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New Electric Cart Crashes After Nanny Puts It in Wrong Gear Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A newly purchased electric cart crashed through a residential home just a day after being brought home, in an incident that fortunately left no one injured. The cart, driven by the family’s nanny, ploughed into the property after she allegedly put it into the wrong gear and failed to release the accelerator in time. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360956-new-electric-cart-crashes-after-nanny-puts-it-in-wrong-gear/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A newly purchased electric cart crashed through a residential home just a day after being brought home, in an incident that fortunately left no one injured. The cart, driven by the family’s nanny, ploughed into the property after she allegedly put it into the wrong gear and failed to release the accelerator in time. The incident occurred on 14 May 2025 at approximately 17.30, when the nanny was attempting to take the family’s eldest child to a nearby convenience store using the electric vehicle, which had been bought the previous day. CCTV footage from the home shows the vehicle suddenly smashing through the glass doors of the house. The homeowner, identified only as Khun Pu, recounted the terrifying moment, saying, “It was just sheer luck that no one was hurt. If we hadn’t jumped out of the way in time, someone could have been seriously injured. The shattered glass alone could have caused grave harm.” Initial claims by the nanny suggested the car’s accelerator had stuck, causing it to lurch uncontrollably. However, upon inspection by electric vehicle technicians, it was confirmed that the cart was in perfect working condition. Further scrutiny of CCTV footage reportedly showed the nanny switching the gear from reverse to drive just moments before the collision, leading to speculation that she had become disoriented and panicked, mistakenly pressing the accelerator instead of the brake. Feeling deeply remorseful, the nanny voluntarily resigned from her position the following day. Despite the property damage, estimated at around 30,000 baht, the homeowner declined to demand compensation or deduct any amount from the nanny’s salary. “We understood that it was an accident and she felt genuinely sorry,” said the homeowner. “She offered to resign out of a sense of accountability. We accepted her resignation but never asked for money. These things can happen, and thankfully, no one was hurt.” The incident has since gone viral on social media, serving as a cautionary tale about the importance of familiarising oneself with new vehicles. Adapted by Asean Now from Khoasod 2025-05-18.

UPDATE Plantation Horror: Police Re-Enact Grisly Murder Scene in Trang as Families Demand Execution Picture courtesy of Khaosod. In a scene of high emotion and national outrage, Police escorted four suspects through a re-enactment of a grisly triple murder and body burning at a palm oil plantation in Trang province. The suspects, accused of shooting and then immolating their victims, were met with fury from grieving relatives, who demanded the death penalty, claiming the gang was responsible for eight murders in total. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360702-nationwide-manhunt-for-plantation-murder-gang-intensifies-as-police-close-in-on-suspects/#findComment-19807560

UPDATE Plantation Horror: Police Re-Enact Grisly Murder Scene in Trang as Families Demand Execution Picture courtesy of Khaosod. In a scene of high emotion and national outrage, Police escorted four suspects through a re-enactment of a grisly triple murder and body burning at a palm oil plantation in Trang province. The suspects, accused of shooting and then immolating their victims, were met with fury from grieving relatives, who demanded the death penalty, claiming the gang was responsible for eight murders in total. Leading the operation was Pol Lt Gen Piyawat Chaloemsri, Commissioner of Provincial Police Region 9, accompanied by senior local and regional officers. The re-enactment took place in Moo 1, Kalase subdistrict, Sikao district, at a 170-rai palm oil estate where the victims were brutally killed and burned. The victims included 69-year-old plantation manager Surachet “Ko Chet” and his two employees, Anan (49) and Weerayut (41). The suspects, led by 37-year-old Suppakorn “Bin Khuan Kun” Rakwivat, were shown pointing out where the killings occurred, closely guarded by special operations officers due to the presence of agitated family members. According to police, the incident began when Ko Chet drove into the plantation with his men sitting in the back of a pickup truck. A dispute broke out with Bin and his associates. As tensions escalated, Bin’s team allegedly opened fire on Ko Chet’s men, seriously wounding them, and forced Ko Chet to drive deeper into the plantation. There, the injured Anan was coerced into transferring 40,000 baht to the wife of one of the attackers, named Jack (Piyasaak, 33), before being shot along with the others. The three bodies were dumped in a canal and set ablaze using tyres and wooden planks. Shockingly, Ko Chet was reportedly still alive during the burning and attempted to crawl out of the fire, only to be shot twice more by Jack and pushed back into the flames. Bin, during the re-enactment, tearfully claimed the incident wasn’t premeditated and that the conflict began over a verbal dispute. He expressed remorse and apologised to the victims’ families, while Jack also performed a wai in apology. However, their remorse did little to ease public outrage. Pol Lt Gen Piyawat confirmed that overwhelming evidence, including confessions and detailed reconstructions, secured the case against the suspects. He also revealed that Bin and some gang members had long criminal histories, including multiple murder charges from 2010 and 2014. Police are reopening these cases to strengthen the current prosecution. A fourth body, found 300 metres from the main crime scene and reduced to decomposed remains, is also linked to Bin, who admitted to killing a mentally ill man named Supharuek after an alleged confrontation. Relatives of the victims expressed grief and fury, slamming the justice system for allowing Bin and his gang to roam free after prior convictions. “They tortured and executed our loved ones for money and control of land. They’ve murdered eight people. That’s not a man, it’s a monster,” one family member said. “We want nothing less than the death penalty.” The police pledged to pursue the harshest possible charges, including capital punishment, as the nation reels from one of the most chilling mass murders in recent memory. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-18.

