https://aseannow.com/rss/42-world-news1.xml/World news reports from around the worldenhttps://aseannow.com/thailand-news/thai-police-probe-scam-hospital-in-cambodia-r2080/Thai police are investigating whether a hospital-like facility discovered inside a scam compound in O’Smach, on the Cambodia border, is linked to human trafficking or organ trading, according to Deputy National Police Chief Pol Gen Thatchai Pitaneelaboot. Authorities are also targeting domestic transport networks accused of moving trafficking victims through Thailand to neighbouring countries. Get today's headlines by email Speaking at the Royal Thai Police headquarters on 29 May 2026, Pol Gen Thatchai, who also heads the Anti-Human Trafficking Centre, said foreign nationals continue to be deceived into travelling through Thailand before being sent to work in call-centre scam operations in Myanmar, Cambodia and Laos. Over the past two weeks, Thai authorities have rescued five Chinese nationals from Myanmar. The remarks came after Pol Gen Thatchai opened the “Youth Against Scam” project, organised with the United States Embassy and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). The initiative aims to build awareness among young people about cybercrime and human trafficking while creating a regional anti-cybercrime youth network. Police said the problem extends beyond Asia, with victims from South America and Africa also being lured into scam compounds operating in neighbouring countries. Thai authorities believe the issue is significantly affecting Thailand because the country is often used as a transit route due to its transport infrastructure and travel connections. According to Pol Gen Thatchai, the Royal Thai Police are working with the Technology Crime Suppression Division to intensify efforts against scam gangs, following orders from Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and National Police Chief Pol Gen Kittirat Phanphet. The anti-scam youth programme attracted more than 1,400 applicants before organisers selected 52 participants from countries including Thailand, Laos, Myanmar, the Philippines, South Korea and Japan. Pol Gen Thatchai said the group would act as youth ambassadors, sharing information about cybercrime and producing content to warn people in their own countries about recruitment scams linked to call-centre gangs. Asked about scam activity in Cambodia, Pol Gen Thatchai said cybercrime statistics had shown signs of declining but cautioned it was too early to determine whether this resulted from Cambodian enforcement operations. He added that many Thais recently repatriated from Cambodia were linked to online gambling businesses rather than call-centre scams. Authorities are now examining reports of a large medical facility inside a scam compound in O’Smach. Pol Gen Thatchai said investigators found surgical equipment, X-ray machines and maternity equipment inside the building, which he described as unusual for a scam operation. Police are investigating whether the site was connected to organ trading or other criminal activities. Thai authorities are increasing screening procedures, although Pol Gen Thatchai stressed that dismantling transport networks within Thailand remained the priority. He said trafficked individuals were often collected directly from airports and taken to border areas by organised transport groups, which are now being targeted for prosecution. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Thaitabloid 30 May 2026Fri, 29 May 2026 21:22:08 +0000https://aseannow.com/worldnews/uk-to-trial-ai-age-checks-for-asylum-seekers-r1081/The UK government will begin using artificial intelligence to help estimate the age of asylum seekers from next year, as part of efforts to identify adults who falsely claim to be children when arriving in the country. Get today's headlines by email The Home Office has awarded a contract to develop and test facial age-estimation software that analyses photographs taken at the border. Officials say the technology could help detect adults attempting to access support and legal protections reserved for children. However, human rights groups and social work professionals have raised concerns about the reliability of the technology, warning that mistakes could leave vulnerable young people without the protections they are entitled to receive. New tool aimed at disputed age claimsUnaccompanied children seeking asylum in the UK are placed in local authority care rather than standard asylum accommodation and receive additional legal safeguards. The government argues that some adults have sought to exploit these arrangements by claiming to be minors. According to Home Office figures, more than 6,400 people who said they were children underwent age assessments in the year ending March 2026. Of those cases, 43% were ultimately assessed as adults. Minister for Border Security and Asylum, Alex Norris, said false age claims had diverted resources away from children who genuinely needed support. He said the new technology would help authorities identify people attempting to misuse the system while ensuring those entitled to protection received it. Testing and rollout plansThe Home Office first announced plans to explore AI-based facial age estimation last year. Since then, officials have conducted testing using images from people of different ethnicities and genders, including groups represented within the asylum-seeking population. Although the technology has been tested, the results have not yet been used to make operational decisions. Under the newly awarded contract, Harlow-based IT supplier Akhter Computers Ltd will continue development and testing of the system before a wider rollout planned for mid-2027. The contract is valued at £322,000 over three years. The first live trial is expected to take place next year at the Western Jet Foil processing centre in Dover. Officials say the software will not replace existing procedures. Border Force officers currently assess age by reviewing documents and considering an individual's appearance and behaviour. The AI system will be used only as an additional tool when doubts remain about a person's age. Concerns over accuracyQuestions about age assessment have persisted for years. A report by the government's independent immigration inspector found examples of adults being treated as children as well as children being wrongly classified as adults. The report concluded that, without a completely reliable method of determining age, errors were unavoidable and could have serious consequences, particularly when children are denied rights and protections. Social workers continue to carry out detailed assessments when an asylum seeker's age is challenged. The British Association of Social Workers warned that introducing AI into the process could increase safeguarding risks. Professor Sam Baron, the organisation's interim chief executive, said age assessment was a complex task best handled by trained professionals rather than through technological shortcuts. Human rights groups oppose schemeHuman Rights Watch has called on the government to abandon the project altogether. Anna Bacciarelli, a senior AI researcher at the organisation, described the technology as unproven and questioned whether facial age estimation can accurately determine a person's age in asylum cases. She argued that using the technology on vulnerable refugee children could undermine their rights and expose them to a process that lacks sufficient evidence of effectiveness. The government has previously said facial age estimation represented the most cost-effective option available for supporting age assessments. Critics, however, maintain that significant concerns remain over both its accuracy and its ethical implications. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 30 May 2026Fri, 29 May 2026 21:19:11 +0000https://aseannow.com/worldnews/john-bolton-calls-iran-deal-a-us-setback-r1080/Former national security adviser John Bolton has criticised a proposed agreement between Washington and Tehran, describing it as a major setback for the United States and arguing that domestic political concerns are shaping the Trump administration’s approach. Get today's headlines by email Speaking on NewsNation’s Elizabeth Vargas Reports on Thursday, Bolton said the administration was pursuing the arrangement because of worries about fuel prices and their potential impact on upcoming midterm elections rather than broader strategic considerations. “It’s a big defeat for the United States,” Bolton said, adding that he believed concerns about gasoline prices were the primary factor driving the negotiations. Proposed ceasefire extensionThe tentative agreement, first reported by Axios, would take the form of a 60-day memorandum of understanding aimed at extending a fragile ceasefire and reopening the Strait of Hormuz. The arrangement is designed to ease economic pressure on both the United States and Iran. Under the proposal, Iran would agree not to charge tolls to commercial vessels using the waterway and would remove mines from the strait. The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most important shipping routes, carrying more than one-fifth of global oil and gas supplies. In return, the United States would lift its naval blockade and provide certain sanctions waivers that would allow Iran to sell oil more freely. Washington would also agree to begin discussions on wider sanctions relief. Nuclear commitments under discussionThe memorandum would include a pledge by Iran not to pursue nuclear weapons. However, Tehran has made similar assertions in the past, and those claims have been questioned by non-proliferation specialists. According to the Axios report, early negotiations would focus on the future of Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium and on how any future uranium enrichment activities would be handled. The proposed framework would leave several major issues to be negotiated during the 60-day period. Concerns over Iran’s intentionsBolton argued that Iran could use the agreement to strengthen its position while talks continue. He said Tehran may seek to benefit from sanctions relief and renewed oil sales while delaying decisions on the most difficult issues. According to Bolton, such a process could allow Iran to rebuild financial resources and military capabilities while reducing the economic pressure facing the government. Bolton also suggested that Iranian leaders may believe US willingness to use force in the region could weaken as the midterm elections approach. “They think we’ve got a short attention span, we’re obsessed by the elections,” he said. Election-year criticismDuring the interview, host Elizabeth Vargas noted that President Donald Trump had recently said he was not focused on the midterm elections. Bolton rejected that claim, arguing that electoral considerations were central to the administration’s calculations. He said reopening the Strait of Hormuz could increase energy supplies, potentially lowering global oil prices, reducing fuel costs for American consumers and easing inflationary pressures. According to Bolton, the administration views those economic effects as beneficial to its political prospects ahead of November’s elections. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 30 May 2026Fri, 29 May 2026 21:13:15 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/doctor-among-two-killed-in-cha-am-bypass-crash-r2079/Two people were killed and a 53-year-old woman seriously injured after a saloon car crashed into a central reservation barrier on the Cha-am-Pran Buri bypass road in Phetchaburi province on Friday morning. The metal barrier pierced through the vehicle from the front windscreen to the rear, leaving the car severely damaged. Get today's headlines by email Police from Cha-am Police Station were alerted to the crash at around 08.00 on 29 May 2026. Emergency responders from Sawang Sanphet Rescue Foundation, Cha-am Highway Rescue and Cha-am Hospital rushed to the scene on the inbound carriageway towards Bangkok near kilometre marker 18+100 in Sam Phraya subdistrict, Cha-am district. The crash occurred shortly before the U-turn point near Chang Thaeng Kradat intersection. Officers found a white Bangkok-registered saloon car lodged into the steel median barrier, which had penetrated the length of the vehicle. Two occupants were pronounced dead at the scene. One was a man who had been driving the car. Inside the vehicle, officers found a Ministry of Public Health doctor’s coat bearing the name Dr Phaithaya Suebsing, who is believed to have been the deceased driver. A second victim, a woman seated in the front passenger seat, also died at the scene. Her identity has not yet been confirmed. Rescue workers also found an injured woman trapped in the rear seat. She was identified as La-orntip Phranphanas, aged 53. Emergency crews used extraction rescue equipment to free her from the wreckage before transferring her to Cha-am Hospital with serious injuries. Pictures courtesy of ThaiRath Police investigators are continuing to examine the cause of the crash and will gather further evidence from the scene. The bodies of the deceased will undergo formal identification procedures as part of the ongoing investigation. ThaiRath reported that the crash caused disruption on the bypass road while emergency services cleared the wreckage and secured the area. Authorities have not yet released further details on the circumstances leading up to the collision. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now ThaiRath 30 May 2026Fri, 29 May 2026 21:13:11 +0000https://aseannow.com/worldnews/us-judge-orders-trump-name-removed-from-kennedy-center-r1079/A federal judge has ordered the removal of Donald Trump’s name from the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, ruling that the Washington DC institution cannot be formally renamed without approval from Congress. Get today's headlines by email US District Judge Christopher Cooper directed the Trump administration to remove all signage bearing Trump’s name and delete references to a “Trump Kennedy Center” from official materials within 14 days. Court Says Congress Controls the NameIn his ruling, Cooper said federal law clearly establishes the venue as a memorial to former President John F. Kennedy and leaves no authority for the center’s board to change its name on its own. “The Kennedy Center’s organic statute makes crystal clear that the Center is to be named for President Kennedy,” Cooper wrote. He added that Congress originally gave the institution its name and only Congress has the power to alter it. The judge concluded that the board had exceeded its legal authority by approving the renaming. The decision came in a lawsuit filed by Joyce Beatty, a Democratic congresswoman from Ohio who serves on the Kennedy Center’s board through her position in Congress. The White House did not immediately comment on the ruling. Renaming Followed Trump TakeoverThe dispute stemmed from changes made after Trump returned to office. In February last year, he appointed himself chairman of the Kennedy Center’s board of trustees, describing the move as a “take-over”. He subsequently removed existing board members and installed new appointees. In December, the restructured board voted to add Trump’s name to the institution, a move seen as part of a broader effort by the administration to reshape cultural organisations in the US capital. At the time, Joe Kennedy III, a former Massachusetts congressman and great-nephew of President Kennedy, questioned whether such a change was legally possible. He argued that the venue was established by federal law as a memorial to Kennedy and could not simply be renamed by board action. Backlash From Arts