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Thai Club Faces Backlash for Customer ID Photos In Nonthaburi province, a well-known entertainment venue in Bang Yai is under scrutiny after allegations arose of staff photographing customers' ID cards for potential profiteering. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347998-thai-club-faces-backlash-for-customer-id-photos/

Picture courtesy: Siam Rath In Nonthaburi province, a well-known entertainment venue in Bang Yai is under scrutiny after allegations arose of staff photographing customers' ID cards for potential profiteering. This has prompted numerous customers to report concerns to local police, with 65 formal complaints filed so far and more trickling in. One of the complainants, 21-year-old Mr. Pharaoh, narrated his experience to reporters. He recounted multiple visits to the venue from 2023 to 2024, noting that staff consistently took photos of customers' ID cards and faces upon entry. Initially taken aback by this practice, he assumed it was standard procedure. However, growing concerns over identity misuse, particularly with rising scams, compelled him to seek advice from his family and file a report with Bang Yai police. Another complainant, Ms. Siriwan, 31, shared an unsettling incident involving photographs. She visited the club for a delayed birthday celebration, during which a concert was held. Her cleavage was photographed and posted on the club's Facebook page as part of a promotion for drink rewards. Although faces weren't shown, a friend recognised her in the photos and alerted her. Alarmed by the potential for misuse of her ID information, she also decided to report the incident. Both individuals stress that while the club hasn't linked ID photos to individual faces, the practice has raised serious privacy and security concerns. They urge others to be cautious, although they acknowledge that scams can arise through various means, reported Siam Rath. -- 2025-01-06

Khon Kaen Club Sparks Concerns Over ID Scanning Practice Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Residents and patrons in Khon Kaen have voiced concerns following reports of a well-known nightclub photographing and scanning customers’ ID cards before allowing entry. The practice has sparked privacy fears, particularly after similar incidents in Nonthaburi where ID data was allegedly misused. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347996-khon-kaen-club-sparks-concerns-over-id-scanning-practice/

Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Residents and patrons in Khon Kaen have voiced concerns following reports of a well-known nightclub photographing and scanning customers’ ID cards before allowing entry. The practice has sparked privacy fears, particularly after similar incidents in Nonthaburi where ID data was allegedly misused. Mr. A, a local visitor to the club, expressed discomfort after experiencing these security measures. On his visits, his ID card was both photographed and scanned with a device unfamiliar to him. He fears this personal information might be exploited, reflecting a common worry shared on social media platforms. The nightclub, defending its actions, claimed compliance with provincial mandates for strict age verification and drug prevention. They assured there was no intention to misuse customer data. In reaction to the apprehension expressed, the club has decided to pause the photographing and scanning of ID cards, opting for traditional ID checks or the use of the Thai ID app instead. Khon Kaen police chief, Pol. Col. Yosawat Kaewsipthanich, stated no official complaints have been lodged and no harm has been identified. Authorities are investigating to ensure customer data security. The club's operations comply with the Hotel Act 2004, running from 11 PM to 4 AM, reported Siam Rath. -- 2025-01-06

Liberian Duo Arrested in Bangkok for $90,000 Gold Scam Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Two Liberian nationals have been detained in Bangkok for their involvement in a $90,000 gold-selling scam, in which they tricked a Thai businessman with counterfeit banknotes. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347990-liberian-duo-arrested-in-bangkok-for-90000-gold-scam/

Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Two Liberian nationals have been detained in Bangkok for their involvement in a $90,000 gold-selling scam, in which they tricked a Thai businessman with counterfeit banknotes. According to Pol Col Pansa Amarapitak, head of Thong Lor police, the suspects, Solomon Varney Gaddeh, 32, and Yousouf Cherif, 50, were apprehended on Udomsuk Road in Bang Na late on Saturday. The arrests came after the businessman reported that two Africans deceived him out of a cash sum when he attempted to purchase 2kg of gold on 2nd January. The businessman was initially contacted by a foreigner called Richard on Facebook, who offered him gold bars below market value. They arranged a meeting in the car park of the Ibis Bangkok hotel in Soi Sukhumvit 24, where the cash exchange was to take place. At the rendezvous, Mr Gaddeh and Mr Yousouf met the businessman instead of Richard, who relayed instructions over the phone and directed them to an outdoor parking area nearby. Upon inspection, the gold bars appeared genuine; however, during the transaction, Richard called via video link, distracting the businessman. This allowed the suspects to switch the real cash for counterfeit bills. Feigning a need for their passports, they left with the gold, promising to return shortly. When they failed to return and Richard became unreachable by phone, the businessman realised the banknotes felt unusual. A nearby bank later confirmed the money was fake. The suspects admitted to the scam, revealing the stolen funds had already been transferred abroad. Police suspect that three more individuals were involved and are continuing their investigation, reported Thai Rath. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2025-01-06

Thaksin Predicts Debt-Free Thailand by 2027 with New Strategies Picture courtesy: Naewna Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has expressed confidence that Thailand will eliminate its national debt by 2027. Addressing supporters at a rally for the Pheu Thai party's candidate, Salakcharit Tiyapairat, in Chiang Rai's upcoming Provincial Administrative Organisation election, Thaksin outlined his vision for reviving the Thai economy. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347987-thaksin-predicts-debt-free-thailand-by-2027-with-new-strategies/

Picture courtesy: Naewna Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has expressed confidence that Thailand will eliminate its national debt by 2027. Addressing supporters at a rally for the Pheu Thai party's candidate, Salakcharit Tiyapairat, in Chiang Rai's upcoming Provincial Administrative Organisation election, Thaksin outlined his vision for reviving the Thai economy. In his current role as an adviser to Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, Thaksin aims to boost the price of rubber, which could significantly benefit Thai exports. He also mentioned efforts to break the monopolised export of rice, allowing more Thais to participate directly in the global market. Thaksin emphasised that Pheu Thai intends to capitalise on economic opportunities this year, paving the way for gradually clearing national debts. He stressed that these financial burdens weren't created by Pheu Thai but inherited from previous administrations. Addressing societal issues, Thaksin highlighted the longstanding problem of drug trafficking among youths and pledged that his daughter, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, would intensify efforts to combat this issue. The plan includes cracking down on influential figures profiting from narcotics. Thaksin also touched on scams originating from call centres in Myanmar's Myawaddy township, near Thailand's Mae Sot border. He is in talks with Myanmar to address these scams, offering Thai assistance if needed, reported Thai Newsroom. Picture courtesy: Naewna -- 2025-01-06

Navy Rescues Six Tourists from Capsized Kayaks Off Koh Chang Picture courtesy: Naewna In a dramatic rescue, six tourists narrowly escaped disaster after their kayaks capsized amidst strong waves off Thailand's Koh Chang. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347985-navy-rescues-six-tourists-from-capsized-kayaks-off-koh-chang/

Picture courtesy: Naewna In a dramatic rescue, six tourists narrowly escaped disaster after their kayaks capsized amidst strong waves off Thailand's Koh Chang. On 5 January 2025, the Royal Thai Navy's Koh Chang Maritime Security Centre (Sor Por Kor Koh Chang) responded to two separate kayak accidents near Koh Yuak and Koh Suwan. The first incident occurred at 12:30 PM when four Czech tourists ventured out kayaking near Koh Yuak in Trat Province. Rough seas overturned their kayaks, prompting a nearby observer to alert the authorities. The Navy swiftly dispatched a rescue team, successfully bringing all four tourists to safety. One tourist sustained minor injuries and received immediate first aid onshore. Picture courtesy: Naewna While returning the rescued tourists, the Navy team spotted two Russian tourists struggling against the waves near Koh Suwan. The tourists had sought refuge from the rough conditions. The rescuers coordinated to safely guide them back to shore by 2:30 PM. Picture courtesy: Naewna All six tourists were unharmed. The Czech nationals were transferred to a tour boat, while the Russians were safely taken to their hotel at Barali, Koh Chang, reported Naeewna. Initial reports suggest that unfamiliarity with local conditions and unexpected strong waves led to the accidents. The Koh Chang Maritime Security Centre has issued a reminder to tourists to check weather conditions before venturing out and to adhere to safety measures, including wearing life jackets at all times. -- 2025-01-06

