Georgealbert

Pictures courtesy of Daily News. A Middle Eastern touris, from UAE, found himself in an embarrassing situation after recklessly driving a white jeep onto Kamala Beach, only to become hopelessly stuck in the soft sand. The incident occurred in front of the Hyatt Regency Kamala Resort in Kathu District, Phuket. According to a video shared on the “Hodjang Phuket” Facebook page, officers from Kamala Police Station were seen assisting in the removal of the stranded vehicle. The 13-second clip sparked a flurry of online posts, with comments ranging from humorous to scathing. Social media users pointed out the obvious danger of driving onto the beach, with some noting that the tide could have reached the vehicle within the hour. Others expressed frustration, saying the driver should not have received help and should instead have faced harsher consequences. One comment read, “No need to help, fine them and let them figure it out themselves,” while another added, “Confiscate the vehicle. People like this should not be allowed to drive here.” Police later confirmed the vehicle bore Phuket registration plate บบ 3671. Officers used a water truck to haul the jeep off the beach before escorting the driver to Kamala Police Station. There, the tourist met with investigators and was issued an immediate fine of 5,000 baht for violating local traffic regulations. Adapted by Asean Now from Daily News 2025-06-15

The ban on Malaysian and any other foreign‑registered, passenger buses from traveling beyond Songkhla province stems from a provincial regulation enacted on August 1, 2014. The ban was introduced to protect Thai bus operators’ business. Songkhla Province implemented the rule to favor local companies, ensuring Thai buses continue to carry tourists from Malaysia within southern Thailand, instead of losing them to foreign buses. It was also in retaliation over cross‑border vehicle checks, with it being a reciprocal response to stricter checks Malaysia introduced in 2013 on Thai-registered vehicles. https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/general/2743326/songkhla-favours-expansion-of-foreign-bus-travel-beyond-province?utm_source=chatgpt.com

UPDATE On Jun 14th, Indian Government Officials reported there were 33 confirmed fatalities on the ground, thus 274 dead in total. Recovery work at the site is still ongoing Both flight data and cockpit voice recorder as well as the aircraft's ELT have been recovered. Adapted by Asean Now from Aviation Herald &nbsp2025-06-14

Foreign Man Damages ATM Outside Indian Restaurant in Pattaya After Card Is Swallowed Picture courtesy of SiamChon. Police are searching for a foreign national who caused significant damage to an ATM in Pattaya after his bank card was swallowed during a failed transaction. The incident occurred around 16:35 on 14 June, in front of an Indian restaurant on Thappraya Road in Pattaya, Chonburi province. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1363683-foreign-man-damages-atm-outside-indian-restaurant-in-pattaya-after-card-is-swallowed/

Picture courtesy of SiamChon. Police are searching for a foreign national who caused significant damage to an ATM in Pattaya after his bank card was swallowed during a failed transaction. The incident occurred around 16:35 on 14 June, in front of an Indian restaurant on Thappraya Road in Pattaya, Chonburi province. Police Lieutenant Kriangkrai Kaewpipop, Deputy Investigation Inspector of Pattaya City Police Station, received a report of the vandalism and quickly informed Pattaya police chief Colonel Anek Srathongyu before proceeding to the scene with officers. Upon arrival, authorities found the ATM, owned by a local bank, with visible damage to its display screen panal, which had been forcibly detached from the machine. Officers confirmed that the secure cash storage inside the ATM was unaffected. They attempted to reposition the screen, but it remained non-functional. Witnesses at the scene described the suspect as a tall foreign man who appeared to be intoxicated. According to bystanders, the man had attempted to withdraw cash but was unsuccessful despite multiple attempts. The machine then swallowed his card, reportedly triggering an angry outburst. “He was clearly frustrated,” said one witness. “He punched and kicked the screen, even kneeing it with full force. Eventually, the screen detached and he took what looked like a slip of paper, probably a receipt, but no money. Then he just walked away before the police got here.” Lieutenant Kriangkrai has since contacted the bank to determine whether they wish to file an official complaint. Meanwhile, Pattaya’s investigative police unit has been assigned to identify and locate the suspect for legal action. Adapted by Asean Now from SiamChon 2025-06-15

