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File photo for reference only. The picturesque province of Mae Hong Son, a famous destination for both local and international tourists, has found itself grappling with the challenge of maintaining its tranquil charm amidst an influx of tourists. The enchanting allure of this region, known for its breathtaking landscapes and cultural richness, often attracts diverse groups, including those occasionally pushing the limits of acceptable behaviour. Recently, tensions surfaced in the district of Pai, a hotspot within Mae Hong Son, where reports of unruly tourist behaviour have unsettled residents. An incident that particularly sparked local ire involved several Israeli tourists who caused a commotion at a local hospital, leading to their deportation. Such episodes have brought to light issues like public marijuana smoking, traffic violations, and illegal employment, prompting communities to call for more stringent governance and regulations. Chaivit Summachewawat, vice-president of the Pai Tourism Business Association, underscored the need for an equilibrium between economic prosperity from tourism and the well-being of local communities. "We need to enforce laws more stringently for those who flout rules. Perhaps a dedicated task force comprising tourist police and related authorities could manage the swell in tourist numbers," suggested Mr. Chaivit. In response to these escalating concerns, Mae Hong Son's Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) office has teamed up with local stakeholders and government entities to address these issues. Phanuwat Khatnak, TAT's regional director, stated that strategies are being devised to tackle tourist misconduct, particularly regarding public disturbances and marijuana usage. The implementation of multilingual advisory signage at major tourist sites has been one immediate step towards rectifying the situation. Furthermore, to curb the party culture that has seeped into activities like tubing along the Pai River, tighter controls on alcohol consumption and behaviour are being enforced. Tour operators have been reminded of their responsibility to guide tourists in respecting the local environment and community peace. Operators failing to comply may face penalties, including fines or jeopardy to their licenses. Despite these challenges, Mr. Phanuwat remains optimistic, noting that most local businesses continue to welcome tourists with open arms. The TAT is actively promoting lesser-known districts to alleviate the pressure on Pai, diversifying tourist experiences across the region. Last year, Mae Hong Son entertained 1.4 million visitors, contributing a robust 7.5 billion baht to the local economy, and estimates suggest an 8 billion baht economic inflow this year. While international tourists make up over 30% of this influx, primarily from countries like the UK, Israel, and Germany, it is crucial for both economic and social harmony that visitor behaviour aligns with local cultural and social norms, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-02-18

Thailand Unites with 18 Nations to Tackle Call Centre Scams Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Thailand's National Police have ramped up collaboration with ambassadors from five countries and representatives from 18 others, aiming to tackle transnational call centre scams and assist victims. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352090-thailand-unites-with-18-nations-to-tackle-call-centre-scams/

Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Thailand's National Police have ramped up collaboration with ambassadors from five countries and representatives from 18 others, aiming to tackle transnational call centre scams and assist victims. Leading the charge is Police General Thachchai Pittanilabut, who spearheads both the country's anti-human trafficking and tech crime prevention initiatives. A recent meeting at national police headquarters outlined efforts following an initial session. Representatives from the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and US Homeland Security Investigations joined to discuss strategy. The police implemented a series of seven stringent measures initiated by Police General Kittirat Panpetch. These include enhanced screening of tourists heading to Mae Sot, a Thai border area near Myawaddy, Myanmar. The measures aim to prevent individuals from being deceived into crossing into Myanmar. As a result, 58 tourists reconsidered their journey to the border area. Additionally, initiatives like cutting utilities to Myawaddy have pressured scam operations, leading to multiple arrests and the release of many victims. Collaborative efforts include sharing in-depth information and IP addresses with foreign embassies. This cooperation is crucial for locating scam centres and assisting remaining victims. The Thai police have developed a data-exchange platform to facilitate this collaboration. Picture courtesy: Siam Rath General Thachchai stressed Thailand's commitment to aiding neighbouring countries in eradicating these scams and supporting victims deceived into the networks. Close cooperation with international partners and UNODC is key to these ongoing efforts, ensuring effective victim support and repatriation processes. Both Thai authorities and international delegates expressed gratitude and readiness to continue these cooperative endeavours, breported Siam Rath. -- 2025-02-18

Pai's Deportation of International Musician Sparks Outcry Picture courtesy: Khaosod A heated controversy has emerged following the deportation of Brazilian musician, Matheus, after he was detained by Thai immigration authorities in Pai, Mae Hong Son province. The incident, which involved a minor work permit infraction, has provoked significant debate over the appropriateness of the measures employed. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352088-pais-deportation-of-international-musician-sparks-outcry/