CommunityThe renaming effort prompted significant opposition within the arts sector. Several performers and organisations cancelled appearances at the venue in protest, including a scheduled run of the award-winning musical Hamilton. Leadership changes also followed. National Symphony Orchestra executive director Jean Davidson left to lead the Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts in Los Angeles. Richard Grenell, a Trump ally who played a prominent role in efforts to reshape the institution and challenge what he described as “woke” culture, later stepped down as president of the center. The Kennedy Center remains one of the United States’ most prominent cultural institutions and receives federal funding. It has traditionally enjoyed support from both major political parties. Wider Plans Face ChallengesUnder Trump, the venue increasingly became a platform for administration initiatives. It hosted events including an appearance by FIFA president Gianni Infantino ahead of the World Cup draw and other White House-linked functions. The center is also preparing for a two-year closure after trustees approved a major renovation programme. Officials said the project would begin following Independence Day celebrations in July, with a reopening planned once work is completed. The Kennedy Center case is one of several legal disputes involving Trump’s plans for Washington. Other proposals, including a large ballroom at the White House site and a “Victory Arch” near national monuments, have also faced court challenges. Congressional Republicans have additionally proposed renaming the Kennedy Center’s Opera House after First Lady Melania Trump. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 30 May 2026Fri, 29 May 2026 21:05:47 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/thai-woman-arrested-over-sweden-job-scam-in-udon-r2078/A 56-year-old woman has been arrested in Udon Thani after allegedly deceiving more than 20 Thai workers with false promises of fruit-picking jobs in Sweden. Police said the suspect collected nearly 500,000 baht in deposits before disappearing for several years. Get today's headlines by email The arrest took place on 28 May after officers from the Highway Police Division tracked down the suspect, identified only as Suphanan, at a hut in Dong Sa Phang village, Kut Sa subdistrict, Mueang district, Udon Thani. She was wanted under an arrest warrant issued by Bueng Kan Provincial Court on 9 February 2022 for allegedly conspiring to fraudulently recruit workers for overseas employment and public fraud. According to investigators, the case dates back to 2022 when a group of victims, most of them from Si Wilai district in Bueng Kan province, were approached with offers of high-paying fruit-picking work in Sweden. The suspect allegedly charged each victim over 25,000 baht in brokerage and deposit fees in exchange for arranging travel and employment overseas. Police said the victims lost contact with the suspect shortly before the scheduled departure dates. More than 20 people were reportedly affected, with total damages estimated at over 500,000 baht. The victims later filed complaints with Si Wilai Police Station, leading authorities to seek an arrest warrant. Investigators believe the suspect had carried out similar schemes on multiple occasions. Police also said she deliberately moved house several times after learning that a warrant had been issued for her arrest. Following the warrant, the suspect allegedly fled to southern Thailand to avoid capture. Officers later received information that she had returned to Udon Thani, leading to her arrest. During questioning, Suphanan reportedly confessed to the charges. She was subsequently transferred to Bueng Kan Provincial Court for further legal proceedings. Thaitabloid reported that authorities have not disclosed whether additional suspects may be involved or whether more victims could come forward as the investigation continues. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Thaitabloid 30 May 2026Fri, 29 May 2026 21:03:16 +0000https://aseannow.com/worldnews/labour-reports-farage-russia-hack-claim-to-police-r1078/Labour has formally reported claims that Nigel Farage was targeted by Russian hackers to the Metropolitan Police and the UK's cyber security authorities, escalating a dispute over allegations first raised by Reform UK. Get today's headlines by email The move follows reports that Farage believed his phone, email and bank accounts may have been compromised by individuals linked to Russia. According to accounts published in the Mail on Sunday, Reform sources said concerns arose after details emerged of a £5 million gift made to Farage by businessman Christopher Harborne. Labour chair Anna Turley has written to both the Metropolitan Police and the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), asking whether they are investigating the alleged cyber intrusion. She said the matter could have implications for national security, political integrity and public confidence in democratic institutions. Reform Says Authorities Have Been ContactedReform UK said it had informed the appropriate authorities about the alleged incident, although it is not believed to have made a report to the Metropolitan Police. The party declined to comment further, saying it would be inappropriate to do so while inquiries were ongoing. According to Reform sources, Farage became concerned that information had been accessed by foreign actors after reports surfaced about the financial gift. They claimed that only four people were aware of the payment and that Farage subsequently arranged for his mobile phone to undergo forensic examination by counter-espionage specialists. Those specialists allegedly concluded that hostile actors, believed to be linked to Moscow, had used spear-phishing techniques to gain access to Farage's devices and accounts. Spear phishing involves sending targeted messages designed to trick recipients into revealing information or installing malicious software. Farage told the newspaper that the alleged actions demonstrated the security threat posed by Russia. Labour Calls for Evidence to Be SharedBoth Labour and the Conservatives have urged Reform UK to provide any evidence it possesses to the relevant security agencies. In a letter sent to Farage last week, Turley described the alleged hacking as a potentially serious criminal matter and said any evidence should be submitted for independent investigation. She later wrote directly to the Metropolitan Police and the NCSC, stating that if Reform UK had not reported the allegations, her correspondence should be treated as a formal report of what appeared, based on media accounts, to be a serious crime. Turley stressed that Labour was not taking a position on whether the alleged compromise had actually occurred, but argued that the claims warranted examination by the authorities. An NCSC spokesperson said the agency was ready to assist with any suspected cyber incident reported to it. Gift Investigation ContinuesThe hacking allegations come amid continuing scrutiny of the £5 million gift made to Farage by Harborne in April 2024, shortly before Farage announced his candidacy in that year's general election. The payment was not included in Farage's declaration of interests and only became publicly known after it was reported by the Guardian. The Parliamentary Commissioner for Standards is investigating whether parliamentary rules were breached. Farage has maintained that the payment was a private, non-political gift and therefore did not need to be declared. He has said Reform UK examined the rules carefully and concluded there was no requirement to register the payment. Harborne has said he did not expect anything in return and described the gift as motivated by his admiration for Farage's role in achieving Brexit. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 30 May 2026Fri, 29 May 2026 20:56:49 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/myanmar-reopens-myawaddy-mae-sot-border-r2077/Thailand’s border trade with Myanmar resumed on 28 May 2026 after Myanmar authorities unexpectedly coordinated the reopening of the Myawaddy-Mae Sot trade checkpoint following more than 10 months of closure. Get today's headlines by email Tak customs chief Yodphon Witchayakul said Myanmar customs officials in Myawaddy contacted Mae Sot customs officers at 2am to arrange the reopening of the second Thai-Myanmar Friendship Bridge crossing at Ban Wang Takhian Tai in Tha Sai Luat subdistrict, Mae Sot district, Tak province. The crossing officially reopened on 28 May 2026, allowing Thai goods trucks to begin moving across the Moei River once again. The reopening immediately brought renewed activity to the border area, with freight vehicles seen travelling through the checkpoint. The bridge had been closed since August 2025, severely affecting cross-border trade between Thailand and Myanmar. According to Mr Yodphon, the prolonged closure caused border trade values to fall by more than 50%. Mr Yodphon said he met Myanmar customs officials in Myawaddy on 28 May to discuss operational details. He noted that the checkpoint may not initially reopen at full capacity but expressed confidence that the move would help improve the border economy. Thai exporters welcomed the reopening, saying it would improve economic activity and reduce transport costs for shipments travelling deeper into Myanmar. The Mae Sot-Myawaddy crossing is one of the most important trade routes between Thailand and Myanmar, particularly for goods transported by road. Businesses on both sides of the border have faced major disruptions during the closure period. Manager Online reported that authorities are expected to continue discussions on operational procedures and the phased expansion of border activities in the coming weeks as trade volumes gradually recover. Picture courtesy of Manager Online Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now MGRonline 30 May 2026Fri, 29 May 2026 20:56:25 +0000https://aseannow.com/worldnews/nato-condemns-russian-drone-strike-on-romanian-flats-r1077/A Russian drone struck a residential apartment block in eastern Romania on Friday, injuring two people and prompting strong condemnation from NATO and European Union leaders after what Romanian officials described as the most serious wartime incident to affect the country since Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Get today's headlines by email The drone hit a high-rise building in the city of Galați, close to Romania’s border with Ukraine, causing a fire and forcing the evacuation of around 70 residents. Romanian emergency authorities said the drone’s full explosive payload detonated upon impact, igniting a blaze on the building’s 10th floor. Residents Injured as Building EvacuatedTwo people suffered minor injuries and were taken to hospital for treatment. Firefighters later brought the blaze under control. Romania’s Defence Ministry said two F-16 fighter jets were scrambled after drones were detected approaching the area. Brigadier General Gheorghe Maxim said military personnel had only four minutes between detecting the drone and its impact. Officials identified the aircraft as a Geran-2 drone, known internationally as the Shahed-136. According to the ministry, the drone’s entire explosive load exploded when it struck the building. Romania Points to Deflected Flight PathPresident Nicușor Dan said the drone likely altered course after being hit by Ukrainian air defences over Ukrainian territory. Speaking during a visit to Galați, Dan said one drone from a group of 43 incoming aircraft appeared to have been struck above the Ukrainian city of Reni, changing its trajectory before it crossed into Romania. Romanian military officials stressed that their forces face operational restrictions because they cannot fire weapons into Ukrainian airspace. Authorities also sought to reassure residents that Romania had not been deliberately targeted, describing the incident as a consequence of fighting taking place close to the border. NATO and EU Express SupportDan convened an emergency meeting of Romania’s Supreme Defence Council and announced plans to expel Russia’s consul in Constanța and close the consulate. Moscow later indicated it would respond. Romania’s Foreign Ministry said it had requested faster delivery of anti-drone capabilities from NATO. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte said the alliance stood ready to defend all allied territory and would continue strengthening its defences against drone threats. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen described the incident as another escalation resulting from Russia’s war against Ukraine. Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha said the strike demonstrated that Russian aggression remained a threat to the wider Black Sea region and called for increased support for Ukraine. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky later said he had spoken with Dan and pledged continued cooperation to protect against Russian threats. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer called the incident a serious violation of NATO airspace and reaffirmed Britain's support for Romania, Ukraine and other alliance members. Putin Questions Drone's OriginSpeaking later on Friday, Russian President Vladimir Putin said he had only recently learned of the incident and suggested the drone wreckage be handed to Russia for an independent investigation. He also noted previous incidents involving Ukrainian drones entering EU countries. Romania has experienced numerous drone incursions since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. The Defence Ministry says drone fragments have been discovered on Romanian territory 47 times during the war, including 12 occasions this year. The border region around Galați, opposite the Ukrainian ports of Reni and Izmail on the Danube River, remains particularly vulnerable during Russian attacks on Ukrainian infrastructure. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 30 May 2026Fri, 29 May 2026 20:48:43 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/first-lao-man-rescued-from-flooded-gold-mine-r2076/A Lao worker trapped inside a gold mine cave in Laos has been rescued after a major international operation involving Thai and Finnish cave diving experts. Rescue teams successfully brought one of five survivors out of the flooded tunnel at 20.40 on 29 May 2026, according to the Thailand Rescue Diver Facebook page. Get today's headlines by email The worker was among seven Lao labourers trapped inside a gold mine cave in Long Chaeng, Xaysomboun province, Laos, since 19 May. Heavy rain and flash flooding had swept through the mine, cutting off access and leaving the workers stranded underground. Thai and Finnish cave diving and rescue specialists travelled to the area on 20 May to assist with the operation. On 27 May 2026, rescuers finally reached the trapped workers, who were reported to be suffering from exhaustion after spending days inside the cave system. Following contact with the survivors, rescue teams began planning a complex extraction from the flooded mine tunnels. The latest operation successfully removed the first survivor from the cave, while four others remain underground awaiting further assessment before evacuation attempts continue. Picture courtesy of Komchadluek “Kaengkaj Bongkaowong”, head of the Metta Tham rescue team from Thailand, confirmed the rescued worker was brought out safely. He added that teams would continue assessing conditions before attempting to evacuate the remaining four survivors. Rescuers are also continuing efforts to locate two additional workers still missing inside the cave complex. Search operations for