Man Caught Smuggling 17.6kg of Heroin Hidden in Pet Food & Coffee Picture courtesy of The Standard. A Thai national has been arrested at the Nong Khai border checkpoint after attempting to smuggle more than 17.6 kilograms of heroin concealed within bags of pet food and coffee. The drugs, with an estimated street value of over 61 million baht, were intercepted during a joint operation by multiple law enforcement agencies. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360955-man-caught-smuggling-176kg-of-heroin-hidden-in-pet-food-coffee/

Picture courtesy of The Standard. A Thai national has been arrested at the Nong Khai border checkpoint after attempting to smuggle more than 17.6 kilograms of heroin concealed within bags of pet food and coffee. The drugs, with an estimated street value of over 61 million baht, were intercepted during a joint operation by multiple law enforcement agencies. The arrest took place around 18:30 on 16 May, when the suspect, identified only as Khunakon, entered Thailand from the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, carrying two large bags. Inside were various consumer goods, including coffee and pet food. Customs officers became suspicious of the packaging and subjected the bags to an x-ray scan. The scan revealed suspicious white powder hidden within five coffee bags and 13 bags of pet food, specifically cat and rabbit food. Field testing with ONCB051 reagent turned the samples purple, confirming the presence of a Category 1 narcotic, heroin. Preliminary questioning revealed that Khunakon had travelled to Vientiane, Lao PDR, to seek information regarding his younger brother, who had been arrested there on charges related to the possession of e-cigarettes. While in Vientiane, he was contacted via WhatsApp by a woman named Pinthip, also known as “Eye,” who told him someone would deliver luggage for him to carry across the border. At approximately 14:40 the same day, an unidentified Black male handed Khunakon the luggage and instructed him to deliver it to a domestic courier company in Songkhla province. The recipient’s information was to be provided after he had crossed into Thailand. Khunakon boarded a public bus back to Thailand and was apprehended while passing through customs. Khunakon was taken into custody along with the narcotics and transferred to the investigative team for formal prosecution under the strict narcotics laws. Adapted by Asean Now from The Standard 2025-05-18.

Former Monk’s Aide Confesses to Depositing Funds for Gambling Ring Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A former monk’s aide has confessed to depositing large sums of cash into a woman’s bank account on more than a hundred occasions, funds now suspected to be tied to an online gambling network. The case, unfolding rapidly in Bangkok, has shaken both religious and law enforcement circles as investigators widen their probe into illicit financial activities linked to the monastic community. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360954-former-monk’s-aide-confesses-to-depositing-funds-for-gambling-ring/