Picture courtesy: Khaosod A heated controversy has emerged following the deportation of Brazilian musician, Matheus, after he was detained by Thai immigration authorities in Pai, Mae Hong Son province. The incident, which involved a minor work permit infraction, has provoked significant debate over the appropriateness of the measures employed. Matheus’s partner, Yael, an Israeli tourist, responded swiftly, drawing media attention to what she perceives as excessive handling of the case. She recounted the ordeal in an impassioned email dated February 16, describing the distressing circumstances faced by Matheus and other musicians apprehended at a live performance in Jazz House restaurant on February 13. The detention has also disrupted Matheus’s scheduled tour in Japan. Yael's plea articulated the difficult conditions under which Matheus and his fellow musicians were held, left without basic provisions and forced to sleep on the floor for two nights. The court hearing on February 15 resulted in a 5,000 baht fine for the performers, including Matheus. Nevertheless, their ordeal extended as they were subsequently moved to Mae Hong Son immigration detention, sparking further questions around the severity of the punishment. The incident involved four individuals: Brian, an Irish national and Jazz House owner, and three musicians – Matheus, along with Israelis Mr. Yishay and Mr. Shay. While Brian was bailed out on 120,000 baht for operating without official business registration, the musicians faced varied fines for their role in the situation. Notably, Mr. Shay was fined 8,000 baht for working outside the scope of his permitted activities. Matheus, who had been touring Thailand for three months, found his professional commitments disrupted as he was scheduled to perform in Japan from February 17. The events took a surprising turn with his deportation, a move that many view as heavy-handed relative to the offense. This occurrence brings to light mounting tensions in Pai, where an increase in foreign workers has provoked calls for rigorous enforcement of work permits, echoing local apprehensions about job competition. Thai immigration authorities, responding to these concerns, have ramped up enforcement but face scrutiny from those who argue the approach lacks proportionality, reported Khaosod. As the situation continues to unfold, it underscores the delicate balance between maintaining regulatory integrity and ensuring enforcement measures are just and fair, especially within a context as unique as Pai’s thriving musical and tourist scene. The case of Matheus and his fellow musicians stands as a poignant example of the complexities entwined in regulatory enforcement, cultural dynamics, and personal narratives within this picturesque part of Thailand. -- 2025-02-18

Efforts Continue to Lift Alcohol Ban on Thai Trains and Boost Tourism File photo for reference only The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) is preparing to make another attempt to lift the ban on alcohol sales aboard trains. Aiming to stimulate local tourism, the SRT will present its proposal at an upcoming meeting of the Alcoholic Beverage Control Committee on Friday. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352081-efforts-continue-to-lift-alcohol-ban-on-thai-trains-and-boost-tourism/

File photo for reference only The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) is preparing to make another attempt to lift the ban on alcohol sales aboard trains. Aiming to stimulate local tourism, the SRT will present its proposal at an upcoming meeting of the Alcoholic Beverage Control Committee on Friday. In a previous meeting, the committee, governed by the Ministry of Public Health, rejected this proposal, citing potential detrimental impacts. Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin, who leads the committee, indicated that the findings of a study guided their decision, suggesting that reintroducing alcohol sales might do more harm than good. Nonetheless, the SRT seems undeterred, planning to revisit their case for exemptions to the ban, particularly on tourist train services. "The SRT will urge the committee to again consider allowing alcohol sales in train stations or on trains as a means to boost tourism," revealed a spokesman closely linked to SRT deliberations. Yet, opposition to this move remains strong. Dr Udomsak Sae-Ngow from the Centre of Alcohol Studies (CAS) highlighted that a significant poll conducted across 25 train stations revealed resistance. The poll, conducted with over 3,000 train passengers last August, found that 80% of occasional drinkers and 67% of regular drinkers opposed lifting the alcohol restriction due to concerns over safety, potential disturbances, and risks such as sexual harassment. Most notably, 86% of respondents recalled the tragic 2017 incident where a 13-year-old passenger was raped and murdered, which catalysed the current ban. Thirapat Khahawong, coordinator for a network dedicated to preventing the negative effects of alcohol, urged the committee to focus on public health over industry interests. His stance is critical, especially as some segments of the business community call for the lifting of longstanding alcohol sale restrictions to invigorate economic activity. For instance, last week saw hotels and businesses lobbying to remove the 2-5pm sales ban—a practice in place since 1972 to dissuade civil servants from drinking during working hours. The ongoing debates reflect Thailand's challenges in balancing economic incentives from alcohol sales with public safety and health concerns. As the SRT makes its renewed push, stakeholders will watch carefully to see how this complex issue unfolds, weighing the pros and cons on both the economic and social fronts, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-02-18

