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Crackdown on Drink Driving: 19 Drivers Fitted with EM Bracelets in One Day Picture courtesy: Daily News As the New Year celebrations are underway, courts in Thailand have taken a firm stance on driving offences. On 30th December, the fourth day of the intensified "10 Dangerous Days" campaign, 2,032 cases were sent to probation processes. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347673-crackdown-on-drink-driving-19-drivers-fitted-with-em-bracelets-in-just-one-day/

Thai Politics Poised for Potential Turmoil Amidst Economic Strains File photo courtesy: Wikipedia ANALYSIS Thailand's political scene is bracing for potential upheaval as waning public confidence in the government's economic management casts a shadow over the Pheu Thai Party-led administration. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347676-thai-politics-poised-for-potential-turmoil-amidst-economic-strains/

File photo courtesy: Wikipedia ANALYSIS Thailand's political scene is bracing for potential upheaval as waning public confidence in the government's economic management casts a shadow over the Pheu Thai Party-led administration. Parliament President Wan Muhammad Noor Matha has voiced concerns that unresolved economic issues, now as the government nears the midpoint of its four-year term, could stir political unrest. Public dissatisfaction with the government's handling of the economy, if unabated, could challenge the administration's ability to serve its complete term. However, Mr Wan hinted at a potential outcome: if the government can address these economic grievances effectively, public satisfaction might enable it to endure until the elections. He has observed a notable improvement in parliamentarians’ conduct compared to previous ones. Debates have been more constructive, and importantly, parliamentary sessions have not faltered due to lack of attendance—encouraging signs that might bolster public trust in parliament. Contrarily, People’s Party leader Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut plans to initiate a censure debate against the government by March, underscoring newfound opposition determination. While admitting past oversight inadequacies, his focus will now sharpen on scrutinising government operations, especially regarding laws pivotal to constitutional revisions. On the other hand, Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai remains optimistic about the government's prospects, despite looming challenges. Among these hurdles are maritime territorial disputes with neighbouring Cambodia and the speculated return of former Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra, events that could reignite political tensions. Yingluck Shinawatra, having left Thailand in 2017 before a five-year jail sentence for a controversial rice subsidy scheme, might soon stage a return. Some analysts predict her homecoming could evoke similarities to her brother Thaksin’s return, potentially fuelling political disturbance. Despite these prospects, Mr Phumtham, also the defence minister, dismisses fears of imminent tumult or a military coup, asserting that if Yingluck returns, adherence to legal protocols would negate any justification for a coup. Meanwhile, Yingluck has publicly extended New Year wishes for prosperity and resilience to the Thai populace. As Thailand enters a new year fraught with economic and political uncertainties, the government stands at the crossroads, with its ability to navigate current crises critically determining its longevity in power, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-01-02

Firework Mishap Injures Tourists in Pattaya Picture courtesy of TMN A fireworks incident in Pattaya, during New Year’s Eve celebrations left two persons injured, despite repeated warnings to cease unsafe activities. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1347641-firework-mishap-injures-tourists-in-pattaya/

Deadly New Year Roads: 215 Deaths in Five Days Thailand’s roads have proven deadly once again during the New Year holiday season, with 215 lives lost just five days into the “10 Dangerous Days” road safety campaign, officials revealed today. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1347645-deadly-new-year-roads-215-deaths-in-five-days/

to continue: Thailand Live Thursday 2 January 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1347637-thailand-live-thursday-2-january-2025/

File photo courtesy: Bangkokbiz News Bank of Thailand Boosts Mobile Security with New Transfer Limits In a strategic move to bolster the security of mobile banking, the Bank of Thailand (BoT) is putting mechanisms in place to protect vulnerable users such as teenagers and the elderly. The plan introduces a daily transfer cap of 50,000 baht for these groups, aiming to shield them from fraud and financial abuse. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347631-bank-of-thailand-boosts-mobile-security-with-new-transfer-limits/

Bank of Thailand Boosts Mobile Security with New Transfer Limits File photo courtesy: Bangkokbiz News In a strategic move to bolster the security of mobile banking, the Bank of Thailand (BoT) is putting mechanisms in place to protect vulnerable users such as teenagers and the elderly. The plan introduces a daily transfer cap of 50,000 baht for these groups, aiming to shield them from fraud and financial abuse. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347631-bank-of-thailand-boosts-mobile-security-with-new-transfer-limits/