Cambodia Bans Thai Fruit & Agricultural Imports, Disrupting Trade in Trat Picture courtesy of Khaosod. The Cambodian government has imposed an indefinite ban on the import of Thai fruits and agricultural products through the Klong Yai border checkpoint in Trat province, beginning at noon on 14 June. The move, which came without explanation, has sparked concern and immediate disruption among Thai exporters and fruit traders. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1363682-cambodia-bans-thai-fruit-agricultural-imports-disrupting-trade-in-trat/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. The Cambodian government has imposed an indefinite ban on the import of Thai fruits and agricultural products through the Klong Yai border checkpoint in Trat province, beginning at noon on 14 June. The move, which came without explanation, has sparked concern and immediate disruption among Thai exporters and fruit traders. At 12:00 on 14 June, customs officials at Klong Yai in Klong Yai district received an official notice from their Cambodian counterparts at Koh Kong Customs that all agricultural products, including popular Thai fruits such as rambutans, mangosteens, and particularly durians, are now strictly prohibited from entering Cambodia. Trucks already in transit were instructed to unload their goods in Cambodia and return to Thailand immediately. Durians, already banned from entry, were highlighted once again as strictly forbidden. Mr. Nirote Wattirangkoon, head of the Klong Yai Customs checkpoint, confirmed the order from the Cambodian side, stating that it was issued at the direction of the Cambodian government. No formal reason for the ban was provided. “At this time, we have not issued an official notification to fruit exporters on the Thai side, but most operators involved in the cross-border trade are already aware of the situation,” Mr. Nirote stated. The border at Had Lek, another official checkpoint in Trat, also saw a halt in trade. That crossing typically facilitates the daily export of fruits to Cambodia, excluding durians, with an estimated 30 to 40 trucks crossing each day. Each truck carries produce valued between 15,000 and 20,000 baht. The sudden halt in trade is expected to inflict considerable losses on Trat’s fruit trading sector. Earlier that morning, over 10 fruit transport vehicles had queued at the Had Lek border checkpoint by 09:00, destined for Cambodia’s Cham Yeam market, where the goods were to be sorted and distributed further to Phnom Penh. Those shipments have now been abruptly halted. With no timeline or rationale provided for the ban, exporters and agricultural stakeholders on the Thai side are left in limbo, as they await further clarification from the Cambodian government or diplomatic intervention to resume the crucial cross-border trade. Adapted by Asean Now from Khasod 2025-06-15

Private Sector Raises Alarm Over Southern Thailand’s Tourism Slump as Chinese Visitors Vanish Picture courtesy of Matichon. Southern Thailand’s tourism sector is sounding the alarm over a noticeable decline in international tourist arrivals, with business leaders pointing to the suspension of Malaysian tour bus operations and the disappearance of Chinese tourists amid safety concerns. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1363681-private-sector-raises-alarm-over-southern-thailand’s-tourism-slump/

