purportedly worth 10 million baht, came crashing down near Thanasub's home. Sharing his ordeal on Facebook on the evening of May 13, Thanasub narrated how his mother went into a panic attack due to the close call. Thankfully, no one was injured, as the family, who often enjoy their evenings outside, were not present on the lawn at the time. While emphasising the cultural importance of the rocket festival in Roi Et and other Isaan provinces, Thanasub stressed that such dangerous incidents must not be taken lightly. He urged his online followers to spread awareness about the mishap, highlighting the need for responsible festival management. Thanasub's post was accompanied by compelling videos and images of the rocket and its launch, clearly showing its origins from the festival. The rocket, a massive creation of PVC pipe, needed over ten people to launch, making it one of the festival’s most significant displays. As of now, there has been no official comment from the event organisers or local authorities. The silence raises concerns about the measures in place to prevent future accidents. Worryingly, this is not an isolated event. Just last year, a rocket from a festival in Amnat Charoen province exploded on a road, injuring three people. Another mishap occurred in Kalasin province, where a colossal rocket worth around 20 million baht malfunctioned mid-air, raining debris on festival-goers. As Thanasub and his family seek justice and accountability, the incident sheds light on the urgent need for stricter safety regulations during such cultural celebrations. -- 2024-05-15 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Outrage in Thailand: Boy Claims to Be Buddha’s Son in Bizarre Scam Picture courtesy: MGR The Thai Central Investigation Bureau has received a formal complaint against an eight-year-old boy, dubbed "Nong Nice," who is at the centre of a scandalous claim of being the reincarnated son of Lord Buddha, possessing magical powers to "connect people’s minds". Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327286-outrage-in-thailand-boy-claims-to-be-buddha’s-son-in-bizarre-scam/

Picture courtesy: MGR The Thai Central Investigation Bureau has received a formal complaint against an eight-year-old boy, dubbed "Nong Nice," who is at the centre of a scandalous claim of being the reincarnated son of Lord Buddha, possessing magical powers to "connect people’s minds". The complaint, lodged on Monday by an assembly of prominent social critics, accuses Nong Nice and eight others of breaching the Computer Crime Act, Donation Soliciting Act, and Child Welfare Protection Act. The complainants urged immediate action from the National Office of Buddhism, alleging that the "mind connection" office and its website are spreading false information. Leading the charge are Ananchai Chaiyadet, lawyer; Praiwal "Peary" Wannabut; Thankhun Jitt-itsara; and Khun Ton Or, founder of the Be One Foundation. They also demanded the Sangha Council, which governs Thailand’s Buddhist order, to enforce stricter regulations to prevent distortions of Buddhist teachings. Ananchai Chaiyadet expressed concerns that the boy’s parents are possibly behind this scheme, exploiting Nong Nice by claiming he is the reincarnated son of Lord Buddha with mystical powers linked to the naga, a mythical Thai serpent. "As a law-abiding citizen, it’s my duty to protect Buddhism from such distortions," he stated. Thankhun Jitt-itsara highlighted that numerous victims have come forward, yet their cries for justice have been ignored. "People need to know that this is a sham," he added. Meanwhile, Khun Ton Or criticised the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security for their lack of action in halting Nong Nice’s dubious practices. Despite filing multiple complaints with various authorities, including the police and the National Office of Buddhism, no substantial action has been taken, according to the Be One Foundation. Or Rak Khamram, self-identified victim and former attendee of a "mind connection" course, confirmed suspicions by revealing it to be a complete fraud. As this case unfolds, public scrutiny and demands for stricter regulations are likely to intensify, putting significant pressure on Thai authorities to respond effectively. -- 2024-05-15 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Deputy PM Phumtham Threatens Legal Action Over Rice Criticism Deputy PM and Commerce Minister Phumtham Wechayachai. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister, Phumtham Wechayachai, has issued a stern warning to critics of his recent promotion of 10-year-old government-stored rice, insisting it’s safe to eat and threatening legal action against detractors. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327283-deputy-pm-phumtham-threatens-legal-action-over-rice-criticism/

Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister, Phumtham Wechayachai, has issued a stern warning to critics of his recent promotion of 10-year-old government-stored rice, insisting it’s safe to eat and threatening legal action against detractors. Phumtham, a close ally of the influential Pheu Thai politician Thaksin Shinawatra, defended the quality of the old rice, stored by the Public Warehouse Organisation, a state body under the Ministry of Commerce. He admitted the rice might lack the aroma of freshly harvested varieties, but maintained it was still safe for consumption. The minister, who recently sampled the decade-old rice during a warehouse visit in Surin, expressed confidence that the rice could fetch between 18-20 baht per kilo on the market. He warned that ongoing negative comments could damage Thailand’s global rice reputation and hinted at legal repercussions for persistent critics. Phumtham argued that the preservation methods, including the use of aluminium phosphide, posed no risk to human health—countering previously aired concerns. To shore up his case, he plans to request inspections and quality certifications from Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsuthin. These defensive statements come amid allegations of corruption linked to a previous Pheu Thai government’s rice subsidy scheme. This programme, spearheaded by former Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra, Thaksin’s sister, led to widespread controversy and a significant financial loss for the state, estimated at 500 billion baht. Yingluck fled Thailand in 2017, before a court could sentence her to five years in prison for neglecting her duties related to the subsidy scandal. According to Phumtham, she may return from self-imposed exile as early as next year, potentially reappearing in time for the Songkran festival in Chiang Mai. As the debate continues, the rice saga remains a contentious issue in Thailand, with significant implications for the country's political and economic landscape. TOP: Deputy PM and Commerce Minister Phumtham Wechayachai. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-05-15 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Former Minister Itthipol Free Amid Pattaya Condo Controversy Pattaya City hadi mazumder. Picture courtesy unsplash via Thaiger Itthipol Khunpluem, former Culture Minister and ex-mayor of Pattaya City, has been acquitted in a high-profile luxury condo scandal due to the case reaching its statute of limitations. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327282-former-minister-itthipol-free-amid-pattaya-condo-controversy/