the missing pair are expected to resume on 30 May. The rescue operation has drawn attention due to the difficult conditions inside the flooded mine and the involvement of experienced international cave rescue specialists. The operation follows days of challenging underwater access and hazardous conditions caused by persistent flooding. Komchadluek reported officials have not yet released further details on the rescued worker’s medical condition. Authorities are expected to provide additional updates as rescue teams continue evacuation and search efforts in the coming days. AQOpjYNuKUgMVWbyNK4fTeVKfAkfAgfmbtSz6U2bdOVwKEtQ4tkguwsgRmZhIqQiDLpesK8VhimY-R6QTr7WJdDDkBvt4kfCRiA5jIpWYw.mp4 Related story Thai-divers-find-five-in-collapsed-Laos-gold-mine Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Komchadluek 30 May 2026Fri, 29 May 2026 20:46:32 +0000https://aseannow.com/worldnews/poison-seller-admits-aiding-suicides-worldwide-r1076/A Canadian man has pleaded guilty to assisting the suicides of 14 people after admitting he sold and distributed lethal chemicals and detailed instructions to individuals around the world. Get today's headlines by email Kenneth Law, 60, entered guilty pleas to 14 counts of counselling or aiding suicide during a court appearance in Newmarket, Ontario, on Friday. In exchange, prosecutors agreed to withdraw 14 first-degree murder charges. Sentencing is scheduled for September. Law confirmed he understood the charges and was voluntarily entering the pleas before Justice Michelle Fuerst. Family members filled the courtroom as prosecutors outlined the cases involving victims aged between 16 and 36 in Ontario. Deaths Across Multiple CountriesLaw admitted responsibility for aiding the deaths of 14 people in Ontario and acknowledged supplying substances linked to the deaths of 79 people in the United Kingdom. The case has drawn international attention because of the scale of the operation. Investigators said Law shipped 1,209 packages to customers in 41 countries before authorities shut down his websites. The court heard that kits were sent to people in 40 countries and territories, with many recipients located in the UK and the United States. A former engineer and hotel cook, Law operated several websites selling lethal chemicals. Prosecutors said he disguised the business by also offering products such as hot sauce, creating the appearance of a food-preparation wholesaler. The silver packets carried warnings stating that users were solely responsible for how the products were used. Authorities said he also sold suicide-related items and provided detailed instructions on their use. Disturbing Details Presented in CourtProsecutors submitted a statement of facts exceeding 60 pages, detailing numerous deaths linked to Law's products. Several victims attempted to seek help after ingesting the substances. In one case, a young man alerted his parents after taking the poison and pleaded for assistance. In another, a 29-year-old man called emergency services himself, saying he had consumed a toxic substance and feared he was about to die. He later lost consciousness and died in hospital. The court also heard of a UK victim who contacted emergency services after taking a lethal substance, expressing regret and panic. Paramedics arrived within 30 minutes but were unable to save him. Packages from Law's companies were frequently discovered near victims. At the time of his arrest, authorities found that nearly C$297,000 had passed through Shopify and PayPal accounts linked to his businesses. Families Criticise Plea AgreementOutside court, relatives of victims expressed anger over the deal that removed the murder charges. Leonardo Bedoya, whose 18-year-old daughter Jeshennia died after obtaining one of the substances, described the agreement as a disgrace and said Law had profited from deaths around the world. Kim Prosser, whose 19-year-old son Ashtyn died in March 2023, said the case had left families enduring years of grief marked by missed birthdays and milestones. Families in the UK have also renewed calls for a public inquiry. A National Crime Agency investigation found that 286 people in Britain received packages from Law, with 112 deaths linked to recipients. Under an agreement announced on Friday, Law's involvement in those UK deaths will be taken into account during sentencing. Campaigners argue that online forums promoting suicide remain accessible despite repeated warnings from coroners and families. Legal Challenges and SentencingThe case was initially expected to become one of the largest murder prosecutions in Ontario's history. However, legal uncertainty emerged after an Ontario appeal court ruling suggested that merely supplying a substance used in a suicide might not be sufficient to secure a murder conviction. Although Canada's Supreme Court later questioned such a strict distinction, prosecutors ultimately reduced the charges to counselling or aiding suicide. Under Canadian law, the offence carries a maximum sentence of 14 years in prison. Legal experts believe the scale and international reach of Law's activities could result in a severe sentence. Victim impact statements and sentencing hearings are expected in September. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 30 May 2026Fri, 29 May 2026 20:35:48 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/thailand-visa-cut-sparks-tourism-debate-r2075/Thailand’s decision to reduce visa-free stays from 60 days back to 30 days has triggered debate over whether the move will improve security or damage the country’s tourism competitiveness. The government said the change was aimed at strengthening national security, tackling transnational crime and preventing foreigners from working illegally, operating businesses without permits and engaging in criminal activity while posing as tourists. Get today's headlines by email Authorities cited reports of foreign nationals and criminal syndicates using tourist visas to carry out illegal work, drug-related activity and unlawful business operations. Critics argued that better immigration screening and stronger law enforcement would be more effective than shortening visa-free stays for visitors from 93 eligible nationalities. The policy change comes as Thailand faces growing competition in the global tourism market and seeks to boost visitor numbers amid economic uncertainty and sluggish GDP growth. Critics also pointed to previous government decisions, including temporary border trade closures with Cambodia during disputes last year, which affected economic activity on both sides of the border. The government referred to a study showing that most tourists stay just over nine days on average. However, critics questioned why authorities reduced the limit instead of keeping the longer stay option to encourage more spending and longer visits by tourists. Khaosod argued that there is currently no hard evidence proving longer stays lead to more crime. They also warned against stereotyping foreigners, noting that media coverage of crimes involving tourists and expatriates can create negative perceptions despite such cases representing only a small fraction of the more than 30 million foreign visitors Thailand receives annually. The article also highlighted the role of Thai accomplices in some illegal operations, including the use of Thai nominees in unlawful business structures. It compared negative assumptions about foreign visitors with how Thais would object to broad stereotypes linking all Thai nationals to illegal labour migration in South Korea. The Embassy of Israel in Bangkok was cited as an example of a diplomatic mission reminding its citizens to respect Thai laws following incidents involving Israeli nationals in Phuket earlier this month. The embassy advised citizens: “Please, for your own good, be sure to act according to the procedures and the laws of the