UPDATE Former Monk’s Aide Confesses to Depositing Funds for Gambling Ring

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A former monk’s aide has confessed to depositing large sums of cash into a woman’s bank account on more than a hundred occasions, funds now suspected to be tied to an online gambling network. The case, unfolding rapidly in Bangkok, has shaken both religious and law enforcement circles as investigators widen their probe into illicit financial activities linked to the monastic community. On the evening of 16 May, officers from the Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau (CCIB), led by Pol. Lt. Gen. Trirong Phiwphan, apprehended Mr Ekaphot Phukhang, 25, formerly known as Phra Maha Ekaphot Phukhang. Once a close confidant to the influential monk Phra Dhammawachiranuwat (Yaem Kittintharo), the former abbot of Wat Rai Khing temple, Mr Ekaphot was detained under an arrest warrant issued by the Criminal Court. He was taken into custody at the Government Complex in Chaeng Watthana and is now facing multiple charges under The Gambling Act and Anti-Money Laundering laws. These include promoting illegal online gambling, soliciting participation via electronic platforms, conspiracy to commit money laundering, and direct involvement in laundering illicit funds. During interrogation, Mr Ekaphot admitted to depositing cash, ranging from tens of thousands to several hundred thousand baht, into the account of Ms Aranyawan Wangtaphan. These transactions, made through various cash deposit machines, are believed to have been on the instruction of former Abbot Yaem. Mr Ekaphot claims he was unaware of the funds’ connection to the online gambling platform “LAGALAXY911.” He has now been transferred to Thung Song Hong Police Station, with investigators seeking court approval to remand him in custody. No Bail for Key Suspects In a related development, the Central Criminal Court for Corruption and Misconduct Cases on 17 May authorised the first round of detention for two primary suspects in the case, Mr Yaem Inkrungkao (formerly Phra Dhammawachiranuwat) and Ms Aranyawan Wangtaphan. They are charged with embezzling state assets and abusing their official positions for personal gain. The court granted a 12-day detention order while rejecting bail requests for both defendants. Investigators strongly opposed bail due to the high financial damage involved and the risk of evidence tampering. Notably, Mr Yaem did not apply for bail, and he has been transferred to Bangkok Remand Prison. Meanwhile, Ms Aranyawan’s request for temporary release was denied. The court cited the seriousness of the charges, the digital nature of the evidence, and her involvement in another criminal case already under the jurisdiction of the Ratchada Criminal Court. Authorities fear that if released, she could interfere with witnesses or abscond. Ms Aranyawan has now been remanded to the Central Women’s Correctional Institution. The case forms part of a broader investigation into illegal online gambling networks, some of which allegedly have links to influential monastic figures. Authorities expect further arrests as the CCIB continues to examine suspicious financial flows and potential collusion involving religious and laypersons alike. The scandal has prompted renewed calls for greater financial transparency and regulatory oversight within monastic institutions. Related articles: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360815-high-profile-temple-embezzlement-case online-gambling-broker-arrested-in-pattaya/ https://aseannow.com/topic/1360791-nakhon-pathom-temple-abbot-in-hot-water-300-million-baht-embezzlement-shock/ Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-18.

Chiang Mai: MOU Signed to Boost Aerial Response to Wildfires, Disasters & Health Emergencies Picture courtesy of Matichon. The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MNRE) has signed a landmark memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Chiang Mai authorities, to enhance aerial operations in tackling wildfires, natural disasters and emergencies in Chiang Mai province a region severely affected by annual haze and environmental crises. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360953-chiang-mai mou-signed-to-boost-aerial-response-to-wildfires-disasters-health-emergencies/

Picture courtesy of Matichon. The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MNRE) has signed a landmark memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Chiang Mai authorities, to enhance aerial operations in tackling wildfires, natural disasters and emergencies in Chiang Mai province a region severely affected by annual haze and environmental crises. The agreement was signed on 16 May at the Chiang Mai Railway Park by Mr. Jatuporn Buruspat, Permanent Secretary of the MNRE, alongside Mr. Pichai Lertpongadisorn, President of the Chiang Mai Provincial Administrative Organisation; Dr. Waranyu Chamnongprasatporn, Chiang Mai Provincial Public Health Officer and representatives from the Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University. Speaking at the event, Mr. Jatuporn emphasised Chiang Mai’s vulnerability to severe forest fires and air pollution, particularly in mountainous districts such as Mae Chaem, Omkoi, Chiang Dao and Samoeng. These areas face recurring health and environmental threats due to seasonal wildfires and smog. They are also prone to landslides, flash floods, and other emergencies that are difficult to access by road. “To address these challenges, aerial capabilities are essential,” Mr. Jatuporn said. “Aircraft can be used for patrol missions, hotspot detection, emergency response, fire suppression and rapid assistance to residents in remote areas. This includes the evacuation of patients, delivery of relief supplies, and provision of urgent medical and public services.” The MOU aims to improve inter-agency coordination and operational efficiency in combating forest fires and reducing the impact of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) in the province. It also seeks to bolster access to healthcare, rescue services and disaster response in isolated communities, ensuring greater equity in emergency and public health services across Chiang Mai. “This agreement represents a critical step toward improving the quality of life for Chiang Mai’s residents, not only during crises but also under normal circumstances,” Mr. Jatuporn concluded. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-05-18.