Itthipol Khunpluem, former Culture Minister and ex-mayor of Pattaya City, has been acquitted in a high-profile luxury condo scandal due to the case reaching its statute of limitations. Attending court in Rayong province yesterday, Itthipol left without speaking to the press after the verdict in his favour was announced. The charges, relating to his time as mayor in 2008, have expired, and he will face no legal action. The controversy revolves around Itthipol’s decision to illegally grant a construction permit for the Waterfront condominium developed by Bali Hai Co Ltd. The 53-storey luxury condo, located at the base of Phra Tamnak Mountain, has been considered an eyesore by many locals, obstructing panoramic tourist views. Legal action against Itthipol and nine others began on August 3 last year by the Attorney General’s Office. However, the case's 15-year statute of limitations expired on September 10. The ex-minister was facing serious accusations under Section 157 of the Criminal Code, carrying a potential sentence of one to ten years in prison. While Itthipol may have escaped jail, the Waterfront complex is still under a demolition order due to its illegal permit, indicating that the battle over the controversial development is not over yet. In a related blow to anti-corruption efforts, the Central Administrative Court has fined the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) and its office for withholding investigation results into former deputy Prime Minister Prawit Wongsuwon's notorious watch collection. Political activist Veera Somkwamkid announced the court's decision, imposing a 5,000-baht fine on each entity for their non-compliance. Separately, the Criminal Court for Corruption and Misconduct Cases has ordered the confiscation of assets worth 44.6 million baht from a former Department of Special Investigation (DSI) chief over corruption allegations. Pattaya City hadi mazumder. Picture courtesy unsplash via Thaiger -- 2024-05-15 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Israeli Pensioner Robbed and Abandoned by Motorcycle Taxi in Sattahip Picture courtesy: Khaosod An 81-year-old Israeli tourist has reported that he was abandoned and robbed by a motorcycle taxi driver during a trip to Sattahip, Chonburi, Thailand. The incident occurred around 6:00 PM on May 13th. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327281-israeli-pensioner-robbed-and-abandoned-by-motorcycle-taxi-in-thai-tourist-town/

An 81-year-old Israeli tourist has reported that he was abandoned and robbed by a motorcycle taxi driver during a trip to Sattahip, Chonburi, Thailand. The incident occurred around 6:00 PM on May 13th. Mr. Albert Mahlev was found sitting alone at a roadside shop on Sukhumvit Road. He had travelled from Pattaya to Sattahip for sightseeing, hiring a motorcycle taxi from Soi Buakhao in Pattaya. According to local sources, the driver left him stranded at a Sukhumvit Road intersection and made off with his mobile phone. Struggling with the language barrier, Mr. Mahlev waited by the roadside for help. Concerned local residents eventually contacted Sattahip Police Station. Tourist police from Pattaya and Sattahip came to his aid and escorted him to the police station for further questioning. Pol. Lt. Abhisit Phuengyam, Deputy Inspector of Sattahip Police Station, stated that Mr. Mahlev initially had trouble providing detailed information due to language difficulties. Authorities are currently seeking an interpreter to assist in gathering more details from him. The local police are now investigating the incident and are urging any witnesses to come forward with information that could help identify the motorcycle taxi driver involved. Picture courtesy: Khaosod -- 2024-05-15 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

to continue: Thailand Live Wednesday 15 May 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1327280-thailand-live-wednesday-15-may-2024/

Historic Sarasin Bridge Safe from Demolition, despite New Bridge Plans in Phuket File photo for reference only. In a meeting yesterday, Yutthana Phitak, Chief of Phuket Highways Office, ensured Phuket's historic Sarasin Bridge won't face the wrecking ball, despite plans for a new bridge on the island. The announcement followed a surge of online gossip, causing concerns over the potential demolition of the 1951-built bridge. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327266-historic-sarasin-bridge-safe-from-demolition-despite-new-bridge-plans-in-phuket/

In a chilling incident yesterday, a tragic accident in Sukhsiri Village, East Pattaya has claimed the life of an Estonian toddler. Little Filipp Naumov, no more than three years old, was fatally wounded when he encountered an unfortunate accident involving a vehicle while crossing the road. Despite emergency services' swift response to administer life-saving attempts, the child tragically succumbed to a severe head injury. Devastating Pattaya Road Accident Claims Life of Estonian Toddler Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327267-devastating-pattaya-road-accident-claims-life-of-estonian-toddler/ Photo courtesy of The Thaiger

Thai Woman Detained Following Acid and Knife Assault on Unfaithful Husband Picture courtesy: Daily News A Thai woman finds herself in the hands of the Special Service Division (SSD) after allegedly launching an appalling acid and knife attack on her adulterous husband. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327230-thai-woman-detained-following-acid-and-knife-assault-on-unfaithful-husband/