Operation Launched to Rescue 10,000 Foreigners from Myanmar Scammers Picture courtesy: Naewna Efforts are intensifying to rescue approximately 10,000 foreign nationals believed to be trapped within scam operations in Myanmar. As these centres become a focal point of transnational crime, authorities on both sides of the Thai-Myanmar border have united in a robust crackdown. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352078-operation-launched-to-rescue-10000-foreigners-from-myanmar-scammers/

Picture courtesy: Naewna Efforts are intensifying to rescue approximately 10,000 foreign nationals believed to be trapped within scam operations in Myanmar. As these centres become a focal point of transnational crime, authorities on both sides of the Thai-Myanmar border have united in a robust crackdown. Pol Gen Thatchai Pitaneelaboot, at the helm of the Royal Thai Police’s Anti-Human Trafficking Center and Police Cyber Taskforce, announced a renewed commitment to work closely with Myanmar under the National Referral Mechanism (NRM). This coalition aims to identify victims of human trafficking, ensuring their return to their home countries. The Kingdom of Thailand currently plays a facilitating role. Verified victims who seek justice against their traffickers must lodge complaints within Myanmar’s judicial system. This strategic decision emerged from pivotal discussions at police headquarters in Bangkok, focusing on the intersection of call centre scams and trafficking. Key stakeholders include foreign embassy representatives, the UN Office on Drugs and Crime, and the US Homeland Security Investigations. Pol Gen Thatchai emphasised the importance of intelligence sharing, pointing to the establishment of an online platform. This network will enhance collaboration between embassies, pooling resources to combat these criminal enterprises. On another front, Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai highlighted a collaborative operation involving China’s Assistant Minister for Public Security, Liu Zhongyi. This joint effort between Thailand, Myanmar, and China signals a strategic offensive against Chinese-operated scams nestled within Myanmar. The operation follows earlier concerns about China's expanding direct intervention, bypassing Thai jurisdiction as they rescue and repatriate their nationals. Mr Phumtham reassured that Thailand remains a central ally in this operation, with plans for further discussions with Chinese officials underway. The operation's momentum is rooted in severing essential services—electricity, oil, and internet—to pressure Myanmar’s government and ethnic entities into dismantling these scams. Such measures have reportedly shown early signs of success, particularly in regions governed by groups like the Democratic Karen Buddhist Army (DKBA). Sources have confirmed that the DKBA recently detained 86 Chinese individuals suspected of scam involvement in Payathonzu township, strategically opposite Thailand's Sangkhla Buri district. This is part of broader efforts to eradicate scam hubs within their jurisdiction by the end of October. Thailand observes these initiatives keenly, recognising them as crucial steps towards dissociating the regional economy from illicit activities. While challenges remain, this coalition may redefine counter-trafficking and ensure the protection and repatriation of exploited individuals trapped within these fraudulent operations, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-02-18

New Casino Rules May Bar Thais Without $1.5M Fixed Deposits File photo for reference only //Wikipedia Thailand is eyeing ambitious advancements in its tourism sector by proposing a multi-faceted gaming industry centred around new casino laws. However, these regulations have sparked discussions, given their stringent conditions for Thai locals wishing to enter casinos. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352076-new-casino-rules-may-bar-thais-without-15m-fixed-deposits/

File photo for reference only //Wikipedia Thailand is eyeing ambitious advancements in its tourism sector by proposing a multi-faceted gaming industry centred around new casino laws. However, these regulations have sparked discussions, given their stringent conditions for Thai locals wishing to enter casinos. According to a draft released by the Office of the Council of State, Thai nationals must maintain fixed deposits totalling 50 million baht (approximately $1.5 million) for at least six months to gain entry to these casinos. Additionally, an entry fee, capped at 5,000 baht, will be imposed. These regulations are part of a broader initiative to stimulate tourism, a primary income source for Thailand, Southeast Asia's second-largest economy. With most forms of gambling currently illegal in the nation, the government’s move to expand casino operations aims to draw investors and boost infrastructure. This potential shift comes as Thailand's per capita GDP remains at around $7,300, making it seemingly prohibitive for many citizens to access these venues. The idea has generated both interest and opposition. Analysts suggest that the envisaged casinos would likely cater to the wealthier segments of society, possibly discouraging investors seeking a broader client base. Daniel Cheng, a gaming consultant in Singapore, remarked that these restrictions might steer Thai casinos in the direction of nations like South Korea, where locals predominantly can't enter casino floors. Despite this, the Thai administration, led by the populist Pheu Thai Party, is optimistic. The hope is to pull in new investments worth 100 billion baht, heighten foreign tourist arrivals by 5% to 10% annually, and secure over 12 billion baht in new revenue. These goals are crucial as the government projects 38 million tourists this year, inching closer to pre-pandemic levels. Southeast Asia's modern gaming dynamo, Singapore, has already made strides with a well-regulated environment attracting giants such as Las Vegas Sands Corp. Thailand seems keen to mirror this success, but the societal and political critique remains. A public opinion poll last month found substantial domestic resistance, fearing that casinos might exacerbate social issues rather than mitigate them. The draft regulation also stipulates that casino operations can only encompass 10% of the entire complex space. Further discussions and public hearings are scheduled between February 15 and March 1, after which the draft will require both cabinet approval and legislative backing. Ultimately, the future of Thailand's gambling industry hangs in the balance, posed with questions of economic benefit versus societal cost. Whatever the outcome, the debate highlights the intricate dance between economic aspirations and cultural integrity, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-02-18