Stricter Controls on Paper Waste Imports Amid Surge in Smuggling Picture courtesy of Thai Enquirer. The Pollution Control Department (PCD) has announced the implementation of more stringent regulations on the import of paper waste, in response to a rise in smuggled shipments containing prohibited and hazardous materials. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360952-stricter-controls-on-paper-waste-imports-amid-surge-in-smuggling/

Picture courtesy of Thai Enquirer. The Pollution Control Department (PCD) has announced the implementation of more stringent regulations on the import of paper waste, in response to a rise in smuggled shipments containing prohibited and hazardous materials. The move follows widespread violations involving shipping containers falsely declared as recyclable paper, but later discovered to be filled with a variety of banned waste materials including plastics, rubber, textiles, glass, metals, food scraps, broken furniture, and even medical waste. Such contaminated shipments are classified as municipal waste, which has been explicitly banned from import under the Ministry of Commerce’s 2019 regulations. While the domestic paper production primarily caters to local consumption and export packaging needs, the country faces an ongoing shortage of raw materials for its recycling sector. In particular, the absence of long-fibre pulp, commonly sourced from pine wood in foreign markets, has made the import of used paper and cardboard essential. However, the influx of contaminated imports has raised serious environmental concerns. In 2024 alone, the PCD, in collaboration with the Customs Department and the Department of Industrial Works, intercepted numerous shipments that violated existing waste import laws. In response, the PCD has established a special task force comprising representatives from key government agencies and the recycling industry. The group’s mandate is to enforce clearer standards for allowable levels of contamination in imported paper waste. The newly announced “Criteria for Contaminant Levels in Imported Paper Waste” prohibit the presence of hazardous chemicals, radioactive substances, infectious materials, and toxic community waste entirely. Acceptable contamination levels have also been sharply restricted , with plastic, metal, glass, synthetic materials, wood, and soil limited to no more than 2% in sorted paper waste and 3% in mixed paper waste. These benchmarks are in line with the European Union’s environmental standards. A PCD spokesperson stated that the revised rules aim to support the country’s circular economy goals while ensuring better protection for the environment and public health. The department emphasised that importers found breaching the new regulations could face severe penalties. Authorities say the crackdown marks a turning point in tackling the illegal trade of waste materials and safeguarding the integrity of the country’s recycling sector. Adapted by Asean Now from The Enquirer 2025-05-18.

Motorcyclist Fires Celebratory Shots, Skids Off Bend & Dies at Irrigation Canal Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A 38‑year‑old man has died after losing control of a Yamaha motorbike moments after discharging a revolver into the night sky, police in Chachoengsao confirmed. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360951-motorcyclist-fires-celebratory-shots-skids-off-bend-dies-at-irrigation-canal/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A 38‑year‑old man has died after losing control of a Yamaha motorbike moments after discharging a revolver into the night sky, police in Chachoengsao confirmed. Officers and rescue volunteers were called at first light on 17 May, to a sharp bend on the irrigation‑canal road in Sao Cha­nog sub‑district, where they discovered the body of Mr Som­sak, face‑down on the verge. His machine, a black‑and‑red Yamaha bearing registration from Chachoengsao, lay submerged in the adjacent canal and was hauled out by rescuers. A loaded .38‑calibre revolver was recovered from the dead man’s waistband. Investigators also found two pairs of rubber sandals: one in the water beside the bike and another on the carriageway, prompting suspicion that a passenger might have fled or been flung clear. Neighbours told police they had heard two gunshots shortly after midnight, followed by the sound of a crash, but assumed it was a drink‑related spill and did not venture out in the dark. Tracing the motorbike’s registration led detectives to Mr Wira­wat, the vehicle’s owner, who was found at his home nursing facial wounds and heavy bleeding. Questioned while still dazed, Mr Wira­wat admitted he had been riding with Mr Som­sak after an evening of drinking on Suwin­thawong Road. He told police that Mr Som­sak, produced the revolver and “fired two rounds into the air for fun” as they approached the canal. Moments later the bike failed to negotiate the bend and crashed. Mr Wira­wat said he “cannot remember what happened next” but managed to stagger home without checking on his friend. Investigators will interview Mr Wira­wat again once his condition stabilises. An autopsy has been ordered on the deceased. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-18.