File photo courtesy: Bangkokbiz News In a strategic move to bolster the security of mobile banking, the Bank of Thailand (BoT) is putting mechanisms in place to protect vulnerable users such as teenagers and the elderly. The plan introduces a daily transfer cap of 50,000 baht for these groups, aiming to shield them from fraud and financial abuse. Feedback from the public has already been gathered by the BoT as it gears up to amend regulations surrounding financial service security. The focus is on curbing the risks associated with mobile banking apps, which have become increasingly popular yet fraught with security concerns. Prime groups affected by these changes include the elderly and individuals under the age of 15. Considered more susceptible to scams, these users often fall prey to fraudsters who dupe them into sending large sums of money. By instituting a daily transfer limit, the BoT is taking proactive steps to safeguard their financial wellbeing. Beyond limiting transfers for certain users, banks will also be required to enhance their mobile app security protocols. Transactions over 50,000 baht per instance, or exceeding 200,000 baht daily, must incorporate advanced measures like facial recognition and biometric verification to thwart identity theft and unauthorized access. Moreover, the BoT stipulates that mobile banking providers implement robust security technology to defend against malware and hacking - including ensuring apps do not function on jailbroken devices or those employing outdated operating systems. The announcement of these stringent measures is expected this month. The BoT aims for all non-bank service providers under its oversight to adhere to equivalent security standards by early next year. A step further in regulatory efforts, there's an ongoing discussion regarding the liability of financial institutions in cases of fraudulent transfers. Drawing inspiration from Singapore's Cyber Security Agency, the BoT is considering frameworks that would define institutional responsibility and liability sharing between banks and regulatory bodies in the event of fraudulent activity. The amended regulations will also impose stricter penalties on entities peddling customer data—a significant loophole currently exploited by scammers. In a recent incident, BoT spokesperson Chayawadee Chaianan highlighted a complaint in Udon Thani, where an auditing firm claimed a loss of 2 million baht via mobile banking. The BoT has since instructed the banks involved to meticulously probe the matter, underscoring the urgent need for vigilance on account activity, particularly for business clients. By reforming digital transaction protocols, the BoT is not only fortifying the financial landscape against fraud but also reinforcing trust in Thailand's digital banking future, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-01-01

Holidays by Nick Youngson CC BY-SA 3.0 Alpha Stock Images Holidays and Observances in Thailand in 2025 1 Jan Wednesday New Year's Day National Holiday 11 Jan Saturday National Children's Day Observance 16 Jan Thursday Teachers' Day Observance 29 Jan Wednesday Chinese New Year's Day Observance 30 Jan Thursday Second Day of Chinese New Year Observance 31 Jan Friday Third Day of Chinese New Year Observance 12 Feb Wednesday Makha Bucha National Holiday 14 Feb Friday Valentine's Day Observance 20 Mar Thursday March Equinox Season 6 Apr Sunday Chakri Day National Holiday 7 Apr Monday Day off for Chakri Day National Holiday 13 Apr Sunday Songkran National Holiday 14 Apr Monday Songkran Holiday National Holiday 15 Apr Tuesday Songkran Holiday National Holiday 16 Apr Wednesday Songkran Observed National Holiday 1 May Thursday Labor Day Bank holiday 4 May Sunday Coronation Day National Holiday 5 May Monday Day off for Coronation Day National Holiday 11 May Sunday Visakha Bucha National Holiday 12 May Monday Day off for Visakha Bucha National Holiday 2 Jun Monday Bridge Public Holiday National Holiday 3 Jun Tuesday Queen Suthida's Birthday National Holiday 21 Jun Saturday June Solstice Season 10 Jul Thursday Asalha Bucha National Holiday 28 Jul Monday King Vajiralongkorn's Birthday National Holiday 11 Aug Monday Bridge Public Holiday National Holiday 12 Aug Tuesday The Queen's Birthday National Holiday 23 Sep Tuesday September Equinox Season 13 Oct Monday Anniversary of the Death of King Bhumibol National Holiday 23 Oct Thursday Chulalongkorn Day National Holiday 31 Oct Friday Halloween Observance 5 Dec Friday King Bhumibol's Birthday/Father's Day National Holiday 10 Dec Wednesday Constitution Day National Holiday 21 Dec Sunday December Solstice Season 24 Dec Wednesday Christmas Eve Observance 25 Dec Thursday Christmas Day Observance 31 Dec Wednesday New Year's Eve National Holiday While we diligently research and update our holiday dates, some of the information in the table above may be preliminary. Source: https://www.timeanddate.com/holidays/thailand/2025