Authorities Raid Chinese-Focused Pattaya Nightclub After Violent Incident In the early hours of January 5, authorities conducted a surprise raid on a nightclub in Pattaya’s Walking Street following a violent incident that left a Chinese tourist injured. The operation, led by Chonburi Governor Thawatchai Sritong. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347937-authorities-raid-chinese-focused-pattaya-nightclub-after-violent-incident/

Nine Deadly Days Claim 393 Lives and Injure Over 2,200 The festive period has turned deadly for many, with a toll of 393 fatalities and 2,251 injuries reported over the past nine days of New Year travel. Authorities have attributed the alarming figures to reckless driving, with speeding identified as the primary cause of crashes. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347955-nine-deadly-days-claim-393-lives-and-injure-over-2200/

to continue: Thailand Live Monday 6 January 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1347970-thailand-live-monday-6-january-2025/

Drunken Australian Man Arrested After Stealing Motorcycle An Australian man has been arrested in Bangkok after stealing a rental motorcycle and leading police on a chaotic chase that ended when he rode into a Peugeot car showroom. Police from the Phra Khanong station apprehended 41-year-old Beau Gerand Hegarty, an Australian national, on charges of driving under the influence and operating a vehicle without a valid licence... Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347930-drunken-australian-man-arrested-after-stealing-motorcycle/

Parliament Chief Vows PM Will Address MPs' Queries Directly File photo courtesy: Wikipedia Parliament president Wan Muhamad Noor Matha has affirmed his commitment to persuade Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra to address interpellations personally in parliament. These calls for direct responses have intensified amidst continued anticipation from opposition MPs, who were left unsatisfied last year when the Prime Minister did not engage directly with their inquiries. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347882-parliament-chief-vows-pm-will-address-mps-queries-directly/

File photo courtesy: Wikipedia Parliament president Wan Muhamad Noor Matha has affirmed his commitment to persuade Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra to address interpellations personally in parliament. These calls for direct responses have intensified amidst continued anticipation from opposition MPs, who were left unsatisfied last year when the Prime Minister did not engage directly with their inquiries. In a recent parliamentary session, Mr. Wan assured members that the government whip would convey the opposition’s sentiments to Prime Minister Paetongtarn, highlighting the importance of her direct participation in these discussions. The push for transparency and accountability has been underscored by Mr. Wan, who emphasised the duty of the opposition to question governmental operations and the corresponding responsibility of the government to provide clear answers. "Persistently ignoring these questions could be detrimental to the government’s credibility," he cautioned, drawing on his extensive political experience. He argued that interpellations offer a vital platform for the government to communicate directly with the public and counter opposition accusations. Mr. Wan advised, "There’s no reason to shy away from answering interpellations. The aim should be to respond with clarity and honesty." He noted that while the opposition might remain dissatisfied, it is ultimately the public that judges the government's responses. While endorsing the necessity of PM Paetongtarn’s involvement, Mr. Wan also acknowledged that not all inquiries need her direct attention. In cases where specifics fall within the remit of individual cabinet ministers, they might be better positioned to provide immediate and informed answers. Delaying answers through unnecessary referrals to the Prime Minister, Mr. Wan pointed out, could hinder effective communication and waste valuable time. In a related context, opposition leader Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut has been vocal about his intent to scrutinise the role of Pheu Thai's alleged de facto leader, Thaksin Shinawatra, within the government. This stems from ongoing speculation regarding Prime Minister Paetongtarn’s authority, with some questioning whether she is the genuine power in charge. As the call for transparency grows louder, these developments mark a significant moment in Thai politics. The outcome of Mr. Wan’s efforts, alongside the government’s response, will likely shape the public’s trust and perception of Thailand’s current administration. With a strong mandate to uphold, Prime Minister Paetongtarn’s engagement with parliament may prove pivotal in asserting her leadership and addressing the nation’s concerns directly, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-01-04