place.” According to the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, Thailand welcomed more than 13.4 million foreign tourists between 1 January and 24 May this year, generating nearly 654 billion baht in tourism revenue. The largest number of arrivals came from China with 2.24 million visitors, followed by Malaysia, India, Russia and South Korea. Officials from the police and Ministry of Tourism are expected to review crime and tourism figures over the next three to six months to assess whether the shorter visa-free period achieves its intended objectives. Critics said the government should reinstate the 60-day scheme if evidence fails to show a meaningful reduction in crime. Picture courtesy of Khaosod Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Khaosod 30 May 2026Fri, 29 May 2026 20:34:50 +0000https://aseannow.com/worldnews/pam-bondi-defends-handling-of-epstein-files-release-r1075/Former US Attorney General Pam Bondi has defended her handling of the release of records linked to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein during testimony before a congressional committee in Washington. Get today's headlines by email Bondi, who was removed from her role by US President Donald Trump in April, appeared behind closed doors before the US House Oversight Committee on Friday as lawmakers investigated whether the Justice Department properly complied with the Epstein Files Transparency Act. In opening remarks, Bondi said the department had shown “an unprecedented commitment to transparency” by reviewing and producing nearly three million pages of material related to Epstein. She maintained that, to the best of her knowledge, the department released all records required under the law. Questions Over File ReleasesThe Epstein Files Transparency Act, signed into law by Trump, required the Justice Department to release unclassified records connected to Epstein. Bondi oversaw the process while serving as attorney general. However, the release of the documents drew criticism from both Republicans and Democrats. Critics accused the department of withholding material and failing to adequately protect victims’ identities in some files that became public. Committee chairman James Comer said lawmakers were investigating possible mismanagement of the release process and whether additional records could legally be disclosed. Speaking before the hearing, Comer said previous administrations had failed Epstein’s victims and stressed that the committee wanted full transparency. “We’re going to try to determine whether or not there could be more documents legally turned over,” Comer told reporters. Democrats on the committee later accused Bondi of avoiding key questions during the interview. Representative Robert Garcia said Bondi refused to answer questions related to Trump, while Representative Melanie Stansbury alleged Justice Department lawyers intervened to limit her testimony. Stansbury described the proceedings as a “cover-up” and claimed officials were preventing Bondi from discussing conversations with Trump. Bondi denied accusations that she attempted to shift responsibility for the handling of the files to former deputy attorney general Todd Blanche, who is now serving as acting attorney general. In a post online, she praised Blanche’s handling of the matter and described his ethics as “beyond reproach”. Victims and Political FalloutEpstein survivor Maria Farmer also criticised Bondi’s testimony, accusing her of ignoring survivors’ concerns and refusing to accept responsibility for mistakes made during the document release process. The Trump administration has faced sustained bipartisan pressure over the handling of Epstein-related records, including criticism over failures to redact victims’ names. Epstein died in prison in 2019 while awaiting trial on sex-trafficking charges. Bondi also faced renewed scrutiny over comments she made during a 2025 interview with Fox News in which she said a list of Epstein’s high-profile clients was “sitting on my desk right now”. The Justice Department later clarified that she had been referring to the overall case file, not a separate client list. During her time as attorney general, Bondi was also criticised by Democrats who accused her of using the Justice Department to pursue Trump’s political opponents. Health and Future RoleEarlier this week, Bondi revealed she had been diagnosed with thyroid cancer and was undergoing treatment, including surgery performed several weeks ago. She disclosed the diagnosis during an interview with CBS News. Bondi is expected to join the White House’s Presidential Council of Advisors on Science and Technology, a newly formed advisory body focused on artificial intelligence. The congressional committee investigating the Epstein files has already interviewed several high-profile figures, including former President Bill Clinton, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, and convicted Epstein associate Ghislaine Maxwell. Committee chairman Comer said philanthropist Bill Gates is expected to testify in the coming weeks. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 30 May 2026Fri, 29 May 2026 20:26:19 +0000https://aseannow.com/worldnews/trump-weighs-final-approval-on-iran-ceasefire-deal-r1074/US President Donald Trump said he had convened a meeting in the White House Situation Room to make a “final determination” on a proposed agreement aimed at extending a ceasefire with Iran and restarting negotiations over Tehran’s nuclear programme. Get today's headlines by email In a post on Truth Social on Friday, Trump said Iran would have to agree never to obtain a nuclear weapon and ensure the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz to “unrestricted shipping traffic” in both directions. He also demanded that any mines placed in the strategic waterway be destroyed. The meeting came after US officials said Washington and Tehran had agreed to a framework for a memorandum of understanding, pending approval from Trump and Iran’s leadership. Under the reported proposal, the current ceasefire would be extended for 60 days while negotiations continue over the future of Iran’s nuclear activities. Strait of Hormuz at centre of talksTrump also said he was prepared to lift the US blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, adding that ships trapped in the area could begin “heading home”. He further insisted that Iran allow the US to remove and destroy its stockpile of enriched uranium, a longstanding demand from Washington. “No money will be exchanged, until further notice,” Trump wrote. “Other items, of far less importance, have been agreed to.” A White House official later confirmed to the BBC that the Situation Room meeting had ended, but declined to provide further details. The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical global shipping route for oil exports, and tensions in the area have contributed to sharp increases in energy prices since fighting escalated earlier this year. Iran rejects nuclear negotiations claimIranian officials appeared to push back against parts of Trump’s account. Iran’s Fars news agency, citing informed sources, described Trump’s comments as a “mixture of truth and lies” and said the reported memorandum contained no provision for destroying nuclear materials. Meanwhile, foreign ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei told Iranian state television that Tehran remained focused on ending the conflict and was not negotiating over its nuclear programme. Iran has consistently maintained that its nuclear activities are for peaceful purposes and denies seeking nuclear weapons. The US has long demanded that Iran halt the production of highly enriched uranium and dispose of existing stockpiles that could potentially be used in weapons development. Ceasefire remains fragileDespite repeated statements from Trump since the ceasefire began on 8 April suggesting progress towards a deal, no final agreement has yet been reached. US Vice-President JD Vance said on Thursday that negotiators were still discussing “a couple of language points”, including issues surrounding uranium enrichment. “We’re not there yet, but we’re very close,” Vance said. Iran’s chief negotiator Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf said Tehran did not trust promises alone. “No action will be taken before the other side acts,” he wrote on social media. “The winner of any agreement is the one who is better prepared for war the day after.” The current conflict began after US and Israeli strikes on Iran on 28 February. Iran responded with attacks on Israel and Gulf states allied with Washington, and effectively shut down the Strait of Hormuz. Both sides have since accused each other of violating the ceasefire. On Thursday, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps said it had targeted a US air base in Kuwait that it claimed was linked to earlier strikes on Bandar Abbas, a key Iranian port city near the strait. US Central Command described the attack as an “egregious ceasefire violation”. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 30 May 2026Fri, 29 May 2026 20:16:43 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/foreign-nationals-clash-with-thais-at-bali-hai-pier-r2074/A fight involving Thai and foreign nationals near Bali Hai Pier in South Pattaya early on May 29 ended with a young Thai woman trapped beneath a reversing car and suffering serious injuries. The incident took place at around 5am near the popular pier area. Video footage later shared on Facebook showed chaotic scenes as men chased and punched each other while several women were seen pulling hair and fighting nearby. Get today's headlines by email The altercation was witnessed by 23-year-old Warayut, who described seeing a foreign man wield a rock while others attempted to intervene. As conflicting parties scattered, Warayut noticed a black car backing over Pimpimol, trapping her beneath. He and bystanders lifted the car, freeing the injured woman who was then transported by her boyfriend to Bangkok Pattaya Hospital for a fractured hip. A 23-year-old witness, Warayut, said he came across the disturbance while returning home from squid fishing. According to him, tensions escalated when a foreign man appeared ready to throw a rock, although it was unclear who the intended target was. Warayut said a smaller man, whom he believed to be Thai, tried to take the rock away before the situation spiralled further out of control. As the crowd scattered in different directions, Warayut said he then saw a black car reversing into a woman later identified as 20-year-old Pimpimol, leaving her trapped underneath the vehicle. Warayut and another man initially tried to lift the car themselves but were unable to move it. Other people nearby later joined in and helped raise the vehicle enough for the injured woman to be pulled free. Pimpimol was taken to Bangkok Pattaya Hospital by the driver, described as her foreign boyfriend. Early reports indicated she suffered a fractured hip in the incident. CCTV footage reviewed near the scene showed the black sedan driving against traffic with its headlights off at about 4.57am while heading towards a bridge close to Bali Hai Pier. The car later stopped beside a black SUV, where a brief interaction appeared to occur, before moving again and making a U-turn. Footage showed the sedan parking in the middle of the road for nearly a minute before driving behind the SUV parked at the roadside. According to Thairath, people inside the sedan got out at about 4.59am and became involved in the confrontation. The CCTV footage showed foreign men exchanging punches while three or four women were also involved in fights nearby. The report did not identify the women’s nationalities. Moments later, the footage showed the sedan reversing over Pimpimol, trapping her underneath the vehicle. Officers from Pattaya City Police Station inspected the area and collected evidence from the scene. Police said no complaints had been filed and neither side had requested legal action following the incident. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now · Thairath· 29 May 2026Fri, 29 May 2026 10:41:29 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/japanese-coast-guard-arrests-illegal-thai-workers-for-lobster-poaching-r2073/Four Thai technician trainees have been arrested by Japanese Coast Guard officers in Choshi City, Chiba Prefecture, for the illegal poaching of spiny lobsters. This incident has sparked extensive online discussion especially among the Thai community in Japan, with many users criticizing the trainees for ignoring location warnings, potentially harming the reputation of Thai workers in the country. Get today's headlines by email Authorities had been surveilling the area following reports of illegal nighttime fishing activities. The arrests occurred at a pier, where officers found the suspects engaged in poaching with fishing gear. The suspects attempted to flee when approached but were quickly caught, with nine spiny lobsters weighing a total of 1.6 kilograms discovered in their possession. Some Japanese social media users have called for the deportation of the trainees, bringing attention to Japan's trainee programs and their possible link to crime. The accused initially denied the poaching allegations, claiming that the lobsters were for personal consumption. However, some reportedly discarded their evidence into the water during pursuit. Legal proceedings are ongoing, with potential prosecution leading to deportation on the table. The offense carries a hefty maximum fine of 1 million yen. The spot has been notorious for similar poaching incidents, with past arrests revealing sales intent due to the high market value of spiny lobsters. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now · The Thaiger · 29 May 2026Fri, 29 May 2026 10:34:50 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/koh-samui-authorities-tackle-illegal-taxi-rings-r2072/Authorities in Koh Samui, Surat Thani, launched a crackdown on May 28 aimed at dismantling taxi groups accused of monopolizing public areas and obstructing legal taxi operations. Led by district chief Amorn Chumchuay, the initiative involves police, tourist police, and transport officials focusing on vehicles violating local transport laws. This effort is part of a comprehensive campaign to ensure fair public transport practices on the island. Get today's headlines by email For years, certain taxi queue groups have allegedly dominated public spaces, effectively preventing licensed taxis from operating freely. Amorn emphasized that such activities could severely harm Koh Samui’s reputation as a tourist destination. As tourism is a crucial economic driver for the island, addressing this issue is deemed essential for long-term prosperity. The crackdown requires that all public transport operators strictly adhere to regulations. Drivers must consistently use meters, dress appropriately, and only pick up or drop off passengers at designated safe locations. Those who fail to comply, or pose threats to others, face legal consequences including the possible suspension of licenses and revocation of vehicle registrations under the Land Transport Act. Going forward, authorities plan to maintain vigilant monitoring to prevent the resurgence of these illegal practices. Continued enforcement is expected to level the playing field for all legally registered public transport vehicles, ensuring equitable access and operation throughout Koh Samui. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now · The Thaiger · 29 May 2026Fri, 29 May 2026 09:57:37 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/suphan-buri-karaoke-worker-alleges-forced-drug-intake-r2071/A karaoke bar worker in Suphan Buri, Thailand, has lodged a police complaint against a customer who allegedly forced her to ingest drugs, resulting in her hospitalization. The 20-year-old woman, recovering in a hospital, revealed through Channel 7 that legal action was imperative after the life-threatening incident. Get today's headlines by email The customer, identified as 33-year-old Noom, allegedly pressured her multiple times while at the karaoke bar. Initially accepting offers of 300 and 500 baht, she managed to expel the substance during early incidents. However, during a third encounter, Noom reportedly compelled her to swallow it, leading to severe health issues including rapid breathing and muscle weakness. The intervention of a colleague and the bar owner ultimately got her to the hospital. Medical assessments indicated potential heart attack risks, prompting her to seek 30,000 baht in compensation. However, after negotiations, Noom transferred only 5,500 baht. Noom later admitted to police he gave her a "snack," with tests of the substance ongoing to determine its composition. Although Noom tested negative for drugs, further examination continues. This incident mirrors past cases, including one in February involving a Chinese national accused of forcing a Thai party entertainer to consume drugs, resulting in her death. Another case in 2019 saw a man giving a spiked drink to an entertainer, who later died. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now · The Thaiger · 29 May 2026Fri, 29 May 2026 09:52:55 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/chicken-farms-spur-fly-infestation-in-chai-nat-r2070/Over 200 households along the border of Chai Nat and Nakhon Sawan provinces are contending with a significant fly infestation, reportedly linked to chicken farms. On May 29, residents expressed concerns about living conditions, stating they now eat meals under mosquito nets to avoid flies and fear potential disease outbreaks. Get today's headlines by email This issue originated from four broiler chicken farm operators running 17 closed-system barns, each holding at least 30,000 chickens. The situation is exacerbated by ongoing construction of 17 additional barns. Residents are urging relevant agencies to investigate and halt further construction, fearing unresolved sanitation issues despite prior complaints. Locals like Rattana, 62, highlight short-term solutions like flypaper are insufficient. The infestation also affects livestock, raising alarms about disease risks. Nithinan, 40, emphasizes the community's deteriorating quality of life, as the fly problem invades homes and disrupts daily activities. Though complaints to the Damrongtham Centre prompted an inspection, officials reportedly found no flies, leaving residents frustrated. Despite interventions such as meetings with officials and chemical sprays, locals like Boonyuen, 65, report persistent issues with manure smell and noise. They now seek decisive action, urging authorities to inspect the farms thoroughly and enforce regulations if violations are found. The community hopes for restored living conditions soon. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now · The Thaiger · 29 May 2026Fri, 29 May 2026 09:48:45 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/phetchabun-boy-left-at-bus-terminal-rescued-by-locals-r2069/A 10-year-old boy was discovered alone at the Phetchabun bus terminal after his mother allegedly left him there, having only enough money for two bus tickets. The family intended to travel from Phetchabun to Chon Buri. Local resident Natchakitnan “Beer” Yodsawai shared the boy's plight on Facebook, bringing the situation to public attention. Get today's headlines by email The family had been staying with the boy's stepfather in Phetchabun. After an argument between the boy’s mother and stepfather, it was decided to return to Chon Buri. The mother purchased tickets for herself and her younger son, instructing the older child to return to the stepfather’s house. Instead, he stayed at the terminal, surviving on a packet of snacks until locals intervened. Beer purchased a ticket for the boy to travel to Bangkok’s Mo Chit Terminal. A coach driver then bought him a ticket to Chon Buri, but miscommunication led to the boy missing the bus. This prompted the Chon Buri governor to arrange safe transport for the boy to his family’s home. Meanwhile, Beer visited the stepfather’s house and took the boy's younger brother to a children and family shelter for temporary care. Neither the mother nor the stepfather has commented on the situation. Authorities may consider next steps for reuniting the family and ensuring the children’s welfare. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now · The Thaiger · 29 May 2026Fri, 29 May 2026 09:43:41 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/thaksin-reports-to-probation-officer-in-bangkok-r2068/Thaksin Shinawatra made his first public appearance to meet his probation officer at Bangkok Probation Office 1 in Bangkok Noi on May 28, following his release on parole. Greeted by Red Shirt supporters, the brief 10-minute visit marks the beginning of a four-month probationary term ending on September 9. Thaksin, sporting an ankle monitor, appeared in good spirits and engaged briefly with supporters, underscoring the conditions of his parole after serving eight months of a one-year sentence. Get today's headlines by email His return to public life follows a controversial imprisonment at Klong Prem prison, prompted by a Supreme Court ruling related to past misconduct during his tenure as prime minister. Despite legal maneuvers delaying his incarceration, including a six-month hospital stay, Thaksin now faces monthly probation meetings scheduled for June 27, July 29, and August 31, with the possibility of postponements. The fleeting encounter with his supporters reflects ongoing public interest and the political weight Thaksin still carries in Thailand. His parole stipulates strict compliance, overseen by authorities like Mr. Sithi Suthiwong, raising questions about political implications ahead. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now · Thai Newsroom · 29 May 2026Fri, 29 May 2026 09:39:58 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/thailand-extends-alcohol-sales-hours-nationwide-r2067/Thailand’s Alcoholic Beverage Control Committee announced revised hours for alcohol sales beginning in 2026, as detailed in the Royal Gazette. Starting the day after publication, alcohol can be sold from 11am to midnight, with specific exceptions for airports, entertainment venues, hotels, and designated event areas. These changes aim to modernize Thailand's alcohol control policies while promoting tourism and retail activity. Get today's headlines by email The revision comes after a prior 180-day trial that lifted long-standing afternoon bans, reflecting efforts to adapt regulations to current conditions. Authorities introduced these changes to encourage economic growth, although concerns persist over potential implications like increased drink-driving and youth access to alcohol. The government has balanced this flexibility by imposing stricter rules in sensitive areas, such as transport hubs and government properties. Expert reactions are mixed. Some welcome the increased economic opportunities, while others worry about the possible public health impact. Special measures are required from sellers during exempted hours to ensure public order and safeguard minors from alcohol access. Moving forward, authorities will monitor the impact of these regulatory changes, adjusting approaches as necessary to address any emerging issues. Additional guidance or amendments may be published to refine the balance between economic benefits and public health concerns. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now · The Nation · 29 May 2026Fri, 29 May 2026 09:35:51 +0000