Picture courtesy of Matichon. Southern Thailand’s tourism sector is sounding the alarm over a noticeable decline in international tourist arrivals, with business leaders pointing to the suspension of Malaysian tour bus operations and the disappearance of Chinese tourists amid safety concerns. Mr. Songchai Mungprasitichai, President of the Songkhla Tourism Promotion Association, stated that tour operators in the region, who previously helped develop tourism markets in Phuket, Krabi, and Phang Nga targeting Malaysian and Singaporean travellers, have witnessed a sharp drop in cross-border traffic since local authorities restricted Malaysian tour buses from travelling beyond Songkhla province. “Currently, Songkhla does not permit Malaysian tour buses to travel beyond its borders, only private vehicles such as cars and vans. This has significantly disrupted the tourist flow to Phuket, Krabi, and Phang Nga during the low season,” said Mr. Songchai. Before the restrictions, some 7,000–8,000 Malaysian tourists arrived monthly by bus during the May–October low season, contributing to over 100,000 arrivals annually. With average spending of 10,000 baht per tourist, the region used to generate more than 1 billion baht each year from this segment alone. “European markets naturally slow down after the high season. That’s when we used to rely on regional tourists from Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, and also domestic travellers,” he added. Mr. Songchai also highlighted the impact of Thailand’s deteriorating image among Chinese tourists. According to feedback from overseas travel networks, concerns over safety, driven by reports of call centre scams and fraud targeting Chinese nationals, have led to widespread travel advisories and a sharp drop in arrivals. “Many Chinese tourists are now choosing alternative destinations in Asia such as Malaysia, Singapore, Vietnam, South Korea and Japan. The perception that Thailand is unsafe has had a profound impact on their decisions,” he said. Despite Thailand and Malaysia signing an MoU to allow mutual cross-border bus operations, Thai authorities have yet to implement the agreement effectively. Mr. Songchai urged southern provinces, including Phuket, Krabi, Phang Nga, Trang, and Nakhon Si Thammarat, to unite and petition the government to resolve the issue. He pointed to the economic benefits of reinstating cross-border travel, citing the success of Nakhon Si Thammarat’s annual Phra That Temple Robe Offering Festival, which alone attracts Malaysian devotees and circulates 300–400 million baht over a three-month period. He also noted that Thai tourists frequently travel to Malaysia by road via provinces such as Pattani, Yala, Narathiwat, Songkhla, and Satun and that the potential for outbound Thai tourism may currently outpace inbound travel from Malaysia. Meanwhile, Associate Professor Dr. Wiwat Chankringthong, Manager of the Business Innovation Research Centre at Hatyai University, revealed the results of a recent confidence index survey for southern Thailand. The study showed a decline in public confidence in May compared to April, largely due to stagnation in the tourism sector. Dr. Wiwat identified a dramatic drop in Chinese arrivals as a primary concern, attributing the decline to negative media coverage of tourist safety in Thailand, competition from neighbouring countries with active tourism promotion campaigns and more favourable safety perceptions elsewhere in Asia. As Chinese tourists shift to regional alternatives, Thailand is losing substantial revenue, with southern provinces bearing the brunt of the fallout. Stakeholders are now calling for urgent action to restore confidence, improve safety perceptions and revitalise long-standing cross-border tourism channels. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-06-15

UPDATE Double Murder Suspect Captured After Five-Day Forest Manhunt in Chiang Rai Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A 55-year-old man accused of brutally murdering his ex-wife and her younger brother has been captured after a five-day manhunt in the mountainous Thai–Lao border region. The suspect, identified only as Mr Songpor, was arrested in the evening of 13 June after emerging from the forest in search of food. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1363282-hunt-underway-in-chiang-rai-as-suspected-double-murderer-remains-at-large-village-in-fear/#findComment-19872590

UPDATE Double Murder Suspect Captured After Five-Day Forest Manhunt in Chiang Rai Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A 55-year-old man accused of brutally murdering his ex-wife and her younger brother has been captured after a five-day manhunt in the mountainous Thai–Lao border region. The suspect, identified only as Mr Songpor, was arrested in the evening of 13 June after emerging from the forest in search of food. Mr Songpor had been the subject of an intense manhunt since 8 June, when he allegedly killed his former wife and her brother at a residence in Ban Pang Kha, located in Por Subdistrict, Wiang Kaen District, Chiang Rai Province. He then fled into the forested hills along the Thai–Lao border. The capture took place around 20:30, at a house in Ban Tab Tao, Thoeng District. Weakened by hunger, Mr Songpor reportedly approached the home of a local resident to ask for food. The homeowner recognised him from media reports and immediately alerted authorities. A joint operation involving Wiang Kaen Police Station, Region 5 SWAT, Special Weapons Unit Yak Khratch 49, Thoeng District Administration, Border Patrol Police and Ranger Unit 3105 was swiftly deployed to the scene. Officers arrested Mr Songpor without resistance under an arrest warrant issued by Thoeng Provincial Court (warrant no. 95/2568) on charges of premeditated murder. Police suspect that the fugitive may have received assistance during his time on the run and have announced plans to expand the investigation to determine whether others were involved in aiding his escape. Mr Songpor is now in custody and will face prosecution in accordance with the law. The case has shocked the local community due to its violent nature and the involvement of a domestic relationship turned deadly. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-06-15