Bank of Thailand Board Chairman Race Faces New Candidate Dilemma File photo courtesy: Prachachat The quest to appoint a new chairman for the Bank of Thailand's board has reached a critical juncture, leaving the selection committee at a crossroads about whether to stick with their initial list of candidates or to request fresh names from the Finance Ministry. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347881-bank-of-thailand-board-chairman-race-faces-new-candidate-dilemma/

File photo courtesy: Prachachat The quest to appoint a new chairman for the Bank of Thailand's board has reached a critical juncture, leaving the selection committee at a crossroads about whether to stick with their initial list of candidates or to request fresh names from the Finance Ministry. An anonymous source within the ministry revealed that the legal framework for selecting a chair empowers the ministry to provide a list equivalent to the number of available positions, while the central bank is expected to propose a list with twice as many candidates. Once the committee reaches a decision on the candidates for both board members and the chair, this proposed list is forwarded to the ministry for approval. Complicating matters, the ministry recently sought the opinion of the Council of State on the eligibility of Kittiratt Na-Ranong, a frontrunner for the chairman role. The crux of the issue lies in whether Mr Kittiratt satisfies the Bank of Thailand's stipulation that candidates must not have held any political office for at least a year before their application. The deliberations of the Council of State suggest that Mr Kittiratt’s past roles— notably as an advisor to the prime minister and leader of a public debt resolution committee—might be seen as political, thus potentially disqualifying him. This interpretation needs to be relayed to the committee, which must then decide whether to narrow its course by endorsing the existing candidate pool or to start afresh by calling on the ministry for a new list. Insiders speculate that the Council of State assessed Mr Kittiratt’s roles, including his influence on bureaucrats, as potentially political. The implications of these positions have led to delays and heightened tensions in the selection process, with scheduled meetings postponed amidst growing fears of political meddling. Reports have circulated that the government may wish to appoint its own preferred candidate to succeed Porametee Vimolsiri, whose tenure concludes this month. This perceived interference has sparked controversy, as Mr Kittiratt, a former Commerce Minister and past deputy leader of the Pheu Thai Party, was anticipated by many to be a leading contender for the chairmanship. Known for his criticisms of the central bank's interest rate policies, Mr Kittiratt's prior advisory role to ex-premier Srettha Thavisin further complicates his candidacy. The stakes are high, with the decision potentially shaping the Bank of Thailand's future direction. If financial and political stability is a priority, careful navigation through these waters is imperative. With the clock ticking, all eyes remain fixed on the conclusion of this pivotal appointment process, equivalent to managing the country's economic helm valued at over a trillion Thai Baht, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-01-04

Thai Government and Navy Face Strategic Procurement Challenges File photo courtesy: Facebook Thai Navy As the Thai government, led by Pheu Thai, navigates the complex waters of military procurement and diplomatic relations, intense discussions over the acquisition of frigates and submarines are coming to a head. At stake are maritime security needs and international partnerships, notably with China and Germany. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347874-thai-government-and-navy-face-strategic-procurement-challenges/