People's Party Takes Lead Over Pheu Thai in Latest Nida Poll Natthapong Ruengpanyawut. Picture courtesy: Wikipedia Natthapong Ruengpanyawut, the leader of the opposition People’s Party, is emerging as the leading candidate for Thailand's prime minister, slightly surpassing current Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, as reflected in the latest opinion poll conducted by the National Institute of Development Administration (Nida). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347481-peoples-party-takes-lead-over-pheu-thai-in-latest-nida-poll/

Natthapong Ruengpanyawut. Picture courtesy: Wikipedia Natthapong Ruengpanyawut, the leader of the opposition People’s Party, is emerging as the leading candidate for Thailand's prime minister, slightly surpassing current Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, as reflected in the latest opinion poll conducted by the National Institute of Development Administration (Nida) from December 19 to 24. The results indicate significant shifts in political favour as the nation anticipates its forthcoming elections. The poll, which sampled 2,000 individuals across the country, revealed that 29.85% of respondents preferred Natthapong for the premiership. His appeal seems rooted in his commitment to party values and his appeal to younger voters. These elements have evidently resonated well, giving him a slight edge over frontrunner Paetongtarn Shinawatra, who garnered 28.80% support. Paetongtarn, the current leader of the ruling Pheu Thai Party and progeny of former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra, is seen as a modern leader with an understanding of business administration, which has earned her considerable support. While enthusiasm for Natthapong and Paetongtarn dominates, 14.40% of respondents remain undecided, indicating potential fluidity in public opinion as election season heats up. Other figures in the political fray include Energy Minister Pirapan Salirathavibhaga of the United Thai Nation Party, who attracted 10.25% of the respondents' votes. He is perceived as a knowledgeable legal expert and approachable leader. Meanwhile, Anutin Charnvirakul, leading the Bhumjaithai Party—the second largest in the coalition—received 6.45% endorsement, recognised for his dedication to national development. Further down the popularity scale, Khunying Sudarat Keyuraphan of Thai Sang Thai claimed 4.95%, Gen Prawit Wongsuwon of Palang Pracharath gathered 1.70%, and Chalermchai Sri-on of the Democrat Party attracted 1.05%. In terms of party preference, the People’s Party appears to have solidified its lead, capturing support from 37.30% of respondents. This surpasses Pheu Thai, which now holds 27.70% of the respondents' backing. The Thai United Nation, Bhumjaithai, Democrat, and Palang Pracharath parties trail with 10.60%, 5.15%, 3.40%, and 3.05% support respectively. These shifting poll results underscore a dynamic political landscape in Thailand, where political allegiances are evolving as the election draws near. Once the quintessential choice, Pheu Thai now faces a formidable challenge from the ascending People’s Party, setting the stage for an intriguing electoral contest, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-12-30

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod by Bright Choomanee A long-tail boat carrying passengers from Koh Phangan capsized after being struck by massive waves, leaving 13 passengers adrift in the sea and one Korean national missing. The incident, which occurred today, December 29, has raised serious concerns about safety regulations, as it was revealed that the boat’s captain was under the influence of drugs, and none of the passengers were wearing life jackets. The local police station on Koh Phangan received an emergency call about the capsized long-tail boat at Haad Rin Nok Bay. The boat was carrying a total of 13 people, including 10 passengers and three crew members. Upon receiving the report, the officials, led by Panya Nirattimanon, coordinated rescue efforts involving multiple local agencies, including the Koh Phangan Subdistrict Municipality and the Koh Phangan Regional Harbour Office. At the scene, the capsized boat was found floating near Haad Rin Bay. Officials managed to rescue all but one of the passengers. Those rescued included nationals from Turkey, the Netherlands, Japan, and Germany, alongside several Thai nationals. The missing individual, identified as Hyunjin from Korea, was reportedly planning to open a Japanese restaurant with his Japanese partner, Miyuki Murata, who was among the survivors. “The group of passengers were friends who had hired the long-tail boat to take them to Haad Yuan,” Nirattimanon explained. “The boat had barely travelled 50 meters from the shore when it was hit by large waves. It managed to navigate through three waves, but the fourth wave caused the boat to lose stability and capsize. Unfortunately, none of the passengers were wearing life jackets.” Boat capsized Further investigations revealed that the boat’s captain, Patthanapong Saetiew, tested positive for methamphetamine. He has been charged with the use of a category 1 narcotic drug. Additionally, regulatory checks by the Koh Phangan Regional Harbour Office discovered that the boat, named Phichitchai, was improperly registered and not compliant with safety standards. The boat was a type of motorised vessel specifically designed for local sea navigation, capable of carrying up to fifteen passengers. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-30