Yacht Wrecked by Storm Off Najomtien Beach Picture courtesy of ป๊อปพิฆาตชายฝั่ง A 41-foot sailing yacht was completely destroyed after being driven ashore by powerful waves late night on 13 June, crashing into a stone breakwater near Najomtien Soi 22 in Sattahip district, Chonburi province. Full Story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1363680-yacht-wrecked-by-storm-off-najomtien-beach/

Picture courtesy of ป๊อปพิฆาตชายฝั่ง A 41-foot sailing yacht was completely destroyed after being driven ashore by powerful waves late night on 13 June, crashing into a stone breakwater near Najomtien Soi 22 in Sattahip district, Chonburi province. The vessel, identified as “Suay” (meaning “beautiful” in Thai), hull number 516780914, was found in pieces, its wooden and fibreglass components shattered and strewn across the rocks. Onlookers at the scene included the distraught owner, 64-year-old Mr. Logan Hind, a Canadian national who stood silently watching what remained of his beloved boat. Mr. Hind, a long-time visitor to Thailand, said he had been coming in and out of the country for the past eight years, captivated by its stunning seascapes and natural charm. Speaking to officials, he explained that he had purchased the yacht for several hundred thousand baht, fulfilling a lifelong dream to explore Thailand’s coastal waters. “I fell in love with Thailand’s natural beauty,” Mr. Hind said, holding back tears. “This yacht was my dream. I took such good care of it. Seeing it in pieces like this, it’s heartbreaking.” According to Mr. Hind, the yacht was anchored offshore when violent waves struck around 21:00. The anchor failed to hold against the storm’s force, and the yacht was dragged onto the shore, colliding violently with a concrete breakwater. Mr. Hind, who had been at his residence in nearby Bang Saray at the time, only learned of the incident early morning. Najomtien Subdistrict Mayor Ms. Raphiphan Rattanaliam was notified of the incident by her secretary, Mr. Watthana Boonruang. She promptly dispatched officials to assist Mr. Hind and assess the situation. As the wreckage was beyond repair, Mr. Hind agreed to relinquish the remains of the vessel and its equipment to local authorities. Mr. Watthana was authorised to manage the cleanup. Local fishermen were invited to help salvage what they could, with any valuable parts to be sold and proceeds shared among the helpers as a goodwill gesture. Adapted by Asean Now from ป๊อปพิฆาตชายฝั่ง 2025-06-15

Central Investigation Bureau Nabs Cash Courier for Call Centre Scam Syndicate Picture courtesy of CIB. Officers from Thailand’s Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) have arrested a 36-year-old man from Phu Sang district for allegedly acting as a cash courier for a sophisticated call centre scam network. The suspect is accused of smuggling between 1 to 2 million baht in cash daily across the border into Laos, hidden inside a lorry. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1363679-central-investigation-bureau-nabs-cash-courier-for-call-centre-scam-syndicate/

Picture courtesy of CIB. Officers from Thailand’s Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) have arrested a 36-year-old man from Phu Sang district for allegedly acting as a cash courier for a sophisticated call centre scam network. The suspect is accused of smuggling between 1 to 2 million baht in cash daily across the border into Laos, hidden inside a lorry. The operation, led by the Technology Crime Suppression Division (TCSD), culminated in the arrest of Mr. Amphol, who faces multiple serious charges including conspiracy to commit public fraud by impersonation, introducing false or distorted computer data likely to cause public harm, conspiracy to commit money laundering, and involvement in a transnational criminal organisation. The investigation began after officers from TCSD Subdivision 3 launched a probe into a crypto trading scam on TikTok, which defrauded a victim of 1.8 million baht. The victim had been lured into investing in a fake cryptocurrency trading platform called “FOX Wallet.” Further inquiries revealed that the stolen funds had been dispersed across several mule accounts and laundered through multiple channels, including mobile payment platforms such as TrueMoney, in Phayao province. The money was also used to purchase luxury vehicles. An earlier operation, codenamed “FOX Hunt,” saw the arrest of eight individuals, including both Thai and Chinese nationals, in connection with the scheme. Authorities seized assets worth over 3 million baht during the raid. Continuing the investigation, police traced cash withdrawals in Phayao back to Mr. Amphol, who was allegedly tasked with physically transporting the money across the border to Laos. Acting on this information, officers gathered sufficient evidence to secure an arrest warrant and apprehend him. Mr. Amphol has been handed over to investigators from Subdivision 3 of the TCSD for further legal proceedings. The operation was conducted under the direction of Police Lieutenant General Jiraphop Phuridech, Commissioner of the CIB, with Police Major General Athip Phongsivapai, Commander of the TCSD, and Police Colonel Chitsanupong Waiwadee, Chief of Subdivision 3, overseeing the case. The CIB has reiterated its commitment to cracking down on transnational cybercrime and protecting the public from fraudulent investment schemes. Adapted by Asean Now from CIB 2025-06-15

