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20th anniversary: Phuket looks back on Boxing Day tsunami By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Chai Shop Films Two decades after the catastrophic Indian Ocean Tsunami, communities along Thailand’s Andaman coast, including Phuket, gathered today, Boxing Day, to honour the lives lost and reflect on the lessons learned from that fateful day in 2004. The disaster claimed an estimated 230,000 to 280,000 lives across multiple countries, with Thailand designating December 26 as National Disaster Prevention Day in its wake. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347180-remembering-the-2004-tsunami-in-phuket/

to continue: Thailand Live Friday 27 December 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1347244-thailand-live-friday-27-december-2024/

By Nattapong Westwood Thai influencer dies after alcohol stunt for 30,000 baht By Nattapong Westwood Bank Leicester, a well-known Thai influencer, has tragically died after being hired to consume an excessive amount of alcohol in exchange for 30,000 baht (US$880). Known for his unique approach of rapping while selling garlands to support his grandmother, Bank had gained significant popularity online. His untimely death occurred at approximately 3.40am, reportedly due to the drinking challenge. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347220-thai-influencer-dies-after-alcohol-stunt-for-30000-baht/

20th anniversary: Phuket looks back on Boxing Day tsunami By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Chai Shop Films Two decades after the catastrophic Indian Ocean Tsunami, communities along Thailand’s Andaman coast, including Phuket, gathered today, Boxing Day, to honour the lives lost and reflect on the lessons learned from that fateful day in 2004. The disaster claimed an estimated 230,000 to 280,000 lives across multiple countries, with Thailand designating December 26 as National Disaster Prevention Day in its wake. In Thailand alone, 5,078 lives were confirmed lost, 8,457 people injured, and 3,716 missing, presumed dead. Phang Nga bore the brunt of the tragedy, with over 4,100 confirmed fatalities, including 2,213 foreign tourists. In Phuket, 259 deaths were recorded, but hundreds remain unaccounted for. Eyewitnesses recalled the tsunami’s terrifying power. “Patong was severely affected. The water reached as high as a three-storey building,” said Weerawit Kruesombat, President of the Patong Entertainment Association. Mayor Chalermsak Maneesri narrowly escaped the waves, which struck at 10.40am. “The devastation was beyond words—overturned cars, scattered debris, and so many lives lost.” Locals like Khun Bo vividly remember the chaos. “The sea receded so far back the beach was dry. Minutes later, the waves returned with incredible force. I climbed a tree and clung on for hours.” Today, Phuket boasts enhanced tsunami defences, including 13 warning towers along its west coast and a buoy detection system offering up to 2.5 hours’ warning. Regular evacuation drills and community education initiatives aim to prevent a repeat of 2004’s tragedy, reported The Phuket News. Yet concerns linger. “Sometimes the buoys fail. We need better inland warning systems and evacuation plans.” Mayor Chalermsak emphasised the importance of preparedness. “Our rescue teams are well-trained, and warning systems are tested weekly. We’ve come a long way since 2004.” While the pain of the past endures, survivors and officials are united in their resolve to protect future generations from such devastation. An Australian father still mourns his teenage son lost to the waves 20 years ago. As the ocean roared back with walls of water up to 30 metres high, the 67 year old Aussie dad tried desperately to protect his son who had Down’s syndrome. Holding his son against a hotel pillar, the man was swept away by the sheer force of the wave. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-26

Thai bus ticket collector assaulted by passenger for rejecting his advances by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ Bangkokbusclub.com ชุมชนคนรักรถเมล์ A female public bus ticket collector sought justice after being physically assaulted by a male passenger for rejecting his advances. However, the Department of Land Transport allegedly blamed her for the incident, citing her impatience. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347176-thai-bus-ticket-collector-assaulted-by-passenger-for-rejecting-his-advances/