Tourist boat capsizes off Koh Phangan, Korean national missing by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A long-tail boat carrying passengers from Koh Phangan capsized after being struck by massive waves, leaving 13 passengers adrift in the sea and one Korean national missing. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347469-tourist-boat-capsizes-off-koh-phangan-korean-national-missing/

Fire at Lopburi hospital ICU leads to 81 patient evacuation by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A blaze erupted at Ananda Mahidol Hospital, specifically in the basement ICU, prompting the swift evacuation of 81 patients. The governor of Lopburi led the emergency response team on site to manage the situation efficiently. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347468-fire-at-lopburi-hospital-icu-leads-to-81-patient-evacuation/

Former Thai PM Yingluck May Escape Prison if 5-Year Sentence is Reduced File photo: Former Thai prime minister Yingluck Shinawatra The former Thai prime minister, Yingluck Shinawatra, may soon evade her pending prison term if a new regulation allows for the reduction of her five-year sentence by one year. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347479-former-thai-pm-yingluck-may-escape-prison-if-5-year-sentence-is-reduced/

File photo: Former Thai prime minister Yingluck Shinawatra The former Thai prime minister, Yingluck Shinawatra, may soon evade her pending prison term if a new regulation allows for the reduction of her five-year sentence by one year. This update comes from Thailand's Department of Corrections, with Director-General Sahakarn Phetnarin explaining that the imminent regulation could permit out-of-prison detention for convicts whose sentences are shortened to four years or less. Given Yingluck's five-year sentence, she could qualify for this arrangement if her term is officially commuted. Upon entering prison, Yingluck would have the opportunity to request a royal pardon to reduce her sentence, making her eligible for home detention. If approved for home-based detention, necessary measures such as CCTV installation and, potentially, electronic monitoring devices would be required to ensure compliance. However, this new regulation excludes convicts incarcerated for sexual offences, violent crimes, and significant narcotics violations. Yingluck, now 57, fled Thailand in August 2017. She absconded before the Supreme Court's Criminal Division for Holders of Political Positions could rule on her involvement in the controversial rice-pledging scheme which resulted in losses estimated at over 500 billion Thai Baht. Following her absence, the court sentenced her to five years in abstentia, with an active arrest warrant still in place. Interestingly, her brother, Thaksin Shinawatra, made headlines upon his return to Thailand last year, intending to serve his jail sentence. His initial night was spent in hospital before he received parole, setting a precedent that many speculate could influence Yingluck's case. Thaksin has hinted at his sister’s return, suggesting that Yingluck could come back to Thailand by April next year. As developments unfold, this potential regulation might be a significant turning point in the Shinawatras' ongoing legal saga, possibly paving a path for Yingluck’s return under the comfort of home detention rather than strict incarceration, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-12-30

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod by Bright Choomanee A blaze erupted at Ananda Mahidol Hospital, specifically in the basement ICU, prompting the swift evacuation of 81 patients. The governor of Lopburi led the emergency response team on site to manage the situation efficiently. Yesterday, December 28, an intense fire broke out late at night in the ICU section of Ananda Mahidol Hospital, located in Lopburi’s Mueang District. This incident led to a rapid response by the Lopburi Provincial Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Office. Numerous firefighting and rescue units from various municipalities were dispatched to the scene. The determined efforts of these teams managed to bring the fire under control by 1am. Although the fire was extinguished, an assessment of the total damage is yet to be completed. The initial investigation indicated that the fire was caused by a battery short circuit in the basement of a six-storey building, which led to flames and thick black smoke. At the time of the incident, there were critically ill patients and other individuals within the building. Consequently, emergency personnel and various departments coordinated the evacuation of all 81 patients from the premises. The evacuated patients included 14 male geriatric patients, three critically ill children, five semi-critical patients, 10 female orthopaedic patients, 20 male surgical patients, 11 children, one infant, two VIP patients, and 16 female medical patients. This comprehensive evacuation plan ensured that all individuals were safely relocated from the affected area, reported KhaoSod. Following the evacuation, six critically ill patients were transferred to nearby hospitals to receive continued care. These included one patient sent to Mueang Narai Hospital, four patients to Phra Narai Hospital, and one patient to Phramongkutklao Hospital. Notably, there were no injuries or fatalities resulting from this incident. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-30