File photo courtesy: Facebook Thai Navy As the Thai government, led by Pheu Thai, navigates the complex waters of military procurement and diplomatic relations, intense discussions over the acquisition of frigates and submarines are coming to a head. At stake are maritime security needs and international partnerships, notably with China and Germany. The Royal Thai Navy is prioritising the acquisition of four high-performance frigates, each priced at approximately 17.50 billion baht. These vessels are deemed essential for Thailand to maintain a strong naval presence in both the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea. The current fleet includes four frigates: HTMS Bhumibol, HTMS Taksin, HTMS Naresuan, and HTMS Rattanakosin. However, the Navy asserts that eight are essential by 2037 to meet strategic defence goals. Yet, the procurement project faced a setback as it was rejected by a special committee dominated by Pheu Thai MPs. They raised concerns about the defence budget potentially detracting from the government’s economic stimulation policies. Similarly contentious is the issue of submarine procurement. The ongoing saga involves three submarines initially estimated to cost 13.5 billion baht each. Central to this delay is the question of sourcing engines, spurring discussions with Chinese and German ambassadors. Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai aims to finalise procurement within six months, considering whether Germany might directly supply the engines, even if it involves complex technical installations. The potential inauguration of Donald Trump as US President adds another layer of uncertainty. His administration may influence Thailand's military procurement strategies and international dealings, particularly concerning military technology cooperation. Phumtham also noted Thailand has been observing Pakistan’s evaluation of Chinese-manufactured submarines, though obtaining detailed findings remains elusive due to security confidentiality. In the light of these challenges, a pause in the procurement of these submarines or a complete cancellation could be considered. However, this decision carries the risk of straining Thailand's diplomatic relations with China, which might also affect broader initiatives like the high-speed rail project connecting the two nations. Furthermore, any shift in these defence plans might impact relations with Cambodia, particularly concerning overlapping claims over areas like Koh Kut Island. The memorandum of understanding known as MOU44 stands as a backdrop where any reassessment could have significant repercussions. As these considerations unfold, the Thai government and Navy must walk a fine line—balancing defence capabilities and economic policies while managing international relationships delicately. As 2024 progresses, these decisions will shape Thailand’s strategic posture and regional influence, reported Thae Nation. -- 2025-01-04

Three British Teens Among 11 Hurt as Tree Falls on Thai Bus Picture courtesy: Naewna In a shocking incident in Kanchanaburi, western Thailand, a tree felled by an illegal logger crashed onto a passing bus, injuring eleven people, including three British teens. The dramatic accident occurred as the tourists were en route to the popular Erawan Waterfall. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347863-three-british-teens-among-11-hurt-as-tree-falls-on-thai-bus/

Picture courtesy: MGR online In a shocking incident in Kanchanaburi, western Thailand, a tree felled by an illegal logger crashed onto a passing bus, injuring eleven people, including three British teens. The dramatic accident occurred as the tourists were en route to the popular Erawan Waterfall. British nationals Biba Rose Waddell, 19, from London, Sophia Rose Alice Ridehalgh, 19, from Welwyn Garden City, and Sasha Chloe Hayes, 18, from Oxford, were among the passengers aboard the ill-fated bus when the tree trunk slammed onto its roof. The bus driver narrowly avoided a catastrophic plunge down a hillside, bringing the vehicle to a halt mere feet from the edge. Picture courtesy: MGR online Police officers from Lat Ya Police Station rushed to the scene on Highway No. 3199 following the incident, which was reported around 10 am. They discovered that a large wormwood tree had crashed onto the bus, shattering the windshield and causing panic among the 36 passengers inside, most of whom were foreign tourists, reported LIam Buckler for MIrror. ABUS.mp4 Lieutenant Colonel Maneephat Pengklet noted that a total of eleven individuals sustained injuries from shattered glass and falling branches. All injured parties, including the British teens, were immediately transported to Synphaet Hospital for treatment. Most suffered minor injuries, but one Canadian tourist, Jaime Michelle Mitchell, 45, was taken to the Intensive Care Unit with more serious injuries and fitted with a neck brace. In a supportive gesture, Thawatchai Wiriyajit from the local land transport office stated that authorities would cover the medical expenses incurred by the patients. Picture courtesy: MGR online Early investigations suggest that the tree may have been deliberately cut down by an illegal logger, as evidenced by nearby sawdust and cut marks on the tree. Paitoon Inthabut, Chief of Salak Phra Wildlife Sanctuary, confirmed that rangers had been dispatched to apprehend the suspect, who is believed to reside in the vicinity. Subsequently, police arrested a 39-year-old man named Wasin, after discovering tree cutting tools in his white Isuzu pickup truck, along with documentation indicating he was involved in selling timber. Athisak Intra, the Governor of Kanchanaburi Province, has ordered a comprehensive investigation into the incident to address this unlawful act and implement safety measures to prevent future occurrences. Picture courtesy: MGR online The total cost of potential damages and healthcare in this incident isn't entirely defined, but the gravity of public safety and legal accountability have certainly been accentuated. This unfortunate event serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by illegal logging, underscoring the urgent need for stricter regulations and enforcement in the region, reported Mirror. -- 2025-01-04