Fugitive Drug-Dealing Couple Arrested After Six Years on the Run Picture courtesy of CIB. Officers from The Central Investigation Bureau (CIB), under the Crime Suppression Division (CSD), have arrested a couple who had been evading arrest for over six years. The pair, Ms. Patcharee (alias Ploy) and Mr. Phattharaphon, were detained in a community area of Prachathipat Subdistrict, Thanyaburi District, Pathum Thani Province. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360950-fugitive-drug-dealing-couple-arrested-after-six-years-on-the-run/

Picture courtesy of CIB. Officers from The Central Investigation Bureau (CIB), under the Crime Suppression Division (CSD), have arrested a couple who had been evading arrest for over six years. The pair, Ms. Patcharee (alias Ploy) and Mr. Phattharaphon, were detained in a community area of Prachathipat Subdistrict, Thanyaburi District, Pathum Thani Province. Ms. Patcharee was wanted on charges of possession of a Category 1 narcotic (methamphetamine), stemming from her 2016 arrest. She had failed to appear in court for proceedings under the jurisdiction of the Pathum Thani Juvenile and Family Court, leading to the issuance of an arrest warrant. Mr. Phattharaphon, meanwhile, was charged with illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition. He had a record of two prior arrests in drug-related cases and was most recently apprehended in 2024 with a firearm. He too had fled while awaiting court proceedings at Thanyaburi Provincial Court, prompting a further arrest warrant. Authorities discovered that the couple had been living together while on the run. Acting on intelligence, officers moved in and successfully apprehended both suspects without incident. They have since been handed over to the relevant courts for prosecution, Ms. Patcharee to the Pathum Thani Juvenile and Family Court and Mr. Phattharaphon to the Thanyaburi Provincial Court. Both suspects confessed to the charges during preliminary interrogation. The operation was conducted under the direction of Pol. Lt. Gen. Jiraphop Phuridej, Commissioner of the CIB, with orders passed down through Pol. Maj. Gen. Wittaya Sriprasertphap, Commander of the CSD, and Acting Pol. Col. Netiwit Thanasitnitikul, Superintendent of Subdivision 2. The arrests mark another success in the CIB’s ongoing efforts to bring long-term fugitives to justice and combat illegal narcotics and firearms possession in the country. Adapted by Asean Now from CIB 2025-05-18.

Satellite Images Reveal Rare Earth Mining Near Border, Raising Toxic Contamination Fears Picture courtesy of Matichon. Human rights groups have raised alarms over two newly identified rare earth mining operations just kilometres from Thailand’s northern border, amid growing concern about potential toxic runoff into the Kok River, which flows through Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai provinces. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360949-satellite-images-reveal-rare-earth-mining-near-border-raising-toxic-contamination-fears/

Picture courtesy of Matichon. Human rights groups have raised alarms over two newly identified rare earth mining operations just kilometres from Thailand’s northern border, amid growing concern about potential toxic runoff into the Kok River, which flows through Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai provinces. According to the Tai Yai Human Rights Foundation, recent satellite imagery reveals two rare earth mining sites operating in the Wa-controlled Special Region 2 of Myanmar, located near the towns of Mong Sat and Yawnghwe (Yong Kha). The mines are situated dangerously close to the Kok River, one just 2.6 kilometres away on the west bank and another 3.6 kilometres away on the east, heightening fears that toxic chemicals used in the extraction process could leak into the water system shared by both countries. The foundation released the satellite images following ongoing reports that levels of arsenic in the Kok and Sai rivers had exceeded safety standards. This contamination has been linked to gold mining activity in the region and has been blamed for widespread flooding in late 2024, the worst in recent memory. Now, attention has shifted to the rare earth mining operations, which are reportedly extracting valuable minerals such as terbium (Tb) and dysprosium (Dy), used in high-tech electronics and military equipment. These minerals are extracted using a highly polluting process known as in-situ leaching, in which chemical solvents are poured through pipes into the hillsides to dissolve the minerals underground. The resulting solution is then pumped into a series of circular evaporation ponds, visible in the satellite photos. This extraction method is notoriously destructive, having previously caused extensive environmental damage in Myanmar’s Kachin State, where Chinese companies are known to operate large-scale rare earth mining ventures. Reports from Kachin document landslides, poisoned groundwater, dying wildlife, and contaminated crops, outcomes that experts now fear could occur along the border as well. The rare earth sites near Mong Sat are believed to have been operational since mid-2023, while mining on the west bank of the Kok River began in mid-2024. These operations went largely unnoticed until investigative scrutiny over gold mining in the Shan State led to deeper satellite analysis, which identified the distinct mining layouts typically associated with rare earth extraction. The foundation warns that without immediate action, the river systems from Mae Ai District in Chiang Mai to Chiang Saen in Chiang Rai, where the Kok flows into the Mekong, could be at risk of contamination, endangering communities on both sides of the border. Environmental groups and civil society organisations are now calling on Thai and Myanmar authorities to urgently investigate and disclose the full scope of mining activity in the area. They are also demanding transparent environmental impact assessments and cross-border cooperation to monitor water quality and protect public health. The government has yet to issue an official statement in response to the latest revelations. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-05-18.