Pattaya man seriously injured by wife in new year’s knife attack by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A construction worker in Pattaya found himself in a dire situation when his wife, angered by his refusal to return home from new year’s celebrations, attacked him with a knife. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347475-pattaya-man-seriously-injured-by-wife-in-new-year’s-knife-attack/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod by Bright Choomanee A construction worker in Pattaya found himself in a dire situation when his wife, angered by his refusal to return home from new year’s celebrations, attacked him with a knife. The incident, which took place at a construction camp in Soi Mab Yai Lia 22, Nong Prue, Bang Lamung, Chon Buri, left the man with severe facial injuries, including a partially severed nose. Rescue volunteers from Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan arrived promptly, administering first aid before rushing the victim to a hospital. His wife, responsible for the assault, had already left the scene by the time police arrived. Witnesses present at the construction site provided insight into the events leading up to the violent altercation. The husband had been drinking with friends when his wife arrived to bring him home. Her efforts were met with resistance, sparking a heated argument. In a fit of rage, she grabbed a kitchen knife and slashed his face, leaving him with gruesome injuries that required immediate medical attention. The couple’s tumultuous relationship, marked by frequent arguments, was well-known among their peers. Onlookers recounted that similar incidents had occurred in the past, with the wife having previously stabbed her husband, nearly causing fatal injuries. Despite the volatility, the husband remained committed to the marriage due to his deep affection for his wife, although alcohol-fueled disputes had become a regular occurrence between them, reported KhaoSod. “Before the argument escalated, she parked her vehicle at the entrance of the camp, intending to retrieve her husband. He was enjoying drinks with friends in celebration of the new year when the confrontation unfolded,” one witness explained, reported KhaoSod. The scene became chaotic as blood flowed from the man’s wounds, prompting a swift response from rescue personnel. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-30

Phuket teacher investigated for alleged molestation of students by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Eakkapop Thongthub A teacher from an elementary school in Phuket is currently under investigation following allegations of molestation made by the parents of two young students. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347473-phuket-teacher-investigated-for-alleged-molestation-of-students/

Picture courtesy of Eakkapop Thongthub by Bright Choomanee A teacher from an elementary school in Phuket is currently under investigation following allegations of molestation made by the parents of two young students. These serious claims have prompted police to look into the matter, raising concerns about the safety of children at the institution. Deputy Chief of Investigations at Phuket City Police Station, Pawiinuch Kongsut, shared details of the case, noting that the first complaint was filed on December 27 by parents of an eight year old girl. According to the report, the young girl confided in her parents about an incident earlier that day, where a male social studies teacher allegedly kissed her on the cheek and touched her stomach inappropriately. The girl revealed that this was not an isolated event and that similar incidents had been occurring over a while, affecting not only her but also several of her friends. This alarming disclosure prompted the parents to seek help from the police. Later on the same day, another set of parents came forward with a similar complaint involving their eight year old daughter. They recounted a disturbingly similar experience, where the same teacher allegedly kissed their daughter on the cheek and inappropriately touched her stomach and breast areas. “We are deeply concerned that such inappropriate behaviour has been ongoing and could potentially continue if no action is taken,” expressed the parents in their statements to the police. Despite the lack of physical evidence beyond the testimonies of the young girls, the parents remain hopeful that their joint complaints will encourage a thorough investigation into the teacher’s conduct, reported The Phuket News. Police have not disclosed the name of the school or the identities of those involved, maintaining confidentiality as the investigation unfolds. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-30

Proposed Entertainment Complex Bill Draws Criticism for Its Focus on Casinos File photo courtesy: Wikipedia The proposal for Thailand's new Entertainment Complex Bill, up for cabinet review next month, has come under scrutiny from the Stop Gambling Foundation. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347443-proposed-entertainment-complex-bill-draws-criticism-for-its-focus-on-casinos/

UPDATE Offical Death Toll Rises to 176 in South Korean Plane Crash Pictures of the body search and recovery process. At least 176 people have been confirmed dead after a Jeju Air passenger jet carrying 181 people crash-landed and exploded at Muan International Airport in South Korea. The tragic accident, which occurred on Sunday morning, is one of the deadliest aviation disasters in the country’s history. 3 persons are still listed as missing. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347425-jeju-air-flight-from-bangkok-skids-off-runway-at-muan-airport-28-dead/page/3/#findComment-19478263