Photo via Facebook/ Bangkokbusclub.com ชุมชนคนรักรถเมล์ by Petch Petpailin A female public bus ticket collector sought justice after being physically assaulted by a male passenger for rejecting his advances. However, the Department of Land Transport allegedly blamed her for the incident, citing her impatience. The ticket collector, 24 year old Pichobon Yadee, shared details of the assault, which occurred on December 2 at around 4pm on a public bus number 2-33 (Bua Thong Keha–MRT Bang Sue), with the Facebook page Bangkok Bus Club, to seek justice. AdvertisementsPichobon disclosed that the assailant asked for her contact information, but when she refused, he became aggressive. Dashcam footage shared by the victim shows the man, wearing a blue T-shirt, handing his phone to her in the hope that she would provide her contact details. When she ignored him, he suddenly approached her, struck her on the shoulder, and promptly exited the bus. The matter escalated when the attacker filed a complaint against Pichobon with the Land Transport Ministry, accusing her of using vulgar language and behaving rudely during the incident. Photo via Facebook/ Bangkokbusclub.com ชุมชนคนรักรถเมล์ To defend herself, Pichobon presented the dashcam footage to ministry officials. However, instead of supporting her, the officials criticised her conduct stating… “You should remain calm. You are working in the hospitality industry.” Photo via Facebook/ Bangkokbusclub.com ชุมชนคนรักรถเมล์ Feeling denied justice by the authorities, Pichobon turned to the public by sharing the video. She also revealed that other ticket collectors encountered the same man, but none experienced the same level of aggression. The attacker was later identified as 21 year old Nopparat. He admitted to attempting to obtain the victim’s contact details because he found her attractive. While he expressed a willingness to apologise, he also claimed that Pichobon should provide better service to passengers. Photo via Amarin TV Nopparat’s father told Amarin TV that his son has autism and suggested that his actions might have been influenced by his condition. Pichobon acknowledged his condition but emphasised that his parents should take greater responsibility for their son’s care. She added that it was fortunate Nopparat did not commit further acts of violence. The two parties reached an agreement at Bang Kluay Police Station yesterday, December 24, after two hours of negotiation. Nopparat agreed to pay 4,000 baht in compensation. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-26

UPDATE Council of State Dispels Media Claims on Kittiratt's Eligibility for BoT Role Picture courtesy: Money and Banking The Council of State (CoS), serving as the Thai government's legal advisor, has dismissed recent media reports asserting that Kittiratt Na-Ranong has been ruled out as a candidate for the chairman of the Bank of Thailand (BoT) board. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347108-council-of-state-declares-kittiratt-unqualified-as-bot-board-chairman/#findComment-19470178

UPDATE Council of State Dispels Media Claims on Kittiratt's Eligibility for BoT Role Picture courtesy: Money and Banking The Council of State (CoS), serving as the Thai government's legal advisor, has dismissed recent media reports asserting that Kittiratt Na-Ranong has been ruled out as a candidate for the chairman of the Bank of Thailand (BoT) board. On Wednesday, Secretary-General Pakorn Nilprapunt clarified that the council has not yet issued any official decision regarding Kittiratt's eligibility for this prominent role. Media reports suggesting otherwise appear premature as the matter remains under scrutiny, with the CoS expected to deliberate on the issue later today. The ongoing evaluation follows an inquiry initiated by the Fiscal Policy Office under the Finance Ministry, questioning Mr Kittiratt's eligibility due to his stint as an adviser to ex-Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin—a role critics argue could compromise the BoT's impartiality. Permanent Secretary for Finance, Lawaron Sangsanit, countered assertions that he confirmed Kittiratt’s disqualification. Instead, he emphasized that the ministry sought the CoS's counsel for clarity on whether Kittiratt’s advisory role could be defined as political—a determination crucial to validating his candidacy for the BoT chairmanship. The procedural move aims to ensure the adherence to rigorous vetting required for such a significant appointment. "We approached the CoS to confirm the details because we're unsure about the qualification criteria," stated Lawaron. "We're awaiting their legal clarification." Should the CoS classify the advisory position as political, Kittiratt would indeed be disqualified from consideration. Such a verdict would necessitate the Finance Ministry to recommend an alternative candidate for the BoT chair. Despite the uncertainty, operational continuity at the BoT remains secure as the current deputy chairman, also the governor, is empowered to fulfil the chairman's responsibilities in an interim capacity. Amid this controversy, Kittiratt took to Facebook to express his commitment to respecting any forthcoming decision. He expressed gratitude to supporters who have vested their trust in his capabilities, regardless of the final outcome. Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira anticipates an official response from the CoS within the next couple of days, which will put to rest this contentious issue and allow the appointment process to progress. The situation underscores the meticulous balance of legal and political considerations inherent in high-profile governmental appointments, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-12-26