Global Resort Giant Wynn Eyes Investment in Thailand’s Entertainment Complex Sector Picture courtesy of Matichon A top executive from one of the world’s leading resort and entertainment companies has expressed keen interest in investing in Thailand’s emerging entertainment complex sector, highlighting the kingdom’s potential as a global destination for leisure and tourism. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360948-global-resort-giant-wynn-eyes-investment-in-thailand’s-entertainment-complex-sector/

Picture courtesy of Matichon A top executive from one of the world’s leading resort and entertainment companies has expressed keen interest in investing in Thailand’s emerging entertainment complex sector, highlighting the kingdom’s potential as a global destination for leisure and tourism. On 16 May, Chris Gordon, President of Wynn Development, the development arm of US-based Wynn Resorts, met with Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat at the Ministry of Finance in Bangkok. The meeting centred on Wynn’s interest in participating in the proposed Thailand Entertainment Complex (TEC), a government-backed initiative aimed at developing integrated resorts in the country. Mr Gordon praised Thailand’s tourism appeal, citing its natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture and said the country is well-positioned to attract large-scale investment and become a leading hub for global entertainment and recreation. Wynn, which operates high-profile integrated resorts in Las Vegas and across Asia, is known for its strict regulatory compliance, especially concerning anti-money laundering and gambling addiction measures. Gordon shared details of Wynn’s global risk mitigation strategies and highlighted how cutting-edge technology has been used to enforce responsible gaming and financial transparency. He also noted that several other international operators, including those involved in concerts, shows, and sporting events, have shown interest in engaging with the government to explore future collaborations. Deputy Minister Julapun welcomed Wynn’s interest, stating that the government is committed to carefully advancing the TEC initiative in a way that balances economic opportunity with social responsibility. “We are pleased that a world-class company like Wynn Resorts sees the potential of investing in Thailand,” Julapun said. “This reflects growing confidence in Thailand not only as a tourist destination but as a viable regional investment hub. The government will proceed prudently to ensure economic benefits such as job creation are matched by strong social safeguards for all Thai citizens.” The Parliament is currently preparing to review draft legislation that would regulate the establishment and operation of integrated entertainment complexes. The bill includes stringent anti-money laundering provisions and social protections, particularly concerning problem gambling. According to government sources, high-profile international firms such as Galaxy Entertainment, Melco, MGM Resorts, and Genting Group have also scheduled meetings with Deputy Minister Julapun on 19 May to discuss potential investments and provide input into the development of the TEC framework. The TEC initiative is seen as a potential game-changer in Thailand’s economic strategy, aiming to diversify tourism offerings and attract high-value visitors while maintaining a strong commitment to responsible development. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-05-18.

Pattaya Looking to Launch Thailand’s First Pneumatic Monorail in Smart City Transformation Pictures courtesy of Pattaya City In a bold stride towards modern urban mobility and environmental responsibility, Pattaya is exploring the introduction of a pneumatic powered monorail system, potentially becoming the first city in Thailand to implement such a futuristic transport solution. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360947-pattaya-looking-to-launch-thailand’s-first pneumatic monorail-in-smart-city-transformation/