Chinese Scam Gang Arrested in Yala for Robbing Elderly Thai Woman Photo via Facebook/ YalaToDay ยะลาทูเดย์ In a gripping tale of deceit, five Chinese nationals were arrested in Yala province after allegedly swindling an elderly Thai woman out of a substantial sum. The 71-year-old victim, Jiraporn, reported being duped by the group on February 12, losing 800,000 baht in gold and 150,000 baht in cash. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352049-chinese-scam-gang-arrested-in-yala-for-robbing-elderly-thai-woman/

Cockpit Crack Forces Thai Airways Flight Return; All Safe Picture of Thai Airways cracked broken cockpit window courtesy of The Daily Mail Thai Airways demonstrated its commitment to passenger safety as a flight from Bangkok to Singapore was rerouted due to a cracked cockpit window, ensuring travellers arrived safely after a swift aircraft swap. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352021-thai-airways-bangkok-singapore-flight-returns-due-to-unexpected-technical-problems/#findComment-19594705

Thailand Faces Severe Air Pollution Crisis as PM2.5 Levels Soar Picture courtesy of Thai Health Northern and northeastern Thailand are grappling with a significant air pollution crisis, as hazardous PM2.5 levels have surpassed safety standards in 42 provinces. With deteriorating air quality expected to worsen from 18th to 24th February, especially in the north, concerns are mounting. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352041-thailand-faces-severe-air-pollution-crisis-as-pm25-levels-soar/

to continue: Thailand Live Tuesday 18 February 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1352046-thailand-live-tuesday-18-february-2025/

Thailand Faces Surge in Influenza: 100,000 Cases, 9 Deaths Picture courtesy of CDC, Unsplash Thailand is grappling with a serious influenza outbreak, having witnessed nearly 100,000 infections alongside nine fatalities in just 15 days. The Ministry of Public Health has confirmed this alarming increase, underlining schools as significant hotspots. In response, the government is mobilising efforts, including the distribution of 4.5 million vaccine doses, to curb further spread. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352044-thailand-faces-surge-in-influenza-100000-cases-9-deaths/

Thai Airways Bangkok-Singapore Flight Returns Due to Unexpected Technical Problems FILE PHOTO for reference only A THAI Airways International flight headed to Singapore from Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport experienced unexpected technical problems, causing an unscheduled return to Thailand. The incident unfolded last night, as reported by Amarin TV. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352021-thai-airways-bangkok-singapore-flight-returns-due-to-unexpected-technical-problems/

FILE PHOTO for reference only A THAI Airways International flight headed to Singapore from Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport experienced unexpected technical problems, causing an unscheduled return to Thailand. The incident unfolded last night, as reported by Amarin TV. The flight in question, TG401, carried 270 passengers and was en route to Singapore’s Changi Airport. However, as it approached for landing, the aircraft circled back, making a return to Suvarnabhumi Airport around 10 p.m. This sudden manoeuvre left passengers puzzled, as there was no immediate explanation from the airline about the situation. Upon landing, passengers were instructed to disembark and wait in HoldRoom C, where they were informed they would board a different flight scheduled for 5 a.m. the following morning. The lack of detailed communication initially heightened confusion among those on board. Later, a Facebook user going by “Khon Khao Ton Prakan” provided additional insight, suggesting the technical issue involved a malfunction and broken glass. Although specifics remain scant, the post offered some clarity on the nature of the problem experienced by the aircraft, reported Thai Newsroom. -- 2025-02-17

Four Illegal Workers Arrested in Naklua Picture courtesy: The Pattaya News Banglamung Police have arrested four foreign workers residing illegally behind Naklua New Market in Chonburi province. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352018-four-illegal-workers-arrested-in-naklua/