Thai woman falls from pedestrian bridge while trying to save dropped phone by Petch Petpailin Photo via Naewna A Thai woman sustained severe injuries after falling from a pedestrian bridge in Samut Prakan province near Bangkok while attempting to retrieve her dropped mobile phone. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347166-thai-woman-falls-from-pedestrian-bridge-while-trying-to-save-dropped-phone/

Photo via Naewna by Petch Petpailin A Thai woman sustained severe injuries after falling from a pedestrian bridge in Samut Prakan province near Bangkok while attempting to retrieve her dropped mobile phone. Officers from Phra Samut Jedhi Police Station and rescuers from the Por Tek Tung Foundation responded to the incident, which occurred beneath the pedestrian bridge near Soi Suksawat 48 at 5pm yesterday, December 24. Upon arrival, they found the injured woman, 29 year old Patthaya, lying face down on the road. Patthaya suffered a broken right arm, multiple broken teeth, a deep wound on her chin, and numerous scratches and bruises on her legs. Patthaya explained to rescuers that she had been on her way home and was speaking to her husband on the phone while walking across the pedestrian bridge. She stopped midway across the bridge to finish the call. As she attempted to place her phone in her bag, it slipped from her grasp and fell through the bridge’s handrail. In a moment of impulsive decision, she reached out to catch the phone but instead fell off the bridge along with it. Photo via Naewna A worker at a nearby electrical appliance shop, 20 year old Anchalee Thongboonrueng, witnessed the incident while sweeping the footpath outside the shop. Anchalee said she rushed to assist the victim and immediately called rescuers to the scene. Reports indicate that Patthaya’s injuries were severe, but no updates on her current condition have been provided. Photo via Naewna Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-26

Stranded on the beach: Foreign driver’s pickup gets stuck in Phuket [video] by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A yellow four-door pickup truck driven by a foreign driver became stuck on Mai Khao Beach in Phuket, causing a stir among both locals and online users. The mishap was captured in a 34-second video shared on Facebook which quickly drew attention and comments online. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347161-stranded-on-the-beach-foreign-driver’s-pickup-gets-stuck-in-phuket-video/

Photo courtesy of KhaoSod by Puntid Tantivangphaisal A yellow four-door pickup truck driven by a foreign driver became stuck on Mai Khao Beach in Phuket, causing a stir among both locals and online users. The mishap was captured in a 34-second video shared on Facebook which quickly drew attention and comments online. The video shows the vehicle stuck in the sand in front of a hotel, with the caption suggesting frustration at recurring events on the island. In the video, comments flooded in as viewers expressed disbelief at the situation, questioning why the driver attempted such a risky manoeuvre. Reactions ranged from curiosity about whether the vehicle could be freed from the sand to outright amusement at the predicament. Responding to one comment, the original poster remarked, “He’s crazy, don’t help him.” The person who uploaded the video later provided more context to the unfolding drama. Enjoying a relaxing day at Mai Khao Beach, they witnessed the pickup truck arriving at a parking area near the beach. Inside the vehicle were four foreigners, including the driver. All but the driver exited the truck, and it was then that the unexpected happened. Spurred on by his friends’ encouragement, the driver surprisingly decided to drive onto the sandy beach. This reckless decision led to the vehicle getting stuck in the sand, unable to move further or return to the road. The situation attracted attention from both local police and beachgoers, who eventually helped to tow the vehicle back to safety, reported KhaoSod. Such instances are not isolated, as Phuket’s popular beaches often attract adventurous tourists who sometimes underestimate the challenges posed by driving on sandy surfaces. Back in April, a British tourist found himself in a sticky situation after driving onto the sidewalk and getting trapped in the sand on Kamala Beach. The mishap led to police intervention and hefty fines for the Brit’s reckless escapade. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-26