Online Gambling Network ‘FAST24H’ Dismantled in Pattaya, Monthly Turnover Exceeded 9 Million Picture courtesy of Amarin. Cyber police have raided and dismantled an online gambling operation, known as “FAST24H,” based in the Pattaya area, which reportedly generated over 9 million baht in monthly turnover. Two suspects have been arrested in connection with the illegal website, which had more than 6,800 users nationwide. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1363678-online-gambling-network-‘fast24h’-dismantled-in-pattaya-monthly-turnover-exceeded-9-million/

Picture courtesy of Amarin. Cyber police have raided and dismantled an online gambling operation, known as “FAST24H,” based in the Pattaya area, which reportedly generated over 9 million baht in monthly turnover. Two suspects have been arrested in connection with the illegal website, which had more than 6,800 users nationwide. The raid was ordered by Pol. Lt. Gen. Trirong Phiwphan, Commissioner of the Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau (CCIB), under the policy direction of National Police Chief Pol. Gen. Kittirat Phanphuet. The operation was carried out by a combined task force, including Pol. Maj. Gen. Kritachaya Bamrung Rattanayot, Deputy Commissioner of the CCIB and several senior officers from both national cyber units and local forces. Armed with a warrant issued by the Pattaya Provincial Court (No. 117/2568), cyber police raided a condominium in Pattaya, where they arrested two individuals: Mr. Chanachai, 22, from Samut Sakhon province and Mr. Siwakorn, 24, from Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya province. Seized from the scene were two computers, a router, seven bank books, nine debit cards and two modified blank-firing handguns, one a .38 calibre and another .380 calibre, with 52 rounds of ammunition. The “FAST24H” platform offered a wide range of online gambling services including slot games, baccarat, poker, fish-shooting games, hi-lo, dragon-tiger, live casino games, lotteries and sports betting. Users deposited funds through Thai bank accounts and could request withdrawals online. The website had been in operation for four months and used automated systems with live chat support and promotional campaigns to attract new players. During questioning, Mr. Chanachai admitted to being an administrator responsible for creating video advertisements for the gambling site. Mr. Siwakorn managed digital marketing campaigns and ran online ads to attract new users. Both claimed to receive monthly compensation ranging from 20,000 to 40,000 baht. The two were charged with “organising, advertising, or persuading others, directly or indirectly, to gamble via electronic media without permission,” as well as “illegal possession and use of firearms and ammunition.” Further investigation revealed that Mr. Siwakorn was also the subject of an outstanding arrest warrant issued by the Thanyaburi Provincial Court (Warrant No. 211/2568, dated 27 February 2024), for alleged involvement in a violent nighttime home invasion and assault in Pathum Thani province. The suspects and seized evidence have been handed over to investigators for legal proceedings. Authorities have vowed to continue cracking down on online gambling operations that exploit vulnerable populations and promote illegal activity throughout the country. Adapted by Asean Now from Amarin 2025-06-15