Thailand Aims to Woo Elite Tourists Amidst Regional Rivalry Picture courtesy: Travel + Leisure In a strategic move to bolster its luxury tourism sector, Thailand is embarking on a mission to attract elite tourists with offerings in wellness, sport, and romance. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has set ambitious goals, targeting a 10% annual growth in this lucrative market, against a backdrop of fierce competition from neighbouring destinations. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347869-thailand-aims-to-woo-elite-tourists-amidst-regional-rivalry/

Picture courtesy: Travel + Leisure In a strategic move to bolster its luxury tourism sector, Thailand is embarking on a mission to attract elite tourists with offerings in wellness, sport, and romance. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has set ambitious goals, targeting a 10% annual growth in this lucrative market, against a backdrop of fierce competition from neighbouring destinations. At the heart of Thailand's renewed focus are the niche markets that promise high returns. Jirawadee Khunsap, Deputy Governor for Products and Tourism Business at TAT, announced on Friday that the kingdom aims to tap into luxury tourism, initially valued at approximately ฿70 billion annually. This figure is expected to steadily climb as global travel resumes, especially as high-quality tourists are increasingly drawn to bespoke experiences. Last year, luxury seekers predominantly visited hotspots like Bangkok, Phuket, Pattaya, Krabi, and Koh Samui. These visitors spend an average of ฿77,693 per trip, or about ฿6,171 daily, during stays that typically span nine to ten days. To increase these numbers, Thailand plans to enhance its luxury tourism offerings, appealing directly to affluent travellers by providing compelling value propositions. The increasing competition from venues such as Japan, which recently surpassed Thailand in foreign tourist arrivals, spurs Thailand to sharpen its competitive edge. With established luxury destinations like Singapore and Maldives also in the fray, Thailand differentiates itself through its abundant four- and five-star accommodations, alongside premium services interwoven with natural and cultural charms. Thailand’s well-regarded safety and warmth are expected to significantly enhance the comfort and enjoyment of visiting luxury travellers. "We are capitalising on luxury to break into major markets like China, the US, and the Middle East," Jirawadee explained, noting that Thailand’s relative affordability offers an advantage over its rivals. The Tourism Authority’s strategy is twofold: in the short term, spanning one to three years, it intends to host world-class events, including international music festivals, conferences, and sporting events. Collaborations with luxury brands to curate unique experiences aim to draw high spenders to the country. In the longer term, over three to five years, the focus will shift towards custom tour packages, complemented by attractions centred on wellness, art, and culture. Enhancing infrastructure, such as upgrading airports, ports for luxury yachts, and public transport, alongside the availability of luxury car rentals, is anticipated to further appeal to affluent tourists' preferences. As Thailand sets its sights on a prosperous future in luxury tourism, it remains steadfast in its commitment to providing exceptional experiences that cater to the desires of the world's most discerning travellers, reported The Nation. -- 2025-01-04

Day 7 of the New Year Road Safety Campaign At a press conference held on January 3, Chatchatha Mosikarat, Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, and Chairman of the Subcommittee for Road Safety, highlighted progress in reducing accidents. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347820-day 7-of-the-new-year-road-safety-campaign /