Thai PM Pressured to Dissolve House Over Skyrocketing Power Costs PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra. File photo courtesy: Thai Rath Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra faces intense pressure to dissolve Thailand's House of Representatives over her perceived inability to address soaring power bills affecting Thai households. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347156-thai-pm-pressured-to-dissolve-house-over-skyrocketing-power-costs/

PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra. File photo courtesy: Thai Rath Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra faces intense pressure to dissolve Thailand's House of Representatives over her perceived inability to address soaring power bills affecting Thai households. Key leaders, including activist Nattapong Ruangpanyawut, hold her accountable for not achieving lower electricity rates—a pressing economic strain felt by consumers nationwide. Nattapong, a prominent people's leader, has urged the Prime Minister to take immediate responsibility and step down by dissolving the House. He argues this step is vital to pave the way for fresh elections and a new government that can tackle the lingering energy cost crisis more effectively. The crux of the discontent lies in Prime Minister Paetongtarn’s handling of decisions made by the National Energy Policy Council (NEPC), the governmental body managing power purchases and pricing. Critics, including Nattapong, argue that Paetongtarn, wielding significant influence, should have been able to guide NEPC decisions more forcefully, given that many council members also serve in her cabinet. Despite Paetongtarn's reasoning that she could not sway collective council decisions dominated by powerful energy producers like Ratch Group Pcl. and Gulf Energy Development Pcl., this defence has not satisfied her critics. Nattapong labelled her justifications as "lame and irrational," suggesting that her government’s claimed initiatives to lower electricity costs lacked genuine commitment or urgency. Adding to the intrigue, Prime Minister Paetongtarn’s father and Pheu Thai's influential figure, Thaksin Shinawatra, was seen playing golf recently with top energy executives and political figures, including Gulf Energy CEO Sarath Ratanavadi and Anutin Charnvirakul of Bhumjaithai. Such engagements raise eyebrows amidst ongoing fuel cost negotiations, stirring public and political speculation about potential conflicts of interest and backdoor dealings. The growing dissatisfaction over energy costs signifies a looming political showdown. Nattapong warns that unless Paetongtarn addresses the power rate crisis head-on, it could become a focal point for a likely no-confidence motion in Parliament. Meanwhile, her critics continue to clamor for immediate reforms or her resignation, painting a turbulent political picture as Thailand wrestles with its economic challenges. Whether Prime Minister Paetongtarn will act by dissolving the House or find another path to soothe discontent remains uncertain. As the situation unfolds, public attention focuses intently on how these critical economic and political decisions will shape Thailand’s near future, reported Thai Newsroom. -- 2024-12-26

Thaksin Predicts Pheu Thai Govt To Last Full Term Amid Challenges Picture courtesy: Thai Rath In a recent statement from Chiang Mai, Thaksin Shinawatra, an influential figure in Thai politics, confidently forecasted that the Pheu Thai-led coalition government, helmed by his daughter Paetongtarn Shinawatra, will persevere through its full four-year mandate until 2027. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347153-thaksin-predicts-pheu-thai-govt-to-last-full-term-amid-challenges/