UPDATE Songkhla Provincial Council Refuses to Remove ‘Golf’, Passes Responsibility to Governor File picture for reference only. The Songkhla Provincial Administrative Organisation Council (PAO Council) held a closed-door special session on 13 June, to discuss the potential removal of council member Mr Siradon Phlaidoung, known as “Sor Golf”, who represents Hat Yai District, Constituency 7. Mr Siradon is facing criminal charges and allegations of political misconduct. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360410-son-of-prominent-mp-sparks-violence-at-songkhla-polling-station/page/2/#findComment-19872568

UPDATE Songkhla Provincial Council Refuses to Remove ‘Golf’, Passes Responsibility to Governor File picture for reference only. The Songkhla Provincial Administrative Organisation Council (PAO Council) held a closed-door special session on 13 June, to discuss the potential removal of council member Mr Siradon Phlaidoung, known as “Sor Golf”, who represents Hat Yai District, Constituency 7. Mr Siradon is facing criminal charges and allegations of political misconduct. The meeting, chaired by council president Mr Taweesak Aranyadorn, began at 10:00 with 36 members in attendance. During the session, divided opinions emerged: one group of councillors pushed for an immediate vote to dismiss Mr Siradon, citing public pressure and damage to the council’s reputation. Another group, however, raised legal concerns, fearing future lawsuits and referenced a past ruling by the Supreme Administrative Court in Nakhon Ratchasima as a precedent. Ultimately, the council decided not to proceed with a vote on the matter, opting instead to refer the case to the Songkhla Governor for legal interpretation. The decision passed by a vote of 29 to 5 after lengthy discussions that ran from 09:49 to 12:05. Speaking after the meeting, Mr Taweesak explained that the council was concerned about potential conflicts with Article 72 of the council’s regulations, which stipulates that the accused must be given full opportunity to explain their case. There were also concerns about compliance with Article 30 of the Administrative Procedure Act B.E. 2539 (1996). Mr Taweesak confirmed that the council would act according to the Governor’s guidance once received. Vice-president of the council, Mr Worapong Prab, acknowledged that the controversy surrounding Mr Siradon had harmed the image of the council and admitted that councillors were deeply aware of public criticism. In a swift rebuttal later the same day, Songkhla Governor Mr Chotinrin Kerdsom clarified that the legal authority to remove a PAO councillor lies squarely with the council itself. He emphasised that the relevant PAO law clearly defines the responsibilities and procedures to be followed. Governor Chotinrin also addressed claims that the accused had not been given the chance to respond, stating that Article 30 of the Administrative Procedure Act allows proceedings to continue without a response if a valid reason exists. He urged the council to apply comprehensive legal judgement, not selectively interpret regulations. He added that while final rulings from courts or findings from independent agencies such as the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) could prompt removal by the governor, in the absence of such determinations, the PAO Council must act decisively and lawfully. This, he said, was essential to maintaining fairness, transparency and public trust in the accountability of local government institutions. Adapted by Asean Now from InsideThailand 2025-06-15

Mahidol Poll: Defence Ministry Tops List of Ministries Public Wants Reshuffled Picture courtesy of Amarin A recent nationwide survey conducted by Mahidol University reveals that nearly 88% of citizens want a Cabinet reshuffle, with the Ministry of Defence topping the list of ministries the public wants to see restructured. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1363677-mahidol-poll-defence-ministry-tops-list-of-ministries-public-wants-reshuffled/

Picture courtesy of Amarin A recent nationwide survey conducted by Mahidol University reveals that nearly 88% of citizens want a Cabinet reshuffle, with the Ministry of Defence topping the list of ministries the public wants to see restructured. The poll, titled “Do Thai People Want a Cabinet Reshuffle?” was carried out by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sunee Kalayachit and her team from the Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities at Mahidol University. Data was collected through a combination of face-to-face interviews, telephone calls and online questionnaires, sampling 11,802 people from across all regions of the country between 5 and 11 June. A resounding 87.6% of respondents said they support a Cabinet reshuffle. The main reasons cited included dissatisfaction with the government’s overall performance, especially in addressing economic hardship, lack of leadership and transparency, failure to deliver on promises and an inability to respond effectively to the needs and welfare of the population. There was also strong disapproval regarding corruption and governance, with frustration over unresolved regional issues such as the Thai-Cambodian border dispute. In contrast, 12.4% of respondents said they did not support a reshuffle, expressing confidence in the current government’s intentions and integrity, along with concerns that changes could disrupt continuity and cause unnecessary political instability. Some also feared a new Cabinet might lack experience or fall prey to political infighting. When asked which ministries they most wanted to see reshuffled, respondents named the following: 1. Ministry of Defence – 46.75% 2. Ministry of Finance – 41.86% 3. Ministry of Social Development and Human Security – 38.26% 4. Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives – 28.93% 5. Ministry of Tourism and Sports – 27.89% 6. Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment – 27.88% The high dissatisfaction with the Ministry of Defence comes amid ongoing controversies and public scrutiny, while concerns about economic management have pushed the Ministry of Finance to second place. The survey reflects growing public demand for more competent and accountable governance, as well as a desire for tangible improvements in people’s livelihoods, welfare policies and national leadership. Adapted by Asean Now from Amarin 2025-06-15