Pictures courtesy of Pattaya City In a bold stride towards modern urban mobility and environmental responsibility, Pattaya is exploring the introduction of a pneumatic powered monorail system, potentially becoming the first city in Thailand to implement such a futuristic transport solution. The innovative proposal, championed by Pattaya Mayor Poramet Ngampichet, centres around the AEROMOVEL system, a state-of-the-art monorail driven by air-powered pneumatic propulsion. This technology, already operational in several cities in South America, is renowned for its low energy consumption, minimal environmental impact, and cost-effective infrastructure requirements. Mayor Poramet recently presided over a high-level strategic meeting with international developers, transport consultants and city officials to review the feasibility of adopting the AEROMOVEL model. The discussions focused on technical specifications, urban integration, projected benefits and long-term sustainability. The mayor expressed strong support for the initiative, noting its alignment with Pattaya’s broader smart city vision. Unlike traditional rail systems that rely on complex mechanical engines, the AEROMOVEL utilises compressed air to propel carriages along an elevated track. This significantly reduces the carbon footprint of public transport and lowers maintenance and construction costs. The system is also known for its quiet operation and safety, making it an attractive choice for densely populated urban environments like Pattaya. Significantly, the proposed project would be fully financed by private investors, who have pledged their support pending final approval from local authorities. This arrangement means no additional financial burden would fall on taxpayers, a point welcomed by city officials and residents alike. Should the green light be given, the monorail would serve as a transformative solution to Pattaya’s persistent traffic congestion and growing air pollution challenges. It would also mark a pioneering moment in Thailand’s urban development, positioning Pattaya as a national leader in next-generation, eco-conscious transport infrastructure. “This project has the potential to revolutionise how people move around Pattaya,” Mayor Poramet said. “It’s not just about transportation, it’s about creating a city that is smart, sustainable, and ready for the future.” The monorail initiative is one of several urban upgrades planned under Pattaya’s smart city roadmap, which also includes digitised public services, renewable energy expansion, and advanced waste management systems. If successful, Pattaya’s air-powered monorail could pave the way for similar transport solutions in other Thai cities, ushering in a new era of clean, efficient, and forward-thinking urban mobility across the nation. Adapted by Asean Now from Pattaya City 2025-05-18.

Furniture Company Praised for Social Responsibility After Warehouse Fire Picture courtesy of Matichon. A furniture manufacturer has been widely praised for its swift and compassionate response to residents affected by a devastating warehouse fire in Bangkok’s Lat Krabang district. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360946-furniture-company-praised-for-social-responsibility-after-warehouse-fire/

Picture courtesy of Matichon. A furniture manufacturer has been widely praised for its swift and compassionate response to residents affected by a devastating warehouse fire in Bangkok’s Lat Krabang district. The blaze, which broke out on 11 May at around 16:00, engulfed over eight rai of warehouse space belonging to King Kitchen, a brand operated by Siam House and Home Co., Ltd. More than 100 fire engines were deployed to control the flames, which generated thick smoke and raised concerns about chemical exposure and air quality in surrounding neighbourhoods. Following the incident, King Kitchen issued a heartfelt statement on its official Facebook page, expressing deep regret for the impact on local communities and promising immediate action to restore normalcy. True to its word, the company dispatched teams to deliver aid and assess the needs of affected residents. Efforts included the distribution of medical kits and face masks, as well as providing health check-ups to locals. Additionally, cleaning supplies, such as mops, detergents, gloves, and buckets, were handed out to help households nearby cope with the aftermath. King Kitchen also coordinated with local leaders and schools to ensure comprehensive recovery efforts. This included hiring professional cleaning services for Lamphaong School, where air conditioning systems, kitchens, dormitories, and playgrounds were cleaned thoroughly. Homes of 14 nearby families also received similar cleaning assistance, with services extending to the cleaning of air conditioners, fans, and even pets. Social media users have been quick to commend the company’s sense of corporate responsibility. Comments on the consumer-focused Facebook page “ผู้บริโภค” (The Consumers) lauded the brand for its humanity and responsiveness. One user wrote, “They’ve won the hearts of animal lovers. I truly admire their empathy towards both people and pets.” Another added, “They should receive a national award for social responsibility. I deeply respect the leadership and staff behind these efforts.” The public sentiment has been overwhelmingly positive, with many pledging to continue supporting the King Kitchen brand. As investigations continue into the cause of the fire, the company’s proactive and compassionate response has become a case study in corporate citizenship, serving as a model for others facing similar crises. Related article: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360411-blaze-rages-all-night-at-bangkok-furniture-factory/ Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-05-18.