Picture courtesy: Thai Rath In a recent statement from Chiang Mai, Thaksin Shinawatra, an influential figure in Thai politics, confidently forecasted that the Pheu Thai-led coalition government, helmed by his daughter Paetongtarn Shinawatra, will persevere through its full four-year mandate until 2027. Despite the potential for intracoalition disputes, Thaksin assured that these would be manageable, hinting at the party's resilience and adaptability among its members. Central to Thaksin's optimism is the ability of Pheu Thai, the coalition's dominant party, to mitigate tensions, particularly with Bhumjaithai, the second largest coalition partner led informally by Newin Chidchob. One major sticking point lies in the approach to amending the constitution. Pheu Thai favours a single-tier referendum while Bhumjaithai pushes for a double-tier system, showing a clear divide on procedural preferences. Nonetheless, Thaksin underscored that such differences would not endanger the alliance, dismissing speculation that Bhumjaithai would be expelled. Thaksin's stance appears to be one of cautious optimism, aiming to reassure both supporters and critics of the coalition's stability. In a hypothetical political crisis, Thaksin expressed confidence that Paetongtarn would maintain her role as Prime Minister without resorting to dissolving the House and prompting an early election. Her leadership, according to him, will stay firm throughout the legislative term, reflecting her father's strategic influence behind the scenes. This endurance is contextualised by Thaksin's personal history with Thai politics. Both he and his sister Yingluck Shinawatra were previously deposed from the premiership in 2006 and 2014 coups. Despite this historical backdrop, Thaksin expressed his belief that a military coup is unlikely to challenge his daughter's administration. Further countering his critics, Thaksin rejected claims of covertly controlling his daughter's government. In his characteristic manner, he encouraged those accusing him of undue influence to pursue legal avenues, if justifiable. For those tracking developments in Thailand's political landscape, Thaksin's assertions provide a glimpse into the delicate dynamics of the current coalition, valued for its estimated budget management skills worth over 6.3 trillion Baht. The coming months and years will test whether this coalition can indeed fulfil its term, balancing internal differences against the backdrop of Thailand’s broader political tensions, reported Thai Newsroom. -- 2024-12-26

Gorilla Smuggling Plot Destined for Thailand Discovered at Istanbul Airport FILE photo courtesy: Wikipedia In an unexpected turn of events, a Nakhon Pathom-based company in Thailand has come under investigation after a thwarted attempt to smuggle a baby gorilla was uncovered at Istanbul Airport. The young primate, destined for Bangkok, was intercepted by Turkish customs during a routine check, leading to an international probe that has stirred up significant concern. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347146-gorilla-smuggling-plot-destined-for-thailand-discovered-at-istanbul-airport/

FILE photo courtesy: Wikipedia In an unexpected turn of events, a Nakhon Pathom-based company in Thailand has come under investigation after a thwarted attempt to smuggle a baby gorilla was uncovered at Istanbul Airport. The young primate, destined for Bangkok, was intercepted by Turkish customs during a routine check, leading to an international probe that has stirred up significant concern. The capture of the gorilla occurred during a stopover from Nigeria en route to Thailand via Turkey. Customs officers, conducting a risk analysis at Istanbul's busy airport on 22nd December, discovered the animal crammed in a wooden crate amidst a shipment purportedly containing 50 rabbits. The absence of proper CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species) documentation further piqued their suspicions. Following this discovery, Thai authorities swiftly obtained a warrant to search TK Farm International Trading in Nakhon Pathom. The company, owned by Siriwat Suphakitkasem, is registered as an animal importer and breeder, with a known presence in Bangkok's bustling Chatuchak Market. The firm's owner, Mr Siriwat, claimed to have been contacted by David, an African national, requesting assistance to import the rabbits. For a fee of approximately 150,000 Thai Baht, Mr Siriwat’s company managed the customs and related paperwork. He asserted ignorance of the gorilla’s presence, insisting that he believed the shipment only contained the rabbits, which were duly processed. The present situation has raised suspicions about potential collusion involving airport staff in both Thailand and Nigeria, speculating that TK Farm may merely be a pawn in a larger wildlife trafficking network. The investigation is widening, as authorities seek to authenticate the legal status of other animals at TK Farm and unravel any deeper illicit connections. Gorillas, listed in Appendix I by CITES, are strictly prohibited for import into Thailand. Currently, only one gorilla, named Bua Noi, resides in the country. Imported prior to the enforcement of CITES regulations in 1992, Bua Noi has lived in captivity at a department store zoo in Bangkok for decades, amidst ongoing campaigns from animal rights advocates demanding her release. As Turkish veterinarians continue to care for the rescued gorilla, the complexities of this international smuggling attempt underscore the persistent threats faced by endangered species and amplify calls for stringent enforcement against wildlife trafficking. The unfolding investigation promises to shed light on what appears to be a well-organised, yet unlawful trade targeting one of nature’s most vulnerable inhabitants, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-12-26