Foreign Motorcyclist Performs Dangerous Wheelies on Pattaya Streets Picture courtesy of Daily News. Social media users have expressed outrage after video clips emerged showing a foreign man performing dangerous motorcycle stunts on the busy streets of Pattaya. The footage, which has since gone viral, has sparked calls for immediate police action. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1363676-foreign-motorcyclist-performs-dangerous-wheelies-on-pattaya-streets/

Picture courtesy of Daily News. Social media users have expressed outrage after video clips emerged showing a foreign man performing dangerous motorcycle stunts on the busy streets of Pattaya. The footage, which has since gone viral, has sparked calls for immediate police action. In the first video, the foreign rider is seen engaging in a casual conversation at a red light with the person filming, apparently asking about their motorcycle model. As the traffic light turns green at a busy Pattaya North intersection, the man accelerates and immediately performs a wheelie, lifting the front wheel off the ground and speeding ahead through thick traffic. A second video, believed to have been filmed shortly afterwards, shows the same man riding along Jomtien Beach Road. Despite there being fewer people in the area at the time, he once again performs the same risky wheelie stunt, showing a blatant disregard for public safety. Both clips have drawn widespread condemnation online, with viewers slamming the rider’s reckless behaviour. Many social media users have labelled his actions as selfish and dangerous, warning that such stunts could lead to serious incidents. Critics have also questioned the apparent lack of police response, tagging law enforcement in posts and urging authorities to identify and prosecute the individual before any harm is done. Authorities have not yet confirmed whether any investigation has been launched, but pressure is mounting as the videos continue to circulate widely. Members of the public are demanding a swift and firm legal response to deter similar behaviour in the future. Adapted by Asean Now from Daily News 2025-06-15

Trat: Boy, 10, Killed as Storm Uproots Tree onto Fruit Farm Hut Picture courtesy of Matichon. A violent storm that swept through Trat province on the morning of 14 June, has claimed the life of a 10-year-old boy after a large tree was toppled onto a fruit farm shelter where he had been resting. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1363675-trat-boy-10-killed-as-storm-uproots-tree-onto-fruit-farm-hut/

Picture courtesy of Matichon. A violent storm that swept through Trat province on the morning of 14 June, has claimed the life of a 10-year-old boy after a large tree was toppled onto a fruit farm shelter where he had been resting. At 10:39, the Sawang Boonchuay Rescue Foundation received an emergency call reporting a tree collapse in Moo 4, Ban Khlong On, Non Sree Subdistrict, Bo Rai District. Rescue teams from the Bo Rai division rushed to the scene. Upon arrival, rescuers found that a large ma-mae tree (Antidesma bunius) had fallen due to powerful winds, crushing a small shelter situated in the middle of a fruit orchard. The boy, identified only as Phanu aged 10, had been lying down in the hut when the incident occurred. A steel beam struck his head, causing fatal injuries. Emergency crews had to use cutting equipment to remove the twisted metal and retrieve the boy’s body, as his devastated parents watched on in grief. The storm is part of a pattern of extreme weather that has battered parts of eastern Thailand in recent days, with officials urging residents to remain alert to further risks of falling trees and structural collapses during high winds. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-06-15