Picture courtesy: The Pattaya News Banglamung Police have arrested four foreign workers residing illegally behind Naklua New Market in Chonburi province. The swift operation on 15th February uncovered that two of these individuals were living in Thailand without valid visas for over six years. The authorities’ raid targeted unlawful residency, a recurring issue in the bustling area of Naklua. The four arrested were detained and face legal proceedings, with deportation imminent for breaching immigration laws. These arrests highlight ongoing challenges in managing illegal immigration in Thailand. The authorities urge adherence to immigration regulations by both individuals and employers to avoid such pitfalls. With continued efforts, they aim to uphold lawful residency, ensuring community safety and regulatory compliance across the region, reported The Pattaya News. -- 2025-02-17

Chinese Driver Crashes SUV into Thai Home, Injures Two Photo via YouTube/ GMM25Thailand In an unsettling incident over the weekend, a Chinese driver collided his SUV into a rental home in Thailand's Prachin Buri province, leaving two occupants injured. This shocking event took place at approximately 9:30 pm on Saturday, February 15, in the district of Kabin Buri. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352005-chinese-driver-crashes-suv-into-thai-home-injures-two/

Photo via YouTube/ GMM25Thailand In an unsettling incident over the weekend, a Chinese driver collided his SUV into a rental home in Thailand's Prachin Buri province, leaving two occupants injured. This shocking event took place at approximately 9:30 pm on Saturday, February 15, in the district of Kabin Buri. The immediate scene, attended by officers from the Kabin Buri Police Station, was chaotic; a white Honda SUV could be seen partially embedded within the compromised structure of the house. The perpetrator, identified as a 37-year-old Chinese national, escaped with minor injuries himself. The victims, a Thai woman and a Laotian man who were residing in the house, also suffered injuries, though the specifics remain undisclosed. Camera footage from a nearby security system provided crucial insights. It captured the SUV hurtling through an intersection, suggesting that the driver possibly mistook the accelerator pedal for the brake upon encountering a red traffic signal. Police are yet to announce specific charges against the driver. However, precedent suggests he could be prosecuted under Section 390 of the Criminal Code for reckless driving resulting in injury. This offence carries a maximum penalty of one-month imprisonment or a fine of up to 10,000 Thai Baht, or possibly both. This incident draws parallels with several past accidents involving reckless or impaired driving. In March 2024, a similar crash took place in Lop Buri, when a drunk driver smashed a sedan into a beauty clinic. Thankfully, the staff inside escaped unscathed. Later, in July, a Thai driver in Phatthalung drove his sedan into a home, severely injuring an elderly resident. Sadly, no alcohol test was conducted at that scene. A particularly tragic case unfolded in Songkhla within the same year. There, a seemingly drug-affected driver rammed into a roadside pavilion during a school activity, resulting in the deaths of two students and injuries to thirteen others, highlighting the severe consequences of such negligence. These unfortunate events underscore the pervasive issue of dangerous driving in Thailand. Legal authorities face a continuing challenge to curb such incidents through stricter regulation and enforcement, emphasising the need for heightened public awareness and responsibility on the roads. As investigations proceed, it remains vital for justice to be served swiftly to deter future occurrences and safeguard community safety, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-17

Motorway Mayhem: 12 Cars Crash in Bangkok-Chonburi Race Picture courtesy: AMARIN TV A car race on the Bangkok-Chonburi motorway ended in chaos as twelve vehicles were involved in a massive pile-up. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352000-motorway-mayhem-12-cars-crash-in-bangkok-chonburi-race/

Picture courtesy: AMARIN TV A car race on the Bangkok-Chonburi motorway ended in chaos as twelve vehicles were involved in a massive pile-up. The crash occurred around 3:30 AM when modified cars, racing at high speeds, collided on the motorway. Thankfully, despite the scale of the accident, injuries were minor. According to Ronnachai Jaipet, a rescue worker from Sawang Prateep Sriracha, the crash took place near kilometre marker 91+800 in Sriracha, Chonburi. Picture courtesy: Amarin TV Emergency services arrived promptly, using hydraulic tools to rescue a man trapped in his car, who was then taken to hospital. The cars, reportedly heading towards Bangkok from Pattaya, started racing along the motorway before the incident. Authorities from the Highway Police are investigating, having documented the scene and intending to summon and question those involved, reported Amarin TV -- 2025-02-17

Fake Electricity Authority Call Center Scams Victim for 1 Million Baht Picture courtesy: Thai Rath In Sakhon Nakhon, a man was conned out of over 1 million baht by scammers pretending to be electricity officials. The perpetrators tricked him into clicking a link and facial scanning, causing his life savings to vanish. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351999-fake-electricity-authority-call-center-scams-victim-for-1-million-baht/