Drunken Foreign Couple Causes Chaos at Pattaya Hotel, Woman Detained After Fleeing A foreign couple’s drunken antics caused a commotion at a beachfront hotel in Pattaya in the early hours of Christmas Day. The woman, heavily intoxicated, was eventually detained after resisting hotel staff and attempting to flee the scene. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1347120-drunken-foreign-couple-causes-chaos-at-pattaya-hotel-woman-detained-after-fleeing/

Foreign Rider Dies in Motorcycle Crash in Pattaya A motorcycle collision claimed the life of a foreign man and left two others injured in Pattaya on December 24. The collision occurred at approximately midday in Soi Arunothai, Central Pattaya, when two motorcycles collided head-on. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347103-foreign-rider-dies-in-motorcycle-crash-in-pattaya/

Chicken Rice Vendor Saves Italian Tourist with CPR A heartwarming act unfolded at a local chicken rice restaurant in Phuket, when a vendor saved the life of an Italian tourist who suddenly collapsed while dining. The quick-thinking restaurant owner, who had CPR training, performed life-saving measures that ensured the tourist’s survival. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1347102-chicken-rice-vendor-saves-italian-tourist-with-cpr/

Council of State Declares Kittiratt Unqualified as BOT Board Chairman Picture courtesy: Naew Na In a recent development that has raised eyebrows across Thailand's financial and political sectors, the Council of State has ruled Kittiratt Na-Ranong unsuitable to serve as board chairman of the Bank of Thailand. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347108-council-of-state-declares-kittiratt-unqualified-as-bot-board-chairman/

to continue: Thailand Live Thursday 26 December 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1347125-thailand-live-thursday-26-december-2024/

President-elect Donald Trump speaks at AmericaFest, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2024, in Phoenix. Rick Scuteri/AP President-elect Donald Trump said on Tuesday he will direct the Department of Justice to “vigorously pursue the death penalty” after President Joe Biden on Monday commuted the death sentences of 37 federal inmates to life in prison. “As soon as I am inaugurated, I will direct the Justice Department to vigorously pursue the death penalty to protect American families and children from violent rapists, murderers, and monsters. We will be a Nation of Law and Order again!” Trump wrote on Truth Social, echoing his long-standing advocacy for use of the death penalty, which was part of his tough-on-crime rhetoric during the 2024 campaign. After Biden’s commutation of most federal death row inmates – which Trump on Truth Social said “makes no sense” – there will be just three individuals in federal prison facing the death penalty when the president-elect takes office in January. Full story: CNN -- 2024-12-26

Escapee Drew Johnson was captured on Wednesday in an area near the South Mississippi Correctional Institution. Mississippi Department of Corrections (CNN) A convicted murderer who escaped from a Mississippi state prison on Christmas Eve was captured Wednesday, according to a Mississippi Department of Corrections post on Facebook. Drew Johnson was captured in an area near the prison, the post said. Sentenced to life in prison on Valentine’s Day in 2022, Johnson managed to escape from Mississippi’s newest state prison in Greene County nearly three years later on Christmas Eve, according to the Mississippi Department of Corrections. Authorities in Mississippi had described Johnson as “desperate” and “very very dangerous.” Full story: CNN -- 2024-12-26